Greensboro College

Greensboro College, located at 815 W. Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401, is a great community for students to continue their education and reach their academic goals. The extra support and exceptional educational facilities provides the student with an experience that they just can’t get at some of the larger colleges and universities.

Majors and Minors

When you attend Greensboro College, the education you receive will not only give you a degree, but you will be part of a close-knit community that has been part of the Greensboro scene since 1838. You can dive into learning, both on campus and off, and with great support staff, advisors, and professors, you will have the support you need to fulfill all of your goals and be well prepared to reach your career goals or perhaps go on to earn a graduate degree.

Greensboro College offers degrees to those looking to study the arts, business, humanities, science, math, social sciences and education. With many degrees to choose from, including adult, graduate, and online programs, you are likely to find a degree that will allow you to flourish.

Resident Life

College is not just about the classes that you take and the professors you meet, though these are important. Many college students will choose to live on campus, giving them the full college experience. The mission of Residence Life is to provide all students with a focused living and learning environment that can help them thrive in what otherwise can be an overwhelming and intimidating environment.

Students who live on campus will be able to enjoy traditional college dorm rooms while also connecting and growing with the college community around them. Through on-campus activities, student groups, and residence life, staff and students will have more success in the classroom because of what many consider an intimate college environment.

Student Activities

Students are encouraged to find their “college community” when they come to Greensboro College. This is a big part of the student experience, providing well-rounded activities while the student is enrolled in the school. There are many events and programs available all throughout the year. No matter what your interests are, you will be able to find an activity that will put you among like-minded individuals and can enhance your college life.

The list of different available activities is inclusive, with options like:

  • Sororities and fraternities
  • History Club
  • Fellowship of Christian Athletes
  • Criminal Justice Club
  • The Collegian Newspaper
  • Student Council
  • Student Honors Organization
  • Student Activities Board
  • Entrepreneurship Club

Students can also find smaller groups of individuals with similar goals to join up with or begin their own clubs. Check this out. Each student is encouraged to spend time pursuing their hobbies and learning something new during their time at Greensboro College, making this a truly unique college experience. Student activities are a natural part of the student’s time and provide the student with additional learning experiences that will help them in the classroom as well as with their career choice after college.

Students who are looking for a broad but intimate liberal-arts education that lets them be in control and gives them the tools and support that they need to get ahead, should check out Greensboro College at 815 W. Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401.

Discover more about Greensboro here

What Are the Best HVAC Systems?

Do you need a new HVAC system? Whether your current system is outdated or has completely shut down, you want to replace it with the best HVAC system available. Here’s what to look for in a new HVAC system and some of the best makes and models to consider.

 

What to Look For in an HVAC System

When it comes to choosing a the best HVAC system, the following criteria are the most important:

 

  • Energy efficiency. One of the most important considerations should be the energy efficiency of the system. A high efficiency HVAC system can save you a lot of money each year, in all seasons.
  • Comfort. The ultimate goal of an HVAC system is home comfort. Look for a system that achieves optimal comfort levels.
  • Reliability. Your HVAC system needs to work, without fail, whenever you need it. Find a system that you can count on to keep your home comfortable in any weather.
  • Life expectancy. If you want to get the most years out of your HVAC system, you need to choose one that has a long life expectancy.
  • Sound. Choose an HVAC system that operates quietly to minimize the intrusion to your daily life.

 

Types of HVAC Systems

These four types of HVAC systems are currently the most widely used in homes:

 

  • Furnace and AC combination. This is the standard forced air heating and cooling system. The furnace is typically fueled by natural gas or propane and the AC is electric.
  • Heat pump. A standard heat pump transfers heat either inside or outside depending on the desired indoor temperature using electricity. Heat pumps are highly efficient, but don’t work well if temperatures fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Heat pump and furnace combination. This type of heat pump includes a backup furnace that kicks in if the temperatures fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Mini split system. These HVAC systems consist of units in each room that operate without ducts. The biggest advantage is zone heating and cooling, allowing different areas of the house to be at different temperatures. Mini split systems are electric, but recent models have improved efficiency.

