Whole Home Humidifiers Are the Key to Balanced Indoor Air

humidifier

Prepare for Fall and Winter with Whole Home Humidifier Installation

Every homeowner wants to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment for their loved ones. As fall and winter make their grand entrance, now is the time to take action and determine what is needed to make it through the winter comfortably and healthy. A whole-home humidifier provides substantial benefits, including comfort, while improving the air quality for everyone in the home. Learn more below. 

Lower Heating Bills with a Home Humidifier

save money Maintaining appropriate humidity levels in a home can help improve the efficiency of the home’s heating system. A whole-house humidifier will maintain appropriate humidity levels so the heater or HVAC unit doesn’t have to work so hard. 

When the air is properly humidified, it can retain heat far better. Ensuring the home isn’t overly dry will help the heat be more efficient, allowing the home to stay warm and cozy at a much lower cost. Most homeowners can turn down the thermostat slightly and still feel just as warm, reducing energy bills even further. 

Balanced Indoor Air Boosts Health

With a whole-house humidifier in place, the indoor air quality is improved. This is one of the best humidifier benefits as it helps reduce illness and sickness from airborne issues. Dry air is very common in the winter, and this can often cause discomfort like these: 

  • Dry throat
  • Cough
  • Dry eyes
  • Irritated sinuses
  • Respiratory infections

However, a whole-home humidifier will maintain the environment with proper humidity levels, reducing dryness and its side effects. A whole-house humidifier installation will also reduce the health discomforts that often come with dry winters. A humidifier system will provide added support in preventing illness and keeping everyone healthy. 

Experience Healthy Skin Even in Winter

sick care Keeping moisture in the air will also help reduce the annoying dry skin many people experience in the winter. Dry air can pull hydration out of the body, and the skin usually feels those effects the most.

Many people experience skin issues during the winter, including these: 

  • Dry patches
  • Chapped lips
  • Skin irritation
  • Extra dry skin

A lotion is a great tool, but why not consider a whole-home humidifier to help combat the issue at its source and reduce the harsh effects that winter dryness and cold can have on the skin and lips? 

Consider installing a whole-house humidifier to protect the air in the home and the home’s residents from the harsh effects of a dry winter. These systems provide an array of humidifier benefits that help the home and the household. Not only can homeowners prioritize comfort, but they can also appreciate a smart investment in a whole-house humidifier. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co is a family-owned and operated HVAC provider that has been providing support for nearly 40 years. They are dedicated to offering fair services at competitive prices and ensuring every customer gets dedicated care to meet their needs. Contact them today for HVAC services and whole-home humidifier installation in Ruston, LA. 

Three Ways to Decorate for Halloween and the Holidays Safely

How to Stay Safe While Being Festive for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is almost here, meaning it’s time to get out the decorations and get festive! However, it’s important that these fun decorations don’t accidentally turn into a real horror show. With a few precautions, homeowners can ensure they stay safe while still being festive. No one wants an electrical mishap, but it can happen if homeowners aren’t careful with their decorations! Read on for three tips to decorate safely with holiday lighting and decor. 

Make Sure Decorations Aren’t Damaged

inspect lights and decorThree Ways To Decorate For Halloween Safely - Albritton ServiceThe first thing on the decoration to-do list should always be inspecting any electrical decorations. Some wear-and-tear is common with older decorations, but it’s important to make sure that there are no exposed wires, damaged cords, damaged bulbs, exposed lighting sockets, or any other major damage to the decorations. 

Even brand-new decorations can sometimes have broken components or manufacturing defects, so checking them before plugging them in is a good idea. Once the decorations have been inspected, homeowners can plug them in and make sure there are no shortages, shorted bulbs, or other issues. 

Plan Ahead for Plugs

With all the fun lights and decorations now available, it can be easy to load up. While having plenty of decorations is fine, it’s important to plan for what decorations will be plugged in and where. The general rule is that only two or three decorations should be plugged into a single outlet. Still, it’s best to ensure the amperage doesn’t exceed the plug’s capacity to avoid an overloaded circuit.

