Fall Maintenance Checklist

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

It’s that time of year again. Fall is here and winter is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to check your HVAC system. Your heating and cooling system, like all major electrical appliances, needs regular maintenance to ensure it operates at peak performance, which can save you money and headaches down the road.  Follow our fall maintenance checklist to keep your system running smoothly all season long.

  1. Check and replace your filters – The most important thing you can do at home is inspect the air filter and change it as needed. A dirty or clogged filter makes your system operate less efficiently and can cause unnecessary wear and tear. A good rule of thumb is to replace your filter every month, especially during heating and cooling season.
  2. Clean your registers – Keeping your registers and ducts clear of dust and debris is crucial for your HVAC system to run smoothly. Wipe down your registers often and have your duct system professionally cleaned and inspected at least once every three years.
  3. Keep your AC and furnace clear of debris – Check your outdoor air conditioning unit for leaves, dirt, sticks, or other debris and if necessary, use a hose to clean the top and sides. Make sure the unit is turned off inside before cleaning. This allows for maximum airflow to the fan and increases the efficiency of your system. In addition, remove debris or anything that blocks airflow from your furnace and keep the area clean.
  4. Use ceiling fans and give your HVAC system a break – Although summer is winding down, we’re still enjoying warmer weather that requires air conditioning. Instead of running the AC 24/7, try using ceiling fans to give your system a well-deserved break. On hot fall days, ceiling and portable fans circulate air through the home to help bring the temperature down quicker. On cooler days, try opening your windows and turning on the fans to circulate the cool air into the house to keep it comfortable. Giving your system a break will extend its life and save you money on repairs down the road.
  5. Shut down the AC for winter and inspect it for damage – Running your air conditioner nonstop all summer can take a toll on the unit. When the cold weather hits, turn off your AC and check for damage such as cracks or leaks in the refrigerant lines. Also, check to see that the fan is operational and not damaged from falling debris.
  6. Replace batteries on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors – Fall is the perfect time to check all your home’s alarms. Alarms should be tested every six months. Replace the batteries if necessary.
  7. Listen for unusual noises – Unusual noises coming from your HVAC system are often a result of blockages, debris in the vents, or loose bolts on the furnace or heat registers. If you hear an odd noise, try to locate the source, then call an HVAC technician for an inspection.
  8. Turn on the heat now – Don’t wait until the first freeze to test your furnace. Turn on the heater now when temperatures are mild to check for any issues. It’s a good idea to have your furnace inspected and tuned up once a year. Call your heating and cooling technician to schedule an appointment.
  9. Know when to call a pro – Many HVAC manufacturers require annual preventative inspections to maintain the unit’s warranty. Review your system’s warranty to determine whether you need professional service. It’s better to have your furnace inspected in the fall before the technicians get too busy. Your heating and cooling professional will check your system for issues, make adjustments to loose wires or bolts, and address any other problems you may have with your unit.

Following these fall maintenance tips will help prepare your home for winter and uncover any issues you may have that need professional attention. Planning early can prevent expensive repair costs and keep you comfortable all season long.

The experts at WestAIR Heating & Cooling are here to assist with all your HVAC needs. Contact us today to schedule service.  

This entry was posted in Fall,Furnace,HVAC Maintenance,Tips,Uncategorized and tagged , , , , ,

Cranberry Turkey Meatballs-Fall Festivities

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Embrace the comforts of season with this healthy and delicious recipe for cranberry turkey meatballs. Easy enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner, and fancy enough to bring to Thanksgiving as an appetizer or side dish. You can even make extra meatballs and freeze them for a future meal!

Cranberry Turkey Meatballs

For the meatballs:

  • 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup shredded tart apple, such as Granny Smith, washed with peel on
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish

For the cranberry sauce:

  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice

Directions:

1. Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place an ovenproof baking rack on top of a large, rimmed baking sheet, then lightly coat with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, breadcrumbs, olive oil, egg, apple, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. With your hands or two forks, lightly mix to combine, being careful not to compact the meat.
3. Roll the mixture into 1 1/2 to 2-inch balls, usiACGIVESTHANKSMAIN-2ng a small scoop to help portion as desired. Arrange the meatballs on top of the prepared baking rack. Bake in the oven for 12-14 minutes, just until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce: In a saucepan large enough to hold the meatballs, combine the cranberries, applesauce, maple syrup, orange zest, and orange juice. Heat over medium to warm through. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, then spoon the sauce over gently to coat.
5. Transfer to a serving platter to enjoy immediately or place in a slow cooker set to the lowest heat to keep warm.

