Furnace Service Archives

What To Do To Prevent a Frozen Heating System This Winter

February 11, 2025

Winter in Evansville, IN can be tough, especially when your heating system decides to freeze up at the worst possible time. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we know how frustrating and inconvenient a frozen heating system can be, especially when you’re just trying to stay warm. Since 1949, we’ve helped homeowners like you keep their homes comfortable by providing reliable HVAC services with integrity and honesty. To help you avoid dealing with a frozen heating system this winter, here are some practical tips to keep your heating running smoothly. How Does a Heating System Freeze Up? When we think of things freezing, furnaces or heat pumps don’t usually come to mind. However, certain parts of your heating system are vulnerable to freezing, especially in extreme cold. If your heat pump operates outside, freezing rain or ice can cover the outdoor unit and block airflow. For furnaces, freezing can happen when pipes connected to the system or condensate drains become clogged or exposed to freezing temperatures. A frozen heating system can cause serious problems, like poor heating efficiency, higher energy bills, and in some cases, a total breakdown. That’s why staying ahead of the cold is so important! Tips to Prevent Your Heating System from Freezing Here are a few simple things you can do to help prevent your heating system from freezing up during the colder months: 1. Keep Your Heat Pump Clear of Snow and Ice If you have a heat pump, it’s important to make sure the outdoor unit stays clear of snow and ice. A blocked unit can’t circulate air properly, which can cause it to freeze. After a heavy snowfall, clear off any buildup around the unit and make sure there’s plenty of open space for airflow. If freezing rain is in the forecast, try covering your heat pump with a tarp before the storm to prevent ice buildup. Just remember to remove it once the storm passes so the system can operate normally. 2. Insulate Pipes and Condensate Lines Pipes and condensate lines that are exposed to freezing temperatures can cause big problems for your heating system. Insulating these lines can help prevent freezing and keep things running smoothly. You can find pipe insulation at most hardware stores, and it’s an easy DIY job. Simply wrap the insulation around any exposed pipes or lines to keep them warm. 3. Maintain Proper Airflow Good airflow is key to preventing your heating system from freezing. Whether you have a furnace or a heat pump, dirty air filters can reduce airflow and cause your system to work harder than it should. Check your air filter every month and replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter helps your system run efficiently and reduces the risk of freezing issues. 4. Keep Your Home Warm Enough We all want to save on heating bills, but setting your thermostat too low can increase the risk of your heating system freezing. Keep your home at a steady temperature, especially when it’s extremely cold outside. If you’re going out of town, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipes and heating components from freezing while you’re away. 5. Schedule Regular Maintenance One of the best ways to prevent a frozen heating system is by keeping up with regular maintenance. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we offer professional heating tune-ups to make sure everything is in top shape before winter hits. Our licensed and insured technicians have extensive experience working with all brands, and as a premier Lennox dealer, we can ensure your system stays reliable all winter long. During a maintenance visit, we’ll check for any potential issues, clean key components, and ensure your system is ready to handle Evansville’s cold winters. What to Do if Your Heating System Freezes Up Even with the best precautions, your heating system may still freeze up during extreme cold. If that happens, here’s what you can do: Trust Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing to Keep Your Home Warm When it comes to keeping your heating system in top shape during the winter, you can count on Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing. As a family-owned and operated business since 1949, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch service with integrity and honesty. Whether you need a heating tune-up, repair, or replacement, our fully licensed and insured team is here for you. If you’re worried about a frozen heating system or just want peace of mind this winter, contact us today. Let’s make sure your home stays warm and comfortable all season long! By following these simple tips, you can help prevent your heating system from freezing up and avoid costly repairs. Stay warm, Evansville! And remember, if you ever need professional HVAC help, Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing is just a call away.

