Heating & Air Conditioning Blog | Dogtown Heating & Air

Furnaces Noises and What They’re Telling You

December 13, 2023

Furnaces commonly make some noise, such as humming sounds while running. Some noises, however, can indicate that the furnace has a problem and needs to be checked out by an HVAC technician. These are some common noises a furnace may make and what the problem likely is. Rattling A rattling noise can mean several things. The furnace might have a loose part that needs to be tightened back into position. The part might also be worn down and need to be replaced. More rarely, it could mean your furnace is about to fail. In the worst-case

What are the benefits of boilers for my home?

November 17, 2023

Instead of using forced air to heat homes, boilers use radiant heating. Radiant heating is when the system heats radiators, baseboards or in-floor piping to distribute heat. While choosing a boiler for your Paxton home is a major choice, there are many benefits that this heating source offers. Even Heat Distribution Compared to forced-air systems that require a significant amount of hot air to gather towards the ceiling before it spreads out and heats your home, the heat distribution from a boiler tends to be more even. The radiant heat that the boiler produces heats all

This Is How You Protect Your Pipes From the Big Freeze

October 18, 2023

Just like you bundle up with layers of clothing during the winter months, do the same for your plumbing. Snow, ice, and cold temperatures will freeze your pipes into ice and burst when you turn on the faucet. Prevent thousands of dollars in plumbing repairs by protecting your pipes from the big freeze. Insulate Exposed Plumbing Visible outdoor pipes are more prone to freezing than pipes hidden from view. Cover those pipes with foam insulation, heat tape, or heat cables. Shield exposed valves, handles, and faucets with a faucet cover, and insulate exposed pipes in the

3 Ways Furnace Tune-up Services Prevent Heating Emergencies

September 20, 2023

When temperatures in Paxton, IL plummet, you’ll need a functional, fixed heating solution to stay safe and comfortable in your home. Furnace breakdowns place building residents at risk of temperature-related health issues, frozen or burst pipes, and other potentially serious problems. During freezing weather, they can even render homes temporarily uninhabitable. Fortunately, you can avoid the stress, hassle, and extra spending of heating emergencies by scheduling tune-up service. Here’s what you need to know. 1. Furnace Tune-ups Eliminate Built-up Debris and Optimize Airflow Furnace tune-ups include thorough inspections and cleaning of all interior and exterior heating

Is It Better to Replace or Repair the AC in My Home?

August 7, 2023

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system can be a real head-scratcher for any homeowner. Our team at Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing has compiled a list of things to consider if you are trying to decide on a replacement or repairs. No matter what you decide, our experts will gladly help you with any questions you may have. Go for Repairs When It Makes Sense If your HVAC system is acting up and it’s still less than 10 years old, an AC repair should do the trick. Here is a simple rule of thumb: multiply the system’s age by

Top 3 Signs Your AC Needs Repair

July 25, 2023

Regular maintenance will usually keep your air conditioning running smoothly. However, it is essential to be aware of signs that may indicate problems between visits from a HVAC professional. By paying attention to the following three issues, you can address minor problems before they require significant repairs. 1. Warm Air If you notice that warm air is blowing from the vents of your AC, you should check the thermostat first. Ensure that its settings have not been interfered with and have been set correctly. If the system still blows warm air after the check, the problem

Does Regularly Changing the Air Filter Increase Your AC’s Longevity?

June 12, 2023

Summer is in full swing in Urbana. With the temperature rising every day, it’s important that your air conditioner can perform flawlessly so that you don’t end up miserable in your own home. An essential part of maintaining the performance of your air conditioner is regularly changing the air filter. Beyond making sure that your air conditioner can keep your home comfortable, consistent air filter changes can help increase the lifespan of your air conditioner. Here are a few insights on this critical topic from your friends at Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing. Less Run Time When your air filter

3 Reasons Why You Need to Schedule an AC Tune-Up Before Summer

April 24, 2023

As the temperatures rise and the summer season approaches, ensuring that your air conditioning system is in top shape is important. The last thing you want is for your cooling unit to break down in the middle of a heat wave. One way to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the cooling season is by scheduling a tune-up before the warmer weather arrives. Let’s explore why you need an AC tune-up before summer and why having your system checked by a professional is important. 1. Improved Efficiency Your AC system has been idle throughout winter,

Pros and Cons of Installing a Furnace vs. a Heat Pump

March 17, 2023

When it comes to heating your home, there are two main options: a furnace or a heat pump. Both systems offer their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so before you decide which is right for you and your house, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each option. Furnace Pros and Cons A furnace is the most common type of heating system. It works by burning fuel to create heat and distributing the newly generated heat through air ducts. This option offers several advantages, including:

Should You Invest in a Tankless Water Heater?

February 21, 2023

When most people think about a water heater, they think about a tall tank that is situated in their basement. Those tall cylindrical tanks are referred to as tank-style water heaters, and they’re slowly being replaced with more modernized tankless models. If you’re in the market for a new water heater, there are a few different reasons why you should consider investing in a tankless water heater over a tank-style one. Hot Water on Demand One of the biggest benefits of investing in a tankless-style water heater is that it will produce hot water when you