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The Benefits of Different Heating Systems: Finding the Right Fit for Your Home

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

mother and her daughter enjoying hot teaAs winter approaches, ensuring your home is warm and cozy becomes a top priority. With various heating options available, it’s important to understand the benefits of each system to make an informed decision. Here’s a look at the advantages of ductless heating, furnaces, boilers, and heat pump systems.

Ductless Heating

Ductless heating systems, also known as mini-split systems, offer several advantages, especially for homes without existing ductwork. These systems consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, providing targeted heating.

  • Energy Efficiency: Ductless systems are highly efficient since they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork. Each indoor unit can be independently controlled, allowing you to heat specific zones in your home, reducing overall energy consumption.
  • Easy Installation: Installing a ductless system is less invasive than traditional HVAC systems. There’s no need for extensive ductwork, making it an ideal solution for older homes or additions.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Without ducts to collect dust and debris, ductless systems can improve indoor air quality. Many models also come with advanced filtration options to reduce allergens and pollutants.

Furnaces

Furnaces are one of the most common heating systems in the United States, known for their reliability and powerful performance.

  • Wide Availability: Furnaces are widely available and come in various models, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and budget.
  • Consistent Heating: Furnaces provide consistent, reliable heating throughout your home, ensuring comfort even in the coldest weather.
  • Long Lifespan: With proper maintenance, furnaces can last 15-20 years or more, making them a durable investment.

Boilers

Boilers provide radiant heat by circulating hot water or steam through pipes and radiators, offering a different approach to home heating.

  • Comfortable Heat: Radiant heat from boilers provides even, comfortable warmth without the dry air associated with forced-air systems.
  • Efficiency: Modern boilers are highly efficient and can offer significant energy savings, especially when paired with zone heating.
  • Quiet Operation: Boilers operate quietly, making them an excellent choice for those who value a peaceful home environment.

Heat Pump Systems

Heat pumps are versatile systems that can provide both heating and cooling, making them a popular choice for year-round comfort.

  • Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are highly efficient because they transfer heat rather than generate it. They can provide up to three times more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume.
  • Dual Functionality: Heat pumps can reverse their operation to cool your home in the summer, offering a two-in-one solution.
  • Environmentally Friendly: By transferring heat from either the air or the ground (geothermal), heat pumps produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based systems.

If you’re considering a new heating system, Boelcke can help.

Choosing the right heating system for your home depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the layout of your home. Each of these systems offers unique benefits that can help keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the winter months. Boelcke can help you choose the right option for your home. Just give us a call and we will be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Tips for Making Your Home Guest-Friendly This Holiday Season

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

friends having fun while talking during Thanksgiving dinner at dining table.The holiday season is a time for gathering with family and friends, celebrating traditions, and creating cherished memories. As you prepare to welcome guests into your home, it’s important to ensure that your space is comfortable and accommodating. Here are some tips to make your home guest-friendly this holiday season, including a few that highlight the importance of your HVAC and plumbing systems.

1. Create a Warm and Cozy Environment

The first step to making your home inviting is to ensure it’s warm and cozy. This is where your HVAC system plays a crucial role. Make sure your heating system is in good working order by scheduling a maintenance check before the holiday rush. A well-maintained HVAC system will keep your home at a comfortable temperature, ensuring your guests feel cozy and welcome.

2. Set Up a Welcoming Guest Room

A comfortable guest room is key to making your visitors feel at home. Fresh linens, extra blankets, and pillows can make a big difference. Additionally, make sure the room is well-ventilated. If you have a ductless mini-split system, you can easily adjust the temperature in the guest room to suit your guests’ preferences, adding an extra touch of hospitality.

3. Enhance Indoor Air Quality

Good indoor air quality is essential for a healthy and comfortable home environment. Consider investing in air purifiers or HVAC systems with advanced filtration to reduce allergens, dust, and other pollutants. This is especially important if your guests have allergies or respiratory issues. Clean, fresh air will make your home more pleasant and welcoming.

4. Ensure Plenty of Hot Water

During the holiday season, your home’s hot water demand increases with more people using showers, sinks, and appliances. Make sure your water heater is functioning properly and consider upgrading to a tankless water heater if you frequently host large gatherings. Tankless water heaters provide continuous hot water, so your guests won’t have to worry about running out during their stay.