 

Top Manufacturers and Models

 

  • Lennox. Both energy efficient and quiet, Lennox HVAC systems have been providing home comfort since the beginning of home comfort systems. A specific model to consider is the Lennox SL28XCV Air Conditioner.
  • Armstrong Air. Both efficient and quiet, Armstrong Air systems provide comfort at a good value. Models range in efficiency from 14 to 20 SEER.
  • Goodman. When it comes to HVAC replacement cost, Goodman systems are some of the most affordable while still offering durability and efficiency. The Goodman Split Air Conditioner is their top tier model.
  • York. York excels in the commercial sector of HVAC systems as well as residential. Best known for value, the York YXT 19 SEER Two Stage Air Conditioner is a good example.
  • Thermopride. Specializing in gas and oil furnaces, Thermopride also makes high efficiency air conditioners.

 

 

 

Berico Provides Reliable HVAC System Installation 

You can purchase the best HVAC system on the market, but it must be installed properly to achieve the efficiency rating on the label. Berico provides all of the top manufacturers and models and will install your HVAC system correctly for optimal performance.

Call 336-273-8663 today to schedule HVAC installation.

What is a Nest Thermostat and Do You Need One?

You may have heard that having a programmable thermostat can save you money on your heating and cooling costs. One type, the Nest Thermostat, is one of the most popular smart thermostats on the market. This product has a lot of benefits, but it is not the only option available. The Honeywell Pro 8000, for example, offers many of the same benefits with a few differences.

Consider this description of the Nest Thermostat to help you determine whether or not it’s worth it to get one.

How the Nest Works 

The Nest is a programmable, smart thermostat. The terms “programmable” and “smart” are not the same when it comes to thermostats. A programmable thermostat allows you to program it, such as setting specific temperatures for certain times of the day and according to the days of the week and even the monthly calendar. A smart thermostat can be controlled and programmed from a smartphone or other device, meaning you can control it when you are away from home.

The Nest can also be voice controlled through your Amazon Alexa, so you don’t have to get up to adjust the thermostat. It is also called a “learning” thermostat because it picks up on the habits of your household through motion sensors. It essentially learns when your family is home and not home and adjusts the temperature accordingly.

 

Comparing the Nest and the Honeywell Pro 8000 

Both the Nest and the Honeywell Pro 8000 are programmable, smart thermostats, but there are a few differences. The Honeywell Pro 8000 has a touch screen, which is one feature that customers say make it easier to use. Another advantage is the fact that the Honeywell Pro 8000 costs less than the Nest thermostat.

It also gives you more control over the programming. The Nest essentially programs itself, however, if you don’t like the Nest’s interpretation of your preferences, it can be difficult to override it. The Honeywell Pro 8000 takes more time to program, but it allows you to be more in control of your settings.

 

The Nest Gets Negative Reviews

Although the Nest is very popular (it happens to be the top seller of programmable thermostats on Amazon), it still has some negative reviews. The biggest complaints about the Nest are:

 

  • It is difficult to install.
  • It will not let you override the automatic setting. It “learns” and adjusts to your habits, but it won’t let you make changes if you don’t like it’s interpretation.
  • It requires pre existing wiring. If you don’t have the necessary wiring in place, there are additional products to purchase that increase the overall installation cost.
  • It does not produce the monetary savings that it boasts.

 

Which Product to Choose?

While the Nest thermostat has some positive features, Berico recommends the Honeywell Pro 8000 as the best programmable thermostat overall. It allows for more custom programming so you can experience greater home comfort. It also costs less than the Nest, which means you’ll save more money in total.

 

Berico Provides Programmable Thermostat Installation

Installation of programmable thermostats can be tricky. There are specific wires and electrical voltages that are required for proper operation. Berico provides professional installation of your smart thermostat as well as programming assistance to help you get the most energy savings possible.

Call (336) 273-8663 today or request service.

How Often Should You Change Your Air Conditioning Filter?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about HVAC equipment maintenance. A forced air system, better known as central air, requires filters in the intake vents to keep dust and debris out of your system. These filters need to be replaced every so often to allow proper airflow through your HVAC system. How often? Learn the answer to this and other filter related questions.

