Author: Degree Heating & Cooling

Battling Dry Air in Connecticut Homes

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Connecticut winters are known for their harshness, bringing frigid temperatures and low humidity. This can create a significant problem for homeowners – unusually dry indoor air. Cold air naturally holds less moisture, bringing it inside and heating it further reduces the humidity levels. Your heating system also contributes to the dry air problem by decreasing moisture content, making your home’s indoor environment uncomfortably dry. This dryness can affect your home and health in various ways.

Women scratching dry skin with hand,

The Impact of Dry Air

On Your Health

  • Skin Issues: Dry air can lead to dry, itchy skin and exacerbate any existing skin conditions that you and your family might have.
  • Respiratory Problems: Dry air can irritate your respiratory system, causing nosebleeds, congestion, a dry cough, and increased susceptibility to catching colds and other viruses. It can also worsen chronic breathing conditions like asthma.
  • Discomfort: Dry air can lead to headaches, fatigue, and sleep disruptions.

On Your Home

  • Damage to Wood: If you have valuable wooden furniture and hardwood floors, then they are susceptible to cracking, warping, shrinking, and gapping due to dry air.
  • Plant Stress: Houseplants can become stressed and damaged in a dry environment.
  • Static Electricity: Dry air leads to increased chances of there being static electricity, resulting in more frequent static shocks and clingy clothing.

How to Measure Your Home’s Humidity Levels

To better address the issue, it’s important to understand what is the ideal humidity range for inside your home. Experts recommend maintaining indoor humidity between 30-50%. However, during our long Connecticut winters, indoor humidity often drops to a less than optimal 10-20%.
You can measure your home’s humidity using:

  • Hygrometers: These affordable devices are readily available and effectively track indoor humidity.
  • Smart Home Systems: Some modern thermostats come equipped with humidity sensors for convenient monitoring.
  • Professional HVAC Assessments: HVAC professionals can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s humidity levels.

What Can You Do About Dry Air in Your Home

Fortunately, there are a number of effective solutions to help you combat dry air and create a comfortable and healthy home environment during our New England winter months.
Humidification Strategies:
Natural Techniques: Introducing houseplants, placing water-filled containers near heat sources, hanging damp towels, or incorporating decorative water features can help increase humidity naturally. The results will be inconsistent and maintaining a natural system requires work.
Portable Humidifiers: These are easy-to-use and maintain, offering room-specific moisture addition in various sizes and capacities. The downside is that the take up some space in your living area.
Whole-House Humidifiers: Integrated with your HVAC system, these provide consistent humidity throughout your home. Although they require professional installation, the results are more effective and long lasting. Give Degree Heating and Cooling a call to have one installed in your Connecticut home.

 

Additional Tips for Dealing With Dry Winter Air

Seal Air Leaks: Inspect your home for drafts around windows and doors and seal them with weather stripping or caulking to prevent cold air from entering and further reducing indoor humidity.
Improve Insulation: Enhancing your home’s insulation can help maintain warmer indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating, minimizing moisture loss.
Use Breathable Fabrics: Opt for clothing and bedding made from natural, breathable fabrics to minimize skin irritation caused by dry air.
Moisturize: Regularly apply moisturizing lotions to combat dry skin.

Find a Qualified HVAC Professional to Help You

If you experience persistent dry air issues, significant home damage from low humidity, or respiratory problems worsened by dry conditions, it’s crucial to consult an HVAC professional.
Degree Heating and Cooling offers a range of indoor air quality services, including:
Professional Humidity Assessments: We can accurately measure humidity levels throughout your home, identify problem areas, and provide tailored recommendations.
Installation of Whole-House Humidification Systems: We can expertly install various types of humidifiers, such as bypass, steam, drum, or disc humidifiers, based on your home’s specific needs.
Advanced HVAC Modifications: We will inspect and seal ductwork to prevent moisture loss during air distribution, improving system efficiency and reducing energy costs. We can also install advanced humidity control systems on air handlers, including smart technology for precise moisture regulation.
Ongoing Maintenance Packages: At Degree, we offer seasonal humidity tune-ups, including system checks, filter replacements, and humidity sensor calibration, ensuring optimal performance during the long winters we have here.
Smart Home Integration: They can integrate WiFi-enabled humidity monitoring systems, providing real-time tracking, mobile app controls, and alerts for humidity level changes.

