Heating & Air Conditioning Blog | Dogtown Heating & Air

Zoned HVAC Systems vs. Single-Zone: Is Zone Control Worth the Investment?

May 6, 2025

There are often key decisions to make when it comes to heating and cooling efficiency. One major one is installing a single-zone HVAC system or investing in a zoned one. Single-zone systems condition the entire space uniformly, which may work well for smaller homes or open floor plans. Zoned systems, on the other hand, divide your home into separate areas, each with its own thermostat. Understanding the differences between these systems is essential when selecting the most cost-effective and comfortable solution for your space. In this guide, we will look at each to help you decide

Steam vs. Evaporative Humidifiers: Which Is Better for Indoor Air Quality?

April 2, 2025

Keeping your home’s indoor humidity at proper levels is crucial to the health and comfort of everyone under your roof. It can also affect the longevity of parts of your home and household items. When adding moisture to otherwise dry indoor air, you can use a steam humidifier or an evaporative model. Each increases humidity levels in your home, but they operate differently and offer unique pros and cons. Knowing the differences makes it easier to pick the best kind for your home and needs. About Steam Humidifiers Steam humidifiers are also called warm mist humidifiers.

Should You Invest in Geothermal for Your Home?

March 5, 2025

When it comes time to invest in a new heating or cooling system for your home, many options exist. One that’s gaining a lot of traction lately is the geothermal heat pump. We will dive into what this is below and help you make a better-informed decision about whether or not investing in one is right for your home. What Is a Geothermal Heat Pump? Geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, can provide both heating and cooling for your home. These systems rely on the fact that the soil temperature remains relatively regular

Replacing Galvanized Steel Pipes: PEX and PVC Lead the Way

February 5, 2025

For a long time, galvanized steel pipes were the standard for plumbing systems, but now, PEX and PVC are becoming the top choices. These newer materials have a lot of benefits over steel, like being more flexible, easier to install, and resistant to corrosion. At Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing in Urbana, IL, we’re here to explain why switching to PEX or PVC might be the best decision for your home’s plumbing needs. Problems with Galvanized Steel Pipes Galvanized steel pipes used to be the standard in plumbing, especially for homes built before the 1970s. These pipes are coated with

MERV vs. HEPA vs. Activated Carbon: Choosing the Right Air Filtration for Your Home

January 9, 2025

Indoor air pollution is a top environmental health concern for homeowners in Urbana, IL. Whole-house air filtration is often the most effective way to eliminate pollution in the home. Let’s explore three main types of filtrations that you’ll encounter. Air Filtration There are many different approaches to air filtration. The two we’ll focus on here are mechanical filtration, such as MERV and HEPA filters. We’ll also consider absorbent filtration, such as activated carbon. Many conventional air purifiers combine mechanical and absorbent filtration. Mechanical Air Filtration Pleated filters made with paper or

New HVAC Systems: How to Choose the Right One for Multistory Homes

December 5, 2024

Getting the right HVAC system for your home is important for your family’s comfort and reducing heating and cooling costs. However, those challenges compound when you’re dealing with a multi-story home because of how heat rises and trying to effectively circulate conditioned air through multiple levels. This guide will explore the HVAC systems typically considered for homes in central Illinois, getting the right size, what to consider about HVAC efficiency and advanced practices for comfort control. HVAC Options While there are nearly infinite options for keeping your home comfortable, full HVAC systems tend to be the

Insulating Your Plumbing Ahead of Winter

November 8, 2024

The temperatures in Urbana, IL, can get quite chilly in the winter months. The average temperature in the winter is just below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop into the teens, especially at night and in the northern part of the state. When it comes to your plumbing system, it’s incredibly important that cold air doesn’t cause water in your pipes to freeze. This can lead to a plumbing disaster and extensive structural damage. Insulation is one way that you prevent plumbing issues in the winter months. What Is Plumbing Insulation?

The Role of Electrical Systems in Modern HVAC

October 4, 2024

Electrical systems have long played an important role in HVAC systems. Nonetheless, they’ve become more and more important over time as HVAC technology has advanced. In this article, we’ll explore all you need to know about the role an electrical system plays in HVAC units as well as discuss the benefits of HVAC electrification. Why All HVAC Systems Rely on Electricity to Run It’s a basic fact that no type of HVAC system can work if it doesn’t have a constant supply of electricity. Air conditioners and heat pumps obviously require electricity since they’re all

How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Fall

September 5, 2024

As the temperatures start to drop, it’s essential to ensure your HVAC system is ready to keep your home comfortable throughout the fall. Proper preparation can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your energy bills in check. Let’s walk through some simple steps to get your system ready for the cooler months ahead. Replace Your Air Filter One of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your HVAC system is by regularly replacing the air filter. A clean filter ensures that your system runs efficiently, providing better air quality and preventing dust and debris

The Future of Plumbing: Smart Toilets and Fixtures

August 8, 2024

The plumbing industry is evolving rapidly, and we’re seeing more homeowners and businesses embrace innovative technologies. Among these advancements, smart toilets and fixtures are gaining popularity for their convenience, efficiency, and environmental benefits. But what exactly are smart toilets and fixtures, and how can they improve your everyday life? Understanding Smart Toilets and Fixtures Smart toilets and fixtures are designed with cutting-edge technology to enhance the user experience. These devices go beyond basic functions, incorporating features like automatic flushing, self-cleaning mechanisms, and even heated seats. Some smart toilets can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing you

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