Tag: system

Get a New HVAC System for Less With Tax Credits and Rebates

The Inflation Reduction Act Incentivizes Energy-Efficient Upgrades

The Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes homeowners to invest in energy-efficient home upgrades. This act provides tax credits and rebates for energy-saving home improvements, including insulation, windows and doors, air conditioners, heaters, and more. This blog will discuss the Inflation Reduction Act, which HVAC systems qualify, and how homeowners can benefit when installing a new energy-efficient HVAC system.  

The Inflation Reduction Act Explained

inflationBuilt into the Inflation Reduction Act are provisions that are meant to encourage investments in green energy, not just for producers but also for consumers. Passed by congress and signed into law in 2022, the IRA aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and make green energy cheaper. 

To achieve these goals, the IRA offers incentives for homeowners to transition to clean energy technologies like electric vehicles and energy-efficient appliances like heaters and air conditioners. These incentives come in the form of tax credits and rebates, with most homeowners, especially low-income families, qualifying for significant savings when upgrading to energy-efficient products.

Qualifying Systems

Not all HVAC systems, however, are eligible for tax credits. Systems must be installed after January 1, 2023, and meet certain energy efficiency requirements to qualify. The chosen equipment must meet or exceed the required efficiency tier established by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency. They also must be installed in the homeowners’ primary residence to qualify for the incentives. 

The tax rebates for installing these systems may be up to 30% of the project cost up to $2,000 for a heat pump, and up to $600 for heaters and air conditioners. The tax credits and rebates should help to offset the cost of installing these systems, making them more affordable for homeowners.

Benefits of the Energy-Efficient Upgrade

benefitsInstalling these energy-efficient HVAC systems can help save homeowners money in the long run as they require less energy to operate. Investing in these systems now will mean enjoying the benefits of an efficient system for years to come. In addition to saving money on energy bills, the tax credits and rebates through the Inflation Reduction Act can help offset the cost of installing a new system, allowing homeowners to save even more. 

Upgrading the HVAC system will also help homeowners avoid costly repairs down the road. With a newer, energy-efficient system, they can expect fewer breakdowns and lower repair costs. Finally, investing in a new system can help improve the comfort of a home. Upgrading an HVAC system can provide a variety of benefits, from energy savings to improved comfort. With the help of rebates and tax credits, enjoy the benefits of an efficient system without breaking the bank. Invest in a new system now and start saving money today!

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning has over 40 years of experience serving Staten Island, NY, and the surrounding communities. They provide budget-friendly options, fast turnarounds, and maintenance plans. Call them today for air conditioning or heater installation in Staten Island, NY.

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A New Heating System for a New Year

Start the New Year Warm and Cozy With a New Heater Installation

There’s nothing worse than spending the cold with a faulty heater. Whether it’s a boiler on the fritz or a furnace throwing a fit, it can be downright dangerous to have a malfunctioning heater. This blog shares some signs that it’s time for a new heater and what to do to make the most of it!

Signs It’s Time for a Heater Replacement

There are certainly some telltale signs that indicate a failing heater. The first thing to look at is the age of the heater. Both furnaces and boilers last about fifteen years. So if the heater is fifteen years old or older, there’s a good chance it’s on its last legs. Heater performance is also something to consider. If the rooms heat unevenly and there are cold spots throughout the house, it means a problem with the heater. 

If the heating costs are higher than usual, it’s another indication that the heater is faulty because issues with the unit can lead to a loss of efficiency.  Finally, it’s good to keep an ear out. Strange sounds from the boiler or furnace often mean a failing heater or component of the heater. If homeowners notice signs of a malfunctioning heating system, they should call a professional before it gets worse.  

Choosing the Right Heater for the Homeheater

Two popular types of residential heaters are furnaces and boilers. Generally, whatever type of heater the house already has will be the best bet for replacement. Boilers are often replaced with boilers and furnaces with furnaces. This is because both systems have associated infrastructure to go with them. This means a system of pipes, baseboard heaters, and radiators for boilers. For furnaces, this means ductwork. So installing a boiler in a house that previously had a furnace would be more expensive than just replacing the furnace.

There are also things to consider when it comes to boilers and furnaces. Boilers tend to be quieter than furnaces and don’t move allergens like dust and pollen around in the air as furnaces do. But boilers rely on heating water, so there can be corrosion and water damage issues if the boiler breaks. Homeowners who need guidance on the right heater for their home should consult a qualified HVAC professional. 

Ensure Proper Maintenance for the New Heating System

maintainingNo matter what kind of heater the home gets,  homeowners should remember the importance of proper maintenance. Like any other complex system, heaters need regular maintenance performed by trained professionals to ensure longevity and performance. When cared for properly with maintenance, the heater will keep the house warm more efficiently, with fewer repairs, lower utility bills, and a longer lifespan.

