TUDI Blog

Light Safety This Holiday Season

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One of the best parts of the Christmas season are the colorful lights and decorations adorning homes down every street! But like any electrical related project at your home, some safety measures should be taken into consideration. Unfortunately, poorly hung Christmas lights and dry trees can increase your home’s risk of fire damage. To mitigate the chances of a fire this holiday season, it is important to follow these safety procedures while decorating for the holidays. Before hanging lights, make sure you are using the correct ones. There are two types of lights: indoor and outdoor. Outdoor lights are made to withstand harsh weather elements, while indoor lights can cause a fire if they are exposed to water. You should know the difference before accidentally hanging indoor lights outside. Inspect lights before using them. Make sure they have not been exposed to water or chewed on by household pests. While inspecting, you can also see what dead lightbulbs might need to be changed. To prevent future damage, store your lights in a dry area at the end of the season. We recommend a closet in the home, rather than a basement or attic. Where you string lights is very important. Be sure that outlets are not being overloaded with cords. Stay away from mixing and matching different types of bulbs. Right now the two popular types of Christmas lightbulbs are LED and incandescent. These two types of lights should never be plugged into each other. It is best to pick which type you like and stick with that throughout your decorating. We also recommended to not string more than 3 strands together, unless otherwise stated by the light manufacturer, because this could cause damage to your outlets and lights. While decorating outside, make sure to use rubber or plastic hooks and not metal to hang lights because this could cause an electric shock or start a fire. Decorating for the holidays is a wonderful way to bond with the family, but safety always needs to be considered. If you follow these guidelines, you can protect your home and loved ones from possible issues and keep your Christmas merry and bright!

The Pittsburgh Homeowner’s Guide to Whole House Surge Protection

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Power surges can happen anywhere at any time and the damage they can cause to your home has the potential to increases every year. Any device or appliance that is connected to or charged by electricity is susceptible to power surge damage. Take a moment to think about the number of devices you have in your home today. In 2023, a study conducted by Parks Associates found that the average U.S. household with internet access had 17 connected devices, from TV’s and smartphones to smart home devices, security systems, tablets, and more. What’s more, this study fails to mention the number of electronic appliances one would find in the average home. With the ever-increasing number of devices you own, the more urgent it is to make sure your house is prepared for a potential power surge. A power surge is a sudden spike in electricity. The first thing you need to understand is, electricity is never emitted at a consistent amount of voltage. The standard American home uses 120 – volt electrical power but the voltage being delivered through your outlets normally fluctuates between 0 and 169 volts.  So, anything over 169 volts is considered a power surge for a home with the standard power voltage. Powerful surges can lead to electrical complications, irreparable damage to appliances and electronics, and even house fires. The source of a power surges can happen from both inside and outside your home: The Natural Elements: lightning, wind, trees falling on power lines, etc. Power Outages: planned by utility companies, equipment failure, etc. Electrical Overloads: too many electronics plugged into one circuit Faulty Wiring: old or frayed Not sure if you are at high risk of a power surge?  Look for these signs: Burning odor omitting from outlets Flickering or dimming lights Scorching on outlets or around wires Smoking or overheating outlets Frayed wires The best way to prepare for a power surge is to invest in surge protection. There are two main types of surge protection: point-of-use and whole house surge protection. Point-of-use protection shields individual devices, whereas whole house surge protection shields your house’s electrical system and devices from your main electrical panel. It is advised to use a combination of both types to provide the best overall protection for your home. We understand that preparing your house for a power surge can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, our TUDI electrical team is here to help! Let our electrical experts help protect you and your family from a power surge today by visiting our Home Service page.

