Why Humidity Matters in Winter Heating

Have you noticed drier skin this winter?

Does it feel like your furnace is kicking on more often to heat your home? 

If you spend lots of time adjusting thermostats and sealing drafts but don’t notice a difference, consider the often-overlooked factor of humidity as a comfort game-changer. 

Why Humidity Matters in Winter Heating

Winter air tends to be drier due to colder temperatures, made worse by the use of indoor heating systems like furnaces and wooden stoves. Dry winter air, when heated indoors, can lead to discomfort, dry skin, and respiratory issues.

The right humidity can create a sensation of warmth, allowing you to lower your thermostat settings without compromising comfort. This not only enhances energy efficiency but also presents an opportunity to cut down on heating costs.

Learn more about the advantages of humidity for indoor comfort in our latest article! 

Bryant Furnaces in Ann Arbor Provide Winter Comfort

Are you ready for winter comfort? 

Contact our team today to install a new Bryant furnace in Ann Arbor! Don’t let dry indoor air hold you back from enjoying Michigan year-round. 

“My furnace stopped working.  They showed up when they said they would and I was warm 2 hours later. Great service excellent prices.”

Sheryll Haas, Google Review

What to Do If Your Furnace Produces an Odd Smell

Is your furnace producing a new, foul odor? 

Making new or louder sounds than usual. 

Some things our appliances do can be written off, but if your furnace is making new sounds or smells, it may be time to call the professionals.

Monitor for Unusual Sounds or Odors

Pay attention to any unusual sounds, smells, or warning indicators on your heating system. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, turn off your system and contact your HVAC company immediately. A new odor can indicate a leak in your system, which can potentially be dangerous.

View our latest article to learn more about what to do if your heating system fails. 

Update Your Ann Arbor Home with a New Bryant Furnace 

Do you know how old your current heating system is? 

It may be time for a replacement! Contact our team today at (734)424-9555 to discuss if a new Bryant furnace is right for your Ann Arbor home. 

John Avery, Google Reviewer 

“We have used CMR on a couple of occasions over the last couple of years to repair our furnace and water heater.  In both instances, they were outstanding.  Even though it was an extremely busy time of year, they came out quickly and fixed both issues.  Very professional.  They were highly recommended to me.  I want to make sure I pass the recommendation on.  It is great to have good local resources.”

Checklist for When Your Heat Goes Out

Did your home’s heating system fail?

Don’t have a backup plan?

Here are a few things you can do if your heat goes out: 

• Check your thermostat
• Inspect your circuit breaker
• Check your fuel supply line if your heat source is gas
• Monitor unusual sounds or odors 

Contact Your Trusted HVAC Company 

If you've gone through the above steps and your heat is still out, it's time to call your reliable HVAC company for professional assistance. Our trained technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair heating system issues efficiently and safely. For our 24-hour service line, call 734.424.1560.

For a more detailed look at this checklist, view our latest article! 

Stay Warm with a New Bryant Furnace in Ann Arbor 

Is it time to update your home’s heating system? 

Consider installing a new Bryant furnace in your Ann Arbor home! Contact our team today at (734)424-1560 to learn more about which heating system is best for your home. 

 

Megan Hudson, Google Reviewer 

“Everyone at CMR is friendly and helpful. They’ve helped us when our furnace went out in the middle of the night, even FaceTiming with my husband to try and identify the problem quickly. Even when they’ve been fully booked, they find a way to get someone out to help you quickly. Their professionalism and genuine interest in helping you is unmatched. It’s not about selling something, which I appreciate. If you’re looking for a fantastic HVAC service that is also local, call CMR!”