Don’t let Connecticut’s dry winter air compromise your comfort, your health, or your home’s health. With Degree’s help, you can maintain the perfect indoor humidity levels all season long. We’re here to help you tackle dry air with expert solutions tailored to your needs, from whole-house humidifiers to advanced HVAC modifications. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference a properly humidified home can make. Stay comfortable this winter—call Degree Heating and Cooling now!

Preparing for Winter Storms

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Preparing for Winter Storms in Connecticut: Expert Tips for Staying Safe

storm kit

Winter storms are a seasonal challenge in Connecticut, with freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and powerful winds frequently disrupting our schedules. It’s not uncommon to experience power outages, hazardous roads, and plummeting temperatures during a storm. You can more easily get through these winter storms by taking a few proactive steps now to safeguard your home and your family from the inevitable appearance of a patented New England Nor’easter.

  1. Stay Informed and Understand the Risks

Stay updated on local weather forecasts and warnings. Sign up for community alerts, tune into the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and NOAA Weather Radio for real-time emergency notifications. These resources will help you stay ahead of potential storm-related disruptions. You can lose power and Internet access during a storm, so having a dedicated battery-operated weather radio is going to keep you informed of any important information about the weather and any local government directives regarding shelters and help if displaced. 

  1. Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

A well-prepared home is going to be key to staying safe and comfortable during a winter storm. The best time to start preparing is when the weather is still moderate by weatherproofing your home. Sealing air leaks with caulking and weather stripping, adding insulation, and taking steps to prevent your pipes from freezing are just some of the ways you can reduce the impact of cold weather storms on you and your home. Another important thing to do is test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working correctly.  If power outages require using alternative heat sources, these devices are essential for detecting unsafe conditions. This is also the best time to consider installing a backup generator that will automatically come on during a power outage. Your family will thank you for the power when the power goes out. 

  1. Stock Up on Essential Supplies

Preparing for power outages and supply shortages is vital. Here’s a winter storm checklist for supplies you’ll want to have on hand to stay safe and comfortable if you lose power and/or heat for a couple of days:

Warmth & Clothing

  • Blankets and sleeping bags (preferably thermal or wool)
  • Layered, warm clothing (thermal underwear, thick socks, gloves, hats)
  • Hand warmers and foot warmers
  • Extra winter coats

Food & Water

  • Non-perishable food (canned goods, nuts, dried fruits, protein bars)
  • Manual can opener
  • Bottled water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
  • Thermos for hot drinks (fill with hot water before the storm)

Lighting

  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered lanterns
  • Candles and matches or lighters
  • Headlamp (handy for hands-free lighting)

Heating Options

  • Space heater made for indoor use only. 
  • Wood Stove or Fireplace
  • Backup power from a generator.

Communication

  • Battery-powered radio (for weather updates)
  • Portable phone charger or power bank (fully charged before storm)

Hygiene & Health

  • First-aid kit
  • Prescription medications (at least a 3-day supply)
  • Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
  • Water for pets and pet food, if applicable

Tools & Supplies

  • Multi-tool or basic toolkit
  • Snow Shovel (if you need to clear pathways or snow)
  • Sand, salt, or kitty litter (for traction on ice)
  • Duct tape and plastic sheeting (to seal windows or doors for additional insulation)

Miscellaneous

  • Books, games, and non-electronic activities for entertainment
  • Important documents (keep them in a waterproof bag)

In addition to home supplies, prepare a car emergency kit for times when you might get caught in a storm while traveling. This could include jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, warm clothing, sand, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. If you know a storm is approaching, it’s a good idea to keep your gas tank full.

