The weather is changing quickly, and soon enough we’ll be shutting off our air conditioning systems for good. When you turn on your heating system, you may notice some problems at start up that developed last winter or over a long period of disuse. While these problems may appear to be minor, it’s so important that you get them fixed ASAP.
Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning Blog : Archive for the ‘Heating’ Category
Don’t Hold Off for Any Longer: Repair Your Faulty Heating System Today
Monday, September 14th, 2015Can Heating Maintenance Really Save You Money?
Tuesday, September 8th, 2015Heating technicians throughout the area are encouraging customers to take the time now to get their heating systems into shape for the wintertime. Most HVAC companies offer a heating maintenance service that involves an inspection of the heating system as well as a tune-up of major and minor components.
Why It’s a Good Idea to Start Thinking About Your Heating System Today
Monday, August 31st, 2015Temperatures are generally still a bit higher than is comfortable, which makes it hard to imagine that cooler weather is approaching. When you’re still going inside to turn on the AC and beat the 80°+ weather, your heating system might be the last thing on your mind. But maintaining your heating system today can actually save you a whole lot of money and hassle later on.
How Does Zone Heating Work?
Friday, February 20th, 2015If you’ve been looking for a way to customize your heating, you may want to consider the installation of zone heating in your Woodland Park, CO, home. Zone heating allows you to heat your home in independent zones, as designated by you. There’ll be no more complaints about being too hot or too cold, issues with uneven heating or wasting energy heating space no one is in. So how does zone heating work? We’ll explain below.
The Main Components
These are the main components in a zone heating system:
- The motorized dampers
- The main control panel
- The thermostats for each zone
The first step of any zone heating installation is determining with your technician what the zones will be. Zones can be individual rooms, a group of rooms, a floor of your home, etc.; the decision is yours. Once the zones are designated, your supply ducts are outfitted with motorized dampers that are connected to a main control panel. The technician will then install a thermostat into each zone and connect each thermostat to the control panel. When the system is operational, the control panel will open and close the motorized dampers as needed to maintain the temperatures set in each zone.
Why Consider Installing Zone Heating?
Here are some reasons why zone heating may be a good choice for your home:
- Customized comfort – as mentioned above, zone heating systems allow you to customize your comfort throughout your home, increasing comfort and functionality.
- Better energy efficiency – a zone heating system allows you to use only the heating you need because you can shut down a zone without affecting the rest of your duct system.
- Less wear on your heating system – when you use only the amount of heating you need, your system runs less; this helps reduce the amount of wear on your system.
If zone heating in your Woodland Park, CO, home sounds like it may be a good option, call Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning today!
Reasons to Consider a Commercial Boiler
Friday, January 9th, 2015Having your commercial space be warm and comfortable throughout the winter months is critical to your business. As such, you’ll want to choose a system that will be durable and reliable for years to come. One such system to consider is a commercial boiler. Boilers are found in all kinds of properties, from residences to churches and schools because boilers can effectively heat various-sized spaces. Here are some factors to consider about the installation of a commercial boiler in your Fountain, CO business space:
- Easy zoning – boilers use a system of pipes to deliver the hot water or steam that heats your space. It is very easy to set up different heating zones with this piping, which will allow you to customize your comfort as you want.
- Efficient – today’s boilers have an average efficiency rating over 80%, and condensing boilers have efficiency ratings over 90%.
- Fuel choices – boilers can be fueled by gas, oil, propane, electricity and solid fuels, such as pellets or wood.
- Choices for outlets – the heat from boilers can be dispersed throughout your business space by radiators, hydronic radiant floor heating or baseboard heating; you can even create a combination of outlets.
- Quiet – boiler systems are very quiet; in fact, the only noise made is when the boiler is heating the water.
- Good for allergy sufferers – forced air system keep air circulating constantly, kicking up dust and dirt that can agitate indoor allergies.
- Comfortable heating – the heat from boilers comes from a surface, not from blown hot air, so the heat is gentle and to many people, more comfortable.
- Balances indoor moisture – forced air systems can create a very dry atmosphere; because boilers heat in radiant manner, the moisture levels stay more stable, which can feel better for skin, eyes and noses.
The installation of a commercial boiler in Fountain, CO, should be handled only be a trained commercial heating expert.
Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning technicians have been serving residential and commercial customers since 1970, so if you are ready for a new commercial heater, call us today!
Is Installing a Furnace Safe for My Home?
Friday, January 2nd, 2015Long ago, furnaces were not always considered the safest systems to install in a home. But today’s models are some of the most efficient, safe, and reliable heating systems out there, able to detect safety hazards quickly and activate features to shut down the unit or turn off the gas right away. New furnace installation should be very safe for your home, as long as you choose professionals for the job.