5. Create a Festive Atmosphere

Decorations play a big part in creating a festive atmosphere. String lights, seasonal decor, and a beautifully decorated tree can transform your home into a holiday wonderland. Don’t forget to set up a cozy seating area where guests can relax and enjoy each other’s company.

6. Stock Up on Essentials

Make sure your home is well-stocked with essentials like toiletries, towels, and snacks. Place these items in easily accessible locations so guests can help themselves without feeling like they need to ask. A small basket with travel-sized toiletries in the guest bathroom can be a thoughtful touch.

7. Check Plumbing Fixtures

Before your guests arrive, check all plumbing fixtures to ensure they are in good working order. Fix any leaks or drips, and make sure toilets and sinks are functioning properly. This will prevent any unexpected issues from arising during your holiday gatherings and ensure your home runs smoothly.

8. Plan for Extra Seating

When hosting holiday gatherings, having enough seating is crucial. Arrange your furniture to create a comfortable and spacious seating area where guests can socialize. Consider renting or borrowing extra chairs if needed to accommodate everyone.

9. Prepare for Unexpected Weather

Weather can be unpredictable during the holiday season. Be prepared for any sudden changes by ensuring your home is well-insulated and your HVAC system is capable of handling colder temperatures. This will keep your home warm and your guests comfortable, no matter what the weather brings.

10. Add Personal Touches

Lastly, adding personal touches can make your guests feel truly special. A handwritten welcome note, a basket of their favorite snacks, or a cozy throw blanket on their bed can show that you’ve put thought into making their stay enjoyable.

Boelcke can help ensure your heating system and plumbing are guest-ready.

By following these tips, you can create a warm, welcoming, and comfortable environment for your holiday guests. Ensuring that your HVAC and plumbing systems are in top condition will not only enhance your guests’ experience but also provide peace of mind during the busy holiday season. If you need help with your home’s plumbing or heating, Boelcke is ready to assist you. Just give us a call at (269) 429-9261 and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Don’t Be Haunted By a Neglected Heating System – Choose Maintenance!

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

Frightened woman sitting on the couch and watching a horror movie on TV, she is hugging a pillowAs the fall season sets in and Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to think about the spooky surprises that could be lurking in your home. No, we’re not talking about ghosts or goblins—we mean the ghastly consequences of neglecting your heating system! Just like the eerie shadows that dance on your walls, a poorly maintained heating system can bring some unwelcome frights. Let’s dive into the scary things that can happen when you skip on heating maintenance and why it’s crucial to keep your system in tip-top shape.

5 Scary Things That Can Happen When You Neglect Your Heating System

  1. Cold Spots – A Spooky Ghost? Or a Poorly Functioning Heating System?

Ever felt a sudden chill in the air? Those cold spots in your home might not be from a spooky ghost, but rather an inefficient heating system. Poor maintenance can lead to uneven heating, making some rooms feel like haunted iceboxes.

  1. Goosebumps – System Breakdown on a Chilly Night

Imagine snuggling under your blankets on a frigid night, only to have your heating system break down. Goosebumps aren’t just for scary movies—an unexpected system failure can leave you shivering in the cold. Regular maintenance helps prevent these chilly surprises.

  1. Cobwebs – A Poorly Maintained System Doesn’t Filter Air Properly

Cobwebs and dust bunnies creeping up in your home? A neglected heating system doesn’t filter air efficiently, leaving dust and allergens to settle in your living spaces. Proper maintenance ensures clean air and a dust-free environment.

  1. Creaks and Groans – It’s Not a Ghoul, But Your System Breaking Down

Those eerie creaks and groans from your basement might not be a ghoul after all. Parts on a poorly maintained heating system wear down quickly, causing squeals and screeches. Regular check-ups keep your system running smoothly and quietly.

  1. The Worst Ghoul of All – Safety Concerns

The scariest part of neglecting your heating system is the potential safety risks. Fire hazards, carbon monoxide poisoning, and gas leaks are real threats. Keeping up with maintenance ensures your system operates safely, protecting your home and loved ones.

Boelcke Can Help Keep Your Heating System Running Properly

At Boelcke Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer comprehensive heating maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently and safely. Our expert technicians provide thorough inspections, cleaning, and tune-ups to ensure optimal performance. We’ll catch any potential issues before they become costly problems, giving you peace of mind and a warm, cozy home.

