Skip to main content

  Morrow Mechanical is now Amazing Morrow!

We're Hiring! Apply Online To Join the Ammmazing Morrow Team!

3 Reasons to Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Visit in January

January is one of the most important months for homeowners to evaluate how well their HVAC system is performing. The holidays have passed, winter weather is setting in, and your heating system has already been running long enough to reveal early signs of strain. If you haven’t yet scheduled HVAC maintenance this season, January is the ideal time to do it; not only to stay comfortable now, but to prevent major issues later in the year.

A mid-winter tune-up gives technicians the chance to identify performance issues, reduce energy waste, and prolong the life of both your heating and cooling equipment. Below are three reasons why January HVAC maintenance pays off for Houston-area homeowners.

1. January Reveals Early Symptoms of Heating Wear and Tear

By January, your heating system has already faced weeks of on-and-off use. Houston’s winter patterns – cool mornings, mild afternoons, sudden temperature swings – make HVAC systems cycle more frequently than homeowners realize. This frequent shifting causes components to wear faster, even if the furnace is still producing heat.

Common early-season warning signs include:

  • Uneven temperatures between rooms
  • Longer heating cycles than normal
  • The first signs of weak airflow
  • New noises during startup or shutdown
  • Occasional cool air blowing from the vents

These symptoms often start subtly, which is why January is the perfect moment for a professional inspection. A trained technician can pinpoint small issues like a failing capacitor, dirty flame sensor, blower motor strain, or restricted ductwork, problems that typically worsen by February and lead to unexpected breakdowns.

Amazing Morrow’s heating maintenance service helps identify these issues before they escalate, protecting your system through the rest of the season.

2. Maintenance Improves Efficiency During Peak Usage

Even though Houston doesn’t experience severe winter weather, heating costs tend to rise in January and February because systems run longer during cooler nights. If your HVAC system is dirty, struggling, or poorly tuned, it consumes more energy for the same amount of heat.

A thorough tune-up helps reduce monthly bills by improving how efficiently air moves through the system and how smoothly components operate. During maintenance, a technician will typically:

  • Clean and adjust burners
  • Check and tighten electrical connections
  • Inspect the heat exchanger
  • Improve airflow through blower and filter components
  • Evaluate duct conditions
  • Test safety controls
  • Verify proper temperature rise

When these areas aren’t maintained, the system has to work harder and every extra minute it runs increases your monthly energy consumption.

Because Houston homes often move quickly from heating to cooling season, improved efficiency also benefits your AC system. A clean, well-maintained furnace reduces strain on your blower motor and ductwork, which are shared by both heating and cooling equipment.

3. Prevent Spring and Summer AC Problems Before They Start

One of the biggest benefits of scheduling HVAC maintenance in January is that it gives technicians a head start on identifying cooling system issues long before temperatures spike.

Many AC breakdowns that occur in April, May, and June begin as heating-season problems: poor airflow, weak electrical components, dirty indoor coils, or an unbalanced blower. Because both systems share many internal parts, catching issues now dramatically reduces the risk of an unexpected AC failure later.

January maintenance helps technicians address:

  • Blower motor wear that impacts summer airflow
  • Drain line issues that cause springtime water leaks
  • Electrical components that weaken from seasonal temperature changes
  • Early refrigerant concerns that may not be noticeable until warmer weather

With Houston’s long cooling season, waiting until spring for your first HVAC appointment can put you behind thousands of other homeowners scrambling at the same time. January gives you the advantage of early access, shorter wait times, and more thorough service.

Stay Comfortable All Winter, And Be Ready for Spring

January HVAC maintenance isn’t just a winter chore – it’s a smart investment in system reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term comfort. A tune-up now helps prevent temperature inconsistencies, reduces strain on your system, and ensures your equipment is prepared for Houston’s fast-approaching warming trend.

If you haven’t scheduled your winter maintenance yet, Amazing Morrow is here to help. Call 281-301-0560 to book your heating or HVAC tune-up and keep your home comfortable through every season.

5 Questions To Ask Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the right HVAC contractor directly impacts your home’s comfort, energy costs, and long-term system lifespan. The wrong choice can lead to costly repairs, inefficient performance, or even safety risks. Whether you need a heater repair in Spring, TX, or a full system installation, knowing what to ask will help you find a skilled, trustworthy professional.

At Amazing Morrow, we understand how important it is to hire an experienced HVAC expert. This guide covers five essential questions to ask before making your decision.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Texas?

HVAC work requires technical expertise and compliance with state regulations. In Texas, HVAC contractors must be licensed through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) to ensure they meet safety and performance standards.

It’s also crucial to ask about insurance coverage. A reputable contractor should carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation, protecting you from unexpected costs due to accidents or property damage during the job. Without proper coverage, you could be held financially responsible for any mishaps on your property.

2. What Industry Certifications Do You Hold?

Beyond licensing, the best HVAC contractors earn industry certifications that demonstrate advanced training and adherence to best practices.