 

  • How often should you change your AC filters? HVAC experts typically recommend changing your filters every 3 months. This is the appropriate time frame for the average home, but certain factors could make a difference. If you have pets, allergies, or if you live in a dry, dusty area it may be in your best interest to change your filters every 30-45 days.
  • What does MERV rating stand for? HVAC filters are assigned a MERV rating, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The MERV rating indicates how effective a filter is at removing particles from the air. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter and the cleaner your indoor air and HVAC system will be.
  • Are there reusable filters? Changing out disposable filters every 3 months or less makes a lot of trash and the cost can add up. Reusable filters can be washed and used again, which reduces waste and can save you money. Reusable filters cost more up front, but they can be used for multiple years before needing to be replaced. The most important thing to remember about reusable filters is that they must be allowed to dry completely before placing them back in the vents. It may help to have two sets of reusable filters so that you can put one set in while washing the others.
  • What can go wrong if you don’t change your filters often enough? Over time filters can become clogged with dust, pet hair, pollen, and other particles. When filters are clogged your HVAC system can’t draw enough air to operate properly. It may also cause dust and particles to get through the filter and into your ducts and system. You may find yourself calling a technician for AC repair when the problem is only your filters.
  • What are the long-term effects of dirty filters on your HVAC system? If your HVAC filters are clogged with dust and debris for a long period of time without being changed, it can take a toll on your system. The motor on the intake fan will have to work harder and harder to draw in enough air to operate, which will cause it to wear out faster than it should. Some of the particles will get past your filter, allowing your ducts and the mechanical parts of your HVAC system to get dirty and work less efficiently. Ultimately you will find yourself in need of AC repair more frequently and the overall lifespan of your HVAC equipment will be shortened.

 

Berico Provides Filter Replacement with Regular HVAC Maintenance 

Twice yearly maintenance is recommended by HVAC experts to optimize efficiency, prevent the need for repairs, and extend the lifespan of your system. Berico provides an HVAC maintenance plan that includes AC repair in the spring and heating repair in the fall. These appointments include filter replacement, meaning that you will only need to change your filters two other times in the year between your appointments.

 

Call 336-273-8663 today to schedule or request HVAC service.

 

How To Never Run Out of Propane

gas stove litPropane is a versatile energy source. It can be used for home heat, water heaters, cooking, and other household appliances. If your home uses propane in any capacity, you have a tank that exists somewhere on your property. Some tanks are above ground and some are buried. They come in different sizes based on your needs. But the bottom line is that one tank can only hold a finite amount of propane, so you will need refills now and then to keep from running out.

If you’re new to propane use you may be wondering, who delivers propane? A propane home delivery service in your area can provide you with automatic refills so that you never run out.

 

How Do Automatic Refills Work?

A Berico technician can evaluate your home to determine how much propane you will use over time. The number of propane appliances you have, the square footage of your home, the temperatures in the area, and other factors are used to calculate the amount of propane you will need. If you already have a Berico tank in place, refills can begin immediately. If your tank belongs to another propane supplier, Berico will swap it out for free.

 

Berico will schedule your refills according to your predicted usage. You will only pay for the amount you receive and not a full tank if your tank was not empty.

 

How Do I Pay for Automatic Propane Refills?

Propane customers may be used to paying for propane in full at the time of purchase. Some customers even carefully plan and calculate pricing to determine the best time to buy propane to save money. With automatic refills this is not necessary. Berico takes the stress out of purchasing propane by offering a monthly payment system to make the cost of propane more affordable. Berico also offers a pre-buy price protection plan and a fixed price plan that allow you to take advantage of low propane prices.

 

Benefits of Automatic Propane Delivery

When you sign up for automatic propane delivery, you have a lot to gain:

 

  • Peace of mind. You never have to worry about running out of propane on a cold day. Berico has you covered.
  • Save money. Automatic refills will save you money over time, reducing the overall cost of your propane.
  • Easier budgeting. When you combine automatic refills with a monthly payment plan, it’s easier to budget your monthly bills.
  • Additional perks. Combine your automatic propane deliveries with an HVAC maintenance plan, and you’ll get a discount on both as well as discounts on repairs and credits toward new equipment.

