Do you need heating and air service in Puyallup, Washington? With respect to your heater and AC, it’s important to seek a reliable contractor. With company after company to select from, it can be tricky knowing which one will deliver optimal results. Low estimates are certainly desirable, but they don’t necessarily translate to high-level and courteous service. Be mindful of these pointers as you seek trustworthy heating and air servicing.

1. Speak to People You Know

A good way to find a technician in your region is to ask around. Inquire with family members, neighbors, and colleagues regarding the services you require. You should get a few solid leads for your efforts.

2. Do Your Homework

A suggestion from people you know is a strong starting point. However, go a step further. Spend time looking up available HVAC services in your neighborhood. Continue Reading →

The heat pump keeps your home nice and cozy. However, as with any other appliance, it may develop problems down the line. One of those issues is a fluid leak. Learn how to identify a leaking heat pump and why this happens.

Is a Leaking Heat Pump in Waller a Serious Problem?

Although a leak isn’t extremely urgent, the fluid can cause a puddle to form, creating a potential electrical hazard or mold formation. The fluid plays a valuable role in transferring heat from one place to another. When the fluid leaks out, there’s less of it available to perform this vital task, forcing the system to work harder. Inside the home, this can lead to poorer air quality.

Let’s examine some of the issues behind a leak.

Drainage Problems

Most heat pumps contain a drain pan that collects water from the dripping condensation. If the pan is overflowed, the fluid can spill and form a puddle outside the pan. Fortunately, most modern HVAC systems can detect an overflowing pan and automatically shut down the system.

Clogged Condensate Drain

The condensate drain uses several tubes to shuttle moisture out of the home interior. Blockages may arise that disrupt the flow, causing the fluid to back up. Eventually, the backed-up water will drip into the pan until it overflows.

Dirty Coil

The evaporator coil accumulates condensation that drains into the pan. If the coil surface gets dirty or encrusted with dirt, it can lead to faulty operation, causing the fluid to drop to the ground instead.

We Address a Faulty Heat Pump

Give WestCoast Heating and Air a call if you suspect less-than-optimal performance from your furnace or AC system. A leaking heat pump isn’t a reason to panic, but the sooner you act the better for your HVAC’s health. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Reliable Leaking Heat Pump Repair in Waller

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller, Summit and Surrounding Cities

Posted on February 8, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

2021 is here and so is winter. Is your furnace in optimal condition to withstand peak usage? Prioritize winter furnace care by making a few easy adjustments to get the most out of the heater while minimizing energy usage.

Inspect the Air Filter 

Change the filter in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. If you use electrostatic filters, these can be washed and reused. If the furnace also has a humidifier – as some modern models do – then inspect the humidifier’s filter as well. 

Cover the AC Condenser 

Protect the AC condenser when not in use by placing a trashcan lid over it and securing it with bungee cords. Don’t improvise with a plastic tarp, as this will trap moisture and encourage mold growth. The AC condenser is the outer portion containing the grill. 

Note: Do not cover the AC condenser if your HVAC utilizes a heat pump. These systems run year-round and need optimal air circulation.

Keep the Thermostat Consistent

Refrain from constantly adjusting the thermostat’s setting. Doing so increases energy demands on the system. Setting and keeping the system at 68 degrees during waking hours should be enough to keep every indoor occupant cozy. If you still feel a chill, putting on an extra layer of clothing will easily do the trick.

Seal the Air Ducts

An air duct leak can greatly erode indoor air quality and cause up to 20% of heat loss. Have a technician examine the ductwork for any leaks and have any penetrations sealed. Alternatively, you can avoid the issue altogether by upgrading to a ductless heating system.

Let Us Handle Winter Furnace Care for Your Sumner Home

Is your home primed for the incoming cold? Contact the experts at WestCoast Heating and Air to schedule a furnace inspection. Leave the winter furnace care to us to ensure ample indoor warmth.

Winter Furnace Care for Your Sumner Home

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller, Summit & Surrounding Cities

Posted on January 5, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Thanks to your furnace, your home will be warm and cozy this winter. However, with increased use of the furnace comes the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Find out how furnace carbon monoxide leaks occur and how to recognize the signs the poison gas is present in your home.

Signs of Furnace CO Leaks

CO is undetectable in the indoor air quality; it’s not something you can see, smell or taste in the air. You’re going to have to actively inspect the furnace.

Visually examine the furnace surface. Sooty and yellow to brownish stains around the appliance may indicate a leak. The pilot light may also constantly go out. The light itself may also appear yellowish instead of the normal clear blue.

Occupants in the home may experience sudden symptoms out of nowhere, such as nausea, dizziness and a dull headache. Children and seniors are especially prone to these symptoms.

Prevention Measures

Schedule an annual furnace tune-up. Fall is a good time since it’s right before winter. You should also change the air filter regularly. CO leaks mainly occur due to a backup of airflow, making it hard for your furnace to “breathe.”

If the furnace was recently installed, have an inspector take a second look. An improperly installed furnace may develop gaps where it connects to the ductwork and inadequately vent out the CO.

