January 15, 2024

As the winter chill sets in, we all want to retreat to the warmth and comfort of our homes. However, have you ever considered the quality of the air you and your family are breathing indoors? Winter brings with it a unique set of challenges for indoor air quality, and it’s crucial to address them for the health and well-being of your loved ones. At Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we understand the significance of maintaining pristine air quality in your home throughout the colder months. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of home air quality during winter and introduce you to a solution that could revolutionize the way you and your family breathe indoors.The

Winter Air Quality Challenge

During the winter season, we tend to seal our homes tightly to keep the cold out and the warmth in. While this is an effective way to stay comfortable, it also means that indoor air pollutants can become trapped, leading to a decline in air quality. Common issues include increased levels of dust, pet dander, mold, and pollen circulating within your home. For individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, this can be especially problematic.

Whole-Home Air Purifiers – A Comprehensive Solution

To combat the challenges posed by winter air quality, consider the installation of a whole-home air purifier as part of your central heating and cooling system. At Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer cutting-edge solutions that can transform the air you breathe. These purifiers work by directing the air through a specialized filter media, ensuring that clean, purified air is distributed throughout your entire home.

Key Benefits of Whole-Home Air Purifiers

1. Allergy Relief: Families with allergies can benefit significantly from a whole-home air purifier. The advanced filtration system captures and removes allergens, providing relief to those sensitive to airborne particles.
2. Dust Prevention: Winter often brings an increase in dust, exacerbated by closed windows and doors. A whole-home air purifier helps prevent the buildup of dust, keeping your living spaces cleaner and healthier.
3. Mold and Pollen Removal: The filter media in these purifiers is designed to capture and eliminate mold spores and pollen, creating an environment less conducive to respiratory issues.

Take Control of Your Indoor Air Quality

Your home should be a safe haven, and ensuring clean and healthy air is a crucial aspect of creating a comfortable living space. At Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in addressing indoor air quality problems and providing tailored solutions for your specific needs.

Contact Our Experts

Are you concerned about the air quality in your home this winter? Reach out to our experienced team of professionals at Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experts can assess your indoor air quality and help you determine if a whole-home air purifier is the right solution for you. Don’t compromise on the health and comfort of your family—take control of your indoor air quality today!

Conclusion

As winter settles in, make a proactive choice to prioritize the air you breathe. Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to ensuring that your home remains a haven of clean, fresh air throughout the colder months. Take the first step towards a healthier and more comfortable home environment by exploring the benefits of whole-home air purifiers with our knowledgeable team. Breathe easy, and let us help you create the ideal indoor environment for you and your family.

January 10, 2024

As winter sets in, the importance of a reliable and efficient heating system becomes paramount. If you’re still clinging to your old, oil-burning furnace, it might be time to consider making the switch to a cleaner and more efficient alternative – gas furnaces. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of ditching your outdated oil furnace in favor of a high-efficiency gas heating system.

Out with the Old: Say Goodbye to Your Dirty Oil Furnace

Let’s face it – traditional oil furnaces have served us well, but they come with a heavy environmental cost. The combustion of oil generates pollutants and leaves behind a dirty
residue that can accumulate over time. By switching to gas, you’ll be doing both your home and the environment a favor. Gas furnaces burn cleaner, producing fewer emissions and minimizing your carbon footprint.

Efficiency Matters: Gas Furnaces Take the Lead

One of the primary reasons to switch from oil to gas is the efficiency factor. Gas heating systems are renowned for their efficiency, providing a more consistent and reliable heat output compared to oil furnaces. This means you’ll spend less time worrying about whether your home is warm enough and more time enjoying the comfort of a consistently heated space.

Low Maintenance, High Savings: A Win-Win Scenario

Nobody likes spending time and money on furnace maintenance. Gas furnaces offer a significant advantage in this department, requiring much less maintenance compared to their oil counterparts. With fewer components to worry about and a cleaner burning process, you’ll not only save on maintenance costs but also ensure that your heating system runs smoothly throughout the winter season.