Furnaces used to operate using a standing pilot light, meaning that the pilot light had to remain lit at all times. Today’s manufacturer’s don’t use standing pilots, but even if your current furnace still has one, it probably has a safety feature that models built decades ago were not equipped with. Very old furnaces had no safety mechanism in place to prevent gas from continuing to leak out if the flame were to ever go out. This posed health and safety hazards that were later corrected with a piece called the thermocouple. The thermocouple senses when there is no longer a flame and shuts off the gas immediately.
But modern furnaces don’t actually need a standing gas pilot light. Instead, they use an electronic ignition system to light the burner only when heat is needed. If the burners don’t light up after a few seconds, a flame sensor shuts off the gas valve. A few other parts are also in place to protect you and your family, such as the air pressure switch that shuts off the gas when combustion gases are not venting properly and the limit switch which keeps the chamber from overheating.
When you choose professionals for the job, your new furnace installation should go smoothly. Your new furnace won’t just be as safe it can possibly be; it will also help you to save money from month to month if you work with an expert to choose a unit with a high AFUE rating and the ENERGY STAR seal of approval. And if you follow up your new installation with annual heating maintenance, you can protect your home safety for years to come.
The experts at Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning are trained to give you the most thorough maintenance visit possible and install your new Colorado Springs heating system safely and with utmost accuracy.
3 Common Signs that It’s Time to Schedule Furnace Repair
Thursday, December 18th, 2014Have you noticed anything unusual with your furnace lately? Oftentimes, homeowners sense something strange with the furnace, but they still don’t suspect their system is in trouble. This means they’ll end up waiting to schedule repairs until later on assuming that there is no risk for their unit at the present time. But many of these same people end up discovering this is not true in the most jarring way—when a sudden heating breakdown occurs.
When you notice any type of problem with your unit, small or large, it’s time to call for heating repair. A furnace problem is indicative of a single part or many parts that are wearing down, and when this happens all of the other parts have to work a little bit harder to keep up. This means that the other parts could become worn down as well until a component failure causes your entire unit to stop working. Look for the following warning signs and call a technician at Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning for heating repair in Woodland Park.
- Low Heating Capability: If you feel some heat, but the unit never quite seems to reach the temperature you desire, you may think that heating repair can wait. But this means that something in the unit is not quite right, and an eventual failure is unfortunately inevitable.
- Unusual Noises: Strange noises are indicative of a number of problems, from a faulty electrical control (often a buzzing noise) to a gas buildup in the furnace (a banging noise which can be very dangerous).
- Short Cycling: “Short cycling” is a term used to describe a heating system that starts up only to shut down shortly afterwards. If your system is short cycling, it could be for number of reasons. You may simply have a faulty blower motor or a malfunctioning thermostat. Or your flue gases are not venting properly, causing the safety control to shut off the unit after running for only a short time.
Don’t delay! Contact Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule service with quality technicians heating repair in Woodland Park today!
Commercial Heating Installation: A Job Best Left to the Professionals
Monday, November 17th, 2014Replacing an older commercial heating system is a tough decision that takes a lot of careful consideration. You may have just begun to notice reduced heating capability or other problems with your business’s heating system. Or, maybe multiple repair needs in recent years have led to the decision to replace. But finding the right technician for the job can be a stressful situation when you’re not certain how to find someone you can trust.
When you finally make the choice to replace your older commercial heating system, be sure to call on specialists with experience in commercial units. This is simply the only way to ensure that the installation is done properly and that there are no safety hazards remaining after installation. Ask your technicians about their previous experience on large commercial units or search through their website to find out more information about the company. While it may seem as though any heating technician will be sufficient, only a select few know the ins and outs of large commercial units.
One of the foremost reasons to have your commercial heating system installed by a specialist is sizing. Commercial systems can be very difficult for the average technician to size, as there are a lot of factors that must go into the decision. Technicians make precise calculations based on the size of the business, the number of rooms, units, or offices, and the number of people in the building, as well as factors like insulation and the placement of windows. Whether or not you need zone control to vary the temperature throughout the building is also an important consideration that a residential technician may not be prepared for. If your heating system is too small, you won’t get enough heating power, while if it is too large, it will consume too much energy and may have a problem due to short cycling.
Another reason to only rely on trained and experienced technician is time constraints. For a busy commercial property, you want heat restored as soon as possible so that you can get back to work and keep your customers, clients, employees, and/or tenants happy and comfortable.
When you want installation completed quickly and thoroughly, choose the experts on commercial heating in Colorado Springs. Call Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning today!
