Kerry’s Blog

Warmer Weather is Coming… Is Your AC System Ready?

young woman enjoying her bouquet of tulips while resting on the window sill at homeOnce the spring season arrives on Long Island, we can start to look forward to warmer outdoor temperatures. That means you may start to think about your air conditioning system, and if it’s ready for the season ahead. One of the best ways to make sure your AC system will be prepared to keep your home nice and cool is by getting annual maintenance.

There are many reasons why regularly maintaining your air conditioning system is a good idea. In this article, we’ll explore some of the benefits to getting annual professional maintenance, and what you as a homeowner can do to help keep your AC system in tip-top shape. We’ll also explain how T.F. O’Brien can help – keep reading to learn more!

What can homeowners do to make sure their AC system is ready?

As a homeowner, the best thing you can do to ensure your air conditioning system is ready for warmer temperatures is to call your HVAC contractor to set up your maintenance service appointment. In preparation for their visit, you should make sure that any debris that may have collected around your outdoor unit is removed, and any vegetation growing around your unit is trimmed away. That will make it easier for your technician to get the job done.

Additionally, you will want to make sure the filter used by your heating and central air conditioning system is clean. It’s a good idea to change this filter regularly, as it helps maintain system efficiency and keeps the dust and dirt particles from collecting in your system.

How can air conditioning maintenance benefit my system?

Some of the main benefits of getting annual maintenance for your AC system include:

  • Promotes Consistent Cooling: Regular maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly, so your home stays evenly cool.
  • Helps Save Energy: Regular maintenance keeps your AC in top shape to maintain its efficiency and reduce energy bills.
  • Helps Avoid Big Repairs: Routine checks can spot and fix small issues before they become big, costly problems.
  • Allows for Cleaner Air: Clean AC systems mean less dust and dirt in your air, making it healthier to breathe.
  • Maintains Your Warranty: Regular service by a professional is often needed to keep your AC’s warranty valid.

How can T.F. O’Brien help?

At T.F. O’Brien, we offer complete air conditioning services to help ensure your AC is ready to keep you and your family nice and cool when the warmer temperatures hit. That includes providing you with the seasonal maintenance you need, as well as offering comprehensive maintenance plans. To learn more about our air conditioning maintenance services, or to schedule an appointment with us, simply give us a call at (516) 488-1800, and we will be more than happy to help you.

Show Your Family Some Love with Cleaner Indoor Air

mother and daughter playingIt’s February, which means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and love is in the air. Unfortunately, during the winter months, our homes are often closed off to the fresh outdoor air – which can mean dust, pet dander, and other particles are also in the air. The good news is that there are effective indoor air quality (IAQ) products that can help.

Maybe you’d like to get better IAQ for your family this winter but aren’t sure what types of products are available. In this article, we’ll talk about different IAQ products, how they keep the air clean in your home, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

IAQ Products & What They Do to Provide Better Indoor Air

Depending on the specific IAQ needs of your home, there are several products available that can help provide fresher, cleaner air for you and your family. These include:

  • High-Efficiency Air Filters: The standard filter on your HVAC system is designed to keep particulates out of your system and help it operate more effectively and efficiently. However, most homes need a higher level of filtration to keep particulates out of the air you and your family breathe. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a high-efficiency air filter can “theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns.” That can be helpful for people who suffer from allergies and other respiratory illnesses.
  • Air Purifiers: Photocatalytic oxidizing air purifiers chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants. For people in your family sensitive to the artificial fragrances often used in household products, an air purifier can improve indoor air quality by removing these compounds.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) Lights: UV germicidal lights can kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses. This can help prevent illness and help keep the air in your home fresher, cleaner, and healthier to breathe.
  • Humidity Regulation: Some homes are too damp, while others are too dry. Overly damp homes can host mold and bacteria growth, making the air in your home smelly and potentially unhealthy. An environment that’s too dry, conversely, can cause your family to experience flaky skin, itchy eyes, and dry throats and noses. Products like dehumidification systems and humidifiers can help regulate the moisture in your home and bring your home’s humidity to the proper level.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the indoor air quality solutions you need.

If you’re ready for a whole-house air quality solution that will help show your family the love this winter, we’re ready to be your IAQ cupids! No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations, and you and your family will be breathing fresher, cleaner air in no time. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 to get started.