  1. Safety Measures During the Storm

When a storm warning is issued, stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary. Limit time outdoors to avoid exposure, and layer up if you need to go outside. Remember to check on your neighbors, particularly the elderly and isolated people. 

Avoid overexertion while shoveling snow or walking in deep snow, which can increase the risk of heart attacks. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.Additional Resources for Winter Storm Preparedness

For more information on preparing for winter weather, check Ready.gov or download the FEMA app for helpful checklists and safety guidance. By planning ahead and staying informed, Connecticut homeowners can improve their resilience against the challenges of winter storms and protect both their homes and families. 

Staying prepared means staying safe, even when Connecticut’s winter storms are at their most severe.

Prevent Winter Woes: Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up Today

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Make Sure Your Heating System and Home are Ready for Cold Days Ahead

Young woman drinking coffee in the morning, looking at window.

Regular preventative maintenance for your heating system is essential for a warm, safe, and energy-efficient home as the days in Connecticut get colder. By scheduling a tune-up before the cold of the winter season comes, you can identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems. This will save you money and avoid costly emergency repairs, which tend to happen on the coldest days of January. A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, reducing your energy consumption and lowering your heating bills. Additionally, regular inspections help ensure the safety of your home by identifying any potential hazards. Having us come out for preventative maintenance is a wise investment that can provide peace of mind and economic benefits.

What Can I Expect During a Heating Maintenance Visit?

  • Inspecting your furnace or boiler: This includes checking the heat exchanger, burner, blower, and other components for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
  • Cleaning the furnace or boiler: The technician will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated inside the unit since last winter.
  • Checking the thermostat functions: The thermostat will be inspected to ensure it is functioning properly and is set to the correct temperature.
  • Inspecting the ductwork (central heating system): The technician will examine the ductwork for leaks, blockages, or other problems that could affect the efficiency of your heating system.
  • Testing the carbon monoxide detector: A carbon monoxide detector should be installed near your furnace or boiler. The technician will test the detector to ensure it is working properly.
  • Lubricating any moving parts: The technician will lubricate any moving parts in the heating system to help prevent wear and tear.
  • Checking the flue or vent: The flue or vent will be inspected to ensure it is clear and unobstructed.

How Can I Get My House Ready for Colder Months?

Besides making sure your heating system is in top condition, you can do a number of things around your home to reduce your energy bill and keep your home energy efficient.
Insulation inside and out: make sure you have sealed your house with insulation in your attic and under your floor. Insulation should be inspected and replaced if damaged. Sealing drafts from doors, windows, and other gaps will keep your warm air in and cold air out. Having insulated curtains can retain heat and keep the cold from affecting a room’s temperature as much. If you have hardwood floors or tile flooring, having some rugs placed on them can help keep those rooms a little warmer.
Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat can help you save money by heating your home when you need it and keeping it lower when you’re away for the day or sleeping at night. With new technology, you can even control the temperature remotely.

Making the Best of Winter Days

Living in New England means that you have long, dark, winter nights and cloudy days. Having a cozy home can make winter days more manageable. Having a cozy attitude can also help. In Sweden and Denmark, where winter days are short and the nights are long, they use what they call “Hygge” (Swedish) and “Lagom” (Danish) attitudes. These ways of thinking are about focusing on the simple things, creating balance, and connecting with loved ones. Here in Connecticut, winter can be a time for relaxation and reflection, especially if your home heating system is tuned up and working optimally to keep you warm.

Call us now for a heating system check up and keep your inside world warm and comfortable.

What are the Benefits of Having a Backup Generator

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

After a major storm, generator sales go up all around the country. Does that mean people are just buying them for peace of mind? The benefits of owning a backup generator are actually very tangible. Power outages can disrupt your life, but a generator helps you maintain a sense of normalcy during storms that tend to damage local power. A backup home generator will keep your appliances running and you can enjoy the comforts of home while the power is down. Here in the middle of Connecticut, we can expect a couple of storms every year that will result in an outage of some kind. 

generator needed after storm

 

Power Through  Storms With a Standby Generator

Backup generators are like having insurance: there’s a payout you can expect in the event of a power outage in your part of Connecticut.

