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Important Things to Consider Before Buying a New Furnace

Your furnace is an indispensable piece of equipment in your home, especially during cold weather. Without it, your family will be left in the cold and at a risk of developing diseases brought about by extremely low temperatures. There are days and nights when your unit has to work 24/7 to keep your home toasty. However, this puts a lot of stress on the furnace and if your system has been serving you for 15 years or more, it may not be as energy-efficient as it once was.

If you are looking for a new furnace for your home, there are a few things you need to consider before making that purchase. Choosing the right heating system can sometimes be an overwhelming task for a homeowner and calling a professional is necessary for making an informed decision. Remember to do business only with a licensed heating company in Champaign, IL to ensure you get the best solution.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when buying a new furnace.

Energy Efficiency

Your furnace is one of the major energy-consuming appliances in your home. It's important to determine the energy-efficiency of a furnace to give you an idea of how much fuel it needs to heat your home.

A furnace's ability to convert gas into heat is measured by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. It shows the percentage of the fuel consumed that is actually used for generating heat. To put it simply, the higher the AFUE rating, the greater the savings.

A furnace with an AFUE of 85 percent converts 85 percent of the fuel into heat while the other 15 percent goes out the chimney or elsewhere.

Proper Sizing

Buying the largest or the most expensive furnace doesn't really guarantee ultimate comfort. When it comes to furnaces, bigger isn't always better and smaller doesn't always mean it's cost-effective.

When a furnace is oversized, it heats up the home quickly but uses a lot of fuel. A bulky furnace is prone to short cycling, which means the unit will shut itself off before the thermostat even makes the right temperature readings. Too much short cycling isn't healthy for the furnace as it causes the unit to break prematurely.

On the other hand, when a furnace is undersized, it is incapable of properly heating your home, which causes it to run longer in an attempt to reach your desired temperature. Not only does it consume more fuel, it also forces your furnace to work harder. Similar to an oversized furnace, a unit that is too small is bound to fail earlier than it should - prompting you to replace it much sooner than if you installed a correctly sized system.

Safety Features

When it comes to home comfort, energy-efficiency is not the only thing that matters; you should also consider the safety features of your furnace, which can protect your home. High-efficiency furnaces that have a minimum of 90 percent AFUE use outside air for combustion. Not only does this prevent your home from catching fire, it also keeps your furnace from being damaged caused by vapors from household cleaning products.

High-efficiency furnaces use an electronic ignition system that is proven to be more reliable and safer than old furnaces that utilize standing pilot light. This ignition system only uses heat when the furnace calls for heat. These furnaces are also designed to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Smart Thermostat Compatibility

When buying a new furnace, consider a unit that is compatible with smart thermostats, which have the ability to learn your daily schedule and preferences, making it easier to conserve energy by allowing the thermostat to control your home's temperatures.

These devices also remind you of your maintenance schedule and have the ability to monitor your fuel consumption. In addition, smart thermostats can also detect a dirty filter and will let you know when it needs cleaning or replacing.

Call the Heating Experts

These are just some of the key points you need to consider when buying a new furnace. Our HVAC experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning can help you make a wise decision by employing scientific and practical ways in choosing the right system for your home.

We are the trusted Champaign furnace installation company that is dedicated to providing you with the best heating and cooling solutions for your home.

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Lennox ELO183 Oil Furnace

The average lifespan of a home gas furnace is between 15 to 20 years. If your unit is around this age or more, it's time to consider getting a replacement for a number of reasons.

First, it is quite normal for a furnace to create some noise when it starts or shuts down, but if those noises begin to be extremely louder, it may be time to shop for a new unit. These sounds are signs that there are certain parts of the furnace needing replacement. The problem is that as furnaces get older, finding replacement parts gets challenging.

Second, an older furnace is bound to work harder to keep your house warm. This translates to higher energy bills and more frequent repairs. If you notice a significant increase in heating and repair costs, this tells you that your existing unit is about to retire and would require a replacement.

Another issue associated with old furnaces is inconsistent heating throughout the home. If you have an older furnace, you may be suffering from uneven heat distribution - some rooms are warmer than the others.

If you observe any of these noticeable signs, you may have reached a point where getting a new furnace would make more sense than trying to keep your old, inefficient unit.

For professional help, call your preferred heating company in Champaign, IL that offers a variety of furnace choices.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the best contractors in the Central Illinois area.

Overview

The ELO183 oil furnace is one of the models in Lennox's Elite Series.

Every component of the ELO183 has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

The ELO183 residential oil furnace delivers clean, quiet and comfortable home heating. Stay warm for less with this efficient furnace that is designed to deliver lasting value and energy savings, which important, especially during the coldest months of winter.

Its high-quality components efficiently deliver heat to every room, with little maintenance required.

Features

Energy Efficiency

Compared to conventional, low to mid-efficiency furnaces, the ELO183 can help you save a considerable amount each year, thanks to its efficiency rating of up to 83 percent AFUE. An AFUE of 80% means 80 cents of every dollar spent on gas goes directly toward heating your home. That can mean potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year when compared to an older furnace.

The ELO183 has a heavy-gauge stainless steel heat exchanger that has a durable and solid design that captures waste heat, allowing the furnace to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. It allows air to glide evenly over its smooth surface for maximum heating efficiency.

Lennox backs this furnace with a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and a Lifetime Limited Warranty on the heat exchanger.

Performance

Its heavy-duty fuel pump provides quiet, reliable operation with fast shutoff of oil flow.

Its innovative combustion chamber is constructed from alumina-silica ceramic fiber, provides quiet operation and high efficiency.

The ELO183 is built with a Beckett® burner. This means extremely efficient combustion for greater fuel economy throughout the heating season. It also means the burner is unaffected by drafts or poor chimney conditions.

Quiet Operation

The ELO183 has a fully insulated cabinet with patented noise-reducing construction that further minimizes operating sound to an industry-leading low level.

Its insulated blower compartment minimizes operating sounds.

Why Trust Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

Finding the right furnace can be an overwhelming task. As a matter of fact, most homeowners find it rather difficult to select the proper unit for their homes. There are certain factors to consider when deciding which furnace is best for your needs, one of which is proper sizing.

A furnace that is too small lacks the power to properly heat your home, so it will need to run longer to raise the temperature to the point of being overloaded. This causes the unit to fail and increase your utility bills. This will also create premature wear and tear as a small furnace struggles to keep up with your home's heating needs.

On the other hand, a furnace that is too large for your home is prone to short cycling, which means the unit will shut down before the thermostat makes the right temperature readings.

To help you in making a wise choice, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We are a reputable Champaign furnace installation company serving Central Illinois since 1983.

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Tips on How to Save on Your Heating Bills

Winter is when your furnace usually works overtime, if not the whole day to keep everyone in your home comfortable and safe. However, comfort during the heating season is typically associated with high utility bills.

Keeping your furnace in tip-top shape will ensure it works at peak performance. In addition, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption and save money, which you can use for other needs.