Certifications to look for include:

  • NATE (North American Technician Excellence) – Verifies a technician’s expertise in HVAC installation and service.
  • EPA 608 Certification – Required for handling refrigerants safely and legally.
  • ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) Membership – Shows commitment to industry standards and ongoing education.

These credentials ensure that the contractor has the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose, repair, and install HVAC systems efficiently.

3. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee?

A confident HVAC contractor will stand behind their work. Before hiring, ask what warranties or guarantees they provide on labor, parts, and system installations.

Reliable HVAC companies typically offer:

  • Manufacturer warranties on equipment, covering defects or early failures.
  • Labor warranties that ensure installation and repairs are done right.
  • Satisfaction guarantees that protect you from poor workmanship.

Understanding these warranties gives you peace of mind and prevents unexpected out-of-pocket expenses if something goes wrong.

4. How Transparent Is Your Pricing?

HVAC services can be a significant investment, so clear and upfront pricing is a must. A professional contractor should provide a detailed written estimate before starting any work.

Make sure the estimate includes:

  • Equipment and material costs
  • Labor fees
  • Additional charges (such as permits or disposal fees)

Be wary of contractors who give vague pricing or refuse to provide estimates in writing. Transparent pricing helps you avoid hidden fees and ensures you’re getting a fair deal.

5. What Experience Do You Have With HVAC Systems in Spring, TX?

Local expertise matters when choosing an HVAC contractor. In Texas, where summers are hot and humid, your HVAC system must be equipped to handle high cooling demands efficiently.

A contractor with local expertise will understand:

  • The best energy-efficient solution for Texas homes.
  • Common HVAC issues in Spring, such as humidity control and system overload.
  • The latest technology and rebates available to help reduce energy costs.

It’s also helpful to check customer reviews to see what past clients say about their experience. Positive testimonials from local homeowners can give you confidence in the contractor’s reliability and expertise.

Trust Amazing Morrow for Your HVAC Needs

Hiring the right HVAC contractor requires careful consideration. By asking these five questions, you can ensure you’re working with a licensed, experienced, and transparent professional who prioritizes quality service.

At Amazing Morrow, we are fully licensed, certified, and have extensive experience handling Texas’ unique climate challenges. Whether you need an AC installation, eating repair, or routine maintenance, we’re here to help.

Call us today at (281) 301-0368 for expert HVAC services in Spring, TX! 

Is It Best to Replace Both Furnace and Air Conditioner Simultaneously?

The real answer to this popular question is an uncertain one: the dreaded answer of “it depends.” Unfortunately, it’s one of those questions that require much more information to answer correctly. Every home has a unique heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) situation. In some of those situations, it does make sense to replace both the air conditioner and furnace at the same time. In others, it does not. Let’s take a close look at a few of these key factors and the role they play in making the right decision for your particular home.

Equipment Age

Perhaps the number one factor in deciding whether or not you should replace your air conditioner and furnace at the same time is the age of both pieces of equipment. The average lifespan for an air conditioner is around 10 to 15 years. However, the average lifespan of a furnace is 15 to 20 years, potentially twice as long as the air conditioner.

If you installed a new air conditioner and furnace at the same time, it’s likely that you will need to replace your air conditioner before your furnace. In fact, it’s probable that your furnace could last as long as two new air conditioning units.

A good rule of thumb is that if your furnace is less than 10 years old when you require a new air conditioner, do not replace them at the same time, unless you are upgrading to a multistage or variable speed air conditioning system.

Cost Effectiveness

If, on the other hand, your furnace was installed before your air conditioner, and one of them breaks, it may make sense to replace both your air conditioner and furnace at the same time. If both pieces of equipment are more than a decade old, it’s worth considering replacing your entire HVAC system.

The average cost of replacing a furnace alone can be as much as $4,300. An air conditioner replacement alone can be as much as $7,000. The combined cost to replace both at the same time will be less than replacing both components separately. For instance, adding a new furnace to an air conditioning replacement may run only an extra $1,000 to $2,500.

Efficiency Gains

The other factor to consider in this equation is if you decide to invest in a high-efficiency air conditioner such as a multistage or variable speed system. These more efficient systems usually have a SEER rating of 16 or higher. These systems require a matching furnace that has a variable speed blower in order to minimize energy consumption.

Our team at Morrow Mechanical wants to help you understand your unique HVAC situation. Give us a call and we’d be happy to come out, evaluate your equipment, and offer suggestions. You can trust our professionals to give you an honest assessment with pros and cons so you can make the best decision for you and your family.

How to Save Power While on Vacation

 

It’s summertime in Texas, and all of us are taking off for beach getaways, mountain retreats, waterparks, amusement parks, and family reunions. However, it is also the most expensive time to cool your home.

The HVAC experts at Morrow Mechanical are here to help you take advantage of your vacation time and save power while you’re taking some time off.