Garnish with fresh parsley as desired and serve!

Recipe source

This entry was posted in Recipes,Uncategorized and tagged

Pumpkin Lovers-Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

There are two kinds of people in this world: people who obsess over all things pumpkin this time of year, and those who don’t. If you’re a pumpkin fan, this recipe is for you! Make a batch, stash them in your refrigerator or freezer, and pull one out whenever you’re in the mood for a healthy and satisfying sweet treat.

Here’s the recipe:

Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites  

Ingredients:
1 cup pitted dates
warm water
1/2 cup raw pecan halves (or pecan pieces)
1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes, reserve small amount for garnish
2 tsp. pure maple syrup
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 pinch sea salt

Directions:
1. Place dates in a medium bowl; cover with water. Let soak for 10 minutes. Drain. Set aside.
2. Place pecans in food processor; pulse until finely ground.
3. Add dates, pumpkin, coconut, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice and salt; pulse until well mixed. Place in a medium bowl.
Refrigerate, covered, for 30 minutes.
4. Using clean hands, roll into Tbsp. size balls; roll in reserved coconut, if desired.
5. Store, refrigerated, in an airtight container.

1 serving = 2 energy bites

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This entry was posted in Recipes,Uncategorized and tagged

Furnace Replacement from WestAIR and Rheem

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Furnace replacement

Steadily rising heating costs. Strange noises and weak air flow. Frequent repairs. These are all signs that your older furnace may be nearing the end of its life cycle. When the time comes for furnace replacement, look to the experts at WestAIR and Rheem.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

There are several factors to take into account when considering a furnace replacement:

    • Age – Find out the year your unit was manufactured, either by looking in the owners’ manual or contacting the manufacturer with the model number.
    • Average Lifespan – Although today’s models can last more than 20 years, it’s not a bad idea to have a technician inspect the furnace for possible replacement at 15 years. Our Annual Service Maintenance Program will not only check the condition of your furnace, we’ll be able to make any necessary repairs before they become big issues, extending the life of your unit.
    • Energy efficiency – New models are more highly energy efficient. Even if your older unit seems to be running well, it may not be running efficiently, resulting in higher energy usage and heating costs. While a higher efficiency unit will mean a higher initial investment, a more efficient heating system will save money in the long run.

Rheem manufactures top quality, innovative furnaces and heating products offering the latest technology and long-lasting performance, with up to a 98.7% energy efficiency rating.

Founded in 1925 by brothers Richard and David Rheem, Rheem Manufacturing Company offers nearly 100 years of heating and cooling manufacturing excellence. WestAIR is proud to be a Rheem Pro Partner, with highly trained, licensed, professional technicians.

Contact WestAir today to discuss your current heating system and your furnace replacement options. Together with Rheem, we’ll ensure the comfort of your family this year and for years to come.

This entry was posted in Energy Savings,Heating,Uncategorized and tagged , , , ,

Happy Independence Day

Posted on by admin

Independence Day

 

Happy Independence Day from WestAIR Heating and Cooling! Our office is closed today in observation of the holiday. Have a great 4th!

This entry was posted in Community Events,Holidays,Uncategorized and tagged , , , ,

Banana Chocolate Muffins-Summer Snacks

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Looking for a healthy muffin recipe both kids and adults will enjoy? These banana chocolate muffins fit the bill. They have the most wonderful, slightly dense yet crumbly texture and just the right amount of banana chocolatate-y goodness. Give ’em a try!

Banana Chocolate Muffins

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup oat flour (make your own by pulsing old-fashioned oats in a food processor until powder consistency)
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/4 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3-4 mashed, very ripe bananas
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)

Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 400 and line a 12-count muffin tin with liners.
Add the oat flour, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to a medium bowl and whisk to combine.
In a large bowl, whisk bananas, butter, honey, eggs and vanilla until smooth. Pour in the dry ingredients and stir until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for topping the muffins, if desired.
Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups and top with reserved chocolate chips. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until toothpick in the middle comes out clean. Cool slightly before eating.