6 Reasons to Replace Your Old Furnace Before Winter Hits

November 12, 2024

Winter is just around the corner, and with it comes the need for a warm, comfortable home. Is your furnace ready for the job? If you’ve been putting off getting a new furnace, now is the perfect time to make the switch. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we understand the importance of a reliable heating system, especially during the cold Evansville winters. Replacing your old furnace before the chilly weather hits can save you a lot of hassle—and money! Here are six reasons why you should consider furnace replacement before winter arrives. 1. Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns No one wants to wake up to a cold house in the middle of winter because the furnace stopped working. Old furnaces are more likely to break down when they’re pushed to their limit during the coldest months. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it’s at a higher risk of failure. By replacing your old furnace now, you can avoid the stress and discomfort of a mid-winter breakdown. If your furnace is already showing signs of wear, like strange noises or uneven heating, it might be time to think about upgrading. Replacing an old furnace will give you peace of mind, knowing your home will stay cozy all winter long. 2. Improve Energy Efficiency Older furnaces tend to be less efficient, meaning they use more energy to heat your home. As a result, you may see higher utility bills during the winter months. Newer models are built to be energy-efficient, saving you money on your heating bills while keeping your home warm and comfortable. Furnace replacement can reduce your energy usage and lower your carbon footprint, which is not only good for your wallet but also the environment. A new furnace will help you heat your home more efficiently, using less energy for the same (or even better) results. 3. Better Indoor Air Quality Did you know that your old furnace could be affecting the air quality in your home? As furnaces age, they can accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris that get circulated through the air. This can make allergies worse and affect your family’s overall health. When you replace your old furnace, you’re not just upgrading your heating system—you’re also improving the air quality in your home. New furnaces come with advanced filtration systems that help remove harmful particles from the air, making it cleaner and healthier to breathe. 4. Increased Comfort An outdated furnace may struggle to heat your home evenly, leaving you with cold spots in certain rooms and uncomfortable temperatures. New furnaces are designed to provide more consistent heating throughout your home. You won’t have to worry about adjusting the thermostat constantly or wearing extra layers just to stay warm. With a furnace replacement, you’ll enjoy even temperatures in every room, allowing you to relax and stay comfortable all winter long. Plus, new furnaces tend to be much quieter, so you won’t have to deal with loud banging or rattling noises from your heating system. 5. Take Advantage of Rebates and Incentives If you’ve been thinking about furnace replacement, now might be the best time to do it. Many manufacturers and energy companies offer rebates and incentives for upgrading to a more energy-efficient system. By replacing your old furnace before winter, you could save even more money through these offers. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we can help you find the best deals and rebates available for your new furnace. We also offer affordable financing options with approved credit. Our team will make sure you’re getting the most value for your investment while ensuring your home is ready for the cold months ahead. 6. Increase Your Home’s Value Replacing an old furnace doesn’t just benefit you in the short term—it can also add value to your home. If you’re planning to sell your property in the future, a new furnace can be a great selling point for potential buyers. They’ll appreciate knowing that the home’s heating system is new and energy-efficient. A well-maintained, modern furnace shows that you’ve taken good care of your home. Buyers are often willing to pay more for homes with updated systems because they won’t have to worry about replacing them for years to come. So, by replacing your furnace now, you’re investing in your home’s future. Expert Furnace Replacement in Evansville, IN At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we’ve been helping homeowners in Evansville, IN, and the surrounding areas stay warm and comfortable since 1949. Our family-owned business is built on a reputation of integrity, honesty, and service. When you work with us, you can trust that we’ll provide you with the best furnace replacement options for your home. Don’t wait until winter hits to replace your old furnace! Call us today to schedule an appointment and discover the Brackett difference. With a new furnace, you’ll enjoy improved comfort, lower energy bills, and peace of mind all winter long.

