Gas Log Fireplace Safety Tips

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Do you want the ambience of a fire in your fireplace without the hassle of hauling wood and shoveling ashes? Do you want to avoid the smell of wood smoke in your home? Gas logs are a cleaner, easier alternative to a traditional wood fireplace. But it is important to be just as careful with gas logs as with wood. Gas log fireplaces have a specific set of safety precautions that must be followed to keep your home and family safe. If you currently own or are considering converting to gas logs in Greensboro, NC, be sure to follow these safety tips.

  1. Do not install gas logs yourself. This process should only be performed by a licensed contractor. Gas lines and electrical wires should only be handled by trained technicians who have experience with installation or conversion of gas log fireplaces.
  2. Check county and city building codes. There are restrictions on gas log fireplaces in residential areas. Be sure you and your contractor look into the county and city codes regarding the installation of gas log fireplaces in your area/home before making any changes.
  3. Be sure all necessary detectors are installed. Carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, and oxygen depletion sensors should all be in place to ensure safe operation of your gas logs.
  4. Have your chimney swept. If you are converting from a wood fireplace to a gas log fireplace it is very important to be sure your chimney is clear of all debris and soot.
  5. Schedule routine maintenance for your gas logs in Greensboro, NC. Proper and safe operation of a gas log fireplace depends on yearly maintenance by a professional. This is an important step each year that should be taken care of before your fireplace is used. Maintenance should include a thorough cleaning of the logs, accessories, fan, air circulation passages, vents, and the glass screen. Your carbon monoxide detector should be tested and the batteries replaced.
  6. If you smell gas: make sure all people immediately leave the home. Call 911 from a safe distance.
  7. If you notice unusual smells or a change in the appearance of the flames: call your gas log service provider or another gas log fireplace professional.
  8. Be sure you know how to use your vented or unvented logs. If your gas log fireplace is vented, make sure your chimney flue is locked in the open position. If unvented be sure you limit your use to a few hours at a time to avoid excessive carbon monoxide buildup.

Have your Gas Logs Installed or Serviced by Berico for Safe Operation this Winter

Safety is of utmost importance when it comes to fireplaces of all kinds. Berico wants to make sure you and your family will be safe this winter as you heat your home. If you are thinking of converting from a wood fireplace to gas logs in Greensboro, NC, a licensed Berico technician can perform this installation and recommend the best option for your home. If you already have gas logs, Berico can service them to ensure safe and efficient operation. Call for a free estimate or to schedule service: (336) 273-8663.

Give the Gift of Warmth

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When the weather turns cold each fall or winter, you simply turn on your heating system to battle the cold. If you have a functioning heating system, you probably rarely give a second thought to what it would be like if you didn’t have heat. But that is the reality facing an alarming number of families in the state of North Carolina, some of which reside in Guilford County. According to data collected by local food banks, 75% of NC households have had to choose between heating their homes and buying food. That is the unfortunate reality, but it doesn’t have to continue that way. You can make a contribution to help those less fortunate to heat their homes this winter through The Gift of Warmth, a Salvation Army program. Such financial gifts help local HVAC companies like Berico provide families in need with heating system repair in Greensboro, NC.

Benefits to Donating:

  • Donations are tax deductible. As with any charitable donation, your gift is tax deductible, which may result in a larger tax return check this year.
  • Help families in your own community. Are you more interested in helping your own neighbors than people overseas? If the amount you are able to donate to charities is limited, consider giving back to your own community. You can designate your donation to help families in Guilford, Alamance, or Rockingham and Caswell counties.
  • Keep people from having to choose which of their basic needs to fulfill. Every person deserves to have his or her basic needs fulfilled each day. Sufficient food, clothing, warm housing, and healthcare are things no one should have to do without or choose between. Your gift can help to ensure that no family is forced to decide whether to eat or pay for heating system repair in Greensboro, NC.