1. Turn Your Air Conditioner Off

It’s pointless to cool your home when you’re not there. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, simply turning your air conditioner off at the thermostat will help you save electricity.

2. Unplug

Unplugging as many electronics as possible is one of the best ways to save power while you’re away. Even though you don’t have cell phones charging or a TV turned on, electronics can still use power. These electronics, often called ‘energy vampires’ will suck power even though they’re not being used. Unplugging vampire electronics could save you a shocking amount on your utility bill.

3. Reduce Your Water Heater’s Temperature

Obviously, you don’t need hot water when you’re not home. Newer model water heaters have a ‘vacation mode.’ This setting reduces the temperature of your water heater to 50 degrees.

If your water heater doesn’t have a vacation mode, you don’t have to miss out on the savings. You can turn the water heater’s temperature down as much as possible. Or, you can simply turn off power to the water heater at the breaker.

4. Use Timers

It’s nerve-wracking to leave your home unattended. To deter thieves, many homeowners choose to leave some lights on to give the appearance that they’re still home. However, this is not only an ineffective way to keep your home safe, it is also a huge energy consumer. Investing in a timer is a great way to increase the security of your home and slash your utility bill.

5. Draw the Shades

If you’ve turned off your air conditioning, but don’t want to return to a sweltering house, draw the curtains and close the shutters. Not only will this keep your home at a decent temperature, it will also keep prying eyes out.

6. Program Your Thermostat

If you have a programmable thermostat, be sure to take advantage of its features on your next vacation. You can set your thermostat higher when you are away to reduce your cooling expenses, then set it to cool on the day you return.

7. Don’t Empty Your Refrigerator

Many homeowners don’t know of the “four week rule” when it comes to refrigerators. Though you might be tempted to empty your refrigerator before a trip, if you’re going to be away less than four weeks, keep it fully stocked. Why? Because when your refrigerator is stocked with cold items, those cold foods and drinks help keep each other cold. It takes more energy to constantly cool the air in an empty fridge than it does to maintain the temperature of already-cold items.

However, if you are away for more than four weeks your best bet is to completely empty your fridge and unplug it.

Want to know more about how to save power when you’re on vacation? Call Morrow Mechanical!

We hope these tips help you save money and energy during your summer vacation. If you need more suggestions, or require HVAC service, call Morrow Mechanical. Our HVAC experts serve the Houston and Spring, Texas areas with top-notch professionalism and HVAC products. Call us today at 281-370-1566 or schedule your service online.

How to Maintain Your Home Appliances

 

Imagine you just invested in a company. You pour a large amount of money into the businesses’ future, then you monitor its performance and progress, right? Your home appliances are no different.

But, after completing step one: investing in home appliances, many homeowners forget step two: monitoring and maintenance. This mistake shortens the lifespan of your appliances and will lead to expensive repairs.

The expert technicians of Morrow Mechanical have assembled this guide to maintaining your investments. Read on to find out more.

1. Clean your dryer’s filter

If you find yourself having to dry your clothes twice, and yet you are regularly removing lint from the filter, it’s time for a new tactic. Dryer sheets develop a film on your dryer’s filter, clogging it. Remove your filter and clean it with hot water and a bit of laundry detergent. This will dissolve the film and help your dryer, well, dry!

2. Check the oven seal

Overtime, using your oven causes wear and tear on its seals. When the seals are worn out, heat escapes from the oven, into the home. Not only does this lead to uneven cooking, but it also forces your HVAC unit to work harder due to increased warm air circulating in your home. Replacing the seal will prevent heat from escaping your oven.

3. Clean refrigerator coils

If your refrigerator is being sluggish, it’s probably not just the humid Houston summer. Dirty refrigerator coils make it hard for your refrigerator to cool efficiently. Remove the grille at the bottom of the fridge and use a coil cleaning brush to eliminate debris and be sure your fridge is cooling properly.

4. Avoid overloads

A good rule of thumb is to never overload your appliances. You may temporarily save money on your utility bill by cramming clothes into the dryer, but consistent overloading will shorten its life. Avoid expensive repairs and premature replacements by not overloading your washer, dryer, or dishwasher.

5. Recalibrate your oven

If your oven hasn’t been heating as quickly, as accurately, or as evenly as it used to, try recalibrating its temperature. In your oven’s manual you’ll find instructions for how to calibrate the temperature display to the actual temperature inside the oven.

6. Clean the kitchen ventilation

Range hoods perform the important job of maintaining good indoor air quality by filtering heat and odors out of the home. However, dust and debris can clog the metal filters, reducing the range hood’s efficiency. You can maximize the filters’ capacity by cleaning them with hot soapy water.

7. Clean fridge gaskets

Sticky fingers and occasional spills lead to buildup on your fridge’s gaskets. If this buildup isn’t cleaned, your family will pull harder and harder to open the fridge door, leading to a tear in the gasket. So, to avoid an expensive repair and make your gaskets last as long as your refrigerator, clean them regularly.

