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The Best HVAC Filters for Your Home: What You Need to Know

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Your HVAC system’s air filter plays a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. Choosing the right filter can make a significant difference in keeping your home comfortable and free from allergens, dust, and pollutants. Here’s what you need to know about selecting the best HVAC filter for your home.

  1. Understanding MERV Ratings

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating measures an air filter’s effectiveness. Filters with higher MERV ratings capture smaller particles, improving air quality. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • MERV 1-4: Basic filtration, suitable for minimal dust control.
  • MERV 5-8: Captures common allergens like dust mites and mold spores, good for most homes.
  • MERV 9-12: Traps finer particles, including pet dander and smoke, ideal for allergy sufferers.
  • MERV 13-16: High-level filtration, removing bacteria and even some viruses, great for homes with respiratory concerns.
  • MERV 17+: Used in hospitals and clean rooms, not typically necessary for residential use.
  1. Types of HVAC Filters
  • Fiberglass Filters: Affordable and disposable, but offer minimal filtration.
  • Pleated Filters: More effective at capturing dust and allergens, available in various MERV ratings.
  • Electrostatic Filters: Use static charge to attract particles, effective for allergy sufferers.
  • HEPA Filters: Capture 99.97% of particles, excellent for those with severe allergies or respiratory conditions.
  • Washable Filters: Reusable and eco-friendly, but require regular maintenance.
  1. Choosing the Right Filter for Your Needs

Consider your household’s specific needs when selecting a filter:

  • For Allergy Sufferers: Choose a MERV 9-12 or HEPA filter.
  • For Homes with Pets: A pleated filter with a higher MERV rating will trap pet dander and hair.
  • For General Use: A MERV 8-10 filter provides a good balance of efficiency and airflow.
  • For Energy Efficiency: A filter with too high a MERV rating may restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder. Consult a professional to find the right balance.
  1. How Often Should You Replace Your Filter?

Regular replacement is key to maintaining HVAC efficiency and air quality:

  • Standard Filters: Replace every 1-3 months.
  • HEPA Filters: Every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
  • Washable Filters: Clean every month and replace as needed.
  1. Benefits of Using High-Quality Filters
  • Improved indoor air quality
  • Extended lifespan of your HVAC system
  • Lower energy bills due to improved efficiency
  • Reduced allergens and respiratory irritants

Upgrade Your HVAC Filter for a Healthier Home Selecting the right air filter is essential for maintaining both indoor air quality and HVAC system performance. If you need help choosing the best filter for your home, contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning today. With over 50 years of experience, we’re here to ensure your home stays comfortable and healthy year-round. #MarshHeating

Choosing the Right Furnace for Your Home: A Guide from Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

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As the winter chill deepens and temperatures consistently stay below freezing, ensuring your home is equipped with the right furnace is more crucial than ever for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Since 1974, Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning has been helping residents choose the best heating solutions for their homes. This guide will explore the various types of furnaces available and how to determine which one is right for your specific needs.

Evaluating your home’s heating requirements is the first step in selecting the right furnace. The size of your furnace should match the size of your home to ensure efficient heating. Both oversized and undersized units can lead to inefficiencies and increased wear. The condition and layout of your existing ductwork might influence the type of furnace that will work best, or if modifications are needed. Additionally, consider how a high-efficiency furnace, though more expensive upfront, could save you money in the long run through reduced energy bills.

There are several types of furnaces to consider:

  • Gas Furnaces: The most common type, known for their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, particularly suitable for areas where natural gas is readily available.
  • Electric Furnaces: An ideal choice for regions where electricity costs are lower. These are generally cheaper to install but may have higher operational costs.
  • Oil Furnaces: Preferred in areas where oil is more economical than gas and electricity. These units require more maintenance but are essential for certain locales.

When selecting a furnace, also consider features that enhance comfort and efficiency. Variable speed blowers adjust the speed of the blower motor to finely control airflow, enhancing both comfort and efficiency. Two-stage furnaces can operate at low or high speeds, providing better energy efficiency and temperature control compared to single-stage furnaces.

The importance of professional installation by certified technicians cannot be overstated. A properly installed furnace by experts like those at Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning ensures optimal performance and longevity. Regular maintenance is also crucial to extend the life of the furnace and prevent costly repairs.

If you are considering upgrading your home’s heating system, consult with the experts at Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team can help guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose a system that provides efficiency, comfort, and reliability. For more detailed information and options, visit our furnace page at Marsh Heating Furnaces.

Choosing the right furnace involves considering several factors tailored to your home’s specifics and your personal preferences. Contact Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning today to schedule a consultation with our experts. Let us help you navigate through your furnace selection process and ensure your home stays warm and cozy through the harsh winter months.

