Blogs Articles
When the temperature gets low, your energy bill gets high. That’s because you spend more time indoors during the winter. And we don’t blame you—it can get pretty cold here in Texas. But as luck would have it, you can learn several tricks to reduce your energy spending this season. Wouldn’t it be nice to…
It’s easy to save for planned expenditures. A new car. A new house in Dumas, Texas. College education. As long as you put a portion of your money toward these future expenses, you find a sense of security. However, not every expense is planned, and the surprise expenditures are often the ones that hit us…
By now you have heard that the “old” refrigerant used in air conditioners is being “phased-out”. This will only affect you if you have an R-22 system. You can tell if your system is an R-22 system by calling your local heating and air conditioning contractor to see if they have it recorded in…
As the temperatures begin to rise in Dumas, TX, your air conditioner will be running more often. If your system seems to be running continuously then you might have an issue. If you do a visual check and see that there is ice on the outdoor unit or inside on your coil then there…
So, its summer and your air conditioner has been running just fine in this hot Dumas, TX heat. All of a sudden, you notice water damage on your ceiling. Your AC is leaking water all over and it’s causing a fair amount of damage. What happened? When your air conditioner is running it is creating…
An HVAC system accounts for almost half of the energy consumption in your Borger, Texas, home. Consulting with an experienced HVAC contractor can help you cut down your energy cost without compromising on performance. Energy savings is usually achieved through implementing energy-saving techniques, preventive maintenance, and upgrading to a more efficient system. Energy-Saving Techniques An…
There are many benefits to having proper insulation in your Cactus, Texas, home, no matter the weather. Proper home insulation makes your home more comfortable, reduces your energy bills, and reduces your environmental impact. Types of Home Insulation Many homes have insulation batting lining the walls, ceilings, and attic floor. Batts are large, long pieces…
Modern technology has made great strides when it comes to improving the environment, reducing pollution, and cutting energy consumption. There’s no shortage of innovation from companies that are creating cutting-edge devices and products. Check out the latest eco-friendly technologies for your Sunray, Texas, home. Cooling Innovations Ice-powered air conditioners could be the future of home…
With cold weather just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about conserving the heat in your Texline, Texas, home. Don’t know where to start? With a home energy audit completed by Dr. Energy Saver, you’ll take the first steps toward big savings. Benefits of a Home Energy Audit A home energy audit is…
Many factors affect the cost of heating and cooling your home. Especially after a hurricane or other natural disaster, heating costs for your Dumas, Texas, home are likely to increase substantially. One way to save money, keep bills low, and make a positive impact on the environment is to go with geothermal temperature control. What…
Ductless air conditioners are becoming very popular as they use less energy yet provide the same comfort as traditional units. However, one problem that homeowners in Stratford, Texas face is forgetting routine preventive maintenance on these units. It’s the “out of sight, out of mind” cliché́ which can lead to problems that end up costing…
Even the best air conditioners can’t last forever. Sometimes your AC will make noises when something starts to go wrong, alerting you to the problem. That’s why folks in Borger, Texas, should pay close attention when hearing these common sounds. Banging A banging or clanking sound coming from the outside air conditioner unit often indicates…
The humidity levels here in Morse, Texas, are higher than the national average throughout much of the year, but the summertime tends to be the most humid. Humidity plays a major role in overall comfort, and proper levels can help reduce certain health symptoms. Managing the ideal humidity in your home can be a tough…
You’ve heard of geothermal HVAC systems but haven’t looked into the technology. Geothermal is a set of heat exchange loops buried in the ground in your yard, where the temperature is consistent year-round. By exchanging heat with the ground instead of the outdoor air, a geothermal HVAC provides you with energy efficiency and significant savings.…
If you’re like many homeowners here in the Morse, Texas, area, you might immediately start wondering if you remembered to turn off appliances and set the alarm as soon as you head out the door in the morning. But with the features that make up a “smart home,” you can check a lot of these…
When you walk through the front door of your Cactus, Texas, home in the evening, you want to feel comfortable and safe. Poor ventilation can get in the way of home comfort by reducing indoor air quality, or IAQ. How Does Ventilation Work? At its most basic, ventilation sifts stale air out of your home…
