Author: Reidy Heating & Cooling

Don’t Get Left in the Cold: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Heating Season

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

When temps start dipping into that classic Western Massachusetts mix of “crispy,” “chilly,” and “oh no, why is my car frozen again,” your heating system becomes the unsung hero of your home. But even the best furnace, boiler, or heat pump needs a little TLC once winter really settles in.

At Reidy Heating & Cooling, we want to help homeowners stay warm and avoid mid-season surprises… because no one deserves the 8 p.m. “my heat just shut off” panic on a February night. Here are a few simple ways to make sure your heating system is ready for whatever New England throws your way.

Start with a Winter Checkup

Just like cars need tune-ups before long road trips, your heating system needs one each winter. A professional cleaning and inspection helps spot issues early, improves efficiency, and keeps your home safer. A seasonal tune-up can:

  • Improve airflow and comfort
  • Reduce energy bills
  • Catch minor problems before they become emergencies
  • Extend the life of your system

If it’s been a while, consider this your sign to schedule one.

Keep Air Filters Fresh (And Your Air Cleaner)

Dust and debris build up fast, especially as we shut windows and keep the warm air inside. Dirty filters force your system to work harder, which means higher bills and potential breakdowns.

Swap out your filter every 1–3 months, depending on pets, allergies, and how much your system runs. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep things running smoothly.

Watch for “Early Warning” Signs

Heating systems are polite; they usually warn you before they fail. If you notice any of the following, it might be time to call in a pro:

  • Rooms that heat unevenly
  • Strange noises (rattling, booming, squealing)
  • Rising energy bills without explanation
  • Furnace cycling on and off frequently
  • A faint burning or musty smell that doesn’t go away

Trust your senses; they’re good at catching problems before they grow.

Consider an Upgrade if Your System Is Getting Up There in Years

If your heating system is 15–20 years old, you might be paying more each month and risking mid-season repairs. Modern systems are quieter, more efficient, and better at maintaining a uniform temperature throughout the entire home, especially on those bitterly cold mornings. A high-efficiency furnace or boiler upgrade can:

  • Lower monthly costs
  • Improve comfort levels
  • Reduce environmental impact
  • Add value to your home

We can help figure out whether repair or replacement makes the most sense.

Don’t Forget the Thermostat

A smart or programmable thermostat can help you stay comfortable and save energy, as long as it’s set up correctly. If you’re not sure which settings work best, or your thermostat seems inconsistent, we’re always happy to help get things dialed in.

(Pro tip: If your thermostat ever goes blank, don’t ignore it. That’s a sign something’s wrong with the system and it’s better to have it checked early.)

Heat Pumps Are Worth a Look

More homeowners in Western MA are turning to cold-climate heat pumps as either a primary or supplemental heating source. These systems are incredibly efficient, work well even in low temps, and offer cooling in the summer – a win-win. If you’re considering adding a heat pump or pairing one with your existing furnace for a hybrid system, we’d be happy to walk you through your options.

Stay Warm, Stay Safe, and Enjoy the Season

Whether you’re looking for a simple heating tune-up, advice on your current heating system, or exploring a more efficient replacement option for your home, Reidy Heating & Cooling is here to help. We’ve been keeping Western MA homes cozy for decades, and we’ll be here whenever you need us this winter, too.

Need service or have a question?
Give us a call or reach out anytime. We’re always happy to help our neighbors stay comfortable all season long.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Replace Your Old Air Conditioner

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

couple on sofa enjoying ACIf you’ve been limping through the summer with an air conditioner that just can’t keep up anymore, you may be considering replacing your system but aren’t sure if it’s the right time.

You might be surprised to learn that, as the hot days start to ease up a bit and fall peeks around the corner, it’s actually one of the best times of year to think about replacing that old AC system with something new.

Let’s talk about why upgrading your AC system now might be the smartest move you make all year. Keep reading to learn more!

How Old Is Too Old?

Most central air conditioners have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, sometimes a little more, sometimes a little less, depending on how well they’ve been maintained. If yours is getting up there in age, you might already be noticing the signs:

  • It struggles to keep your home cool, especially on the hottest days
  • It’s noisy or cycles on and off constantly
  • You’ve had to call for repairs more than once in the past year
  • Your energy bills seem to keep creeping up

Older systems also often use outdated refrigerants, some of which are no longer being produced. That makes repairs more expensive, and in some cases, impossible. So, if your unit is aging and acting up, it’s not just about comfort; it’s about staying ahead of bigger headaches (and costs) down the road.