Decorating Your Home for the Holidays on a Budget

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The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, and decorating your home is a big part of the festive spirit. However, you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your living space merry and bright. Here are some cost-effective tips for holiday decorating.

Budget-Friendly Decorating Tips:

  1. DIY Decorations: Craft your own decorations with household items. Homemade wreaths from fallen branches, paper snowflakes, and string lights can create a cozy atmosphere.
  2. Use Natural Elements: Decorate with pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches. These can often be collected for free from your own backyard or a nearby park.
  3. Repurpose and Reuse: Bring out any previous years’ decorations and consider rearranging them to give your space a fresh look without purchasing new items.
  4. Thrift Shopping: Visit local thrift stores or garage sales where you can find unique decorations at a fraction of the cost of retail stores.
  5. Lights: A simple string of white lights can add a festive touch to any space, and they’re usually inexpensive to purchase.

Keeping Your Home Warm: While decorating is key to holiday cheer, ensuring your home is warm and welcoming is just as important. If your furnace isn’t keeping up with the colder weather, don’t wait until it’s too late. Give us a call at Marsh Heating. We can check your heating system to ensure it runs efficiently throughout the holidays and beyond.

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your home into a winter wonderland on a budget. And remember, keeping your home warm is crucial during this festive season. If you encounter any issues with your heating, we’re here to help.

For any heating concerns this winter, contact Marsh Heating. Let us take care of the warmth while you focus on holiday cheer!

Essential Furnace Safety Tips for the Winter

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As temperatures drop, furnaces become indispensable for home heating. However, ensuring your furnace operates safely is crucial to prevent hazards. Here’s how you can maintain safety while keeping your home warm this winter.

Safety Tips for Your Furnace:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections with Marsh Heating to ensure your furnace is in top condition. Our maintenance plans offer comprehensive checks that can prevent potential safety issues and extend the life of your unit.

  2. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless but highly dangerous. Install detectors near your furnace and in sleeping areas to ensure your family’s safety.

  3. Keep the Area Clear: Ensure there are no flammable materials near your furnace. This includes keeping the area free from storage, papers, and chemicals that could ignite.

  4. Check the Flame: The flame in your gas furnace should burn bright blue. If it’s yellow or flickering, it could indicate a problem, such as the presence of carbon monoxide. Call for service if the flame is not blue.

  5. Test Safety Switches: Modern furnaces have built-in safety switches that automatically shut down the furnace if a problem is detected. Test these switches to ensure they are functional.

  6. Consider a New Furnace: If your furnace is old and requires frequent repairs, it might be time to consider a new installation. New furnaces offer improved safety features, efficiency, and reliability.

Following these furnace safety tips can help you enjoy a safe, warm winter without unexpected breakdowns or safety hazards. Remember, keeping up with regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your furnace’s safety and efficiency.

Not sure about the state of your furnace? Contact Marsh Heating today to learn more about our maintenance plans or to discuss new furnace options. Ensure your home’s warmth and safety this winter season.

Furnace Options for Older Homes

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Older homes come with unique challenges when it comes to heating efficiently and effectively. With 50 years of service and expertise, Marsh Heating understands the intricacies involved in choosing the right furnace solution. Here’s a guide to navigating furnace options tailored for older properties.

Choosing the Right Furnace:

  1. Size and Fit: Older homes often have space constraints or unique layouts that require compact or custom-fit solutions. Ensure the new furnace installation is sized correctly for optimal efficiency.

  2. Energy Efficiency: High-efficiency furnaces can offer significant savings on heating bills and are often a wise investment for older homes, which may not be as well-insulated as newer constructions.

  3. Type of Furnace: Consider whether a gas, electric, or oil furnace best suits the home’s existing infrastructure and your heating preferences. Each has its benefits and limitations, particularly in older structures.

  4. Integration with Existing Systems: It’s crucial to choose a furnace that can integrate seamlessly with existing ductwork and ventilation, minimizing the need for extensive modifications.

  5. Historic Preservation: In historic homes, preserving the integrity and aesthetics of the architecture is important. Work with a heating expert who understands these requirements and can suggest appropriate furnace repair or replacement options that comply with local regulations.

Advanced Features to Consider:

  • Variable Speed Blowers: These adjust the airflow to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the home, ideal for older homes with multiple drafts or uneven insulation.
  • Smart Thermostats: Upgrade to smart thermostats that allow for better control and scheduling, adapting heating needs without manual intervention.

 

Upgrading the furnace in an older home requires careful consideration of the structure’s specific needs. With Marsh Heating’s five decades of experience, you can trust that your new furnace installation or repair will enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency. Whether it’s a straightforward furnace repair or a comprehensive new furnace installation, we ensure your heating solution is tailored perfectly for your historic home.