Save Big on Your Heating Bills

One of the most compelling reasons to make the switch is the potential for substantial savings on your heating bills. High-efficiency gas furnaces can result in energy savings of up to 50 percent compared to oil systems. This not only benefits your wallet but also aligns with the growing global focus on energy conservation. By investing in a more efficient heating system, you’re not only saving money but also contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

Get a Free Estimate – No Strings Attached

Curious about the costs involved in making the switch? We’re here to help. Give us a call, and one of our heating specialists will be more than happy to schedule a free estimate for you. We pride ourselves on being straightforward and honest, steering clear of pushy sales techniques. We understand that the decision to switch heating systems is a significant one, and we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed choice.

Conclusion

This winter, make the smart move by transitioning from your old, inefficient oil furnace to a high-efficiency gas heating system. Enjoy cleaner, more reliable warmth while simultaneously contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Give us a call today for a free estimate – because comfort and savings should go hand in hand.

September 21, 2023

Here in New York state, we’re lucky to experience what many residents fondly refer to as the “golden time.” This special period occurs twice a year, during the Spring and, more relevantly, the Fall when the weather is just right – not too hot and not too cold. It’s a time when you can open your windows and enjoy the natural breeze, giving your heating and cooling systems a well-deserved break. While we all appreciate the comfort this time brings, it’s also the ideal season to ensure your heating and cooling solutions are in top shape for the winter months through proper maintenance and servicing.

Don’t Wait for the Chill

One common mistake homeowners make is neglecting their HVAC systems until they are absolutely necessary. Waiting until the cold weather arrives to check your heating system can lead to a host of issues.

Firstly, if you suddenly turn on your heater during the first chilly night and it’s been dormant for months, you may be placing undue strain on a system that’s not ready to handle the workload. This can lead to a decrease in the overall lifespan of your heating unit. A well-maintained system not only operates more efficiently but also lasts longer, saving you money in the long run.

Secondly, imagine waiting until the last minute to test your heating unit, only to discover it’s malfunctioning. You could find yourself in a freezing home, desperately trying to get an HVAC technician to your doorstep. In the peak of the heating season, service professionals are often booked solid, leading to days or even weeks of waiting for repairs. Don’t let the sudden cold catch you off guard and unprepared.

Be Prepared, Be Proactive

Instead of waiting for the first snowflake to fall, take a proactive approach this season. Follow these steps to ensure your heating and cooling systems are ready for action:

1. Remove the Cover (if applicable): Start by removing any cover or insulation from your heating unit. This allows proper airflow and prevents your system from overheating.
2. Test Your Heater: Turn on your heater and let it run for several minutes. While it’s running, pay close attention to any unusual noises or smells. Any irregularities should be addressed immediately.
3. Inspect Airflow: Check that warm air is coming out of the vents at the desired temperature. If you notice weak airflow or no heat at all, don’t hesitate to take action.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling a professional HVAC maintenance service in the Fall. This will ensure your system is thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and tuned up for peak performance during the upcoming heating season.

By being proactive and addressing any issues during the “golden time,” you can avoid last-minute emergencies, costly repairs, and discomfort during the colder months.

Choose Cerrone for Your HVAC Needs

When it comes to maintaining and servicing your heating and cooling systems, you need a trusted partner you can rely on. At Cerrone, we have a team of experienced technicians ready to assist you. Our experts will ensure your HVAC system is in excellent condition, providing you with peace of mind and comfort throughout the year.

Don’t wait until the cold weather catches you off guard. Contact Cerrone today to schedule your Fall HVAC maintenance and be confident that your home will remain cozy and comfortable when winter arrives. Don’t let the golden time slip away – seize the opportunity to ensure your heating and cooling systems are ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

August 10, 2023

Summer in Upstate New York is a mixed bag of extreme heat and unexpected rain showers, and we’re having one of our wettest summers yet this year. While these rain showers can offer a refreshing break from the heat, they can also pose a challenge to your HVAC system. Your HVAC system is designed to keep your home comfortable year-round, but it’s important to give it a little extra attention during the stormy summer months. In this article, we’ll explore some simple yet effective ways to protect your HVAC system from the impact of summer storms.