How Do I Know if My Heating System Needs Repair?

cold woman wearing winter clothing and blanket indoorsNow that Old Man Winter has arrived on Long Island, you probably have needed to use your heating system to stay warm and comfortable. If your home isn’t as comfortable as you’d like, though, your heating system could use a check-up. Often, heating systems don’t just stop working altogether – there are indications that they may need repairs that occur before a complete breakdown.

The good news is that by recognizing the signs that your heating system may be in trouble, you can often prevent much more expensive repairs or replacements. In this article, we’ll talk about the various types of heating systems most people have in their homes and some of the signs they may give if they need service. And, we’ll tell you how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs Your Heating System May Need Service

It can be difficult to know if your heating system needs repair. Sometimes, finding the signs your specific equipment type might give isn’t easy. Below, we’ve outlined some of the signs for each type of heating system we install – learn more below:

Furnaces

Most people in the Northeastern part of the U.S. have furnaces installed in their homes. Furnaces use fuel, such as gas or oil, to supply heat throughout the home. Here are a few things you should be on the lookout for if you suspect your furnace isn’t working properly:

  • Higher than usual energy bills
  • Foul or burning odors
  • Unusual noises like grinding or squealing
  • Uneven heating throughout the home
  • Carbon monoxide alarm sounding

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you should have your furnace checked out by a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible. If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, you should leave your home at once and call 911. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious illness and can be fatal.

Boilers

Boilers are the second most common type of heating equipment in the Northeast. Using gas or oil, they heat water which is then sent to radiators in each room of your home. The radiators then provide your home with the warmth it needs to keep you comfortable. If your boiler isn’t working effectively, you may notice the following:

  • Radiators not heating well/no heat at all
  • Signs of water leakage near or on the boiler
  • Unusual noises such as pops and pings
  • Low water pressure
  • The pilot light will not stay lit

If you’ve checked your thermostat and that doesn’t seem to be the problem, the next step is to call your HVAC professional. Please note that a leaky boiler can do a lot of damage to your home quickly, so if you notice water collecting around your boiler or see an obvious leak, call as soon as possible.

Heat Pumps

While both ducted and ductless heat pump systems have been used for quite some time in the Southern U.S., they are steadily gaining popularity in the Northeast. That’s because heat pumps offer effective, efficient heating and cooling, all in one unit. If your heat pump needs repair, it will show some signs, including:

  • Increased energy bills for no apparent reason
  • Ice on the coil on the outdoor component
  • Short cycling
  • Poor airflow (this can indicate leaks in ductwork or a clogged filter)
  • Constant operation (please note, during extremely cold weather your heat pump will run more frequently)

Not only is it important to get your heat pump checked as soon as possible if it isn’t heating your home properly, but you’ll also want to consider that you’ll need it for cooling during the summer, too. While it can provide you with high-efficiency, year-round comfort, a problem that goes unchecked can spill over into the next season when you need it for cooling – and nobody wants a total breakdown on a hot summer day!

How can T.F. O’Brien help me get my heating system repaired?

At T.F. O’Brien, we take great pride in providing our customers with complete heating services for furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps, including repair, maintenance, and installation. Our skilled technicians can easily troubleshoot your system and provide effective repair services, helping you and your family get back to comfort quickly. If you need heating repairs, don’t wait – give T.F. O’Brien a call at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Don’t Let Your Boiler Be the Grinch This Holiday Season

woman wearing hat and covered in blanket is unhappy in chilly homeOnce the holidays arrive, our thoughts turn to good times with family and friends, both near and far. We look forward to twinkling lights, giving gifts, food, and celebrations. When we have loved ones gathered in our homes, the last thing we want to think about is our heating system failing. For many people with boiler heating systems in their homes, the boiler currently installed may have some years on it.

Boiler heating is the second most popular type of heating system in North America, following furnace heating. Unlike a furnace, that moves heated air throughout your home, a boiler system produces radiant heat by moving heated water throughout radiators in the home.