  • You Can Communicate with Family & Friends

You never know how much battery life your smartphone will have when an outage strikes. A generator can power your landline, plus you can keep your phone charged during the duration of most power outages. You can let your loved ones know that you’re safe at home. 

  • No Need for a Hotel

During extended outages, especially in very hot or cold weather, you might be compelled to move into a hotel temporarily. Without AC or Heat, you’ll still want to be comfortable. Each night at a hotel could easily cost you a couple hundred dollars (or more!). Additionally, during storms the local hotel rooms get booked quickly, plus you won’t have the comfort of being in your own home. Your backup generator can power the electrical components of your HVAC system to keep your home livable until the power comes back on. 

  • Keep Your Family & Property Safe

Your home security system might have a battery backup, but it probably can only run for a few hours. The same goes for the sump pump in your basement. Keep your systems running during a storm with a backup generator. Having a steady flow of power protects you against break-ins, flood damage to your home, and other potential risks that can occur during unexpected blackouts.

  • Eat Fresh, Prevent Spoiled Food

Refrigerators and freezers can stay cold for a few hours if you don’t open the door. After that, you’ll have to start the process of throwing away all your perishables (or risk getting a food-borne illness). Grocery stores often get barren before a large storm and cannot receive new shipments for days, so you’ll want to have access to fresh food. A generator can give you steady refrigeration during late summer storms. Some medications require refrigeration to stay effective. 

  • Power Your Medical Devices

There are a number of devices for medical conditions that require a steady flow of power. Ventilators, dialysis machines, CPAP Machines, oxygen concentrators, and nebulizers are amongst them. Most have a backup battery that will run for a brief time until other accommodations can be made. Make sure to choose a standby generator that can power any life-saving equipment that you have in your home.

  • Working from Home

If you run a home business or do most or all of your work from home, you can continue to work uninterrupted with the power of a backup generator. Internet services tend to get back online sooner than grid power during storms. And while you might not mind taking a weather-imposed vacation for a few days, it can be handy (and safer) to work from home if a severe storm is flooding streets or an ice storm is making it treacherous to go out. 

  • Protection From Power Surges

When power returns, your electrical panel can receive a dangerous surge. A whole-house surge protector can always help with that, but your generator will also safely transition your electrical system back to grid power.

Don’t Forget Commercial Generators

 

Small businesses can use a commercial standby generator to get all of the benefits listed above. Plus, a backup generator can help avoid data loss and will allow you to continue to process credit card transactions. If you need to keep the lights on at your business, a commercial generator is the way to go. 

DEGREE Heating and Cooling has the skill and experience to help you choose the right size and type of home backup generator for your needs and get it installed safely. 

Get a free estimate for standby generator installation in Glastonbury CT. and surrounding areas.

What to Do If Your AC Stops working

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

4 Things to Do When Your Air Conditioning System Breaks Down! 

When your air conditioner breaks down, it can be stressful. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you navigate it. Here are four steps to take while waiting for professional assistance when your AC system breaks down in Glastonbury, Connecticut.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

The first thing to do when you realize your air conditioner has broken down is to check your thermostat settings. Ensure it’s set to “Cool” and to a temperature that’s lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, a simple adjustment to the thermostat can solve the issue and get your AC system up and running again.

2. Check Your Circuit Breaker

A tripped circuit breaker can often cause an AC system to stop working. If you find a tripped breaker, flip it back to the “On” position. If the breaker trips again shortly after you reset it, leave it off and call a professional AC service technician to inspect your air conditioner.

3. Inspect Your Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow and strain your cooling system, leading to breakdowns. Check your air filters if they appear dirty or need change. Clean air filters can improve the efficiency of your AC system and prevent further issues from developing. You should change yours every 30-90 days.

4. Stay Cool in the Meantime

While you wait for a service technician to arrive, you can do a few things to stay cool. Close blinds or curtains to block out direct sunlight; use fans to circulate the air; and avoid using heat-generating appliances. If the temperature inside your home becomes unbearable, consider seeking temporary shelter elsewhere, such as at a friend’s house or an air-conditioned public building.