Likewise, it’s best to avoid stringing multiple extension cords together unless they’re made for that purpose. Keep plugged-in decorations near walls, and ensure no cords are in high-traffic areas where they will present a tripping hazard. Finally, it’s good to use UL-rated power strips to protect the decorations when they’re in use. 

Use Common Sense Precautions When Sleeping or Leaving Home

blow out candlesWhen it’s time for bed, homeowners should turn off their decorations. Not only does this conserve energy and lower the utility bill, but it can also negate any accident risk that would otherwise be present with the decorations on. Alternatively, timers can automatically turn decorations off at a certain time. When leaving home for an extended period, it’s always a good idea to keep the decorations off, just in case. 

Candles have always been a big part of Halloween and the holidays, but they pose a fire risk. Luckily, flameless LED candles are widely available now and can be used in Jack-o’-lanterns or holiday displays instead of wax candles. These are cost-effective and safe, although they use small batteries that could pose a health risk if ingested. Known as “button batteries,” they can (and often are) be confused for candy and swallowed, so everyone in the household knows they’re not to be eaten. Those homeowners who choose to use traditional candles should always double-check that they blow out their candles every night before bed to prevent a fire hazard. 

Need help with your holiday lighting? Let us handle your electrical repair needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co has been proudly serving Ruston, LA, since 1982. As a local, family-owned and operated company, they provide the area with electrical safety checks and holiday lighting installation. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for holiday electrical services in Ruston, LA. 

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Why AC Replacement Might Be More Economical Than AC Repair

The Benefits of New Air Conditioner Installation

Even though fall is just around the corner, the summer heat will last for several more weeks. Now is a good time to consider whether the home’s current HVAC unit can withstand subsequent years of extreme heat. Even if a house air conditioner is still working, there may be several reasons to invest in air conditioner replacement rather than waiting for an old unit to give out. This article will explore three advantages of new air conditioning installation.

Benefit #1: Improved Energy Efficiency

save money Though an air conditioner can last for as long as 15 years, it will become less and less efficient throughout its life. Newer models are being developed that are more and more energy efficient. This means utility bills will rise little by little as the air conditioner works to provide the same amount of home comfort. Air conditioning replacement, therefore, can save money on utility bills while having a more consistent temperature in the house.

Benefit #2: No More Repair Bills (or at Least Fewer)

hvac repair While there is the initial investment in air conditioning installation, there are fewer expenses with a newer AC unit. As a unit ages, it will need more frequent attention and repairs, even if it is taken care of through regular professional maintenance. There are also the following additional points.

  • Parts for older units tend to be less available, as they are often obsolete and no longer being made.
  • Because of their scarcity, parts for older units tend to be more expensive. 
  • Air conditioning repairs over the last few years of a unit’s life can add up quickly and may be less expensive to replace.
  • A new unit is less likely to have major problems and need repairs, especially if properly cleaned and maintained. 

Benefit #3: The Ability to Choose a Larger or Smaller Unit

If a home has been renovated or expanded, the original AC unit may not be the right size. It can also happen that the wrong size unit is installed, though this is hopefully not the case. Interestingly, an improperly sized air conditioning unit will show similar problems, whether too big or too small. Here are some of the problems with having a unit that does not fit with the home.

  • High Energy Bills: If the unit has to pull a lot of energy to cool the house, then the energy usage will be very high. An outsized unit may keep the house cool but will do so at an extra cost simply due to its size.
  • Inconsistent Temperatures: Rooms tend not to stay at a consistent temperature with an improperly sized unit. They are either too hot or cold, rarely staying at the optimal temperature for long.
  • Shorter Lifespan: The wrong size unit can mean it is working overtime or working with insufficient space and energy for its needs. This can make the unit wear out more quickly.
  • Short Cycling: This is a problem when the air conditioner does not finish its cooling cycle. This is often due to short or overheating. If it constantly runs or shuts off and on again frequently, the unit may be the wrong size.

About Albritton Service Co

Family-owned and operated Albritton Service Co provides 24/7 service to Ruston, LA, and the surrounding areas. With every service call, homeowners can expect licensed, insured, and courteous technicians who provide honest advice and upfront pricing. Contact them today to learn more about air conditioner installation in Ruston, LA.

