Central AC vs. Ductless Mini Splits

Person in gray sweater contemplating HVAC options next to Bosch wall-mounted and Carrier outdoor air conditioning units.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Option for Cooling Your Home

When it’s time for an air conditioning installation or replacement, homeowners will have to make a decision regarding which type of air conditioner to install. This post will explore their air conditioner options for cooling their homes, including central air conditioning and ductless cooling. 

Central Air Conditioning

vent A central AC system is the most common form of air conditioning in U.S. homes. These systems use ductwork to distribute the cooled air around the home, making it preferable for cooling larger homes. They are more affordable to install, especially when replacing an existing central air system with ducts.

Central air conditioning systems are also beneficial because they are less visible indoors compared to other types of air conditioners, with only the air vents being visible inside a house’s rooms. The main drawback to central air is that they are not the most efficient option available. 

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems 

mini splitDuctless air conditioning is another option for cooling homes. Ductless mini splits don’t require air ducts. Instead, they use multiple indoor units to supply the space with cool air. Each of these indoor units can be individually controlled, allowing for more precise temperature control and the ability to save energy in unused rooms. 

These systems are more energy efficient, so although they have a higher initial installation cost than central AC systems, they will cost less to run. Because of their lack of ductwork, ductless mini-split systems are great options for adding air conditioning to older homes without ducts or homes without the space for ductwork to be installed.  

Other Cooling Options

Central air conditioning and ductless mini splits aren’t the only options for air conditioners. However, other options like window air conditioners and portable air conditioners aren’t good options for cooling entire homes. Window AC units and portable AC units are affordable, but only cool the room they are in, so when multiple units have to be purchased to cool a home, this cost adds up quickly and eliminates the benefit of being affordable. 

Portable air conditioners can be moved from room to room, but sit on the floor, taking up valuable floor space and can make a room feel more cluttered. A window unit doesn’t take up floor space, but when installed in a window, the window can’t be opened, and it blocks natural light. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical has been serving the Lansing area since 1984. They provide fast response, highly trained technicians, and high-quality solutions. Call them for air conditioner installation and replacement in Lansing, MI

Installing a Standby Generator Can Benefit the Household

Why Get a Standby Generator Installation? 

In modern society, access to reliable power is a necessity. Lighting, appliances, and devices are all in constant use, and a loss of power can be a major inconvenience. When situations or storms knock out power, standby generators can restore power to the home. 

Standby generators are whole home generators that supply power when it goes out. Here is a quick guide to standby generators, including how they work, when they are needed, and their advantages.  

How Do Standby Generators Work?

generatorOnce installed, a whole-house generator turns on and operates automatically when the power goes out, eliminating the need for manual intervention during a power outage. Equipped with sophisticated sensors and switches, it detects power loss and immediately springs into action within seconds. 

The generator's engine starts, and power is restored to the home, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply to essential appliances, lights, and other things in the home requiring electricity. This seamless transition provides peace of mind and convenience, allowing homeowners to weather power outages without disruption.

When Are Generators Needed?

outageMany situations can cause homes to lose power, including: 

  • Planned outages
  • Storms with high winds
  • Lightning
  • Excessive heat
  • Construction projects
  • Unusually high power demand
  • Vehicle collision with a utility pole 
  • Trees fall on utility poles

With a professionally installed standby generator, homes don’t have to worry about losing power during these instances, as it will supply electricity to the home until the power comes back. 

Benefits of Installing a Whole-Home Generator 

People rely on electricity for so much in their homes, so having a standby generator is extremely beneficial for convenience and safety. Some of the advantages of a whole-home generator installation are: 

  • Emergency Power: Generators can provide electricity for the whole home during an outage. 
  • Powers Medical Equipment: Standby generators ensure that any medical equipment that is powered by electricity can be used during an outage to keep people safe and healthy. 
  • Access to Refrigeration: Generators provide electricity to power the refrigerator and freezer during outages to prevent food from spoiling and being wasted.  
  • Climate Control: During periods of no power, families will be stuck in the hot or cold without heating or air conditioning. However, generators can power heaters and air conditioners to keep homes safe and comfortable. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving the Lansing area. They offer fast response, the best brands, and superior customer service. Call them for electrical services in Lansing, MI. 

How to Lower Your Monthly Water Bills

Pink piggy bank with coin slot and stack of money, illustrating financial savings for home maintenance and energy tips.

Make High Water Bills a Thing of the Past

Household water consumption isn’t something that can be completely cut from the budget to save money since water use is essential. However, several things can be done to reduce water use from a home's plumbing and save on water costs without sacrificing comfort. This blog post will share easy water-saving tips that can benefit a homeowner’s wallet. 

Adopt Smart Water Saving Habits

save water One easy way to lower water consumption and costs is to tweak daily habits connected to water use. Simple adjustments like turning off the tap while brushing teeth, shaving, and other water-related tasks can add up to significant water savings. Additionally, washing dishes in a dishwasher when it’s full can save water compared to hand washing the dishes. 

There are also ways to save water outside. Scheduling lawn care activities such as watering the yard and outdoor plants in the early morning can help conserve water since less water can be used compared to the afternoon when water evaporates quicker, and more water is needed to keep grass and plants healthy. Homeowners can install an irrigation controller to ensure the sprinkler system turns on at the right time and turns off automatically to prevent overwatering. Also, skip watering when it rains to avoid water waste.

Install Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures

When it comes to water conservation, there are also ways to save water and reduce water bills without changing how water is used in a household. Many plumbing fixtures are available with water conservation in mind that will save water without having to change how people use them. Some plumbing fixtures that can be upgraded to water-saving models include the following:

  • Showerheads: Many types and styles of low-flow showerheads are available that use less water per minute without having to sacrifice good water pressure or comfort. 
  • Faucets: Similar to water-saving showerheads, there are also many options for faucets that use less water and reduce water costs without compromising performance.
  • Toilets: Many types of water-saving toilets are available that use less water per flush, such as gravity-assist toilets, pressure-assisted toilets, dual-flush toilets, and more.