R-22 and R-410A are two types of trademarked refrigerants developed by DuPont and Carrier respectively. If you own a heat pump or air conditioner, it’s important to understand the differences between these refrigerants. Ozone-Depleting R-22 Between 1930 and 1996, R-22 was the standard choice for air conditioning systems. After decades of use, evidence emerged that…
As the weather gets cooler outside, the furnace in your Gruver, Texas, home probably runs much more regularly throughout the winter months. When you understand how the furnace works, it’s easier to know when something isn’t operating properly. Role of the Thermostat The thermostat is the part of the heating and air conditioning system that most…
Unless you’re around a campfire, the smell of burning is rarely a good sign. It’s especially dangerous if it’s coming from the furnace within your Dalhart TX home. A burning odor can indicate a variety of problems with your heating system, some of which are cause for concern. Burning Dust If your furnace is turning…
If you’ve ever wondered how your energy bills skyrocket in colder or warmer months, or why your home isn’t getting the steady temperature you want, the answer could lie in your home’s thermostat. Older thermostats only heat and cool, provide no programming features, and don’t offer much in the way of accuracy. However, there is…
When you live in the Texas Panhandle, you don’t have to worry about the excessive humidity faced by the southeastern portion of the state. However, the dry climate still has profound effects on many aspects of your life, including the temperature and comfort of your home. Without attention to detail, the humidity can adversely affect…
As with most mechanical systems, HVAC systems need regular maintenance to operate in good condition. This point is especially true if homeowners use their HVAC systems often. Many homeowners in Dumas, Texas, use their HVAC systems year-round to stay comfortable while avoiding the extreme temperatures. Purchasing an HVAC maintenance plan will extend the lifetime of…
Many people in Dumas, Texas, struggle with respiratory issues, especially during the summer when pollen and dust mites are prevalent. If you or your family members suffer from asthma, you’re probably willing to do anything to prevent asthma attacks. Fortunately, ventilation with air conditioning can help with asthma attacks by improving indoor air quality. Ventilation Controls…
Homeowners in Dumas, Texas, should watch indoor air quality to ensure the health and comfort of their families. In the past, this was difficult to do without the help of a professional. However, new indoor air quality technologies for the home allow homeowners to maintain indoor air quality without outside help. Homeowners should use smart dehumidifiers,…
Household waste is a massive problem in the United States. It’s estimated that every home throws out nearly 1,600 pounds of garbage a year, as well as engages in harmful, energy-wasting practices. However, this doesn’t have to be you. By following a few easy tips, you’ll lessen your Dumas, Texas, home’s waste dramatically and feel great…
When the weather finally warms, most people think about spring cleaning their Dumas, Texas, home; however, that’s not the only necessity this spring. Make sure you cover other aspects of your home this spring as well. Have Your IAQ Tested While everyone is enjoying the warmer weather of spring, others are reaching for their allergy…
There could be several reasons that your furnace or air conditioner isn’t working. Before you call in your Borger, Texas, HVAC tech, try these troubleshooting steps to see if you can resolve the issue. Check the Thermostat Does the thermostat have power? If it’s battery-powered, replace the batteries and see if that fixes the problem.…
Winter is almost over, but it’s not too late to save on your heating bills. These tips offer simple ways to lower your heating expenses while increasing the warmth in your Channing, Texas, home. Insulate Drafty Windows and Doors Does cold air seem to just seep right through your windows and doors? These are the…
Weatherproofing your Dumas, Texas, home will keep it more comfortable and lower your utility bills in summer and winter. It also extends the life of your HVAC system by reducing the work needed to heat or cool your home, preventing wear and inconvenient breakdowns. Here are some of the best ways to weatherproof your home.…
At Winkelman, we hear this question all the time: What makes heat pumps different from a conventional HVAC system? Everyone is looking to get the best bang for their buck when it comes to an HVAC system, and heat pumps may just be the ideal solution for your needs. Here are a few reasons why…
When they’re working on energy efficiency, many homeowners get so focused on air sealing that they forget to address proper ventilation. Ventilation is just as important to your efficiency and air quality as sealing leaks. Keep your Texas home comfortable in all seasons with the following ventilation strategies. Attic Ventilation You hear a lot of…
Using a humidifier during the dry months of the year in Texas helps improve your life and your home. Humidity typically drops during the winter months to levels below the ideal 30 to 40 percent. By installing a central humidifier or portable humidifier, it restores the moisture you need to keep your home beautiful and…