Don’t let your heating system haunt you this fall. Schedule your maintenance service with Boelcke Heating & Air Conditioning today and enjoy a worry-free season. Call us now to book your appointment and experience the benefits of professional heating maintenance.

Do I Need Fall Plumbing Maintenance?

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

As the vibrant colors of fall begin to emerge and the air turns crisp, it’s a clear reminder that winter is just around the corner. While you might be busy enjoying the seasonal festivities, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of maintaining your plumbing system during this transitional period.

Fall plumbing maintenance is essential to ensure your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable throughout the colder months. Below, learn more about why it should be a priority on your fall checklist, and how Boelcke can help. Keep reading to learn more!

6 Reasons Why Fall Plumbing Maintenance is Important

  1. Preventing Frozen Pipes

One of the most significant risks during the winter is frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to burst and lead to extensive water damage. By insulating your pipes and ensuring they are in good condition during the fall, you can prevent this costly and inconvenient problem.

  1. Avoiding Costly Repairs

Regular maintenance helps identify and fix minor issues before they escalate into major problems. Leaks, clogs, and other plumbing issues can worsen over time, leading to expensive repairs. Fall is the perfect time to address these issues, ensuring your plumbing system is in top shape before the winter stress tests it.

  1. Ensuring Efficient Water Heating

As temperatures drop, the demand for hot water increases. Ensuring your water heater is functioning efficiently is crucial for comfort and energy savings. Fall maintenance includes flushing the water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can improve efficiency and extend the lifespan of the unit.

  1. Protecting Outdoor Plumbing

Outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Draining and storing hoses, shutting off outdoor faucets, and winterizing sprinkler systems can prevent damage and ensure they are ready to use again in the spring.

  1. Maintaining Gutters and Downspouts

While not directly part of your plumbing system, gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can damage your foundation and basement. Cleaning and maintaining them in the fall ensures proper drainage and protects your home from water damage.

  1. Improving Indoor Air Quality

Plumbing maintenance can also impact your indoor air quality. Leaky pipes and standing water can lead to microbial growth, which can affect the air you breathe. Addressing these issues during fall maintenance helps maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Get the fall plumbing maintenance you need from Boelcke.

Fall plumbing maintenance is a proactive approach to safeguarding your home against the challenges of winter. By taking the time to inspect, repair, and prepare your plumbing system, you can prevent frozen pipes, avoid costly repairs, and ensure efficient water heating. Additionally, protecting outdoor plumbing and maintaining gutters can save you from potential water damage. As you enjoy the beauty of fall, make sure to prioritize these essential maintenance tasks to keep your home safe and comfortable all season long.

By following these tips, you can ensure your plumbing system is ready to handle the colder months ahead. If you need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Boelcke to help with your fall maintenance at (269) 429-9261.

Why You Should Maintain Your New HVAC System

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

air conditioning technician checks systemWhen you invest in a new heating and cooling system, it’s easy to assume that maintenance can be put off for a few years. After all, it’s brand new, right? However, regular maintenance performed by a qualified HVAC contractor is essential from the very beginning.

In this article, we’ll share with you some of the reasons why you should choose annual maintenance for your home comfort system – regardless of age – and how Boelcke can help you. Keep reading below to learn more!

7 Reasons You Should Get Annual Maintenance for Your HVAC System

Whether your heating and cooling system is new or has a few years under its belt, regular maintenance is important. Here are a few reasons why:

  1. Preserve Manufacturer Warranty

Most HVAC manufacturers require regular maintenance from a licensed professional to keep the warranty valid. Skipping these check-ups could void your warranty, leaving you responsible for any repairs that might be needed down the line.

  1. Optimize Efficiency and Performance

Even new systems can benefit from regular tune-ups. Maintenance ensures that all components are working at peak efficiency, which can save you money on energy bills. A well-maintained system uses less energy to heat and cool your home, reducing your carbon footprint and utility costs.

  1. Extend System Lifespan

Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your HVAC system. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements. Think of it like regular oil changes for your car – a little upkeep goes a long way.

  1. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. Regular maintenance includes changing filters and cleaning components, which helps to remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air4. This is especially important for households with pets, allergies, or family members with respiratory issues.