Call a trusted heating company in Bloomington, IL like Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning to fine tune your heating system to keep operational costs down.

Here's a list of practical tips on how to lower your heating bills.

Put on Warm Clothes

You don't have to make your furnace work too hard just to keep you comfortably warm. You can set your thermostat at a lower temperature by putting on layers of thick clothes that help keep you warm. According to a study, you can save 5 percent on your heating costs for every degree you drop your thermostat in the 60-degree to 70-degree range, which recommends a maximum setting of 68 degrees during the day. Putting on warm clothes is the easiest thing you can do to save money on heating.

Use Ceiling Fans

Making a few tweaks in your living space like using ceiling fans can help lower your heating bills. Since hot air naturally rises, you can set the fan on the lowest speed, that way it isn't fast enough to produce a wind chill effect, but it's fast enough to push down the warm air that is accumulated near the ceiling.

Make Use of Personal Heaters

Running the furnace in your entire house can be absolutely expensive. You can try using electric heating pads and slippers, which use just a small amount of electricity but you will feel much warmer, allowing you to lower your thermostat setting and spend less on heating your entire home.

Manage Your Windows

Your windows typically account for about 10 to 25 percent of your home's heat loss. To address this issue, open curtains and shades on south-facing windows during the day when the sun is up to allow the sun's heat to enter your home and warm it up. In the evening, keep the blinds and curtains closed to insulate your house and keep the warmth inside. You can also cover bare windows and drapes with thick blankets, especially at night when windows are not in use and the temperature is at its coldest.

Set Your Water Heater to a Lower Temperature

During winter, most homeowners use their water heaters the entire day. These appliances usually add about 14 to 25 percent to your heating costs, based on a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Most water heaters have a factory setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the Department of Energy recommends you can lower it down to 120 degrees and still get a comfortable water temperature. This 10-degree drop on your water heater's setting can save at least 3 percent to 5 percent on your water heating costs.

Enhance Your Home's Insulation

Insulation works as a barrier to heat loss, particularly in roofs and ceilings, walls and floors. With energy costs as high as they are, this could cost you hundreds of dollars per year and put an unnecessary burden on your furnace.

In many homes, insulation is the most practical and cost-effective way to make a house more energy efficient. Using particular kinds of insulation can also qualify you for federal tax credits that can save you money when tax time rolls around. It can also reduce condensation in the home, which can provide health benefits by lowering the risk of developing mold.

Clean Your Furnace Filters

Clogged filters block the airflow, which results in higher energy consumption.

A dirty furnace can easily overheat, as it needs to work harder to provide your heating requirements. Clean or replace your filters regularly to avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt within your heating system.

Need Help? Ask the Heating Pros

In addition to these steps, the single most effective way to reduce your heating costs is to have your furnace regularly serviced by a qualified technician. Annual maintenance allows your heating professional to detect issues before they even become problems, potentially saving you hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

If you are in search for a reputable Bloomington furnace repair company, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We have been serving homeowners throughout the Central Illinois area for over 30 years.

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Why Furnace Annual Maintenance Matters

Having a furnace in your home is an essential convenience needed to protect your family from the effects of exposure to extremely cold weather. Just like how you take care of your car, your heating system also needs special care and attention to ensure it serves you as long as it should.

Annual maintenance is an important step in keeping your furnace work at peak performance, giving you great comfort and excellent energy efficiency.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a trusted heating company in Urbana, IL that has the knowledge, experience, and skills to properly maintain any furnace make and model.

Here are a few important reasons why you should consider having your furnace inspected by a professional regularly.

Get Lower Energy Costs

A furnace that runs smoothly uses less energy, thus, costs less to operate. Provided that your home is properly insulated and no heated air escapes during the winter, a well-maintained heating system will do its job effortlessly.

Avoid Stressful Emergencies

Annual maintenance allows your technician to detect issues on your furnace before they even become serious problems. If your furnace breaks down in the middle of the winter, it will need to be fixed right away, and most likely at a premium rate.

Keep Your Indoor Air Clean

Your furnace doesn't only provide your home with heat, it also plays a significant part in the quality of the air you breathe. A furnace that doesn't undergo regular maintenance can release carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas. Exposure to this gas has negative effects on your health that include dull headaches, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision and loss of consciousness.

Regular replacement of filters, cleaning of ducts, and coils will ensure your furnace traps dirt, dust, and debris. This is particularly important if you have children, people aged 60 or more, or family members who have pre-existing respiratory issues.

Avoid Costly Repairs

In order for your furnace to operate efficiently, it needs proper airflow. Not only does your filter keep your air clean, it also blocks dust, dirt, and debris from entering the internal parts of your furnace. When airflow is compromised, it causes your fan motor to overwork, which uses more energy. This causes damage to the system and increases your utility bills in the process.

Dust, dirt, and debris buildup can cause your unit to experience multiple issues such as frozen evaporator coils and diminished heating, which shortens your unit's life expectancy.

Your filter needs to be replaced regularly especially if you have pets, smokers, or if you keep household cleaning items.

Extend Your Furnace's Lifespan

Annual maintenance not only saves you money on utilities and repairs, it also helps prolong your furnace's lifespan. A professional furnace maintenance service includes cleaning of ducts and coils, replacement of filters, which ensures the unit will run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. To put it simply, the less force the furnace releases, the longer it will last.

Keep Your Unit Under Warranty

Furnace manufacturers typically recommend annual maintenance by a qualified technician. Most of the time, damage to the furnace caused by improper maintenance is not covered under warranty. You wouldn't want to risk losing your warranty as repair and replacement parts can be really expensive. Usually, the cost of annual maintenance outweighs the cost of emergency repairs, inefficient unit, and the negative health effects of a poorly performing furnace.

Professional Furnace Maintenance with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

Keeping your furnace in great shape plays an important part in keeping your family comfortable and safe during winter. You can't afford to let someone not qualified to handle your furnace. It is highly recommended to call a licensed, certified, and trained technician to perform the necessary inspections, adjustments, and repairs on your heating system.

Our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning have multiple years of hands-on experience and are certified to install, repair, and maintain all furnace brands and models.

Our only goal is to keep our customers satisfied, that is why we only hire the best HVAC professionals in the Central Illinois area. If you entrust your furnace annual maintenance with us, you can be guaranteed to have ultimate comfort at the most reasonable costs.

If you're looking for the best Urbana furnace repair contractor, we are the company to call.

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Indoor Air Quality and Health

Most people think that air pollution only comes from outdoor sources like emissions from cars, power plants or smog. Not everyone is aware that the air from inside the home can be polluted as well. Most homeowners are uninformed that they are using household products and appliances that can pollute their indoor air. These items include gas stoves, heaters, cleaning items, tobacco and cigarette smoke, pollen and mold and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Ensuring your family's safety from the effects of these pollutants can be achieved by installing a complete air purification system.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading HVAC company in Normal, IL that offers innovative, modern ways to purify your indoor air.

