Tuesday, December 17, 2013

From our Family to Yours: Happy Holidays from Main Street Heating and Cooling!


It seems like the holiday shopping “season” comes earlier and earlier each year.  From Black Friday to Cyber Monday the expectations to start buying gifts as soon as possible has become the norm.    But this year the team at Main Street Heating and Cooling is focusing on the things that you can’t put a price tag on: Our traditions. 

Every family has their own traditions—the small rituals that keep us grounded and remind us that the holiday season is about being thankful for the wonderful blessings in our lives.  These traditions, many of which have been with us since we were kids, are the thoughtful reminders that people rather than presents are the better meaning of the holidays.

My family traditions started with storytelling.  Every season our dad would read the story of the birth of Christ out of Luke hand written on a wood and leather scroll that my oldest brother made (he always was a little bit of an overachiever and we love him for it!).  Our stockings always had peanuts and oranges in them.  No idea how that started but over time it didn’t matter—it was part of how we “did” the holidays together.  As an adult and a father I look back on those times differently than I did as a child.  The simplicity of something as seemingly easy as an orange or a handful of peanuts is a symbol of caring, of giving, of love.  These are the things that Brent and I are carrying over to our own families these days.

As a father I want my children to also understand the importance of simple giving.  My wife always makes sure that we support a family in need during the holidays.  We know that we are incredibly fortunate in our lives and feel it’s equally important that our children appreciate not only their blessings but the significance of helping those who are less fortunate.  We also make sure to open our home to friends who’s family and loved ones live far away.  For us, the spirit of giving extends beyond the gifts under the tree (which, by the way, we open Christmas eve).  I can’t say enough about the importance that helping others plays in our lives.

Of course, the holiday season can’t be complete without a visit to our parents.  Over the years I’ve been perfecting a chocolate cheesecake recipe that’s become my “go to” contribution to our holiday dinner.  Somehow, mysteriously, there’s always a piece of cheesecake missing by the time we’re ready to head over to the in-laws.  My kids deny knowing who the culprit is…and then smile.  It cracks us all up.

Over the years, I’ve strived to teach my children that the holiday season is about so much more than receiving gifts.  It’s about giving gifts.  And the gifts that I want them to remember, the traditions that I want them to understand, are that we—all of us—can give of ourselves in better and richer ways all year long.  The season of giving is something that should never be confined by a few weeks on a calendar.  It’s something that should be part of who we are and what we do all year long.  Traditions are reminders of these things.  Small gestures that put a smile on our face or make us laugh can be magnified many time over.  All it takes is an open heart, a warm smile, and little acts of kindness.


Our traditions have been part of my family for years.  It’s a privilege to share them with you.  So from my family to yours, and with the warmest wishes from the Main Street Heating and Cooling family, we wish you a fantastic holiday season.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Movember Madness and a Helping Those in Need

November has been an incredible month for the team at Main Street Heating and Cooling. First, we want to say “thank you” to the friends and clients who continually support our work as Utah’s heating, air conditioning, and service leader. We’re deeply grateful. Also, we want to thank the many people who have supported Main Street Movember and have generously donated to our food bank outreach. We also want to send out best thoughts and wishes to #SFBatkid, Miles Scott.

Like millions of people across the country we were touched by Miles, the San Francisco “Bat Kid” and his amazing adventures. Thanks to the Make-a-Wish foundation we watched a city, then a nation, make Miles’ dream of saving Gotham come true. It was a touching, human reminder that we all play small roles in helping each other live better lives. Go get ‘em Miles!

As you can see by the picture, Movember has turned in to Beardvember here at Main Street. It’s not exactly by the Movember rules, but Brent’s wife sort of put her foot down on his handlebar moustache. Plus, we didn’t think that Brent could actually grow a full beard. Turns out we were wrong about the beard but very right about the importance of supporting the Movember Movement. Men from around the world are proudly sharing their “Mo’s” in order to bring funding and awareness to men’s health issues. Main Street Heating and Cooling is equally proud to be involved and support this outstanding moustache movement. Can’t say that Brent’s wife is totally on board yet but there’s always 2014!

Finally, Main Street Heating and Cooling is contributing to a local food bank. Helping people feel comfortable in their homes is what we do as a business. But what if the people living in the homes are going hungry? According to a 2012 study, 15.8% or nearly one in six Utah households suffer from food hardships. The number of Utah families requiring food assistance has increased 269%. Food hardships have a ripple effect ranging from health problems to lost time at work to poor academic performance. This year Main Street Heating and Cooling is supporting the South Valley Food Bank. Please give us a call or send us an email if you’d like to learn how to help us ensure that no family goes hungry this holiday season.

