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The US Department of Energy says that air conditioning can account for up to 47% of your utility bill. At The Smith Service Company, we take energy efficiency seriously. Here in Kansas City, we understand that air conditioning is crucial for comfort during the hot months and our advice may help you save money on…
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Air conditioning is crucial for comfort in your daily life here in Kansas City. A well maintained AC unit, with yearly inspections and monthly filter changes, can last up to 10 or 15 years. So how do you know if you need repairs for your unit or if you need a replacement? 1. Age How…
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Ductwork is a hidden element that is crucial to your Kansas home comfort. Ductwork is the system by which warm or cool air circulates throughout your home. It is essential to have well maintained and cared for ductwork in your home. Most of it is hidden behind walls or in places that are not as…
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While an air conditioner’s efficiency is measured by its SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, an electric or gas- or oil-fired furnace’s efficiency is measured by its AFUE, or Average Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This standard measurement is given in percentages, letting you know how much of your fuel is actually used to heat your home…
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Out of sight, out of mind. This is especially true for furnace filters. When you have a clean furnace filter in place, your furnace will run optimally, keeping your home an ideal temperature. A dirty filter will inhibit the performance of your furnace. It may even cause your furnace to fail. What kind? There are…
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Gas furnaces create heat by burning natural gas. This gas is usually methane combined with other carbon-based gasses. The Ignitor The process starts with the ignitor. The ignition source for older furnaces is a pilot light, newer furnaces use an electronic starter. With a pilot light, the regulator supplies a very small bit of gas…
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A furnace is crucial to comfort in Kansas winters, yet it is often ignored when it comes to home maintenance. Usually your furnace is in a basement, closet or other low traffic area of your home, making it easy to overlook. To avoid costly, inconvenient, and possibly dangerous emergency repairs, you should always remember your…
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Geothermal heat pumps have been in use since the 1940s and heat and cool homes wonderfully. They use the constant temperature of the earth for their heat medium instead of the outside air temperature. In Kansas, there are many options specific for this climate and terrain. Different models offer many possibilities for more comfort and…
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