Indoor Air Quality Defined

It refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Understanding and controlling common pollutants indoors can help reduce your risk of indoor health concerns. (Source: epa.gov)

Factors that Affect Indoor Air Quality

Your home's indoor air quality (IAQ) not only affects your comfort but also your health. A lot of factors have an effect on indoor air quality such as improper ventilation, high or low humidity, inconsistent temperature, and remodeling works. In addition, certain contaminants such as dust from construction works, cleaning supplies, pesticides, and other airborne chemicals may result in poor IAQ.

Top Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

Radon

Radon is a highly radioactive gas that can enter the home through the ground beneath it, well water, and building materials used to construct your home. It is a colorless, tasteless, and odorless gas that can produce no immediate symptoms, making it very difficult to detect. A study found out that radon in homes is three times more extensive than the radon that initiates outdoors.

Secondhand Smoke

Cigarette smoke has over 4,000 chemicals, including 43 known cancer-causing (carcinogenic) compounds and 400 other toxins. These cigarette ingredients include nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide, as well as formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, arsenic, and DDT.

Carbon Monoxide

Similar to radon, carbon monoxide is colorless, tasteless, and odorless. This gas can be released into your home by tobacco smoke, gas stoves and heaters, wood stoves, chimneys and even furnaces. If you have a garage attached to your home, be aware that cars also produce carbon monoxide.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are carbon-containing chemicals that are found in all living things. Volatile organic compounds, (VOCs) are organic compounds that easily become vapors or gases. In addition to carbon, they contain elements such as oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and sulfur.

Formaldehyde

This is a colorless, acrid-smelling gas used in making building materials and many household items. It is used in pressed-wood products, such as particleboard, plywood, and fiberboard, glues and adhesives, permanent-press fabrics, paper product coatings, and certain insulation products.

Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality has been linked to certain symptoms like headaches, confusion, fatigue, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and even lungs.

Poor indoor air quality can also pose more serious health risks like cancer if you are frequently exposed to pollutants such as asbestos and radon. Such cases do not show immediate symptoms but frequent exposure to one or more pollutants can be critical to your health.

Improving Your Indoor Air Quality

Maintain Your HVAC System

Since your HVAC system is responsible for circulating conditioned air throughout your home, it must be properly maintained in order to avoid the distribution of polluted indoor air. Annual maintenance ensures your heating and cooling systems are working both safely and efficiently.

Upgrade Your Filters

Upgrading your filters can help you achieve a cleaner indoor air. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can trap up to 99.97 percent of air contaminants in a complex web of fibers.

Use Humidifiers

An indoor humidity level of 50 percent or more boosts the growth of mold and dust mites. If your home has mold problems, consider investing in dehumidifiers. These systems suit in your ductwork and help lower the humidity in the air passing through, which hinders the development of mold.

Call the Indoor Air Quality Experts

Here at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning, your home comfort and safety are our main goals. That is why we work with some of the best manufacturers of air purification products to offer you a variety of air-cleaning solutions for your home.

Call us for your Normal heating and air conditioning needs.

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Lennox Merit® Series ML180 Gas Furnace

In an extremely cold weather, your goal is not just to keep your family comfortable but also safe from the health risks posed by exposure to low temperatures. Thankfully your furnace is there to get the job done. However, along with that comfort is the increase in your utility bills. Since your furnace needs to constantly run, it requires more energy and its parts are bound to fail at some point.

If your unit has been serving you and your family for 15 years or more, it no longer has the performance and efficiency it once had. Age is one of the main factors to consider in determining the efficiency of your unit. Also, watch out for warning signs that tell your unit is due for a replacement. When your furnace begins to make strange noises, when it fails more frequently, or when there's a steady rise in your heating bills, it may be time to search for a new heating system.

If you notice a steady increase in your heating bills as well as repair costs, you might want to consider upgrading to a new furnace.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a premier heating company in Urbana, IL that offers innovative and cost-effective furnaces. These heating systems are designed to deliver top performance and utilize the latest technologies to ensure you get the best in home heating.

This article highlights the Lennox Merit® Series ML180 Gas Furnace.

Warning Signs You Need a New Furnace

Utility and repair costs aren't the only things to watch out for. Here are other signs that tell you it's time to get a new furnace.

If anyone in your family suffers from allergies caused by airborne dust, pollen, mold or viruses, it means that you have a poor indoor air quality. Old furnaces are unable to maintain the right amount of moisture and clean your indoor air which not just triggers allergies but also affects other body organs such as the throat, nose and even the lungs.

If you have to turn your thermostat higher and higher to heat your home but it doesn't make much of a difference, it shows that your furnace is due for a repair. This is a sign that your thermostat lacks the ability to properly circulate the air to keep your home comfortable.

If your furnace is working properly, it should produce a blue flame with only very little yellow at the tip of the flame's inner core. If the flame is primarily yellow or orange, it may be a sign that it creates carbon monoxide. This implies a major, potentially dangerous issue. Two possible causes of this problem are too much gas and not enough air. Either way, you need a professional to investigate the problem and give you necessary recommendations.

Features of the Merit® Series ML180 Gas Furnace

Every component of the ML180 has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

From its heavy-gauge steel cabinet and aluminized steel heat exchanger to its sealed blower compartment, the ML180 is built to deliver reliable comfort, year after year.

An AFUE of 80% means 80 cents of every dollar spent on gas goes directly toward heating your home. That can mean potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year when compared to an older furnace.

When the ML180 is paired with a Lennox® heat pump, it creates a system that can automatically alternate between electricity and gas to keep you warm. So you're always using the most energy-efficient way to keep comfortable.

The ML180 has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is constructed from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that allows the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the furnace's life.

Its hot surface igniter controls furnace operation to ensure reliable, efficient performance.

With product registration, the ML180 may be eligible for a 10-year Limited Extended Warranty. Lennox also offers a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and 20-Year Warranty on the Heat Exchanger.

Ask the Heating Pros

For more information about this great furnace, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We are an authorized Lennox dealer that can install your unit properly and in accordance with the manufacturer's standards to ensure maximum furnace efficiency.

We are the trusted Urbana furnace installation company serving Central Illinois for over 30 years.

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Lennox Elite® Series XP16 Heat Pump

Many homeowners still use central air and are complaining about comfort issues such as inconsistent cooling and heating in their homes, which significantly reduces their comfort. The truth is that you cannot effectively control the temperature of the whole house with just a single thermostat.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an average duct system leaks about 20 to 30 percent of its air. On the other hand, older systems can allow up to 50 percent of heated or cooled air to escape into the ceiling or attic space causing discomfort and throwing away a lot of energy. These leaks cause poor air quality that triggers allergic reactions and certain respiratory diseases.

In order to offer effective solutions to theseissues, Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning partnered with Lennox Industries, a manufacturer of some of the best heat pumps in the industry. We are a trusted HVAC company in Peoria, IL that delivers top-notch heating and cooling products designed to maximize your home comfort.

