Josh Altman

Duct, Duct, Goose – Don’t Act Silly When It Comes To Duct Cleaning!

08.02.22

Life is chock full of commitments and brimming with responsibilities. With so many things competing for your precious time, it’s easy to overlook the details of routine maintenance. This isn’t always a problem, as not all maintenance needs are equal, but when it comes to duct cleaning, there’s no place for procrastination and no give for goofing around. Make sure you’re not the odd one out when it comes to duct, duct, goose. Prioritize your air quality with the help of Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning today!

Of Symptoms & Sources

As humans, we can often be incredibly visual. Sometimes this translates into only approaching the problems right in front of us rather than remembering the devils hiding in the details. We’ll attack spots of mold, forgetting to counter the invisible conditions that caused it – we’ll often tackle the symptoms instead of the source. This can lead to big problems, as some of the most important functions that keep your house running smoothly are running behind the scenes. There are few better examples of these hidden household essentials than your duct system.

Unseen Shouldn’t Mean Unclean

When you spill juice all over the kitchen floor, do you leave it there to attract flies? When you drop crumbs on the counter, do you wait until the cockroaches come to clean up? Of course not! People usually take incredible pride in the interior parts of their homes – especially the things most visible to company. But what about the interior parts of your home that are less visible?

Your air ducts are not only interior parts of your home – they’re pivotal parts! Their cleanliness is just as important as a clean kitchen counter or a stain-free carpet – arguably even more so, as they’re responsible for the air quality of your home and the healthy respiratory systems of you and your loved ones. It’s important to maintain the essential functions of your home, whether you can see them or not. When it comes to your air ducts, unseen should never mean unclean.

When It Comes To Duct Cleaning, Breathing Is Believing

Everyone’s heard the timeless saying, “seeing is believing.” When it comes to the cleanliness of your air ducts and the air quality of your home, we think the saying could use an update. “Breathing is believing” better captures the reality here. You may not be able to see the destructive dirt built up in your duct system, but you’ll be able to feel it with every sniffle, sneeze and runny nose. If you’re looking for air ducts so spotless that you can feel the squeaky clean, leave the task to the pros at Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning. With countless cleans under our belts, we’ll leave your ducts sparkling, your sinuses smiling, and your lungs laughing. Go with Kinkaid HVAC today!

How To Sidestep Summer Humidity

06.30.22

Have you ever felt so sweaty and disgusting that you absolutely needed to take a shower? Finally clean and refreshed, you shut off the water, open the curtain, and step out. Instantly, the oppressive humidity attacks you again! It’s almost as if you’d never showered at all.

High humidity is one of the most uncomfortable, relentless weather conditions out there, and can easily turn a typical day into a sweaty slog. With a palpable heaviness hanging in the air, it seems impossible to escape. But there’s actually an easy way to sidestep summer humidity and enjoy cool, tolerable air conditions. Find out how with the pros at Kinkaid HVAC!

Sidestep Summer Humidity: More Than Just Discomfort

When most people hear the word “humidity,” they associate it with intense discomfort, sweat and fatigue, but high humidity can actually pose an even greater threat than these. If your home is plagued by high moisture levels, it may just be a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold. Unchecked, these unwelcome guests can grow in the damp atmosphere and lead to poor air quality and, eventually respiratory issues. High humidity in the home means more than just discomfort.

Looking For A Solution? No Sweat!

If you’re looking for a respite from a humid home and hoping to avoid the hazardous effects of moisture-dense air, a quality HVAC unit is a great way to get there. Known primarily for their heating and cooling capabilities, HVAC units actually play a key role in dehumidification as well. Evaporator coils within the unit condense the air in your home, remove the moisture, and send the excess out through a drain pipe. Basically, dehumidifying is a natural part of the cooling process.

Still Breaking A Sweat? No Need To Fret!

If you already have an HVAC unit but still find yourself suffering from high humidity in your home, there are several potential culprits. Bad ductwork, dirty evaporator coils, and an oversized or outdated HVAC unit can all lead to poor humidity control. Though solutions vary depending on the problem, the best remedy for HVAC problems is to call a trustworthy, knowledgeable HVAC professional. Luckily, Kinkaid HVAC has all the experience you need to solve your humidity crisis and help you sidestep summer humidity. Call on us today; we’ll fix your problem without even breaking a sweat!