 

Berico Provides Propane Home Delivery Service 

If you live in the Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, Reidsville, or Eden area, Berico can provide propane delivery service to your home or business. Berico’s service area is wide and includes a large part of the Piedmont Triad and surrounding areas. Wondering who delivers propane to your area? Call Berico at (336) 273-8663 or fill out the new customer order form.

 

How To Choose a Propane Supplier

Gas flameAre you in need of a residential propane supplier? If you have a propane furnace or if any other appliances in your home use propane, you must have a propane tank somewhere on your property. That tank, whatever the size, can only hold a certain amount of propane before needing to be refilled. Whether you’re a new propane customer or you’re thinking of switching suppliers, you may be wondering what to look for in a propane supplier. Here are the most important things to consider.

Ask for Recommendations for a Propane Delivery Company 

Talk to your neighbors, friends, coworkers, and anyone else you know and ask if they use propane and who their supplier is. Neighbors are an excellent source for this because you will know that their supplier already serves your area. Ask what they like about their supplier and why they continue to be customers.

Check Safety Ratings 

Propane is a fuel, and although it is only flammable at very high temperatures, it must be handled safely. All propane suppliers are issued a safety rating based on a variety of factors regarding safe transport and storage of propane. Any reliable supplier should easily be able to provide you with their current safety rating.

Do They Provide Automatic Refills?

Give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing you will never run out of propane. Find a supplier that offers automatic refills based on the size of your propane tank and your home’s projected usage. When properly calculated, your tank will never be empty.

 

Do They Offer Payment Plans?

Would it help to be able to pay for your propane on a monthly basis rather than in one lump sum? Look for a supplier that offers monthly payment plans so you can budget your bills and expenses more accurately.

 

Can You Pre-Buy or Lock-In Your Propane Price?

Propane prices fluctuate throughout the year and over the long term. If your supplier offers a pre-buy or price lock-in option, you can take advantage of low prices when the market value drops. You can purchase your propane before you need it when the prices are low, or lock-in a low price by committing to a certain amount of propane and paying monthly.

 

How Do They Handle New Customers?

If you currently have a propane tank but you want to switch suppliers, choose a new supplier that will swap out your tanks for free. Switching suppliers can be easy when your new supplier is willing to do the work in order to earn your business.

 

Why Choose Berico as Your Residential Propane Supplier? 

Berico is a reliable residential propane supplier in Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, Reidsville, Eden, and the surrounding areas. When you ask for recommendations, the name Berico will come up again and again. Berico offers pre-buy and price protection plans as well as monthly payments to make propane more affordable. Automatic refills will ensure you never run out of propane when you need it. And when you become a Berico customer, the switch is easy for you with a free tank swap out.

Call Berico today at (336) 273-8663 or fill out the new customer order form.

How Heat Pump HVAC Systems Work

Heat pumps are a popular type of HVAC system. They are known for being energy-efficient and providing effective home comfort. A heat pump is different from a furnace in the way that it operates, yet the cooling portion is basically the same.

You may have heard good things about them, but if you’re thinking about buying a heat pump, you should know how they work before you make your decision.

 

How a Heat Pump Warms Your Home 

A heat pump transfers heat rather than creating heat. A furnace uses some type of fuel (propane, heating oil or natural gas) to create heat that is dispersed throughout your home. But a heat pump collects heat from the outside air (even when it is cold outside), draws it in, and disperses it throughout your home.

 

How does it collect heat when the air outside is cold? The key is pressure. Refrigerant is used to absorb heat from the outside air. As the refrigerant warms up and the pressure increases, it evaporates into gas form. As the heat is blown out through the forced air system to warm your home, the refrigerant is cooled and is ready to absorb more heat to repeat the cycle.

 

How a Heat Pump Cools Your Home 

The cooling cycle of a heat pump is simply the reverse of the heating cycle. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air inside of your home. As the refrigerant warms and pressurizes, it is moved outside of your home where it is cooled down. Then the blower distributes the cool air through your ducts and out through your vents.

 

Heat Pumps Transfer Heat

The essence of a heat pump is that it transfers heat from the outside to the inside when you need to warm your home, and it transfers heat from the inside to the outside when you need to cool your home. This is what makes heat pumps so efficient. They make good use of the heat that is available.