But if maintenance is skipped, it’s only a matter of time before the heater starts causing problems and losing efficiency. Maintenance also allows professionals to catch any issues before they turn into more costly problems. It’s good for homeowners to think of heater maintenance as caring for their investment. 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning has more than 40 years of expertise serving Staten Island, NY, and the surrounding areas. They provide maintenance plans, fast response, and financing. Call them today for boiler or furnace installation in Staten Island, NY.

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New Year, NEW HVAC System!

Treat Yourself To a Brand New HVAC System This New Year’s!

Most folks spend their New Year’s in the same home for decades. A home is a place of comfort and memories, and it deserves a resolution for this new year: resolve to give it a new HVAC system. A home’s HVAC system is responsible for heating and cooling the home, providing the comfortable environment we expect of our house. 

But everyone knows that HVAC installations can be pricey. It’s essential to many homeowners that the investment comes when most needed. So, how does one know when to invest in a new HVAC system? Keep reading to learn how to determine when the HVAC system needs to be replaced and other tips about installing new HVAC systems this year.

5 Signs the HVAC Needs Replacing

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  • Age: It is critical to know and keep in mind the home’s HVAC system’s age. Systems that are older than 10+ years run on outdated technology and are nearing the end of their life. It’s expected to need a replacement once a decade has passed.
  • Frequent Repairs: If the air conditioner, ducts, or furnace are constantly needing repairs, it’s time to consider replacing the unit. While a replacement part or repair may be needed every other year, once annual repairs or even monthly calls to the HVAC tech have begun, the unit is nearing the end of its life. 
  • Constant Cycling: If the furnace is continuously kicking on, but the house doesn’t get any warmer, or if the A/C keeps running, but the house stays hot, the HVAC system is struggling. Frequent cycling of the system indicates the units have lost efficiency and will need to be replaced soon.
  • Loud Noises: Frequent banging, screeching, or squealing coming from the HVAC system indicates loose parts, damages, or expansion of the unit’s ductwork. These noises often signal the need for repairs that will eventually cause the need for replacement. 
  • Higher Energy Bills: Usually, the first sign homeowners may notice, increased energy bills point to HVAC system problems. As HVAC systems age or become damaged, they lose their efficiency, and energy bills will start to increase. 

Is the Unit the Right Size? 

Whenever there’s a question of sizing the heater or air conditioner of a home, it’s important to reach out to a qualified HVAC technician. A too-small unit will be unable to warm or cool the house properly, and a too-large unit will expend excess energy and increase the cost of energy bills. 

Heaters and air conditioners measure their capacity in BTU or British Thermal Units. To calculate the amount of BTUs needed to warm or cool an entire home, the home’s square footage needs to be factored in alongside the age of the home, the insulation of the home, and the outside environment. Homes in hotter ecosystems will need higher BTU air conditioning units, while homes of the same size in a colder environment might need less, etc. 

The best way to identify if the HVAC system is sized appropriately is to call a professional over. HVAC technicians will be able to verify if the ductwork reaches the entire house, or if the A/C or heater is the right size, and if any changes need to be made in the system.

The Importance of Maintaining the New System

Protecting the investment of a new HVAC system should seem a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget to take care of the unseen ductwork and HVAC units. Regular maintenance is essential to maintaining the units as a whole.

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Regular maintenance increases the lifespan of a unit, as repairs and cleanings are made before excessive damage can occur from any issues that have sprung up. Regular maintenance also keeps the system running at its most efficient, saving homeowners money on their energy bills and keeping the home as comfortable as possible through every season. 

Choosing to install a new HVAC system in the home isn’t just an investment into the property; it’s also an investment in comfort for the new year!

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

The team at PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning knows how frustrating and inconvenient HVAC or plumbing issues can be. They’ve provided quick and reliable HVAC services in Staten Island for over forty years. Their highly-trained technicians work hard to solve any problem they come across and specialize in caring for a home like their own.

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You May Fall in Love With Autumn, but Your HVAC System Won't

What Fall Weather Means for Your System

Different seasons can present unique challenges for an HVAC system. Summer seasons mean more pollen, dirt, and debris. As the weather changes and the heating becomes necessary, these pollutants can build up in the filters and prevent the heating from working at full optimal capacity. Before the weather gets too chilly, test out the heating system. Turn the thermostat up a few degrees and see if the system is slow or quick to respond. If the system takes too long to warm up, there could be a problem. If the system works just fine, it can still be a good idea to keep the temperature up a few degrees before the cold weather sets in. 

This article will give insight on how to help an HVAC system best transition to the colder fall weather.

Beware the Seemingly Innocent Fall Leaves 

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Everyone knows the havoc that fall leaves can wreak on gutters, but the innocent foliage is deadly for ventilation systems as well. If leaves collect inside the outdoor cabinet that houses the compressor and condenser coil, it can cut off the airflow. A blocked airflow can impair the HVAC system’s efficiency and functionality. Even worse than reduced airflow, leaf build-up can hold enough moisture to damage the unit or cause mold and mildew. The mold from inside the unit can potentially be transferred to the inside of the house. 