HVAC And Asthma And Allergies, Oh My!

05.26.22

Though the usual draws of an HVAC system are its heating and cooling capabilities, its functions go far beyond simple temperature solutions. If you wrestle with allergies and asthma, you may be surprised to learn that your HVAC system can work miracles for softening your symptoms. You should also know that, if poorly maintained, the same system can worsen your seasonal suffering. Find out how your HVAC system can affect asthma and allergies with the pros from Kinkaid HVAC!

Focus On The Filter

Want to optimize your HVAC system to give you relief from your asthma and allergies? One of the best ways to do it is by focusing on your filter. Frequent maintenance will keep your filter clean and let your system work at its best, but even routine maintenance may not completely stop your sniffles. When it comes to filters, you really do get what you pay for. We highly suggest switching out your standard filter for a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters range in quality, rated on a “MERV” scale. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at catching fine particles. MERV ratings go from 1 to 16, but a 10 or higher should be more than enough to keep allergens out and quality air in.

The Price Of Procrastination

Because a clean, functional filter is pivotal for air purification, neglecting your filter is one of the worst things you can do for the air quality in your home; it’s a great way to ensure sneezing, sniffling and the worsening of your asthma and allergies. As is the case with most things in life, a little maintenance goes a long way. With routine attention, cleaning and quality filter choice, your HVAC system will perform beautifully for the long haul. On the other hand, if you put off filter care, your HVAC system will be forced to work much harder than it has to, limiting its effectiveness and lifespan.

Your HVAC System Can Affect Asthma And Allergies – Let The Pros Clear The Air!

Asthma and allergies can make life a nightmare. Grogginess, fatigue and headaches turn every day into a gauntlet to get through instead of an enjoyable ride to experience. Maintaining your HVAC system will save you from needless suffering! Cleaning your HVAC filter is simple enough, but if you want a thorough, deep duct cleaning, the job is best left to the pros. Call on Kinkaid HVAC for the expertise you need to get the air quality you deserve. C’mon, let’s clear the air!

3 Tips To Cool Down Your House Without Breaking The Bank

04.23.22

Spring is in full swing and summer is hot on its heels! If you’re the type who likes to cool off when things heat up, the time to figure out your summer cooling solution is now; not in the hellish humidity of summer’s first heat wave. The typical remedy for towering temperatures is an air conditioning unit, the most popular being either central A/C or a series of simple window A/C units. But running an A/C unit all summer long can take a massive toll on the utility bill, leaving homeowners wondering if the cool escape was worth the price. Fortunately, Kinkaid HVAC has some simple tips to take some of the pressure off your A/C unit. Without further ado, here are 3 tips to cool down your house without breaking the bank!

Does It Have To Be A Tundra?

It may seem obvious, but one of the best ways to lighten your utility bill during the summer is to set your thermostat at a reasonable level. Cranking your A/C unit to the max may feel incredible in the heat of the moment, but it’s not the only way to keep your cool, and all that excess comes at a high price. Instead, try adjusting the thermostat to a moderate coolness, something that takes the edge off the heat without turning your home into a tundra. Remember – even the smallest sacrifices on your thermostat can lead to big savings in the long run!

Mind Your Blinds!

Be careful not to underestimate the amount of heat that comes in by way of windows; it’s a surprising amount! One of the best ways to keep your home cool without blasting the A/C is to close your window blinds. If you’re interested in going a step further, why not invest in some blackout curtains for the ultimate barrier to summer’s withering rays? Blinds and blackout curtains are perfect shields from the hot summer sun, guaranteeing a noticeable drop in your indoor temperature.

Sun Down, Windows Up

Sometimes A/C is the best solution to the blistering heat of a midsummer day. But that doesn’t mean your unit needs to keep running all night long! Typically, the temperature drops significantly at sundown, reducing the need for high A/C with every degree dropped. Investing in screens for your windows and doors will allow you to keep them open during the comparatively cooler temperatures of a summer night, cutting a sizable chunk out of your utility bill.

Hopefully, these tips will help keep you cool when things start heating up this summer. And don’t forget – for all of your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning needs, go with Kinkaid HVAC!