Breaking down a Furnace Inspection

Getting an HVAC inspection in the fall is the best way to prepare your system for the winter. You won’t want to deal with replacing a malfunctioning furnace in the middle of January. A thorough check-up of your system can reveal issues that might need to be addressed. Specifically for furnaces, this inspection can include a number of things depending on the type of furnace you have:

For Gas Furnaces:                                                             

• Test carbon monoxide levels                          
• Pull and clean burners, adjust as needed
• Inspect heat exchanger
• Clean pilot assembly or flame sensor
• Test and adjust safety controls
• Inspect flu pipe and vent system
• Check draft and perform combustion analysis
• Check thermostat operation
• Lubricate all moving parts as needed
• Check operation of humidifier and replace pad if necessary (pad extra)

For Oil Furnaces:

• Test carbon monoxide levels
• Remove and replace nozzle, sharpen and set electrodes
• Clean heat exchanger with soot vacuum
• Test and adjust safety controls
•  Inspect flu pipe and vent system
• Check thermostat operation
• Check draft and perform combustion analysis
• Change standard fuel filter
•  Lubricate all moving parts if needed

Schedule a Check Up on Your HVAC System Today with the Experts at CMR Mechanical

If you haven't had your furnace inspected in a while, scheduling a tune up may be a good idea. Having equipment cleaned and maintained is important to help your system last as long as possible and work efficiently. CMR Mechanical’s trained technicians specialize in checking the health of residential heating and cooling systems and providing services to improve the system’s efficiency. Give us a call at (734) 424-9555 to schedule an inspection of your furnace in Ann Arbor.

How to Regulate Humidity in Your Home

Fall is coming to Southeast Michigan, and your HVAC system is hard at work adjusting to the changing temperatures. Before winter hits, it’s important to make sure your system is prepared. 

While air conditioners are keeping your home cool, they’re also removing moisture. When AC usage starts to go down in the fall, the relative humidity in your home will increase. 

This will affect different homes in different ways, so the best way to monitor your home’s humidity is to purchase a humidistat. These devices cost only a few dollars and can help you increase the efficiency of your home's HVAC system. Depending on what your humidity levels are at, you’ll be able to adjust your home’s temperature accordingly.

If your home’s relative humidity is constantly above 65% and lowering the temperature isn’t bringing the humidity level down, you might need to install either a variable speed air conditioning unit or an entire house dehumidifier. Both of these options, while more costly than adjusting your thermostat, will help combat your home’s humidity issues and make you more comfortable. 

Schedule a Check Up on Your HVAC System Today with the Experts at CMR Mechanical

If you haven't had your HVAC system or furnace inspected in a while, scheduling a tune up may be a good idea. Having equipment cleaned and maintained is important to help your system last as long as possible and work efficiently. CMR Mechanical’s trained technicians specialize in checking the health of residential heating and cooling systems and providing services to improve the system’s efficiency. Give us a call at (734) 424-9555 to schedule an inspection of your HVAC system and furnace in Ann Arbor.

Improve Indoor Air Quality in Your Local Ann Arbor School

CMR Mechanical is able to help local school districts that received ESSER funds to improve indoor air quality in classrooms. Local schools were given hundreds of thousands of dollars to use towards building upgrades, specifically, improvements to ventilation. 

What can CMR Mechanical do to improve your local Ann Arbor school’s indoor air quality? Find out here!

Get Started Today: Schedule Your Appointment

Call us today at 734-424-1560 to schedule an appointment. CMR Mechanical is committed to providing you excellent service. In fact, we put our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for equipment and all services in writing.

What can CMR Mechanical do to improve your Ann Arbor restaurant’s air quality?

There are several different ways your HVAC system can be repaired and improved to allow for better ventilation. Better ducts or fans can be incorporated into your existing system, or they can be part of a completely new system. What works best for you depends on your space, how the space is used, and the climate you live in. 

CMR Mechanical can help restaurants reach their goals of improving indoor air quality. We can make adjustments to existing heating and cooling equipment as well as install new indoor air quality solutions such as RGF air purification and Bryant OptiClean portable HEPA filters.

Contact CMR Mechanical today to schedule an evaluation of your indoor air quality for your Ann Arbor restaurant.

Get Started Today: Schedule Your Appointment

Call us today at 734-424-1560 to schedule an appointment. CMR Mechanical is committed to providing you excellent service. In fact, we put our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for equipment and all services in writing.

Stay Cozy This Holiday Season with Energy Efficiency!

