Kitchener Heating Services: Are Space Heaters Dangerous?

Kitchener Heating Services: Are Space Heaters Dangerous?

As winter amps up for bone-chilling nights and frigid days, space heaters are often the go-to for homeowners that have furnace issues. Whether it’s because of maintenance issues, lack of proper cleaning, or a need for replacement, inconsistently working furnaces can be both frustrating and uncomfortable all winter long. Space heaters offer a temporary fix while saving for repairs or replacements but can also be highly dangerous. Learn more about the common concerns surrounding space heaters and who to call for heating services in Kitchener. 

Space Heaters Should Be a Temporary Fix

Despite shared memories of grandparents or parents pulling old space heaters out of storage for the entire winter season, space heaters are not meant to serve heating needs consistently. Further, when space heaters become older, the hazards surrounding them are even more significant than before. 

There are typically two types of space heaters that people have in their residential homes and commercial buildings. For the most part, in the residential heating of homes, you will find an even mix of the two, electric and fuel-burning. Due to building codes and emissions rulings, commercial heating from space heaters is only electric. 

Electric

Electric space heaters are powered by, you guessed it, electricity. These space heaters plug into an outlet to help heat the surrounding area. 

Fuel-Burning 

Though primarily a thing of the past, fuel-burning space heaters still exist and are still very dangerous. Fuel-burning heaters emit more radiant heat, similar to open fire, but from fuel use. Without proper ventilation, the effects can be both hazardous and devastating. 

Space Heaters Pose Real Dangers in the Home

Though some people believe that space heaters are sometimes necessary to take the chill out of the air, a properly working furnace should be able to get the job done without adding additional hazards to your health.

Fires 

Both electric and fuel-burning space heaters are renowned for starting house fires. Nearby materials can get too hot and catch on fire with the option. In electric space heaters, circuits are often overloaded and electrical fires that can spread across the home start with one single outlet. Fuel-burning space heaters can easily be knocked and spill fuel, accelerating flames. 

Poisoning 

Carbon monoxide can be identified by using special detectors installed in the home, which are practical for the appliances but cost additional money. Fuel-burning space heaters also pose an additional threat with carbon monoxide poisoning, sometimes referred to as the silent killer, because the signs often go unnoticed until too late. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea 
  • Confusion 
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blurred vision 
  • Weakness 
  • Headache 
  • Loss of consciousness 

Injuries 

Like any household item that poses a threat, accidents are likely to happen. Whether you turn your back for one minute and the heater topples over, or your child pours juice on top of it, causing a short, or the dog hits the flame with a tail wag and spreads fire to the curtains, you simply never know what could happen with space heaters in the home. 

Space Heaters Can’t Replace Proper Heating 

While space heaters seemingly provide a quick and straightforward solution to winter heating woes, it is only a tach to a more significant problem. As time passes, minor issues that prohibited the furnace from working properly will only grow. Soon, space heaters will not band-aid the entire home, and the furnace will still be broken. Both fuels and electricity costs rise as the winter season wears on. Rather than wasting money, begin saving or exploring financing options to address the needs of your furnace. 

For more information on scheduling an assessment of your central heating system for furnace installation, maintenance, or repair services, contact the professionals at CJ Brubacher HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services today.

Tips On How To Conserve Heat This Winter in Waterloo

4 Tips On How To Conserve Heat This Winter in Waterloo

Few things are more uncomfortable during the winter than being cold in your own home … Except, maybe, the heating bill that comes with trying to prevent that very fate from befalling you. Heating is one of the most significant utility expenses that homeowners face, if not the biggest one. For many Waterloo homeowners, it accounts for 40% of their total utility bill each month. If you recently experienced sticker shock after a month of lounging around indoors in a tee-shirt and bare feet, the good news is that you can take steps to reduce your heating bill without sacrificing your comfort, beginning with learning about what affects your heating costs. From there, explore all options available to you and maybe consider putting on a pair of socks. Finally, invest in heating services in Waterloo.

1. Turn the Thermostat Down

When the thermometer shows negative temperatures outside, the last thing you probably want to do is turn your thermostat down. However, adjusting the temperature down by 10 degrees for even just a few hours a day can save you as much as 10% on your annual heating bill. You don’t have to sacrifice your standard stay-in uniform, either. Set the thermostat for between 60 and 63 when you leave for work in the morning and again when you go to bed at night. When you’re up and moving, you can keep the temperature at a comfortable 72.

2. Make Sure Doors and Windows Are Tightly Shut

According to commercial and residential heating surveys, of the nearly $2,000 to $3,000 Canadians spend on their seasonal heating bills, roughly 10% to 20% could be going right out the window — quite literally. Drafts and air leaks around windows account for significant energy loss in both commercial and residential buildings. Trying to heat your home with an outdated heating system doesn’t help either. If you want to reduce your bill by as much as $400 each winter, stop the leaks. Tape up around your windows if you cannot afford new, energy-efficient ones. Place towels along the bottoms of doors to prevent cold air from seeping in, and make sure your windows are locked up tight.