Prepare Your Furnace By Getting a Fall Tune-Up

September 24, 2024

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to prepare your furnace for the colder months ahead. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we promote the importance of a fall furnace tune-up to keep your home cozy, warm and safe all winter long. Our family-owned company has been serving Evansville, IN, and surrounding areas since 1949. Brackett takes pride in our integrity, honesty, and top-notch service. Why a Fall Furnace Tune-Up is Important Benefits of a Fall Furnace Tune-Up Getting a furnace tune-up in the fall ensures your heating system is ready to tackle the cold months. Here are some key benefits: What is Included in a Furnace Tune-Up? When you schedule a fall furnace tune-up with Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, our professional technicians will: How to Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up Easy Steps to Schedule Your Furnace Maintenance Scheduling a furnace tune-up with Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing is simple: Our friendly staff will help you find a convenient time for your furnace maintenance. Why Choose Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing? Choosing Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing means you are getting the best service in Evansville, IN. Here’s why: Preparing Your Home for the Cold Season Tips for Getting Ready for Winter In addition to scheduling a furnace tune-up, here are some tips to prepare your home for winter: Stay Warm and Comfortable By taking these steps and scheduling your furnace tune-up, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home all winter. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we are here to help you every step of the way. Stay Comfortable Year-Round with Maintenance Getting a fall furnace tune-up is an essential part of heating system maintenance. It keeps your furnace running efficiently, extends its lifespan, and ensures your home stays warm and safe. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we have been providing top-quality service to Evansville, IN, and surrounding areas since 1949. Our family-owned and operated company is dedicated to integrity, honesty, and customer satisfaction. Don’t wait until the cold hits! Schedule your furnace maintenance today by calling us or booking online. Let Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing keep your home cozy this winter.

When Is the Best Time To Schedule Furnace Maintenance

September 26, 2023

You may be wondering if furnace maintenance is important. Many homeowners ignore furnace maintenance until they have no heat. Maintaining your furnace isn’t just knowing that it’s working. It’s also about health and safety. Maybe the real question is: When is the best time to schedule furnace maintenance? In this blog, Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing offers insights about the importance of heating maintenance. We’ll also answer the question, “What does furnace maintenance include?” Heating Maintenance: Why It’s Essential Before we talk about the best time to schedule furnace maintenance, let’s consider its importance. 1. Longevity: Regular heating maintenance can increase the lifespan of your equipment. Taking care of your heating system means you’ll get the most value out of your investment. 2. Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace is more efficient. Greater efficiency equals lower energy bills. Over time, you could save a lot of money in utility costs. 3. Safety: Heating systems can become unsafe when not maintained properly. Combustion systems are especially at risk. Serious issues such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions may occur and can even be fatal. Regular check-ups can help identify potential hazards before they become dangerous situations. 4. Performance: Regular furnace maintenance gives the trained Brackett HVAC technician an opportunity to assess the heat distribution throughout your home. Consistent heat means you won’t experience cold spots or uneven heat in your living spaces. What Does Furnace Maintenance Include? As you consider the importance of having a furnace maintenance plan, it’s also helpful to know the basics of what is usually covered in a furnace maintenance service call: 1. Inspection: A thorough examination of your furnace is carried out to identify any wear and tear or potential problems. This includes checking the combustion chamber for cracks and inspecting the flue for blockages. 2. Cleaning: Dust and dirt can make your furnace inefficient. The technician will clean the burners, blower motor, and other critical components so everything runs smoothly. 3. Lubrication: Moving parts within the furnace will be lubricated as needed. Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear. 4. Filter Replacement: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and can decrease indoor air quality. As part of the maintenance plan, the furnace filter will either be replaced or cleaned. 5. Thermostat Check: Checking the thermostat ensures the furnace and thermostat are communicating. If not, the equipment will not run properly, and the desired temperature inside will not be achieved. 6. Safety Checks: This involves checking for any signs of carbon monoxide leakage and ensuring that all safety switches are working as they should. When to Schedule Furnace Maintenance Since we’ve explored the benefits and basic process during heating maintenance, the next big question is when to schedule it. Here are some insights: 1. End of Summer or Early Fall: The end of summer or the beginning is the best time for furnace maintenance. You’ll want to make sure your furnace is in peak condition to handle the winter months ahead. This approach guarantees your home will stay warm even throughout the coldest Evansville, Indiana days. 2. Before Extended Use: Since Evansville is in a region that experiences all four seasons, Brackett suggests having your furnace checked before extended cold periods set in. A well-maintained furnace will keep you warm without sacrificing efficiency and safety. 3. Post-Winter: It’s important to have your furnace checked before heavy use but considering a maintenance check after the winter season can also be helpful. Any issues that might have come to light during intense winter usage can be addressed. You may avoid bigger and more expensive challenges. 4. Noticeable Issues: Signs of broken equipment, such as strange noises, uneven heating, or a sudden spike in energy bills are good indicators that it’s time to schedule heating maintenance. It’s always better to fix issues before they escalate. 5. Annual Check-ups: Don’t assume your furnace is working fine. Scheduling an annual maintenance visit is a smart move. Regular check-ups can identify potential issues early, ensuring your furnace operates at its best. Conclusion Furnace and heating maintenance is about more than convenience. Safety and efficiency are the primary concerns. By understanding what furnace maintenance includes and when to schedule it, homeowners can enjoy a warm, comfortable, and safe environment. Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing employs a highly trained team of HVAC technicians to help keep your furnace operating at its best all season long. Whether you choose to have your furnace checked before winter, after, or both, the key is having it inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. An annual check-up can help maintain your furnace’s efficiency, extend its lifespan, and reduce the risk of unexpected and costly breakdowns. Remember, a small step in maintenance can lead to a season of warmth and peace of mind. To schedule your furnace maintenance today, contact the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing. If you’re experiencing any other heating, air or plumbing challenge, Brackett can handle those, too! Call today.