Locate and fix air leaks. Home feel drafty? You probably have a few spots that could use some new caulk or weather stripping. 

Let the sun shine through! The sun provides warmth throughout the day helping you save money and energy. Find ways to let it shine in through your windows.

Have an old thermostat? For additional savings, replace your thermostat with a programmable one. This will allow you to set a schedule for your heating and cooling to improve the efficiency of your system.

Learn more!

Schedule Your Tune-Up Today!

At CMR Mechanical, we provide ongoing training for our service technicians. Our techs are factory trained and qualified on virtually all brands of heating and cooling equipment and indoor air quality. We’ll never try to sell you a system or upgrade that you don’t need. We’ll explain the problem if one exists, and help you understand how it should be repaired. Give us a call at 734-424-1560 today!

Save Money with the Right Thermostat!

According to the Department of Energy, “You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day. Although thermostats can be adjusted manually, programmable thermostats will avoid any discomfort by returning temperatures to normal before you wake or return home.”

Want to save money on your energy bills? Make sure you pick the right thermostat for your home. CMR Mechanical can help!

Need Furnace Repair or Programmable Thermostat in Ann Arbor? CMR Has You Covered. 

Save money and time by scheduling a comprehensive furnace repair or thermostat today with a furnace expert in Ann Arbor. Still need more convincing? Give us a call today to discuss your heating and cooling needs or for more questions about a furnace repair in your Ann Arbor home.

Let CMR Mechanical help you find the right energy efficient HVAC!

Upgrading your HVAC system to improve efficiency?

What should you look for when buying a new furnace for your home?

Do you know which questions you should be asking a professional to prepare for installation and choosing a system?

Here’s a few questions to get you started:

1. Is the consultation free? What about the estimate?
2. What are my best options?
3. What size do I need?
4. Do I need multiple heating and cooling zones?
5. Do I need a humidifier?
6. Are there any special rebates or special offers I can claim?
7. Do I qualify for any tax credits?
8. How efficient will my new system be?
9. What filter types are offered?
10. Does the HVAC company have a service plan to maintain and protect my system?

Learn more here!

Let CMR Mechanical help you find the right energy efficient HVAC!

Armed with our questions about efficient HVACs, you’re ready to shop. Get started today with a call to CMR Mechanical. With years of experience repairing and installing new furnaces in Ann Arbor homes, our experts are ready to improve the efficiency of your home. Give us a call today. 

Buying a New Furnace? It's Important to Make an Informed Decision.

Are you thinking about replacing an old furnace in your Ann Arbor home?

What should you look for when buying a new furnace?

Do you know which questions you should be asking a professional to prepare for installation and choosing a system?

When you’re considering having your furnace replaced, it’s important to educate yourself on all available choices and make an informed decision on what is best for you. 

Learn more here!

Trust CMR Mechanical for Your Furnace Needs in Ann Arbor

If you want to know more about what you can do to make your Ann Arbor home cozy all winter long, give CMR Mechanical a call today. With years of experience repairing and installing new furnaces in Ann Arbor homes, you can trust us to deliver quality service every time.

Is It Time For A New Furnace In Your Ann Arbor Home?

Do you have a gas furnace that isn’t pumping out heat?

Is your geothermal system struggling to keep you comfortable?

Are you hooked up to a propane or fuel oil furnace?

At CMR Mechanical we offer a full range of heating and cooling options for your year-round comfort. One of our technicians will come over and help you chose which type of furnace will get you the best results for your budget. Click Here to learn more about getting a new furnace in your Ann Arbor home.

These Three Steps Can Save the Time it Would Take for a Service Contractor to Come to Your Home

Is your furnace not turning on?

Are you getting only a trickle of heat?

Just because your furnace is acting up – it doesn’t always mean you’re in for emergency repairs or an expensive replacement. 

Have you double checked your thermostat?

When was the last time you changed the filter?

Did you look at your circuit breaker? 

These three steps can save the time it would take for a service contractor to come out to your home. However, if these steps don’t get your furnace cooking again – give us a call at 734-424-1460 any time day or night. You can always count on our prompt and professional technicians for all of your furnace repair needs!