For more permanent solutions, consider replacing old, single-pane windows with new double panes. Replace old seals, caulk up any gaps between casings and walls, and make sure all exterior doors fit snugly in their casings.

3. Bundle Up

Okay, so as much as you love rocking bare feet and short sleeves all winter long, doing so makes little sense for your wallet. One of the easiest ways to reduce your heating bill is to dress appropriately. Wear pants made of a substantial material, a warm sweater and wool socks while indoors. At night, cuddle up under a blanket. Double up on the comforters on your bed to offset the adjustment in your thermostat. By doing these simple things, you can drastically reduce your heating bill while maintaining your comfort levels indoors.

4. Let the Sun Heat Things Up

Almost as simple as dressing appropriately, one of the easiest ways to reduce your residential or commercial heating bill is to throw open the shades. You may see less of the sun during the winter months in Waterloo, but that doesn’t mean it never shines. Take advantage of the days when the sun’s rays are strong by opening your curtains, blinds or shades first thing in the morning. Likewise, shut them at night to provide an extra layer of protection to keep the heat in and the cold out.

These are just a few simple ways you can reduce your heating bill on your own and without making any significant changes to your home or lifestyle. However, if you want to see a real change in your annual bill, invest in commercial or residential heating services in Waterloo. Our team at CJ Brubacher Ltd can assess your heating system and either maintain or update it so that it works at maximum efficiency. To learn more about how our services can help you, request a free estimate today.

The Best Commercial Heating System For Your Kitchener Warehouse

The Best Commercial Heating System For Your Kitchener Warehouse

Keeping a warehouse heated correctly can be difficult. It’s not only workers who need to be kept comfortable. You may have products that require special temperatures. You have multiple options to heat your warehouse, so you should understand the benefits and disadvantages of each to know what type of commercial heating system will work best for your needs.

Commercial Heating Options

Choosing the right heating option avoids poor heat distribution through your facility and energy waste because your system is overworked. It also helps avoid uncomfortable employees.

Radiant Heating

Radiant heating is a newer type of system that is usually suspended from the ceiling or on panels on the walls. It can also be installed in floors. Instead of blowing hot air, the radiant heaters deliver heat much like a desk lamp. It runs quietly and is more dust-free than heaters that blow air. It’s very energy efficient, but it can be expensive to retrofit a building with radiant heaters. It’s more popular for new construction. It’s also dependent on a boiler, which can add to the installation costs. You may also hear this type of system referred to as infrared heating.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps use a refrigerant to pump heat through your space. One of the benefits of heat pumps is that it uses the natural environment and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels. They’re very environmentally friendly. The downside is that the installation can be significant, but heat pumps can last up to 50 years. They also have less maintenance than other types of units. Heat pumps can be duct or ductless, which can be beneficial if you don’t have space for ductwork. Although heat pumps generally rely on electricity, which reduces your carbon footprint, your heat pump can be paired with gas for a colder climate.

Factors to Consider When Installing a New Heating System

Warehouses are often large buildings with high ceilings. You don’t want to waste energy by heating every square inch of the building, which is often unused space. There are methods that can re-circulate the warm air that rises to the occupied floor level. You’ll also want to consider the square footage of the building and the insulation present. If you have loading docks in use through the day, that is another thing to look at. You’ll want to think about the space on your floor. If you have limited floor space, you may want a heating source that can be mounted on the ceiling. 

Don’t forget to think long-term about the maintenance and longevity of the unit. Paying more for a system that has a longer life span can actually save your business money. Look at utility costs and sustainability, because the world is moving towards a greener planet. Should you ever want to sell the warehouse, you want to appeal to buyers.

CJ Brubacher Ltd. provides heating services in Kitchener from residential or commercial AC installation, repairs and maintenance. We can help you get the best heating option for your warehouse that does what you need it to do. Contact us to schedule service or for a consultation about your heating system replacement. We’re available 24/7 for emergency services also.

Waterloo Furnace Repair: What Is a Ductless Heating System?

Waterloo Furnace Repair: What Is a Ductless Heating System?

Maintain comfortable indoor temperatures all year with a ductless heating system. Also known as a mini-split, this dynamic option can be a great choice for your cooling and heating services in Waterloo. Learn more about the pros and cons of a ductless system today to see which type of heating system is right for you.

What Is a Ductless Heating System?

A ductless system uses a heat pump for residential heating and an air conditioner for residential cooling services. They use a small outdoor unit and one or more wall-mounted indoor units.

They’re named ductless systems because they don’t rely on the ducting in your home. Instead, they have a line that directly connects the exterior unit with the interior ones. The same wall-mounted unit can send both hot and cool air throughout your home. Explore the pros and cons of this type of system to see if it’s right for your home.

Con: Upfront Investment

If you’re just looking for a straightforward heater or air conditioner, a ductless system can be more of an investment. Unlike a window air conditioner or an electric heater, these systems require professional installation, which adds to the cost of installation.