So as we head towards Thanksgiving, everyone here at Main Street Heating and Cooling wishes you, your family, and your loved ones a fantastic Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Move Over for Movember!!

Look out everyone! This November Doug and Brent are growing moustaches in Movember. Movember is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for some of the most common health problems men face today. Plus, moustaches are, well, manly (and Brent needs a little more “manly”). Never heard of Movember? Then here’s why Main Street Heating and Cooling is a very proud supporter:

The Movember Movement began in 2003 as a fun way to raise awareness about the very real and preventable threats that prostate and testicular cancer pose for men. The idea was simple: grow a moustache as an easy way to make a statement, tell a few friends, and use business to support a great cause. In 2003 30 “Mo Bros” styled that hair above the lip and launched Movember. Now, 10 years later, Movember has become a truly global phenomenon. In 2012 Movember raised over 147 million dollars in donations—all of which are given directly to organizations committed to men’s health. 1,270,152 men registered as “Mo Bros” and grew some of the most well groomed facial hair on the planet. Finally, Movember was ranked in the Top 100 NGOs based on its positive impact on health awareness, innovation, and sustainability. What began as a clever way to say “we care” has become a powerhouse.

Our team at Main Street Heating and Cooling was drawn to the Movember Movement because our business shares many of the same values as the Movember Movement itself:

  • Fun. We love our work and we love our customers. We believe that we can successfully combine a fantastic heating and cooling business with a totally positive experience for our customers. Replacing or servicing a heating or cooling system doesn’t have to be a drag. 
  • Accountability. Main Street and Heating and Cooling is built on a loyal following. We’re accountable to our customers for great feedback and continued support. 
  • Caring. Ever had one of our cookie bags? Give us a call. Trust us on this one. Our business grows because our customers know we care. 
  • Humble. We’re a new company with an old soul. Traditional values keep us grounded and they have since day one. 
  • Innovative. Main Street Heating and Cooling recommends products that are intelligently designed for the modern lifestyle. 
  • Remarkable Experience. The most important part of our job is making sure our customers feel that they’ve been treated to a superior service experience. 
  • Change Agents. We didn’t set out to build a run-of-the-mill heating, cooling, and service company. We set out to set a new standard in the HVAC industry. We’re feeling pretty good about our start. 
Main Street Heating and Cooling is more than simply an HVAC company. We know that business can be a force of positive change and assistance for others. If growing a moustache is a simple way to say “We care” then we’re all in. Welcome to Movember!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

A Bad Installation Looks Like…


Having a heating or cooling system put in is an important investment in your health and comfort. That’s why it’s so very vital that such systems are put in place properly and efficiently.


What’s the importance of proper installation?

The majority of added energy bill costs come from poor or sub-par performance of your HVAC system. While tweaks and repairs to the system may be necessary over time, a bad installation will have you doomed from the start.

Energy-efficient systems are only cost effective if they operate as intended. A poor installation may cause such a system to operate in an even more expensive manner.

Likewise, an improper installation can be a hidden danger to your health and well-being. Misaligned duct-work can come apart unexpectedly, exposed wire can pose a potential fire hazard, and chemical residue can be abrasive and toxic to children or pets.


What to look out for.

There are some red flags that your system has not been put in place correctly, which most of the time will become apparent immediately following a system installation. Keep an eye out for the following;
  • Liquid gathering at the bottom of the unit
  • Irregular noises – high pressured air or gas escaping from a crack or rupture
  • Exposed wiring, especially near ground level
  • Noticeable and persistent odor
  • Blatant misalignment of the HVAC unit or its constituents
Check with your HVAC specialist if your newly installed system exhibits any of these characteristics.


What’s a Homeowner to do?

While the average homeowner will most likely not be able to remedy a poor installation (nor should they attempt to), there are several steps they can undertake to be proactive.

Choose a NATE-certified HVAC company – In the HVACR industry, this certification is a true standard of quality. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is the nation’s largest non-profit organization in the industry; they rigorously test members to ensure service knowledge of the highest caliber.

Ask Questions - It helps to make sure you know what to expect after your installation is finished. Are there any particular noises that you should expect to hear? When should I schedule my next appointment? Keep yourself in the know, be proactive, and let your specialist know if you need clarification.

Monitor and Maintain – Keep track of your household’s energy bills and watch out for any drastic fluctuation, which may be indicative of a system malfunction.