We recommend all residences install a carbon monoxide detector. CO is an odorless and colorless gas, making it really tricky to detect. Every six months, test the detector and switch out the batteries.  

We Stop Carbon Monoxide Leaks in Puyallup

CO can be lethal; don’t jeopardize your family’s health. Contact WestCoast Heating and Air for a professional furnace diagnostic. Furnace carbon monoxide leaks are dubbed the silent killer for a reason.

Expertly Assisting You With Carbon Monoxide Leaks in Puyallup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller, Summit and Surrounding Cities

Posted on December 3, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

With fall here and winter close behind, now is the time for a furnace tune-up. This guarantees optimal performance for keeping the entire household cozy as the mercury in the thermometer drops. 

A Furnace Tune-Up Honors the Warranty

For the manufacturer warranty to remain in effect, the homeowner must keep documented records of maintenance. Carefully read the warranty terms and conditions. The homeowner has a number of obligations that must be checked for the warranty to remain valid.

What Does a Tune-Up Do?

A tune-up involves a multi-point inspection, similar to one from an automotive inspection. Some points which are covered include:

• Fan speed check
• Thermostat check
• Heat pump check
• Rain shield check
• Motor and amp draw check
• Suction line temperature check
• Start and run capacitator check
• Contactors and relay check

This applies for all furnace types, including electric and gas furnaces.

Furnace Troubleshooting

You don’t need to contact a technician at the first sign of trouble. There are some DIY measures you can try before phoning a professional. First, pull out the air filter and hold it up against the light. If light fails to penetrate, you need to clean or replace it. Also, check the thermostat to be sure it’s set on “heat” and not “cool.” The setting should also not be above the current indoor temperature. Finally, check the vents in each room to be sure they’re open. If problems persist, the immediate next step is a professional tune-up.

Contact Us for an Annual Furnace Tune-Up in Pierce County

Now is the time to schedule a tune-up if you haven’t booked one since last year. Contact the pros at WestCoast Heating and Air for a professional assessment. A furnace tune-up is essential for improved indoor air quality.

Residential Furnace Tune-Up Experts in Pierce County

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller, Summit and Surrounding Cities

Posted on November 3, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

No HVAC is completely silent during operation, not even modern ductless heaters. In newer models, the sound is a quiet and even hum. If you notice irregular furnace noise, should you be alarmed? Familiarize yourself with the different sounds and what they say about the furnace’s health. Rest assured that common furnace noises are normal.

Be Mindful of These Furnace Noises

Grinding – A grinding sound of metal to metal may be a sign of an internal part coming loose. This can lead to further damage if not addressed.

Squeal – If you hear a squeaking sound or a continuous screech, there may be a cracked belt below the blower assembly. A worn belt can result in significant loss of heating power.

Rumbling – If you hear a loud bang in a gas furnace, the fuel is likely not burning properly. The gas is igniting all at once instead of steadily and evenly. This is a safety hazard; we suggest shutting off the system and calling an inspector ASAP. Though rare, the gas not igniting properly can cause a fire or an explosion.

Rattling – The furnace rattling and vibrating may be an indicator of a loose blower motor. There may also be one or more loose bolts in the access hatch. The bolts may not have been properly tightened the last time the hatch was opened and then shut.

When to Replace Your Furnace

The above noises are more common in older gas furnaces. While we can diagnose and repair most issues, we usually recommend replacement if the furnace is more than 20 years old. If repairing an older furnace, it’s usually only a matter of a few years before another problem creeps up.

We Troubleshoot Common Furnace Noises in Puyallup

Odd noises from the furnace require professional diagnosis, but we can set your mind at ease about common noises. Call WestCoast Heating and Air for an assessment of the unit. We’ll let you know what’s causing the furnace noise and the appropriate course of remediation.

Common Furnace Noises, Furnace Diagnosis and Troubleshooting in Puyallup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller, Summit & Surrounding Cities

Posted on October 5, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

The freon in your air conditioning is probably not something you think about. However, it may be the cause of a failing AC. This begs the question: how long does AC freon generally last? When is it time for a replacement?

Lifespan of AC Freon

How long does freon last? 10 years? 20 years? It can actually last for eternity. The fluid is recycled within an enclosed system and not burned up like fuel. However, the AC tubing the freon travels through will begin to wear out with age, causing the freon to leak.

Symptoms of Low Freon Levels

Low freon levels force the air conditioner to work harder. You may notice an uptick in your utility bills. You may also notice the AC blowing lukewarm air. Finally, you may notice condensation buildup on the HVAC surface. These can also be symptoms of other issues. How do you determine that an issue is a freon leak and not something else?

How to Identify a Leak

Replace the filter and remove debris that may be obstructing any openings in an outdoor HVAC unit. Test the AC; does the problem persist? If so, the next step is to arrange for a professional inspection. A leak is the likely culprit. An inspector will measure freon levels using a tool called an AC manifold gauge. If a leak is confirmed, the technician will pinpoint the precise location using UV dye or some sort of bubbling agent.

We Replenish AC Freon in Puyallup

Depending on the location and severity of the leak, we will either recommend freon replacement or replacing the entire HVAC unit with a modern ductless heating and cooling system. Contact WestCoast Heating and Air if your cooling is less than ideal. Leaking AC freon may be partially to blame.