How to Give:

Simply visit giftofwarmth.com and enter your credit or debit card information. The site is secure so there is no risk, but you can also donate using your PayPal account. You can make a one-time donation or set up an automatic monthly contribution. You can also donate in person at any BB&T financial center. The total goal is to raise $50,000 to help local families.

Berico is Proud to Participate in The Gift of Warmth Each Year

Providing reliable heating system repair in Greensboro, NC, is a passion of Berico, Carolina Fuels, and Alamance Oil. A warm home is something Berico wishes for every family. When customers come together and donate to a common goal, amazing results are achieved. The village mentality is something that is still alive and well in many people’s hearts, and the Gift of Warmth gives those people an opportunity to exercise that belief. Help Berico to provide local families with much needed heating system repair in Greensboro, NC this winter. Donate to The Gift of Warmth today.

Winterizing Your Home this Fall

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cozy houseColder weather is on the horizon. Is your home ready for winter? Freezing temperatures and snow can take their toll on your house, but you can avoid many household problems that can occur during winter by properly winterizing your home. Follow these steps and keep your eye out for propane specials in Greensboro, NC, that can save you money this year.

  1. Schedule furnace maintenance. The sooner the better on this one. HVAC companies tend to get busy performing furnace tune-ups in this time of year, so make your appointment now. Furnace maintenance ensures your system is in good shape and will run smoothly and efficiently throughout the winter.
  2. Have your propane or heating oil tank refilled. If your household heats with propane or heating oil, fall is a good time to make sure your tank is full. You definitely want to avoid running out on a cold winter night. Fall is a good time to find propane specials in Greensboro, NC, to help you save a little money on your heating fuel.
  3. Seal up cracks or leaks in your home. Insulating your home to keep the warm air in and the cold air out will go a long way in making sure your home stays comfortable, your furnace works efficiently, and you save money. Seal up cracks in the walls or around doors and windows. For best results you can have a professional fully inspect your home for air leaks and improve your insulation before it gets cold.
  4. Check the condition of your roof (or have it checked by a professional). If your roof has any weak spots or missing shingles, just one layer of snow can cause it to leak. Even a heavy frost might be all it takes for moisture to seep in. Your roof may also be letting cold air into your home and causing your furnace to work overtime. With experience, you can inspect and repair your own roof, but your safest bet is to have a professional roofer come out and take a look. They can make their recommendation for repair or replacement.

Berico Helps You Save Money with Propane Specials in Greensboro, NC

Looking for the best price on propane this fall? Hoping to save a little on your heating costs this year? Berico offers some promotional propane specials in Greensboro, NC, for new and existing customers that can make it more affordable to heat your home this fall and winter. New propane customers can enjoy their first 75 gallons of propane for free, as well as a free tank swap out. Sign up for automatic refills and get $20 off your next fill up. Refer a friend to Berico and get credits toward your services. And even without specials, Berico offers competitive prices on propane, heating oil, and other fuels as well as HVAC services like maintenance. Take advantage of these discounts and schedule a fall furnace tune-up and fuel delivery today. Call (336) 273-8663.

Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

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Furnace Repair in EdenAs fall approaches and the weather begins to cool, you should start thinking about home maintenance. With winter coming soon there are some checks that need to be done and possibly some adjustments made to prepare your home for the season ahead. Not sure what to do? Follow this checklist to get your home ready for winter.

