Category: HVAC Maintenance & Tune-Ups

Stay ahead of costly repairs with seasonal HVAC maintenance tips and preventative care advice. From Spring AC tune-up checklists to guidance on how often you should service your heating and cooling system, our maintenance articles help Southwest Washington homeowners keep their systems running efficiently year-round.

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Choosing the Right MERV Rating for Your Home

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When it comes to selecting an air filter, many homeowners assume that the highest MERV rating is always the best choice. In reality, the right filter depends on your home, your air quality needs, and most importantly, your HVAC system’s capabilities. At Experts Heating & Cooling Inc, we help homeowners find the right balance between cleaner air and optimal system performance.

A good starting point is to match your filter to your lifestyle and environment.

For most households, a MERV 8 filter is a reliable and cost-effective option.

It captures common airborne particles like dust, pollen, and lint while still allowing your HVAC system to maintain proper airflow. If your primary goal is protecting your equipment and maintaining basic indoor air quality, this is often the safest choice.
👉 Recommended replacement: Every 1–2 months to prevent buildup and maintain efficiency.

If you’re looking to improve your indoor air quality, MERV 10–11 filters are a great step up.

These filters can capture smaller particles such as mold spores, pet dander, and finer dust. They’re ideal for homes with moderate allergy concerns or higher levels of airborne contaminants. Many homeowners find this range offers the best balance between filtration and system efficiency.
👉 Recommended replacement: Every 2–3 months, depending on usage and indoor conditions.

For households dealing with pets, allergies, smoke, or other air quality concerns, a MERV 13 filter may be worth considering if.

These high-efficiency filters are capable of trapping very fine particles, including bacteria and smoke, helping create a noticeably cleaner indoor environment. However, this is where it’s important to proceed carefully.
👉 Recommended replacement: Every 2–3 months, or more frequently in homes with pets or heavy system use.

⚠️ Important: Not all HVAC systems are designed to handle high-MERV filters.

Higher-rated filters are more dense, which can restrict airflow if your system isn’t built to accommodate them. This can lead to reduced efficiency, uneven heating or cooling, increased energy costs, and even long-term wear or damage to your equipment. In some cases, upgrading to a higher MERV rating without proper guidance can actually create more problems than it solves.

That’s why at Experts we take a system-first approach. The goal isn’t just cleaner air—it’s achieving that without compromising the performance, efficiency, or lifespan of your HVAC system. Our team can help you determine exactly what your system can handle and recommend the best filter for your specific needs.

To make things even easier, we offer a convenient online filter store where you can find the right size and MERV rating for your home. Whether you’re looking for a dependable MERV 8 filter or upgrading to a higher-efficiency option, you can browse and order directly from us here:
👉 Shop Air Filters Online

Ordering through our store ensures you’re getting high-quality filters that are compatible with your system without the guesswork.

Keeping up with regular filter changes is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your HVAC system and maintain healthy indoor air. A clean filter allows your system to run efficiently, reduces strain on components, and helps keep your home comfortable year-round.

Choosing the right MERV rating doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance and the right products, you can improve your indoor air quality while keeping your HVAC system running in tip-top shape. If you ever have questions, Experts Heating & Cooling Inc is here to help every step of the way.

illuminated cottage house in winter countryside

Waiting on Snow: What Washington’s Unpredictable Winter Means for Your Heating System

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By Brittany Kent, VP of Experts Heating & Cooling Inc.

If this winter feels a little strange, you’re not imagining it.

Here in Washington, we’re well into the season and still haven’t seen much snow. The mornings have been cold, the air damp, and the forecasts keep hinting that winter weather is right around the corner — but so far, it’s been more of a slow burn than a deep freeze. And while that might feel like a break from heavy snowfall, it actually creates its own challenges for your heating system.

At Experts, we’ve noticed that this kind of unpredictable weather can be harder on HVAC systems than a steady cold snap. When temperatures hover in the 30s and 40s and then dip overnight, your furnace or heat pump has to constantly adjust. It runs longer cycles in the morning, rests during the afternoon, and then kicks back into high gear after sunset. That fluctuation puts strain on components and exposes small issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Many homeowners are calling us because their homes don’t feel quite as warm as they should. The system is running sometimes almost nonstop, but comfort levels are inconsistent. That’s often a sign your furnace needs maintenance, your heat pump is losing efficiency, or airflow isn’t balanced properly. Then when snow finally does arrive, those small issues can quickly turn into emergency heating repairs.

