Recent Commercial Posts

Spring Cleaning Tips

3/7/2024 (Permalink)

Solid green background with "Spring Cleaning Tips" in bold type surrounded by drawn grass, sun and bird. Here's some tips you may not have heard!

OUTSIDE

1. Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet crucial areas to clean.  Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals.  Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term.

2. Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business.  Now the grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape.  Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes.  Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business.

3. AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system.  Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing.  Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside.  Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts.  It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period. 

4. Pest Maintenance

Along with the rebirthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests.  Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem.  It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests.  Keep in mind your locale because different areas attract different pests, this will help inform you what to spray for. If you’re located near a ditch you’ll have more mosquitoes, among other pests, than a more urbanized area. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems year after year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in.

INSIDE

1. Dusting

Simple and effective.  Even if you already dust on a regular basis now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas. 

2. Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up.  Don’t let this grime buildup in your building; buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean.

3. Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts.  The first is the organizing of all the previous years files into a consolidated area for ease of access.  Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed.  The second is the reorganization of the office itself.  This is more to keep a clean and presentable workplace.  Ideally this is a continuing process year round.  If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up the office and breathe some fresh air into the workplace. 

Different businesses have different cleaning needs. For example, if you are in a retail business many of these basic cleanings, such as windows and organization, might already be factored into your weekly/monthly workflow. Although it never hurts to go over all areas to make sure everything is getting done properly and efficiently. So some other more industry specific actions that require priority over window cleaning. And if there is any deeper cleaning needs, like rug & carpet, please call today!

(205) 926-6010

Business Owners: Are You Aware?

2/21/2024 (Permalink)

Water Flooded Office Floor Stay SERVPRO® Safe!

Damage? To My Business? I Think We'll Be Ok

Ok is not always guaranteed, unfortunately. We don’t want your business to have any type of damage, but the reality of it is that any damage that can affect a residential property can also affect your commercial building. It is a topic no one likes to think about, but is necessary to be knowledgeable about.

So What Can Happen?

Storm: Damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain which can remove roof tiles, break windows and more. Storm damages can be very devastating and can cause your business to be put on hold until it’s restored.

Water: This damage can be caused by burst pipes, floods, rain or a number of other things. In any case, this can then result in contaminated water affecting surfaces and furniture, in mold growing and in items being eroded. Electricity and water damage are particularly volatile when combined.

Fire: This type damage can come from a gas stove, faulty outlet or a cigarette that isn’t properly put out. In any case, this can then cause severe destruction to your property which requires cleaning and restoration services.

Mold: This is highly unhygienic as well as being unappealing to look at. Mold spreads quickly around properties as air-borne spores and remediation is very important to prevent it from getting out of hand. Mold grows in any kind of moist environment. Even that small leak under your office’s bathroom sink can eventually cause mold growth.

Don’t remain unaware of what can happen to your commercial building. If you have any uncertainties of a problem you may be having, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion & Selma at (205) 926-6010.

How to Save More During an Emergency

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

Seconds Count

Emergency Ready Program is an immediate plan of action for when your business experiences any damage. As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Get Started!

STEP 1: Visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Register for an account using your email address as your username and choose a password.

STEP 2: Choose your preferred SERVPRO Franchise Representative to contact in the event your home or business experiences water, fire, mold or other type of damage.

STEP 3: Begin creating ERPs for all of your properties.

STEP 4: Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application on your iPhone, tablet, Android or Blackberry device from the respective App Store.

STEP 5: Launch the Ready Plan App and sign in using the same username and password from STEP 1.

At this point, it may take a few minutes for the data to sync. All of your ERP information will appear on your tablet or mobile device. You can now access and manage ERP information from your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Our SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion and Selma family is ready to help you in the most efficient way possible. Call today as our representative will help answer any ERP questions you may have.

(205) 926-6010

National Preparedness Month: Business Prep

9/22/2023 (Permalink)

Flying Debris Protection 

High winds produce flying debris which can cause property damage, like a roof leak or broken windows, and even structural damage, like a fractured wall. We can help you minimize the risk of flying debris by following these tips.