Today’s Systems Are Built for Efficiency

Air conditioning technology has come a long way in the past decade. Modern systems are designed to use significantly less energy than their older counterparts, which means lower utility bills and less strain on the environment.

Many of today’s systems also feature variable-speed compressors and smart thermostats that can fine-tune your comfort and operate more quietly and efficiently than ever before. You don’t have to blast your AC to get results, as these systems adapt to your needs in real time.

Even the rating system has been updated. You might notice SEER2 ratings replacing the old SEER numbers. SEER2 takes into account more real-world testing conditions, giving you a better sense of how a system will actually perform in your home.

Better Comfort… and Better Air Quality, Too

Newer systems don’t just cool better. They can also make the air in your home feel better.  That’s because they’re better at managing humidity levels, which can make a huge difference on those sticky summer days.

You’ll also enjoy cleaner indoor air. Many modern systems include options for improved filtration, UV lights, or air purifiers built right in. So, if allergies, asthma, or general dustiness have been bugging your household, an upgrade can help with that too.

Peace of Mind, All Season Long

Let’s face it: no one wants to come home after a long day to a hot house and an air conditioner that’s quit. When you install a new system, you’re buying yourself peace of mind. Not only are breakdowns far less likely, but most new systems come with excellent warranties to keep everything running smoothly for years to come.

Why Late Summer and Early Fall Are Ideal

You might be thinking, “Why now? Why not wait until next year?” Here’s the thing: late summer is actually one of the smartest times to replace your system. Here’s why:

  • HVAC companies tend to have more open scheduling (after the midsummer rush)
  • You’ll be ready before next summer rolls around
  • You can take your time researching and choosing the right system for your home
  • You may be able to take advantage of limited-time incentives or energy rebates

Plus, if your system is on its last legs, waiting could mean risking a breakdown at the worst possible time. Planning ahead gives you control, on your schedule and your terms.

Reidy is Ready to Help You Get the AC You Need

At Reidy, we’ve been helping folks in Holyoke and the surrounding areas stay comfortable for decades. We know a new AC is a big investment, and we’re here to walk you through every step, from choosing the right system to expert installation and ongoing support.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading, now’s a great time to get a quote or schedule a home evaluation. Give us a call or contact us online, and let’s talk about how we can help you get the air conditioning system you need.

Indoor Air Quality: How to Keep Your Home Healthy

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

Shot of a happy family relaxing together with their pet dog in the lounge at homeWith the spring season in full bloom and summer on its way, homeowners in Massachusetts welcome fresh air and sunshine. But with the change in seasons comes a new set of indoor air quality concerns—pollen, excess humidity, lingering winter dust, and allergens can affect your home’s air and your health.

At Reidy Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of breathing clean air. That’s why we offer advanced solutions, including UV lights, air purifiers, and air cleaners to keep your indoor environment fresh, safe, and comfortable.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters in Spring & Summer

The warmer weather introduces an increase in airborne allergens, pollutants, and humidity fluctuations that can impact your indoor air. Without proper filtration or purification, these contaminants can settle in your home, leading to:

  • Seasonal Allergies – Pollen enters homes through open windows, vents, and even on clothing, triggering sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.
  • Dust & Mold Growth – Excess moisture combined with leftover dust from winter can lead to mold formation and respiratory issues.
  • Lingering Winter Contaminants – After months of heating, dust, pet dander, and pollutants accumulate in ductwork and air filters.

The good news? Reidy Heating & Cooling provides the perfect solutions to combat poor air quality.

How Reidy Heating & Cooling Can Help

Learn more about the variety of indoor air quality solutions we offer, and how they can benefit your home:

UV Lights: Killing Germs at the Source

One of the most effective ways to improve air quality is through UV lights. These lights are installed within your HVAC system and neutralize harmful bacteria, mold, and viruses before they circulate throughout your home.

  • Prevents microbial growth in ductwork and on coils
  • Reduces airborne germs and viruses
  • Creates a healthier living environment

UV lights are a powerful, chemical-free way to maintain clean air year-round, especially important during spring when bacteria thrive in moisture-prone areas.