Clear and Maintain Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor HVAC unit is exposed to the elements, making it vulnerable to debris carried by the wind during storms. Before the storm season hits, take some time to clear away leaves, branches, and other debris that may have accumulated around the unit. Ensure that there’s a clear space of at least two feet around the unit to allow proper airflow. This prevents debris from entering the system and obstructing the components.

Invest in a Quality Cover

Consider purchasing a weatherproof cover designed for your specific HVAC unit. These covers are made to shield your unit from rain, debris, and even hail. However, it’s important to note that these covers should only be used when the unit is not in operation, as covering a running unit can cause overheating.

Elevate the Unit

In areas prone to flooding or heavy rain, consider elevating your outdoor unit on a platform. This simple step can prevent water from pooling around the unit, which could lead to damage over time. Additionally, elevating the unit can protect it from debris and dirt that might be carried by strong winds.

Secure Loose Components

Strong winds can cause branches or other objects to collide with your outdoor unit, potentially damaging or dislodging important components. Take a moment to inspect your unit’s panels and fan guards. Ensure they are securely fastened and, if necessary, tighten any loose screws. This can go a long way in preventing unnecessary damage during a storm.

Install a Surge Protector

Lightning strikes and power surges are common during summer storms. Installing a surge protector for your HVAC system can safeguard it from voltage spikes that could otherwise cause irreparable damage to the electrical components. A surge protector is a cost-effective investment that can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Turn Off the System During Lightning

If you know a storm is approaching and lightning is likely, consider turning off your HVAC system during the storm. Lightning strikes can send electrical surges through power lines, which could affect your HVAC system. It’s a simple precaution that can prevent potential damage.

Summer storms can be unpredictable, but by taking a few proactive measures, you can protect your HVAC system from their impact. Clearing debris, investing in a cover, elevating the unit, securing loose components, installing a surge protector, and turning off the system during lightning are all steps that can help safeguard your HVAC system’s performance and longevity. Remember, a little maintenance today can save you from costly repairs tomorrow.

If you encounter any issues with your HVAC system this summer – storm-related or not – our team at Cerrone is here to help. We specialize in providing expert services tailored to New York’s unique climate challenges.

From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, our experienced technicians are dedicated to ensuring your home remains comfortable, rain or shine. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for any HVAC concerns you might have this summer. Stay cool, stay dry, and stay comfortable with Cerrone!

July 10, 2023

As the winter chill sets in, we all want to retreat to the warmth and comfort of our homes. However, have you ever considered the quality of the air you and your family are breathing indoors? Winter brings with it a unique set of challenges for indoor air quality, and it’s crucial to address them for the health and well-being of your loved ones. At Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we understand the significance of maintaining pristine air quality in your home throughout the colder months. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of home air quality during winter and introduce you to a solution that could revolutionize the way you and your family breathe indoors.The

What is the Ideal Level of Humidity for Your Home?

The ideal level of humidity for your home is generally between 30% and 50%. This range ensures a comfortable and healthy living environment for you and your family. If the humidity levels in your home fall below 30%, the air can become too dry, which can lead to various health issues such as dry skin, irritated eyes, and respiratory problems. On the other hand, if the humidity levels rise above 50%, it can create a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.

To measure the humidity levels in your home accurately, you can use a hygrometer, which is readily available in most home improvement stores. By monitoring and adjusting the humidity levels accordingly, you can create a comfortable and healthy living environment for you and your family.