The damp Pacific Northwest air also plays a role. Even without snow, moisture affects outdoor units, especially heat pumps. It’s completely normal to see a heat pump enter defrost mode during cold mornings. What’s not normal is loud grinding, frequent cycling on and off, or a sudden spike in energy bills. Washington winters may be mild compared to other states, but they’re persistent and your heating system feels every bit of it.

One of the biggest concerns during an odd winter like this is being caught off guard. When the news keeps saying snow is coming, homeowners often wait. They assume they’ll address heating maintenance “before the storm hits.” But once freezing temperatures arrive, HVAC companies across the state get flooded with calls for furnace repair and emergency service.

At Experts, our goal is always to help families stay ahead of the rush. A simple heating inspection now can prevent a no-heat situation later. It can also improve efficiency, which matters as energy costs continue to fluctuate throughout Washington. Even small adjustments like cleaning components, checking airflow, inspecting electrical connections can make a noticeable difference in performance.

I always remind homeowners that comfort isn’t just about temperature. It’s about reliability. When you turn on the heat, you should trust that it will work whether we get snow this week or not at all.

If your furnace sounds different than it did last year, if your heat pump seems to struggle on colder mornings, or if your home just doesn’t feel evenly heated, it may be time to have it looked at. Our team is here to provide heating repair, heat pump service, and seasonal HVAC maintenance across Washington, helping you prepare for whatever this winter decides to bring.

Snow or no snow, winter isn’t over yet.

Stay warm,
Brittany Kent

With snow potentially on the way, now is a great time to learn more about protecting your heating system. Take a look at some of our related articles to stay one step ahead of winter.

How to prepare your HVAC system for a cold snap

Weatherization essential tips for a cozy home this winter

🍁 It’s Fall — Time to Show Your Heating System Some Love

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Now that the temperatures have dropped and the heat is on, it’s a great time to make sure your system is running safely and efficiently. A little preventative maintenance now can go a long way toward keeping your home comfortable and avoiding those mid-winter breakdowns.

At Experts Heating & Cooling, we recommend scheduling a Fall preventative maintenance visit to get your system professionally checked, cleaned, and ready for the colder months ahead. A quick tune-up can help your system run more efficiently, lower energy bills, and catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

DIY Fall Maintenance Checklist

Before our technicians arrive, you can do a few simple things at home to keep your system in top shape:

  • Replace or clean your air filters – a clean filter keeps your system running efficiently.
  • Check your thermostat settings – make sure your heat schedule matches your lifestyle.
  • Inspect vents and registers – ensure nothing is blocking airflow.
  • Clear the area around your furnace or heat pump – remove clutter, dust, or debris.
  • Listen for unusual noises – any strange sounds could indicate a problem.

During your professional maintenance appointment, our friendly technicians will inspect your heating equipment, test safety controls, clean or replace filters if needed, and make sure everything is operating safely and efficiently. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your home will stay warm and comfortable all season long.

Don’t wait until it’s freezing outside — call Experts Heating & Cooling today to schedule your fall maintenance and keep your system in top shape for the months ahead!

Be sure to ask about our Comfort Plans!

How to Prepare Your HVAC System for a Cold Snap

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At Experts Heating and Cooling, we understand that a sudden cold snap can catch you off guard. When temperatures drop drastically, it’s essential that your HVAC system is fully prepared to keep your home warm and safe. To help you avoid discomfort and potential system failures, we’ve put together a guide on how to get your heating system ready for a cold snap.

1. Check and Replace the Air Filter

One of the simplest but most effective ways to ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently is by checking and replacing the air filter. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow, leading to higher energy consumption and reduced heating efficiency. Before the cold sets in, inspect your filter and replace it if it’s clogged.

Pro Tip from Experts Heating and Cooling: Change your air filter every 1-3 months during winter to keep your system running smoothly.

2. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is key to a reliable heating system. At Experts Heating and Cooling, we recommend scheduling a professional inspection before the temperatures really drop. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive check-up on your HVAC system, addressing issues that could cause problems during a cold snap. This routine check-up helps extend the life of your HVAC system and ensures that everything is functioning properly before the cold hits.