AC breakdowns can happen, but using these tips can minimize your inconvenience and discomfort. Contact our team at Degree for all your AC system repairs in Glastonbury, CT. We’re available for 24/7 air conditioning repair service.

Summer Electrical Safety Tips

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Connecticut While Staying Safe

lights

 

Everyone looks forward to summer in New England – after all, who doesn’t love the warm temperatures and sunny days that summer brings? Hanging out by the pool, while hosting a BBQ cookout brings family and friends together for getting the most out of the hot days and warm nights we get here in Connecticut.

Stay Safe and Play Safe This Summer

 

As an electrical repair and services company, we want to help you to be safer during summer days, so we came up with this list of summer electrical safety tips specific to the summer season and its many activities:

  • Keep electronics away from the water – If you have an outdoor swimming pool, think twice about putting your portable speakers near the poolside. All electronics should be kept at least ten feet away from any swimming pool, hot tub, or other water source. It doesn’t matter how careful you are, accidents can and do happen.
  • Use outdoor-rated extension cords – Need to run a little extra electricity to your patio or porch? Make sure to use an extension cord that is rated for outdoor use. There’s a good chance your cord will be exposed to moisture while outside – and an outdoor-rated extension cord will be able to handle small exposure to water from rain or puddles from pools.
  • Inspect your extension cords for damage – Before using any extension cord, inspect it carefully for damage. A damaged electrical cord always presents a safety risk – especially if you plan on using it outdoors. Any cracked extension cords or exposed wires should not be used, especially outdoors where it is exposed to the elements.electric
  • Install GFCIs – A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a device that can help improve the safety of your outlets. Outlets that are near water sources, such as outdoor outlets or bathroom outlets, should have a GFCI outlet installed. A GFCI will shut off the power to the outlet if the circuit is compromised, like exposure to water, a spilled drink, etc. This will help to protect your electrical appliances as well as keep you and your family safe.
  • Trim back your tree branches – If the branches on your property are growing a little too close to any power lines, have them trimmed back to prevent any downed power lines during high winds or thunderstorms that come in late summer when we get tropical storms coming up the east coast during hurricane season.
  • Don’t fly kites or drones near power lines – If you have power lines that are located relatively close to your home, keep those kites and drones away from the area.
  • Know where your breaker box or electrical panel is located in your home or garage – If there’s any type of electrical emergency in your home, then you’ll need to know where your breaker box is located so you can immediately shut off your power in any emergency situation. It’s also the first thing you check if you suddenly lose power to an appliance or section of your home.

We hope you enjoy all the fun and socializing that the summer days bring, but do it safely. Protect your family and guests from electrical risks and your home from potential damage by following these simple electrical safety tips.

DEGREE is proud to provide you with a wide range of electrical repairs and installation services. If you need an electrician or have questions, give Degree a call, our team of licensed electricians can address all your electrical needs, big or small. Call today!

How Do I Know if I Need Heating Repairs?

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Now that the cooler temperatures have returned, you might be thinking about your home’s heating system. Is it working as well as it should be? Living in the Northeast, we rely on our heating systems to keep our homes nice and cozy for a long period. That’s why it’s so important to know the signs of heating system failure and to act quickly if you notice something isn’t working quite right.

In this article, we’ll talk about the three main types of heating – furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps – and we’ll share with you some of the signs that each type of heating system might show if repairs are needed. And, we’ll tell you how Degree Heating & Cooling can help you get the repairs you need to stay comfortable all winter long. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs Your Furnace, Boiler, or Heat Pump System May Need Repairs

Nobody likes to think about their heating system breaking down when the weather outside becomes chilly. If you are aware of the different signs your system will likely give you before it stops working entirely, it will be easier to call for service and prevent a complete breakdown. Below, learn more about how different heating systems show that they need service.