Need more information on how to maintain your home appliances? Call us today!

Most homeowners aren’t expert technicians, so if you need help understanding how to maintain your home appliances, call the experienced professionals at Morrow Mechanical. Our team has generations of experience in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems. Call us at 281-370-1566, or schedule your service online.

How to Conquer Spring Allergies with Your HVAC System

Nothing can sour your love of spring and warmer weather faster than unbearable allergies, especially when they follow you into your own home! Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can fight back against these allergies. To help you survive this spring season, the experts at Morrow Mechanical are here to tell you how to conquer spring allergies with your HVAC system.

Preventative HVAC Maintenance

  • Clean Your System’s Cooling Coils

Considering the fact that all the air coming into your home through your AC unit passes over a coil, a dirty coil can really affect your air quality. Air that has passed over a dirty coil can further inflate spring allergies and lead to mold and mildew growth. Furthermore, dirty coils in your AC unit can cause clogs that force your unit to work twice as hard. Keep your family unit and your AC unit safe from the havoc these allergens can wreak by keeping your cooling coils clean!

  • Keep Your Blower Motor Clean

Like dirty coils, a dirty blower motor can cause your AC system to work overtime to blow air through your ducts and vents. As a result, your filter will not be able to perform as efficiently in removing allergens, toxins, and pollutants from your indoor air. Therefore, you should make sure your blower motor is thoroughly cleaned to prepare for anything spring throws your way. 

  • Empty and Clean Your Drain Pans

Another overlooked part of your HVAC system is your drip pan. Because your AC unit produces condensation when humid air meets the frigid evaporator coil, a drip pan is a necessity. That being said, a continuously wet and dirty drop pan is an oasis for mold and mildew. Therefore, you should have your drain pans cleaned during your annual HVAC tune-up to keep these dangers at bay.

  • Change Your Filters

In addition to cleaning your HVAC system, you should change your filters regularly. Because your filters are the main line of defense against springtime allergens and other airborne pollutants, you should change them every 2-3 months to maximize their efficiency. 

  • Have a Professional Inspect and Clean Your Ducts

Because your duct system is the highway through which all your conditioned air travels, it’s important to keep it clean and in good repair. As a part of your annual spring tune-up, have your HVAC technician clean your ducts. Also, have your technician perform a thorough inspection of your ductwork to stay ahead of any necessary repairs or replacements that need to happen before hot weather kicks in.

Invest in Cleaner Air

  • Upgrade to HEPA Filters

Did you know that your standard HVAC filters are more for protecting your AC unit and furnace from large dirt and debris rather than protecting your air? As a solution to this problem, one of the best investments you can make to improve your home’s air quality is in a high-energy particulate air (HEPA) filter. As the best HVAC filters on the market, HEPA filters trap more than 99% of pollen, dust, and smoke before they can enter your home.

  • Invest in a Portable HEPA Air Purifier

Because of the worsening problem of indoor pollution, air purifiers are becoming an essential household feature. There are many portable purifiers on the market that can be found online, making this an easy solution to invest in for better indoor air. We recommend purchasing air purifiers with HEPA filters for the most effective removal of allergens.

  • Install a Whole-Home Air Purification System

If you are ready to make a larger investment in your home’s air quality, consider installing a whole-home air purifier. While there are many options to choose from, consulting with an HVAC professional is the best way to figure out which system will be the best choice for your home.

Lend a Hand to Your HVAC System

  • Keep Doors and Windows Closed

Although it may be tempting to let in a refreshing springtime breeze, your sinuses will suffer the consequences. In addition to your sinuses, your HVAC system will also suffer. Do both of them a favor by keeping your doors and windows closed during allergy season. This will not only help reduce the amount of pollen brought into your home, but it will keep other pollutants, dust, and dirt away, too.

  • Leave Your Shoes at the Door

Another way to keep unwanted allergens, dust, and dirt out of your home and out of your HVAC ventilation and filters is by leaving your shoes at the door. A great deal of outdoor pollutants can be brought into your home from your shoes and clothing. Therefore, a no-shoes home is likelier to have cleaner air.

  • Clean Your House

This tip does not only apply to cleaning your indoor space but also to maintaining the outside of your home. Rake up leaves and keep your garage, patio, and deck clean from pollen, lawn clippings, dirt, dust, and other debris.  

  • Use the Best Cleaning Methods

While we are on the subject of keeping a clean home, we recommend removing dirt, dust, and pollen from surfaces in your home with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. Furthermore, dusting should be done with a damp cloth to avoid sending pollen spores into the air.

  • Ditch Your Ion-Based Air Purifiers

If you already have air purifiers in your home that are ion-based, it’s time to trade them in for a more efficient system! While ion-based air purifiers can remove pollen, they create ozone that can exacerbate your allergy symptoms. Instead, opt for a cleaner HEPA purifier.