The average boiler lasts around 15 years with annual maintenance. But the older a boiler gets, the harder it must work to heat your home. And, the more likely it is that it will need boiler repairs. Don’t let your boiler ruin the festivities this holiday season – notice the signs that it may need repairs before the family starts gathering in your home. Below, we’ll share six of the main signs your boiler will give if it needs repairs, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

6 Ways to Tell If Your Boiler Needs Repair Services

To avoid a full breakdown, it’s important to see the signs that your boiler may be giving you that it needs repair. Here are a few of the ways your boiler may tell you that it’s time to call your HVAC professional:

  • If you notice water around your boiler or see a leak, you should call for repairs right away. A leak can often be remedied quickly by your HVAC technician, but if left unchecked it can lead to damage to electrical components, flooding in your home, and water damage.
  • Low Water Pressure: Weak water pressure can indicate a boiler issue, such as a leak or problems in the boiler’s expansion tank. If pressure drops below the minimum level, your boiler’s safety cutoff switch will automatically turn your boiler off.
  • Radiators Not Heating: If your radiators are not heating properly, there could be air in your system due to a range of possible causes, including sludge buildup. Your technician may need to provide a full system bleed and chemical flushing.
  • Strange Noises: Usually, boilers operate relatively quietly. So if you notice an unusual noise coming from your boiler, you should call to have it checked out as soon as possible. Gurgling noises can indicate air in your system while clanking and banging sounds can mean combustion problems.
  • Pilot Light Issues: If your boiler’s pilot light isn’t staying lit, it could be the result of a dirty or damaged thermocouple. The thermocouple is an automatic safety shutoff device that keeps the gas valve from opening if the pilot light goes out.
  • Unusual Odors: If your boiler has not been working as it should and you notice an unusual, foul smell, this should not be ignored. That’s because it could be the result of a carbon monoxide leak. While CO doesn’t have an odor itself, the odor comes from your boiler’s failure to burn properly. A carbon monoxide leak can quickly lead to illness and can even be fatal, so if you suspect a leak, leave your home immediately and call 911 for assistance.

Of course, there are other signs such as increased energy use, higher utility bills, and inadequate heating in general. Even if you’re not entirely sure if your boiler needs repair, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call your HVAC contractor.

T.F. O’Brien offers complete boiler services to meet your needs.

Don’t let a costly boiler breakdown be your Grinch this holiday season – you’ll stay toasty warm in your home all winter long when you choose T.F. O’Brien to provide you with complete boiler services. Whether you need boiler maintenance, repair, or installation, we can help. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be more than happy to help you with your boiler needs.

What to Expect from a Full-Service Heating Contractor

Technician in uniform using tablet to check list of maintenance and cleaning filters of ductless system. Now that the cooler weather has arrived, homeowners have turned their thoughts to keeping their homes warm and cozy. Whether they own a furnace, boiler, or heat pump system, they want to know that they can rely on their heating contractor to meet their needs, from annual maintenance and repairs to system replacement.

A reliable contractor offers a complete listing of services, as well as quality replacement equipment and any ancillary products, such as filters or indoor air quality equipment. In this article, we’ll outline the services you need to ensure that your home heating system is ready to keep you and your family warm all winter long, and we’ll explain how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Heating Maintenance

Heating maintenance is one of the most important services an HVAC contractor can provide for their customers. That’s because seasonal preventive maintenance is vital for heating system effectiveness and efficiency. When properly maintained, a heating system will likely last much longer than a neglected system. And, annual heating system maintenance helps to keep any manufacturer warranties intact, so customers will have less worry about out-of-pocket expenses should the system need repairs. Your contractor should be able to provide yearly maintenance, as well as ancillary services throughout the year, such as filter recommendations and replacement.

Heating Repair

If you’ve had annual maintenance on your furnace, boiler, or heat pump, the need for repairs will generally be less frequent, and usually less costly because maintenance helps to catch any small issues before they become large, more expensive ones. However, like any type of complex machinery, a home heating system is likely to need some sort of repair service during its lifespan. A good heating contractor will be able to troubleshoot your system, make recommendations as to what the best repair options might be, and complete your repairs promptly. And, if the system is beyond repair, or repairs will likely be extremely expensive, your contractor should be able to recommend an appropriate replacement solution.

Heating Replacement & Installation

Most heating systems can be expected to last between 10-20 years. The better it has been maintained, the longer you can expect your heating system to last. When it’s time to replace your system, it’s important to choose a contractor who not only provides quality equipment and expert installation but can also help you get any other heating service you might need. An experienced contractor can help you choose the best system for your home, budget, and lifestyle needs, and can make sure the system you choose is properly sized for your home.