  1. Prevent Unexpected Breakdowns

There’s nothing worse than your HVAC system breaking down in the middle of a heatwave or a cold snap. Regular maintenance helps to catch potential issues early, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and ensuring your home stays comfortable year-round.

  1. Ensure Safety

HVAC systems, especially those that use gas, can pose safety risks if not properly maintained. Regular inspections can identify and fix issues like gas leaks or faulty wiring, keeping your home safe from potential hazards.

  1. Maintain Comfort Levels

A well-maintained HVAC system is better at regulating temperature and humidity levels in your home. This means more consistent comfort, no matter the season.

Even though your HVAC system is new, regular maintenance is a small investment that pays off in the long run. It ensures efficiency, extends the system’s lifespan, improves air quality, and keeps your home comfortable and safe.

Don’t wait for a problem to arise – schedule your HVAC maintenance today with Boelcke and enjoy peace of mind knowing your system is in top shape.

At Boelcke, we’re ready to help you get the maintenance you need for your heating and cooling system. We take pride in delivering the maintenance necessary to keep your system running smoothly. Just give us a call at (269) 429-9261 and we will be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Feeling Uncomfortable? You May Need AC Repair

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

Young woman trying to cool off in front of an electric fan at homeDuring the hot summer months, having a functional air conditioning system is crucial. You and your family rely on your AC system to keep you cool and comfortable, no matter how sweltering it might get outside. However, when your AC isn’t working properly, it can quickly become a pain point. But how do you know if you need air conditioning repair.

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can tell when your air conditioning system needs professional attention. In this article, we’ll explore the signs that indicate your air conditioning system needs repair and how Boelcke can assist you. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Signs Your Air Conditioning System Needs Repair

If you suspect your AC system isn’t working as well as it should, be on the lookout for the following signs:

  1. High Utility Bills: If your energy bills have spiked unexpectedly, your AC system might be malfunctioning.
  2. Inadequate Cooling: Are certain rooms still uncomfortably warm despite running your AC? Insufficient cooling could be a sign of trouble.
  3. Frequent Cycling: Does your AC turn on and off frequently? This cycling behavior may indicate an issue.
  4. Unusual Noises: Strange sounds—such as grinding, rattling, or squealing—coming from your AC unit warrant attention.
  5. Age of System: Older AC systems are more prone to breakdowns. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider professional inspection.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to contact the pros at Boelcke. Our skilled technicians can troubleshoot your system and make the repairs you need.

How Boelcke Can Help

Boelcke offers professional repair services for virtually all AC makes and models. Even if you didn’t purchase your system from us, we’re here to assist. Our services include:

  • Repair Services: Whether it’s a minor fix or a major overhaul, our skilled technicians can address any AC issue.
  • Professional AC Maintenance: Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs. Let us keep your system in top shape.
  • Air Conditioner Installation: If your AC system needs replacement, we provide seamless installation services.

Contact Boelcke for Professional AC Repair Services

At Boelcke, customer comfort is our priority. If your air conditioning system is struggling, don’t suffer through the heat. Give us a call at (269) 429-9261, and we’ll promptly schedule an appointment to get your air conditioning back on track.

Save Water This Summer with These Tips

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

hands holding globe of waterDry spells can be a common occurrence during the summer months, and that can mean water shortages can happen. Homeowners who use a public water supply may be asked to conserve water by their municipality, or those with a well may be concerned about their system running dry. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep the water flowing.

In this article, we’ll share some tips for conserving water during the summer months, and how Boelcke can help with any plumbing concerns you might have. Keep reading below to learn more!

7 Tips for Conserving Water in the Summer

There are several ways homeowners can conserve water during the summer months, including:

  1. Water Early or Late: Water your garden and lawn in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
  2. Check Toilet for Leaks: Perform the toilet test by adding food coloring to the tank; if it seeps into the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
  3. Shorten Showers: Cut down your shower time and turn off the water while soaping or shaving to save gallons.
  4. Use a Car Wash: Choose an automatic car wash that uses less water than hand washing.
  5. Dishwasher Over Hand Washing: Use a water-efficient dishwasher instead of hand washing dishes.
  6. Cover Your Pool: Reduce water loss from evaporation by covering your swimming pool when not in use. That way, you won’t have to add as much water to your pool.
  7. Collect Rainwater: Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater for watering plants and gardens.