Preparing Your Pittsburgh HVAC System for Winter

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The seasons are changing, and the holidays are just around the corner as Pittsburgh homeowners excitedly await the upcoming festivities, snowy landscapes, and delicious food. So be prepared for heating season this winter and make sure your HVAC system is equipped for those cold winter nights. Fall is the perfect time to check on your HVAC System performance before the weather takes a drastic turn for the colder months ahead. Planning your furnace maintenance and upkeep ahead of time can save your system from unexpected breakdowns during the frosty months, and ensures your family stays toasty warm.  Saving Energy: Your furnace works hard to keep your house heated. Routine maintenance reduces the amount of energy used by your system – which leads to lower energy costs and more money back in your pocket. Cost Efficiency: Checking your system regularly allows you to avoid expensive repairs and higher energy bills.  System Longevity: The more you take care of your possessions, the longer they last. This is also true for your HVAC system. Just like an oil change in your car, regular maintenance can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC. Heating System: Set your thermostat to a desired temperature to test if your unit is functioning properly. Also, check for any strange sounds or smells that could indicate the need for an inspection.  Ventilation: Make sure all vents and air ducts are open, unobstructed and clean to avoid blockages and improve airflow.  Air Filters: Replace dirty filters regularly to ensure quality performance and airflow.  Thermostat: Check that your thermostat reflects the room temperature accurately and consider upgrading to a smart programmable thermostat for more temperature control and energy efficiency. Prepare your outdoor unit for the winter weather by cleaning away debris and vegetation, to maintain access to the unit as needed. Be sure to clear the unit of any snow and ice that may accumulate throughout the winter months.   Here at TUDI Mechanical Systems, we understand that DYI maintenance solutions can only take you so far in making sure your system runs smoothly. Additionally, most people don’t have the time to routinely check their HVAC system and deal with the upkeep. We’re always here to help when you need us. Let our team free up your time from HVAC maintenance with our Home Comfort Plan, which offers affordable year-round care that is tailored to your needs.   Visit our Home Services page to learn more about how we can help take your HVAC worries away for the upcoming holiday season. 

How to Choose the Best HVAC Contractor

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At TUDI Mechanical Systems, we understand that installing a new air conditioning or heating system isn’t just another item on your to-do list—it’s about ensuring long-term comfort and efficiency in your home.  There are a few ways you can identify a trusted contractor through all the noise, and we’re here to teach you what to look out for. Your journey to find a reliable HVAC contractor can start by chatting with friends and family. Getting a recommendation from someone you trust can save you a lot of time and effort. If your cousin recently raved about their new HVAC system, ask them who made it happen! A reliable contractor will be proud of their affiliations. Check if they’re registered with the Better Business Bureau of Western Pennsylvania, American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), or Energy Star. These affiliations are not just badges—they’re a sign of trustworthiness and quality. NATE certification stands for North American Technician Excellence certification. It’s a nationally recognized certification program in the United States. HVAC technicians who earn NATE certification have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems. A true professional doesn’t give estimates over the phone, as this often leads to over-promising and under-delivering. Your home is unique, and so are its HVAC needs. A good contractor will insist on assessing your current system, ductwork, and energy efficiency to tailor their services specifically for your home. It’s wise to shop around. Gather offers from different contractors but look beyond just the price tag. Sometimes, a slightly higher investment means better warranties and guaranteed quality service.  However, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true—they usually are. You may get a low-cost evaluation, but companies may overcharge you on the back end once you have committed. Also, a low price tag typically means underskilled, overworked technicians or lower quality work. First impressions matter. The professionalism and courtesy you receive during initial interactions are likely indicative of the ongoing service you will receive. At TUDI, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of customer service, from the first call to the final installation. For more in-depth guidance or questions about HVAC systems, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at TUDI Mechanical Systems. Serving Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, we’re not just contractors; we’re your neighbors committed to ensuring your home is a sanctuary of comfort and efficiency.