The Benefits of Proper Humidity in Your Home

Maintaining proper humidity levels in your home can have numerous benefits for both your comfort and overall health. Here are some of the key advantages of having the right level of humidity in your living space:

1. Improved Respiratory Health: Dry air can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like dry throat, itchy eyes, and congestion. By adding humidity to the air, you can help alleviate these discomforts and prevent respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies.
2. Enhanced Skin Hydration: Low humidity levels can cause dry and itchy skin, making it more prone to irritation and sensitivity. Proper humidity in your home helps keep your skin hydrated, promoting a healthier and more radiant complexion.
3. Reduced Risk of Infections: Viruses and bacteria thrive in low humidity environments. By maintaining optimal humidity levels, you can decrease the chances of respiratory infections and viruses spreading, helping to protect you and your family from illnesses.
4. Prevented Damage to Furniture and Woodwork: Dry air can cause wooden furniture, flooring, and other woodwork to shrink and crack. Proper humidity levels prevent this damage, preserving the beauty and longevity of your wooden belongings.
5. Enhanced Comfort: Balanced humidity makes the air feel more pleasant and comfortable, reducing static electricity and preventing dry eyes, itchy throat, and static shocks.

By investing in a humidifier and maintaining the recommended humidity level of around 40-50% in your home, you can enjoy all of these benefits and create a healthier, more comfortable living environment for you and your loved ones.

Signs That Your Home’s Humidity Levels are Too High or Too Low

Signs that your home’s humidity levels are too high include condensation on windows and walls, a musty odor, mold growth, and a clammy or sticky feeling in the air. Excessive humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can lead to respiratory problems and allergic reactions. It can also damage furniture, walls, and wooden floors.

On the other hand, signs that your home’s humidity levels are too low include dry skin and hair, static electricity, and cracked furniture or paint. Low humidity can cause dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, exacerbating respiratory issues such as allergies and asthma. It can also damage wooden furniture and musical instruments.

Tips for Controlling Humidity Levels in Your Home

Controlling humidity levels in your home is important for both your comfort and health. Here are some tips to help you maintain the ideal level of humidity:

1. Use a hygrometer: Invest in a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in your home. This device will give you accurate readings and help you determine if you need to increase or decrease humidity.
   
2. Ventilate properly: Proper ventilation is crucial in maintaining optimal humidity levels. Open windows and use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to remove excess moisture from the air.
   
3. Fix leaks and moisture sources: Inspect your home for any leaks or sources of moisture. Fixing these issues will prevent excess humidity and the growth of mold and mildew.
   
4. Use dehumidifiers: If your home has high humidity levels, consider using a dehumidifier. These devices remove excess moisture from the air, creating a more comfortable living environment.
   
5. Consider using a humidifier: In dry climates or during the winter months when indoor heating dries out the air, using a humidifier can help increase humidity levels. This can prevent dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity.
   
6. Properly seal windows and doors: Ensure that your windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering your home.
   
7. Maintain a comfortable temperature: Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature can help regulate humidity levels. Avoid excessively high or low temperatures, as they can impact humidity.
   

By following these tips, with the help of Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC, you can effectively control humidity levels in your home and create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family. Give us a call today!

April 3, 2023

We had the pleasure of being hosted on Glens Falls TODAY’s podcast, Buying Local Glens Falls.

March 7, 2023

As the weather warms up and flowers begin to bloom, many people start to experience the unpleasant symptoms of seasonal allergies. Allergies can make it difficult to enjoy the turn of spring, but there are steps you can take to allergy-proof your home and create a more comfortable living space. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for allergy-proofing your home for spring.

Change Air Filters

One of the most important steps you can take to allergy-proof your home is to change your air filters. Air filters help to trap airborne allergens such as dander, pollen and dust mites, but they can only do their job if they are clean and free of debris. We recommend changing your air filters at least once every three months, or more frequently if you have pets or live in a high-pollution area.

If your family suffers from severe allergies, you should consider upgrading your standard filter to HEPA-rated air filters. Standard filters are designed to keep your system clean from larger particles of dust and debris, but are not as ideal for filtering flowing air in your home. HEPA filters with a MERV rating of 10 or higher can remove more allergy-inducing particles from the air, including the smaller particles that standard filters often miss.