AC Freon Repair and Replacement in Puyallup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller & Summit

Posted on September 2, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Sooner or later, either the AC or furnace is going to fail. Replacing the AC and furnace at the same time may be better than replacing them separately. Why does the failure of one warrant the replacement of the other?

When to Consider Replacement

First, how do you know when your AC or furnace needs replacement? Keep records of your energy bill statements and review them. Has the bill gradually gone up over the years? If so, and if the unit is 15 years old or older, it’s time for a replacement. Other signs of issues include strange odors and unusual sounds or louder than normal operation.

The Benefits of Replacing Both Units At the Same Time

We recommend having a matching/compatible air conditioner and furnace installed that work together in sync. Preferably, the AC and furnace should be from the same manufacturer and model year. This is a great contributor in keeping energy costs to a minimum. 

The other factor is the installation cost. You save money by having both AC and furnace units installed within the same visit. Installed separately, expect to pay more in labor fees. Installation costs more if the unit is located in a hard-to-reach area. Replacing both units will offset some of the installation fee.

When Is Dual Replacement Not Recommended?

Replacing both units at once isn’t always the best option. Here is our simple rule of thumb: If the unit that’s still working is less than 10 years old, don’t replace it. It doesn’t make sense to replace a fairly new AC/furnace that’s still in good working order. It’s also environmentally wasteful.

Considering Replacing Your AC and Furnace in Puyallup?

The ductless heating and cooling systems we install work in unison for optimal and cost-saving efficiency. Call WestCoast Heating and Air for replacing an AC and furnace together and save money!

Experts At Replacing Your AC and Furnace in Puyallup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller & Summit

Posted on August 3, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Most modern homes have a smart thermostat for convenient HVAC adjustment. The thermostat recovery mode is a pertinent feature most homeowners should be aware of. Find out how the recovery mode impacts your air conditioning and heating.

What Is the Thermostat Recovery Mode?

Modern thermostats have an auto control feature that automatically regulates temperatures at certain times of the day. About an hour before the system is scheduled to auto-adjust the HVAC, it will gradually begin to lower or raise the temperature. This is the recovery mode at work. Sudden temperature changes are more taxing on the HVAC and forces it to use more energy. This translates to a higher energy bill; it also elevates risk of an overload or breakdown.

Problems with Temperature Gauge 

Some homeowners notice the control enters recovery mode even when they haven’t set the temperature to change. This may indicate an underlying issue, such as an electrical glitch. If there was a recent blackout, the thermostat may also reset with recovery mode set as default. 

Alternatives to Recovery Mode

You can shut off recovery mode and still cut down on energy costs. When you set the thermostat for temperature changes, keep the change within five to seven degrees. This prevents dramatic shifts that overwork the HVAC.  We also suggest checking the HVAC’s freon level. The system may not work at its peak if it’s low on freon.

We Work on Your HVAC in Puyallup

Thermostats regulate HVAC systems, including ductless heaters and gas furnaces. Call WestCoast Heating and Air if the system or the thermostat begins functioning less than optimally. It’s important to understand how the thermostat recovery mode impacts the heating and cooling. Contact us today for a consultation.

Help With Thermostat Recovery Mode in Puyalllup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller & Summit

Posted on July 3, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Summer is here; the heatwave alone doesn’t make the weather unbearable. It’s the accompanying humidity that gives the temperature that sticky and icky feeling. Learn how reducing indoor humidity can make the weather a bit more tolerable.

Maintaining Relative Humidity

Summer humidity in Puyallup usually ranges between 30% to 45%. Taking measures to reduce the humidity if it’s above 45% can help. You can test indoor humidity using an inexpensive hygrometer, available at your local Walmart or drugstore. 

Turn on the AC

Turn on the air conditioner and make sure it’s running properly. The AC blows cool air into the room while cycling out warm and humid air. For best results, be sure the AC has a fresh filter and arrange for an inspection if the unit is an older model. For maximum effect, consider an upgrade to a ductless heating and cooling system.

Take Cold Showers

People love warm showers so much that they use hot water for bathing even during summer. Get into the habit of showering with cooler water. Colder water releases less steam into the air, thereby preventing a humidity spike.  Showering with cool water also lowers your core body temperature.

Remove Indoor Plants

Plants release moisture. If you keep several plants indoors, consider a temporary relocation outside. If you wish to keep them inside, place them in a well-ventilated room with plenty of open windows.

Use Charcoal

Here is a little-known DIY hack involving charcoal briquettes. Apparently, they’re not just for grilling that T-bone steak. Charcoal also acts as an absorbent by sucking moisture out of the air. Give it a try by placing a few briquettes in an open container.

Reducing Indoor Humidity in Puyallup

Indoor air quality has much to do with humidity levels. We can repair your HVAC or install a new one. The HVAC system plays a huge role in humidity adjustment. Give WestCoast Heating and Air a call to keep indoor humidity at an optimum level. Contact us today for a consultation.

Experts at Reducing Indoor Humidity in Puyallup

Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller & Summit

Posted on June 3, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business