1. Trim Trees and Clean Grounds

While high winds may result in a few missing shingles, the most significant damage is caused by flying tree branches and other miscellaneous debris. Therefore, all trees and bushes should be trimmed to minimize the risk of a damaged roof or structure. Additionally, you can police the property daily to collect any refuse, ensuring that it, too, does not harm your property in future storms. 

2. Secure and Reinforce Exterior Objects/Decor

Exterior objects like signs, furniture and fences, should be secured and reinforced to minimize any potential property damage. Depending on the severity of the winds, furniture and fence posts can become projectiles in volatile storms. You can secure these objects by mounting them to cement slabs or, regarding fences, replacing loose boards and railings.

3. Convert Gravel Pathways and Landscaping to Dirt or Concrete

A roof leak is common after high winds, and the main reason is roof damage caused by flying debris. Loose gravel and rock are some of the most common elements of flying debris, and each material adds to the risk of property damage during high winds. Replacing gravel driveways and pathways with concrete or asphalt and converting rock beds to mulch will minimize your risks during wind storms. 

4. Create an Emergency Action Plan

While you can take every preventative measure possible, nothing is guaranteed, and that is why you should have an emergency action plan in place. Restoration specialists from around the Selma, AL, area help with this type of planning, and many even offer customized plans that take effect immediately following a disaster.

Wind damage can result in many issues like a roof leak or broken windows, but there are things you, as a business owner, can do to help protect your property. Trimming trees, policing the grounds and reducing risks through appropriate landscaping are all proactive ways of protecting your business from future high wind storms.

Water Damage Insight for Business Owners

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Actions You Need To Take on Category 1 Water Damage

Most business owners are terrified when they hear those two dreaded words: water damage. However, what some do not realize is that there are different levels of water damage. Business owners need to be aware that clean water will also need to be properly taken care of to avoid damage, loss, and a progression to other, more serious water damage categories. If your property in Centreville, Marion, or Selma, AL, has water damage, here is a guide to how it starts and what action you need to take:

  1. What is Category 1 water damage? Category 1 water damage is caused by a clean water source that has not been contaminated. Since this water originates from sanitary conditions, it is not a risk to your health to be exposed to it. This category of water damage is the easiest to clean up. However, Category 1 water damage can progress quickly into Category 2 and Category 3 if not treated as soon as possible.

  2. What are the main causes of Category 1 water damage? The main sources of Category 1 water damage are usually a water supply line from an appliance that has broken, a sink or bathtub overflowing, or a broken pipe. 

  3. What is the cleanup process like? Specific professional water damage restoration services are needed, even with Category 1 damage. Removal of water is the first step, with remediation to follow if there is damage to the property. There are a variety of drying and restoration procedures to help save as much as possible. Certain things, such as carpets and walls, may be too damaged and therefore will have to be replaced.

Dealing with clean water damage can be stressful. By knowing how it starts and what steps you need to take, you will be better prepared to handle the situation and get your business back to normal.

Business Carpet Cleaning Tips

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to having a highly visited office, as a business owner, you want to make the best impression possible on the clients that come in. If the client see visible dirt and spots they will associate that filth with the business. The dirt and germs that accumulate in carpeting will accelerate wear and tear on the carpet and will greatly reduce the overall cleanliness of the office. There are very simple ways to protect your carpet and to keep them clean.

Step 1: 

Understand the difference between stains and spots. The only difference between a spot and a stain is the time it was left to sit. You should immediately blot the affected area with a paper towel to absorb as much of the spill as possible as soon as it happens. Never wipe or rub the material into the carpet as it may cause lasting damage.

Step 2:

Pre-spray cleaning solution onto the carpet to remove spots. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product being used. If the product is improperly used you risk the chance of leaving behind sticky residue and it can collect even more dirt overtime.

Step 3:

Choose the best equipment for the job. Routine cleaning, such as vacuuming daily, can reduce the need for a deep cleaning.

Step 4:

Pre-vacuum before attempting to clean.This will remove the dry soil from the carpet as once it gets wet it could become embedded into the carpet.