3 Common Reasons for Boiler Repair
Monday, November 10th, 2014Boilers may operate in different ways than most other heating systems, and maintaining them requires specialized knowledge. Our team of boiler experts brings years of experience in boiler repair, maintenance, and installation, ensuring reliable and comprehensive solutions for both residential and industrial clients. We understand the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and prompt repairs to keep your system running safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify issues early, including internal corrosion and safety hazards. We also offer to inspect your boiler as part of our services to ensure optimal performance and safety. Reliable boiler repair services are essential for maintaining comfort and safety in homes and businesses, especially during cold seasons when a functioning boiler is crucial for warmth and comfort. Regular maintenance helps maintain steady temperatures and lowers heating costs. As part of comprehensive HVAC solutions, we also address cooling needs to ensure year-round climate control.
They are still imperfect, however, and that results in their occasional need for repairs. Older boilers are more prone to frequent repairs and may eventually need to be replaced for improved efficiency and reliability. The cost of boiler repair and maintenance can vary depending on several factors, so understanding these costs is important for homeowners and businesses. Below, we’ll take a look at three of the most common reasons for boiler repair, and what can be done about it.
Introduction to Boiler Systems
A well-functioning boiler system is the backbone of efficient heating and hot water for both homes and businesses. These systems are made up of key components—including the boiler itself, a burner, and a series of controls—that work together to deliver reliable warmth and comfort throughout your property. Whether you rely on steam boilers, combi boilers, or hot water boilers, each boiler type offers unique advantages tailored to different heating needs and building requirements.
To keep your boiler system operating at its best, regular boiler maintenance is essential. Routine checks, cleaning, and timely repairs help prevent common boiler issues such as leaks, uneven heating, or loss of hot water. By investing in professional boiler repair services, homeowners and business owners can ensure their systems remain safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
When unexpected problems arise, having access to emergency boiler repairs is crucial. A reliable boiler service provider can deliver prompt assistance, minimizing downtime and restoring comfort quickly—especially during the coldest months. Whether you’re facing an emergency boiler breakdown or simply want to schedule routine maintenance, it’s important to contact experienced professionals who understand the complexities of modern boiler systems.
Understanding how your boiler system works and prioritizing regular maintenance not only helps prevent costly repairs but also improves energy efficiency and extends the life of your equipment. By partnering with trusted repair services, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your heating system is in expert hands, ready to provide efficient and dependable service whenever you need it.
The Importance of Boiler Safety
Boiler safety is essential for ensuring your heating system operates reliably and efficiently throughout the year. A malfunctioning boiler can pose serious risks, including gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, and even the potential for explosions. Technicians conduct initial safety checks for gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions before starting repairs. That’s why it’s critical for homeowners and businesses to make sure their boiler system is functioning correctly and receives regular boiler maintenance from professional boiler repair services.
Routine maintenance and annual inspections are key to preventing emergency repairs and keeping your boiler running at peak performance. As part of routine maintenance, inspecting and testing safety valves is crucial to ensure safe and efficient boiler operation. Professional service technicians can identify and address minor boiler issues—such as mineral buildup, pilot light issues, or pressure problems—before they escalate into costly emergency boiler repairs. Regular maintenance not only helps avoid uneven heating and strange noises but also improves energy efficiency, which can lower your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your boiler.
When your boiler starts acting up, having access to reliable boiler services for prompt emergency repairs is extremely helpful, especially during the cold winter months. Companies specializing in chicago boiler repair and emergency boiler services are equipped to handle urgent situations, restoring heat and hot water quickly to keep your home or business comfortable and safe.
If you’re considering a new boiler installation, it’s important to work with experienced technicians who understand the unique requirements of different boiler types, including steam boilers, combi boilers, and hot water systems. Only certified personnel should handle gas-powered boiler repairs to ensure compliance with safety codes. Professional installation ensures your new boiler is sized correctly, installed safely, and set up for maximum efficiency. Several factors—such as boiler size, combustion system, and internal components—must be considered to provide efficient and reliable heating.
Understanding your specific boiler type and its maintenance needs can help you spot potential problems early. Whether you have an older boiler or a modern unit, being proactive about repairs and maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks, corrosion, and other common issues. Reliable boiler services can also assist with burner repairs, thermostat adjustments, and warranty support to keep your system functioning correctly.
In summary, prioritizing boiler safety through regular maintenance, prompt service, and professional assistance is the best way to protect your investment and ensure customer satisfaction. Don’t wait for an emergency—contact your go-to partner for professional boiler repair services to schedule your annual maintenance and keep your heating system running efficiently all season long.
