How To Choose The Right IAQ Product For My Needs

Most homes in North America have poor indoor air quality. Thankfully, there are products on the market that can make dramatic improvements to your IAQ. Here are the main options available to you. 1. Air Purifiers An air purifier is an amazing product for people who have allergies or frequently get sick. This device will help them breathe easier and sleep better. Air purifiers can eliminate pollen, odors, volatile organic compounds and other airborne particles. They usually have at least two filters, one being a pre-filter that you’ll need to change regularly. You can get different types of filters based on your needs, and one example is a HEPA filter for allergy sufferers. Other types of filters include activated carbon, antibacterial and ion. Stolhand-Wells Plumbing, Heating, and Air of Ponca City, OK, installs and services whole-home air purifiers. This type of air purifier works with your home’s central heating and cooling system. 2. Dehumidifiers Humidity is a major issue for people living in hot, moist climates. This leads to mold and mildew growing in their homes. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, reducing the humidity level to the ideal range of 40 – 50%. While portable dehumidifiers work, you have...

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Why a Spring HVAC Replacement is a Good Idea

Maybe you’ve had your HVAC system repaired multiple times in the past few years, or maybe your energy bills have gone up or your home just isn’t as comfortable as it’s been in prior years. Here are some reasons to consider replacing your HVAC system in the spring. Nice Weather One thing to consider is that you don’t want your air conditioning system replaced when it’s really hot outside in the summer. After all, you’ll be without any AC while the work is being done. It’s much more bearable to have your AC system work performed when it’s not as hot in the spring. Stolhand-Wells Plumbing, Heating, and Air of Ponca City, OK installs new HVAC systems throughout the year. We’re a BPI Home Performance Certified company that has been in business for more than 40 years. Manufacturer Deals Homeowners don’t need as many heating and cooling services done in the spring when the temperature is mild. You can get better prices, deals and rebates from HVAC companies and dealers in the spring when they aren’t as busy as they are in the summer and winter. Easier Scheduling Since heating and cooling companies are less busy in the spring, they...

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How to Add Home Equity with HVAC Upgrades

Having a quality HVAC system is something that can increase the value of your home. If you do not have an HVAC system or have an old and faulty one, you can actually add equity to your home with an HVAC upgrade. There are three ways that you can add equity to your home by upgrading your HVAC system. 1. Add Central Air and Heat If your home does not have a central air conditioner or furnace, one of the best improvements you can make is to add central air and heat in your property. Adding this will require you to run ductwork and make other improvements, but it will provide you with much more control over your home’s temperature. Homes that have central heating and air will have higher sales prices and more consumer demand, which will add more equity to your home. 2. Energy-Efficient Upgrades Another way that you can add equity to your home is by making energy-efficient upgrades. Today, there are many options for energy-efficient air conditioners and heating units. These units will provide you with great outcomes while also reducing your energy bill. Further, those that are buying homes will often pay a premium for...

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What is HVAC efficiency?

If the cost to heat and cool your home in Stillwater is biting into your budget, HVAC efficiency is something you should be concerned about. It means using the least amount of energy to produce the heating and cooling you need to make your home comfortable. Whether your system is several years old or brand-new, here is what you need to know about HVAC efficiency and what affects it. Air Filters You can immediately improve HVAC efficiency by changing your system’s air filters if they are dirty. A filter that is clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris puts added stress on your system because it compromises your airflow. This affects its efficiency and causes it to use more energy to heat and cool your home. During times of high use, you should check your air filters each month and change them as needed. Ductwork The efficiency of your HVAC system depends on the performance of all its components. A lot of focus is placed on furnaces and air conditioners. However, the ductwork in your home can hurt your system’s efficiency. It is important to have your ducts cleaned and inspected for leaks, including cracks and loose joints that...

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How To Light The Pilot Light on Your Hot Water Heater

If the pilot light on your hot water heater has gone out, don’t worry! Relighting it is a quick and easy process. Keep reading to find out how to light the pilot light on your home’s hot water heater. How to Determine if Your Hot Water Heater Is Automatic or Manual This is an important step because it will determine the steps necessary to relight your pilot light. You’ll start by identifying the silver box sticking out on the side of your hot water heater. Look and see if there’s a button that’s labeled “ignition” on that silver box. If there is, then your hot water heater is an automatic model. If there isn’t, it’s a manual unit. We understand if you have trouble locating this box. Go ahead and contact us at if you need any assistance. We have a lot of experience with hot water heaters and helping customers all over Ponca City. Lighting the Pilot Light on a Manual Hot Water Heater First, get a long lighter. You’ll need one that can reach in the small area. The next thing you need to do is remove the plate that’s just under the silver box sticking out of...