Implementing these simple yet effective strategies can lead to significant water savings. Not only does it help the environment, but it can also reduce your water bill during those peak usage months.

Make sure your plumbing is running smoothly with Boelcke.

At Boelcke, we’re pleased to provide complete plumbing services to homeowners, including plumbing repair, installation, and inspection. If you suspect that you have a plumbing leak in your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, we can help take care of the problem quickly and get your toilets, sinks, and drains back in working order. Just give us a call at (269) 429-9261 and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Why Should I Get Air Conditioning Maintenance Each Year?

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

techs maintain ac systemAs the vibrant hues of spring give way to the golden warmth of summer, it’s crucial to ensure your air conditioning system is primed for the upcoming months. Many have already switched on their AC units this season, and as temperatures rise, the importance of optimal AC performance becomes clear. Regular maintenance is the key to a reliable and efficient system.

Some may question the necessity of annual AC maintenance, perceiving it as a bothersome expense. However, the advantages of a thorough check-up by a skilled HVAC technician are manifold. Let’s delve into these benefits and discover how Boelcke Heating and Air Conditioning can be your ally in this essential home care task.

Top 5 Advantages of Scheduling AC Maintenance This Season

Still contemplating AC maintenance? Here are compelling reasons to make that appointment:

  • Enhanced Energy Efficiency: A meticulously maintained AC unit runs with greater efficiency. Routine checks ensure cleanliness, proper functioning of all parts, and correct refrigerant levels, culminating in reduced energy consumption.
  • Elevated Home Comfort: Peak-performing AC systems not only conserve energy but also amplify your living space’s comfort. With regular upkeep, your AC won’t overexert itself to cool your home, providing you and your loved ones with a consistently pleasant environment.
  • Diminished Repair Costs: AC units, complex as they are, occasionally require minor fixes due to normal wear and tear. Neglected issues, however, can escalate into costly damages. Yearly maintenance serves as a preventive measure against such unwelcome surprises.
  • Superior Indoor Air Quality: A clogged AC filter can circulate contaminants throughout your home, degrading the air you breathe. Part of the maintenance ritual is to ensure your unit’s filter is devoid of pollutants, safeguarding your household’s air purity.
  • Warranty Preservation: Regular maintenance by certified professionals is often a stipulation for maintaining your HVAC warranty. Skipping this step could invalidate your warranty, leaving you financially responsible for any significant repairs or replacements.

Reach out to Boelcke Today for Your AC Upkeep

Your family’s comfort during the sweltering days of summer is paramount. At Boelcke, we’re committed to making your home a sanctuary from the heat. Offering comprehensive air conditioning services, we take pride in delivering the maintenance necessary to keep your system running smoothly. Just give us a call at (269) 429-9261 and we will be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Sniffles & Sneezes? Indoor Air Quality Products Can Help.

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

happy woman smiling and holding catOnce the spring season returns to Michigan, people can count on warmer, sunnier days and landscapes in bloom. For allergy sufferers, spring can also mean the return of allergies. Allergens like pollen and mold spores are abundant during the spring months, and unfortunately, this can wreak havoc for those with allergies and other respiratory concerns.

While you can’t control the outdoor air quality, there are measures you can take to improve the air quality inside your home. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the indoor air quality products available, and how Boelcke can help you get cleaner, fresher air for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

Different Types of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Products

Different types of IAQ products address specific concerns. Some homes may require only one solution, while others need a multi-pronged approach. Learn more about the different kinds of IAQ products below:

  • Air Sterilization: Air sterilization products help to remove mold, mildew, pollen, and bacteria from the air in your home, keeping the air you and your family breathe free from many of the contaminants that can cause respiratory concerns.
  • High-Efficiency Filters: Your HVAC system has a standard filter that can help keep your equipment cleaner and free from particulate matter, but it doesn’t necessarily provide the advanced filtration allergy sufferers need. High-efficiency filters are able to remove pollen, dust, dander, and other particles from the air in your home, helping you get the cleaner, fresher air you need.
  • UV Lights: Ultraviolet (UV) lights can effectively eliminate a whole host of pathogens in your HVAC system, including spores, mold, and bacteria, making them especially beneficial for anyone who suffers from respiratory conditions. They are installed by your technician directly in your heating and cooling system.
  • Humidifiers: When the air in your home is too dry, it can cause irritation to your eyes, nasal passages, and throat, and that can cause allergy symptoms to become even more uncomfortable. Overly dry air can benefit from the installation of a whole-home humidifier.
  • Dehumidifiers: Conversely, air that is too damp can also cause respiratory concerns for some and create an environment that encourages mold growth. In homes that are too damp and humid, a dehumidifier can help remove the excess moisture from the air.