Prompt Leak Repair Is a Must

leak While tweaking water consumption habits and investing in water-efficient plumbing fixtures both significantly help save water and money, another way to prevent high water bills is by identifying and fixing leaks as soon as possible. Allowing water leaks to persist will work against a household’s water conservation efforts, wasting water and causing water bills to rise, which is why homeowners need to notice signs of a leak and call plumbers for leak detection and repair as soon as they can.

Some common signs of a leak may include hearing the sound of water running even though all fixtures are turned off, reduced water pressure, wet areas or water stains in the home, mold growth, and an unusually high water bill. These signs shouldn’t be ignored, and homeowners should call a plumber to pinpoint the exact location of the leak or leaks and fix it. Doing so will help keep monthly water bills lower and save money.

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a family-owned business serving East Lansing and the surrounding areas. They provide superior customer service, the best brands, and fast response. Call them for plumbing services in East Lansing, MI

Learn About Signs That a Heater Needs to Be Repaired

Gloved hand with a wrench on electrical components during mechanical assembly for home services by The Meridian Company.

What Should Homeowners Look out for to Determine if Their Heaters Need Repair?

A malfunctioning heater, especially in the winter, can be a significant problem for homeowners. A professional will need to be contacted to fix the issue, but homeowners need to be able to identify their heating systems are having trouble. Here are some typical signs that can alert homeowners that heater repair may be needed.  

Unusually High Utility Bills 

bills When homeowners notice a higher-than-normal utility bill without an increase in the household’s energy or fuel consumption, it may indicate an issue with the heating system. Heaters can lose energy efficiency for several reasons, causing an increase in costs. 

Some possible causes of inefficiency could be a problem with the heating system needing repair, neglected maintenance, or the heater losing efficiency as it ages. So, if this sign is noticed, a technician should be called to inspect the system, determine the cause of lost efficiency, and perform the necessary solution, whether that’s repair, maintenance, or replacement.  

Don’t Ignore Unusual Smells or Sounds

bad smell If a homeowner notices a burning smell or other unusual smells when the heater is running, there could be a problem with the system, such as an overheating furnace. If it is not repaired quickly, the heater may cease to work, or it could lead to more dangerous issues. 

Unusual sounds like squeaking, rattling, knocking, or grinding should also be addressed quickly, as they can indicate a problem with the heater that needs to be fixed. When ignored, the heating system may fail, so a professional should be called in as soon as possible to prevent a system breakdown. 

Insufficient Heating in Homes 

If the heater fails to heat the home to the temperature on the thermostat or there is weak airflow or uneven heating, it’s another sign the heating system is not working properly. There could be a malfunctioning part requiring repair or maintenance issues that are affecting airflow. 

Besides a total lack of heating, there could also be cold spots in the home or rooms that do not get warm enough, causing uneven heating throughout the home. A professional should be called to inspect the system and identify the issue to determine the best solution to restore warmth and comfort to the home. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving East Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide fast response, superior customer service, and tailored solutions. Call them today for heating repair in East Lansing, MI

Electrical Safety Inspections Make for a Better New Year

Why Homeowners Should Get Electrical Safety Checks?

Electricity is a necessity for daily life. However, it can be just as dangerous as it is helpful. This danger is one of the main reasons to get a home’s wiring, outlets, and the rest of the electrical system evaluated regularly. Continue reading for an explanation of the importance of electrical safety inspections, when they are needed, and what they entail.

What Does an Electrician Do During an Electrical Inspection?

A homeowner must get their electrical safety inspection done by a qualified professional who is up-to-date on the electrical codes and regulations. When an electrician does a safety inspection, they will examine all parts of the electrical system, including the wiring, outlets, light switches, and electrical panel, to ensure everything works correctly and safely. If there is a problem, they can repair it to keep the household safe and protected from electrical hazards like fires. Some of the things that they do specifically include checking:

  • Electrical boxes and breaker panels
  • GFCI and AFCI outlets
  • Circuits
  • Wire connections and cables 
  • Light switches 

What Necessitates an Electrical Safety Inspection?

homeA homeowner should get their home electrical setup inspected every three to five years in a newer home. A home that is over 25 years old should be checked more often, every two to three years. Older homes have a greater likelihood of electrical problems, necessitating a more frequent electrical safety check. However, there are more instances where a safety inspection is needed, such as when:

  • Renovating or remodeling
  • Building a home addition
  • Selling the home
  • Buying a new home
  • The electricity bill has gone up unexpectedly
  • Lights are flickering
  • Noticing burning smells
  • Noticing other signs of electrical problems

What Are the Benefits of Electrical Safety Checks?

save money Getting an electrical safety inspection done on a property has several benefits. One of the main benefits is increased safety. Faulty wiring, old electrical panels, and other issues can pose a serious risk of fire or electrocution. Identifying and fixing these issues through an inspection can prevent potential hazards and keep the home and loved ones safe.

Additionally, an electrical safety check also helps to improve energy efficiency. During the inspection, any outdated or inefficient electrical components can be identified and replaced, leading to lower energy bills. This is because faulty wiring or outdated appliances can consume more electricity, resulting in higher electric bills. Doing an electrical safety inspection can save money on electric bills in the long run.

Regular electrical safety checks also help to prolong the lifespan of electrical systems. With proper inspection and timely repairs, homeowners can help avoid the need for costly replacements in the future. This saves money and ensures that electrical systems are functioning efficiently. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned company serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They offer fast response, highly trained technicians, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical services in Lansing, MI.