5 Springtime Steps To Safeguard Your Summer A/C

03.24.22

Springtime is beginning to bud, and the increase in temperature is nothing if not a welcome change. But if you’re someone who prefers staying cool during the summer, be careful not to let spring’s mild weather lull you into a false sense of security; summer is hot on its heels! Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to secure your cool summer comfort – before summer even begins! Read on for the 5 springtime steps to safeguard your summer A/C!

Check Up On Your Outdoor Unit

Fall and Winter can be seasons of intensity, and often leave yards littered with leaves, twigs and all manner of other debris. This scattered scene isn’t easy on the eyes, but it’s a lot harder on your outdoor A/C unit. Spring is a great time to check up on your outdoor unit, clearing away any debris that might interfere with its proper functioning. If your unit looks disheveled or unlevel, it’s best to call an HVAC maintenance pro to ensure that it hasn’t sustained any serious damage.

Conduct A Duct Cleaning

With no shortage of allergens floating through the springtime air, your sinuses don’t need any extra assailants! Don’t let dirty ducts add to the assault on your sensitive senses. Scheduling a professional duct cleaning before heavy summer A/C use ensures that accumulated dirt, mold and other health hazards will never make it out of the vents and into your home!

Fetch A Filter

HVAC filter replacement isn’t a suggestion; it’s a necessity! If you don’t routinely change your filter, your system may be suffering needlessly. A buildup of mold and dirt in your HVAC filter can significantly hamper A/C function, and put a damper on your Summer serenity. If you want air conditioning that’s all revved up and ready to go when the summer sun starts scorchin’, replacing your filter is a must!

Test Your A/C

The swelter and sweat of the first summer heat wave is a bad time to realize that your A/C doesn’t work; better to be proactive! Once cleaning and filter replacement are behind you, it’s time to take your cooling system for a test run. Adjust your thermostat to a reasonable summer setting and stay tuned. If everything cools down in a snap, you’re in the clear; if not, it’s time to call the pros in for some troubleshooting.

Routine HVAC Visits

One of the best ways to ensure that you’ll be spending the summer in cool, breezy comfort is to schedule routine visits from your local HVAC specialists. Regular inspections and maintenance guarantee that you’ll be all set to take a seat and beat the summer heat, and Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning has the A/C services you need to get the job done right. Don’t be undone by the summer sun – keep your cool and call today!

Signs You Need Professional Air Duct Cleaning

02.15.22

The air ducts in our homes are responsible for carrying heated or cooled air from our HVAC systems into our living areas. Over time, air pollutants and other contaminants can build up, leading to decreased air quality, unpleasant odors, and in severe cases, to blockages that impede proper airflow.

In this post, our experts discuss the benefits of air duct cleaning Ambler, PA, homeowners should know about.

Need HVAC services ASAP? Kinkaid proudly serves Ambler, Willow Grove, Roslyn and the surrounding areas. Contact us online or call (215) 646-5577 to get started today.

Common Air Duct Contaminants

While your HVAC unit ideally filters air before it moves into your air ducts, small enough particles can make it through. Clogged filters may become so saturated with contaminants, this too can lead to particles coming loose and traveling throughout your air duct system, eventually making their way back into your home.

Dust, dander, pet hair, pollen and cooking gas particles can all build up in air ducts over time. If moisture makes its way in, mold and mildew growth can soon follow.

Another potential threat to your air ducts is external. Insect and rodent infestations can leave behind nesting materials, droppings and carcasses.

All of these contaminants can greatly decrease air quality and HVAC efficiency over time.

Signs You Need Professional Air Duct Cleaning

Ideally, homeowners should schedule a professional air duct cleaning once a year. If you notice any of the following signs, however, it’s best to contact an Ambler HVAC company right away:

Strange noises coming from air ducts
Unpleasant odors when your unit runs
An uptick in occupant allergy symptoms when the unit runs
Evidence of mold or mildew in or around air vents
Impeded air flow despite regular HVAC maintenance

The Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning

Scheduling professional air duct cleaning at least once a year will help eliminate unpleasant, musty odors, keep your HVAC system clean and efficient and discourage nesting and infestations. This service can also benefit those who are sensitive to allergies or those who struggle with asthma or other respiratory challenges.

The team at Kinkaid specializes in professional air duct cleaning services, along with HVAC repairs and replacements! Contact us online to get started today, or give us a call at (215) 646-5577.