Contact Us: Ready to explore furnace options for your older home? Contact Marsh Heating today to leverage our expertise and ensure your home remains warm and welcoming through the colder months.

Energy Savings For The Fall Season

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As the leaves begin to change and the air cools, it’s the perfect time to consider how you can save energy and reduce your heating costs. With a few simple adjustments, particularly to your home’s heating system, you can enjoy a comfortable and cost-effective fall season.

Optimize Your Heating System:

  1. Maintain Your Furnace: Regular furnace repair and maintenance are crucial to ensure your system is running efficiently. A well-maintained furnace uses less energy to heat your home, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.

  2. Check and Replace the Furnace Filter: A clean furnace filter improves air flow and increases overall system efficiency. Replacing or cleaning your furnace filter every few months during the fall can prevent dust and dirt from building up, which can impede airflow and cause your system to work harder.

  3. Use a Programmable Thermostat: Setting your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping can reduce your heating costs by as much as 10% per year.

  4. Seal Leaks and Insulate: Sealing leaks around doors, windows, and other openings can prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Adequate insulation in your attic, walls, and floors is equally important as it reduces the rate of heat transfer.

  5. Schedule Professional Maintenance: Have a professional technician from Marsh Heating perform a comprehensive check of your heating system to ensure everything is in optimal condition. This not only helps in energy conservation but also extends the life of your HVAC equipment.

Implementing these energy-saving tips during the fall can help reduce your heating costs while maintaining a comfortable and cozy home environment. Remember, effective furnace repair and timely replacement of the furnace filter are key steps towards a more energy-efficient home.

For more tips or to schedule a maintenance visit, contact Marsh Heating. Let us help you prepare for the fall season with efficient and reliable heating solutions.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair

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As temperatures dip, a reliable furnace becomes increasingly crucial to your home’s comfort and safety. At Marsh Heating, with over 50 years of expert service experience, we understand the importance of catching furnace problems early. Here’s how you can identify signs that your furnace might need repairs.

Key Signs Your Furnace Needs Attention:

  1. Unusual Noises: Squealing, banging, or rattling sounds can indicate mechanical issues, from loose belts to a malfunctioning blower motor.
  2. Increased Energy Bills: An unexpected rise in energy costs often suggests that your furnace is not operating efficiently. It may be working harder than usual to provide the same amount of heat.
  3. Inconsistent Heating: If some rooms are too hot while others remain cold, your furnace may not be distributing air properly.
  4. Frequent Cycling: Does your furnace turn on and off more frequently than it used to? This could be a sign of a faulty thermostat or a problem with the furnace’s ignition system.
  5. Yellow Pilot Light: The pilot light should always burn a clear blue. A yellow or flickering flame is a potential safety hazard and could be a sign of carbon monoxide presence.
  6. Poor Air Quality: An increase in dust or soot particles in the air, or signs of rust in the exhaust or on the furnace itself, can indicate problems.

Mid Cities Furnace Repair: If you’re experiencing any of these issues in the Mid Cities area, it’s time to call in the experts. Marsh Heating is here to provide comprehensive furnace repair services. Don’t wait for the furnace to fail completely; addressing problems early can save you time, money, and discomfort.

Recognizing these signs early can be the key to preventing more significant furnace issues down the line. For reliable and efficient furnace repair, trust Marsh Heating. We are committed to maintaining the warmth and safety of your home with our expert services.

If you suspect your furnace may need repairs, don’t hesitate to contact us. With five decades of experience, we’re equipped to handle all your heating needs.

763.536.0667

End-of-Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

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As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Here’s a comprehensive end-of-summer maintenance checklist to ensure your home is in top condition:

  1. Inspect Roof and Gutters: Check for damaged or missing shingles and clear out gutters to prevent water buildup.

  2. Check Windows and Doors: Seal any gaps to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs in the coming months.

  3. Service Your HVAC System: Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace or AC to ensure your system is ready for its next season of use. Replace filters and check for any issues.

  4. Test Safety Devices: Check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are functioning properly.

  5. Clean and Store Yard Equipment: Clean tools and lawn equipment before storing them for the winter.

  6. Prepare Your Garden: Prune plants, mulch garden beds, and plan any fall plantings.

  7. Examine Exterior Paint: Touch up any areas to protect the wood from moisture and temperature changes.

  8. Drain and Store Hoses: Drain garden hoses and store them to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

  9. Check Insulation: Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to keep heat in during the winter.

By following this checklist, you can protect your home from potential damage, save on energy costs, and ensure a comfortable environment as seasons change.