In Dumas, Texas, you need a properly functioning air conditioning system. Naturally, residents want to maximize their air conditioning efficiency and save money in the process. To save money on AC costs, consider how you arrange your furniture, use the thermostat and auxiliary appliances, and schedule maintenance on your system. Reconsider Your Layout Sometimes, the…
Summers in Dumas, TX are often brutal, with heat and humidity so high you have no choice but to blast the A/C. Unfortunately, a large amount of energy expended on indoor cooling goes to waste thanks to drafts in the home. Keeping your house insulated and installing a heat-recovery ventilator lets you combat the heat…
Ductless mini split air conditioning systems are the perfect solution for homes that don't have a ductwork system in place or if there's a new addition that's not connected to existing ductwork. While today's units are designed to be energy efficient, installing ductless mini splits in the wrong areas can result in poor efficiency and…
Most Texas homeowners are concerned about high utility bills, but many don’t know where to start when it comes to making their homes more efficient. If spending days hunting around your home for air leaks doesn’t appeal to you, a home energy audit may be the perfect solution for your home. What to Expect From…
Proper home ventilation can keep your Texas home cooler this summer. It’s the cheapest way to cool your home without air conditioning and some methods can provide significant savings on your energy bill when used in conjunction with your A/C system. Try some of the following techniques this summer. Natural Ventilation If you have windows that open on…
Attic spaces often fall prey to the “out of sight, out of mind” thinking that puts them low on the priority list for home improvements. What you may not realize is that there’s a strong link between your home’s attic and energy efficiency for the entire house. By making a few relatively minor changes to…
Keeping a lid on energy bills is always on the radar screen for homeowners this time of year. Keep reading to learn how energy conservation leads to using energy more efficiently for nice savings and enjoying greater comfort this season and next.
Your HVAC system keeps your Dumas home warm or cool, but it also contributes to another element of residential comfort: indoor air quality, or IAQ. To maintain high indoor air quality, keep your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump in good repair and free from contaminants. Here is some information on how indoor air quality affects…
Your heating system breaks down during the coldest night of the year. What do you do? Before calling for an emergency repair, try troubleshooting heating problems first.
The good news is that your HVAC system came with a great warranty, so you’re probably covered in the event of a problem. The bad news is there are a few ways that you may void an HVAC warranty without even realizing it. Here are five mistakes that you want to avoid: Not Registering the…
Just recently, local energy provider Xcel Energy announced a 6.3-percent rate increase for residential customers. For the averageTexas homeowner who uses an average of 1,000 kilowatt-hours of energy, that could add up to an additional $6.58 per month. That $6.58 doesn’t seem like a lot, but it can quickly add up over the course of…
Once the coldest months are here, maintenance on your home will be a much tougher task to tackle. This is because HVAC technicians are usually booked to the brim during this time of the year and the temperatures outside are unbearable. Beat the cold weather by tending to these fall home maintenance tasks right now.
Now that summer is nearing the changeover to fall, it’s time to begin thinking about changes that you should make in your Panhandle home to start saving energy. The good news is that we’ve done some of the grunt work for you by compiling several helpful energy-saving tips that you can use this fall to help…
A/C trouble often hits when temperatures soar. It’s the extra strain that causes problems to develop. If your air conditioner has stopped working properly, try these simple fixes before you call in a professional to take a look. Condenser Isn’t Running Check the power. Make sure the outdoor condenser/compressor is plugged in. Next, check the breaker…
Our staff at Winkelman is caught between a rock and a hard place, and we need the help of our neighbors in the Dumas, Dalhart and Stratford areas to help us out! We love our new mascot (and hope you do, too), but he doesn’t have a name. Click the link below to submit your…
The warmest season of the year is upon us and you know what that means — time for some summer energy savings tips. The first step in saving money and energy is getting the facts straight. Here are several myths that may be increasing your monthly bills. Myth #1: If you crank it down, cooling will…
If you want to save money on your electric bill and do your part in protecting the environment, you can switch to a geothermal heating and cooling system. This innovative method uses heat transfer to or from the ground to reduce the energy use of your HVAC system. That means you can stay warm in…