Advantages of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide an effective way of heating and cooling your home. During winter, it provides warmth not by transforming electricity directly into heat, but rather by taking in the heat from the atmosphere or ground, multiplying it and then transferring the heat to your home.

Heat pumps have a lot to offer both to homeowners and the environment. That is why they have been so popular in recent years. They can be used to heat or cool space through radiators, air convectors, and under floor heating systems, and can also be used to heat water for general use in your home.

When installed according to manufacturer's guidelines, heat pumps can provide a very effective control over room temperature.

A heat pump is also economical to operate since it uses less fuel. Typically, heat pumps can be 200 percent to 400 percent more efficient than other systems. This fuel efficiency translates to a lower carbon footprint and more savings for you.

While it may cost you a substantial amount to invest in a heat pump, but you will be repaid by getting lower monthly utility bills once it is operational.

Features

With an efficiency rating of up to 17.00 SEER / 9.50 HSPF, this product can save you hundreds of dollars each year, compared to a standard heat pump.

Dual-fuel capability can be combined with a gas furnace to enhance comfort and fuel efficiency by alternating between electric and gas heat, optimizing energy use and minimizing heating costs

Its High-Efficiency Outdoor Coil provides exceptional heat transfer and low air resistance for high-efficiency operation.

High-efficiency outdoor coil provides exceptional heat transfer and low air resistance for high-efficiency operation.

Designed to work with the Humiditrol whole-home dehumidification system.

The XP16's sound levels as low as 74 dB are much quieter than a standard heat pump.

Its Precision-Balanced Direct-Drive Fan delivers quiet operation with a patented-pending fan design.

Its two-stage scroll compressor operates at low stage most of the time for quieter, more efficient performance.

It uses a PermaGuard Cabinet, which is a heavy-gauge, galvanized steel construction, louver coil guard, baked-on powder finish and durable zinc-coated steel base provides long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.

SmartHinge louver design allows quick, easy access to interior components from all sides for cleaning and maintenance. It protects coils from damage and provides a clean appearance.

Its chlorine-free R-410A refrigerant provides exceptional comfort without exacting a costly environmental toll.

Drainage holes prevent damaging moisture from collecting inside the basepan.

Ask the Heating and Cooling Pros

There are many other reasons why having a heat pump installed in your home is a great choice. If you need more information about this product or any other HVAC concern, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning.

We have been the trusted Peoria heating and air conditioning company since 1983. You can put your trust on our seasoned and experienced technicians who have been factory-trained to install and service all brands of heating equipment.

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How High Energy Efficiency Furnaces Save Homeowners Money

During the frigid months of winter, heating typically accounts for more than half of your monthly utility expenses. Since your furnace needs to constantly run, it consumes more energy and its parts are will inevitably fail.

If you have an older, low or mid-efficiency furnace, you have been spending too much to heat your home. Not only does an old, inefficient heating system burns more fuel, it also causes temperature and comfort issues.

Furnaces are never built to last forever. At some point, your unit will show signs of decline in performance and will cause you to spend more to maintain it. If you have been using your furnace for the last 15 years, you may notice a rise in your heating bills and more frequent need for repairs.

Thankfully, new and advanced furnaces utilize more efficient technologies to provide your home with ultimate comfort at minimal operating costs.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading heating company in Peoria, IL that offers high-efficiency furnaces engineered to address the issues associated with older furnaces such as high fuel consumption and poor performance.

Understanding the Efficiency Ratings of Furnaces

A furnace's efficiency is measured by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). AFUE is a measure of how efficient the appliance is in converting energy in its fuel to heat over the course of a typical year. Particularly, AFUE is the ratio of annual heat output of the furnace compared to the total annual fossil fuel energy it consumed.

For example, a furnace with 95% AFUE means that 95% of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for the home and the remaining 5% escapes up the chimney and elsewhere.

The Federal Trade Commission demands manufacturers to display their AFUE on their furnaces so consumers can compare heating efficiencies of different models.

Why Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Furnace

Because of the many conveniences they offer, high-efficiency furnaces are recommended not only by professionals, but the U.S. government itself, which particularly offers a federal tax credit of up to 30 percent, or up to $1500 if you invest in a high-efficiency furnace for your home.

Most high-efficiency furnaces have the ENERGY STAR® label. These products are the same or better than standard products, only they use less fuel. To qualify for ENERGY STAR's seal of approval, furnaces must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.

Benefits of High-Efficiency Furnaces

Greater Comfort

While conventional furnace blowers typically operate at full speed, high-efficiency furnaces utilize variable-speed blowers that maximize fuel savings. These blowers provide more comfortable heating by adjusting the airflow speed to meet real-time heating needs.

Safer Operation

High-efficiency furnaces use outside air for combustion, not air inside your home. This prevents furnace damage caused by vapors from laundry products, which can corrode furnace components.

Condensing furnaces use an electronic ignition system that has been proven safe and reliable compared to old furnaces that utilize standing pilot light. This ignition system only uses heat when the furnace calls for heat.

Maximum Energy Efficiency

High-efficiency furnaces use a second heat exchanger to catch much of the heat that would normally float up the chimney.

Blower compartments on high-efficiency furnaces are usually insulated to preserve heat. Traditional heating systems normally are not insulated.

Compared to older, low-efficiency models, condensing furnaces have a minimum efficiency rating of 90 percent AFUE that can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year, depending on your usage.

Certain high-efficiency furnaces also reduce electricity consumption by pairing an advanced, programmable thermostat to a variable speed motor. This enables the system to run the blower for longer periods of time at lower speeds. It provides quieter and more even and comfortable heat and doesn't unnecessarily consume electricity.

High-Efficiency Heating with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

In response to rising fuel and repair costs, a high-efficiency furnace can be a wise choice for your home. While investing in one may involve a higher initial cost, its fuel efficiency will help you save hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year.

For more information about high-efficiency or condensing furnaces, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We are the trusted Peoria furnace replacement and repair contractor since 1983.

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Lennox Merit® Series ML193 Gas Furnace

When a furnace is approaching the end of its life, it tends to work harder in order to provide the heating demands of your home. As your furnace ages, it loses its efficiency, especially if it has not been regularly maintained by a professional. A poorly functioning furnace can cause a lot of inconveniences to you and your family.

If anyone in your family suffers from allergies caused by airborne dust, pollen, mold or viruses, it means that you have a poor indoor air quality. Old furnaces are unable to moisturize and clean the air to your home which not just triggers allergies but also affects other body organs such as the throat, nose and even the lungs.

Older furnaces can form cracks in the heat exchanger. This results in the leakage of carbon monoxide, a very harmful gas. That is why pros recommend having working carbon monoxide detectors in your home. If there has been a leak of this dangerous gas in your home, you will show symptoms like headaches, nausea, disorientation, irritation of the skin and eyes, and other signs of illness. Opening your windows can help air out your home but it is important to call a heating technician immediately to seal up the leaks and make the necessary repairs.