Air Purifiers: Filtering Out Pollutants & Allergens

Allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander can wreak havoc on sensitive respiratory systems. That’s where air purifiers come in.

Air purifiers work by pulling air through high-efficiency filters, trapping contaminants before they circulate through your home. Many modern air purifiers also use activated carbon filters to eliminate odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

  • Reduces pollen and allergy triggers
  • Removes lingering winter dust and odors
  • Improves overall indoor air freshness

Pairing air purification with regular HVAC maintenance can drastically improve air quality and lessen allergy symptoms during peak pollen season. At Reidy, we proudly offer the Carrier Infinity® air purification system.

Equipped with patented Captures & Kills® technology, this advanced system has been third-party tested to inactivate 99% of select viruses and germs when used as directed. That means powerful protection against:

  • Coronavirus
  • Common cold surrogate
  • Bacteria responsible for strep throat
  • Human influenza

By trapping and neutralizing harmful pathogens, the Infinity Air Purifier ensures cleaner, healthier air for your family, offering peace of mind in every breath

Air Cleaners: Whole-Home Filtration at Its Best

Air cleaners integrate directly into your HVAC system, ensuring clean air throughout your entire home.

These advanced systems use HEPA and electrostatic filtration technology to trap and eliminate microscopic particles, keeping your HVAC system free from contaminants while providing healthier, fresher air for everyone in the household.

  • Whole-home air purification
  • Traps fine particulates, dust, and allergens
  • Works seamlessly with existing HVAC systems

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing solution, an air cleaner installed by Reidy Heating & Cooling offers next-level indoor air protection—perfect for those sensitive to seasonal changes.

The Importance of Whole-Home Humidifiers (But Not for Spring & Summer!)

Although whole-home humidifiers are essential for winter comfort, they aren’t as necessary during spring and summer. Massachusetts tends to experience naturally higher humidity levels during these seasons, making additional moisture unnecessary. However, if you find that your home air is overly dry due to excessive AC use, Reidy Heating & Cooling can still recommend the right solutions for year-round comfort.

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality with Reidy Heating & Cooling

With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, now is the perfect time to upgrade your indoor air quality. Whether you’re battling pollen, tackling dust buildup, or simply looking to breathe cleaner air, Reidy Heating & Cooling offers the most effective solutions. Ready to take control of your indoor air? Contact us today to learn more about UV lights, air purifiers, and air cleaners for your home!

Heating System 101: Comparing Ductless Systems, Heat Pumps, Furnaces, and Boilers

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

Mother and daughter enjoying winter nature in the windowWhen it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable, choosing the right heating system is essential. At Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc., we understand that every home has unique needs. That’s why we offer a variety of heating systems to ensure you find the perfect fit. In this guide, we’ll compare and contrast four popular heating options: ductless systems, heat pumps, furnaces, and boilers.

Ductless Systems

Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ideal for homes without existing ductwork. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, providing zoned heating. This means you can heat specific areas of your home, leading to energy savings and personalized comfort.

Pros:

  • Energy efficient
  • Easy installation
  • Zoned heating for customized comfort

Cons:

  • Initial installation cost can be higher
  • May not be suitable for large homes

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are versatile systems that can provide both heating and cooling. They work by transferring heat from the outside air into your home during winter and reversing the process in summer. There are two main types: air-source and ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps.

Pros:

  • Highly energy efficient
  • Dual functionality (heating and cooling)
  • Environmentally friendly

Cons:

  • Performance can drop in extremely cold temperatures, although improvements in technology have made this less of a concern with modern heat pump systems
  • Higher initial installation cost for geothermal systems

Furnaces

Furnaces are one of the most common heating systems in the US. They work by blowing heated air through ducts to distribute warmth throughout your home. Furnaces can run on various fuels, including natural gas, oil, and electricity.

Pros:

  • Reliable and effective heating
  • Wide availability and service options
  • Can be combined with central air conditioning

Cons:

  • Requires ductwork
  • Fuel costs can vary

Boilers

Boilers heat your home by distributing hot water or steam through radiators or radiant floor systems. They can be powered by natural gas, oil, or electricity. Boilers provide even and comfortable heat, making them a popular choice for older homes.