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When Is the Right Time to Replace the Electrical Panel?

Signs That Electrical Panel Upgrades Are Needed

One of the most basic things a homeowner must understand about their home is how electricity is distributed. First, the power company provides the power through wires that enter the home through the breaker panel or electrical panel. From there, the power is distributed throughout the home in smaller circuits protected by circuit breakers, powering outlets, and lights. 

Since the electrical panel is the central part of the system, it has to remain in good working condition to provide safe and reliable power. Over time, the electrical panel can start to accrue damage that can allow it to become a fire hazard or, at the very least, a major inconvenience. Here is a quick guide to help homeowners determine if they need a new electrical panel installation or upgrade. 

Fuse Box

fuse boxElectrical panels and circuit breakers are a familiar technology. They have been the component of choice for electrical codes since the 1960s. However, some homes are still operating on the technology that predates electrical panels. In old homes, there may still be a fuse box that serves the function of the electrical panel. Instead of having breakers that trip and can be reset, a fuse box requires that fuses be replaced manually every time a fuse blows. 

Not only is this a hassle, but it can also create unsafe situations because of how they distribute electricity. Instead of protecting dozens of circuits, a fuse box usually protects a much larger load, which can increase the likelihood of overheating and fires. If a fuse box is in the home, it is time to upgrade to a new electrical panel. Not only will it be safer, but it will be more user-friendly.

Corrosion or Outdated Technology 

old electrical panelOld breaker panels that have been in service for a long time can also be outdated and require replacement. If an electrical panel has reached its life expectancy of around 25 to 40 years, it can also be time to replace it. 

It can be difficult to tell exactly how old a breaker box is, but one of the biggest signs it needs to be replaced is rust and corrosion. Corrosion can occur on any part of the breaker panel, even the inside. Homeowners should have an electrician inspect the panel to determine if it should be replaced if any rust, corrosion, or damage is spotted to ensure the panel stays safe and reliable. 

Constantly Tripping Breakers

If circuit breakers trip regularly, it can be a sign that the electrical panel is insufficient for the home’s electrical needs. This can happen when too many appliances or devices are plugged into a single circuit, or when the panel is old and outdated. Circuit breakers trip to prevent electrical fires or damage to appliances.

So, if households are experiencing regular circuit breaker trips, it is important to have an electrician inspect the panel and determine if an upgrade or electrical panel replacement is needed. Upgrading the panel can help to ensure that a home’s electrical system is safe and can handle the demands of modern appliances and devices.

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co makes homes comfortable and safe with electrical service and HVAC repairs and installations. Their highly-rated service is available to home and business owners. Call today for electrical panel replacement or upgrades in Ruston, LA. 

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Why Pay for AC Maintenance?

Benefits of Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance

Air conditioners cost owners a lot of money throughout their lifespan. From the high cost of installation to the monthly utility bills, culminating in periodic repair bills, it is important that people know how to properly care for their heating and cooling units to keep control of their expenses. Too often, owners are completely in the dark regarding the best practices to maximize the performance and minimize the cost of ownership for their HVAC systems. 

Routine AC maintenance is probably the best thing owners can do to protect their air conditioners. The following list, provided by local HVAC experts, comprises the benefits of air conditioner maintenance. By paying for annual air conditioner maintenance, owners can improve energy efficiency, lower the frequency of repairs, and lengthen the lifespan of cooling equipment, resulting in massive savings for the owner. 

Improved Energy Efficiency

save money During an air conditioner’s lifespan, the major costs associated with it can be divided into upfront costs, repair costs, and operating costs. When it’s all said and done, one category will dwarf the others: operating costs. Every month, the air conditioner tallies up high bills that must be paid. Since the monthly bills are manageable, it is easy to forget how much money an owner will spend to keep the home cool over the unit’s lifespan. 

To keep these bills low, owners must pursue a path of energy efficiency. While there are plenty of changes owners can make around the home to make it more efficient, the air conditioner’s efficiency is key. The best way to protect the AC efficiency is with annual AC maintenance. During maintenance, technicians will inspect, clean, and lubricate the unit to ensure it works optimally. Air filter replacement is also a part of this process and should be taken care of by the owner at least four times per year. With these two tasks, owners can notice a dramatic reduction in cooling bills. 

