It can be rather easy to forget about your HVAC system. As long as it is keeping your family comfortable, you may not pay much attention to it other than touching the thermostat every once in a while. While you may get by paying minimum attention to your HVAC system, you are missing out on the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance and attention. B&L Ott in Reading, PA is here to help remind you of these benefits and help you keep your HVAC system running in tip-top shape. 

Improved Comfort

The main reason you got your HVAC system is for comfort. You want to be comfortable no matter how hot, cold, or humid it is in Berks County. When your system is well taken care of and receives professional maintenance from B&L Ott, it will work efficiently so your home is evenly heated or cooled. On the other hand, if you neglect maintenance, your system will begin to lose efficiency and you may notice problems such as poor airflow or damage.

You should contact B&L Ott at least two times per year for maintenance. Most customers choose to do so once before heating season and once before cooling season. 

Keep Your Family Healthy

Your HVAC system is also in charge of controlling humidity in your Berks County home. If moisture levels are too high or low, it can start to affect your family and your belongings. For instance, low humidity can cause dry skin and leave you more susceptible to colds or the flu. High humidity, on the other hand, will prevent your sweat from evaporating and leave you sticky and clammy. 

Poor humidity levels can also affect certain materials in your homes such as wood, leather, musical instruments, paintings, and more. The humidity in your home should generally be somewhere between 40-50%. It is important to keep an eye on your humidity levels so your family and home can be healthy. 

Fewer Repairs

When you leave your HVAC system go without maintenance, over time wear-and-tear and other outside sources will take its toll on your HVAC system. If left alone long enough, your system may even experience a total system shutdown. When you schedule regular maintenance from B&L Ott, however, you can get small issues repaired before they turn into costly problems. Doing so can save you stress down the road and give you peace of mind that your system will work when you need it most. 

Increase Lifespan 

When your system is working efficiently and only needs minimal repairs, it will have a better chance of reaching its life expectancy. Many HVAC systems that receive regular maintenance from B&L near Reading, PA often last longer than their estimated life expectancy. This means you get more for your money and have time to carefully plan for an eventual replacement. 

Save Money

When your HVAC system is running efficiently and only needs minimal repairs, you will save more money in the long run. The more efficiently your system runs, the lower your utility bills will be. Every bit you save adds up. Then you can spend your hard-earned money on more important matters, or on other devices that can help your HVAC run even more efficiently. Talk to a B&L Ott technician about installing a programmable thermostat or a home zoning system. 

Contact B&L Ott

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a B&L Ott service, you can do so on our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call us at 610-816-6026. With regular attention from you and professional service from B&L Ott in Berks County, your HVAC is sure to run efficiently so you can reap the benefits. You can help keep your family comfortable and healthy all year long.

Renovating your Berks County home can be an exciting experience. You get to change your home, make it look new, and design it however you want. However, there is also a chance that things may not go exactly the way you want them to. You can run into issues with the layout, pricing, the contractor, and more. Yet, there are ways to help avoid these types of problems. Check out these tips from B&L Ott near Reading, Pennsylvania to learn how to help make your renovation successful! 

Plan Ahead

The first step is to plan everything out thoroughly. This includes: 

• A budget for the project
• What you want to renovate and how
• Your future needs for space
• What supplies you will need
• Timing for the renovation
• What contractor you want to use
• What to do with any pets or children
• Temporary storage or living space
• How you will have to change your schedule during renovation
• Details such as furnishings, lighting, HVAC access, etc. 

By having a detailed plan, you can help ensure that everyone is on the same page. This way you can help ensure the renovation is exactly what you want. 

Give The Project Enough Time

As mentioned above, it is important to plan the timing for your renovation. It is important to note that you should give yourself more time than you think you need. This way, if you have any setbacks, it won’t put as much pressure on you to rush through everything else. If possible, try to schedule your renovation when you don’t have many other plans. This way you can make your renovation your priority and get it done on time. For any outdoor projects, you will also want to pay attention and choose the right season for your project as the weather can be unpredictable in Berks County, Pennsylvania. 

Find the Right Contractor

If your renovation is complicated, you may be considering hiring extra help to get the project done. There are multiple companies in Berks County willing to help you, but it can be a bit tricky to choose the right one for the job. 