Does your furnace actually need a repair?

When it’s cold out and your home isn’t warm and cozy, it’s easy to think the worst has happened and you need a new furnace. That’s not always the case. 

At CMR Mechanical we’re a licensed family-owned business with years of experience providing expert furnace repair to Ann Arbor, Dexter, and Chelsea area residents. If your furnace isn’t functioning, pumping out cold air, or just plain not working, there are some easy steps you can take to possibly solve the problem without calling a technician!

Read more on how to check your furnace for repairs!  

4 Questions to Ask When You Want a More Efficient HVAC

Upgrading your HVAC system to improve efficiency? Want to make sure you’re asking the right questions to maximize your investment in a more efficient system for cooling and heating your Ann Arbor home? Need help making the right choice for an energy efficient HVAC?

1. Rebates and Credits: more efficient systems cost more money, but you may be able to cut your expense. Ask your estimator or contractor about deals, credits, or rebates they know about and ask them to look into more options for you. If you can save a significant amount of money on your system, you might be able to afford an even more efficient unit!

2. System Size: ask that your contractor is getting an accurate assessment of the system size your space needs. Don’t buy a system based on the size of your current HVAC or a rough estimate. If your HVAC is too small or too large, it won’t run efficiently, no matter how hi-tech or expensive it is. 

3. Thermostats: the right thermostat will help your system run more efficiently by strategically adjusting the temperature or shutting down. Smart thermostats are a good investment for efficiency, but make sure to ask your contractor about their recommendations and what’s compatible with your new system. 

4. Filters: this simple component plays a big role in your system’s ability to operate efficiently. Ask about your options for filters with your new HVAC and recommendations for changing and cleaning. If you need a specific kind of filter for allergies or asthma, ask your contractor about compatibility or alternatives. 

Let CMR Mechanical help you find the right energy efficient HVAC!

Armed with our questions about efficient HVACs, you’re ready to shop. Get started today with a call to CMR Mechanical. With years of experience cooling and heating Ann Arbor homes, our experts are ready to improve the efficiency of your home. Give us a call today. 

5 Questions You Need to Ask to Save Money on Your New HVAC

Looking to save money on your new HVAC system? Need ideas to stay on budget with your new system for cooling and heating your Ann Arbor home? Know what questions to ask your contractor to make sure you’re saving money with your HVAC purchase?

If you need a new HVAC system, you know you’ll be making a sizeable investment. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make and stick to a budget. In fact, when you’re shopping and getting estimates, if you ask your contractor a few key questions, it could help you save a lot of money. Check out our suggestions for questions to ask to save money on your new system. 

1. Financing: when you get more time to pay, you can invest in a more efficient system than if you pay upfront. But the savings really kick in when you can take advantage of interest free financing. If you finance through a contractor or manufacturer, you can usually get a nice interest-free window, which saves you a lot compared to a bank loan.

2. Rebates: if you’re interested in serious energy efficiency, ask about rebates and tax credits. Rebates, coupons, and other deals may also be available for models that aren’t setting records for energy efficiency. 

3. Estimate: before you get an estimate for your system, make sure it’s going to be totally free. Getting a guarantee of a free estimate early on assures that a charge won’t surprise you on your final total. 

4. Warranty: a solid warranty saves you money in a few ways. If you like having the protection, you won’t have to spend money separately for a protection plan. And with the warranty, if something goes wrong, your costs will be totally or partially covered. 

5. Maintenance: regular maintenance on your system will save you money by helping avoid more costly repairs and extending the life of your HVAC. Ask about maintenance programs your contractor offers and if they have any deals or promotions for enrolling. 

Trust your investment in a new HVAC system to CMR Mechanical. 

Now that you’re prepared to save money on a new system for cooling and heating your Ann Arbor home, give the experts at CMR Mechanical a call. We’re ready to help you find the system that fits your space and budget perfectly. And remember, with us, your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Give us a call today. 

Tips for Better, Cozier Sleep This Winter!