Moving forward, plan to have an HVAC specialist visit twice annually; not only to make sure your system is ready for the new temperate season but also to detect any subtle defects or damage that may be affecting your energy costs.

It’s a smart move to stick with the same HVAC outfit throughout, as they will be able to perform the most efficient inspection and

Scheduling an inspection has never been easier. If you’re in the Salt Lake County area, give us a call!


Friday, September 20, 2013

The 5 Maintenance Checks You Need to Prepare for Winter

The changing seasons are a time for fresh starts, transitions, and preparation. As homeowners start battening down the hatches for the colder months, you can get a head start by making sure these five areas are prepped and ready.

Air Filter Upgrade.

While it should be changed every month, your home’s air filter should be changed and ready for when you begin using your heating system. A clogged air filter will cause your HVAC system to use more energy, resulting in an unnecessary increase in your heating bill. If you want to be proactive, you can even buy in bulk and avoid later trekking through the elements.

Closed Door Policy.

Also of vital importance is accounting for every entryway and open source for the outdoors to make its way inside. Windows, doorways, roof access and basement entries, areas where walls meet: all need to be properly adjusted and sealed to ensure that no wasted circulation occurs.

An open path through the attic can let as much heat escape as a wide-open window, so be certain that your home’s fortification is thorough.

Out with the Cold, In with the Humidity.

Restarting a heating system after enjoying the summer months can quickly create a dry environment indoors. A humidifier can alleviate the pangs of this transition, thwart static buildup in your home, and even provide some additional health benefits for your air and complexion. It’s important to ensure that your humidifier unit is properly cleaned and ready to reinitiate, so take the proper steps to make sure it’s in working order.

If you’ve never thought about having a humidifier, there are a number of options available to you—from single room units to house-wide humidifying units that provide the most long-term benefit.

All Clear Outdoors
.

An often-overlooked obstacle that can hinder savings is built up debris or foliage on or around your outdoor HVAC unit. Take the proper steps to clear the brush and buildup appropriately.

This is something best done while the weather is still temperate and the last thing you’ll want to worry about in the thick of winter. Make certain that the unit remains unobstructed and prevent any potential threats by trimming any nearby foliage.

Expert Opinion.

Before the increased demand hits, it’s in your best interest to have a trained HVAC specialist inspect your entire system to make sure it’s in fully operational. He or she will be able to provide you with the best practical advice for enjoying controlled-climate comfort during the winter while simultaneously saving wherever possible. Your specialist will also be able to perform a number of these checks if need be.

Unforeseen emergencies do happen, but having these preparations in place will help to minimize or even eliminate the threat of them occurring. For those unforeseeable worst-case scenarios, just know that emergency HVAC services do exist.

Monday, August 19, 2013

Preparing Your Home for Fall

As summer fades and fall looms, it’s the perfect time for Salt Lake City residents to prepare their property for the season’s unpredictable weather conditions. The following checklist is a handy reference that will have you ready for autumn in no time.

Take care of the gutters. As your gutters collect piles of summer debris, it’s easy for clogs to form. Remove twigs, leaves and other materials from your gutters and flush them with a hose. Remember basic ladder safety and never do this unless someone else is home!

Winterize outdoor faucets. When it’s time to shut off the sprinklers, it’s a good idea to remove hoses from their spigots and drain outdoor pipes so you don’t face the cost and inconvenience of water damage.

Clean up the fireplace. Clear old logs and debris from the hearth, and hire a professional to remove last year’s ashes and soot from inside your chimney. Keeping your chimney maintained prevents dangerous particulates from entering your home—and reduces the risk of structural fires.

Keep the cold weather outside. Weather stripping windows and doors keeps you cozy while lowering utility bills. Look for light and feel for air around openings and outlets. To insulate your home from drafts, choose from a variety of foam, vinyl or felt weather stripping (depending upon the application). Aging homes may also require window replacement to improve comfort and lower energy use. This can be a costly investment, so consider replacing a few at a time, starting with main living areas.

Prioritize family safety. Each year, it is a good idea to have a family meeting to go over safety measures, fire escape routes, and disaster preparation. This is also an ideal time to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. Visit the FEMA website or Be Ready Utah for comprehensive information about being prepared for weather, natural disasters, and other unexpected circumstances.