Pros:

  • Even and consistent heating
  • Can also provide hot water
  • Quiet operation

Cons:

  • Installation can be more complex
  • May require more maintenance

Reidy can help you get the heating system that’s right for your home.

Choosing the right heating system for your home can be daunting, but Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc. is here to help. Whether you’re interested in the zoned comfort of ductless systems, the versatility of heat pumps, the reliability of furnaces, or the consistent warmth of boilers, we have the expertise to guide you. We’ll work with you to assess your home’s needs and recommend the best heating system — along with expert installation — to keep you warm and cozy all winter long.

Ready to find the perfect heating solution for your home? Contact Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc. today!

Air Conditioning 101: What Types of AC Systems Can I Choose From?

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

family enjoying summer homeIf you’ve been considering installing a new air conditioning system in your home, you may find that there is a lot of information out there now. It can be hard to weed through it all, and that makes it difficult to choose the best system for your home.

At Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc., we like to make it as easy as possible for our customers to learn about today’s HVAC products and help them choose the right ones for their home and comfort needs. In this article, we’ll tell you about three different types of air conditioning systems, and how Reidy can assist you. Keep reading to learn more!

3 Types of Air Conditioning Systems

Today, there are different types of air conditioning systems available, each with their own benefits. Below, learn more about the air conditioning systems we install for our customers:

  • Traditional Central Air Conditioning: This type of air conditioning system is the most common. With an indoor and an outdoor component, central air uses the home’s ductwork system to move cooled air throughout the home. Modern central air conditioning systems are much more energy efficient than their earlier counterparts, with some systems achieving SEER ratings of nearly 26.
  • Ductless Air Conditioning: Unlike central air conditioning systems, ductless systems do not require ductwork to keep your home cool. Instead, one unit is installed in a room or zone, with indoor and outdoor units connected by a small diameter tube. Whether you need cooling in just one room or throughout your home, ductless is an option, as they are available in single or multiple units. Ductless tends to be very energy efficient, as many models use heat pumps to operate, and many models can also provide heating during the colder months.
  • Heat Pump Systems: Heat pumps are considered the most efficient means of home cooling available on the market today. They don’t use fossil fuel to operate, instead transferring heat from the air in your home to the air or ground outside. And, like ductless systems, a heat pump can be reversed during the winter to extract heat from the outdoor air or earth and pump it into your home. A traditional heat pump system uses your existing ductwork to move cooled or heated air throughout your home.

The best type of system for your home depends on your home’s structure, your lifestyle needs, and your budget. To determine the most effective AC system for your home, it’s always a good idea to talk to a qualified air conditioning contractor, like Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc.

Can Reidy help me choose the right AC system for my home?

We can! When you count on us for your air conditioning installation needs, you can rely on our professional technicians and quality AC products, including central air, ductless, and heat pump systems. We’ll help you choose the right system for your home and provide the expert installation you need. Plus, because we are a full-service contractor, you can rest assured we’ll provide you with the services you need, like maintenance and repair. To learn more about our air conditioning systems, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (413) 534-3749 and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Why Choose Seasonal AC Maintenance?

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

Technician performing air conditioning maintenanceNow that the spring season has arrived, most people are starting to think about warmer days ahead. And while it might not be time for air conditioning quite yet, the temperature outside will warm up before you know it, and you’ll want that cool comfort to be readily available. That’s why choosing air conditioning maintenance for your system is important.

You may find yourself wondering if it’s really necessary to get air conditioning maintenance each year and if there are any real benefits to doing so. In this article, we’ll explain how maintenance helps your system perform at its best, and how Reidy Heating & Cooling can help. Learn more below!

The Benefits of AC Maintenance

Having an air conditioning system that’s working properly helps homeowners stay nice and cool when the temperatures start to rise. Keeping your system properly maintained can help the cool air flow freely, so you and your family won’t have to worry about a hot, sticky, uncomfortable home. Here are a few benefits regular AC maintenance can provide:

  • Improved Home Comfort: When your AC system has not been properly maintained, it can become sluggish. As a result, your home may have uneven cooling, or may not be as cool as you’d like. Getting regular maintenance ensures that your system will be clean, and all parts will be in good condition, making it much easier for your AC to keep your home cool.
  • Better Energy Efficiency: As your air conditioning system ages, it can lose some of its original efficiency. That’s even more true for systems that have not been well-maintained over the years. Annual maintenance can help it operate as efficiently as possible, which can help you save on energy costs.
  • Fewer Costly Repairs: When your air conditioning system is checked regularly, it’s much more likely that small problems will be found before they turn into larger repairs (or worst-case scenario, replacement.) Unfortunately, unchecked systems often end up completely breaking down, leaving you without cooling – and with expensive repairs.
  • Better Air Quality: A poorly maintained system is often a dirty system. That’s because dirt, dust, and other particles can accumulate in your AC system, and then are distributed throughout your indoor air whenever the air conditioner runs. During maintenance, your technician will clean your system, allowing for fresher indoor air for you and your family.
  • Warranty: If you check your air conditioning system’s warranty, you may discover that regular maintenance by a qualified professional is necessary to keep the warranty in place. Failure to do so may result in your warranty being voided, and that can mean expensive, out-of-pocket costs should your system need repair or replacement.

Air conditioning maintenance not only helps keep your home more comfortable, but it also helps you save money on energy bills and repairs. Fortunately, getting the seasonal maintenance your AC system needs is as easy as giving Reidy Heating & Cooling a call.

Reidy offers professional air conditioning maintenance and more.

When you count on Reidy for the air conditioning maintenance your system needs, you can rely on our professional technicians to help. And, we also offer convenient maintenance plans that provide cooling and heating maintenance, as well as discounts on labor and materials, and no overtime charges. To learn more about our air conditioning maintenance plans, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (413) 534-3749 and we’ll be happy to assist you.

How Can I Make Sure My Plumbing is Working Properly This Spring?

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

Plumbing serviceSpring has arrived, and that means the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer. It also means that summer is right around the corner. Plumbing problems can curtail those lazy, hazy days though, so why not take this opportunity to make sure your plumbing system won’t be causing any concerns when vacation time arrives.

How can you make sure your plumbing is in good working order? In this article, we’ll share five things you can do to ensure your home’s plumbing system is working like it should. And, we’ll tell you how Reidy can help with any plumbing problems you might have in your home – keep reading to learn more!

5 Ways to Ensure Your Plumbing is Working Properly

Now is the time to make sure your home’s plumbing is in working order so you can enjoy a worry-free summer season. Here are five ways you can do that:

  1. Check Your Drains: Make sure all drains throughout your home are free from debris and blockages that could cause problems down the road. If there are any clogs or slow draining sinks, treat them with a commercial drain cleaner as soon as possible. If this doesn’t help, it might be time to call in a plumber so the problem doesn’t become a bigger one, such as a burst pipe.
  2. Inspect Your Pipes: Look around outside for any exposed pipes or hoses that may have been damaged over winter due to freezing temperatures and snowfall accumulation. It’s important these be repaired quickly before they lead to more costly repairs in the future.
  3. Test Water Pressure: High water pressure can put extra strain on appliances like hot water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines. And that can cause them to not function properly, which can lead up to expensive repairs or replacements.
  4. Check Your Sump Pump: If your basement is prone to flooding, you probably have a sump pump. It’s important to inspect it in the spring to make sure it’s free of any debris and the inlet screen is clean. You’ll also want to make sure the float switch, check valve, and power supply are in good working order. Not sure how to maintain your sump pump yourself? The plumbers at Reidy will be more than happy to help.
  5. Schedule Maintenance: Have an experienced plumber from Reidy come out during this time of year just as preventive maintenance measure. This can guard against potential issues down the line, such as water leaks or burst pipes. Catching small problems early on can help you save on repairs and any potential water damage later on!

By taking these steps now, you’ll have peace-of-mind throughout this upcoming season knowing that your home’s plumbing is ready for the summer months.

When you need help with your home’s plumbing, count on Reidy.

You know you can count on Reidy Heating & Cooling for your home comfort system, but did you know we can help you get the plumbing services and products you need as well? At Reidy, we’re pleased to provide you with a comprehensive listing of plumbing products and services. So, whether you’re dealing with a leaky kitchen faucet, or need a new hot water heater, Reidy is ready to help.

Our plumbing technicians are fully qualified to help meet your plumbing repair and installation needs. We offer expert installation of any type of water heater, and we can help when you have bathroom and kitchen plumbing needs, too. Call us today at (413) 534-3749 to find out how we can help you with your plumbing needs.