5 Common Furnace Issues & How to Fix Them

February 14, 2023

5 Common Furnace Issues & How to Fix Them Evansville, Indiana homeowners need reliable heat well into March and even April. To avoid being without heat, it’s important to understand common furnace issues and to know when you can DIY or when the furnace repair is best done by a professional. Brackett Heating & Air helps our family of clients with HVAC challenges by providing the information you need to keep the heat on all season long. For heating issues that are beyond being handled safely or efficiently on your own, call Brackett for a comprehensive heating system inspection and any needed furnace repairs. Some of the most common furnace issues are: When you need a furnace repair or replacement, call Brackett Heating & Air. We only hire skilled technicians who also receive ongoing training to ensure they are up to date on current HVAC industry standards. Schedule your appointment with Brackett today.

How to Tell If My Heat Exchanger is Cracked

February 7, 2023

How to Tell if My Heat Exchanger Is Cracked Heat exchangers are common and necessary components in heating and cooling systems. Like any mechanical device or appliance that is used frequently, heat changers wear out. If you need a heat exchanger repair, Brackett Heating & Air has you covered. Our reputation in the Evansville, Indiana area proves we can handle any heating repair or replacement needs you may have. A cracked heat exchanger can be a serious problem for homeowners. It may lead to a loss of efficiency and even a complete failure of the entire system. Signs of a Crack: Decreased efficiency: If your heat exchanger is cracked, it may not be able to transfer heat as effectively as it should. This can result in a decrease in the efficiency of your heating or cooling system, which may be seen in higher energy bills or your system taking longer amounts of time to reach a desired temperature. Strange noises: A cracked heat exchanger may produce strange noises, such as banging, popping, clunking or hissing sounds. These noises may be more noticeable when the system is in use. Leaks: A cracked heat exchanger may produce the appearance of leaks, due to water or even refrigerant leaking from the system. It’s possible, too, that steam or hot air is escaping from the heat exchanger itself. Reduced air flow: A cracked heat exchanger may obstruct the flow of air through the system, resulting in reduced airflow or cold spots in areas of your home. Carbon monoxide (CO): If it is cracked, it may allow carbon monoxide to escape into your home. This is a serious safety hazard. CO is a toxic gas causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and nausea. If you have carbon monoxide detectors in your home, pay attention to any alerts they may give off. NOTE: It’s not only gas furnaces that can produce carbon monoxide, oil furnaces may do the same. If you suspect you have a cracked heat exchanger, have it checked and repaired by trained professionals like those employed by Brackett Heating & Air. Call Brackett Heating & Air today for your comprehensive inspection.

