Six Tips For Staying Healthy This Season

Posted on January 26, 2017 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

The cooler months of the year are upon us, which means more time indoors. Stay healthy this season with these six easy tips for preventing the spread of germs:

1. Wipe Down Your Phone: Though cold and flu germs are mostly airborne, germs can still spread from your hands and fingers to your face and mouth via mobile phone
2. Turn Down The Heat: Dry air disrupts the protective mucous layer in your nose, making it easier for viruses to invade your body. Try using a humidifier in your home to add some moisture back into the air.
3. Dust Off Your Sneakers: Did you know non-exercisers are three times more likely to catch a cold? Prime your body to fight off germs by moving your body for 30 minutes a day.
4. Use More Than Hand Sanitizer: Good ol’ soap and water is best when it comes to killing germs on your hands.
5. Get Some Rest: Skimping on sleep makes you four times more likely to catch a cold. Schedule bedtime like an important meeting, and make sleep a priority.
6. Break The Habit of Touching Your Face: Rubbing your eyes or scratching your nose makes you 4% more likely to develop frequent upper respiratory infections.

Source: www.womansday.com

This entry was posted in Health Tips and tagged Health tips

Four Benefits of a Humidifier During Cooler Months

Posted on January 12, 2017 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Winter is here, and so is crisp Minnesota air. As the temperatures drop, so does humidity levels which can cause poor indoor air quality in our homes and negative effects on the body’s immune system. If you’re concerned about your health and comfort this season, consider using a humidifier during the cooler months.

1. Dry air dries out your sinuses, nose and throat making it harder for your body to fight off unwanted germs. A humidifier increases humidity levels in your home, helping you breathe easier. Small portable humidifers work well for one room, or consider installing a whole house humidifier which works in conjunction with your HVAC system. Whole house humidifers also benefit allergy and asthma sufferers by keeping the throat, lungs and sinuses well lubricated.
2. Whole home humidifiers also regulate indoor air quality to ensure the proper balance of humidity in your home.
3. If you or someone you know suffers from eczema or other skin conditions, you know first-hand how dry air affects them. Moisturizing the skin helps, in addition to maintaining the proper humidity levels in your home.
4. Have you ever woken up in the morning with a dry, sore throat? Your throat, chest, nose and mouth become progressively drier during the winter months. Maintaining the proper humidity levels in your home can help manage the air, giving you a better night’s sleep.

To learn more about indoor air quality, whole home humidifiers, or to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable WestAIR service techicians, call us today at 763-498-8071

This entry was posted in Indoor Air Quality and tagged Allergies, Aprilaire, Humidfier, Humidifiers, Indoor air, Indoor air quality, Install, Whole house humidifier

January Events for the Whole Family

Posted on January 10, 2017 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 Family fun, Free

Dry Winter Months

Posted on November 10, 2016 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 Humidifiers, Indoor air, Indoor air quality, Install, Specials, Tips & advice, Whole house humidifier

Fall is a Great Time to Clean Your Air Ducts

Posted on September 28, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

The coldest months of the year are on the horizon which means Minnesotans will spend increasingly more time indoors. That also means we’ll be breathing the indoor air from our home’s HVAC duct system. Improving your indoor air quality is simple.

As a HVAC system circulates air throughout your home, it also moves around dust, dirt and allergens. Over time, these substances collect in your duct system, causing your system to work harder to provide the level of comfort you desire. Having your ducts cleaned by our professional WestAIR technician will ensure your ducts are free and clear of pollutants, and that you and your family are breathing in the cleanest indoor air possible.

Fall is a great time to schedule this preventative maintenance before the winter season hits. Not only will you breath easier, but you’ll also save money in the long run by performing this simple step.

Learn more about Duct Cleaning by contacting WestAIR Heating & Cooling today at 763.498.8071 or check WestAirHeating.com for more info and current specials.

This entry was posted in Duct Cleaning and tagged Duct cleaning, Dust, Indoor air, Indoor air quality, Service, Technician, Tips & advice, WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Go Leaf Peeping: 3 Scenic Drives to Take This Fall

Posted on September 23, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Cruise down any ol’ street during the autumn months, and you’ll likely find yourself oogling out the window at the gorgeous reds, yellows, oranges, greens and browns of tree-line boulevards. There’s no lack of colorful scenic drives in Minnesota this time of year, that’s for sure.

Make a day of it; grab your loved ones and pile into the car to take in some particularly spectacular sites around our great state this time of year. You won’t want to miss these:

WINONA
Located alongside the Mississippi River, Winona offers some breathtaking views.  Check out the Garvin Heights lookout while you’re there for sweeping views of the city below, or a warm cup of soup and a sandwich at the Acoustic Cafe.

STILLWATER
Admire the leaves along the St. Croix River, then grab a beer at Maple Island Brewing or peruse the many gift and antique shops in the bustling downtown area.

DULUTH
Great fall colors and great lake views; what’s not to love? Several state parks along the North Shores of Lake Superior offer hiking trails and scenic overlooks. A mid-week trip might be best to avoid the crowds.

Be sure to check the Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder to find the peak time to go leaf peeping.