Heater Stopped Working? 3 Common Problems

01.13.22

Winter has officially arrived. This season marks a time when many of us rely on our HVAC units to stay comfortable. If you’ve been in a situation where your heater stopped working, you already know it’s a major inconvenience. In this post, the experts at Kinkaid provide troubleshooting tips on 3 common heating problems and how to fix them.

Looking for expert heating repair, Ambler, PA homeowner? Give the team at Kinkaid a ring at (215) 646-5577 or visit us online to book services.

Common Heating Issues

Homeowners are bound to run into heating troubles, even with regular visits from an HVAC professional. Let’s look at 3 common heating problems and how to troubleshoot them.

Clogged Air Filters

If you’re experiencing weak air flow and/or reduced indoor air quality, it’s a good idea to check your HVAC air filters. An air filter should allow light to shine through when held up to a light source. If it doesn’t, the odds are your unit is having trouble filtering and moving air throughout the system.

Replace air filters every 30-90 days, depending on your household. You can find information like sizing printed on the frame of your old filter, and most home improvement stores carry standard HVAC air filters.

Blocked Outdoor Condenser Unit

If your HVAC system includes an outdoor condenser unit and you notice a loss in heating efficiency, you might want to head outside. The outdoor unit needs at least a 2-ft clearance around it to allow for proper airflow. Trim back any nearby trees, bushes and shrubbery to give your unit the required space.

It’s also important to carefully remove any leaves, twigs, branches, seeds or nuts that get trapped between the unit’s metal fins.

Check Your Thermostat

This one is simple, but it’s often the culprit behind heating headaches. Check to ensure your thermostat is set to ON and that it reflects your desired indoor temperature. This device is responsible for kicking on your unit in the first place, so it’s a good idea to check or replace the batteries if your unit doesn’t seem to turn on when it should.

Homeowners will also want to pay attention to the placement of a thermostat, keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from sources of unusually hot or cold air.

Best HVAC Company Ambler PA

If your heater stopped working and you’re unable to solve the issue at home, have a qualified HVAC technician take a look. Our team is on call and ready to help get your home back on track this winter. Give us a call at (215) 646-5577 or contact us online to book heating services today.

5 Signs You Need to Replace HVAC Unit

12.14.21

Winter is at the doorstep. As temperatures drop, many of us rely on our HVAC units to keep our homes warm and cozy. A heater on the fritz can take the “merry” right out of the cold months. In this post, our experts discuss 5 signs it’s time to replace HVAC unit Willow Grove homeowners should be on the lookout for. Let’s dive in.

Replace HVAC Unit: 5 Warning Signs

Depending on the age of your unit, many heating problems can be solved with regular HVAC maintenance or professional HVAC repair. That said, it’s good to know the warning signs of a unit that’s on its way out. That way homeowners can plan for proactive HVAC replacement.

Keep an eye out for the following:

The Age of Your Unit

On average, HVAC units last 12–17 years. Diligent maintenance can even keep a unit going strong for up to 20 years. If your HVAC system is 15 years or older, consider weighing the cost of frequent repairs against installing a new, energy efficient unit.

Decreased Heating Efficiency

If you’re keeping up with regular HVAC maintenance but your old unit still struggles to heat or cool your home like it used to, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. A qualified HVAC technician can evaluate your system and recommend the most cost-effective course of action.

New or Unpleasant Odors

An aging unit may have greater difficulty filtering out air pollutants, or it may become more prone to harboring mold and mildew growth. If musty odors persist despite your best cleaning efforts, have a professional take a look.

Refrigerant Leaks

When an old unit has a severe refrigerant leak, it can warrant extensive repairs. It’s always wise to weigh the cost of repairing an aging unit against installing a new one.

New or Odd Noises

Some amount of operational noise is normal, but if you notice new, invasive or strange noises when your old unit runs, it could indicate that essential components like the blower or motor are struggling to keep up. An HVAC pro can let you know replacing a part will fix your troubles, or whether it’s time for an upgrade.

HVAC Installation in Willow Grove, PA

The team at Kinkaid is proud to offer professional HVAC installation, HVAC repair and HVAC maintenance services. Our technicians will evaluate your home and make the best recommendations for your needs and budget.
Give us a call at (215) 657-1262 or visit us online to get started today.