 

Benefits of Heat Pumps

 

  • Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient because they transfer and maximize available heat energy.
  • Heating and cooling in one system. A heat pump uses the same equipment for both the heating and cooling cycles, minimizing parts and footprint.
  • Reduce carbon emissions. Heat pumps use electricity rather than heating fuel, which means they create less carbon emissions than furnaces.
  • Low maintenance. Heat pumps require less maintenance and cleaning than fuel furnaces.
  • Long lasting. A heat pump can last for up to 50 years depending on the quality, installation, and maintenance.

 

Top Brands of Heat Pumps

If you’re thinking about buying a heat pump, there are a few brands that stand out in terms of quality and longevity. A Carrier heat pump is one of the most environmentally friendly HVAC systems on the market. Lennox heat pumps are known for efficiency and affordability when compared to Trane, which is also efficient but tends to be higher in price. So do your research before deciding whether it’s worth it to pay more.  Standard, Lennox, and Rheem are reliable and efficient systems with an excellent track record.

 

Berico Provides Reliable Heat Pump Installation 

To get the most efficient operation from a heat pump, it needs to be installed properly. The experienced technicians at Berico will install your heat pump for optimal energy efficiency and long lasting performance.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 or schedule service today.

Is My Furnace Getting Ready to Break Down?

The last thing you want to experience is a broken furnace on a cold winter day or night. Sometimes furnaces break down without warning, but in many cases there are signs that indicate your furnace may not be working properly.

Avoiding an unexpected furnace breakdown is always preferable, so how can you prevent it? According to the best heating and air in Greensboro, here’s what to look for so you can be prepared.

 

Repeated Cycling On and Off

Does it seem as if your heat comes on, turns off, and turns on again without much time in between? Perhaps it doesn’t run very long each time before shutting off, then comes right back on again. This is a sign that something is not working correctly within your furnace. It could be that there are parts in need of cleaning, repair, or replacement. There may be a problem with the blower motor. Any number of mechanical or electrical issues could cause this to happen. If you notice this, it’s time to schedule a service appointment.

 

Uneven Temperatures Throughout Your Home

Do some rooms feel warm and others cool? Uneven heating is another sign that your furnace is not operating properly. It could be failing to produce enough heat to effectively warm your entire home. There could be issues with air flow through the ducts or other problems that could prevent heat from disbursing evenly. Start by checking your filters and replace them if necessary. If the problem persists, contact the best heating and air in Greensboro, Berico.

 

Unusual or Increased Noises

Have you noticed more noise or unusual noises coming from your furnace or vents? You may think it’s just in your head, but it’s probably not. You get used to the way your HVAC system sounds when it runs, and if you’re suddenly noticing it when you didn’t before, the noises are probably new. Excessive or strange noises coming from your furnace could mean any number of mechanical problems from loose parts to electrical issues. Schedule a service appointment to have your system evaluated.

 

High Energy Bills

Your furnace may run on natural gas, propane, heating oil, or electricity. If your gas or energy bill seems to keep going up, it may be a sign that your furnace is not operating properly. A properly working furnace should operate efficiently, depending on its efficiency rating. Regardless, soaring energy bills are not normal and may indicate that your furnace is on its way out.

 

How Will I Know if My Furnace Should be Repaired or Replaced? 

When your HVAC technician inspects your furnace they will diagnose the problem as well as assess the condition of your system.

 

They will most likely recommend repair if:

 

  • Your furnace is less than 10 years old.
  • The repair is easy and inexpensive.
  • The overall condition of your furnace is good.

 

The technician may recommend replacement if:

 

  • Your furnace is more than 10 years old.
  • The repair required is a major, expensive part.
  • The overall condition of your furnace is poor.

 

Want to Avoid a Breakdown? Have Your System Assessed by Berico

If you’re concerned about the performance or condition of your furnace, call 336-273-8663 today to schedule a service appointment. Find out why customers consistently rate Berico as the best heating and air in Greensboro.

What if My Furnace Won’t Run After a Power Outage?

Power outages can happen for any number of reasons from storms to accidents. It can be frustrating, but if you’re lucky your power will be back on before too long. When it does come back on, there’s a possibility your furnace won’t restart automatically. If your home is still cold after a power outage and your furnace isn’t back up and running, don’t panic. This is actually quite common.