It is quite normal for you to have higher heating bills when fuel prices go up. However, that may not be the only reason why your heating bills go up during winter. As furnaces go older, they tend to lose their efficiency, especially if they haven't been regularly maintained. Because of inefficiency, an older furnace needs to run longer to give you that warm, toasty feeling. This extended operation uses more energy and as a result, you have to pay more to get your desired temperature.

If you notice any of these issues, you may need to consider replacing your furnace.

Bratcher Heating and Conditioning is a trusted heating company in Peoria, IL that offers high-quality furnaces for homes.

In this article, will highlight a specific furnace in Lennox's Merit Series, the ML193.

Features of the Lennox ML193

Standard Features

With product registration, the ML193 may be eligible for a 10-year Limited Extended Warranty. Lennox also offers a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and 20-Year Warranty on the Heat Exchanger.

Every component of the ML193 has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

Energy Efficiency

Compared to older, low-efficiency models, the ML195 has an efficiency rating of 93 percent AFUE that can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year.

When paired with a Lennox® heat pump, the ML193 creates a system that can automatically alternate between electricity and gas fuel to keep you warm. So you're always using the most energy-efficient way to keep comfortable.

The blower compartment of the ML193 is tightly sealed, permitting less than 1% air leakage. This means more of your air and energy go toward keeping you comfortable.

Performance

The ML193 has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is constructed from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that allows the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the furnace's life.

Its SureLight® ignitor is designed with silicon nitride construction for long product life and reliable operation.

Its SureLight® integrated control board ensures full control of furnace operation.

To further lessen heat loss, Lennox designed the ML193 with an elegantly-styled, durable steel cabinet with high-quality paint finish.

Get the ML193 Only from an Authorized Dealer

The Lennox ML193 is a high-efficiency furnace designed to give you ultimate comfort at very minimal operating costs. Poor installation can reduce it to a mediocre heating system.

For best results, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning to have this product installed in your home. We will ensure your unit will be set up in the proper way to maximize your comfort and savings.

Allow us to provide your Peoria furnace repair and other HVAC needs.

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Healthy Climate 11 Media Air Cleaner

Most Americans spend the majority of their time indoors, putting them in danger of developing significant health risks due to recurrent exposure to indoor air pollutants, including their homes.

It is recommended that every home should have an air cleaning system to ensure the occupants' health safety. Here are some reasons why you should have one installed in your home:

Sickness in the Family

Having a serious chest condition might be a sign that you need an air purifier. Air cleaners can help them breathe fresher air and have a better quality sleep, which will aid recovery.

Continuous Sneezing

Pollen, pet dander, and dust are just some of the pollutants that could be circulating in your house. The best air cleaners usually contain HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestor) filters with high CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) ratings that will help you trap most if not all airborne allergens.

A Stationary Indoor Air

If the air in your home smells bad, you might have poor indoor air quality. An air purifier will guarantee that you reduce any smelly, foul odors that might be circulating throughout your home.

Children

Because they breathe more air per pound of body weight, children are more vulnerable to air pollution compared to adults. Children's organs, especially their lungs, develop until they reach their late teens. Studies show that developing organs are sensitive to the harmful effects of air pollutants and environmental toxins and they take in pollutants more readily than adults and keep them in the body for longer periods of time.

Older People

People aged 60 or older naturally have weaker immune systems compared to younger people, which makes them more susceptible to the health risks of indoor air pollutant. Whether we like it or not, as we grow older, our bodies weaken and become less efficient compared to when we were younger.  That is why having a consistent circulation of clean, fresh air is important as it helps you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle and also prolongs your life.

If any of these scenarios sound familiar to you, you might want to consider having an air cleaner installed in your home.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is an HVAC company in Champaign, IL that can help you clean your indoor air. We work in partnership with Lennox to offer you air cleaners that can effectively capture air contaminants throughout your home.

This article features the Healthy Climate 11 Media Air Cleaner.

Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

Understanding and controlling common household pollutants can help reduce your risk of indoor health problems.

Sources of indoor pollution include:

Pollen and Mold

Tobacco or cigarette smoke

Household cleaning products

Gases such as radon and carbon monoxide

Stoves, heaters, fireplaces, and chimneys

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Materials used in the building such as lead, asbestos, and formaldehyde

Acute Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollution

Headaches

Eye, nose and throat irritation

Allergic skin reaction

Difficulty breathing

Nausea and/or vomiting

Confusion

Loss of coordination

Dizziness

Fatigue

Nosebleeds

 Chronic Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollution

Damage to the heart, liver or kidneys

Damage to the central nervous system

Cancer

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

Asthma

Features of the Healthy Climate 11 Media Air Cleaner

The Healthy Climate® 11 Media Air Cleaner, which uses either X6670 or X6672 MERV filters, which effectively filters more than 85 percent of particles like pet dander, pollen, dust, viruses, bacteria, mold, and fungi, which can aggravate asthma and respiratory illnesses.

This product is compatible with any HVAC system and does not require an additional power source.

It installs easily into your ductwork and provides powerful whole-home filtration for healthier, cleaner air in every room of your home.

It protects the lifespan of your HVAC system by filtering out dirt and dust, which reduces the efficiency of your HVAC products over time.

Healthy Climate backs this product with a 5-year limited warranty on covered parts.

The Lennox Healthy Climate® 11 Media Air Cleaner filters the air without emitting harmful ozone, a known lung irritant.

Professional Air Cleaning from Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

For more information about the Healthy Climate 11 Media Air Cleaner, call our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. Since 1983, we have been providing Champaign homeowners with exceptional heating and air conditioning products and services. Our aim is to become your first choice for your home comfort needs.

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Dave Lennox Signature® Collection XP21 Heat Pump

While central air can provide you conditioned air throughout your home, it can also cause a number of issues such as inconsistent heating and cooling and ductwork problems.

If you are looking for an energy-efficient alternative to heat or cool your home, you might want to consider getting a heat pump.

During winter, heat pumps move heat from the cool outdoors into your warm house and during summer, heat pumps move heat from your cool house into the warm outdoors. Because they move heat rather than produce heat, heat pumps can provide similar space conditioning at as little as 25 percent of the cost of operating a traditional heating or cooling system.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is an HVAC company in Bloomington, IL that offers innovative heat pumps designed to help you achieve consistent heating and cooling for your home.

This article talks about the Dave Lennox Signature® Collection XP21 Heat Pump.

Features of the Dave Lennox Signature® Collection XP21 Heat Pump

With an efficiency rating of up to 19.20 SEER / 9.70 HSPF, this product can save you hundreds of dollars each year, compared to a standard heat pump.

Two-Stage cooling allows the XP21 to run more efficiently and produce more even temperatures than a conventional single-stage system.

This heat pump is ENERGY STAR® certified and is designated as one of the Most Efficient products in 2017. ENERGY STAR products are the same or better than standard products, only they use less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, furnaces must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants. And you get the features and quality you expect.