A qualified HVAC professional will be able to help you get the right solution and combination of products for your home, helping you and your family enjoy cleaner, fresher air this spring – and all year through.

Can Boelcke help me get better IAQ for my home?

When you need indoor air quality solutions from a qualified specialist for your home, you can trust Boelcke Heating and Air Conditioning. We can help meet all your indoor air quality needs, large or small. Simply give us a call at (269) 429-9261, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Can a Power Outage Cause Damage to My Home?

Posted on by Boelcke Heating & AC

lights on in a home during a stormDuring the later summer months, the weather can turn stormy. Thunderstorms are more likely to roll through, bringing with them heavy rains and damaging winds. As a result, the chance of a power outage becomes higher. It’s likely that we’ve all experienced a few power outages in our lifetime, and while it can be fun for a while to play board games and chat by candlelight, a prolonged power outage can start to cause trouble.

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In this article, we’ll talk about some of the problems that can occur during an outage, measures you can take, and how Boelcke Heating, Air Conditioning, & Plumbing can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Areas of Your Home Where a Power Outage Can Cause Problems

Power outages can certainly cause inconveniences, such as no internet or no phone. However, there are certain areas in your home where power outages can actually cause some expensive damages, or can even be dangerous. Below, we’ll talk about some things you should be on the lookout for during an outage, and steps you can take to stay as safe as possible.

  • Sump Pumps: If your home relies on a sump pump to keep water out of your basement, it can’t operate during a power outage. And that can be the time when you need it most, as power outages are often accompanied by heavy rains or other wet weather. If your basement floods, it can be dangerous to enter. Never try to use any appliances, outlets, or fuse boxes until they’ve been evaluated by an electrician.
  • Appliances: In today’s world, many appliances operate via microprocessors, which are essentially tiny computers. Because of this, they are more sensitive to fluctuations in voltage and can be damaged during a power outage. As such, you’ll likely want to unplug any major appliances, such as washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers, until the power is restored.
  • Food Spoilage: When the power is out for a prolonged period of time, it can cause the food in your refrigerator or freezer to spoil – and that can be very costly. Usually, food is safe in the fridge for 24 hours, and in the freezer for 36 hours – as long as you keep the door closed. If you’re unsure of your food’s safety, you should not eat it.
  • Medical Equipment: Some people rely on medical equipment that requires electricity to operate. If someone in your household does, you’ll want to make sure you have a backup power supply, such as a generator. You may also want to identify safe places that may have access to backup power, such as your local school, fire department, or hospital, where you can take your family member in need during an emergency.
  • Heating and Cooling Equipment: Like your other major appliances, many of today’s air conditioning systems and furnaces also use microprocessors. And they have components that can be damaged by the power surges that often occur at the end of an outage. As such, it’s usually a good idea to turn off any heating or cooling equipment when the power goes out.

Can a brownout cause problems, too?

Brownouts are when electricity is still flowing into your home, but at a lower volume than usual. You may notice that any incandescent bulbs you have are still providing light but at a much lower level. Brownouts can wreak havoc with sensitive items like computers and laptops, so to be on the safe side, you should unplug them during a brownout, especially if you don’t have a backup generator. You’ll also want to turn off any non-essential home appliances.

Can Boelcke help prevent a power outage from causing problems in my home?

While we can’t prevent power outages from happening, we can help keep you and your home safer if one occurs. At Boelcke, we’re proud to offer our customers quality Honeywell generators, which can help you avoid problems should a power outage occur. When you choose us to install a home generator for you, we’ll help you choose the best one for your home and lifestyle needs. And, you can count on our expert technicians to provide you with professional installation. Simply give us a call at 269.429.9261, and we will be more than happy to assist you.