You may be tempted to immediately call for furnace repair in Burlington, but wait. There are a few things to try first.

 

Check Your Thermostat

The first step should always be to check your thermostat. Make sure it is on, set to heat, and that the temperature is set to something below the current indoor temperature. Notice if there are any warnings listed on the screen that would indicate that something is wrong with the system. If all seems well, proceed to the next step.

 

Check the Circuit Breakers

Sometimes when the power goes out, it causes a power surge that can trip circuit breakers. Locate your electrical box and notice if any breakers are flipped the opposite way from the others. If your electrical box is labeled, find the breaker that is labeled “furnace” or “HVAC system.” If it is flipped to the off position, flip it back the other way to the on position. This should allow your system to turn on if that was the problem.

 

Check the Pilot Light

If you have an older furnace, it may have a pilot light that stays lit during the cold weather months. Newer furnaces automatically light the pilot light when the thermostat calls for heat. But if yours is the older variety that typically has a permanently lit pilot light, check to see that it is still lit. If not, relight it. If it won’t stay lit, there may be a separate problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.

 

Reboot Your Furnace

If the breaker wasn’t already tripped before, you can restart your furnace by flipping the breaker off, waiting a few minutes, and then flipping it back on. This gives the system an opportunity to reboot itself and start fresh, which will sometimes do the trick.

 

Call Berico for Furnace Repair in Burlington 

If you’ve tried everything and your furnace is still not running, call for furnace repair in Burlington. Berico can inspect your system to determine why it is not restarting. There’s a possibility that something was damaged in your furnace or the electrical system, especially if the power went out due to lightning. If the power is back on for the rest of your home, your furnace should be back up and running as well. Berico provides repair and replacement services for all HVAC systems, including gas, propane, and oil furnaces.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 or schedule furnace service today.

 

Can an HVAC Purchase Be Financed?

HVAC, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment can be expensive. Whether you need a repair or a complete replacement for your heating or cooling system, the cost may be more than you can pay out of pocket. But HVAC financing is a potential option to make the cost more affordable.

 

Your HVAC system is not just a luxury, especially during the winter months. You need a heating system to keep your family warm on cold days and nights. No one should have to go without heat, which is why financing is available to help pay for repairs and new equipment.

 

HVAC Financing Options

There are a few different types of loans that can be used to finance HVAC equipment, including:

 

  • Financing through your HVAC company. Most HVAC companies offer financing through a lender they partner with in the area. This is typically a good option because approval is highly likely and there is often a promotional rate negotiated to encourage the business partner relationship. In many cases you can apply and be approved in minutes for same day service.
  • Credit card. Most types of credit cards can be used to pay for anything, including HVAC equipment. You can use a credit card you already have or apply for a new card to pay for your HVAC repair or replacement. Some credit cards offer a zero rate for a promotional period, but be sure to pay it off before it starts accruing interest, as the rate may be high when the promotion ends.
  • Personal loan. A personal loan can be used for HVAC purchases. It is usually established as a set amount for a specific purpose. You make payments each month until you have paid off the full amount, then the loan is usually closed. It is not a revolving line of credit like a credit card.
  • Home Equity line of credit. A home equity loan allows you to use the equity you have in your home as collateral for a line of credit. The limit can be as high as the total amount of equity you have in your home at the time of the application. Home equity loans are most often used to pay for home improvements, and HVAC system replacement would qualify. However, this type of loan can be risky, because if you fail to make payments you could lose your home.
  • Federal loan programs. There are loan options under FHA (Federal Housing Administration). The PowerSaver loan program allows you to use the equity in your home up to $7,500 to finance energy-saving upgrades without risking your home as collateral. Replacing your HVAC system with a new, energy-efficient system, would qualify in most cases. Just be sure to check the requirements and purchase a system that qualifies.

 

Berico Offers Affordable Options for Financing HVAC Equipment

If you need an expensive repair or a system replacement, you can finance it through Berico. Berico partners with Wells Fargo to offer affordable financing with competitive rates and convenient monthly payments. Your home can be comfortable again in no time with the help of Berico services and financing.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 or apply for financing today.