Step 5:

Train your staff. Keeping up a daily routine of cleaning will reduce cost overtime and will help the carpet to last longer.

Here for You

Are you in need of a heavy cleaning for your carpets? Turn to your local professionals. SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma can do that for you!

Call today and we'll work with your schedule:

(205) 926-6010

Emergency Ready Plan for Businesses

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's ERP

Emergency Ready Program is an immediate plan of action for when your business experiences any damage. As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Get Started!

STEP 1: Visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Register for an account using your email address as your username and choose a password.

STEP 2: Choose your preferred SERVPRO Franchise Representative to contact in the event your home or business experiences water, fire, mold or other type of damage.

STEP 3: Begin creating ERPs for all of your properties.

STEP 4: Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application on your iPhone, tablet, Android or Blackberry device from the respective App Store.

STEP 5: Launch the Ready Plan App and sign in using the same username and password from STEP 1.

At this point, it may take a few minutes for the data to sync. All of your ERP information will appear on your tablet or mobile device. You can now access and manage ERP information from your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Call SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion & Selma, and our representative will help answer any ERP questions you may have! 

(205) 926-6010

Business Owners: Plan to Stay In Business

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

We want to keep our local businesses.

2020 was crazy enough: This year join us in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types.

Disasters not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes. As an employer in either Marion, Selma or Centerville county, having a business continuity plan can not only help protect your company and its infrastructure, but also your employees. Maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster.

Ready Business asks companies to take 3 simple steps:

  • Plan to stay in business
  • Encourage your people to become Ready
  • Protect your investment

This year we want to emphasize our encouragement with individuals, families, and businesses to take active steps toward becoming Ready. Lets work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are Ready.

Ready Business, an extension of the Ready Campaign, helps business owners and managers of small and medium-sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an emergency. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to get started preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency.

Tips to Help Your Business be Ready

  • Update and Distribute Emergency Contact Information to your Employees. Additionally, you can create and distribute a list of important emergency numbers in the areas you do business.
  • Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans.
  • Conduct Office Evacuation/Shelter-in-Place Exercises and Drills. Once completed, evaluate how well they worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
  • Put Emergency Items of Display. Showcase an Emergency Supply Kit in your break room or other high-traffic locations and encourage employees to get their own Emergency Supply Kit for their homes.

Business Fire-Loss Claims

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Damage doesn't stop when the fire's out

While we want our business's to resume normal operations ASAP, recovering is key. This is where we, your local SERVPRO friends, come in to help. But, we want our business owners to understand fire damage assessments and the provisions of your insurance policy. 

Mitigate Damage

Preventing as much damage as possible after the fire can reduce the amount of your claim. Consider implementing these fire mitigation measures:

• Limit access to the property to minimize the risk of injury or further damage
• If utility services have not already been cut off, switch off electricity, gas and water
• Resist the urge to begin clean-up efforts until fire damage professionals determine how to proceed

Document the Physical Damage

Your insurance provider will need to know the extent of your physical losses. These can be documented through the use of photographs that exist in off-site storage or on a website, and through business records maintained by outside accountants or vendors. Your bank may be able to provide blueprints that can assist in determining any level of damage to the structure that will require repair. Your insurance adjuster can help you through this process.

Determine the Extent of Records Loss

If vital financial records were damaged or destroyed in the fire and its aftermath, you may consider calling in a forensic accountant. Such experts can help you recreate financial records, substantiate your losses properly and ensure that you receive full value for the insurance coverage you’ve purchased.

Estimate the Cost of Business Interruption

You may need or want to continue operations at another location while restoration is in progress. In that case, you’ll incur these expenses, at minimum:

• Property rental
• Equipment and furnishings leasing
• Utility service fees

We always have your back when you choose the green team.
(205) 926-6010

Commercial Preparedness

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Turn off all utilities at the main switches or valves when instructed to do so. (Gas and electric shutoff) Board up windows prior to forecasted high wind storm events, such as hurricanes.

Disconnect all electrical equipment and appliances. Raise elevators (if applicable) from the bottom floor.

Ensure your server is protected and backed up in another location.