This entry was posted in Recipes,Uncategorized and tagged

In Honor of Memorial Day

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Memorial-Day-2017

This Memorial Day we take a moment to remember our Heroes and all that have served. We are forever grateful.

This entry was posted in Holidays,Uncategorized and tagged , , , ,

Twin Cities Indoor Play Areas for Kids

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Winter is here, and so is that cooped-up feeling of being indoors all the time. Here’s a list of fabulous (and FREE!) indoor play areas around the Twin Cities to help children burn off some energy:

Burnsville Mall Play Area | Located on the lower level, near JCPenney
1178 Burnsville Center
Burnsville, MN 55306

Eden Prairie Center Play Area | Monday–Saturday 10am-9pm; Sunday 11am–6pm  The children’s play area is located on the lower level of the Kohl’s wing.  Children fewer than 42 inches tall are welcome to enjoy the play area. Socks are required for play.
8251 Flying Cloud Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344

Legoland Mall of America | Monday-Saturday 10am-9:30pm; Sunday 11am-7pm  A great spot to stop and sit at the Mall of America.  Your kids will love the huge Lego displays and the play area has benches for parents, and both Duplo and regular Lego tables for the kids.

Roseville Mall Play Area | Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm; Sunday 11am-6pm
10 Rosedale Center
Roseville, mn 55113

Southdale Mall Play Area |Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 11am-6pm  Located on the first level.  Closest parking is between Herbergers and JCPenney.
10 Southdale Center
Edina, MN 55435

Sovereign Grounds Coffee Shop and Playroom (Minneapolis): It’s a place to relax, meet other parents, talk, have a great cup of coffee or tea and maybe pick up some fresh beans to take home. There are comfortable spots for adults and a large playroom for the kids. Sovereign Grounds is proud to be the first kid-friendly coffeehouse in town, implementing the unique concept of combining an indoor playground with a traditional, community-oriented neighborhood café. Kids of all ages are not just tolerated here. They are welcome!

Source: Twin Cities Mom’s Blog

This entry was posted in Family Fun,Uncategorized and tagged ,

January Events for the Whole Family

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

FREE FAMILY FUN DAYS
Explore a different topic each week with hands-on activities for kids and adults at the Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington.

ARCTIC FEST
Bundle up the family for outdoor winter fun at Arctic Fest 2017, January 13-15. Most events are free and accompanied by an outdoor bonfire.

DIVE-IN MOVIE
Enjoy a tropical staycation at the Shoreview Community Center’s Dive-In Movie Night.

SNOWMAN MAKING CONTEST and CONCERT
Participate in the Snowman Making Contest at Silverwood Park on January 16 in St. Anthony. Bring shovels, props and accessories. Stay for a free outdoor concert afterwards.

U.S. POND HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS
The 2017 hockey tournament returns to Lake Nokomis January 26-29.

This entry was posted in Uncategorized and tagged ,

Dry Winter Months

Posted on by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

During the Upper Midwest winter months the air inside of our homes tends to get etremely dry. There are simple signs such as dry skin, dry nose, and dandruff. A humidifier is the best solution to combat dry winter air in your home.

Portable humidifiers are like a piece of furniture taking up extra space in various rooms. They also involve the inconvience of always having to be refilled with more and more water. Even with this type of humidifier, you may still experience dry skin and dry air at times. Coming home to a dry house is just as unpleasant as coming home to a cold house after a long day at work or a weekend away.

A whole house humidifer is the number one solution to all of the discomforts and hassles of dry winter air. No more refilling the humidifier with water and no extra furnitiure in rooms throughout the house. Our whole house humidifiers involve a simple installation and will deliver healthier air to you and your family. If you would like to read more information about Aprilaire humidifiers please visit our website via the following link: WestAIR Whole House Humifidiers. Give us a call today for a free estimate on a whole house humidifier designed just for your home.

This entry was posted in Indoor Air Quality,Uncategorized and tagged , , , , , ,

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