Updating Your HVAC System this Spring? Heat Pumps are an Option.

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

heat pumpOnce spring arrives, people often start to think about home improvement projects. If you’ve been considering upgrading your home’s HVAC system, you may have already done some research on what types of equipment are available. If so, it’s likely you’ve heard about heat pump systems.

While heat pumps have been around for a while, they haven’t been widely used in the Northeast until recently. This is because they didn’t always work great in colder temperatures. But new technology has made heat pumps a viable option for home heating in cold climates, and that means more people now have a choice when it comes to using them in their homes.

How do heat pump systems work?

Heat pump systems don’t use fossil fuels like traditional oil or gas burning systems. Instead, they extract heat from the air or ground and then pump the heat into your home. This makes them operate more efficiently, and in a more environmentally sound fashion. And that makes them a great HVAC solution for people who are concerned about saving energy – and reducing their carbon footprint.

What are some other benefits of installing a heat pump system?

As we mentioned above, heat pumps are highly energy efficient and provide clean heating. But there are even more reasons to choose a heat pump system for your home, including:

  • Flexibility: Heat pump systems are available that can work in homes that have a central duct system, as well as homes without ductwork. Ductless heating systems use heat pump technology and are an efficient alternative to electric baseboard heating.
  • Air Quality: Heat pumps can help improve indoor air quality because they don’t burn fuel, which can release odors into your home’s air. They also generally provide excellent filtration of the air moving through your home, which means you and your family will enjoy cleaner air
  • Air Conditioning: One of the major benefits of installing a heat pump system in your home is that they also provide cooling in the summer. Because they operate by extracting heat from the air, this process can be reversed during the summer months – offering you a year-round home comfort solution.
  • Incentives: Because they are energy-efficient, clean, and an all-in-one HVAC solution, there are often incentives available for homeowners who choose to install a heat pump system in your home. So not only can you save on your energy bills for years to come, you can also save on the up-front costs.

Does Reidy install heat pump systems?

We sure do! When you choose Reidy for your heat pump installation in Holyoke or the surrounding areas, you can count on us to provide you with the best equipment available. Our heat pumps are durable, providing you with years of home comfort.

And, our heat pumps are energy efficient, so you can enjoy better heating as well as lower utility bills. Not to mention, because we’re a full-service home comfort contractor, you can count on us to provide you with any future heat pump maintenance or repair services you may need.

Sounds great! How can I schedule a consultation?

If you’re considering a heat pump installation for your home, Reidy Heating & Cooling is ready to assist you. Call us today at (413) 534-3749 to find out how we can help you get an energy-efficient heat pump system for your home.

Updating Your Home Heating Equipment? Learn About the Types of Heating Systems.

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

mother and child snuggle under blanket on couch while readingWith the return of chilly weather, many homeowners are thinking about ways they can improve their home comfort. If they have old, outdated heating equipment in their home, they may be considering replacing it with newer equipment. There are many reasons why replacing older equipment might be a good idea.

When heating equipment ages, it loses some of its ability to adequately keep your home warm. It may use more energy than it should. Often, people add to their homes without updating their heating equipment, and that can make equipment work harder than it should and wear out more quickly. And, the older your heating equipment gets, the more likely it is to need larger, more expensive repairs. If you’ve noticed any of these concerns with your current heating system, keep reading to learn about the different types of heating available for your home.

5 Types of Residential Heating Systems

Below, learn more about the five types of heating systems offered by Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc. – how they work to heat your home, and how they can improve your energy consumption and home comfort.