The best way to find the right contractor is to find other people in the Reading area who have had successful renovations. Whether it be your friends, family, neighbors, or strangers on a website, it is always helpful to hear testimonials from other people who have used the contractor you are considering. If their clients have positive things to say, they are likely a good candidate for the job. If not, you should look elsewhere.  

Communicate

Whether you are hiring a Berks County contractor or just having your family and friends help, it is important to communicate. Communication is the best way to ensure everyone is on the same page so you can have your Reading home look the way you want it to. Be clear about your expectations, repeat the most important points, and check-in with each other regularly. The more you communicate, the less chance there is for a misunderstanding. 

Be Open To Suggestions

In many cases, two heads are better than one. Your contractor or other helpers may have suggestions to improve your plans. Try to be open to these suggestions, especially if they have more renovation experience than you. There is likely a good reason they brought up this new idea. If you are set on your original plan, communicate why and work together to find the best solution. 

Have A Back-Up Plan

You never know when an unexpected issue may pop up. In every complicated project, it is always good to have a backup plan. This way, if you run into a problem, it doesn’t stress you out or put your renovation on pause. Be ready for issues such as price changes, extended timelines, weather issues, and more. 

Consider HVAC Options

If your renovation included a new room or extreme changes, you will want to make sure your space if comfortable. This means thinking about your HVAC options. Do you need to modify the ductwork? Do you want a split system? If you need help with any comfort aspects, contact the professionals at B&L Ott near Reading, PA. We have the knowledge and experience you need to keep your family comfortable. You can contact us through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. Once you get all of the details sorted out, you can enjoy your new renovation and the comfort of your Berks County home.

Some people like it hot and some people like it cool. When it comes to temperature, not everyone is comfortable at the same temperature. There are many factors that go into comfort. With this in mind, different people are comfortable at different temperatures. This can lead to arguments in both the home and the workplace. If you are familiar with this issue and are looking for solutions, B&L Ott near Reading, Pennsylvania is here to help. Check out these great ideas below. 

Home Zoning 

If everyone in your household or workplace doesn’t reside in the same room, a home zoning system could be your best solution. A home zoning system divides your home or building into sections using dampers in the air ducts. This allows each zone to be controlled individually. If one person prefers warmth, they can send heat to their room. On the other hand, if someone wants it cool, they can shut the dampers to their room. Talk to a B&L Ott professional technician to learn more. 

Space Heaters

If just one or two people want more heat, one option you may want to consider is a space heater. They can warm a small area fairly efficiently. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure safety for your family or coworkers. 

Blankets and Sweaters

If you need a cheap solution for warmth, blankets or sweaters are the simplest solutions. They will help you insulate your body heat when the room is too cold for your liking. Most blankets and sweaters are also soft to add to your comfort. 

Fans

Fans are useful if you need to keep cool for a low cost. There are many different options. You can get a simple one or one with varying speeds that rotate. While fans don’t change the temperature of the room you are in, they can keep the air moving so you feel cooler. 

Improve Your HVAC Efficiency

Sometimes arguments over temperature occur simply because it costs extra to run your HVAC system. If this is your situation, try to look for ways you can make your system run more efficiently. Be sure to keep up with changing the filter on your system and contact B&L Ott biannually for preventative maintenance. Programmable thermostats can also be helpful as you can turn the temperature back when you aren’t home to save energy. 

There are many different ways to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. Talk to the professionals at B&L Ott in Berks County for more solutions. You can do so through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. 

Consider Other Home Elements

There are many other elements you may want to take into consideration when determining what temperature to set your thermostat to. For instance, if you have a husky for a pet, you should likely go with the cooler temperature so your pet can be comfortable too. On the other hand, if you have a baby in your home, you may want to keep your Berks County home on the warmer side. Be sure to take details like these into consideration when making your final temperature decision. 

Compromise 

If all else fails, try to compromise. For instance, if one person wants the temperature at 65 degrees and the other wants it at 75, then set the temperature to 70. Then you can use a blanket or fan as needed to keep you a bit warmer or cooler. 

Use Official Recommendations 

If you prefer not to make a compromise, you can go with the official recommendations. The Department of Energy recommends 68 degrees in winter and 78 degrees in the summer. 