SunSource® Solar-Ready option allows you to add solar modules and create a solar powered system that generates electricity for your heat pump and more.

Federal, state and local tax rebates and incentives may be available with a SunSource solar installation.

SilentComfort® technology delivers sounds levels as low as 67 dB, providing the ultimate in quiet, consistent heating and cooling.

When installed with the easy-to-use programmable iComfort Wi-Fi® Touchscreen Thermostat, Its iComfort®-enabled technology allows the XP21 to exchange information and make adjustments as needed to optimize performance and efficiency.

The XP21's dual-fuel capability can be combined with a gas furnace to enhance comfort and fuel efficiency by alternating between electric and gas heat, optimizing energy use and minimizing heating costs.

This product is Humiditrol® whole-home dehumidification system compatible, allowing the system to manage the moisture in your home's air for greater comfort and improved indoor air quality.

Dependable two-stage scroll compressor with Silent Comfort technology operates at low stage most of the time for quieter, more efficient performance.

Its precision-molded compressor sound cover minimizes operating sounds.

IntelliFrost® Defrost Control helps prevent freezing and icing of the fan blade to ensure reliable operation.

It has a PermaGuard Cabinet, which is a heavy-gauge, galvanized steel construction, louver coil guard, baked-on powder finish and durable zinc-coated steel base provides long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.

SmartHinge louver design allows quick, easy access to interior components from all sides for cleaning and maintenance. It protects coils from damage and provides a clean appearance.

Its chlorine-free R-410A refrigerant provides exceptional comfort without exacting a costly environmental toll.

Let the Experts Assist You

Heat pumps are good retrofit add-ons to homes with heating and cooling systems that do use have ducts. They can also be an excellent choice for room additions where extending ductwork is not possible. Also, if you have rooms that are rarely used such as guest rooms and libraries, a heat pump can be beneficial to you.

If you are considering getting an XP21 heat pump installed in your home, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. Our technicians are trained directly by Lennox to ensure every system we install meets the manufacturer's standards.

Contact us for your Normal heating and air conditioning needs.

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Lennox Elite® Series EL180E Gas Furnace

Winter is the season when your home's heating can account for more than half of your monthly utility bill. If you have an old furnace, not only does it generate more sound, it also starts to lose its efficiency due to wear and tear. This causes your furnace to work harder in an effort to keep you and your family warm. This added pressure on your heating system leads to higher utility bills and constant repairs.

Depending on usage and maintenance, furnaces typically last up to 15 years or more. A new heating system is an investment in your family's comfort, you want to make sure you make the right decision.

Here at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning, we value your home comfort above anything else. We want you to have the convenience of having an efficient heating system without paying more than what you have to. That is why we partnered with Lennox to provide you with some of the most innovative furnaces in the industry.

We are the trusted heating company in Peoria that delivers outstanding HVAC solutions to our valued customers.

This article features the Lennox Lennox Elite®Series EL180E, an efficient gas furnace featuring Power Saver technology.

Standard Features

The EL180E has an efficiency rating of up to 80 percent AFUE, which can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year, compared to older, low-efficiency furnaces.

Its Power Saver™ motor operates at constant torque to help maintain consistent airflow. Power Saver technology not only provides energy boost capabilities improving the overall system efficiency, similar to a variable speed furnace, but also delivers higher SEER ratings in cooling mode. In continuous fan mode, this technology helps keep energy waste to a minimum.

Every component of the EL180E has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

To minimize heat loss and maximize comfort and efficiency, Lennox created an insulated blower compartment for this model.

Performance

The EL180E has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is constructed from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that allows the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the furnace's life.

The EL180E has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is constructed from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that allows the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the furnace's life.

The EL180E includes special sound-absorbing materials that further reduce sound for even quieter operation.

To further lessen heat loss, Lennox designed the EL180E with an elegantly-styled, durable steel cabinet with high-quality paint finish.

Let the Heating Pros Get the Job Done

If you are still stuck with your old, inefficient furnace, you could be wasting up to 35 percent of every dollar you spent on your heating bills. The U.S. Department of Energy demands that all furnaces must convert at least 80 percent of their fuel into heat.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is committed to providing homeowners with the latest and most innovative heating systems on the market. If you are in search of a new furnace, call us and we will provide you with all the information needed so you can make a wise decision. After all, you're not just investing in a new furnace but more importantly, in your family's overall comfort and safety.

With the Lennox EL180E, you'll have a system that delivers heat efficiently and quietly. In addition, once we install your new furnace, the utility costs for your home will significantly drop since Lennox continuously works to improve the efficiency of their heating products.

For your peace of mind, know that our HVAC professionals are factory trained and certified to install and maintain the furnace brands we carry. We are knowledgeable in every detail of the units we install and service, so you can be confident about the quality of workmanship we deliver.

Entrust your Peoria furnace repair and installation needs only to the pros at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning.

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Why Proper Sizing for Your Furnace Matters

While most homeowners care primarily about their desired comfort levels, they don't really pay much attention to their furnaces' sizing. Understand that when it comes to heating systems, bigger isn't always better. The health and efficiency of your unit depend on how properly sized it is for your home. A furnace that is too small for your home is unable to supply the right amount of heated air to keep everyone comfy.

On the other hand, a furnace that's too large may not seem to be good but it actually creates too much noise and keeps on cycling on and off, which wears it down more quickly. In other words, short cycles include your furnace being turned on for only a brief amount of time and then being turned off again. This increases your energy consumption and costs you even more on your electric bill.

A properly sized furnace will benefit both you and the furnace itself. There are certain calculations and considerations to consider in order to accurately size your heating systems. For many homeowners, this can be an overwhelming experience.

The good news is you do not have to worry about these calculations yourself.

A heating company in Urbana, IL such as Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning employs trained technicians who know exactly how to figure out what size and kind of heating system that fits your needs.

Why Professional Consultation is Important

One of the factors to consider when sizing your furnace is the size of the space that needs to be heated. This will determine not only how large or small a unit that needs to be installed but also the number and frequency of heating ducts to move the heated air throughout your home.

In order to keep your heating costs down, the technician can determine the best system that is appropriate for your heating needs.

Things to Consider to Properly Size Your Furnace

In addition to these factors, the technician will also make other considerations to accurately size your new furnace. These include:

Climate

The climate in your region has a direct impact on your overall comfort. You won't need an overly powerful furnace if you live in a warmer climate.

Number of Rooms and Levels

Since heat naturally rises, a room that has multiple levels is more difficult to heat than a room or house that only has one floor. Having two rooms of the same square footage won't necessarily need the same furnace size if one has multiple levels.

Windows

The position, number, and type of windows affect the amount of radiant heat coming through. Also, older, inefficient windows easily let our heated air.

Insulation

The better your insulation, the less energy your furnace will need to do its job since insulation blocks the movement of heat. This translates to lower utility bills.