This entry was posted in Community Events and tagged Minnesota, Outdoor fun, WestAIR Heating & Cooling

September Family Fun Events in the Twin Cities

Posted on September 13, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Kids are back in school and there’s a crisp chill in the air which can only mean one thing; fall is almost here! The change in seasons brings a fresh crop of family-friendly activities. Don’t miss these upcoming Twin Cities events.

Excelsior Apple Day
Saturday, September 17
9:00am – 10:00pm

Visit the lakeside town of Excelsior for the 37th Annual Apple Day. Run in the morning 5K, browse the vendor fair, or keep the kids entertained at the Happy Apple Kids Corner — there’s fun, food and activities for the whole family. Click here for more information.

Minnesota Renaissance Festival
Weekends, August 20-October 2

Spend the entire day exploring Minnesota’s Renaissance Festival! Enjoy live entertainment, browse artisan booths, food, beverages and more.

Lone Oak Days Fall Festival
Sunday, September 25
11:00am – 4:00pm

Experience farm life as it was in the 1940’s during Lone Oak Days. Go for a hay ride, learn how to make a rope, take your chances in a pie eating contest, see how butter is churned, and so much more.

Before long, we Minnesotans will be bundled up in hats, boots and coats so get outdoors and enjoy one of the loveliest times of year in our great state.

This entry was posted in Community Events and tagged Minnesota, Outdoor fun

(Free!) Summer Fun in the Twin Cities

Posted on July 6, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Summer in Minnesota has arrived, and it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy the gorgeous weather. The Twin Cities are buzzing with festivals, concerts and events all over the Metro; it can be hard to see and do it all!

Here’s a list of FREE attractions around the Twin Cities surely not to miss:

Parks, Splash Pads & Beaches

Round Lake Beach & Splash Pad – Eden Prairie
http://twincities.citymomsblog.com/directory/listing/round-lake-park

Teddy Bear Park – Stillwater
http://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B97B74584-92CD-4CB6-857E-AB5EF6123F13%7D

Central Park – Maple Grove
http://www.maplegrovemn.gov/parks-and-recreation/central-park-maple-grove

Lake Harriet – Minneapolis
https://www.minneapolisparks.org/parks__destinations/parks__lakes/lake_harriet_park/

Nature Centers

Westwood Hills Nature Center – St. Louis Park
http://westwoodhillsnaturecenter.org/

Gale Woods Farm – Lake Minnetonka
https://www.threeriversparks.org/parks/gale-woods-farm.aspx

Concerts & Festivals
Centennial Lakes Summer Concert Series – Edina
http://edinamn.gov/edinafiles/files/Microsites/Centennial_Lakes/centennial_calendarbrochure_2016_web.pdf

Dragon Festival – St. Paul
http://www.dragonfestival.org/

Elk River-Riverfront Concert Series

http://elkrivermn.gov/index.aspx?NID=858

Uptown Arts Festival – Minneapolis

Uptown Art Fair: August 5 – 7, 2016

WestAIR Heating & Cooling is hoping you are celebrating some Summer Fun!

This entry was posted in Community Events,Uncategorized and tagged Family fun, Free

Take Care of your Home Before You Travel

Posted on July 1, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

With the kids off from school and long holiday weekends, summer makes the perfect time for a family vacation. AAA reports more than 40 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles away from home this summer. Ensure your home remains safe with these easy tips:

• Switch off / unplug all electrical appliances (except the refrigerator / freezer!)
• Turn your air conditioner off, or even better – set your programmable setback or Wi-Fi thermostat to “away” status to keep a manageable temperature
• Ensure valuable personal items are away from windows (televisions, computers and other electronics)
• Store other valuables in a safe place
• Pause all deliveries such as newspapers and mail
• Use a timer device to automatically turn on lights at a pre-scheduled time of day
• Avoid any mention of travel on social networking sites

Contact WestAIR Heating & Cooling at 763.498.8071 if you have any questions about seasonal settings for your Air Conditioner, Furnace, Thermostat, Humidifier or Air Exchanger!

This entry was posted in AC,Air Conditioning,Holidays,Tips and tagged Energy savings, Setback thermostat, Tips & advice, WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Fourth of July Kids Craft: Fireworks Painting

Posted on June 27, 2016 by WestAIR Heating & Cooling

Here’s a fun and easy craft idea to do with your kids this Fourth of July holiday!

What You’ll Need:
Toilet Paper Roll(s)
Paper Plate(s)Construction Paper
Red, White and Blue Paint (preferably washable!)
Directions:
1) Start by cutting 2″ long fringes on the end of a toilet paper roll. Open up the fringe so it fans out when pressed against a flat surface.

2) Pour a small amount of desired paint color on a paper plate. Use a different paper plate for each paint, or mix them all together — it’s up to you!

3) Press the fringe-side of the toilet paper roll into a paint color, then press it onto a piece of cardstock paper. Repeat as many times as desired using various colors of paint, turning the toilet paper roll in different directions.

4) Let artwork dry, then display proudly in celebration of the Fourth of July!

Source: Happiness is Homemade

WestAIR Heating & Cooling is wishing you a Safe and Happy 4th of July spent with your family and friends!

This entry was posted in Holidays and tagged