No one likes arguing over the temperature. By using these simple solutions you can help keep your family or coworker warm so they can be happy and productive. If you need more help, contact B&L Ott at https://otthvac.com/contact-us/ or 610-816-6026. We will help you find the best solutions for your home.

Is your HVAC system on the way out? If your system is over ten years old or if it has been breaking down a lot lately, it is time to start thinking about a replacement. 

When it comes to buying and installing a new HVAC system, there are many aspects to consider. It is always a good idea to ask questions to ensure that you know what your options are and that you get what you want. If you don’t know what questions to ask, let B&L Ott near Reading, Pennsylvania help you. Check out our question suggestions below! 

What Are My Options?

One of the most common types of HVAC systems is forced-air. It is a simple decision to choose the same type of system you have had in the past, however, you have plenty of other options to choose from. There are heat pumps, split systems, packaged systems, and more. It is worth taking these other options into consideration before you make your final decision. Compare prices, efficiency, and other features so you can be sure you make the right choice. 

What Size Do I Need?

Size is another important aspect you want to get right. If your system is too small, it will have to work overtime to warm or cool your Berks County home. On the other hand, if your system is too large, it will short cycle. This wastes energy and can offset the humidity levels in your home. Contact B&L Ott to do a load calculation for you so you can ensure you get the right size system. 

Do I Need To Address Humidity Levels?

Temperature isn’t the only aspect that will affect your comfort. If the air is too humid, sweat won’t evaporate off of your skin, leaving you feeling clammy and sticky. If the air is too dry, it can dry out your skin and leave it itchy. Check with your B&L Ott professional to see if you need help with the humidity levels in your home. 

Should I Consider Home Zoning?

Is the upper level of your Berks County home always much hotter than the lower level? Do you notice warm and cool spots in your home? If so, you will want to ask B&L Ott about home zoning. Home zoning divides your home into sections using dampers in the air ducts. They allow you to send conditioned air directly where you want it to go so you can be comfortable wherever you are. 

What Filter Should I Get?

The filter in your HVAC system can affect the efficiency of your system and the quality of the air in your Reading area home. You want to make sure you have the right type of filter for your HVAC system as well as the right MERV rating. Talk to a B&L Ott professional to help determine what filter you should get. 

What Will It Cost?

Your HVAC system is one of the largest home investments you will ever make. Some options cost more upfront but save you more over time with efficiency. Others are more affordable upfront, but won’t save you quite as much over time. It is a good idea to set a budget before you start looking. A B&L Ott technician can help you determine what the best options are within your budget.

Are There Any Special Offers or Rebates?

Sometimes you can find special offers or rebates to help you save even more on your HVAC system. It is always worth asking if any HVAC brands or contractors are offering special pricing. 

Are There Any Financing Options?

You will also want to ask about financing options to make paying off your system less stressful. You can find B&L Ott’s financing options here: https://otthvac.com/payment-and-financing/. 

How Do I Properly Maintain My System?

Finally, once your new system is installed, you need to know how to properly maintain your system. Be sure you know how to clean your system and how often it needs to be cleaned. You should also find out if your HVAC contractor offers any service plans. For instance, B&L Ott offers biannual maintenance. Contact us to learn more. You can do so here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. If you have any other questions or concerns, one of our knowledgeable technicians would be happy to assist you. 

In Berks County, Pennsylvania, the weather can get pretty crazy. Between snow, thunderstorms, and wind, you never know when you might lose power. All it takes is one falling tree branch or a car crash to ruin your plans for the night. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. A Generac Generator can keep your Reading area home up and running when you lose electricity. Read on to learn more benefits of having B&L Ott install a new Generac Generator for you. 

Stay Comfortable All Year Round

If the power goes out in your home, it also likely means that you can’t run your HVAC system. If an outage happens in the middle of summer or winter, your home can become uncomfortable rather quickly. This can make it difficult for your family to rest comfortably and get good sleep. Then they feel tired and unproductive the next day. However, with a generator installed by B&L Ott, you can help ensure that your family is comfortable all night long. Then they can get a good night’s sleep and be ready to face the day. 