Save Money With Fewer Repairs 

Repair costs will likely be the second-highest cost of ownership for an air conditioner. AC repairs are expensive, and when there are emergencies, the costs can skyrocket. To prevent these costs, owners should focus on prevention rather than cures. The best way to prevent repairs is to give AC technicians a chance every spring to inspect the system for potential problems. Being preemptive allows contractors to catch problems early, so they don’t cost as much to repair. Additionally, by lessening the effects of wear and tear, fewer problems will result. 

Increase the Lifespan 

hvac The final cost of ownership for air containers is the cost of AC installation. While this can cost tens of thousands of dollars, it is a one-time rather than a recurring charge. Still, owners would do well to put off this expenditure as long as possible. 

Air conditioning maintenance is proven to increase an AC’s lifespan. With good routine maintenance, owners will enjoy lower bills and fewer repairs. Because the system has less total damage, it can last years longer than expected. Reducing all three costs makes it easy to see why paying for professional AC maintenance is a great choice. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co handles any heating, cooling, or electrical problem home and business owners can throw. With qualified teams and guaranteed service, owners can be confident they are getting service from the best. Call today for AC maintenance service in Ruston, LA. 

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The Secret to Electrical Safety

Prevention Is Key

Electrical Safety Month is designed to keep households safe regardless of a home’s size. Apartments, mobile homes, and multi-story houses are vulnerable to electrical fires without proper preventative strategies. Homeowners are encouraged to pay attention to not only the inside circuitry but their outlets as well. 

A Clean Outlet

outletHaving a “clean outlet” does not include scrubbing. A clean outlet simply means no more than two cords are plugged in at one time. Since there are different kinds of outlets, the amount of voltage available may vary. 

A 110-volt outlet is the most common outlet used in houses and apartments today. Depending on the size of the breaker, each outlet may have 15 or 20 amps. A 15-amp outlet can power most electrical appliances, including microwaves and TV sets. In older homes, the outlets are less likely to power as many devices.

Homes built before 1960 often have two-pronged outlets. If homeowners cannot upgrade to a three-pronged outlet, they should be mindful of how many devices are connected simultaneously. Power strips should be avoided, and no more than two low-voltage appliances should be plugged into the same outlet. An overloaded circuit can cause power outages and house fires.

The home’s overall circuitry is strained when too much power is pulled from the outlet. If the circuits are used too often, the wires are known to overheat and melt. Electrical fires most commonly start with overloaded outlets with too many high-powered devices. To be safe, only use one or two appliances per outlet.

How To Childproof Outlets

outletSpecialized covers can be purchased online to prevent small children from sticking particles into electrical outlets. There are two main options: plastic covering and tamper-resistant outlets.

Plastic outlets are designed to snap over the outlet when not used. They are usually used in rooms where fewer electrical appliances are needed. Tamper-resistant plates look identical to regular outlets, but they include shutters on both slots in the outlet. Instead of a full cover that needs to be removed for power, an internal spring is used to open and close each shutter.

Most plastic outlet covers are easy to install. They do not require an electrician or specialized hardware. Tamper-resistant plates are a little more difficult. If homeowners are not familiar with the local building codes, this can create safety issues in the future. A professional electrician can childproof electrical outlets in under an hour. 

When To Call For Help

Electrical safety should be every homeowner’s top priority, but many people need to learn the difference between a simple electrical problem and an electrical hazard. Although the warning signs may seem harmless, many of these symptoms can cause electrical fires. 

If electrical appliances are warm to the touch, the electrical system works too hard to power each device. Sometimes, this can be fixed by unplugging extra cords. It is recommended that you immediately disconnect all devices from the outlet before calling an electrician to assess the damage.

Ceiling lights and table lamps should provide consistent lighting. If homeowners notice flickering or dimming, this is not caused by the bulb. Buzzing sounds that accompany strange lighting are usually a sign that the electrical system is under considerable strain and will need to be quickly repaired to avoid further damage to the circuitry. 

Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co has served residents of Ruston, LA, for over 25 years. Their technicians always arrive on time, offer honest advice and transparent pricing, and stand behind all their work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about their 24/7 electrical services, call Albritton Service Co today. 

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3 Signs of an AC Refrigerant Leak

HVAC technician brazing a refrigerant line on an outdoor air conditioner condenser unit

How To Tell When the Air Conditioner Is Leaking Refrigerant

Of all the possible problems that can occur with an air conditioning system, a refrigerant leak is one of the most serious. Not only will it prevent the AC from working properly, but more importantly, it can be very harmful to the health of everyone in the home and the environment. 

Air conditioner refrigerant is a crucial part of the cooling process, but it also contains toxic chemicals that can cause poisoning and degrade the ozone layer. That’s why refrigerant leaks should be dealt with as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, leaks can be hard to detect since AC refrigerant is invisible, tasteless, and odorless. So here are a few common indicators of a refrigerant leak that every homeowner should know!

Ice on the Evaporator Coils

frozen evaporator coilsOne of the most common signs of a refrigerant leak is if the evaporator coils are frozen. The evaporator coils in the indoor air handler unit are responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air. If there’s not enough refrigerant flowing through the coils, they won’t be able to absorb and carry away heat as effectively. As a result, they can get too cold, and the condensation that forms on them can cause them to freeze. As the AC continues to run, a thick layer of ice can form over the coils.

A frozen evaporator coil can occur for a few other reasons (excessive dirt on the coil, a faulty blower, a dirty air filter, etc.). Still, considering how dangerous a refrigerant leak is, it’s always best to get this issue diagnosed by a professional if homeowners notice it. One clue that the coils are frozen is if the AC unit leaks water or there’s a puddle under the unit from the ice melting.

The Home Isn’t Getting Cool Enough

Another possible sign of a refrigerant leak is if the AC isn’t cooling properly. Warm air may be coming from the vents, or the AC may run continuously for a very long time. In either case, the correct temperature may only be barely maintained, or it may never reach the desired temperature on the thermostat.

Air conditioning refrigerant’s job is to carry heat energy from the evaporator coils to the condenser coils in the outdoor unit, where that energy is released. If there’s a refrigerant leak anywhere in the system, that cycle will be hindered, and the AC won’t be able to cool as effectively. In many cases, if the AC isn’t cooling properly due to a refrigerant leak, homeowners may find that the evaporator coils are also frozen – these issues tend to go hand in hand.

In some cases, the house may seem to stay cool enough, but the HVAC system has to work harder to keep it at the right temperature, which can raise energy bills. So, if homeowners notice unexpected increases in their energy bills, it may indicate a refrigerant leak or some other issue with the AC.

Strange Noises Coming From the AC Unit

sounds Finally, if homeowners notice strange sounds from the indoor air handler, the outdoor condenser unit, or the copper refrigerant lines running between them, it may indicate a leak.

These sounds include hissing, gurgling, or bubbling as the pressurized refrigerant escapes from the lines. Of course, if homeowners notice these, they should resist the urge to investigate further, as ingestion or inhalation of AC refrigerant can be deadly.

There are store-bought refrigerant leak detectors that homeowners can use, but again, diagnosing the issue can be extremely dangerous. So, in general, it’s best to call a qualified professional to diagnose the issue and pinpoint its source safely and quickly. 

Refrigerant leaks can occur for various reasons, from corrosion and loose pipe fittings to improper installation and undetected factory defects. So once the leak is found, only a trained pro will be able to repair it correctly to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the household!

About Albritton Service Co

The award-winning Albritton Service Co has been the go-to resource for all of Ruston’s HVAC and electrical service needs since 1982. Their clean, punctual technicians are all licensed, insured, drug-tested, and background-checked for every customer’s safety and peace of mind. They offer up-front pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. So there’s no one better to call for AC refrigerant leak detection and repair in Ruston, LA!

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Green-Up the Home With LED Lighting Installation and Retrofitting

LED Lights Can Save Money and Energy in the Home

It’s no secret that LED lights are better than incandescent lights in all the ways that matter. However, two of the most impactful benefits homeowners should know are that they use significantly less energy and last significantly longer. Those two factors alone can be enough for many homeowners to turn to LED lights to save money and use less energy. But this isn’t always as easy as buying LED bulbs at the store. This is where LED retrofitting comes into play.