  • Furnace inspection and maintenance. It is wise to have your furnace inspected every year to make sure it is in good working order and will run efficiently. You can save money on energy costs with yearly maintenance and avoid unexpected furnace problems in cold weather.
  • Heating system installation Eden, NC. If your furnace is old or is found to be faulty upon inspection, it may be in your best interest to replace it. Your HVAC technician can give you a recommendation on its condition and the best course of action. It is much easier to have your furnace replaced in the fall if replacement is necessary.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. Save money this winter with a programmable thermostat. You can keep your home warmer when you’re home and cooler when you’re not at home to save energy and heating fuel.
  • Roof inspection/repair/replacement. Have a professional roofer check the condition of your roof and do any repairs that may be necessary to keep cold air and moisture from seeping in. If your roof needs to be replaced, it’s best to get it done in the fall before winter weather sets in.
  • Seal up cracks around windows and doors. If you notice cracks, seal them to keep cold air out and warm air in. Not sure how to handle this? Have a professional home insulator come and seal your home.
  • Clean out gutters. Before frost, snow, and ice begin to form, clean out your gutters so that the water has plenty of space to drain properly away from your home.
  • Divert water away from the house. Once your gutters are clean, consider extending your drain pipes further away from your home. This keeps water away from your foundation to prevent sinking or a flooded basement. Also, make sure your yard drains properly away from your home. Add a drainage system if necessary.
  • Turn off exterior faucets and drain hoses. Keep water from freezing in pipes and hoses and causing damage by turning off all faucets and draining all water from hoses and sprinkler systems.

Reliable Heating System Installation in Eden, NC

The most important part of fall home maintenance is preparing your furnace. If your furnace is old, not working correctly, or requires expensive repairs, it may be in your best interest to replace it. Carolina Fuels provides reliable heating system installation in Eden, NC. An experienced technician can evaluate your heating system and determine if a replacement is necessary or recommended. If you are in need of a replacement, Carolina Fuels offers specials and discounts to make it more affordable. Call (336) 623-9741 to schedule a furnace inspection today.

Saving Money on Your Heating Bills This Winter

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fuel deliveryAre you looking for ways to lower your utility costs this winter? When the weather gets cold it is necessary to heat your home in some way. Whether you use propane, natural gas, electricity, heating oil, or another energy source for home heat, there are ways to reduce the cost. From furnace maintenance to propane deals in Burlington, NC, there are plenty of ways to save.

  1. Schedule a furnace tune up. You may have heard that your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system needs regular maintenance. This not only prevents your system from breaking down, but it improves the efficiency of your furnace. An efficient furnace uses less energy, whether that’s electricity, propane, heating oil, or gas. When less energy is used, you pay less on your utility bills.
  2. Improve your insulation. Do you have some rooms that are too cold or perhaps near doors and windows? Does it seem that your furnace is running constantly? You may have cracks or leaks that cold air can get through. Sealing up cracks around windows and doors can really reduce your heating costs. For further cost reduction, consider having a specialist come in and better insulate your home. You may pay the cost up front for this service, but the money you save will make it worth your while.
  3. Switch from electric heat to propane or heating oil. If you’re using electricity to heat your home, you may find that propane or heating oil is much more affordable. Switching is easy and new customers often receive promotional discounts. You can also find propane deals in Burlington, NC, quite easily at certain times of the year. Paying for propane or oil at one time means you avoid rising monthly bills.
  4. Install a new furnace. Is your furnace getting old? If it’s 10 or 15 years old you could definitely save energy by purchasing a new furnace. New heating systems are much more efficient than systems that were made even 7 years ago. A high-efficiency furnace uses significantly less electricity, propane, oil, or gas, which saves you money on home heating bills. The cost of a new furnace can be recouped in just a few years of lower energy bills.

Get Propane Deals in Burlington, NC, through Alamance Oil

If you’re looking to save money this winter, you should already be looking for propane deals in Burlington, NC, this fall. Being prepared early is another great way to save money on heating costs. Alamance Oil offers $20 off a propane delivery when you become an automatic fill customer for the first time. If you’re not an Alamance Oil Customer, switching means your first 75 gallons of propane is free, along with a free tank swap out. Check out other specials and find so many ways to save. Don’t pay too much for home heat this winter. Save through Alamance Oil. Call (336) 226-9371.

Does a Hot Summer Mean a Very Cold Winter?

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furnace maintenance GreensboroThis summer has been a real scorcher. We’ve had temperatures in the upper 90s, not much rain, burned out grass, and even leaves falling from trees prematurely. But does a hot summer mean we’re in for a bitterly cold winter? You could say it’s one of those “old wives’ tales” that a hot summer proceeds a colder winter, but is there any actual science behind the theory? And what does that mean for HVAC companies performing heating repair in Greensboro, NC, in the upcoming season?

