Max Sr. & Paul Schoenwalder Plumbing Heating Air Conditioning -

How to Prevent Repairs for Your Furnace

September 25th, 2017

This year, don’t waste your time making repairs for your home furnace in the middle of winter, when you need it most. You might be surprised to hear that a large portion of the problems we see with furnaces in the colder season are largely preventable. Furnace repairs are frustrating, and in some cases, they are also dangerous. We want to help you avoid them at all costs.

We have seen firsthand that preventative maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your furnace, lowering your bills, and, possible, preventing repairs altogether. Find out our expert tips for preventing your furnace from breaking down or operating poorly below! For more, feel free to reach out to our team anytime.

Why Join a Maintenance Plan for Your AC and Heater?

September 11th, 2017

Some of the major investments you own are things you take every opportunity to protect. Your car, for example, hopefully receives regular oil changes and tire rotations. Your computer likely has antivirus protection installed. And you may use surge protectors to reduce the possibility of power surges that can slowly wear out your electronics.

The devices you don’t see or think of so often, though, may miss out on some of this protection you typically put into your investments. When it comes to your HVAC equipment—your heating and air conditioning equipment—the best way to make sure you get the service you need is with an HVAC maintenance plan from a local contractor.

Your Guide to Picking Out a New HVAC System

August 28th, 2017

Buying a new air conditioner often comes as a “distress purchase.” This term describes a purchase made in a time of need, when you cannot go for any longer without cool air in your home. However, as the air conditioning season draws to a close, we hope you’ll have more time to pick out your new air conditioner as it becomes less urgent.

Better yet, when you pick out a new air conditioner or heater before it breaks down—as it hits the 10-15 year mark—you’ll save yourself a lot of stress and get a new system you actually love! We’ve got your guide to some of the best features in the industry in today’s post.

How to Program Your Thermostat Efficiently

August 14th, 2017

Energy costs are always high in the middle of summer when you have a central air conditioner. While it may seem there’s little you can do to control costs, we have a couple of ideas. First, it’s important to see that your air conditioner gets regular maintenance, appointments for a tune-up with a trained technician each and every year. You’ll also need to change the filter once a month.

The rest is a job for the whole family. Finding an efficient thermostat setting can greatly reduce air conditioning costs, but it may take some time at first. See what we mean below, and call our air conditioning contractors in Scotch Plains to learn more!

What You Should Know about AC Refrigerants

July 31st, 2017

You probably already know that your air conditioner uses refrigerant (although you might have heard it called by a brand name, “Freon”). When an air conditioner isn’t working properly, homeowners often ask us this: “Does it just need more Freon?”

Sometimes, an air conditioner does only need to be recharged with refrigerant, a chemical blend of which there are actually many brands and types. But usually, it’s a bit more complex than this. To help you understand a bit more about refrigerants, their impact on the environment, and what happens when it runs low, we provide some pertinent information in today’s post.

To learn more or to schedule service for your AC system today, reach out to our air conditioning contractors in Union, NJ.

Why Would an Air Conditioner Leak Water?

July 17th, 2017

A water leak from your air conditioner can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars in damages—yikes! First, let’s clear up some initial confusion about this topic. No, your air conditioner does not use water to run (unless it is an evaporative cooler, systems which are only common in dry desert climates). So where is the water coming from?

More importantly, what can you do to prevent water from leaking in the first place, and what should you do when you notice a problem? We’ll cover all of that in today’s guide. For more information, reach out to our friendly team!

Why Is Your Water Heater Leaking?

July 3rd, 2017

This is something you weren’t expecting to see. Your water heater was not performing as expected, so you checked on the unit, only to see water leaking from the system. Yikes! The first and most important step is calling in a technician ASAP. And, if you are able to safely, you may want to shut off water to the tank so that the leakage cannot get any worse and do damage to your home.

Still, in the meantime, you might want some answers. Today, we look at a few of the problems that might cause a water heater to leak and what you should do to take control when it does. All in all, be sure to have the right team for the job to accurately diagnose the problem and make sure you get the service your water heater needs.

Common but Preventable AC Repairs

June 19th, 2017

Heating and air conditioning repair technician checking an outdoor HVAC condenser with gauges and testing equipment.

We know you’d like to think that your air conditioner is invincible. It would be nice to know that your cooling system will work when you need it most, but unfortunately, this is the time it’s most likely to fail. Your air conditioner may not be infallible, but it turns out that many of the repairs we see most often were entirely preventable.

Check out our list of some of the preventable repairs we make for air conditioners in the Scotch Plains, NJ area. And call our team for maintenance services ASAP!

How to Prepare Your Home and AC System for Summer

June 5th, 2017

We’ve already had a few surprisingly warm days in New Jersey, and it’s only going up from here (after the rain clears out, of course). Summer is nearly here, and it had its unofficial start on Memorial Day, so it’s time to think about how warmer weather may affect you and your home.

Take these steps to prepare your home for heat. It’s worth it in the end, when you are able to save money, stay more comfortable, and prevent a major headache in the hottest of months.

Here’s Why It’s So Important to Change Your Filter Every Month

May 22nd, 2017

We know you’ve heard this before. You should change the air conditioner filter in your home about once a month, or at least, every three months. Often, a reminder to change a home’s air conditioner filter is met with a groan. Many people see it as a chore that’s somewhat optional, or that can be put off for a long period of time if needed.

That’s because so many people don’t realize how an air filter actually works or the damage a dirty filter can do. It’s not just about your air quality. Dirty air conditioner filters can actually waste energy and lead to the early demise of your air conditioner! Regular filter changes are a key part of air conditioner maintenance, helping to improve efficiency, extend the lifespan of your system, and ensure optimal performance.

Neglecting maintenance of the entire AC system can lead to a decline in performance and increased energy use. A clean air conditioner runs far more efficiently than a dirty one. Annual maintenance is essential for ensuring all parts of the air conditioning system are operating within their proper specifications. Learn more in today’s guide, and stock up on filters. Changing your filter is a simple task that is worth it in the long run.