What Does an LED Retrofit Entail?

led lightingTo experience the full benefit of energy-saving LED lights, the fixtures in the home that were designed for fluorescent or incandescent lights need to be updated. There are two ways to do this: retrofitting or replacing. Replacing existing lighting fixtures with LED fixtures can be costly, which is why many homeowners prefer retrofitting. Instead of replacing all the fixtures, they can simply be made to work with LED lights for maximum benefit. 

However, there are several factors that homeowners should consider before deciding. Some fixtures aren’t ideal for retrofitting and need to be replaced, while others are ideal for an LED retrofit. To determine which is best, homeowners should contact a professional electrician to inspect their fixtures and discuss their options. 

The Upside of LED Lights

save money Several benefits come along with LED lights. Two of them have already been mentioned in this article: they use less energy and last longer. But what about specifics? Well, LED lights use approximately 75% less energy than their incandescent counterparts. They can also last up to 25 times longer! No more replacing bulbs every few months when the LEDs are being used. This means that the energy savings are significant. Not only can this save homeowners money, but it can also reduce their carbon footprint.

To go further, homeowners can install dimmers to work with their LED lights. With a dimmer, it’s possible to reduce the bulb’s brightness, which can further reduce the energy it uses while extending its lifespan. 

What to Know Before the Switch to LED

When deciding between replacing or retrofitting, homeowners should know two factors. The first is all about options. Many LEDs have been designed to be compatible with existing lighting fixtures, but certainly not all. This can reduce homeowners’ choice when it comes to lighting in their homes. Conversely, replacing old fixtures with LED fixtures can give homeowners access to all the lights on the market, allowing them to take control of their home’s lighting. 

Secondly, LED dimmers may not be compatible with incandescent or fluorescent fixtures. Homeowners who wish to install dimmers may need to replace their existing fixtures with LED fixtures. This is why it’s always a good idea to talk to an electrician before deciding on a specific course of action. They can help figure out which option is best for the home and its inhabitants. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co has been proudly serving Ruston, LA, since 1982. Their trustworthy technicians provide 24/7 emergency service and are fully licensed and insured. They are an award-winning family-owned and operated company. Contact them today for LED retrofitting or lighting installation in Ruston, LA. 

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What Should You Know About Heat Pumps?

All About Heat Pumps

Heat pump technology has been around for quite some time now. Still, it is only fairly recently that the technology is finally getting traction and becoming a popular alternative in home appliances. Invented in the 1850s, the heat pump system has been used in homes since the 1960s, but it is currently experiencing a renaissance because of its potential cost savings and environmentally friendly benefits backed by government policy incentives.

It’s relatively easy to see why policies are being created to get behind heat pumps. Because heat pumps are powered by electricity, they significantly cut down carbon emissions by about 75 percent, compared with a regular gas furnace. Emissions are reduced even further if the source of the electricity that powers it is generated by clean sources such as wind, solar, and even hydroelectric dams.

Heat pumps are also more energy efficient, using up less power to do the same work as a regular gas furnace, creating more savings in their monthly energy bill for homeowners who opt for heat pump installation. But how exactly do heat pumps work, and how do they achieve the energy efficiency and eco-friendliness they often touted for?

A Heat Pump Explained

Simply put, heat pumps transfer heat from a cool space to a warm space using a refrigerant. The refrigerant, which is usually significantly colder than outside temperatures even during the winter, allows it to absorb heat from outside and bring that heat indoors. The same idea works to allow heat pumps to cool indoor spaces during the summer, with the refrigerant absorbing the heat from inside and dispersing outside, allowing the refrigerant to cool down indoor spaces. 

This versatility of switching the same system from heating to cooling and vice versa is one of the biggest advantages of a heat pump. It makes it more energy-efficient and more flexible, allowing for a vast application to many different heating and cooling systems such as a ducted heat pump, a ductless heat pump, or a mini split heat pump. All three are examples of heating and cooling systems with heat pumps at the very core of their operations.