What Every Pittsburgh Homeowner Should Know About Electrical Safety

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Electricity is crucial in our daily lives. It lights up our homes, keeps us connected, and makes life comfortable. But mishandling it can be dangerous. As a homeowner, it’s vital to focus on electrical safety to keep your family and property safe. Here are some important tips to remember: Have a qualified electrician regularly check your home’s electrical system. They can spot potential issues like loose connections or outdated wiring that could cause harm. Don’t plug too many devices into one outlet or power strip. This can cause overheating and lead to fires. If you often need to use multiple devices in the same area, consider having a professional install additional outlets. While handy, extension cords shouldn’t be a permanent fix. Prolonged use may damage the cords and increase the risk of an electrical fire. If you need electricity in an area where there are no outlets, it is safest to have new outlets installed by a licensed electrician. If you have young children, invest in child-proof outlets or outlet covers to prevent curious fingers from getting into the outlets. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents. Check and maintain your electrical devices regularly. Replace frayed cables or defective devices immediately. Neglecting defective appliances can leave you vulnerable to electrical fires.. Never use electrical appliances near water sources and make sure your bathroom and kitchen outlets are equipped with residual current circuit breakers (GFCIs). GFCIs automatically shut off power when they detect a ground fault, reducing the risk of electric shock. Outdoor outlets and lighting should be designed for outdoor use and installed by a pro. Protect them from moisture, and don’t run extension cords across walkways. Familiarize yourself with your home’s electrical panel and how to turn off the power in an emergency. Label circuit breakers and fuses clearly so you can quickly identify them. Invest in surge protectors to protect your devices and electronics from surges caused by lightning or other electrical disturbances. For added security, consider a whole-house surge protector. When in doubt, it is always best to consult a licensed electrician. If you notice flickering lights, electrical smells, or circuit breakers tripping frequently, these may be signs of underlying problems that require professional attention. Remember that electrical safety should not be taken lightly. Electrical safety is a shared responsibility, so ensure that all members of your household are aware of these guidelines. By following these electrical safety tips and proactively maintaining your home’s electrical system, you can create a safer environment for your family and eliminate unnecessary risks.  If you ever have concerns about your home’s electrical system or need professional help to ensure its safety, please contact a qualified electrician in Pittsburgh. Their expertise can give you the peace of mind that electricity is flowing smoothly in your home.

Indoor Air Quality – Get Ready for Spring

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Spring heralds a season of renewal and growth, offering a fresh start after the long winter months. While many of us cherish this time of year, it also introduces challenges like spring allergies and concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ). Recent studies indicate a rising number of individuals suffering from asthma and allergies, making the air we breathe as crucial to our well-being as the food we eat and the water we drink. There are many steps and measures that can be taken to help increase the quality of your indoor air.  Below are some general best practices and tips to ensure that you and your family can breathe easy: Upgrade Your Filters: Start by changing your HVAC filters. If you’re still using standard filters, it’s the perfect time to discuss advanced options with TUDI. Our experts are ready to recommend the best filters for your system to enhance your home’s air quality significantly.  Opt for UV Purification: While filters trap particles, they don’t combat viruses and bacteria. Incorporating an ultraviolet (UV) light system into your home is an optimal solution for purifying the air and maintaining a healthy living environment within your HVAC system.. Establish Clean Air Practices: The following best practices can help to boost the clean air you breathe within your home.  These simple housekeeping steps can have a big impact. Air Cleaners: Consider a whole-house system that combines UV lamps, high-efficiency filters, and catalytic converters to address all classes of pollutants, from particulate matter to odors and volatile organic compounds. No-Shoe Policy: Reduce indoor allergens by adopting a no-shoe policy inside your home. This simple change can prevent pollen and other irritants from spreading indoors. Mind Your Wardrobe: Clothes can carry allergens indoors. Avoid placing outdoor-worn clothing on beds and opt for a change of clothes to minimize allergy triggers. Maintain Bedding: Frequently wash your bedding in hot water to deter dust mites, a common allergen, and consider using protective covers for mattresses and pillows. Explore Enhanced Cleaning Techniques: Smart Dusting: Use tools with electrostatic materials to trap and remove dust and allergens effectively, rather than dispersing them back into the air. HEPA Vacuum Cleaners: Upgrade to a HEPA vacuum cleaner, which can trap allergens permanently, ensuring they are removed from your living space. Control Humidity: Keep humidity levels under control to prevent the growth of mold spores and bacteria. Consider using dehumidifiers or installing UV lights to further purify the air in areas of high moisture. Don’t let allergens dampen your spring spirit. Take proactive steps to improve the air quality in your home with these recommendations. By integrating these strategies, you can create a healthier environment that lets you and your loved ones breathe easier this spring.