Employee safety should always be your first priority. Account for all employees by establishing evacuation plans in advance, identifying areas outside the building that are designated meeting places.

Contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise to set up an Emergency Response Profile (ERP), which outlines every step of your emergency plan in any situation. This is a free service to you, to help when a disaster hits unexpectedly. Call us with any questions.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
  • Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
  • Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

When you need to get back to business quickly

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

As a commercial property management professional, your clients and tenants rely on you for efficient day-to-day operations of their property. They also depend on you to protect it. SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma understands there is no such thing as a small emergency when it can negatively impact occupant safety, revenue loss and business continuity.

If you experience a loss in the following areas, we can assist you:

  • Water Damage Cleanup & Restoration
  • Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration Services
  • Mold Mitigation Services
  • Commercial Large Loss and Storm Response Program

Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage, business interruptions and recovery costs. You and those who depend on you will appreciate the rapid response, expertise and training that enables SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma to help get your facility back into operation quickly.

Our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines help ensure timely communication and response and can reduce loss expense from secondary damages.

1 - You will be contacted within one hour from notice of loss to arrange for service

4 - A SERVPRO project manager will be onsite within four hours of loss notification

8 - Within 8 business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope of work will be communicated to the property manager or appropriate point of contact.

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma at 205-926-6010. With our trained professionals and specialized equipment, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Who is responsible for rental property damage?

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike both renters and property owners alike. A large water related disaster can render a property uninhabitable and cause permanent damage to the resident’s personal belongings.  When water damage strikes an apartment, who is the responsible party? The owner or the tenant?

Tenant Rights

Generally speaking, the responsibility of property maintenance falls on the landlord. If a landlord refuses necessary repairs or fails to address them in a timely fashion, and his negligence results in damage to the tenants property, (such may be the case with mold) they may be liable for the cost of replacing the affected items. Although details can vary from state to state, there are certain basic principals in place that outline the liable party. If in doubt, check with your local housing authority. 

Keep Lease Current

It’s a good idea to be aware of the terms laid out in your rental agreement/ lease as it pertains to property damage. Rental properties generally have property insurance and the lease agreement should specify what is covered and what is not.

Rental Insurance

It is a good idea to have a rental insurance policy in the event of an accident. Many property managers require rental insurance. Coverage can vary from policy to policy. Some policies cover property damage, theft, personal belongings and even lodging in the event of a displacing emergency. It’s a good idea to look into obtaining a rental insurance policy, and if you already have one, it’s good to be familiar with what is and what is not covered.

Property management/ owner duties

Any landlord is responsible for keeping the apartment maintained to an acceptable level of livability. Basic plumbing, appliance and electrical maintenance is the responsibility of the landlord, as is basic property upkeep. The landlord can be held negligible for damage incurred due to failing to perform these basic functions.

Damage to personal property

Damage to the building itself, as well as utilities and appliances should be covered by the property owner’s insurance policy. Damage to personal property falls under the responsibility of the party who caused the damages, which may or may not be the tenant.

We’re always here to help

When rain hits the Portland metro, SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma is on standby to help our local residents and businesses with their water damaged homes, apartments and businesses. If recent storms have caused flooding or a pipe has burst, our highly trained technicians are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your property. We have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our local technicians will closely monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to normal. Call us today. 205-926-6010

Be Emergency-Ready

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

A reported 50% of businesses fail to reopen after suffering a major disaster.  Our goal is to help you ensure continuity and viability even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Across the nation, and free of charge, SERVPRO franchises have provided literally thousands of "Emergency Ready Plans" (ERP) to help commercial customers respond quickly and precisely to a disaster.  The tool helps ensure that your business will suffer minimal downtime and workplace continuity.

The SERVPRO is an excellent tool because it is so user friendly. By downloading the app on your telephone, you'll have finger-touch access to all the critical information you may need in an instance. Ever get those 3 a.m. water damage calls from your security guard? No need to get dressed and head to the office to show people where the water shut-off valve is located -- direct them using the app. It's a simple way to mitigate the critical problems that arise at the worst of times.