Maintain your heating system. We have compiled a list of do-it-yourself tasks that will keep your HVAC system running safely and comfortably, year round. In addition, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection one to two times per year. HVAC inspections are not a gimmick. Studies show that well-maintained furnaces and heat pumps last longer and run more efficiently than overlooked systems. Your HVAC technician will inspect and clean your equipment, change filters, and alert you to potential safety hazards. Reputable HVAC companies often provide coupons and promotions for system winterization, so this is an affordable investment you can’t afford to neglect.

To schedule a seasonal inspection for your home comfort system, or to inquire about fall specials and HVAC winterization services, call 801.930.5151 or email our team of skilled technicians today!

Monday, July 15, 2013

Look for the ENERGY STAR Logo When Purchasing New Cooling Equipment

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner this summer, one way to guarantee strong performance and sustained savings is to insist on equipment that bears the ENERGY STAR logo. The ENERGY STAR program is mandated by the federal government, and gives consumers a quick and easy way to identify appliances that help them save both money and energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR logo, a product must offer all the performance features expected by consumers, along with enhanced energy efficiency. Certified appliances must be at least 10 percent more efficient than dictated by government requirements, and they must use non-proprietary technologies available through multiple manufacturers to ensure consumers have choice.

While qualified products typically cost slightly more than their conventional counterparts, consumers must be able to recoup the difference in price through energy savings. The extra up-front investment in ENERGY STAR-rated home heating and cooling equipment is worth it, since you stand to save significantly over the life of your new equipment in the form of sustained savings on your utility bills. It’s always a wise idea to invest a little extra in a product which will dramatically reduce your household energy consumption.

All products bearing the ENERGY STAR logo have been independently tested to verify performance claims and capabilities. You can find the ENERGY STAR symbol on a complete range of HVAC products and equipment, including furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps and water heaters. To maximize the efficiency benefits, be sure to have your new equipment installed by a reliable contractor. This ensures it will perform at peak efficiency, giving your energy and cost savings an added boost.

At Main Street Heating & Cooling, we are pleased to offer our customers a comprehensive range of ENERGY STAR-certified heating and cooling equipment. We’re committed to protecting the environment while helping our customers save money on their home comfort needs, so if the time has come for you to upgrade your HVAC equipment, we’re happy to help you choose an energy-efficient product to meet your needs. To learn more about our ENERGY STAR-rated heating and cooling equipment, contact our team today!

Monday, June 17, 2013

The Importance of Choosing a NATE-Certified HVAC Contractor

Choosing a contractor with North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is an easy way to take the guesswork out of hiring an HVAC professional. The NATE program is an industry initiative designed to give consumers a reliable way to find HVAC contractors with elite training and skills. It is an optional designation that goes above and beyond regular technician licensing requirements, providing training and testing programs that raise the bar of excellence to an even higher level.

The NATE program was established in 1997, and it has grown to become the largest independent credentialing organization in the American HVAC industry. HVAC professionals can only earn NATE certification by completing rigorous, demanding examinations which test their knowledge of both core and advanced-level concepts in system design, maintenance, and repair. To maintain their certification, technicians must also complete 60 hours of continuing education in their chosen specialization and be reexamined every five years.

When you choose a NATE-certified contractor, you’ll benefit in several important ways. First, and most importantly, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job will be done right the first time. You will also enjoy improved performance from your home heating and cooling equipment, because NATE-certified contractors use cutting-edge techniques to ensure your system runs at peak efficiency. This is a two-part advantage: first, it extends the life of your HVAC equipment, helping you avoid costly repairs and delaying the need for system replacement. Second, it helps keep your home heating and cooling costs in check, as equipment optimized for efficiency uses less energy, and that translates into savings on burgeoning energy bills.

Additional NATE certification benefits include: 

  • Improved safety. NATE-certified technicians apply their expertise to safely eliminate dangerous combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide from your home. They also ensure all necessary electrical connections are safe and secure. 
  • Better indoor air quality. By leveraging their comprehensive knowledge of air balance, air infiltration and ductwork, NATE-certified professionals help keep your indoor air clean and healthy. 
  • Boosted system performance. NATE-certified system installations provide even levels of heating and cooling throughout your home, and help your HVAC equipment perform at peak manufacturer specifications. 

We at Main Street Heating & Cooling are proud participants in the NATE program, and we’re proud to offer our elite expertise to valued customers throughout the Salt Lake City area. We’re here to meet all your home comfort needs, and we provide prompt, value-added service at highly competitive rates. Contact us this summer for cooling repairs, high-efficiency system replacements and routine maintenance plans!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Dos and Don’ts of Hiring an HVAC Contractor

For many homeowners, hiring an HVAC contractor is a process fraught with worry and second-guessing. Everyone’s heard horror stories of contractors who did shoddy work, charged exorbitant prices, or employed rude or unskilled technicians. The problem is that every contractor claims to be consumer-friendly, fair, and reputable. How are you to separate the good apples from the bad?