Research Does Not Support this Theory

Meteorologists have done extensive studies to test this theory, and have found that summer weather is in no way a predictor of winter weather. A hot summer could be followed up by a milder winter just as readily as a colder winter. Really, the only predictable aspect of weather is its unpredictability. The experts study the trends and attempt to predict the weather as accurately as possible, but as you’ve probably experienced on many occasion, they are not always right.

Be Prepared for Any Weather This Winter with Heating Repair in Greensboro, NC

Since we’ve determined that we can’t predict the weather for the upcoming winter, it’s best to be prepared for anything. Is your furnace ready to handle a cold winter? Do you have enough propane or heating oil to last you through the season? If you’re not sure of your answer to either of those questions, you need to call Berico right away.

Heating repair in Greensboro, NC, is best taken care of before the start of cold weather. Once the first chilly night hits and everyone starts turning their furnaces on, you may be one of many who find out that their furnace was not ready for winter. When that happens, your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) company will be busy responding to all the calls that come in and you may find yourself waiting in the cold for a technician to come out and repair your furnace.

Avoid a Major Mishap: Get your Propane or Oil Tank Refilled Before it Runs Out

The first touch of cold weather is also an unfortunate time to find out your propane or oil tank is empty. Not only will you have to wait for a refill, but you will be stuck paying whatever the current price is for heating fuel. And if your propane tank is completely emptied it is at risk for damage. Leaks can occur during refill and air and moisture can seep into the tank which may cause the inside of the tank to rust. If your oil tank runs dry it can cause damage to your furnace, such as failure to start up again once the oil is replenished.

Berico Can Help You Stay Warm this Winter, Whatever the Future Holds

We may not know if this winter will be frigid or mild, but making sure your heating system is ready well in advance is always best. Find out how you can be prepared for any weather and save money at the same time with a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement from Berico. A furnace tune-up and fuel discount is the winning combination. Call (336) 273-8663.

Why is My Furnace Leaking?

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Picture of a Leaky FurnaceUh oh. There’s water puddled around your furnace. You’re thinking, “This can’t be good.” There are a few possible causes for a leaky furnace from normal wear and tear to faulty installation. Some of the causes can be easily repaired. Others may mean you need a new furnace. Before you worry too much or start Googling new furnace installation in Greensboro, NC, consider the possible reasons for the leak.

Common Causes of Furnace Leaks:

  • Condensation. If the water is from condensation, the first question to ask is whether you have a high-efficiency furnace (90% or higher AFUE—Annual Fuel Efficiency Ratio). The easiest way to tell is that HE furnaces typically have a white PVC pipe for ventilation. High-efficiency furnaces do produce condensation due to their cool exhaust feature. That moisture is typically drained out unless the drainage tube is blocked or leaking. A standard efficiency furnace (with a metal exhaust pipe) would only have condensation if the flue pipe is the wrong size due to faulty installation.
  • Furnace humidifier issues. If the internal furnace humidifier isn’t working properly it can cause condensation to form. Moisture inside your furnace can cause damage, so it’s important that this be repaired as soon as possible.
  • Internal drain clog. Has your air conditioner been running? Does it share a drain system with your furnace? If so, it could be condensation from your air conditioner. An internal drain blockage could cause water from your AC to back up into your furnace.
  • Faulty secondary heat exchanger. This is the big one, the problem that could result in whole furnace replacement. If the water is not due to condensation, it could be coming from the secondary heat exchanger. This is a significant part and it may not be worthwhile or possible to repair it without a furnace replacement in Greensboro, NC.

When to Call your HVAC Service for Repairs

If you see moisture around or under your furnace, the best thing to do is call a professional HVAC service. Whether the water is from condensation that is not properly draining or from a problem with an internal part, the situation should not be ignored. Letting a moisture problem go on too long can cause significant damage to your furnace or to your home. Excessive moisture in your home can lead to mold and mildew growth that can permanently damage your home and aggravate allergy sufferers. Too much moisture in your furnace can do irreparable damage to the system itself, resulting in the need for replacement.