Furnaces

Most people in the Northeast use furnaces to keep their homes warm when the temperature dips down. Furnaces work by burning fuel, such as oil, propane, or gas, to generate heat in the furnace’s burner. The heat then passes through the system’s heat exchanger, where air from the home’s ductwork is heated and then distributed throughout the house. Some common signs your furnace will give if it needs repair include:

  • Increased energy bills: This is because when a furnace needs repair, it often must work harder to keep your home warm. Many times, a dirty filter is the culprit when it comes to furnace inefficiency, but it’s a good idea to have it checked out to make sure nothing else might be wrong.
  • Strange noises: If your furnace is making popping, squealing, or grinding sounds, it’s likely that an inner component is worn out or has moved out of place. Call an HVAC professional when you hear an unusual noise coming from your furnace because if left unchecked, more damage can occur.
  • Frequent cycling: If your furnace seems to be turning on and off frequently, there are a variety of reasons it may be doing so. Your thermostat may be malfunctioning, your furnace may be the wrong size for your living space, or it may be overheating. Your technician will be able to easily determine the cause.

Boilers

Boilers are the second most common type of home heating equipment. They work by heating water using a fuel source, like oil or gas. The water (or steam, depending on the type of boiler you have), then moves through a series of radiators which are placed throughout the home to provide heating. If your boiler is acting up and needs repair, you may notice:

  • Rumbling or popping noises: If you notice that your boiler is making unusual noises, such as rumbling or popping, there could be an issue with the pump. If the sounds are coming from inside your boiler tank, there is likely a buildup of sediment at the bottom of your tank, which can cause your boiler to overheat.
  • Leaking: A leaking boiler needs to be checked out by a professional right away. Boiler leaks indicate a definite problem with your boiler, such as a faulty seal or valve. If left unchecked, leaks can cause damage to the equipment itself, electrical components within the boiler, and the surrounding area.
  • Heating delays: If you’ve noticed that it takes a lot longer for your home to heat up, even though the boiler is still working, there might be some issues with the water or steam circulation within your boiler system. Older boilers may need to be replaced in this instance, but a newer boiler can likely be repaired.

Heat Pump Systems

Heat pump systems are gaining more popularity in the Northeast, as new technologies have made them much more compatible with cold climates. They are highly energy-efficient and do not rely on fossil fuels to operate. They heat your home by removing heat held in outdoor air (or in the ground in geothermal systems) and pumping it into your home. Some signs your heat pump may give you if it requires repair include:

  • Restriction in airflow: Heat pump systems need optimal airflow to perform properly and keep your home at a steady temperature. If air is blocked from the heat pump by dust, dirt, or other foreign objects, you will notice that your home is less comfortable. This can often be remedied easily by cleaning the filter, but you should rely on an HVAC professional to be certain.
  • Constant operation: Your heat pump should not run constantly. There could be an issue with the thermostat, or compressor problems. Of course, a snap of unusually cold weather can prompt your heat pump to operate more frequently, but you should call for service if it is an ongoing concern.
  • Unpleasant odors: The heated air coming from your heat pump system should not smell bad. A rotten odor could indicate a bird or rodent got into your system and perished. Musty odors are indicative of mold growth within the unit, and a burning smell can indicate an issue with electrical components.

Whether you have a furnace, boiler, or heat pump system, it’s important to have it checked out at the first sign of concern by a qualified HVAC professional.

Can Degree Heating & Cooling help me with my heating concerns?

We can! At Degree, we take great pride in helping people get the heating services they need, including repair, maintenance, and replacement. Our priority is to provide customer satisfaction and improve your comfort. When you have heating concerns, you can count on us to meet your needs. Call Degree Heating & Cooling at (860) 633-6122 and one of our friendly associates will be happy to help you schedule a heating service call.

Why Should I Choose a Heat Pump System for My Home?

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

Have you been thinking about upgrading to a new home comfort system? Today, there are many different options when it comes to home heating and cooling, and most new equipment is far more efficient than systems were even 10 years ago. One of the most efficient home comfort technologies is heat pump heating and cooling.