Kettling
Over time, minerals in the water can build up in the heat exchanger of your boiler. After a few years, these minerals can form deposits large enough to actually restrict or even block the flow of water through your boiler’s heat exchanger. This causes a massive buildup in pressure, as the water evaporates and expands inside the heat exchanger. Kettling is often associated with pressure issues in the boiler system. The result is a rumbling sound, called “kettling.” Other unusual noises indicating potential boiler issues include banging, whistling, gurgling, and grinding. If left alone, this condition can cause extreme damage to your boiler. If your boiler is making this kind of noise, turn it off and call a professional immediately.
Normal operating pressure for a boiler is typically between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold, and low or high pressure can indicate a problem. Low boiler pressure is indicated by a gauge reading below 1 bar, which often requires repressurizing due to leaks. Common signs a boiler needs repair include unusual noises, pressure issues, strange smells, leaks or drips, inconsistent or no heat or hot water, a yellow or extinguishing pilot light, low pressure, and higher energy bills. Inconsistent water temperature is another key indicator of boiler problems, as maintaining proper temperature is essential for system performance and safety. Strange noises from a boiler can indicate underlying issues that may eventually require replacement.
Leaks and drips around the boiler indicate corrosion, mold risk, and potential damage, requiring immediate attention. A yellow pilot light indicates inefficient combustion or a carbon monoxide risk. A sudden spike in energy bills without increased usage suggests the boiler is working harder and is less efficient.
Pilot Light Won’t Stay On
If your pilot light won’t stay on, chances are you have a bad thermocouple. The thermocouple is a metal wire that acts as a sensor for the pilot light. When it senses the heat from the pilot light, it opens the gas valve to keep fueling the flame. A bad thermocouple has often lost the ability to sense the heat from the pilot light. As a result, the gas valve stays closed and smothers the flame.
Boiler Keeps Turning Off
If your boiler keeps turning itself off shortly after being turned on, it is likely that something in the system is triggering a safety measure. Usually, these measures trigger when the system is in danger of overheating or even exploding. Honestly, though, you’ll need an HVAC professional to determine the exact cause for you. The typical boiler repair process includes initial diagnostics, explanation of issues, component repairs or replacements, and safety testing. It is quite possible that your boiler is overheating or experiencing a pressure spike. It is equally possible, however, that a malfunctioning thermostat or blocked water line is the cause. Common boiler repairs can include cleaning components, replacing faulty parts, or recommending a full replacement for older boilers with frequent issues. Either way, it’s not something you should ignore.
If your boiler is old or has frequent issues, a technician may recommend replacement. After deciding to replace an old or faulty boiler, professional technicians will properly install the new unit to ensure safety and efficiency. Making informed decisions about boiler replacement involves considering the long-term plans for the property, and the decision to replace or repair a boiler impacts both functionality and budget.
If you are experiencing problems with your boiler, call Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning. We provide boiler repair services throughout Fountain, CO.
The Steps of a Professional Heating System Tune Up
Monday, November 3rd, 2014Have you thought about the state of your heating system recently? Your heater works hard to keep you warm all winter long, which means parts may wear down and reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of your unit. You can prevent this from happening by scheduling a heating system tune-up from a skilled contractor every year. A heating system tune-up can help reduce your utility bills, extend the life of your equipment, and ensure that you need few repairs over the years. It can also improve the performance of your heating system. In this guide, we’ll go over the steps of professional heating maintenance so that you can feel confident that scheduling your next heating tune-up with an experienced technician is well worth the time.
Full Inspection
The first step of a heating system tune-up is a thorough inspection of all of the major and minor components. This includes starting the unit to check for proper ignition capabilities monitoring the flue draft and checking for any leaks, and measuring the voltage. Besides inspecting your issue for proper operation they will also look for any safety concerns. A cracked heat exchanger may leak carbon monoxide into the home, a health hazard you cannot afford to ignore. Technicians will check any safety controls as well and look for any signs of gas leaks.
Cleaning and Adjustment
Additionally, a heating system tune-up involves some cleaning and any adjustments that can be made on site. Technicians will lubricate all moving parts, adjust the thermostat if necessary, and tighten any electrical connections. Finally, they may also clean and adjust the burner assembly, blower components, ignition assembly, and may change or clean your furnace filter, although you should also change this yourself every 1-3 months.
At Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a thorough precision tune-up annually or semi-annually for your heating system and air conditioner when you sign up for our Residential Energy Savings Agreement.
You’ll get a 15% discount on repairs and many other great benefits for your unit when you join. For a thorough heating system tune up in Fountain, CO, give us a call!