The answer: know what to do and what not to do when hiring an HVAC contractor.

The Dos of Hiring an HVAC Contractor

These approaches should be at the top of your “do” list:
  • Ask questions. Find out how long the company has been in business, ask for their licensing and insurance information, and check to see if there are any complaints on file at your local Better Business Bureau office. One or two complaints aren’t much to worry about, but more than that—and you’re probably better off giving your business to someone else. 
  • Gather referrals. Ask the contractor for multiple referrals from satisfied past customers. Follow up. Contact the referrals. Ask if they were pleased with the contractor’s work, and whether the company finished on time for the price they quoted. 

The Don’ts of Hiring and HVAC Contractor 

Next, make sure you “don’t” do these things:
  • Make an upfront payment. Contractors that require upfront payments tend to be more interested in your money than they are in doing a good job. It’s also difficult to get your money back if you’re not satisfied with the work. 
  • Choose a company that uses subcontractors. This is a red flag, as the contractor can later claim they are not responsible for the subcontractor’s work if you’re not happy—and you’ll have little recourse available. 
  • Hire someone who won’t give references. There is no legitimate reason that a reputable HVAC contractor would not be able to give you a referral to a satisfied past customer. If the contractor hems and haws, or refuses to give references, don’t hire them
At Main Street Heating & Cooling, we provide timely service, friendly and knowledgeable staff, budget-friendly solutions, and the very best products. Our knowledgeable technicians are best-in-class, and we’re pleased to offer a 100-percent satisfaction guarantee with all our work. To schedule service, learn more about our team or inquire about a cooling tune-up before summer is in full gear, contact us. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Salt Lake County and the surrounding area.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Protect Your HVAC System Warranties with Regular Maintenance

One of the most common ways homeowners invalidate their HVAC system warranties is by performing their own equipment installations. Many furnace and air conditioner manufacturers require products to be professionally installed in order to honor their warranties. However, there are usually other stipulations in the fine print that many people are not aware of: warranty protections can also be invalidated if you fail to properly service and maintain your equipment.

Experts recommend getting your furnace and air conditioner tuned up in both the fall and spring. This ensures that equipment is in optimal operational condition prior to the full onset of heating and cooling seasons. During these tune-ups, licensed technicians clean, test and calibrate all the equipment’s working parts, and conduct tests to ensure your thermostat is working correctly.

The benefits of annual maintenance include:

  • Superior efficiency. Regularly serviced HVAC equipment operates at peak efficiency, which translates into improved indoor comfort as well as reduced home heating and cooling costs. Your system won’t have to work as hard to achieve the desired level of heating or cooling, and that means lower household energy consumption rates.
  • Fewer breakdowns. Not only will you protect your warranties by getting your furnace and air conditioner serviced regularly, but you will also prevent the need to make future service calls. Technicians can spot and correct growing problems before they necessitate a major repair—which saves you money in the long run.
  • Extended equipment life. Having your equipment serviced year in and year out will help to extend its life and delay the need to invest in costly replacements. Well-maintained equipment regularly exceeds manufacturer specifications for life expectancy.
  • Boosted safety. During the maintenance visit, the technician will also ensure your furnace is not generating excess amounts of carbon monoxide, and that harmful byproducts are safely being routed outdoors.

At Main Street Heating & Cooling, we are pleased to offer affordable annual Advantage Plans to our valued customers. These plans allow you to automatically schedule your seasonal system tune-ups at discounted rates, and provider priority scheduling to our preferred members so equipment is serviced in a timely manner. To learn more about our Advantage Plans, or to request more information about the benefits of maintenance and safety inspections, contact the Main Street team today!

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Improving Indoor Air Quality for Health & Wellbeing


Today’s energy efficient homes are built tightly to conserve heating and cooling energy. While this has a positive impact upon utilities—and more directly, your wallet—it may not allow your home to properly “breathe.” Over time, decreased ventilation can become a major health concern: exacerbating problems like allergies, asthma and respiratory conditions.