Don’t Wait. Call Berico and Save Yourself from Expensive Repairs or Replacement

At the first sign of a problem, especially when excess water appears where it shouldn’t, it’s best to contact your heating and cooling company. Your expert technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace, locate the problem, and repair it if possible. If replacement is necessary, you won’t find a more reliable company to do your furnace installation in Greensboro, NC. Call Berico at (336) 273-8663.

Best Types of Furnaces for Your Home

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furnace repair BurlingtonAre you in the market for a new furnace? Maybe your old one is starting to fail, or perhaps you are building a new home and need to install a furnace for the first time. Whatever the reason you are considering a furnace installation in Burlington, NC, there are many different types to choose from. Finding the furnace that is best for you depends on a few different factors.

  • Do you have allergies? If dust is an allergy irritant for you, forced air systems with ductwork may exacerbate that issue. Try an air purification systems that can be added to help filter out allergens.
  • Does your home have ductwork? If there is already ductwork in place in your home, installing any type of forced air furnace is much easier and cost effective. Ductwork is necessary for furnaces and heat pumps. If it doesn’t have ductwork and you wish to avoid installing ducts, try a radiant heating option or a ductless mini-split system, though this type of system is rare in this region.
  • How cold does it get where you live? If you experience extremely cold temperatures, avoid a heat pump which does not perform well in those conditions. Consider a boiler or furnace that uses propane or oil. Propane and oil are said to offer a cozier heat that radiates longer.
  • Do you want the lowest possible heating costs? To keep heating costs as low as possible, propane, heating oil, and gas furnaces are very cost effective. Heat pumps are a very energy efficient and cost effective option as they transfer warmth more than they create it using heating fuel. However, when it does get very cold, a heat pump would need to be supplemented with another source of heat.
  • Do you want to save on installation costs? If you want to keep installation costs down, consider a ductless system such as a mini-split HVAC system. These are wall-mounted units that are installed in each room that connect to a very small outdoor unit. Installation is quick and not at all invasive. These systems are very visible and many homeowners opt for other options for aesthetic reasons.
  • Is it necessary to heat each room separately? If you want individualized heat and air conditioning for each room of your home, the ductless mini-split system is the best way to achieve this. Each room can be set to a different desired temperature. Each person can heat their room to their preference and parts of the home that don’t need to be heated can do without a unit. These systems do require more upkeep, such as monthly filter cleaning, so be sure to consult an HVAC professional to ensure you pick the right system for your home and climate.

 

Alamance Oil Offers Reliable, Affordable Furnace Installation in Burlington, NC

Trust your home comfort to Alamance Oil. Proper installation is key to the successful operation of the furnace you are getting now, as well as any future furnace you will have installed. Ductwork, vents, and the system itself must all be configured accurately. Once you choose the right heating system for your home, be sure to have your furnace installation in Burlington, NC, done by Alamance Oil. Call (336) 226-9371 for a free estimate today.

Best Ways to Prepare for a Warm Fall—it’s Coming

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Warm Fall photoMeteorologists are predicting a warmer than usual fall for the east coast this year. You can expect to feel summer-like temperatures through September and into October, with higher than normal temperatures through November as well. What does this mean for household heating and cooling? It’s likely your air conditioner will be running for a greater portion of this year, with your furnace sitting dormant much longer than usual. AC maintenance in Greensboro, NC, will be more important than ever before.

HVAC Maintenance Improves Efficiency which Reduces Energy Usage

Knowing that your air conditioner will be working overtime to beat the heat, you may be dreading your electric bills. During the fall you’re used to getting a short respite from those high energy bills before the cold weather kicks in and it’s the furnace’s turn to do the work. But you can keep your electric bill lower by getting your HVAC system tuned up this fall. Maintenance involves cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, and repairing the working parts of your AC unit to achieve maximum performance. Typically, you would have your air conditioner tuned up in the spring and your furnace done in the fall. But this year, it would be wise to have your AC inspected in the fall as well since it may still have a few extra months to run. This is especially advisable if it has not had any maintenance yet this year. Avoid potentially high energy bills with AC maintenance in Greensboro, NC.

