4 Quick Tips for a Lower Heating Bill During Winter

As the temperature drops, heating costs can quickly rise. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to reduce your heating bill without sacrificing comfort. By making small adjustments and being proactive, you can keep your home warm while saving money. At River City Heating & Air, we provide heating system service that helps to keep your system operating at peak efficiency. Here are four tips to help you lower your heating bill this winter. Seal Air Leaks Air leaks are one of the main culprits of heat loss in homes, making your heating system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Check windows, doors, and any other potential drafty areas for gaps or cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these openings and keep warm air inside. Use a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature based on your schedule, helping you avoid unnecessary heating when no one is home. You can set the temperature to be lower while you're at work or sleeping and have it automatically increase just before you return or wake up. Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees while you're away can result in significant savings over the course of the winter. Properly Insulate Your Home Proper insulation is key to keeping the warmth inside your home. Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and basement to ensure it's adequate. If you have older insulation or gaps, consider upgrading to more energy-efficient materials. Adding insulation to areas like your attic and crawl spaces can greatly reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer and reducing the workload on your heating system. Maintain Your Heating System Regular maintenance of your heating system can help it run efficiently and reduce energy consumption. Schedule an annual furnace inspection to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Change the air filters regularly to promote good airflow and prevent your system from working harder than necessary. A well-maintained heating system not only uses less energy, but also extends its lifespan. Heating System Maintenance in Bismarck, ND When you need heating system service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for your HVAC needs!

As the weather cools down, your furnace becomes essential for keeping your home comfortable and safe. But like any mechanical system, your furnace may develop issues. Recognizing these problems early can help prevent more expensive repairs and ensure your system runs efficiently throughout the season. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert furnace repair in the greater Bismarck area. Here are five signs of furnace trouble. Strange Noises If your furnace starts making unusual sounds—such as banging, rattling, or squealing—this could indicate a mechanical problem. These noises may signal loose components, a failing blower motor, or issues with the ignition system. Addressing strange sounds early can prevent further damage and extend the life of your furnace. Inconsistent Heating If certain rooms in your home are much warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign of a furnace problem. This could be due to poor airflow, malfunctioning thermostats, or issues with the furnace's heating elements. Inconsistent heating not only affects comfort, but can also lead to higher energy bills if the furnace is overworking to compensate for the uneven distribution. Frequent Cycling A furnace that frequently turns on and off, known as short cycling, is a common issue. This can be caused by problems such as a clogged air filter or an oversized furnace. Short cycling can wear out your system faster and result in inefficient heating. Weak Airflow If your furnace is producing weak airflow, it may struggle to distribute heat effectively throughout your home. This issue could stem from a failing blower motor, dirty air filters, or blocked vents. Insufficient airflow can make your furnace work harder, leading to higher energy costs. Unusual Odors Persistent or strong odors can indicate a problem. If you smell something like burning plastic or gas, it could mean there’s an electrical issue or a gas leak. In such cases, it’s important to shut off the furnace and call a professional immediately to avoid any safety risks. Furnace Repair in Bismarck, ND For HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

As the colder months approach, ensuring that your furnace is in top condition is crucial for comfort and safety. Professional furnace maintenance in the fall offers numerous advantages, helping you avoid breakdowns during winter and ensuring your system runs efficiently. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert HVAC maintenance in the greater Bismarck, ND area. Here are five benefits of scheduling professional furnace maintenance before cold weather returns. Increased Energy-Efficiency Regular furnace maintenance helps keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Debris can build up in the furnace, causing it to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By having a professional clean and inspect your furnace in the fall, you can ensure that it operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills. Reduced Risk of Breakdowns Fall maintenance can help identify and fix small issues before they escalate into major problems during the winter months. A professional technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace for any signs of wear and tear, faulty parts, or potential safety hazards. By addressing these issues early, you minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns when you need your furnace the most. Extended Lifespan Like any other mechanical system, regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your furnace. A well-maintained furnace is less likely to suffer from major malfunctions and will generally last longer than a neglected system. By investing in professional maintenance, you help protect your furnace from premature wear and tear. Improved Air Quality During furnace maintenance, the technician will have the opportunity to clean or replace air filters and remove dust and debris that can accumulate inside the system. This helps to improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of dust and allergens that circulate through your home. Cleaner air means a healthier living environment, particularly important during the colder months when homes are often sealed up tightly. Enhanced Safety A professional furnace inspection includes checking for potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions. These issues can pose serious health risks to your household. Fall maintenance helps ensure that your furnace is operating safely and efficiently, providing peace of mind as you enter the heating season. HVAC Maintenance in Bismarck, ND When you need HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