T.F. O’Brien offers complete heating services for your home.

You can rely on T.F. O’Brien to provide you with the heating solutions you need to stay comfortable, no matter how chilly it gets outside. Our skilled technicians can provide maintenance and repair on a wide range of heating system brands and types, so whether you have a furnace, boiler, or heat pump system in your home, we can help you keep it maintained properly, and make any repairs, should you need them. And, when the time comes to replace your heating system, we’re pleased to offer you equipment from brands you can trust. Plus, we offer a wide selection of replacement filters in our online filter store, so you won’t have to deal with finding a replacement for your dirty filters again.

When you need heating services for your home, count on T.F. O’Brien to help. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and to schedule an appointment with you.

Feel Better This Fall with Improved Indoor Air Quality

Young woman wrapped in blanket drinking hot teaFall is here, and with it comes all the wonderful things that the season brings – changing leaves, colorful home decorations, and yes, pumpkin spice everything. Unfortunately, the fall season can also bring along seasonal allergies and viruses, both of which can leave you feeling sniffly and sneezy. The good news is that there are many products available that can help keep allergens and viruses at bay in your home, helping you and your family enjoy a healthier fall season.

In this article, we’ll talk about some of the products available that can help to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) by removing unwanted particulates from the air you and your family breathe. And, we’ll explain how T.F. O’Brien can help you get these products – and improved IAQ for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

Three Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Learn more about IAQ products that have been specially designed to clear the air in your home:

  • High-Efficiency Air Cleaners: Most heating and cooling systems use a filter that helps keep larger particles, like dust and dirt, out of your home’s air. But the main function of your furnace filter is to help keep your system running efficiently and to help keep the inner components of your system clean. Often, people find that they need more advanced filtration, and that’s where air cleaners come in. This product helps to remove other particles, like spores and pollen, from your indoor air – and that can make a big difference to the allergy sufferers in your household.
  • Air Purifier: A photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier works to improve your indoor air quality by chemically treating the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants. People with sensitivity to chemicals and synthetic scents often find that their symptoms improve once an air purifier is installed.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) Germicidal Lights: Once the kids are back to school, many families find themselves dealing with all sorts of viral and bacterial illnesses. Ultraviolet germicidal lights can kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses.

All three of these products are often installed together and work in conjunction with each other to tackle the toughest IAQ problems. A professional HVAC contractor can help you make the right choice when it comes to which products may be best for your home.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the IAQ solutions you need.

If you’re ready for a whole-house air quality solution that will ensure a safe, healthy environment your family and guests can truly enjoy, call us. No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations. Then, our professional technicians will install the needed IAQ solutions – and you and your family will be breathing fresher, cleaner air in no time. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 to get started.

Why Choose a Heat Pump for My Home?

mother and children sit on sofa reading bookHave you been thinking about replacing an old home comfort system, but are interested in newer technology and higher energy efficiency? Then it might be time for you to consider a heat pump system. While heat pumps have been around for a while, many people in the Northeastern part of the country are just learning about their many advantages.

That’s because for a while, heat pumps weren’t made to operate in cooler climates. But, over the years they have advanced and are now cold-climate capable, making them a great choice for home comfort even in areas where the temperatures can dip down significantly during the winter months. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of heat pump systems, and tell you how T.F. O’Brien can help you get the right heat pump model for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Benefits of Heat Pump Systems

Most people who are interested in heat pump technology for their homes scour the web for information. We’ve made it easy for you to explore some of the benefits of heat pump systems, including:

  1. Year-Round Comfort: For many homeowners, the main attraction of a heat pump system is that it offers cooling and heating all in one system, so they don’t have to replace two separate units. During the summer months, the system extracts the heat inside your home and pumps it outdoors. In the winter months, the process is reversed, drawing heat from outdoor air, and pumping it into your home.
  2. High Efficiency: One of the main benefits of a heat pump system is their high efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, today’s heat pump can reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces and baseboard heaters. They also mention that high-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than standard central air conditioners, resulting in less energy usage and more cooling comfort in summer months. That means you’ll save money on your utility bills, all while enjoying improved comfort all year long.
  3. Clean Comfort: For those concerned about the environment, a heat pump system is ideal. That’s because heat pumps don’t use fossil fuels to heat your home. As the world looks toward renewable energy and cleaner cooling and heating, heat pumps are considered a much more earth-friendly option for home comfort.
  4. Multiple Configurations: Heat pumps are available in many different configurations, including air-sourced and geothermal. Additionally, they are available in both ducted and ductless That means, if you’re replacing a central heating and air conditioning system, a ducted heat pump is the ideal choice. If your home doesn’t have a duct system and you want to replace old electric baseboard heat and window AC units, ductless is a great option.
  5. Excellent Incentives: Because of their energy efficiency and cleaner operation, there are often excellent incentives available for heat pump systems. For instance, NYS Clean Heat and PSEG offer incentives on heat pump installation, and there are incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act as well.