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Tank vs Tankless Water Heaters

When it’s time to get a new water heater for your home, you can choose between a traditional heater and a tankless one. Both systems have a variety of advantages and disadvantages to consider before purchasing. Having the right amount of hot water for your specific needs in your house is important. Here are some of the key differences between the two options. Traditional Water Heaters Water heaters with a tank will keep large amounts of water hot at a time. These systems can take up a lot of space and limit the amount of hot water you have access to. They do allow for multitasking and can provide enough hot water to a variety of appliances at the same time. They’re also far less expensive than tankless water heaters but less energy-efficient. They can also cause a major flood if the tank springs a leak. If upfront costs are a concern when buying a new water heater, a unit with a tank could be right for you. Tankless Water Heaters Tankless water heaters are much smaller units and only produce hot water on demand. These units quickly heat cold water whenever you turn your hot water tap on. These...

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Home Comfort Resolutions for 2020

For your home to thrive, it needs to be taken care of and looked after. The New Year is a great time to start off on the right foot regarding home comfort. Here are some things that you should do in 2020 to enhance the comfort of your home. 1. Change Your Air Filters Your home may not be as comfortable as it could be because your air filters are clogged and dirty. This keeps your HVAC from working properly and also means that you are breathing in dirty air that can sicken too. A new air filter will keep you more comfortable and at the proper temperature. 2. Install Humidifiers Your immune system will perform better during the flu and cold season when there is some humidity in your home air. Your heater dries out the air which makes it more conducive for cold and flu germs to thrive. The optimal level of humidity in your home is between 30% and 50%, and this can be controlled with a humidifier. While it is good to be warm, it is not good to be breathing in dry air in the winter. 3. Give Your HVAC System Some TLC Your HVAC...

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How to Prep Your Plumbing for the Colder Months

By taking a few simple steps before the cold weather arrives, you could prevent outdoor pipes from freezing. Being proactive long before temperatures drop is a smart strategy. Here are a few preventative practices to follow. Check for Leaks Now Leaky pipes can freeze more readily, so get them repaired right away. It can save you money on your utility costs and reduce the odds of the pipe freezing. If you suspect you have a hidden leak, contact a plumbing expert to locate the issue and get it repaired. Properly Protect Exposed Pipes Insulating pipes in unheated locations can slow the freezing process, but it cannot stop it. Wrapping them with fiberglass pipe insulation as well as plastic insulation wrap is a good start. Before insulating in this way, add a second layer of protection by installing a heat cable first. Attach the heat cable to the pipe to keep the pipes warm inside, and then insulate and wrap. The heat cable has a thermostat that knows when to turn the heat on to protect the pipe. Maintain Plumbing Year-Round Keeping up with seasonal plumbing maintenance on your home is vital. It’s particularly important if you notice changes in your...

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What to Do Before Turning on Your Furnace

Autumn is the season when your air conditioner and furnace trade places. Your health and comfort depend on a functional and efficient furnace, so you must take the necessary actions to guarantee that your home is heated safely and effectively. Let’s look at the four steps you should take before firing up your furnace for the colder months. 1. Replace the Air Filter and Check the Ducts It is recommended that you change your air filter every three months or sooner, depending on how soon it tends to become clogged. You can err on the side of caution by replacing your air filter before starting up your furnace, regardless of whether you’ve changed it within three months. Check your ducts for debris blockages and make sure that there are no blockages to the HVAC system’s airflow. If cleaning your ducts is too great a hassle for your schedule or they are not easily accessible, call a professional. For those in Ponca City and Stillwater, can provide reliable duct cleaning services. 2. Clean the Vents Vents tend to attract debris which when left uncleaned can obstruct airflow. Wipe your vents clear of any buildup so that your HVAC system can operate...

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Why Is Water Dripping From My AC Vents?

Finding your air conditioner leaking or dripping water is a common occurrence that isn’t usually a cause for major concern; however, it shouldn’t be ignored. Fortunately, it can generally be fixed with proper AC maintenance. Here are a couple of common reasons why water may leak from your AC vents. Problem: Clogged Air Filter A dirty air filter can cause components of your AC to freeze up and then melt. This can lead to water leaking from the vents. When this happens, it’s a sign that the air conditioner is unable to cool the house correctly and is being overworked. Leaking from the vents can also lead to water damage on walls and other areas of your home. The Fix Air filters have a lifespan that is usually printed on their packaging. For people who use their air conditioners regularly, filters should be changed every four to six weeks. If you have pets, live in a place with lots of pollution or dust, or suffer from allergies, you should change the filter every three weeks. If you don’t use the air conditioner regularly, you may be able to change it twice a year: once in the spring and once in...

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