Invest in an Air Purifier

In addition to changing your air filters, investing in an air purifier can also help reduce allergens in your home. Air purifiers work by trapping particles in the air and removing them from your living space. You can look for a purifier with a HEPA filter, which will trap the tiny particles like pollen, dust, and pet dander. 

Keep Your Home Clean and Dust-free 

There’s a reason it’s called spring cleaning. One of the most helpful ways to keep dust and pollen out of your home is to be proactive and consistent in cleaning your home. During spring, pollen levels can be high and can easily make their way into your home. To keep pollen out, keep your windows and doors closed, especially during the morning hours when pollen levels are highest.

Wiping off shelves, windowsills, vacuuming regularly and washing your sheets are the simplest but most foolproof ways to stop the buildup of dust and allergens in your house. Give your pets a good bath every now and then to manage the pollen they’re tracking inside. Try using vacuums with HEPA filters and dusting off surfaces with a damp cloth – to prevent sending pollen into the air as you clean.

Keep an Eye on Humidity Levels

Depending on the temperament of your home, a humidifier may be a helpful addition to your home filter system. In Upstate New York we tend to fluctuate between high and low humidity, typically leaning on the dry side, but as the weather changes it can be hard to predict. 

High humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and dust mites, which can trigger allergies. However, many do not realize dry air is just as bad. When there’s not enough moisture in the air, allergens and pollutants remain airborne longer, leading to asthma and allergy flare-ups.

We have several options of humidifiers available to install, depending on you and your family’s needs. An air conditioner can also be used to control humidity levels in spring and summer months.

Install a UV Light into Your HVAC System

Air circulating in the home can carry potentially harmful airborne particles. A UV Light Kit can kill airborne particles that pass through a home’s heating and cooling system. It is designed to reduce mold and germs and prevent growth of organic matter. Call us at Cerrone Plumbing and Heating to see if this system will work for you and your home.

Put down the tissue box! You want your home to be a safe place where you and your family members can breathe easily. Part of maintaining a safe home environment includes making certain that your household air is as clean as possible. At Cerrone HVAC we can help you with a solution that will make your home environment more healthy and comfortable, for months to come. Give us a call today to keep your spring allergies under control!

February 13, 2023

On January 10, 2023, in her State of the State speech, Governor Kathy Hochul called for the nations’ most aggressive ban on fossil fuels yet in new buildings. During her speech, Hochul urged the State Legislature to phase out the sale of fossil fuel heating equipment in existing residential buildings beginning in 2030, and for commercial buildings, 2035. The Governor also proposed that new residential buildings be all electric by 2025, and commercial buildings be all electric by 2030.

Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a local business that has been on the front line of the evolution of clean energy. Joe Cerrone, the owner and manager, is aware that the future in the industry will be electric: “They are starting to change the laws to push everyone to heat pumps” he said during a recent interview.

A heat pump runs on electricity and can both heat and cool the home. As the industry evolves and changes, Cerrone sees what he calls “hiccups” with covering the heating load of a house: “When a house is converted to be all electric, the heat pump will have a back up strip heater in the unit. So when the heat pump can’t keep up, the electric heater will help cover the load. The issue is that the electrical panels are not large enough to take care of the load of the house. So if the house has a 150-amp panel and with all of the electricity being drawn from it, the panel would have to be upsized to a 400 amp meter” Cerrone said.

Cerrone with his experience in the field of HVAC would recommend a gradual change towards the technology: “Right now, people still like their standard furnaces… They are all hooked up, and the furnaces last for 15 years or so. Right now what I would recommend to customers is if their central air conditioning system needs to be replaced, then replace it with a heat pump” Cerrone said.

There are rebates available to encourage customers to move towards installing heat pumps, offered in ranges between $500 and $5,000. Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has completed the training for the certifications to be an affiliated contractor with the clean heat program; they are one of the few contractors in the area fully trained to offer these rebates and services.

Although the industry is shifting, the technology of heat pumps is not new: “So, we’ve been installing heat pumps, mainly mini-ductless heat pumps, for 15-plus years. So they have been around… It didn’t happen overnight. They have been getting better and better over the years, and in some situations they can take the whole load for the house” Cerrone said.