Preparing Your Pittsburgh HVAC System for Spring

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As winter’s chill fades away, our thoughts eagerly turn to the refreshing embrace of spring. It’s a time of renewal, with nature awakening, gardens blooming, and the promise of warmth in the air. Amidst this seasonal shift, it’s important not to overlook a key task: preparing your HVAC system for the change. Spring maintenance isn’t just about comfort; it’s about making sure your system runs efficiently, lasts longer, and keeps your indoor air quality high. Spring offers an ideal window for HVAC maintenance. With milder weather, you can thoroughly assess your system and address any cooling issues without the rush of extreme temperatures. This proactive approach can prevent unexpected breakdowns during the summer, ensuring your home stays comfortable no matter the weather. Energy Efficiency: Like a car with a flat tire guzzles more fuel, a neglected HVAC system works harder, leading to higher energy bills. Regular spring maintenance reduces inefficiencies and cuts down on energy costs. System Longevity: Neglect can wear down your system prematurely, just like driving on a flat tire wears down your car. Proper maintenance reduces stress on your HVAC components, extending its lifespan. Indoor Air Quality: Without maintenance, your HVAC system can spread pollutants and allergens, affecting your indoor air. Spring maintenance ensures clean filters and coils, promoting healthier air indoors. Cost Savings: Routine maintenance prevents expensive repairs and lowers energy bills, making it a smart investment for your home and your wallet. Air Conditioning Unit: Check the outdoor unit for damage, clear debris, and inspect refrigerant levels to ensure it’s ready for warmer weather. Air Filters: Replace dirty filters to improve airflow and system efficiency, crucial for better performance and air quality. Coils and Drains: Clean evaporator and condenser coils, and clear condensate drains to prevent water damage and maintain humidity levels. Thermostat Calibration: Ensure your thermostat accurately reflects room temperature. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for more energy savings and comfort control. Heating System: Even though it’s spring, checking your heating system after winter can identify any issues before they become major problems. Ventilation: Inspect and clean air ducts and room vents, especially if you have pets or recent renovations. Check for leaks and ensure proper ventilation in every room. Clear debris and trim vegetation around your outdoor unit to maintain airflow and inspect for any winter damage. Preparing your HVAC system for spring means more than just cleaning; it’s about keeping your home comfortable, safe, and efficient year-round. While some tasks can be DIY, professional expertise ensures a thorough check-up. At TUDI Mechanical Systems, we understand the importance of HVAC maintenance. Our Home Comfort Plan offers tailored solutions for reliable and affordable care year-round. Don’t let your HVAC system become an afterthought; give it the attention it deserves this spring. Visit Tudi Home Services to discover more about how we can help you embrace each season with confidence, ensuring your HVAC system is a reliable source of comfort year-round.

De-Winterizing Your Pittsburgh Home: A Plumbing Guide

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As the chilly embrace of winter loosens around Pittsburgh, homeowners begin to think about the transition into the warmer months. De-winterizing your home, particularly the plumbing, is a critical step to ensure a seamless shift into spring and summer. The last thing anyone wants is a plumbing mishap after surviving the cold. Here’s a comprehensive guide to de-winterizing your home’s plumbing in the Pittsburgh area. Before diving into the de-winterizing process, it’s crucial to have a plan. Pittsburgh’s weather can often be unpredictable in the early spring, so keep an eye on the forecast. You’ll want to start de-winterizing once you’re confident that the temperatures won’t dip below freezing again. Cold winters can be harsh on plumbing. Begin your de-winterizing process by inspecting all visible pipes for signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to freezing, such as outdoor spigots, unheated basements, or crawl spaces. If you discover any damage, it’s best to call a professional plumber to repair it before proceeding. If you turned off the main water supply for winter to prevent freezing, the first step is to turn it back on. However, this should be done slowly to avoid a sudden increase in pressure, which can cause weak points in your plumbing to fail. As you turn the water back on, listen for any unusual noises that might indicate a leak. Outdoor spigots and irrigation systems are usually the first victims of winter’s freeze. When de-winterizing these, make sure to: Open the valves slowly. Check for leaks both outside and where the pipes run inside your home. Inspect sprinkler heads for damage and clean out any debris. For more complex irrigation systems, consider hiring a professional to ensure they are properly de-winterized and ready for use. Winter demands a lot from your water heater, making post-winter maintenance essential. Flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup improves efficiency and extends the life of your heater. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a professional can perform the service, which also includes checking the anode rod and pressure relief valve. Spring in Pittsburgh often brings rain, so ensuring your sump pump is in working order is crucial to prevent basement flooding. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the sump pit until the pump activates. If it doesn’t work, or you hear unusual sounds, it may need maintenance or replacement. While many aspects of de-winterizing can be DIY, a professional plumber can offer peace of mind by performing a thorough inspection. This is particularly valuable in older Pittsburgh homes, where hidden problems can sometimes go unnoticed until they become emergencies. De-winterizing your plumbing is an essential step in preparing your home for the warmer months ahead. By taking the time to inspect and maintain your plumbing system, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of water damage. Remember, prevention is key to enjoying a hassle-free spring and summer. Should you encounter any issues beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. Welcome the warmer weather with confidence, knowing your home is prepared.