During the hot summer months, ensuring your air conditioning system is in optimal condition is a priority. While some homeowners may be tempted to handle maintenance themselves, there are several benefits of investing in professional AC maintenance. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert HVAC maintenance in the greater Bismarck, ND area. Here’s a look at four advantages of professional AC maintenance. Enhanced Efficiency One of the primary benefits of professional AC maintenance is improved system efficiency. Dirt, and debris can accumulate in your AC unit, causing it to work harder to cool your home. A professional technician can thoroughly clean and inspect your system, ensuring that all components are functioning correctly and efficiently. This not only helps your AC unit cool your home more effectively, but can also reduce energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills. Prolonged System Lifespan Regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system. During a professional maintenance visit, technicians can identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach helps prevent costly breakdowns and helps ensure that your AC unit remains in good working condition for years to come. Improved Indoor Air Quality A well-maintained AC system plays a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality. Dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens can accumulate in your system and be circulated throughout your home if not properly addressed. Professional maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters, as well as inspecting other components. This helps to reduce the presence of airborne contaminants, contributing to a healthier living environment for you and your family. Consistent and Reliable Cooling Few things are more frustrating than an AC unit that fails to provide consistent and reliable cooling during the hottest days of the year. Professional maintenance ensures that your system is running at peak performance, providing even and reliable cooling throughout your home. Technicians can check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, and test the system's performance to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This attention to detail helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensures your home remains comfortably cool. AC Maintenance in Bismarck, ND When you need HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

During the hot summer months, many of us rely heavily on air conditioning to stay cool and comfortable. However, running your AC non-stop can lead to sky-high energy bills. The good news is, there are several effective ways to reduce your air conditioning expenses without sacrificing comfort. One such way is to make sure your AC is running as efficiently as possible. At River City Heating & Air, we provide AC service in Bismarck that will help to keep your air conditioning system operating at optimal efficiency. Here’s a look at five tips for lowering your AC expenses during the summer. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings One of the simplest ways to save on cooling costs is to adjust your thermostat settings wisely. Set your thermostat to the highest temperature that is still comfortable for you and your family. Using a programmable thermostat makes it easy to sync your cooling schedule with your daily routine. Use Fans to Supplement Cooling Ceiling fans are excellent companions to your air conditioner. Fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler, allowing you to raise your thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort. Remember to turn off fans when you leave the room, as fans cool people, not spaces. Seal Up Ensure that your home is properly sealed and insulated to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from seeping in. Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal them as necessary. Limit Heat Gain Inside Your Home Take steps to minimize heat gain from sunlight streaming through windows. Use curtains, blinds, or shades to block out direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Also, avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens and clothes dryers during peak daytime hours. Regular Maintenance of Your Air Conditioner Keep your air conditioning unit in excellent condition by scheduling regular maintenance. During peak summer use, change or clean the air filters every month or as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure efficient airflow. Clean the outdoor unit regularly to remove dirt and debris that can obstruct airflow. A well-maintained AC system operates more efficiently and consumes less energy. AC Service in Bismarck, ND When you need HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

As the summer heat starts to roll in, air conditioners become integral to our efforts to stay cool and comfortable. Because AC issues can worsen quickly, it’s always best to call in a professional when you first notice evidence of a problem. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert AC repair in the greater Bismarck, ND area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of an AC problem. Weak Airflow One of the most noticeable signs of an AC problem is weak airflow. If you find that your vents are barely blowing out any air or the airflow seems weaker than usual, it could indicate issues with your AC's compressor or ductwork. Clogged air filters can also restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder and less efficiently. Strange Noises Unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or squealing could be a sign of loose or damaged parts within the system. Ignoring these sounds could lead to more severe damage and costly repairs. So, if your AC starts making a racket, it's time to call in the professionals. Blowing Warm Air Perhaps the most obvious sign that something's wrong with your AC is if it's blowing warm air instead of cool. This could be due to a variety of issues, including low refrigerant levels, a malfunctioning compressor, or a faulty thermostat. Whatever the cause, it's important to address it promptly. Frequent Cycling Rapid cycling can put unnecessary strain on your system and lead to increased energy bills. It could be caused by issues such as a wrong-sized unit or a malfunctioning thermostat. A professional inspection can help pinpoint the problem and restore your AC's normal cycling pattern. Foul Odors Musty or foul smells emanating from your vents could indicate mold or mildew growth within your ductwork or evaporator coil. These issues not only affect air quality, but can also impact the efficiency of your AC system. Addressing the source of the odor promptly is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. AC Repair in Bismarck, ND When you need HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. We can expertly address your residential and commercial HVAC needs. Feel free to give us a call today to set up an appointment!