3. Test Your Heating System

Don’t wait until the temperatures drop to test your furnace or heating system. Turn it on and make sure it’s working efficiently. Ensure warm air is circulating evenly throughout your home. If you notice any strange sounds, unusual smells, or poor heating, it’s best to call Experts Heating and Cooling right away for an inspection.

Pro Tip: If you have a thermostat, make sure it’s set to “heat” mode and adjust it to your desired temperature.

4. Seal Leaks and Insulate Ductwork

Cold air can creep in through even the smallest cracks around windows, doors, and your HVAC ducts. To prevent energy loss and ensure your HVAC system isn’t overworking, sealing leaks and insulating ductwork is a must. At Experts Heating and Cooling, we recommend taking the following steps to seal your home:

  • Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows
  • Use caulk to seal cracks around window frames and baseboards
  • Insulate exposed ducts in attics and crawl spaces

By taking these simple steps, you can increase your system’s efficiency and keep the warm air inside.

5. Ensure Proper Ventilation

A well-maintained HVAC system needs clear airflow to work efficiently. Make sure vents and air returns are free from obstructions like snow, debris, or furniture. Blocked vents can cause uneven heating or force your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.

Pro Tip from Experts Heating and Cooling: Regularly check your outdoor unit for snow or ice build-up, especially during a cold snap.

6. Check Your Thermostat Settings

A malfunctioning thermostat can make your heating system less effective during extreme cold. Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly and providing an accurate temperature reading. If your thermostat is outdated or inaccurate, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which offers more precise temperature control and energy savings.

Pro Tip: If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to lower the temperature when you’re away and raise it before you return. This can help save on heating costs without sacrificing comfort.

7. Check the Exhaust Flue

It’s important to ensure your furnace’s exhaust flue is clear of any blockages, such as ice, leaves, or debris. A blocked flue can prevent harmful gases from venting outside, potentially causing a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide inside your home. If you’re not sure how to inspect your flue, don’t hesitate to call Experts Heating and Cooling for a professional inspection.

8. Stock Up on Essential Supplies

In the event of a power outage or HVAC failure during a cold snap, it’s a good idea to have a few backup supplies on hand:

  • Extra blankets and warm clothing
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • A portable phone charger
  • Space heaters (used safely)

Having these essentials ready can keep you comfortable in case of an emergency.

9. Consider a Backup Heating Source

If you live in an area prone to extreme winter weather, consider installing a backup heating source, such as a space heater or a wood-burning stove. These options can help ensure you have a reliable heat source in the event your primary heating system fails.

Pro Tip: Always use space heaters according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and never leave them unattended.

10. Prepare for Power Outages

Severe cold weather can sometimes cause power outages. If this happens, it can impact your HVAC system and other essential appliances. Experts Heating and Cooling suggests having a backup power plan, such as a generator, to keep key systems running during an outage. This can be especially important if you rely on electric heat or have medical equipment that needs power.

Conclusion

A cold snap can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system, but with a little preparation, you can ensure your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the winter. At Experts Heating and Cooling, we’re here to help you with all your HVAC needs. Whether you need a professional maintenance check, emergency repairs, or advice on energy-saving tips, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team.

Stay ahead of the cold by preparing your HVAC system today. Contact Experts Heating and Cooling to schedule your inspection and get your home ready for whatever winter brings!

illuminated cottage house in winter countryside

Weatherization: Essential Tips for a Cozy Home this Winter

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Happy National Weatherization Day! At Experts Heating and Cooling, we believe that keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient is essential, especially as the colder months approach. Weatherization is the process of making your home more energy-efficient by sealing leaks and improving insulation, and it can lead to significant savings on your heating bills. Here are some practical tips to help you weatherize your home this winter.

Seal Windows and Doors

One of the easiest ways to prevent drafts is by checking the seals around your windows and doors. Use caulk to fill in any cracks or gaps, and consider applying weather-stripping to doors and windows that feel drafty. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature and comfort.

Insulate Your Attic

Heat rises, so having proper insulation in your attic is crucial. Check your current insulation levels and add more if necessary. Ideally, you should have at least 12-15 inches of insulation to keep your home warm and reduce heating costs. If you have pull-down stairs, consider insulating them as well to prevent heat loss.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. These devices allow you to program your heating schedule, ensuring that your home is warm when you need it and saving energy when you don’t. Many smart thermostats also provide insights into your energy usage, helping you make informed decisions.

