Althoff Home Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Lake Zurich’

Tips for Preventing an AC Breakdown

Monday, August 12th, 2024
Woman sitting on a couch fanning herself with a blue fan, indicating need for AC maintenance.

AC breakdowns happen all the time. But we have a secret to tell you. AC breakdowns usually happen when homeowners do not keep up with regular maintenance steps to care for their air conditioners. You can keep reading to learn our best recommendations for how to take excellent care of your air conditioner, and how to stop it from breaking down.

What simple maintenance steps help prevent an AC breakdown?

  • Choose and replace the correct air filter regularly (every 1-3 months depending on dust/pet levels) to prevent airflow restriction
  • Rinse the outdoor condenser unit monthly to remove dirt and debris that block heat transfer
  • Keep all indoor vents open to maintain system airflow and avoid pressure buildup
  • Inspect the exterior casing for leaks or damage, wipe it down and check connections each month
  • Schedule annual professional preventive maintenance for coil cleaning, refrigerant check, lubrication, electrical tightening, and thermostat testing

Of course, if anything ever does happen, you can give our team a call for AC repair in Lake Zurich. We can review the problems, get them fixed, and even offer tips for preventing the same problem from happening again in the future. Staying proactive with regular AC maintenance can significantly reduce the chance of unexpected breakdowns.

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Uncommon Heating Repair Requests You Might Run Into

Monday, December 4th, 2023

There are heater problems, and then there are heater problems. Some heater issues are very common and easy to deal with. Others are less common and can lead to expensive and involved repairs. The best way to stay ahead of any type of heater problem is to know what signs to look for.

You can keep reading to learn more about the benefits of prioritizing heater repair in Lake Zurich, IL. We’re highlighting some of the less common heater repairs that we see along with the signs of each one so that you can stay ahead of a furnace breakdown.

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What Happens During Central Air Conditioner Maintenance?

Monday, June 19th, 2023
Outdoor central air conditioning unit next to a brick house, indicating central air conditioning repair needs.

If you haven’t already scheduled air conditioner maintenance this year, now is as good of a time as any. It’s always better to schedule AC maintenance when it is convenient for you rather than skipping it altogether.

What happens during central air conditioner maintenance?

  • A technician begins with a full system inspection, checking both your indoor and outdoor units for any visible damage or issues.
  • They perform an indoor system check, inspecting the air filter, condensate drain, electrical connections, ducts, and vents for proper operation and airflow.
  • Then they move on to the outdoor unit, cleaning off debris, straightening bent fins, and opening the unit if troubleshooting is needed.
  • Finally, they provide professional recommendations to improve efficiency, reduce strain, and extend the system’s lifespan.

When you are new to central air conditioner maintenance in Lake Zurich, IL, you may be wondering what to expect during an appointment with our technicians. You can keep reading to learn more about an air conditioning maintenance appointment so you know what to expect. Then, give our team a call to schedule your appointment before summer is over. In the meantime, learn 4 ways AC maintenance saves you money and boosts system performance.

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Your Furnace Shouldn’t Be Making These Sounds

Monday, March 13th, 2023

Winter is almost over and your furnace has been working hard to keep your home warm all season long. That means that it may need some extra help to keep it operational moving forward.

When your heater is on you shouldn’t hear loud or unusual sounds. Sure, your furnace isn’t completely quiet, but the sounds coming from your furnace should never be alarming. Loud furnace noises are likely indicators of a need for a furnace repair in Lake Zurich, IL

No matter what the sound is, you want to call our team of heating experts sooner rather than later. Here are some of the noises that indicate you need to schedule repairs before your furnace is in big trouble.

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6 Signs That Your Furnace Needs Repair

Monday, November 21st, 2022
Technician performing new gas furnace installation, securing front panel on wall-mounted unit.

Your furnace is arguably the most important appliance in your home during the winter season. It keeps your home warm and your family comfortable, but it also does more than that. Your heater protects your home’s pipes from freezing or bursting on the coldest winter days. 

But when your furnace goes unused for around half of the year, it may need a tune-up before taking on the freezing temperatures that are around the corner for our community. If you need furnace installers and are looking for a furnace repair in Lake Zurich, IL, give our team a call. Furnace installers have specialized training to safely handle sharp metals, heavy objects, and power tools during installation and repair. Special training is required for the furnace installation process because each system has unique requirements that only a qualified HVAC professional can address. Furnace installation in Rockford must be performed by a licensed HVAC contractor, with a professional furnace installer overseeing the furnace installation process to ensure all steps are completed safely and efficiently. You can also schedule this important heating service today to make sure your system is ready.

When should I replace my furnace rather than repair it?

  • Frequent repair signs — if you’re seeing recurring repair needs like strange noises, poor heating, or pilot issues, it may be time to install a new unit.
  • Age beyond useful life — furnaces older than 15–20 years often lose efficiency and reliability, making replacement more economical.
  • Persistent insufficient heat — when repairs can’t restore full warmth, a new furnace installation ensures comfort.
  • Safety or health risks — lingering odors, discoloration in pilot lights, or air quality issues indicate serious faults that warrant a new system.
  • Better long‑term performance & warranties — new gas furnaces or high‑efficiency models often offer improved warranties, lower energy costs, and modern controls.

Introduction to Furnace Repair

When the temperatures drop, your furnace becomes the heart of your home’s comfort. A properly functioning furnace ensures that heated air circulates efficiently, keeping your family warm and your heating bills under control. However, even the most reliable heating system can develop issues over time, leading to reduced energy efficiency and higher costs. That’s why furnace repair is so important, not only does it restore your system’s performance, but it also helps you save money in the long run.

If you notice any signs that your furnace isn’t working as it should, it’s crucial to contact a professional HVAC technician right away. An experienced HVAC contractor and HVAC company has the expertise to diagnose and repair problems quickly, ensuring your furnace operates at peak efficiency. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the lifespan of your system, improve indoor air quality, and prevent unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months. Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major headache, trust a qualified furnace installer to keep your heating system running smoothly and efficiently all season long.

Safety Precautions During Furnace Installation

Before beginning any furnace installation, safety is paramount. HVAC professionals will ensure that all electrical breakers connected to the furnace are turned off to prevent electrical hazards. Gas lines and fuel lines are also safely shut off before the work begins. Additionally, the installation area is carefully prepared by clearing any obstructions and laying down floor coverings to protect your home’s surfaces from damage during the installation process. These steps help create a safe and efficient work environment for the technicians and protect your property.

Evaluating Your Current Furnace

Before deciding on a furnace replacement, it’s important to take a close look at your current system. Start by considering the age of your furnace, most furnaces have a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years. If your furnace is approaching or has surpassed this range, it may be time to think about a new electric furnace. Another key factor is the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating, which measures how efficiently your furnace converts natural gas or electricity into heat. Older units often have lower AFUE ratings, meaning they use more energy and drive up your heating bills.

Frequent repairs are another sign that your furnace may be nearing the end of its useful life. If you find yourself calling for repairs more often, the costs can quickly add up, making replacement a more cost-effective option in the long run. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient furnace can help you save money on both repairs and monthly heating costs, while also providing more reliable comfort. By evaluating your furnace’s efficiency, repair history, and age, you can make an informed decision about whether to repair or replace your heating system.

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