  • Wash Your Bedding Regularly

Because you may not always be a nighttime showerer, this is an important tip to remember. Just as your car can become covered with pollen in a matter of hours, your hair and clothing can also accrue a lot of the stuff throughout the day. Sometimes, bringing that pollen into our bed is inevitable. Therefore, regularly washing your bedding during springtime is a good way to reduce the amount of pollen in your home’s air.

  • Keep Your Pets Well-Groomed

Like your own hair, your pet’s fur can carry a disturbing amount of pollen and other particles into your home from the outdoors. To keep this problem at bay, you should regularly bathe and brush your pets.

Are You Ready to Conquer Spring Allergies with Your HVAC System?

Allow the team at Morrow Mechanical to join in the fight! Our skilled and experienced HVAC technicians are dedicated to helping homeowners like you find the best solutions for any of your HVAC needs. Call us today or visit our website to tackle spring allergies like a pro!

Save on Energy with DIY Weatherization

Spring is a time of rebirth, a fact that has inspired the old saying: “April showers bring May flowers.” While this delightful little rhyme romanticizes the rainy season, we are well aware of the very real damage heavy rains and other extreme weather can do to your house and your bank account. The experts from Morrow Mechanical are here with some tips to help you save on energy with DIY weatherization.

Vulnerable Areas of Your Home

Before you can become a DIY weatherizing extraordinaire, you will need to know which areas in your home to focus on. Here are a few places to start:

  • Your Basement – One of the most vulnerable places for water leakage in your home is your basement. With proper weatherization, you can reduce the risk of water leakage from heavy storms.
  • Your Doors and Windows – The wet weather of spring can cause wooden windows and doors to swell and stick. When dryer weather hits, the wood will shrink back, leaving gaps for your cool air to escape.
  • Your Attic or Crawlspace – There are many air bypasses in your home that lead to your attic or crawlspace. These can cause your heating and cooling systems to work overtime to make the temperature comfortable. Some of these air bypasses include chimneys, plumbing vents, wires, interior walls, and exhaust fans.
  • Your Roof – Your roof is an overlooked area that could help you save money on energy with the proper weatherization. You can easily transform your roof into a thermal heat deflecting surface with some DIY options. 
  • Your Gutters and Downspouts – Ineffective gutters and downspouts during heavy rain can cause water to run down next to your home’s foundation. Even if that water does not enter your basement, it can still erode soil from under the house footings, leading to cracked walls and ceilings. 

DIY Tips:

  • Weatherizing Your Basemen
  1. Waterproof your basement floors and walls. To start, remove paints, sealers, tile adhesive, efflorescence, and oils from the concrete. Then, use a shop-vac on the surface of the concrete to remove loose or crumbling concrete, mortar, dust, and dirt. Seal the concrete walls and floor against moisture with Radon Seal. Let the concrete dry out for a couple days, and then seal the other side.
  2. Add plastic film insulation to your basement windows. You can also use foam insulation spray to seal any air leaks around your basement windows.
  • Weatherizing Your Doors and Windows
  1. Apply weather-strips along the frame of your windows and doors.
  1. Install new sweeps to older door sweeps. Close the door, measure its length, and cut a new wood sweep to the proper size.
  1. Cut highly-sticky foam tape to size and secure it in exposed areas around your doors and windows.
  1. Hang thermal curtains on your windows. These will help block the sun’s rays during hot summer days and keep your home cool.
  • Weatherizing Your Attic or Crawlspace 
  1. Insulate your crawl space door and access panel with a 1-inch foil insulation board. Then, add market weather stripping at the door seams.
  1. Seal up air bypasses leading to your attic with caulk and fire-blocking expanding foam sealant. Then, cut and fit strips of 24-gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and surrounding wood frame. Seal the flashing where it meets the chimney with high-temperature caulk.
  1. Install weather-stripping around the perimeter of the access opening to your attic. Then, screw hooks to pull the hatch taught against the weather-stripping. Glue rigid extruded foam insulation to the top of the hatch.
  • Weatherizing Your Roof
  1. Apply cool roof coatings to your roof – If you have a low-sloped roof, apply cool roof coatings to single-ply membranes. If you have a steep-sloped roof, apply cool asphalt shingles. These provide better solar reflectance. If your roof has tile, apply cool roof coatings to make them more reflective and waterproof.
  • Weatherizing Your Gutter System
  1. If your gutters aren’t firmly connected to your house, add fascia hanger brackets to fasten your gutters to your home.
  1. If your gutters are leaking, make sure all clogs and debris are cleared, and then use a proper gutter seam sealer to prevent further leaking.
  1. If water is getting behind your gutters, you may need to install flashing behind your gutters. Consider using a gutter apron to prevent splashing and dripping behind your gutters.
  1. If your gutters are overflowing, you probably have an obstruction that needs to be unclogged. If removing the obstruction does not fix the issue, install splash guards on the outside edge of your gutter corners.
  1. Extend your downspouts. This process is simple: 1) Cut your downspout at a 45-degree angle with a hacksaw or metal shears. 2) Attach the zip hinge with 8 screws. 3) Spray paint the zip hinge to match your gutter color. 