Inspect Your Heating System

Before the cold weather sets in, it’s wise to have your heating system inspected by a professional. Regular maintenance ensures that your furnace or heat pump operates efficiently. Change your air filters regularly to maintain optimal airflow and improve air quality.

Insulate Pipes and Ducts

Exposed pipes in unheated areas can freeze and burst during extreme cold. Insulate them with foam sleeves or tape. Additionally, ensure your ductwork is properly insulated to prevent heat loss as air travels through your home.

Use Window Treatments

Heavy curtains or thermal blinds can provide an extra layer of insulation against cold windows. During the day, open them to let in natural sunlight and warmth, and close them at night to keep the heat in.

Check Your Roof

A well-maintained roof is vital for weatherization. Inspect for missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks and insulation issues. Consider adding roof vents if your attic lacks proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup and moisture problems.

Conclusion

Weatherizing your home not only enhances comfort but also saves money on energy bills. This National Weatherization Day, take the time to implement these tips and make your home a cozy haven for the winter months ahead. If you need assistance or have questions about your heating system, don’t hesitate to contact Experts Heating and Cooling. We’re here to help you stay warm and efficient all winter long!

Stay warm,
The Experts Heating and Cooling Team

It’s that time of year again!

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Fall HVAC maintenance is of utmost importance to ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system during the colder months. Regular maintenance not only enhances the longevity of your HVAC unit but also ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and indoor comfort for you and your family. Here are some key reasons why fall HVAC maintenance is essential:

  1. Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, saving energy and reducing utility bills. Fall maintenance typically involves cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting and cleaning the heating system, and checking thermostat settings. These tasks optimize the system’s performance, helping it consume less energy and operate at its peak efficiency.
  2. Prevention of Breakdowns: Fall HVAC maintenance allows technicians to identify and address potential issues before they turn into costly breakdowns. Regular inspections can detect problems such as worn-out components, loose electrical connections, or faulty thermostats. Resolving these issues in advance can prevent sudden system failures and ensure uninterrupted heating during the colder months.
  3. Improved Indoor Air Quality: HVAC maintenance includes cleaning or replacing air filters, which play a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality. Dirty or clogged filters can lead to poor air circulation, reduced efficiency, and a buildup of allergens or pollutants in the air. By replacing filters, cleaning ducts, and ensuring proper airflow, fall maintenance promotes healthier indoor air quality for you and your family.
  4. Extended System Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system. By keeping the system clean, lubricated, and free from excessive wear and tear, you can prevent premature failures and the need for costly replacements. Taking care of your HVAC unit through timely fall maintenance can save you money in the long run by avoiding major repairs or premature system replacements.
  5. Warranty Compliance: Many HVAC manufacturers require regular maintenance for warranty coverage. Neglecting scheduled maintenance can void your warranty, leaving you responsible for the full cost of any necessary repairs or replacements. By performing fall HVAC maintenance according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, you not only keep your system in top shape but also ensure warranty compliance and potential cost savings.

In conclusion, fall HVAC maintenance is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency, preventing breakdowns, improving indoor air quality, extending system lifespan, and complying with warranty requirements. By investing in regular maintenance, you can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free winter season while maximizing the performance and longevity of your HVAC system.

Ready to schedule your annual fall maintenance? Call the office at 360-335-1699 or click here to fill out a contact us form and one of our friendly staff will reach out to you.

How often should I schedule a maintenance?

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This weather has us thinking about fall, while we have a few weeks of summer left it is time to think about scheduling your fall maintenance. A frequent question that I hear is how often should I schedule a maintenance? Well, to answer that question there is a few things to think about. Do you have an indoor and outdoor unit? For example, Heat pump and air handler? AC and Furnace? Or do you only have a Furnace? We like to recommend that you maintain your heating equipment going into the fall to prepare for the cooler nights and that gives you time to make any repairs needed before the harsher winter weather arrives. Then in the spring time comes and it starts to warm up, that’s when we recommend doing a maintenance on the the cooling system. Maybe you don’t want to schedule two appointments a year, that’s ok, we also do full maintenance’s where we maintain both indoor and outdoor units at the same time annually. Call us and we can set you up with a reoccurring appointment to keep your system in tip top shape.