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it's time to shift the focus from heating our homes to keeping them cool and comfortable. With summer just around the corner, ensuring your air conditioning system is in top shape is essential for beating the heat. At River City Heating & Air, our local HVAC company can conduct AC service that will get your air conditioning system ready for the hot days of summer. Here’s a look at four tips for preparing your AC for summertime. Schedule a Professional Inspection Before the heat of summer arrives, it's wise to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your air conditioning system. A thorough inspection can uncover any issues that may have arisen since the system was last used. The technician will check for leaks, do any necessary cleaning, and ensure that all components are functioning correctly. Addressing issues early can help ensure that your system operates efficiently throughout the summer months. Replace Air Filters Air filters can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, reducing airflow and forcing the system to work harder to cool your home. This decreases efficiency, potentially leading to increased energy bills and premature wear and tear on the system. Check your air filters monthly and replace them as needed, typically every 1-3 months depending on usage and the type of filter. Clean the Outdoor Unit The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system, known as the condenser unit, can accumulate dirt and debris, hindering its ability to operate efficiently. Before the start of summer, it’s important to clean the area around the outdoor unit and remove any obstructions that may restrict airflow. Also, it’s smart to clean the unit's exterior and coils. This simple maintenance can improve the system's performance and extend its lifespan. Check and Seal Ductwork Leaky ductwork can significantly impact the efficiency of your air conditioning system by allowing cool air to escape before it reaches its intended destination. Your home’s ductwork should be inspected for any signs of damage or leaks, such as loose connections or tears. Properly sealed ductwork improves comfort and helps to lower energy costs. AC Service in Bismarck, ND When you need HVAC service in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Among homeowners throughout the country, tankless water heaters have been gaining popularity for their efficiency and convenience. Unlike traditional water heaters that store and constantly heat water in a tank, tankless water heaters provide hot water on-demand, heating water only when needed. This offers numerous advantages. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert tankless water heater installation in the greater Bismarck area. Here’s a look at four advantages of tankless water heaters. Endless Hot Water Supply One of the most significant advantages of tankless water heaters is their ability to provide an endless supply of hot water. Unlike traditional tank heaters that can run out of hot water, leaving you with cold showers or waiting for the tank to refill and reheat, tankless heaters heat water as it flows through the unit. This means you can enjoy hot showers, run multiple appliances, and meet the demands of your household without worrying about running out of hot water. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Tankless water heaters are renowned for their energy-efficiency, which can translate into significant cost savings over the long term. Unlike conventional tanks that constantly heat water to maintain a set temperature, tankless models only heat water when needed. This on-demand heating reduces energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. Space-Saving Design Another notable benefit of tankless water heaters is their compact and space-saving design. Traditional water heaters with large tanks can take up valuable space in basements, closets, or utility rooms. In contrast, tankless units are significantly smaller and can be mounted on walls or inside cabinets, freeing up valuable floor space. Longer Lifespan Tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank heaters. While traditional tanks may last around 10-15 years with regular maintenance, tankless units can last upwards of 20 years or more when properly maintained. Tankless Water Heaters in Bismarck, ND For water heater services in Bismarck and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Our nearby HVAC company specializes in water heater sales and service, as well as other heating and cooling needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Furnaces play a crucial role in keeping our homes warm and comfortable during the colder months. However, furnaces can be prone to electrical issues. If you suspect that your furnace has an electrical issue, it'll be best to call in an HVAC professional for an inspection before the problem escalates. At River City Heating & Air, we provide expert furnace repair in the greater Bismarck, ND area. Here’s a look at four common furnace electrical problems. Faulty Thermostat The thermostat serves as the control center for your furnace, regulating the temperature in your home. A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to erratic temperature changes or a general failure of the heating system. Sometimes, thermostats suffer from loose or corroded wires. Worn-out Capacitors Capacitors store and release electrical energy to help start the furnace's motor. As they age, these components can wear out, leading to motor failure. Signs of a faulty capacitor include a humming sound without the motor starting or intermittent operation. If you suspect a capacitor issue, it's best to consult a qualified technician for an inspection and potential replacement. Malfunctioning Ignition System For gas furnaces, the ignition system is a critical component responsible for lighting the burners. Electrical problems in the ignition system can result in the furnace failing to ignite, leading to a lack of heat. Damaged Wiring Wiring connects various components of the furnace and ensures the smooth flow of electricity. Over multiple winters of heavy use, wires can become frayed, corroded, or damaged, leading to electrical problems. Damaged wires should be promptly brought to the HVAC technician’s attention for replacement. Handling electrical components can be dangerous, so it's important to seek professional assistance to address the issue safely. Furnace Repair in Bismarck, ND When you need heating system repair in Bismarck, ND and the surrounding area, contact River City Heating & Air at (701) 561-0804. Our local HVAC company can expertly address your residential and commercial heating system needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!