Simple Home Repairs You Can Do Yourself

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Home maintenance doesn’t always require professional help. There are several simple repairs you can undertake yourself to keep your home in top condition, saving both time and money. Here are some DIY fixes that any homeowner can manage:

  1. Unclogging Drains: Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear blockages in sinks and tubs.
  2. Fixing Leaky Faucets: Often, a quick washer replacement can solve a dripping faucet, conserving water and cutting down on utility bills.
  3. Patch and Paint: Small holes in walls from nails or minor dings can be easily filled with spackling paste and covered with touch-up paint.
  4. Squeaky Doors: A little WD-40 or silicone spray on hinges can quiet those irritating squeaks.
  5. Replacing Thermostat Batteries: Keep your HVAC system running efficiently by regularly changing the batteries in your programmable thermostat.
  6. Furnace Maintenance: While major furnace repair should be handled by professionals, replacing filters and cleaning vents are simple tasks that improve efficiency and safety.

These manageable projects not only enhance your home’s functionality but also increase your comfort and pride in your living space. However, it’s wise to call in the experts for more involved issues like major furnace repair. This approach ensures your system remains reliable, especially during peak usage times.

We at Marsh Heating have been proudly providing HVAC services to the Twin Cities for over 40 years, building a legacy of trust and expertise in the community. Whether you need a simple tune-up or major furnace repair, we’re here to help every step of the way.

What You Can Do to Avoid Furnace Repairs?

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Furnace repairs don’t come cheap. In fact, you’re probably going to get charged just to have a heating expert visit your home. That goes without saying the inconvenience brought about by a malfunctioning unit, especially when you need it the most. But don’t fret, with a few steps you can actually avoid the inconvenience and costs associated with a faulty furnace.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your leading heating company in Roseville MN. We have teams of trained and seasoned technicians who are adept at maintaining furnaces in tip-top shape.

Here are some tips you should consider to make sure your furnace works as it should.

Choose the right furnace for your home.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure your furnace meets your home’s heating needs. Therefore, you should pay close attention to the unit you want to be installed in your home. Choose a reputable brand that is known to build heavy-duty, energy-efficient HVAC systems. These names may cost more compared to less-known ones, but quality eventually wins over price.

Pick the right installation team.

The quality of installation plays a major part in the overall performance and energy efficiency of your furnace. That’s why you should choose the right HVAC company, which may require some research. Selecting the right team to install your system is as important as choosing the furnace itself. A good team of technicians possesses in-depth knowledge of the product and installs the system according to the manufacturer’s specifications. As a result, you’ll enjoy optimum comfort and significant energy savings.

It is also important to work with a company duly licensed and certified to deal with heating systems. A legitimate HVAC company complies with legal requirements, whether it’s federal, state, or local. By determining the contractor’s authority, you can have peace of mind, knowing that they will be there in case of complaints and inquiries after the installation is completed. To do this, you can check a contractor’s history by verifying it with the Better Business Bureau’s website.

Moreover, work with an installation team that has the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification. This certification will guarantee the workmanship and customer service skills of the technician are on par with industry standards.

Pay attention to your furnace.

It’s possible for your heating system to not be in good condition but you haven’t noticed it. But the sooner you identify the problem, the better. If you ignore the issue, a furnace repair can easily cause you major financial concerns. So, be sure to get in touch with a professional if you notice unusual things, such as abnormal short-cycling (turning on and off of the system), odd noises coming from the unit, hot and cold spots, unexpected temperature fluctuations.

Be on top of the filter.

Your furnace’s filter is the part that you can clean or replace without the help of an expert. You can save money on a service call just by simply knowing how to manage it. A clogged filter causes different kinds of issues, including inconsistent heating and system overheating. To ensure the system has proper airflow, change your filter at least once per month—you’ll be happy you did.

Schedule routine maintenance.

The most effective way to keep your furnace in great shape and prevent repairs is by scheduling maintenance for your system. A regular furnace tune-up is a service offered by many HVAC contractors. This process gives your furnace a comprehensive inspection and adjustment, making it less likely you’ll run into problems when your furnace is working the hardest.

Qualified technicians will check your heating system’s ignition, examine the filter, replace or adjust small components, clean off the burners, and more. These steps are critical to the proper functioning of the system as well as its operational safety. Now, we’re sure you won’t risk your family and home’s safety.

Ask the Heating Masters

To enjoy hassle-free New Brighton heating and air conditioning maintenance, be sure to work with a reputable company like Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. Because of our dedication to excellence, we are duly recognized as a Lennox Premier Dealer, a distinction given to contractors that meet and exceed industry standards in workmanship and service.

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Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning
6248 Lakeland Ave N
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
(763) 536-0667