Fall Maintenance

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It’s the time of year again when the leaves start changing color and we see the words pumpkin spice everywhere we turn. Here’s some things to ponder while transitioning your home into the cooler weather.

What you should do regularly to ensure that your system is performing at peak operating levels.

  • Filter- Whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall- regular filter changes are the best way to keep your equipment running properly and keep your air as clean as possible. At the very least, you should change your filter once before the cooling season (Spring) and the heating season (Fall).
  • Leaves- If you have a heat pump or air conditioner, make sure to keep leaves and other debris away from the outdoor component to maintain proper airflow. Improper airflow can result in decreased performance and can cause the system to have potential breakdowns.
  • Thermostat- Fall can be a roller coaster of a season. To decrease utility bills you should stick to your programmed comfort schedule, or in the case that you do not have a programmable thermostat you should set the temperature and forget about it. Constantly fidgeting with the thermostat can result in a higher utility bill.
  • Cleaning indoors- Fall is another allergy season. It can be tempting to open all the windows and let in some cooler air. Clean indoors to make sure dust and allergens from outdoors aren’t settling on your surfaces and lowering indoor air quality.
  • Maintenance- Make sure to schedule an annual or semi-annual maintenance with Experts Heating and Cooling, Inc. This is the best way to ensure proper performance levels throughout winter.

Here are things Experts will do during a Fall furnace preventative maintenance appointment.

  • Clean- We will clean the burner, heat exchanger, and any other component if necessary.
  • Inspect- We will make sure the venting system is working properly.
  • Check- Our guys will look over the whole furnace to make sure there aren’t any problems, aren’t any rusty spots or leaks, and make sure the electric system is in tip-top shape.

Something to remember, HVAC systems (gas furnaces particularly) require the skills of a professional for proper maintenance, installation and repairs.

Now let’s cozy up to fall with our brisk mornings, yummy smelling candles and pumpkin spice lattes.

To schedule your Fall maintenance, Call Experts 360-335-1699

Home-Buying HVAC

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If you are looking at homes to purchase it’s important to check out the homes heating and cooling system. If the system is having problems, it may lead to expensive repairs or replacements that you’re not prepared for once you sign the contract. Here are 5 HVAC tasks to add to your home shopping check list:

  1. How old is the furnace? Don’t be afraid to ask how old the equipment is. You can even check the label on the furnace, air conditioner and heat pump. That label will show you the serial number and date of manufacture. HVAC systems average lifespan is about 15 years depending on how well its maintained.
  2. What is the Maintenance history? Ask the current owner if they have the maintenance and service records. You want to know if the equipment was regularly maintained, if it has had any repairs and what they were.
  3. Does the HVAC system have any energy upgrades? Energy upgrades like added insulation and ductwork sealing can make a big difference in the heating and cooling costs of a home.
  4. Ask for the Energy Bill. Look to see how much it will cost to heat and cool the home so you can budget that during home ownership. Higher that normal bills could mean a poorly sealed house or issues with the heating and cooling equipment.
  5. Ask Experts to get involved! If you have made an offer on a home, it’s a good idea to have a HVAC technician inspect the house in addition to the standard home inspector. We can thoroughly inspect the equipment before you officially sign the closing documents. Large problems, like a furnace replacement, can be negotiated for the seller to complete in order to close. It could also lower the asking price of the home.

Heating and Cooling are the two main things that keep you comfortable in your home year round. Make sure to get to know the homes HVAC system before you commit to buying, surprise repairs can be frustrating and costly. If you are buying a home make sure to call Experts to come do a thorough inspection of the homes equipment.

 

Is maintenance important?

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Before & After Maintenance

The answer is yes! Many people make an investment into their heating and cooling system, but fail to maintain proper upkeep. A heating and cooling system is similar to a car- it needs care and maintenance to work properly. A properly working system will keep your home cozy and cool for years to come, which is why annual maintenance is so important.

Some benefits from proper maintenance would be:

  • Lower Utility Bills- Properly running system can mean less money spent on electricity.
  • Healthy Air- Clean filters and coils mean better breathing for the whole family.
  • Efficiency- Research shows that dirty or unmaintained units need to work 20% harder to produce the same amount of cooling or heating as a well-maintained system.
  • Life of the System- The better a person maintains their heating and cooling system, the longer the system can function.

Is it time to schedule your annual maintenance?

Schedule online or call Experts at 360-335-1699