DIY Tips for Clean Indoor Air

According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to seven times more polluted than outdoor air! Since a significant portion of our time is spent breathing the air in our homes, indoor air quality is very important. In addition to hiring a qualified IAQ contractor to professionally assess your home’s IAQ, there are many do-it-yourself ways to improve the air you breathe. They include:
  • Vacuum and dust regularly. While it sounds too basic, this step is important for removing dust, pet dander and other particulates from your home. Remember to change your vacuum bag and filter regularly, too—or dirt may end up back in the air.  
  • Take your shoes off when you come indoors. This is a simple, no-cost way to reduce the dirt and debris that is otherwise tracked into your house.   
  • Making smart home improvement decisions. When remodeling or redecorating, use natural products that don't emit dangerous chemicals. Choose low- or no-VOC paints, non-toxic caulking and finishes, and natural fiber carpet and furniture.
  • NEVER smoke indoors. 
  • Place dust covers on mattresses and pillows to reduce dust mite population. Many people are allergic to dust mites, and dust mite protection is an economical way of providing allergy relief.  
  • Use high-quality HEPA air filters for your HVAC system. Depending upon the type, these high-efficiency particulate air filters capture particulates and gaseous particles and remove them from the air. 
  • Regularly maintain your HVAC system. In addition to improving the longevity of your equipment, regular cleaning and inspections prevent excess dirt and other particles from entering your indoor air supply. 

Partnering with industry-leading brands, Main Street technicians assess your indoor air and recommend IAQ products that are both affordable and efficient.

Main Street IAQ installation services include:

  • Electronic air cleaners, which generate a magnetic charge to remove contaminant particles. 
  • Air purifiers, which remove contaminants from the air and reduce the effect of second-hand smoke. 
  • Ultraviolet lamps, which kill bacteria and mold that grows inside air conditioning equipment and along coils. 
  • Whole-house humidifiers, which optimize and stabilize moisture levels and contribute to respiratory health.

To learn more about the importance of IAQ in your home, or to schedule your complimentary consultation with our Salt Lake City IAQ experts, call 801-930-5151 today—or email the Main Street team today!




Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Humidify for Winter Energy Savings

If falling Salt Lake Valley temperatures have you headed for the thermostat, keep in mind it costs an average of $144 to heat your home to 65 degrees—and $200 to maintain 72 degrees! Instead of tolerating an indoor chill to save money, consider installing a whole-house humidifier. Moist air retains heat better than dry air, making you more comfortable without turning up the furnace. Plus, a humidifier requires significantly less energy than a furnace or heat pump—so you’ll enjoy twofold energy savings. 

 

Here’s how it works.

A whole-house humidifier connects to your home’s heating and cooling system, and utilizes the system’s ductwork to circulate moist air throughout your home. High-quality humidifiers monitor humidity levels and are programmed to control moisture output. This is important, because excessive moisture may lead to mold and mildew growth.

 

The Proven Benefits

Aside from energy savings, humidifiers offer a number of other benefits for homeowners living in Utah’s dry, unforgiving climate. These include:

  • Hydrated skin & hair. Forced air heating can lower humidity to 10 percent, leading to eczema, dry scalp, psoriasis, dry eyes and other bothersome conditions. To remain healthy, skin and hair require humidity levels of 30 to 40 percent. A whole house humidifier can be used year-round to establish these levels.
  • Relief from asthma and allergies. Excessive drying of nasal membranes aggravates asthma, sinusitis and upper respiratory infections while making it more difficult to recover from colds. Appropriate moisture levels improve health and prevent drying of sinus passages.
  • Preservation of wood furniture. Wood becomes parched in dry climates—and may crack or buckle. A Utah whole-house humidifier maintains optimal relative humidity, reducing cracking and other wood damage. (It’s important to note that too much humidity is not good for furniture, either. Your Main Street HVAC specialist can help you establish appropriate humidity levels.) 
  • Reduced static. In addition to the annoyance of unwanted static electricity, too much static may damage electronic equipment. Proper humidification helps to mitigate this condition, which is common in the Salt Lake Valley.

Whole-house humidifiers are surprisingly affordable, and cost depends upon the size of your home and type of HVAC system. However, if a whole-house humidifier isn’t in the budget this year, you can still benefit from purchasing high-quality room humidifiers for bedrooms and living areas. Target, Walmart, big-box stores and other retailers carry these room-sized units, and many stores offer seasonal sales and coupons toward the purchase. Visit ConsumerReports.org for a humidifier buying guide.

To request an estimate for whole-house humidification, or to speak with a Main Street team member about the benefits of Utah humidifiers (including potential energy savings!), call 801-930-5151 or email info@mainstreetcomfort.com today. Our HVAC and humidification specialists provide industry-leading service, and look forward to solving your home comfort problems!