Be Able To See at Night

You never really realize how dark your home can get until you lose power and the sun goes down. Even if you have candles and flashlights, being in the dark can make your family feel uneasy. Losing power really makes you realize how often you use and need light. Instead of dealing with the frustration of navigating your home in the dark, talk to B&L Ott about installing a Generac Generator. 

Get Work Done

When you have no lights, it is difficult to do your daily chores. You don’t even have access to many of the tools you need to complete your daily activities. You can’t do dishes, take a shower, get work done on your laptop, or cook. If you are savvy, you may be able to find some ways to work around the outage and still get your chores done, but it will likely take longer and be more frustrating.  A generator installed by B&L Ott gives you the power to get things done so you don’t fall behind schedule. 

Adds Value to Your Berks County Home

If you plan on selling your Reading Area home within the next few years, a generator installed by B&L Ott can also help add value and appeal to your home. Not having to worry about power outages can be a big selling point. When your home loses power, a generator will power up within seconds. A generator provides families with convenience and peace of mind. 

Keep Your Electronics Safe and Have Peace of Mind

Sometimes, when the power finally comes back on, your Berks County home will experience a power surge. A generator can help protect your appliances from this. It will help regulate the flow of electricity so that your electronics don’t get fried. 

A generator will also give you peace of mind that your family will be taken care of during a power outage. They can continue to take showers, brush their teeth, be comfortable, and complete their everyday chores and activities.

Contact B&L Ott to Install a Generac Generator Now! 

Overall, a generator is an investment that will give you peace of mind and comfort during outages. If you are ready to talk to a B&L Ott technician about installing an HVAC system in your home, you can contact us through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. B&L Ott offers free in-home assessments to help you figure out which system is best suited for your home and family. 

Dirt, dust, and debris can enter your Berks County home in a variety of ways. Whether you have a family that enjoys playing outside, furry friends that track in dirt or live in the woods, you may find that your home gets messy pretty quickly. 

One factor that can bring in a significant amount of dust is your HVAC system. Therefore, if you are looking for ways to keep your home cleaner, this is one aspect you will want to pay attention too. B&L Ott near Reading, Pennsylvania is here to help with a variety of services and products that can help you keep your home clean. 

Why It Matters

Dust and dirt affect your comfort as well as your health. When your home is clean, the air smells fresher and you can breathe easy. On the other hand, when your home is dirty, you may find yourself sneezing often and are more likely to get sick. Dirt can also make you feel uncomfortable. It makes your skin feel ticklish or even itchy. With all this in mind, it is important to keep your home clean. Below are some ways you can help accomplish this. 

Your Filter

Your filter is one of the main components that trap dirt and prevent it from entering your home. However, you need to change or clean your filter regularly. The standard 1” filter should typically be changed on a monthly basis. High-efficiency filters last a bit longer, but it is still important to check them regularly. Overall, it is a good idea to check your filter often and change it whenever it gets covered with dust. 

Your Ducts

Your air ducts don’t block dirt like your air filter, but they are responsible for transporting the air throughout your home. Over time, dirt that your filter didn’t trap can settle in your air ducts. Then when your fan turns on, it can blow some of this dirt out into your home and make it dustier. 

Other dust particles will stay within your ducts and can block the air from entering your home. This makes your HVAC system run longer to reach your desired temperature. In this case, you may notice your energy bills rise and your HVAC system becoming more inefficient. 

Air Duct Cleaning 

To help prevent issues with dust and HVAC efficiency, it is important to have your air ducts cleaned by a professional HVAC contractor like B&L Ott. You should have them cleaned every 8-10 years, depending on one how much dirt is tracked into your home. 

B&L Ott uses the latest tools in duct cleaning technology. Our main tool is called the Air Scrubber Plus®. It cleans up to 99.9% of the harmful contaminants in your home and had been awarded the Space Foundation’s Certified Space Technology seal of approval. It will help get the dirt out of your ducts so your family can breathe easily and your HVAC system can run efficiently. 

B&L Ott Preventative Maintenance

Finally, it is also important to schedule preventative maintenance with B&L Ott. Not only does it help keep your system clean, but it also gives you a chance to find and repair small issues before they turn into costly repairs. It also gives you peace of mind that your system will work for you when you need it most. It keeps your system running at maximum efficiency and helps keep the dust out of your Berks County home. 