5 Ways to Cut Down Your Heating Bill

11.16.21

As the days get shorter and the weather turns cold, one thing is clear: winter is coming. Savvy homeowners are looking for ways to help lower their heating costs this season and we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn 5 ways you can lower your heating bill this cold season.

Looking for expert heating repair, Roslyn PA neighbor? The team at Kinkaid is ready to help. Call (215) 657-1262 or contact us online to get started.

Lower Heating Costs with These 5 Tips

We all like to stay warm and cozy when temperatures drop, but that doesn’t mean our utility bills need to skyrocket. Homeowners can save big with the following cost-cutting tips:

Turn Down the Thermostat

Lowering the thermostat by just 2–3 degrees will help lower heating costs across the cold season. It’s also wise to lower your desired temp if you are away from home during the day or while you sleep at night. Programmable thermostats make it easy to synchronize temperature changes with your schedule.

Check Windows and Doors

Air leaks in areas like windows and doors can cause heated air to escape outside or into unused spaces. Keep your heating system extra efficient by performing maintenance on window and door frames, such as updating weather strips or tightening loose hardware.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks can also occur in spaces like your air ducts. This allows warm air to escape into unused spaces like the attic before it reaches your living area. An HVAC professional can inspect your ductwork for leaks and seal any problematic areas before you start relying on your heat full time.

Turn Down the Temp on Your Water Heater

Nothing beats a hot shower, but we don’t need scalding hot water. Lowering the max temperature on your water heater will help prevent your family from using excessively hot water.

Use Your Ceiling Fan

It may seem counterintuitive to run ceiling fans when the heat is on, but it’s wise to remember that heat rises. Homeowners can run ceiling fans on a low setting to help circulate warm air throughout your home more effectively.

Get Professional HVAC Service From Kinkaid

Kinkaid has proudly served Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties since 1917. We offer residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repair on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Give us a call or contact us online to get started today!

3 Common Water Heater Problems

10.15.21

We rely on hot water for many essential tasks in the home, especially when it comes to cooking, cleaning and personal hygiene. A lack of hot water can be incredibly disruptive, but understanding your water heater and the causes behind common Ambler water heater repair issues can help you quickly determine the best course of action.

Common Types of Hot Water Heaters

The most common types of water heaters found in home and businesses include:

Heat Pump Water Heater — This is a hybrid system that utilizes a tank, typically drawing heat from the air.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters — Water is heated and stored inside of an insulated storage tank. Conventional tanked water heaters may be gas or electric operated.

Tankless Water Heaters — Tankless systems heat water on demand, which essentially gives homeowners an infinite hot water capacity.

3 Common Water Heater Problems

Despite the differences between water heater systems, there are common issues that crop up. Let’s investigate.

1. A Lack of Hot Water

If you experience a situation where there is no hot water at all, there may several causes, including:

A tripped breaker
A blown fuse
Thermostat issues
Broken or malfunctioning heating elements
Pilot light problems or a faulty thermocouple (if the water heater is gas operated)

Start by checking the thermostat to ensure the system is on and set to the correct temperature. Next, check the electrical panel for a tripped breaker or blown fuse. If you are unable to find the issue, call a local HVAC professional to diagnose the problem.

2. Lukewarm or Insufficient Hot Water

If this issue is chronic, even with regular maintenance, your water heater may simply be too small to keep up with your household’s hot water demands. If water is lukewarm even when waiting in between uses, it’s possible that there is sediment build-up preventing heating elements from properly heating water. A qualified professional can flush and descale the unit.

3. Discolored Water

If you notice brown, red or rust-colored water only when running hot water, it could indicate the presence of corrosion inside of the water tank. This could be due to a sacrificial anode rod — a component that attracts the electrolytes in tap water and helps prevent tank corrosion — that needs to be replaced. Anode rods typically need to be replaced every 5–10 years. If the corrosion has reached the tank lining, it’s likely time for a water heater replacement.

Call on the Team at Kinkaid

Kinkaid has been in business since 1917, and serving our community remains our top priority to this day. Our experts specialize in Ambler water heater repair, replacement and ongoing maintenance. Give us a call at (215) 646-5577 or visit us online to get started today.