If the situation reaches this critical stage, it can become a health concern. Trim the branches above an HVAC unit, periodically rake up leaves, and use a protective cover when not in use to avoid a full unit breakdown, as well as the health risks. However, if leaves and mold are already present in the unit, call to have the unit cleaned and inspected by an HVAC expert.    

Dirt and Debris Can Gum up the Works in Your Unit

Contaminants over time can make their way into an HVAC unit. Although a surface cleaning job is possible without outside help, some dirt and debris removal may be beyond the DIY approach. Service providers have specialized tools designed to dislodge pollutants in ducts and high-powered vacuums to remove all debris. It is essential to remove dirt and debris for air quality reasons. 

With a little bit of moisture, pollutants can create the potential for mold. If a mold problem is severe enough, it may be necessary to replace the HVAC system. Avoid the more serious complications by contacting a service provider for maintenance unit cleaning. 

Heater Maintenance: An Essential Home Duty

A well-functioning heater may seem like a given in a home, but routine maintenance is the only way to ensure that a house doesn’t go without heat during the winter. Do not take the hard-working heater for granted. Many heating problems will go unnoticed if there is not a scheduled check. A routine overview of a unit can catch these problems before they become catastrophes, and in the process, save homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements. 

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As an added bonus for good home-keeping, homeowners that time their maintenance checks around fall can enjoy a boost in energy efficiency from their newly rejuvenated heaters heading into winter. As always, homeowners should contact a local heating company to get a handle on their system before the colder months. 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC is an award-winning family-owned business since 1979 that cares about their customers. With 24/7 available emergency service and flat-rate prices, their priority is the client. Contact them today for reliable HVAC service in the Staten Island area!

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Must-Know Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Toilet Plumbing System

Easy Tips to Make Your Toilet Plumbing Last

Your home plumbing system is vital for the life of your house. Every drain connects at some point under your house, and whether you’re showering, washing your hands, or washing your dishes, you’ll be using some part of your plumbing. It’s essential, as a homeowner, to know how the plumbing in your home works so you can keep it working at optimal performance.

Keeping your plumbing workable and serviceable will extend its life and keep you from needing to replace it. Learn how to keep your plumbing in working order and save your pocketbook while you’re at it. The following tips will let you know how to deal with preventing a clogged toilet, and what to do when you're already in the situation. 

Toilet Cleaning Tablets Are your Friend

toilet cleaning tabletsToilet cleaning tablets can be purchased at major stores such as Walmart or Lowes and usually come in packs of three to five. These blue tablets are placed inside the toilet tank and will clean the water inside your bowl with every flush. They’ll sanitize your bowl, making it easier to clean, and your bathroom will smell fresh.

The tablets are used for numerous flushes, making the cleaner economical and convenient. Each tablet can be used in your tank for one to two weeks, depending on the number of flushes per week. Not only do the cleaning chemicals help improve the look and smell of your toilet, but also they can break down the impurities found in your plumbing, reducing the risk of clogs as well.

This is a simple way to keep your bathroom toilet clean, while also doing something right for the maintenance of your plumbing system.

Avoid Flushing the Wrong Thing

This next tip comes because many products on the market are now labeled as “flushable.” Unfortunately, items such as flushable wipes are not truly flushable. Toilet paper is the only item that should ever be flushed down your toilet and into your plumbing. Any other product, even if labeled “flushable,” can cause backups and clogs in your plumbing.

only flush toilet paper

Once you have a clog in your plumbing, water can back up into the toilet bowl. If clogs get pushed further down in the pipe, clogs can back up your entire plumbing, including your washing machine, kitchen sink, and showers. These clogs can easily be prevented by only flushing toilet paper and throwing everything else away. When in doubt, throw it out. Only toilet paper belongs in the toilet bowl.

Need a Trick? Get a Bucket of Water!

bucket of waterIf you do happen to have a clog, one simple trip to get your pipes unstuck is using a bucket of water to flush. This might sound odd, but it works! Simply fill a bucket of water at least a gallon or two full. After the water in your toilet bowl has gone down, dump the entire bucket of water into the toilet bowl at once.

Be careful that it doesn’t back up onto the floor. The force of the water flowing into the bowl should be enough to push the clog right through your pipes.

If your clog is particularly stuck, it might take several buckets of water to fully unclog your toilet. The next time you need to unclog your toilet, try this trick, and it just might provide you some savings!

Plumbers Who Get It Right

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning has been serving Staten Island, New York since 1979. Offering services for plumbing, heating, cooling, residential, and commercial needs, PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning guarantees accurate services that fit your budget. With award-winning service and on-call emergency response they will get the job done right.

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