What Does Furnace Maintenance Consist Of?

January 10, 2023

What’s Involved with Furnace Maintenance? If you want to shorten the life of your furnace, do this: never have proper furnace maintenance completed on it. Regular furnace maintenance is the single most important action to take to keep your furnace and entire heating system running as it should. Brackett Heating & Air offers our family of clients a comprehensive maintenance program, which as with most well-rounded furnace maintenance, includes the following and more: What Are the Consequences of Neglecting Furnace Maintenance? Besides the possibility of a premature furnace failure, there are several ramifications when furnace maintenance is ignored or performed haphazardly. What Should You Do to Make Sure Your Furnace Is Protected? To keep your furnace operating at peak performance so you and your family stay warm during the coldest months of winter, you need only make one phone call to Brackett Heating & Air. Our trained staff are ready to take your call and schedule one of our HVAC service technicians for your furnace maintenance or any heating system needs. Discover the Brackett Heating & Air difference. Call our office today to learn more.

Get Ahead of the New Year with a New Furnace

December 27, 2022

Get Ahead of the New Year with a New Furnace If your furnace is costing more than usual in service calls and fuel, and is at least 12 to 15 years old, you should probably consider a new furnace replacement. Before you throw up your hands and say, “No way,” hear this from Brackett Heating & Air: The current tax credits are not only continuing, they’re being expanded through the recently signed Inflation Reduction Act. Now is the perfect time for a furnace replacement. You can save money on energy costs with a high efficiency furnace and you may qualify for tax rebates, too. With approved credit, add in Brackett’s convenient financing options, and a new furnace installation may be more affordable than ever. Murphy’s Law often works out to be true. What can go wrong, will, and usually at the worst possible times. You don’t want to be stuck without heat during the coldest months of the year in the Evansville, Indiana area. Take advantage of these money-saving opportunities now to replace your outdated, inefficient furnace. You’ll be shocked at the money you save on lower utility costs. Why You Should Consider a Furnace Replacement Manufacturers are projecting price increases on HVAC equipment in the future. You can benefit from the current low price of a furnace replacement now, and enjoy the added benefit of lower energy bills. Changing HVAC technology is always improving. For example, newer furnaces operate at much higher levels of efficiency than those of even 10 years ago. Some gas furnaces convert 98% of the energy they consume into heat for your home, allowing for only 2% to be lost. That equates to significant savings for you. If you add a programmable thermostat to your new furnace, your overall monthly savings will likely be even higher. Plus, some can be controlled via an app on your electronic devices giving you quick and easy access to your indoor environment. A furnace replacement may help with any indoor air quality issues you’ve been experiencing. Brackett Heating & Air HVAC technicians are skilled, experienced and are ready to help you start saving money with a high-efficient furnace installation. Call Brackett today to schedule your no-cost consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