Furnace Not Igniting: What Are Common Causes & How To Fix

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The thought of a broken furnace during the colder winter months sends shivers down your spine, not quite as chilling as when the furnace fails to heat up. If your gas furnace’s igniter isn’t working, it could be a minor inconvenience or a major problem if outside temperatures are below freezing. Problems with the electronic ignition system often cause gas furnaces to shut down or even cause long-term system failures. In this guide, we’ll help you diagnose the cause of this common problem and figure out what to check before you need to call for an emergency repair service. If your furnace won’t ignite, it can cause a lot of problems. Each furnace has its own internal components that need to be checked to resolve this issue. A furnace converts heat energy from gas to heat the air and distribute it throughout your home or building. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call 911. If you see a flashing light on your furnace, contact a furnace repair company immediately. If you don’t smell gas or see a flashing light, check each of these points to determine the cause of your ignition problem. One of the most common reasons a furnace won’t turn on is that your gas line is blocked or clogged. The pipe that the furnace draws its fuel from may be clogged or too small for the furnace. If this gas valve or gas supply is blocked in any way, your furnace will not be able to receive enough natural gas to start properly and safely, leaving you without heat in your home. The solution here would be to hire a technician to check your system. A professional can check where your furnace’s natural gas source is coming from and whether there are any obstructions in the city gas line, such as tree branches or debris, blocking it. Ideally, you should have at least 6 inches of free space for this line to function properly. If your furnace requires a larger gas line than you currently use, your furnace may not turn on. This can be confirmed by a gas pressure gauge that our technicians have and know how to use. Our technicians can contact your furnace manufacturer and purchase an adapter that will allow you to connect a larger gas line. You need to make sure you don’t risk having too much gas in your furnace as this could damage internal parts such as the pressure regulator or safety controls. However, a gas shortage is easily remedied by adding additional length of natural gas line or an adjustable regulator. You may be having problems with your furnace not turning on or simply not producing heat. These problems can easily be fixed by cheking your furnace thermostat or calling a technician to inspect, as there could also be other problems that could be causing the furnace not to turn on. If nothing seems to be working on your furnace even after replacing its components, a furnace replacement could be in the near future. This is a better choice than constantly investing in new parts that can add up over time. For major furnace problems, your furnace’s air filters should be replaced every 90 days up to four times a year. A dirty air filter makes it virtually impossible to remove debris before it can cause problems later. This is because over time it becomes clogged with dirt and dust particles, making it difficult for it to enter your furnace. The easiest solution you can find to fix this problem is to replace your air filter. Call a furnace repair technician if the problem persists. If your furnace has been running without problems and suddenly no longer ignites, there is a high probability that the electronic ignition system is defective or that the pilot lights upstream of the ignition process have been switched off. The first step is to determine which of these two components is not working by paying attention to what your furnace is doing before attempting to turn it on again. If it clicks but your furnace won’t ignite after the combustion cycle, the electronic ignition systems probably need to be replaced. In cases where the furnace ignition starts normally but only stays on for a few minutes and then goes out, a new pilot light likely needs to be installed. Dirt builds up on your HVAC system’s burners, preventing them from burning evenly and at the proper height. The thermostat is set to a lower value than the target temperature, causing your heating system to work harder and use more energy to keep your home warm. The flames may not burn fully if the burners are clogged with debris, creating a higher amount of carbon monoxide in your system. You can spot clean them by blowing compressed air through each one and wiping the outside with a brush or cloth. It’s also helpful to dust your home regularly to prevent debris from getting into your furnace. Another furnace problem is the furnace not burning because the flame sensor is not working properly. A furnace’s flame sensor determines whether it should continue firing and, if necessary, shuts off once it detects a faulty flame signal. This furnace error essentially causes the furnace to spin out of control and not know when to stop producing large amounts of heat, which can cause your furnace to overheat. To fix this, you will need to clean your furnace’s vents and then unplug it until a service technician can come out to see what might be wrong with the furnace and repair the various components. If there is a strong draft in your basement or attic, or if there is a strong wind, the pilot light may not light. Additionally, if your furnace has a faulty or malfunctioning draft motor or fan, the pilot light will not light. The purpose of the draft motor is to pull air in and out of your chimney or vent.