Let the Pros Handle it

You now know some DIY projects to weatherize your home and save on energy this season. If you are looking for more ways to maximize the efficiency of your AC system, the experts at Morrow Mechanical are happy to help. For help with any of your HVAC needs, contact us today and allow our certified technicians to make your home spring-ready!

Tips to Increase the Lifespan of Your HVAC System

It is too easy to take for granted the things we rely on for daily comfort. Your HVAC system is one of the key components to keeping your home comfortable and safe through each season. So, do you take care of your HVAC system as well as it takes care of you? If not, you can start now! The experts at Morrow Mechanical are here to share with you our tips to increase the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Change Your Air Filters 

We recommend that you change your air filters every 4-6 weeks for the best air quality. If you have a reusable air filter, such as an electrostatic filter, you should clean it once a month.

Avoid Closing Interior Doors and Blocking Air Vents 

Keeping interior doors open as much as possible will improve air circulation throughout your home and allow your HVAC system to work effortlessly. Always keep your vents clear and free of obstructions to help your HVAC system induce air properly and freely.

Inspect and Clean Your Condenser Regularly 

Somewhere along the outside of your home is your AC condenser. Regularly inspect your condenser for signs of elemental damage, and clear away any debris such as leaves or weeds that may accumulate on or around the unit. Cut away vegetation that is growing around your condenser to help keep it free of obstructions.

Use the “Auto” Fan Setting 

Your HVAC system most likely has 2 fan settings: “auto” and “on.” While the “on” setting instructs the fan to run constantly, the “auto” fan setting instructs the fan to run only when the system is actively heating or cooling. Although the “on” setting can help improve the air quality in your home by trapping more dust, it forces your HVAC system to work much harder, shaving more time off its life.

Regularly Inspect Your Outdoor Drainage Pipe –

Your HVAC unit has a PVC pipe that leads outside and serves as a drainage outlet. To avoid expensive repairs to this outlet you can regularly inspect the drainage pipe for any blockages or debris. This is especially important during winter months in case of ice or snow deposits.

Upgrade Your Insulation –

This is a wise investment and sure-fire way to help increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. Insulation lessens the struggle to keep your treated air inside your home. Your attic is one of the most important places you should check for adequate insulation. If you think you need to step up your insulation game throughout your home, the best way to locate your weakly insulated spots is to schedule a professional energy audit.

Install a Smart Thermostat –

Smart thermostats are one of the greatest technological investments you can make for your HVAC system. They are easy to program and allow you to control your thermostat settings from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. Some models can even make energy-saving adjustments to your settings for you by simply learning your HVAC habits.

Use Ceiling Fans During Hot Weather Months –

You can give your system a break by using your ceiling fans during hot weather months and pushing your AC temperature a bit higher.

Invest in Reflective Shades –

Reflective shades work well to block out unwanted heat from the sun during hot weather months. This can also allow you to give your AC system a break without losing cool air in your home.

Keep Shades Open During Cool Weather Months –

Let free heat from the sun pour into your home so you can set your thermostat a bit lower.

Schedule a Professional Load Calculation –

If your HVAC system is too small, it will not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature setting and will run constantly as it tries to heat or cool your home. Conversely, a system that is too big for your home will reach the desired temperature setting too fast, making the system turn on and off constantly. This can result in moisture issues and additional wear on your HVAC system.

Schedule Annual Checkups –

Just like your car, your HVAC system requires routine maintenance to continue running efficiently. Your AC and furnace should be inspected, cleaned, and tuned up every year by a professional. We recommend 2 annual checkups:

  • Your AC Service – should be scheduled in the spring
  • Your Furnace Service – should be scheduled in late summer or early fall.

Pro Tip: Scheduling these checkups ahead of the changing season will allow you to make sure your system is optimized for efficiency the first day you need it. If a serious problem is detected during one of these checkups, you can address it before you need to switch systems.

Now that you know our tips to increase the lifespan of your HVAC system, you can prepare your system for anything. Start this season off right – contact the pros at Morrow Mechanical and allow us to whip your HVAC system into fighting shape for the Spring and Summer season!

Get Organized in 2019: Tips for Planning Ahead

We are all familiar with that list of resolutions we make at the start of the new year. Whether these goals are focused on your health, career, personal life or home, reaching them begins with changing your daily organizational habits. For some great ideas to revamp your habits and reach your 2019 resolutions, try following some of these tips from the insightful experts at Morrow Mechanical.

Tidying Tips for Your Home & Office

Clutter in your home or workspace will only lead to clutter in your mind. Developing organizational habits in your daily routine starts with organizing your space. Here are some tips to get you started.