February 1, 2023

There’s nothing worse than having to take a cold shower in the winter when your water just won’t get hot. Believe it or not, this isn’t always an issue with frozen pipes. More likely, it might be time to get your water heater serviced!

January 17, 2023

The winter months can be challenging for a variety of reasons. As the days grow both colder and shorter families spend more time inside their homes. This is a time when the efficient and effective heating of your home is most important.

To heat your home effectively there are two aspects that are important. How effective the furnace is at producing and distributing heat and how well your home holds the heat. There are a variety of reasons why different rooms in your house may be at different temperatures. You may find that certain rooms are warmer or colder than other rooms. This uneven heating may be due to an aging or undersized HVAC system, leaky ductwork, clogged air filter, drafts or poor home design.

Most furnaces are built to last 15-20 years. A furnace that may be reaching the end of its life span could have the heat output decrease. This decrease will cause rooms close to the furnace to heat adequately and the rooms that are further away not to receive much heat at all. If this is the case it may be time to upgrade to a new system.

Heating systems can also suffer from short cycling. Short cycling is when the furnace kicks on and turns off before it has completed the full heating cycle. The constant on and off motion makes it hard for the furnace to generate enough heat to travel throughout all of the rooms. This type of cycling can be caused by a variety of internal issues in the furnace. If this is an issue, calling for a HVAC technician would be the most efficient way to deal with the problem.

The temperature may be uneven in the home if the furnace is undersized for the demands of the space. This problem can be calculated by determining what BTU heating capacity is needed for the home. To do this you would calculate the total square footage of the home and multiply it by 30. This number is the minimum number of BTUs that your heating system will need. If your heating system is not meeting the minimum of BTU’s needed to heat your home then an upgrade will be needed.

The way air flows from the furnace and in the house can also be an issue. Problems may occur with leaky ductwork. Forced air heating systems run throughout the walls and floors of the house. This ductwork is made out of metal which expands and contracts over time due to the changing temperature. This can create gaps in segments of the ductwork. As the warm air travels from the furnace through the ducts some of the heat will leak out through these gaps. This will reduce the amount of heat that is traveling the length of the ductwork and reduce the amount of heat in the furthest rooms. This problem can be addressed by having the ductwork sealed.

An easier fix for heating your home may be to switch out the air filter. The furnace may have to work harder if the air filter needs to be changed. Clogged air filters are a common reason for uneven heating in the home. When the air filter is clogged the furnace has to work harder to force the air through the dirty filter. This will cause less warm air to make it throughout the rooms of your home. This problem has an easy fix of replacing the existing air filter. When the air filter is replaced each room should go back to the proper temperature.

The way the warm air moves into a room may also affect how the room is heated. When heating vents are closed or obstructed this can cause uneven heating. It is easy to unintentionally place a piece of furniture in front of an air vent. This will restrict the air flow into the room, thereby making it harder to heat. Simply moving the furniture or obstruction out of the way of the heating vent may solve this problem.

Air drafts around windows and doors create uneven heating issues as well. These drafts have nothing to do with the heating system. When you notice a draft in a room, locate it and cover the area with insulation or weather stripping. This will help to bring the room back up to temperature. Air drafts and poor insulation make it harder for the heating system to hold a room at a constant temperature.

Heating can also be affected by poor home design. A home that is designed without the concept of efficient heating has features like wall to wall windows and vaulted ceilings. An HVAC professional may be able to help offset these heating design flaws.

The furnace is your friend and needs professional maintenance performed every year. If you skip these annual services, the system may work less effectively. This means producing less heat, which may leave distant rooms receiving less heat. The team at Cerrone Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning is a resource to consider when looking to troubleshoot your heating issues. With over 25 years of experience, Cerrone is a long-standing and successful company and a part of the community. We can service the furnace and troubleshoot any potential issues, and are happy to help with any of these heating problems. You can trust us to help improve the comfort of your home throughout the winter months.