Depending on your situation, however, a ductless system can be a better long-term investment. You may save more on your monthly energy bills thanks to the energy-efficient design of these systems. Discuss pricing with a local contractor to see whether a ductless heating system or other option is more affordable for long-term heating.

Con: Fuel-Based Backup May Be Necessary

Winters can be particularly cold in Waterloo. While some ductless heating systems are designed to be used in subzero temperatures, you’ll notice a drop in energy efficiency in cold temperatures. Extremely cold temperatures may require a backup heat source, particularly if your home isn’t properly insulated.

Pro: Quiet Operation

Ductless systems are quieter than most traditional air conditioners and heating systems. Wall units in one or more rooms of your home or commercial space tend to be inconspicuous. Simply set the desired temperature and many mini-split systems will switch between cooling and heating as necessary to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Compare the sound of a furnace and blower or window air conditioner units with a ductless system. The quiet fan can discretely blow cool air around a room to keep you comfortable.

Pro: Improved Energy Efficiency

Ducted systems lose energy as the air travels through the ducting. The air in your home warms up, or cools down, as it travels through the ductwork, which caused a central furnace or air conditioner to work harder to maintain temperatures throughout your home.

The efficiency of a ductless system helps you save money over time. They’re particularly efficient when the outdoor temperature isn’t extreme. A multi-speed system allows ductless units to speed up or slow down the system. This design uses less energy than a central air system and can avoid the additional starting and stopping issues that can wear out blower motors.

Pro: Compact Design

Compare the streamlined size and design of a ductless system. The sleek unit doesn’t take up room in your utility room or floor but can be installed on the wall out of the way.

A ductless system is particularly compact in design for new residential or commercial constructions. Consider this residential or commercial heating solution to avoid investing in any ductwork. A building without any ductwork has significantly more space in the basement or crawlspace.

Work With CJ Brubacher To Install a Ductless System

Reach out to a local HVAC specialist to learn more about ductless heating services in Waterloo. Request an estimate today to see how you can afford the right heating and cooling system to save you money and fit your lifestyle.

Why Is HVAC Maintenance Important In Commercial Buildings?

Why Is HVAC Maintenance Important In Commercial Buildings?

It’s easy to take your commercial HVAC system for granted as long as it provides heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. Your commercial heating unit creates the best environment in your space for employees and customers. The HVAC system not only controls the temperature, but it also moderates humidity in your building and maintains good air quality. When your HVAC system is operating efficiently, your business runs smoother. Here are five reasons to invest in regular HVAC maintenance for your commercial building.

Reduces Operational Costs

A professional completely checks the HVAC system during a routine maintenance inspection, which ensures that your AC and furnace are operating at peak performance. A unit that is struggling to work costs more to operate. It uses more energy. You can save on your utility bill through regular maintenance. In addition, you make sure that the HVAC system lasts for its full life, on average 15 to 20 years, which also saves you money on operational costs. Many times, our technicians can catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs, which also saves you money.

Avoid Breakdowns

Enticing customers into your store that doesn’t have heat or cool air will be difficult. Your employees may balk at working when the AC or furnace isn’t working. You can avoid unforeseen breakdowns through regular maintenance. By cleaning the unit, checking all the electrical components and lubricating parts to keep them working properly, your unit is ready for the worst days when it will need to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures for your business. Regular heating services in Elmira prevent disruption to your operations.

Comfort for Customers and Employees  

In the summer, your AC system doesn’t just keep the air temperature comfortable, it removes humidity from the air. Not having heat in the winter can impact your staff’s productivity. You want your employees and customers to have a comfortable environment. Regular maintenance includes professional cleaning and safety checks that ensure peak performance in both summer and winter temperatures.

Improves Air Quality

The air filters in your HVAC system reduce dust particles and pollen that circulate throughout the building. Our technicians check your vent and ductwork system for leaks and gaps, which also keeps your system more efficient and improves air quality through your building. This, too, increases the comfort for customers and employees. We also make sure your heater isn’t contaminating your building with radon or formaldehyde. If you have a carbon monoxide detector, we can make sure it’s working sufficiently as well.

Extends Life of the Equipment

Regular maintenance for your HVAC system prevents the moving parts from wearing out before their time. Our technicians keep all major components of your system working efficiently for as long as possible. If your commercial HVAC system is under warranty, regular maintenance may be part of keeping that warranty from being void. This keeps your overall repair costs lower, too. You can better plan for upgrades to your building, which lets you save for the right time.

Peace of Mind With Regular Maintenance

Soot buildup in your HVAC system can lead to fires. When your furnace doesn’t get enough air, it can cause low oxygen levels. If your AC system gets blocked, it can cause water damage. You can avoid these problems with regular service to your system, giving you peace of mind that your building is protected from major problems. We recommend a service call in the spring when you get ready to turn the AC on, then another service call in the fall when the temperatures turn lower, and you want to heat. Schedule service for commercial or residential heating systems using our online form. CJ Brubacher Ltd. can help you keep your HVAC operating efficiently