  1. Furnaces: Many homeowners use furnaces to keep their homes warm when the temperatures dip down. Most furnaces use gas or oil for home heating. Furnaces usually require a system of ductwork to deliver heated air throughout the home, commonly known as forced-air heating. Today’s furnaces are much more efficient than their predecessors, with some achieving efficiencies as high as 98.5%.
  2. Boilers: Boilers generally use oil or gas, and operate by sending heated water or steam through pipes throughout the home. The hot water or steam is distributed throughout the home via baseboard radiators or radiant floor systems. Boilers tend to last a long time, but that can mean an older boiler in your home may be using more energy than a modern, high-efficiency boiler system.
  3. Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are ultra-efficient, and in recent years have been engineered to function even in colder climates. Heat pumps use the heat from the air or ground to heat your home, and they do not need fossil fuel in order to operate. Instead, they’re able to extract heat and pump it into your home. As an added benefit, many models are able to reverse the process in the summer, effectively cooling your home as well.
  4. Ductless Heating: Ductless heating is a perfect choice for homes without ductwork, or for additions or converted spaces that don’t have access to the home’s central duct system. Most ductless systems use heat pump technology to heat homes, and, like centralized heat pump systems, are often able to cool the home during warmer weather. Ductless systems are installed as separate units throughout your home, and are easily controlled via remote.
  5. Baseboard Heating: Baseboard heating can be a component of a boiler system, or can operate independently from room to room using electricity to generate the heat. Electrical baseboard heat offers targeted comfort, and is usually controlled via thermostat on a room-to-room or zoned basis.

I’d like to learn more about upgrading my heating system. Can Reidy help?

At Reidy, we provide complete heating services to our customers, including new installation of quality heating equipment. We will be more than happy to talk to you about your current heating system, and help you find an upgrade that meets your lifestyle needs as well as your budget. Call us today at (413) 534-3749 to find out how we can help you with your home heating needs.

How Can Fall Maintenance Help Keep My Home More Comfortable?

Posted on by Reidy Heating & Cooling

home during autumn seasonNow that summer is over and the fall season has arrived, it’s time for all things autumn. The changing leaves, colorful outdoor displays, and pumpkin and apple treats will soon be arriving, along with cooler weather. Once the outdoor temperatures start to dip down, many people start to think about their home heating system – is it ready for the changing season as well?

Fortunately, making sure your heating system is ready to keep you and your family is pretty simple. Getting annual maintenance for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump system is one of the best ways you can ensure that it will start up without issue when you need it. In addition to this, there are several other reasons why fall heating maintenance is a good choice. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Reasons You Should Choose Fall Maintenance for Your Home

Of course, the main reason most people get annual maintenance is, as we mentioned above, to ensure their system will work once the cooler weather returns. There are many other benefits to choosing fall maintenance for your system as well, including:

  1. System Efficiency: Choosing annual maintenance services for your heating system can help it use less energy and operate more efficiently. Your system tends to collect dust and dirt with use, and that can cause the filter to become clogged and the inner components of your system to get dirty. As a result, your system has to work harder and use more energy. Your technician will clean your system, helping to restore efficiency.
  2. System Effectiveness: As we mentioned above, heating systems can get dirty over time. Not only does this affect the efficiency of your system, but its effectiveness as well. During routine maintenance, your system will be cleaned and tuned up, and any issues that could be causing it to operate poorly will be addressed.
  3. Longer Equipment Life: Heating equipment can last anywhere from 10-20 years. Unfortunately, systems that are not adequately maintained may not last nearly as long. Think about it this way – if you failed to get oil changes or new tires for your car, you wouldn’t expect it to last very long. The same goes for most complex mechanical equipment, including heating systems.
  4. Better Indoor Air Quality: Because heating systems tend to collect dirt and dust, a poorly maintained system can lead to inadequate indoor air quality, especially in forced-air systems. That’s because the particles that collect in your system will be circulated around your home again and again, whenever your system operates. Maintenance means a cleaner system, so the air moving through it will be cleaner as well.
  5. Warranty Maintenance: Most heating equipment manufacturers require regular maintenance in order to keep the warranty intact. Failure to get proper maintenance may result in your warranty being voided, and that can mean expensive out-of-pocket costs if your system breaks down and needs repairs or replacement.

How can Reidy Heating & Cooling, Inc. help me get the heating maintenance I need?

For your convenience, Reidy offers maintenance plans, which provide 24-hour service and discounted rates for members. Your heating system is an important investment. With our Home Comfort Club Maintenance Savings Plan, you won’t have to worry about coming home to a heating issue.

As a member, you’ll receive:

  • Seasonal Maintenance on Heating & AC
  • Discounts on Labor and Materials
  • Fewer System Breakdowns
  • Lower Utilities
  • No Overtime Charges
  • Guaranteed Service

To learn more about our maintenance plans, or to schedule your fall maintenance appointment, simply give us a call at (413) 534-3749, or contact us online. We’ll be more than happy to help you get the annual heating maintenance you need.