Contact B&L Ott Now! 

If you would like to schedule and service with B&L Ott, you can do so on our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. With a little extra attention, your home will be cleaner so your family can be happier and healthier.

Summer is here and so is the heat. In Berks County, Pennsylvania the weather is ever-changing and unpredictable. It can be warm and breezy one day, then sweltering and humid the next. A heat wave can arrive quickly. If you find yourself in a heat wave this summer, it is important to know how to keep yourself and your family safe. B&L Ott near Reading, PA is here to help with seven tips to stay safe this summer. 

Pay Attention to Weather Forecast

There are many outdoor summer activities that we participate in. There’s swimming, sports, gardening, parties, and more. When it comes to outdoor activities, knowing what the weather is can help you prepare for your activities. Stay safe this summer by watching the weather forecast on a daily basis. If you hear a heat wave is coming, dress in light clothing and use these other tips to help you prepare. 

Stay Hydrated

When it’s hot, it is important to stay hydrated. The heat makes you sweat, which causes you to lose water. With this in mind, you have to replenish this water so your body can function properly. Dehydration can lead to symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, blurry vision, fainting, and more. The more active you are, the more water you will need, so plan accordingly. This is one of the most important aspects to pay attention to during this Berks County summer. 

Choose Your Food Carefully

While drinking plenty of water, you will also want to avoid foods and drinks that dehydrate you. This includes salty foods, alcoholic beverages, and caffeinated beverages. Make smart choices. Fruits are a great snack that helps keep you cool and hydrated. You’ll also feel better and have more energy.  

Use Sunscreen and Limit Sun Exposure

On top of staying hydrated, it is also important to limit your exposure to the sun and using sunscreen. Sunscreen is something that can be rather easy to forget. Therefore, it is a good idea to find ways to help you remember. Put the bottle where you see it often so you remember to apply it. 

If you must go outside, try to avoid direct sunlight. Find a shady place to relax. It is also best to go outside in the morning or evening while the sun is not high. You will thank yourself when you can be comfortable lying in bed and taking a shower. 

Stay Inside 

The best way to limit your exposure to the sun is to simply stay inside. It can be frustrating to stay inside for long periods of time. If you want to get out of your Reading area home, find a public place with air conditioning to spend your time. You can go to the mall, run some errands, or go see a movie. There are plenty of indoor activities in Berks County. 

Keep An Eye On Kids, Pets, and Elderly

Once you ensure that you are well taken care of, you will also want to check on your kids, pets, and any elderly family members or neighbors. They may not be fully able to take care of themselves so it is a good idea to check on them regularly. Keep your pets inside as much as possible. Make sure your kids know how to stay safe in the summer heat as well. 

Contact B&L Ott for Maintenance and Repairs

Finally, you will want to make sure that your air conditioner will work for you when you need it most. The best way to do so is to schedule regular maintenance from B&L Ott. You can do so through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. If your HVAC system breaks down unexpectedly, B&L Ott also offers emergency repair service. We will get your HVAC system back up and running as soon as possible so your Berks County family can be cool, comfortable, and safe. 

When you go to bed, you want to be comfortable. This way you can get good rest and be as productive as possible the following say. When it comes to comfort, most people sleep best in a cool room with good air flow. Unfortunately, the upper levels of your home are generally hotter than the rest of your home. This is because heat rises. The issue can also escalate if there are other issues with your HVAC or air flow. If your second floor is too hot, contact the professionals at B&L Ott in Berks County for help.

HVAC And Ductwork

Before you are able to fix your hot second floor, you need to pinpoint what is causing the issue. Below are some common problems that can cause your second floor to be uncomfortable.

Wrong Size Unit – If your air conditioner is too small, it simply may not be strong enough to cool your entire house. It may be able to cool your first floor just fine, but it can’t keep up. If this is the case, you may find your unit running constantly.

Old Unit – Similar to a small unit, if your system is old, it may not be strong enough to cool your entire home. Most air conditioners will last about 8-10 years.

Dirty Filter – If your filter is clogged, it can block the air passing through your system. Then the cool air never makes it to your second floor.