1.      Organize your Tidying Time by item, not location

Old Ben Franklin said it best: “A place for everything, everything in its place.” This means keeping all of one item in the same location, so you do not find yourself repeating the same tidying work multiple times. This will reduce the daily amount of time spent tidying or trying to find misplaced items and leave you with more time to devote to your 2019 goals.

2.      Make Daily Time for Tidying

Adopt the habit of tidying your space before leaving it. Aim for leaving a space as tidy or tidier than how you found it, and you will be able to avoid stress-inducing clutter in your daily life.

3.      Returning Items to their Home

Make sure each of your items has a place, so you can more easily develop the habit of returning them when you are finished using them. Knowing everything is in its own place will help you feel at peace and comfortable in your home or in your workspace.

Organizational Tools & Apps for 2019

Now that you have learned some ways to declutter your home and workspace and keep it that way, you are ready to add some of these organizational tools and apps to make 2019 your year:

1.      The Things 3 App for iOS

Find yourself buying a new planner and calendar each year that just ends up collecting dust in a drawer? Invest your money in the iOS app called Things 3. This app includes an interactive checklist and a clean and easy-to-use design.

2.      The ZenDay App for iOS & Android

Approach your daily to-dos with a bird’s-eye view. ZenDay helps you zero in on your first task while seeing what you need to focus on next. This app helps you prioritize your list of to-dos and maintain perspective on your progress by color-coding overdue tasks and upcoming deadlines. If you missed something on your list, ZenDay will automatically reschedule those missed tasks.

*Pro Tip: Utilize the debriefing feature of this app to get an overview of your productivity level!

3.      Google Calendar for iOS & Android

Stay on top of events and deadlines with the Google Calendar app. With this app, you can set reminders for future commitments, and look up previous and future events with the search option. Gmail users will find events mentioned in their emails (such as hotel or flight reservations) automatically imported into their Google Calendar.

4.      do App for iOS & Android

This app is a to-do list and calendar in one and is ideal for organizing a large range of tasks into one location. Any.do is great for viewing your month at a glance and a day-to-day list of to-dos by offering a dual view of your monthly calendar at the top, and a scrolling list of to-dos, events and overdue tasks below.

*Bonus: This app is also compatible with your Google, iCloud and Outlook calendars!

Stay on Top of Household Maintenance

Do not let all the hard work you are putting in toward developing tidier habits go to waste by putting your household maintenance on the backburner. Here are some regular DIY maintenance tasks you should add to your 2019 to-do list:

  1. Inspect and change out your HVAC filters. For smaller families without pets or allergies, change your filters every 2-3 months.
  • Clean your kitchen sink disposal; put some vinegar in an ice tray, let it freeze, then run the cubes through the disposal. This will freshen your disposal and sharpen the blades!
  • Test your smoke/carbon dioxide detectors. Press the “test” button on your detectors; if the alarm sounds, you are in good shape, but if not, replace the batteries immediately and try again. If that still does not fix it and you’ve cleaned the battery terminal, you need a new detector.
  • Test your water heater’s pressure relief valve; this will keep your pipes from leaking due to a buildup of mineral and corrosion.
  • Vacuum your refrigerator coils. Save up to $100 annually by keeping the coils clean on your refrigerator so it does not use up more energy to keep running.
  • Now you have learned some tips on getting organized for 2019 that will benefit you in many different aspects of your life. Implementing the tidying tips and organizational app tools will not only help you focus more of your time and energy on the important goals you have set for yourself but will allow you to start 2019 off with a more peaceful frame of mind.

    For more peace of mind about your household maintenance, contact the experts at Morrow Mechanical and get ahead of future repairs.

    Prepare for 2019: 5 Reasons You Need an HVAC Maintenance Plan

    Tired of making New Year’s resolutions you just can’t keep? We can help! At Morrow Mechanical, we’re all about helping customers achieve their goals for 2019 and beyond. If you’re looking for a simple way to save money, better your home’s energy efficiency, and/or improve your health, we’ve got the perfect solution: sign up for our HVAC maintenance plan.  The best part is once you join our program, we do all the work from there. So, get ready to say hello to a new year and a better you! Not convinced you need an HVAC maintenance plan? Here’s why regular heating and air conditioning maintenance is an absolute must:

    1.   You will extend the life of your system.

    For high-cost items, it’s understood that routine care is essential. Take your car, for example. You wouldn’t drive more than 5,000 miles without changing its oil because you know that forgoing such a task could lead to problems down the road. If you want your HVAC system to live a long, happy life, it’s important to keep it in tip-top shape. With proper care, you can expect your system to last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Neglecting to care for your heating and A/C equipment will cut that lifespan by nearly half!

    2.   You will improve energy efficiency.

    Homeowners are always looking for ways to cut their energy costs, and we don’t blame them! Signing up for an HVAC maintenance plan is a highly effective way to do just that – and more. For example, by just changing out the filters regularly, you can lower energy costs by five to 15 percent! And that’s just one task we complete during your visit. When you take into consideration our comprehensive checklist, the savings are even greater. If you’re looking for additional ways to save on your energy bill, check out this guide from Energy.gov.