Furnace Repair or Furnace Replacement? How to Tell What You Need

October 4, 2022

Furnace Repair or Furnace Replacement? How to Tell What You Need Evansville, Indiana winters tend to be windy, wet and very cold, so being without heat isn’t an option. When your furnace sounds weird, and you’re not feeling the heat like you want, it’s time to call a professional to inspect the situation and get your furnace back on track. Brackett Heating & Air has NATE certified technicians and installers ready to solve your heating issues, quickly and efficiently. What Key Factor Can Be Used to Determine If You Need a Furnace Repair or Replacement? There are many reasons why it may be time for a furnace replacement vs. a furnace repair, but the number one factor is the age of your furnace. Most furnaces typically last 15 years, even if you have faithfully scheduled annual furnace maintenance. Normal wear tear and ever-evolving heating technology will eventually warrant upgrading your heating system. Aside from considering the age of your furnace, there are also other reasons why you may need a furnace replacement over a furnace repair. If your furnace is less than 15 years old, and the cost for a furnace repair is less than half the cost to replace it, then repairing is probably the wise choice. Conversely, if it’s an older furnace and the cost to repair it is high, you’ll be better off with a more efficient furnace replacement. Other Considerations If your heat is broken often, and you frequently call for furnace repairs, a furnace replacement will lower the repair bills, and will likely lower your monthly utility costs, too. Rising energy costs with no change in usage amounts could signal a decline in the overall efficiency of your furnace. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient model will give you more bang for your energy buck. Uneven heating throughout the living spaces could signal a ductwork issue. It’s time to call Brackett for a repair. The technician can determine if your challenge is with the furnace or the ducts and recommend the appropriate course of action. Strange noises coming from your furnace could mean a part needs repaired, or it may be a sign of a bigger problem, especially if your unit is older. Call Brackett Heating & Air for a diagnostic appointment. Knowing whether to upgrade and replace your furnace or to have it repaired isn’t a difficult decision when you have a knowledgeable company like Brackett Heating & Air on your side. Call Brackett today for any heating concerns you may have, whether for a furnace repair or a furnace replacement. We’ve been caring for your comfort in the Evansville area since 1949.

The Joy of Giving

January 30, 2019

As some of you in the Tristate have seen we ran a giveaway during December to donate a new Heating and Cooling System to someone in need. After receiving over 75 nominations we printed them out and read all of the stories. Many of the applicants were very deserving but we had to narrow it down to just one. We contacted 5 families and did an in home assessment of their equipment and met with them to hear their needs. One of the families stuck out to me. He had no heat and was keeping the house from freezing by turning on the oven with the door open and using oil space heaters in the room. Even though he had no heat, when I left, he told me that he was thankful for what we were doing and that he knew that there were a lot of needy people and to give it to the family that needed it the most. As I was lying in bed that evening that comment kept playing over and over in my head. When I came in the next day I shared that comment with our team and they agreed that the Wozniak Family was our pick. They had been nominated by their Daughter to receive the free system because they were raising 5 of their grandchildren in a home that hasn’t had heat since last March. The installation posed many obstacles with the house being built in the late 1800’s. They had been renting the house for 11 years before purchasing the house on contract the year before. When they moved to the house, the entire basement was filled with the past renters belongings and trash that they did not take with them when they moved out. When informing them that they had won the system, I talked to Teddy about cleaning out the basement so that we would have room to work. He agreed, but after leaving I didn’t really know if that was going to be a possibility unless he had help. So we contacted Advanced Disposal the next day and asked if they would be interested in partnering with us to help the Wozniak Family out. Joey Scott replied to my email over the weekend and was very excited to help us out on the project. He went to the house to see where the dumpster could be placed and came to the conclusion that a 6 yard dumpster was the largest that could fit on the property. I contacted Theodore and let him know the plan. We arrived at the house the day prior to installation and removed 3 ½ dumpsters of debris out of the basement. We removed the old ceiling from the basement and all of the return ductwork that was loaded with dirt. Only half of the supply ductwork was useable and many of the supply runs had to be replaced with insulated ductwork. The Crawlspace was cleaned and a vapor barrier was installed to keep moisture and odors from the living space. Insulation Board was cut to fit all of the single pane windows in the basement to prevent cold air from entering the home. Water lines were insulated with armoflex insulation to prevent sweating. The entire basement was cleaned and vacuumed out to give all of the children a place that they could feel safe walking into in case of a storm. Lennox had provided a High Efficient Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner to keep them comfortable all year long. After finishing the job that Friday evening, I could tell that the family was so excited and appreciative. There is truly no amount of money that can buy the feeling you get back when you help out someone in need. All the hard work was worth it. Thank you Tristate for the help in finding a Family to help out this Holiday Season. Thank you Lennox for providing the Equipment. Thank you Advanced Disposal for the dumpster so we could clean out the basement. Congratulations to the Wozniak Family, I hope you love your new system. Thanks, Bryce BrackettGeneral ManagerBrackett Heating and Air Conditioning

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