Obstructed Ducts – Similar to a dirty filter, your air ducts can also collect dust over time. This dust can also block the air passing through your ducts. Then less cool air actually makes it out of the vent and into your Reading area home. If this is the case, contact B&L Ott for air duct cleaning.

Leaking – If there is a hole or a dent in your air ducts, cool air may be leaking out. If this is the case, the cool air is escaping before it gets to where you want it to go. B&L Ott can help you by repairing or modifying your air ducts if this is the case.

Insulate Your Attic

Is your attic properly insulated? If not, hot air from the attic can be leaking into your home and making your second floor hotter. It is important to ensure that your attic is properly insulated. This way the heat will stay in the attic and not make your bedroom uncomfortable. You may also find installing an attic ventilator helpful. If your roof is due for new shingles soon, you should also consider getting a lighter color as darker color absorb heat.

Close Blinds and Curtains

Sunlight that comes into your home makes the air warmer. This is beneficial in the winter as it helps you save on heating costs. However, in the summer, it makes your second floor even hotter. Close your blinds and curtains during the day to help keep the extra heat out.

Reduce Use Of Heat Appliances

Using certain appliances can also add heat to your home. This includes lights, your dryer, dishwasher, oven, hair drying, etc. Taking long hot showers can also add moisture and heat to the air. By minimizing how often you use these appliances, you can save energy and help keep your Reading area home a little bit cooler.

Use Fans

Good air circulation is also important to keep your home cool and comfortable. If the air on your second floor seems stuffy, use some fans to get the air moving. If you have a ceiling fan or rotating fan, turn them on. You may also find it helpful to set your HVAC fan from “auto” to “on” on your thermostat. This way the air will continually circulate throughout your Berks County home and not just while your air conditioner is running.

Home Zoning System

If you tried the other tips on this list, but still need more air control in your home, talk to B&L Ott about installing a home zoning system for you. A home zoning system splits your home into sections using dampers in your air ducts. By closing or opening these dampers you can better control where the cool air goes. You can send the cool air directly to your second floor at night so you can be comfortable and get good rest.

Supplemental HVAC System

B&L Ott can also help you install and extra HVAC system if needed. Whether you want another whole-house system or a mini-split system, our technicians can assist you. Our goal is to help you keep your home comfortable so you can enjoy your summer. If you would like to schedule any of our services, you can contact us through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call us at 610-816-6026.  

An HVAC system is one of the largest home investments you can make. With this in mind, you want to get as much time and energy as you can out of it. You want it to last a long time and you want it to run efficiently. To do so, you need to take proper care of it. There are many different ways for you to accomplish this, and B&L Ott can help. Read on to learn more about getting the most out of your HVAC system.

Choose the Right System

The first step to getting the most out of your system is to choose the right system. There are many different HVAC models on the market. With different brands, prices, sizes, models, and features, it can be difficult to figure out which model will work best for your Reading home. Let B&L Ott help. Our technicians are knowledgeable about the latest HVAC technology and can help you narrow down your options.

Installation

After you choose a system, B&L Ott can also help you install it. Installation is yet another important part of ensuring your system lasts longer and runs efficiently. If your unit isn’t set up properly, it can run into issues that lead to costly repairs. Many repairs can lead to your system breaking down sooner than expected. Therefore, it is important to have your system installed by an experienced technician you can trust.

Keep Up With Maintenance

After choosing a model and having it installed properly, the next step is to ensure your system receives proper care and attention. This means changing the filter regularly and scheduling maintenance from B&L Ott.

Filter Changes and Cleaning

The average 1” filter should be changed on a monthly basis. If you have a different filter, do as your HVAC manual and filter instructions tell you. You can also adjust how often you change your filter based on how dirty and dusty your home is. Overall, if your filter is covered with dust and debris, it is time to change it. Don’t forget to dust your air vents off as well. Changing your filter helps keep your system clean so that you can reduce wear-and-tear and other issues that take a toll on your system.

Preventative Maintenance

Next, it is time to schedule maintenance from a licensed HVAC contractor like B&L Ott. You should do so 1-2 times per year. In general, it is best to schedule maintenance once in spring before cooling season and once in the fall before the heating season. This way you can be sure that your air conditioner or furnace is ready to run all season long.