What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in Winter

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Does your family constantly argue about thermostat settings in the winter? It’s time to settle the family dispute over the right thermostat temperature in winter. Keep cool or warm, we should say. In this article we will help you answer these questions: What temperature is best to set your thermostat to in winter? What temperature should you set your thermostat to at night in winter? What temperature should you set your thermostat to when traveling in the winter? What is the lowest temperature to set your thermostat in winter? Let’s now start with the most important question: Every person reacts differently to the weather and the change of seasons. The temperature outside can disrupt our mood and cause us to adjust the temperature by turning on the furnace, laying under a fleece blanket, and watching something on the couch. However, the truth is that heating your home in winter takes a lot of energy. And with natural gas prices expected to be 45% higher than last winter, families across the United States must find a way to reduce their heating bills while keeping the family warm. The best way to save energy and reduce your monthly heating costs is to properly adjust your thermostat to keep the temperature in your home at the right comfort level this winter. According to ENERGY STAR, the best temperature to set your thermostat this winter is 68 degrees Fahrenheit. 68 degrees may seem like a low number to many, but there are benefits to limiting your home to this temperature. Forcing your furnace or heating system to keep indoor temperatures high even though it’s frosty outside can put a lot of strain on your HVAC. A furnace that is constantly running to reach a higher temperature setting will drive up your heating costs, and the additional operating load on your system can increase the risk of furnace repair. Maintaining a moderate temperature setting for heating your home this winter will not only provide enough warmth for your family, but can also result in energy savings by reducing your heating energy bill costs and increasing the life of your furnace. You’d think that when temperatures drop at night in the winter, you’d want to turn on the furnace when you go to sleep, right? Not so fast. The U.S. Department of Energy says an indoor temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit is best at night. Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature at night can actually help you sleep better. Doctors know that our body temperature drops at night. If it is too cold or too hot indoors at night, our body’s internal temperature will fluctuate and sleep may become more irregular. Are you heading away from home and somewhere warm this winter? (Lucky) Maybe you’ve had the idea of saving energy by turning off your furnace completely while on vacation. You always want to keep the heater at a certain level, especially if pets are left at home. If you have houseplants or pets that won’t come along, consider adjusting your thermostat accordingly. Houseplants require an indoor temperature of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit to stay alive. And for your four-legged friends, keeping the thermostat no lower than 64 degrees Fahrenheit will keep your pets safe and comfortable while you’re away. To prevent your appliances and pipes from freezing, the thermostat setting should be at least between 50 and 55 degrees in the winter. The worst way to end a vacation or wake up one morning is to a frozen dishwasher or a flooded basement. The same applies to vacation properties that remain unoccupied in the winter or to rental properties without tenants for the winter. You always want to have some warmth in the house to protect yourself from property damage. It often doesn’t make sense to pay to replace a working product unless it can save you money. With programmable thermostats or a smart thermostat, you can save money by reducing your heating costs year-round. Here you can program your temperature settings according to the recommendations of our home comfort specialists and set your thermostat on autopilot. Whether you’re sleeping, commuting, or playing in the snow with the kids, upgrading your thermostat can help you control your home’s heating schedule while saving up to 10 to 12 percent on your annual heating bills. Here are some other quick tips to help you reduce your utility bills while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature for the whole family to enjoy. Once your family gets used to the cold winter weather, lower the temperature in the house by one degree each week. Ultimately, you will all feel more comfortable with a lower thermostat setting, thereby reducing heating costs. It’s important to schedule heating maintenance each fall before the temperatures outside get really cold. A well-maintained boiler or heating system will ensure your family stays comfortable this winter and potential problems are proactively identified before the system fails. If your existing system is more than 10 years old, it’s time to think about installing a new furnace and upgrading to a newer HVAC system. Furnaces built today are up to 15% more efficient and can produce the same, if not more, heat than older models. A multi-zone heating and cooling system allows you to set your HVAC system to a different comfortable temperature in different parts of your home. Although multi-zone heating systems are more expensive than a typical HVAC unit, they offer the best control over the indoor temperature throughout the home. Looking for other ways to cut costs this winter? TUDI Mechanical Systems is Pittsburgh’s leading home service provider offering heating and cooling services. Call us to schedule a routine inspection of your HVAC system today.