The Advantages of a Properly Sized Furnace

You always want your home to be as comfortable as possible, especially if you spend a lot of time indoors. Having the right sized furnace is essential, particularly if you want your home to be comfortably warm during the hyperborean months of winter.

A properly sized heating system will heat the home more quickly and efficiently. You will enjoy a significant drop in your heating bills each month, and your repair bills will be kept to a minimum.

There will be no disproportionate noise in its operation as it works according to the manufacturer's specifications, rather than giving the unit unnecessary burden and shortening its life cycle.

In addition, the humidity in your home will be improved, giving you a better air quality. The air will be pushed through filters at the proper pressure, taking away airborne contaminants easily.

Get Help From the Heating Pros

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning can help you properly size your heating system to ensure you get a consistent temperature throughout your home while keeping your furnace energy-efficient. Proper sizing with regular professional maintenance can help you keep your furnace in good condition for years.

Our technicians are certified and trained to make important calculations and recommendations to make sure you get the right system to keep you and your family comfortable when the weather is frigid.

We have been providing Urbana heating and air conditioning solutions since 1983. Our valued customers keep on coming back because their expectations are always met. We work hard to earn their trust and will continue to deliver unmatched customer satisfaction.

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Lennox EL195E: A Single-Stage Furnace with Power Saver™ Technology

Extremely cold weather can be dangerous to your health. More than any other time of the year, you'll expect your furnace to keep you and your family comfortably warm during winter. What if your existing furnace isn't able to keep up with your family's heating needs due because it's too old? You won't allow your family to be in the cold, will you?

When your furnace starts to show signs of decline in performance, you will be faced with the inevitable: choosing between having it constantly repaired or to replace it once and for all. Though investing in a new heating system involves a higher upfront cost than keeping your old, inefficient furnace, you can achieve greater comfort and peace of mind for you and your family if you opt to get a new unit.

If you want to get a system that is able to provide you with consistent heat without the hike in your utility bills, consider upgrading to a new, high-efficiency model.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a trusted heating company in Peoria, IL that cares about your comfort and safety more than anything else.

In partnership with Lennox Industries, we provide you with an array of furnace choices that meet your needs and budget.

This article talks about the Lennox EL195E, one of the models in the Lennox Elite Series of furnaces.

Efficiency Ratings of Furnaces

Old furnaces from 30 years ago typically had an annual fuel utilization efficiency of 80 percent or less. This means that at least 20 percent of your heat is being wasted.

There are even older models from forty years ago that had an AFUE of 60 to 65 percent. If you still have one of those, your furnace is blowing 35 to 40 cents in gas costs for every dollar you spent.

On the other hand, high-efficiency heating systems have an AFUE of 90 percent or more. This translates to only 10 percent of your heat goes up the chimney.

Energy-Saving Features of High-Efficiency Furnaces

High-efficiency furnaces incorporate a second heat exchanger to catch much of the heat that would usually escape up the chimney.

Multi-speed and variable-speed blowers lower electric use by matching the blower speed to the heating requirements of the room.

Blower compartments on high-efficiency furnaces are usually insulated to preserve heat. Traditional heating systems normally are not insulated.

Most condensing furnaces use a high-efficiency air filtration system to improve indoor air quality, giving you a safer home environment.

Modulating or variable capacity gas valves and an electronic control system allows for fine adjustments to the burner setting and blower motor speed for better temperature control and energy-efficiency.

Sealed combustion chamber mixes combustion air from outdoors and the fuel at a controlled rate, maximizing the heat generated by the fuel.

Features of the Lennox EL195E

This furnace is ENERGY STAR® qualified. Heating systems that have the ENERGY STAR® label meet or even exceed the U.S. federal standards for energy efficiency.

If you live in a chilly climate, it is recommended to invest in the highest-efficiency system, as it gives you greater savings.

The EL195E's Power Saver™ motor operates at constant torque to help maintain consistent airflow. Power Saver technology not only provides energy boost capabilities improving the overall system efficiency, similar to a variable speed furnace, but also delivers higher SEER ratings in cooling mode. In continuous fan mode, this technology helps keep energy waste to a minimum.

Compared to older, low-efficiency models, the EL195E has an efficiency rating of up to 95 percent AFUE that can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year.

When paired with a Lennox®heat pump, the EL195E creates a system that can automatically alternate between electricity and gas fuel to keep you warm. So you're always using the most energy-efficient way to keep comfortable.

Every component of the EL296E has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

With product registration, the EL195E may be eligible for a 10-year Limited Extended Warranty. Lennox also offers a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and Limited Lifetime Warranty on the Heat Exchanger.

Ask the Heating Pros

Call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning if you are considering having the Lennox EL195E installed in your home. We hire only qualified and highly trained technicians to ensure all systems we set up are properly installed. We have been serving the heating and air conditioning needs of homeowners in the Central Illinois area since 1983. Contact us for Peoria furnace repair, maintenance and installation.

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Lennox MPA Mini-Split Heat Pump

If your current HVAC system fails to transport an even distribution of heated or cooled air throughout your home, you need to have a technician inspect your entire heating and cooling system. That's because inconsistent heating or cooling can be caused by several factors, one of which is an improperly sized system or ductwork.

In houses with forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to circulate conditioned air throughout the house. In a common house, however, about 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. This results in higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set.

A ductless system is a great solution to the problem of inconsistent heating and cooling or if you have areas in your room where there is no existing ductwork.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is an HVAC company in Bloomington, IL that carries innovative and cost-effective ductless systems.

Overview of Ductless Systems

Developed in Japan more than 30 years ago, ductless systems are highly efficient zonal heating and cooling systems. They have completely revolutionized the way people heat and cool their homes. More than 50% of the residential air conditioners sold all over the world are ductless heat pumps. Unlike central air, ductless systems do not require ducts to move air. This is one of the reasons why they are the most comfortable, quietest, and energy efficient way to condition the air in your home.

Advantages of Ductless Systems

HVAC zoning is made possible because of ductless systems' small size. This allows individual rooms to have personalized heating and cooling settings, depending on the occupants' preferences. This is obtained by having a separate thermostat for each room, making it more energy efficient and highly economical. Compared to conventional HVAC systems, mini splits consume 25 to 50 percent less energy.

In contrast to systems that have ductwork, mini splits are easier to install. It usually takes days to complete the installation of a conventional setup while a ductless system can be operational in as little as one day.

The absence of ducts enables mini splits to avoid energy losses associated with central forced air systems that utilize ductwork. This helps you save money on energy and do your part in helping the environment in the process.

Many ductless systems operate with a remote control to make it easier to manage when it is positioned high on a wall or suspended from a ceiling.

In addition to all of these benefits, certain ductless air conditioners and heat pumps are ENERGY STAR® rated which may qualify for federal and state tax incentives as well as local utility rebates.