B&L Ott preventative maintenance will also help prevent costly repair and help minimize damage to your system so it will last longer. During maintenance, B&L Ott will also make sure that your system is running at maximum efficiency so you can keep your utility bills low.

Keep Conditioned Air In

If you want to get the most out of your system, you need to make sure that the warm or cool air that your system created stays where you can enjoy it. Use these two tips to help accomplish this feat.

Insulate The Attic and Basement

If your attic and basement are not insulated, conditioned air will likely leak out of your home through these places. Then your HVAC system has to work harder to replace the air that was lost. This, in turn, will cause your utility bills to rise. This is why it is important to ensure that your attic and basement are insulated.

Seal the Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are yet other points where conditioned air can escape from your home. To prevent leaks, you should ensure that your windows and doors are sealed. If you plan on installing new doors or windows anytime soon, look for energy efficient models. On top of this, you can also use curtains and draft stoppers to help insulate these areas.

Invest In Efficiency Technology

Finally, consider investing in additional technology that can maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency even more.

Programmable Thermostat

One of the most popular systems is a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to create a schedule for your HVAC system to follow. You can save energy during the day while your family is not home and still have comfort while you are home. Some Smart Thermostats can also be controlled remotely via an app on your Smart device. Talk to a B&L Ott technician to learn more.

Home-Zoning

A home-zoning system can also help you maximize the efficiency of your system. This system divides your home into sections using dampers in your air ducts. This allows you to direct the conditioned air that your HVAC created precisely where you want it to go. You can make the rooms you are currently using the perfect temperature while allowing the rest of your home to be set back a few degrees. This saves both energy and money while helping extend the life of your HVAC system.

Contact B&L Ott Today!

If you are ready to get the most out of your system, contact B&L Ott now to learn how you can maximize your efficiency and extend the life of your HVAC system. You can do so through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call us at 610-816-6026.

Recently, B&L Ott’s very own Ryan Ott won an award from the Berks Career and Technology Center in Oley, PA. This award was the 2019 Life Long Friend of BCTC Award. This honor is presented by JOC Chairperson, Oscar Manbeck, and BCTC Executive Director, Dr. James Kraft of the BCTC Joint Operating Committee. On Wednesday, March 27th, Ryan Ott was presented with a plaque to commemorate his achievement.

Contributing To The Berks County Community

At B&L Ott, we believe that it is important to be involved in our community. When you help others, it not only feels good, but you also get to meet new people and create strong bonds. Ryan Ott has donated both time and over $1,000 in HVAC equipment to the 2018 Student Built House Project. He also helps by supervising BCTC’s annual NOCTI performance tests each year. It is a positive relationship that allows students to learn from an experienced professional in the HVAC industry and allows Ott to share his passion and knowledge.

Striving For Excellence

Through this relationship, Ryan Ott also gets to inspire students to strive for excellence in their workmanship, just like B&L Ott technicians. At B&L Ott in Leesport, PA, we work hard to keep your HVAC running and your family comfortable. Whether we are installing a new system, performing maintenance, or making a repair, our goal is quality workmanship. We stay up to date with industry trends and double check our work. Our technicians are also friendly and courteous when visiting your Berks County home.

Continuing Excellence

When B&L Ott finds a student or candidate that has the same drive for excellence, we often hire them. For instance, Ott mentored a former BCTC HVAC student named Timothy A. Moll, who received several “Student of the Quarter” awards. He was brought on with a Co-Op opportunity and eventually earned a full-time position with B&L Ott. He was a diligent technician and represented B&L Ott well. When Moll unfortunately passed, Ryan Ott created a $1000 scholarship fund in his honor. This scholarship helped another student continue there education and excellence in the HVAC industry.

An HVAC Contractor You Can Trust

If you need HVAC help and want an HVAC contractor you can trust, call on the professionals at B&L Ott. We have been in the HVAC industry for nearly three decades and have helped many satisfied customers. We install the best brands and take pride in quality work. If you need an HVAC system installed, want to schedule biannual maintenance, or need a repair, contact us through our website here: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/. You can also call B&L Ott at 610-816-6026. We look forward to talking with you soon!