Struggling with your sleep this winter and not sure what’s to blame? Sacrificing cozy slumber for a lower electric bill? Need tips for a cozier night without breaking the bank?

You may know that keeping your room cool is a good trick for restful sleep and helps save money on your electric bill! But taking a good thing too far can leave you uncomfortable, and make it difficult to fall or stay asleep. If you’ve gotten used to the savings, but are missing your restful sleep, check out our tips for better, cozier sleep this winter.  

• Sleep with socks: the temperature of your feet can be tough for your body to regulate and cold feet won’t help anyone get to sleep. 

• Hot water bottle: this is definitely an old-fashioned hack, but it works! Fill a hot-water bottle and place it at the foot of the bed, under the covers. You’ll be warmer without having to touch the thermostat. 

• Use insulated drapes: with insulated drapes, keep the heat in the house instead of letting it go out the window. If you put them up in your room, you’ll notice a difference in temperature right away. 

• Clean ducts: a good duct cleaning will help your furnace run more efficiently. More comfortable temperatures, lower bill, and better air quality are some of the benefits you can look forward to!

• Furnace inspection: if your furnace is older that 12-15 years and seems to be giving you a little trouble, an inspection could help spot and deal with a problem, and maybe even extend the life of your appliance!

These tips should help you feel cozy and sleep well at night without seeing a sky-high price reflected in your electric bill. If you have more questions about saving money or servicing the furnace in your Ann Arbor home this winter, give us a call today. 

How to Light a Gas Furnace Pilot

Are you having problems with lighting your gas furnace pilot light?

Is your furnace on the fritz?

Are you unsure how to light your pilot light safely?

According to How Stuff Works, “To relight the pilot, follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly; they are usually fastened to the furnace. If instructions for relighting the pilot are not provided, follow this general procedure:

Step 1: Find pilot light assembly. It typically has a gas valve with on, off, and pilot settings.

Step 2: Turn valve to “off” and wait three minutes.

Step 3: Switch valve to pilot setting. Hold lighted match to pilot opening while you push reset button on pilot control panel. Keep this button pressed until pilot flame burns brightly, then set valve to “on” position.

Step 4: If pilot flame won't stay lit, the opening may be clogged. Turn gas valve “off”, and clean opening with piece of fine wire. If it won't stay lit after several attempts, you may have faulty thermocouple.”

If you’re still having problems lighting your pilot light, call a professional to help. All our technicians are highly trained professionals who continue their education through ongoing training, so they stay up to date to assure you the best service available. CMR Mechanical prides itself on honest, quality service!

CMR Mechanical – Your Heating and Cooling Experts in Ann Arbor

If you'd like to add value to your home by installing a new HVAC system, we’re your guys! We offer a free in-home evaluation of your existing system for heating and cooling your Ann Arbor home. We service and repair residential, commercial and industrial equipment; while specializing in all types of heating and cooling in Ann Arbor, furnaces, radiant floor heat, refrigeration, water heaters, boilers, and back-up power generators, as well as many other products and services.

Contact us at info@cmrmechanical.com or call (734) 424-9555. We pride ourselves on honest, quality service!

The Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

What do you really know about carbon monoxide? Do you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home?

It may not be something you frequently hear about, but according to the Center for Disease Control, carbon monoxide poisoning sends about 15,000 people to the hospital each year. And the effects are serious, possibly leading to long term brain damage or worse.

So how do you protect yourself and your family from carbon monoxide?

Because it’s a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas, your best bet is to use a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Place the detectors near bedrooms and on every floor of the house.

What is the source of carbon monoxide?

The gas is emitted by unburned fuel and could come from many places in your home like the fireplace, clothes dryer, water-heater, oven, range, or a running car. Because possible sources of carbon monoxide are common appliances found in most homes, it is truly important to have a detector for your safety and your family’s.

What else can you do about carbon monoxide?

 
To complement your new detectors, consider calling an expert for yearly maintenance checks on the appliances which pose a risk of carbon monoxide emission. For an examination of the units heating your Ann Arbor home, like your furnace and water heater, contact us today and keep your family safe.