How can T.F. O’Brien help me get a heat pump system for my home?

At T.F. O’Brien, we know how important it is for our customers to be comfortable while enjoying better energy efficiency in their homes. That’s why we’re pleased to offer heat pumps in both ducted and ductless configurations. When you work with us on a heat pump system for your home, we’ll make sure you get the right model for the size of your home and your unique needs. We can help you learn more about taking advantage of various incentive programs. And, we’ll provide you with professional installation of your new system, as well as maintenance so that it lasts a long time.

If you’d like to find out more about heat pumps, all you need to do is give us a call at 516-488-1800, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Air Quality Warning? We Can Help You Breathe Easier.

smoky sky from wildfiresThis summer, we have seen many days where the outdoor air quality is poor due to the wildfires in Canada. Just when it seems like we’re in the clear, the fires ramp up again bringing hazy smoke to Long Island. Many people wonder what they can do to stay safe during the wildfires, and aren’t sure if there are any products available that can help.

In this article, we’ll share some of the most frequently asked questions about the Canadian wildfires and the smoke they have been producing. We’ll also tell you what T.F. O’Brien can do to help you ensure that the air in your home is as fresh and clean as possible. Keep reading below to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Canadian Wildfires

Are the Canadian wildfires over?

Unfortunately, no. As of July 18, there were still more than 880 active fires across Canada. Because it has been very difficult to get the wildfires under control, it is likely that we in New York will still be affected by the residual smoke for some time.

What kind of fumes are emitted by wildfires?

Wildfire smoke is typically a mixture of particulates, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, nitrogen oxides, and trace minerals. This smoke is from the burning of trees and other vegetation. When homes and other structures succumb to wildfire as well, other chemical compounds are released into the air.

Who is most at risk for health concerns when breathing wildfire smoke?

While breathing in wildfire smoke is not ideal for anyone, there are certain members of the population that need to take extra precautions. People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory diseases are at very high risk, as well as anyone with cardiopulmonary concerns. Children, the elderly, and those who are pregnant or nursing should also take additional safety members. Anyone who works outdoors should consider wearing protective gear when there is an air quality alert in their area.

Does running my air conditioning system help?

If you have a central air conditioning system or a ductless system, running your system may help keep the air cleaner in your home. Window air conditioning systems may not be as effective unless they have a tight seal with the window frame. Otherwise, the polluted air can leak in. Portable air conditioner use may result in outdoor smoke being drawn into the home.

Are there any indoor air quality products that can help me and my family stay safer?

Proper filtration and air cleaning are key, especially for anyone who could be at increased risk of health problems due to wildfire smoke. T. F. O’Brien can help you get the right filter for your HVAC system and help you with advanced air cleaning as well.

We help you filter the air in your home by installing a highly efficient air cleaner. This is a much more effective solution than standard filters. And, we can install a photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier to chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants like smoke.

Trust T.F. O’Brien to help you get the advanced air filters and air cleaners you need.

Of course, you can always count on T.F. O’Brien to help you should you have any additional concerns about the quality of the air in your home. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to help you.

5 Reasons Why Changing Your HVAC Filter is Important

person changing HVAC filterIf you’ve been reading our articles for a while, you know that one thing we always tell our customers is that it’s important to change the filter in their HVAC system on a regular basis. No matter what the weather is, it’s likely that you’re either running your heating system or cooling system often and as a result, your filter is probably working hard to keep particles out of your furnace or air conditioner – and out of the air in your home.