Thinking About AC Replacement? This Could Be the Year

Is your air conditioner showing signs of age? Is it running louder, switching on and off more, and failing to keep your home at your desired temperature? Are your electric bills skyrocketing? If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time for a new air conditioner. New technology has made air conditioners extremely efficient. Up to 18 and 20 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) models are available that use a fraction of the electricity of older machines. If you’ve been wondering if upgrading your system to a more efficient model would be worth the money, this year the benefit would certainly outweigh the cost. Weather trends are likely to continue in the next few years, meaning a long term seasonal shift will take place, making warmer falls the norm. In this case, a new air conditioning unit will pay for itself in energy savings within the first few years.

A Comfort and Protection Service Agreement from Berico Helps You Prepare for a Warmer Fall

Maintenance agreements are the best way to keep your HVAC system in good working order. When you sign up, Berico puts you on a schedule for twice yearly maintenance and heating fuel delivery as needed. You never have to worry about running out of propane or heating oil because Berico times refills based on the amount you typically use and the weather each season. Your well maintained system will be less likely to break down, keeping your home comfortable all year long and your energy bills low.

Sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement today and be prepared for a warm fall. Call (336) 273-8663.

Steps to Follow Before you Turn On your Furnace

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A photo of a thermostatAs fall approaches it’s time to start thinking about the condition of your furnace. It’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare your furnace for cold weather before the first chilly night. Don’t wait until it gets cold to change your thermostat to heat just to find out that it won’t come on or isn’t working properly. There are specific steps you can take on your own to prepare, as well as scheduling furnace maintenance in Eden, NC.

  1. Change filters. If you typically change your filters every 1-2 months, you’re already doing what experts recommend to keep dirt and dust out of your system and improve airflow. If not, now is a great time to do that. Dirty, clogged filters allow dirt and dust to get through but not the air that should be able to get through. Low air flow and a dirty furnace can cause problems with your system from decreased efficiency to furnace failure.
  2. Check carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Change the batteries. Most detectors have a test/reset button. Push this button and hold it down until you hear 2 beeps. If your carbon monoxide detector is monitored by your security system, contact your security monitoring center for testing. Why is this important? Because furnaces produce carbon monoxide that should be minimal and vented outside of your home. Your CO monitor will sound if your furnace produces more than it should or isn’t venting properly.
  3. Clean vents. Dust tends to collect around your vents, especially the intake vents. Use a simple duster to remove dust and debris from your vents before switching your furnace on for the first time this season.
  4. Clean around your furnace. With experience, you may be able to clean the inside of your furnace, but it is safer to leave that up to the professionals. You can simply remove dust and debris from the outside of your furnace to prevent it from getting inside when your HVAC company comes to perform maintenance.
  5. Schedule a furnace tune up with your HVAC company. The most important thing to do before turning on your furnace each season is to have your heating and cooling service come out to perform a tune-up. Furnace maintenance in Eden, NC, will help your furnace run more efficiently and prevent problems that could occur in the future.

Furnace Maintenance in Eden, NC, Saves You Money on Heating Costs

If you’re wondering if a furnace tune-up is worth the money, the answer from homeowners and HVAC experts alike is a resounding “Yes.” Just like your car or any other working machine, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it running properly. Your furnace needs to be cleaned, inspected, and sometimes repaired to keep it from breaking down. Furnace maintenance in Eden, NC, includes all of that and more. A well-tuned furnace uses less energy, saving you money on gas, electricity, propane, or oil. And you can avoid emergency and after-hours fees for unexpected breakdowns. Sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement and emergency fees are waived. You’ll also get a discount on propane or heating oil deliveries. Call Carolina Fuels and make sure your furnace is prepared well in advance for cold weather: (336) 623-9741.