Features of the Lennox MPA Mini-Split Heat Pump

With an efficiency rating of up to 23.50 SEER and 10.50 HSPF, it keeps you comfortable without generating high utility bills

Its inverter technology slowly ramps up system to full speed, delivering only the air that is needed

Its unique design makes system safer and more efficient than traditional space heaters

Indoor sound levels as low as 29 dB and outdoor levels as low as 51 dB

Secure installation leave you less vulnerable to problems associated with window units, such as insects, weather elements, and theft

This product uses an easy-to-use wireless remote control that allows you to change the temperature to fit your comfort needs

Ductless design eliminates complicated installation or expensive modifications

Small, compact design blends this model into any room

Get Help From the Pros

The Lennox MPA Mini-Split Heat Pump is a great way to provide your family with customized heating and cooling. Call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning if you need an expert opinion in deciding whether this product is what's best for your home.

In partnership with Lennox Industries, we aim to provide you with the best there is to offer.

Our technicians have industry-specific skill sets and are able to properly handle any system installation, repair or maintenance.

Our Normal heating and air conditioning customers keep coming back because their expectations are always met.

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The Lennox Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)

Back in the 1970s, new houses were built and were promoted as being energy efficient. This trend has developed to the present. Now these houses are so energy efficient that some people report hundreds of dollars in annual fuel savings. Constructing an energy efficient home actually meant using better-designed windows and doors and sealing up the structure to stop the outside air from leaking in and the inside air from leaking out.

However, these energy efficient houses were becoming tighter and as a result, indoor air quality was being compromised. The tighter the house is, the worse the condition becomes. Combustion and ventilation air is not able to penetrate into the house and combustion devices are being deficient in air. There is no replacement air for the exhaust fans to blow out which causes the house to de-pressurize. De-pressurizing a house can lead to a new set of problems including carbon monoxide poisoning.

Symptoms of a house that is too tight include:

Condensation on the windows

Smoke escaping from the fireplace or wood stove

Mold or mildew growing in corners or cupboards

Residual smoking or cooking odors and a general stale smell, especially in the mornings

High humidity level that cannot be corrected.

Thankfully, Lennox engineered an innovative solution that can improve your indoor environment. For maximum comfort, an Energy Recovery Ventilator system catches heat from contaminated air before it is transferred outdoors. In this article, we will talk about the Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV).

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is an HVAC company in Champaign, IL that offers you solutions to improve the air that flows throughout your home.

Overview

Energy recovery ventilation systems provide a controlled way of ventilating a home while minimizing energy loss. They reduce the costs of heating ventilated air in the winter by moving heat from the warm inside exhaust air to the fresh outside supply air. In the summer, the inside air cools the warmer supply air to reduce cooling costs.

When to Consider Getting a Ventilator System

A ventilator system can be useful if your home has any of these issues:

Tight construction helps save energy, but it can also make your air watery and muggy.

Attached garages can contain contaminants such as car fumes that can seep into your home.

Spray-foam insulation helps keep your home warm, but it also means that indoor air is continually re-circulated.

Features of the Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)

Designed to provide comfort in warmer, humid climates, the Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) helps keep your indoor air fresh without creating a possibly annoying situation.

If you live in a region with extreme weather, a Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) can help channel heat from inside your home and transfer it to incoming fresh air from outside. This allows your home to have greater comfort and helps control condensation during winter.

A Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) moves stale air from your house and keeping your indoor air comfortable at the same time. This process makes sure no energy is wasted.

Understand that there are some indoor air quality systems on the market that have negative effects on the environment. It's good to know that Healthy Climate® ventilation systems freshen the air without producing ozone, a toxic gas that can irritate the lungs.

A Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) will not restrict airflow for proper filtration.

Lennox backs this model with a 5-year limited warranty on covered components and a limited lifetime warranty on the aluminum core.

Also, all units include a Healthy Climate® wall control.

How Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning Can Help

The Healthy Climate® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is a great piece of equipment that can help you and your family breathe clean, fresh air.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a Dave Lennox Premier Dealer that is authorized to carry this innovative ventilation product. Call us for more information and we'll help you make an informed decision.

Be one of our satisfied Urbana customers who rely on us for all their heating and air conditioning needs.

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Lennox EL280 Product Feature

Your furnace is an important appliance that helps you live a comfortable life in the midst of a quite harsh winter. But at some point, like any other device, it is bound to fail and have a downturn in performance.

If your heating system has been in need of frequent repairs in the past two years, or if there has been a steady increase on your heating costs, it may be time for you to consider replacing your heating system.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning concentrates on making your home comfortable and energy efficient. That is why we partnered with Lennox Industries to provide you with the best products in heating and cooling.

We are the preferred heating company in Bloomington, IL that offers an array of innovative furnaces designed to give you comfort and safety.

This article talks about the Lennox model EL280 that produces consistent temperatures with two-stage heating, promising greater efficiency and better comfort compared to older, inefficient furnaces.

Features

The EL280 has an efficiency rating of up to 80 percent AFUE, which can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year, compared to older, low-efficiency furnaces.

The EL280's ultra-low continuous fan speed provides a quiet, constant flow of air and enhances indoor air quality devices.

When matched with a Lennox air conditioner or heat pump, the EL280 can improve your cooling Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), which leads to greater energy efficiency and lower energy costs.

Energy Efficiency

With an efficiency rating of up to 80 percent AFUE, the EL280 can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year, compared to older, low-efficiency furnaces. (Actual savings will vary depending on your area's fuel rates and your family's lifestyle.)

Its dual-fuel capability can be incorporated with an electric heat pump to create a dual-fuel system that maximizes comfort and fuel efficiency by smoothly alternating between electric and gas heat, optimizing energy use and minimizing heating costs.

To minimize heat loss and maximize comfort and efficiency, Lennox created a sealed blower compartment for the EL280.

Performance

This furnace has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is built from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that enables the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the EL280's lifespan.

The EL280's SureLight igniter increases its lifetime and improves reliability.

Its SureLight control board effectively controls its operation, guaranteeing better reliability and efficiency.

To further lessen heat loss, Lennox designed the EL280 with an elegantly-styled, durable steel cabinet with high-quality paint finish.

The EL280 include special sound-absorbing materials that further reduce sound for even quieter operation.

Let the Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning Pros Help You

Here at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning, we believe that more than anything else you want to provide your family with a comfortably warm home, especially during the frigid months of winter. After all, you can't put a price tag on your family's convenience and safety. An old furnace doesn't only waste a lot of money onenergy, it also compromises your health because of its lack of efficiency.

If you are considering replacing your current furnace with the Lennox EL280, call us and we will help you make an informed decision.

Our loyal Normal customers continue to rely on us for all their heating and cooling concerns. We provide Central Illinois homeowners with outstanding HVAC solutions including furnace repair, installation, and service.

Because of our effort in providing the best HVAC products and services, we have been selected as a Dave Lennox Premier Dealer that gives us access to even the most advanced and innovative Lennox furnaces.

For your peace of mind, know that our technicians receive special training directly from Lennox to ensure all systems we install are according to the manufacturer's standards. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable all year long.