How Heat Pump Installation Can Be Beneficial

benefitsThe increasing popularity of heat pumps can be attributed not just to how much further the technology has advanced, allowing it to become much more sophisticated than its predecessors, but also to the many benefits it can provide every homeowner who opts to have this system installed in their home. These benefits include lower operational costs and a decreased utility bill, safer combustion system alternatives, reduced carbon emissions, greater heating efficiency, and freedom from fuel storage or delivery. 

When To Get Heat Pump Repair

signsA properly maintained heat pump can last between 10 and 20 years. Still, even with a rigid maintenance schedule, an aging heat pump will begin to experience the following problems that may require repair:

  • A blown motor
  • Broken thermostat
  • Malfunctioning starter capacity
  • Heat pump coils that are frozen
  • Low levels of refrigerant
  • Mechanical issues
  • Problems with the circuit breaker

Any one of these issues warrants a visit from a licensed HVAC technician, who can help assess the damage and work with homeowners to figure out whether the heat pump can be fixed or if the costs for repair are greater than a replacement, in which case, the latter is the way to go.

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co is a trusted HVAC solutions provider in Ruston and surrounding neighborhoods and communities. This family-owned and operated company has been offering a full range of heating, cooling, and electrical services since 1982 and has become one of the most reliable providers in the region. They have a team of trustworthy technicians who are licensed and insured, bringing their knowledge, skills, and expertise to every situation, even for 24/7 emergency services. Call them today for HVAC service in Ruston, LA.

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Keep the Home Safe in 2024 With Electrical Safety Checks

How Electrical Safety Inspections Can Help This Year 

It’s hard to believe, but it is already time to start planning for success in 2024. The new year brings a fresh start, making it hard not to be motivated. With that in mind, homeowners everywhere are looking for ways to invest in their homes in 2024. 

The electrical system in the home is probably the most important utility the home has to offer. Without reliable electricity, there is no way for lighting, climate control, or food safety. If the electrical system is damaged, it can also be a liability for the home itself. This year, protect the home and those in it by thinking ahead. With electrical inspections from local experts, homes will stay safer and more efficient. Here is a quick guide to electrical inspections. 

Steps for Electrical Safety Inspections 

The electrical system may be the most neglected part of the home. Modifications are generally skipped during renovations because of costs, so it is also likely getting close to being outdated. With the wear and tear of daily use, substantial damage can occur, and the owner may not even be aware of it. 

Electrical inspections are a great way to keep an eye on things. Experts recommend that electrical safety inspections be done every three to five years. During a visit, an expert will: 

  • Examine outlets for signs of arcs or fires
  • Test GFCI and AFCI outlets
  • Inspect wiring
  • Check breakers and appliances
  • Look for loose switches or components

When to Schedule Electrical Safety Checks 

home Under normal circumstances, electrical inspections don’t need to be done annually. Every few years is fine, especially for homes under 50 years old or with updated copper wiring. Routine checks every few years can stave off problems and make things by keeping things up to date. Routinely inspected homes are always safer and have fewer problems than homes where electrical inspections are skipped. 

There are times when electrical inspections should be called for apart from the scheduled visits. For example, when buying or selling a home, electrical inspections on behalf of the buyer and seller can go a long way toward establishing the home’s value and giving the buyer peace of mind. Often, insurance companies will require it before coverage can begin. Additionally, scheduling electrical inspections during major renovations can be an easy way to get it out of the way while wiring is exposed for repairs. 

Benefits of Routine Electrical Inspections 

save money While electrical inspections are easily forgotten, the benefits should help everyone remember them. The main benefits of electrical safety inspections are: 

  • Safety: Electricity carries risks by its very nature. Allowing a professional to inspect the system can reduce the risk of shocks and fires. 
  • Reliability: A homeowner’s job is much easier when everything in the home works properly. Professional inspections do their part to ensure the electrical system is problem-free. 
  • Efficiency: Inspections ensure that the proper amount of power is used and none is wasted. This promotes efficiency and can help keep power bills under control. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co is a family-owned electrical service that cares about others. They can help every home stay safe and efficient by ensuring reliability. Call today for fast electrical repairs and inspections in Ruston, LA. 

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