For more information,
Call or click here:

516.488.1800

But you might not know the actual benefits of changing your HVAC filter, or the different types of filters available. In this article, we’ll share five reasons why changing your filter regularly is important, the types of filters available, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Benefits of Changing Your HVAC Filter Regularly

When we talk about changing your filter on a “regular basis”, this generally means monthly when your system is operating frequently, or whenever the filter becomes dirty. Here are the top five reasons why you should consider changing your HVAC filter often:

  1. System Efficiency: A dirty filter makes it harder for your HVAC system to work, and that usually means it uses more energy to keep your home cool or warm. A clean filter allows the air to pass freely through the system, keeping your system efficient and helping you save money on utility costs.
  2. System Longevity: As we mentioned above, if your filter is dirty, your system needs to work harder to do its job. Over time, that can create additional wear and tear on your system. Not to mention, your HVAC system’s components will corrode faster – and that can take years off the life of your system.
  3. Improved Home Comfort: A clean filter allows the cooled or heated air to move throughout your home more effectively. When your HVAC system is working effectively and efficiently, it just stands to reason that you and your family will enjoy better comfort all throughout your home.
  4. Cleaner, Fresher Indoor Air: While the main purpose of an HVAC filter is to keep particulates out of your equipment, a dirty filter often means that the air in your home is not as clean as it should be. By changing the filter regularly, those particles will be trapped in the filter, and not in the air you breathe.
  5. Fewer Repairs: Regularly changing the filter in your HVAC system is one of the things you can do to help maintain your system, along with annual maintenance by a qualified professional. When your furnace and air conditioning system are properly maintained, they’ll be less likely to need costly repairs.

What types of filters are available for my HVAC system?

There are many different types of filters available for HVAC systems today, ranging from very simple paper filters to more advanced HEPA filters. It is very important to use the right type of filter for your system. Many people think that a filter with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating is best for their HVAC system and home, but unfortunately, too high of a rating may tax your system and make it less efficient.

The best way to know what type of filter is best for your system is to either check the system manual for the recommended filter type or to ask your HVAC professional. Ultimately, the best choice for your heating and cooling equipment is to use the proper filter per manufacturer recommendations and to change it regularly.

Can T.F. O’Brien help with my filter needs?

Of course! At T.F. O’Brien, our skilled technicians are always able to help you choose the correct filter for your HVAC system and show you how to properly change it. And, we’re excited to announce that you can now order your filters directly from T.F. O’Brien. Our new filter shop carries a comprehensive range of filter types, so you can rest assured that you’ll be using the appropriate filter for your system.

Visit Our Filter Shop

If you have any questions about our filter shop or what type of filter you need, you can always contact us online or call us at 516.488.1800, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Keeping Safe During Poor Air Quality Alerts

woman looks out at haze and smoke caused by wildfireAt T.F. O’Brien, it’s always a priority to help our customers stay safe and comfortable. With the recent wildfires in Canada and the subsequent effect they’re having on our local environment, you might be concerned about the outdoor air quality, and how you can stay safe. It isn’t as simple as staying indoors until the poor air quality warnings expire, because that outdoor air can find its way into your home and cause issues for you and your family.

We’ve put together a few suggestions for keeping the polluted air out of your home:

  1. Wear a mask if you need to go out, especially if you have respiratory concerns. Masks can help you keep from inhaling pollutants, like pollen or smoggy air. Make sure the mask fits tightly around your nose and mouth.
  2. Keep your windows closed, and only open outside doors when necessary. While it’s always tempting to open windows this time of year, on days when the air quality outside is poor it’s a good idea to keep them shut – and keep the pollutants outside.
  3. Avoid running window fans and window AC units. This can bring polluted air indoors. And while you can’t see the particles in the air caused by fires or pollinating plants and trees, they’re there, and can easily enter your home via your fans or air conditioners. If you have a good filter on your central air conditioner, that should be okay to run.
  4. Check the air quality regularly. As we’ve seen recently, the air quality can change dramatically over the course of just a few hours. The AirNow website has up-to-date information as well as air quality forecasts so that you can plan accordingly.
  5. Consider air purification. An air purifier can help to remove pollutants from the air in your home. You can buy portable air purifiers at most department and home improvement stores. If you or a family suffers from respiratory conditions, you may want to talk to T.F. O’Brien about whole-home air quality solutions.

Of course, you can always count on T.F. O’Brien to help you should you have any additional concerns about the quality of the air in your home. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to help you.