Heat pumps have been used in homes throughout the world for quite some time, but they’ve only recently become popular in the Northeast. That’s because technological advancements have made heat pump systems capable of home heating, even in very cold weather. Cold-climate heat pumps have enabled more people to enjoy effective, efficient home comfort. Below, we’ll talk about the benefits of choosing a heat pump system for your home, and how Degree can help.

5 Ways a Heat Pump System Can Benefit Your Home

There are several reasons why people choose heat pump systems when they need to replace their home comfort system. Here are the top five benefits homeowners can enjoy when installing a heat pump:

  1. Improved Energy Efficiency: The Department of Energy considers heat pumps to be one of the most energy-efficient home comfort products on the market today. They indicate that a heat pump uses up to 50 percent less energy than electric baseboard heat. Not to mention, heat pumps tend to dehumidify better than standard air conditioning systems, helping to reduce energy usage and increase comfort during the summer months.
  2. Better Year-Round Comfort: Unlike traditional heating and cooling, which requires separate equipment for heat and air conditioning, a heat pump is the whole package. A singular heat pump system replaces both air conditioning and heating equipment. That’s because during the summer months, the heat pump moves hot air out of your home, and in the winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air and brings it inside. (Yes, even very cold air contains heat!)
  3. Versatile Configurations: Heat pumps come in both ducted and ductless configurations, so no matter what type of home you have, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of a heat pump. Ducted models work best in homes that already have an existing system of ductwork, whereas ductless systems are great for replacing baseboard heat and window or portable AC.
  4. Better for the Environment: One of the reasons why heat pumps are so efficient is because they do not require fossil fuels to heat your home. They work by extracting heat from the air (air source heat pumps) or ground (geothermal heat pumps) and pumping that heat into your home. And, modern heat pumps use a type of refrigerant that is much less harmful to the atmosphere than older refrigerant types, such as freon.
  5. Available Incentives: Federal and state governments, as well as utility companies, are seeing the benefits of homeowners choosing heat pump systems. As such, there are numerous incentives being offered to help homeowners pay for a new heat pump system for their homes.

How can Degree help me get a heat pump system for my home?

At Degree, we proudly offer complete heat pump services, including expert installation, maintenance, and repair services. You can be confident that you’re getting the best heat pump installation available for your home when you choose us to assist you. Call Degree Heating & Cooling at (860) 633-6122 and one of our friendly associates will be happy to help you with your heat pump needs.

What Type of Cooling System is Best for My Home?

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

family enjoying summer feast in cool comfortable homeIf you’ve either never had air conditioning installed in your home, or you’ve been considering replacing an older AC system or upgrading from window air conditioning units, you might be wondering what’s available for homeowners. You should know that today, there are many different types of air conditioning systems on the market. That makes it much easier for virtually any homeowner to enjoy the cool comfort of air conditioning in their home.

But how can you know what type of system is right for you and your family? We’ve taken the guesswork out of that for you! Below, we’ll talk about the different configurations Degree, is able to provide. We’ll explain how each system works and tell you how we can help you get the cooling you need for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

What types of air conditioning systems does Degree, install?

Degree provides a complete range of air conditioning services, including the installation of high-quality cooling equipment from trusted manufacturers. Learn more below about the types of systems we offer:

Central Air Conditioning

Most homeowners with ducted systems in their homes (i.e., homes with furnaces) opt for traditional central air conditioning systems. Central air conditioning is easy for homeowners to control and usually can be controlled using the same thermostat as your heating system. Additionally, today’s central air conditioning systems are built for high efficiency, so they can save you money on cooling versus an older system or window unit.

Ductless Air Conditioning

Gone are the days when homeowners with radiant or baseboard heat only had window air conditioning systems as an option. Ductless cooling systems can be installed in homes that do not have ductwork, which makes them a flexible option for homeowners. And, ductless air conditioning systems are a great choice for homeowners who want to cool a specific room or area of their home, such as an addition or converted space. Not to mention, ductless systems are highly efficient, and many times can also be used to provide heat in the winter. That can be especially beneficial for homeowners looking to replace old, inefficient electric baseboard heating systems.