Call us, SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma, at (205) 926-6010, and we will be happy to provide a complimentary, no-obligation ERP for your commercial properties. www.SERVPROmiamibeach.com

Emergency Ready Profile - Phone Application

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile - Phone Application

In times of emergency it is very crucial to be prepared. The Emergency Ready Profile application is a great step in the right direction of preparedness. Download the application in App Store by searching SERVPRO:

  • Add multiple building profiles.
  • Take pictures of shut off locations for fire sprinklers, water, and gas.
  • Add insurance information
  • Add local police and firefighter phone numbers

There are many other features within the application. One of the most popular is the sharing of the profile. Once the ERP is finished the owner of the profile can share with anyone who needs to be prepared for any situation. Now all your emergency personnel can find the shut off locations for anything just by opening their shared profile.

Commercial Duct Cleaning

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion and Selma on a Commercial Duct Cleaning in a industrial building.

Most people think that SERVPRO only does Water and Fire Damage jobs, but in reality SERVPRO does a whole lot more than the basics, including duct system cleanings, Carpet jobs, Strip and Wax jobs, etc. Most of the time around this time of year we typically get called multiple times about Duct system cleanings from all the spring pollen and years worth of dust and grime, but in this factory the powder from their products was inside the duct system lines so they called SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma to come and clean them out. If you need your ducts cleaned today Residential OR Commercial call us at SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma at 205-926-6010 today for your free duct cleaning estimate.

Smart heating and cooling tips

5/19/2018 (Permalink)

Running your household can often feel like a chore. There are many tasks related to maintenance that you have to keep in your mind at all times to keep your space performing in efficient ways. One primary area to focus your attention is the HVAC system you use to keep your home comfortable. Paying attention to the needs of your units can help you to avoid disaster and keep your home cooled and heated in the best possible ways.

To see excellent results from your maintenance endeavors, be sure to focus on specific aspects of your system. By paying attention to certain areas, you will have a much easier time getting your home in the state that you would like it to be in.

Low Numbers

Staying comfortable at home is not always the easiest of tasks. When you crank up the heat in the winter it can cost you. Energy bills are not cheap and plenty of homeowners are looking for ways to lower the numbers that they spend each month. To keep your costs low while simultaneously reducing the amount of stress on your heating and cooling systems you need to keep the thermostat set to lower numbers. When you turn the heat up as high as it can go, it will cost you a small fortune.

Instead, you can keep the thermostat at a normal temperature and see better results from a financial perspective. In addition to this, keeping your thermostat at a low temperature will help to ensure that you get many years of service out of your HVAC system. This does not mean that you can’t play around with keeping your house different temperatures but the default should always be something reasonable. Finding a balance here will help your home perform the way you would like it to.

Keeping It Clean

Another excellent way for you to make sure that your HVAC system is in great shape is by cleaning it out from time to time. Your units will benefit greatly by you taking a little bit of time to check over the various parts and provide a little care. The filters, for example, can wind up being one of the more important components of your system. These filters are responsible for catching any loose dust or dirt that is floating through the air and circulating through your units. Unfortunately, the filters can clog pretty quickly.

The more clogged a filter is, the more difficult it becomes for your HVAC system to perform the way it is intended. This can put a lot of strain on the unit, causing it to break and wear down far faster than is normal. To avoid all of this, get into the habit of changing the filters at a sensible pace. Knowing when it is time for you to change the filters can allow you the room that you require to keep your system running right and give your home a comfortable feeling whenever you walk through the door.

In the Still of the Night

Many HVAC systems also offer the option of running fans to keep a home circulated. This can be helpful if you want to make sure that your home has a fresh feeling. It can also be useful if you want to cool down your home with the natural air outside instead of having cooler air created by your unit. To achieve this goal with a level of success, run the fans primarily at night. Temperatures are lower at night and keeping the fans of your HVAC running at this point can help you to give your home a cool atmosphere.

Running a household is not always a simple task. To see the most success from your endeavors, focus on the maintenance required by your heating and cooling systems. The more you learn now, the easier it will be to spot an issue down the line