    3.   You will improve your indoor air quality.

    Your home’s indoor air quality has a huge impact on your overall health. Poor indoor air quality can lead to numerous health problems, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, sinus congestion, allergies, fatigue, and more. Our expert HVAC technicians will ensure the air you’re breathing in is clean.

    4.   You will reduce the need for costly repairs. 

    Turns out, what you don’t know CAN hurt you and your bank account. Without routine care, it’s impossible to know what’s going on with your system. Our maintenance program means you’re in the know at all times. We can catch small problems before they become costly.

    5.   You will establish a relationship with an HVAC professional. 

    Finding a company that you wholly trust can be a trying process. Nobody wants to feel like they’re being taken advantage of. At Morrow Mechanical, we treat our customers with respect and dignity. Your safety, satisfaction, and peace of mind are our highest priorities. By signing up for our routine service plan, we can begin to build a meaningful relationship with you and better understand your exact needs.

    If you have any questions about our HVAC maintenance plan, give us a call at 925-307-6588! Consider us your one-stop shop for all things heating and cooling.

    https://www.morrowmechanical.com/blog/finding-the-ideal-heater-temperature-this-winter.html

    Finding The Ideal Heater Temperature This Winter

    December 20, 2018

    Whether you love winter or you hate the cold temperatures, there is no doubt that it is a beautiful season. Aside from the holiday decorations that can be seen from every street corner, images of snowy landscapes, icicles hanging from everywhere, and of course, building snowmen and memories! Although we might not see snow too often in this area of Texas, envisioning these thoughts may bring a smile to your face. Regardless of the amount of snow we receive, the temperatures still get quite cold and can cause your energy bill to increase substantially. We’re going to take a look at how to combat these costs with the right temperature and tools–keep reading for more information!

    The Ideal Temperature

    Certain electric companies might put out advertisements about how to save money by setting the temperature in your home to a crazy-low and uncomfortable temperature. It has even been recommended that people set their thermostats to 55 or 60 degrees–that’s insane!

    Instead, try setting your heater to 68-72 degrees during the day if someone is home. At night, consider setting it just a couple of degrees lower; if you can stand a colder house at night, by all means, freeze yourself out. Although we’re kidding, there is something to be said for setting your thermostat too low or turning it completely off. Should you turn your thermostat completely off during the day when you’re not there or set it extremely low and then decide to turn it up, the heater is going to have to work harder to provide the needed warmth. Basically, a heater provides the same volume of warmed air no matter the temperature. The colder your home is, the longer the heater will have to work to bring your house to temperature.

    Update Your Thermostat

    If you can’t stand the idea of setting the temperature in your home to a chilly 72 degrees or below, this next tip is for you! All thermostats are not created equal, and older models are far from efficient! The older mechanical models that we’re talking about are not programmable and must be turned on, off, or constantly set to a certain temperature to keep your home comfortable. There are also non-programmable digital thermostats that allow you to switch and set a temperature designated to turn on the heater or AC.
    Next, we have programmable thermostats that allow you to set the minimum and maximum temperatures while also allowing control over the times that the system functions. Finally, there are ‘smart’ thermostats. These powerhouse devices ‘learn’ your behavior as far as when the home is occupied, when it’s not, and when people are sleeping. They also give you the ability to control your home’s heating and cooling system from your smartphone anywhere in the world. They are quite a bit more expensive but offer features like energy reports so you know what to expect on your monthly bill and how you can make your home more efficient.

    Defeating The Electric Company (or at Least Their Bills)

    It seems as though fall and spring are the only two relatively comfortable times of year–and ‘comfortable’ is a debatable adjective. There are numerous ways to keep your electric bill low during the wintertime, but the easiest one is to find the temperature that works for your home. If you find 74 degrees to feel perfect in colder months, consider dropping that to 72 or 70 degrees. You can even gradually decrease the temperature so the change isn’t as noticeable. At night, take advantage of the fact that you will be wrapped up in blankets and set the thermostat a bit lower–68 is a great place to start (there are multiple benefits to sleeping in cooler temperatures!)
    The entire point in finding an acceptable lower temperature is to keep your heater from running constantly. When your heater isn’t always on, you save money!

    Call Morrow Mechanical Today, Not ToMorrow!

    In order to get your home ready for cooler temperatures, consider giving Morrow Mechanical a call to schedule a heater tune-up. In addition to following the tips listed above, a tune-up will lessen the chances of a heating emergency or paying more for an inefficient system. We can also take a look at your air ducts and air filters and ensure your home is safe and ready for the wintertime!

    Do you have a cold weather tip that you swear by? Tell us about it in the comments!

    • 1
    • 2

    Schedule Service

    "*" indicates required fields

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.