Heat Pump System

Heat pump systems are highly efficient. Ductless systems usually use heat pump technology, but there are also ducted heat pump systems available that use a home’s existing ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the home. And like their ductless counterparts, these systems are generally capable of providing cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, making them an all-in-one, year-round option for home comfort. And, heat pump systems do not require fossil fuel to operate, lending to their efficiency while helping you reduce your carbon footprint.

Consult an air conditioning expert today
516.488.1800

How can I get the air conditioning system I need for my home?

It’s as easy as giving us a call! At Degree, we’re dedicated to providing the best possible cooling solution for your home. You can rely on us to provide you with an air conditioning system solution that is individualized for your needs. Because we’ve installed many systems locally, we’ve earned a reputation for doing the job right the first time, while respecting your home and leaving it spotless after we are done. Let our experts help you customize an air conditioning solution that’s right for you. Call Degree at (860) 633-6122, and one of our friendly associates will be happy to assist you with your cooling needs.

Spring Has Sprung. Keep Allergies at Bay with These IAQ Products.

Posted on by Degree Heating & Cooling

children surprise mom with tulip bouquetSpring has arrived, and that means the Glastonbury, Connecticut, area will be filled with the beautiful sights of the season. Budding trees and blooming flowers are welcome signs of the season. However, for seasonal allergy sufferers, they can also bring sniffles, sneezes, and other unpleasant symptoms. Not to mention, the warmer temperatures and April showers can also cause an increase in mold growth, which can also spell problems for those with allergies.

How can you keep seasonal allergies from ruining the spring season? While there isn’t much we can do to help with outdoor concerns, at Degree we can help you with your indoor air quality (IAQ) needs. We offer a range of IAQ products that can help keep common allergens like pollen and mold at bay in your home, providing you with fresh, clean air – and that’s nothing to sneeze at! Keep reading to learn more about these products and how they can help.

Learn more about indoor air quality products from Degree.

At Degree, your comfort is always our top priority and goes beyond keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. That’s why we also provide our customers with a complete lineup of home comfort products and services.

  • Carrier® Air Purification:The air that circulates throughout your home is full of tiny particles – both naturally occurring and man-made. Such particles as pollen, dander, mold, tobacco smoke, exhaust, bacteria, and viruses can circulate through your home in the air that flows through your HVAC system. Our air purifier is installed to work in conjunction with your home’s furnace or air handler, removing those particles that would otherwise flow freely through your home.
  • Carrier® Ultraviolet Lights: Everyone loves the cooling benefits of air conditioning, but unfortunately, your HVAC system’s indoor cooling coil can be the ideal place for mold and mildew to grow. Our ultraviolet lights kill bacteria and mold growing on your indoor cooling coil, and prevents them from becoming airborne – and circulating through your indoor air.
  • iWave-R: Your HVAC system can circulate unwanted particles throughout your home. Luckily, there is a way to prevent this from happening – the iWave-R air treatment system. This system can kill mold, bacteria, and viruses, as well as reduce allergens, smoke, static electricity, odors, and other particles that can make your indoor air quality unpleasant.
  • Aspen Air Purification: Aspen is a high-performance air purifier with true HEPA and activated carbon filtration, high airflow, and exceptional efficiency. It is designed and assembled in America with a quiet and efficient German EC fan motor that uses 85% less electricity than AC fans in most other units.  Aspen is the best choice for asthma and allergy sufferers and those who demand the highest indoor air quality.
Contact for cleaner air solutions
516.488.1800

I’d like to learn more about indoor air quality products for my home.

If you’d like to make the indoor air you and your family breathe fresher and cleaner, you’re not alone. More and more people are looking for ways to ensure that their indoor air quality is the best it can be. When you need indoor air quality products for your home, you can count on the experts at Degree Heating & Cooling to help. We have been helping people stay comfortable in their homes for more than 20 years, and we can help you get the improved indoor air quality you and your family deserve. Just give us a call at (860) 633-6122 and we’ll be happy to help.