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Michigan’s climate is defined by crisp autumns and long, snowy winters. From the tree-lined streets of Brighton to the bustling shops near Kensington Metropark, residents know that once the leaves begin to fall, the cold is never far behind. This seasonal shift places a heavy demand on your furnace, which must work tirelessly to keep your home warm and comfortable. Dominion Service Company is here to guide you on the best time to schedule furnace maintenance so you can face the colder months with confidence.

When To Schedule Your Furnace Maintenance

The ideal time to arrange your furnace maintenance is in late summer or early fall. By September, Michigan evenings often dip into the 50s, and by October, the first frosts are common. Waiting until the chill sets in can leave you scrambling for service when demand is at its peak. Scheduling early ensures your system is ready before you need it most, and it gives technicians the opportunity to address small issues before they become costly repairs. We also offer a heating maintenance plan that makes it simple to stay on schedule year after year.

Furnace Care Checklist for Homeowners

Many residents question what they can do themselves. While professional service is essential, there are a few steps you can take to support your furnace’s performance.

• Change your filter: A clean filter improves airflow, reduces strain on the system, and helps maintain indoor air quality.
• Turn your furnace on early: Test it before the first cold snap to make sure it starts smoothly and doesn’t produce unusual noises or odors.
• Clear vents and registers: Remove dust, debris, or furniture blocking airflow so heat circulates evenly throughout your home.
• Schedule maintenance: Even with good habits, only a professional tune-up can catch hidden issues and keep your system running efficiently.

What Does Furnace Maintenance Include?

A professional tune-up is a comprehensive process designed to keep your system reliable and efficient. During a maintenance visit, technicians typically:

• Inspect and replace the air filter if needed.
• Clean internal components such as burners and flame sensors.
• Check electrical connections and tighten where necessary.
• Lubricate moving parts to reduce wear.
• Test safety controls and thermostat calibration.
• Examine the heat exchanger for cracks or damage.

This thorough approach ensures your furnace is not only ready to perform but also safe for your household.

Benefits of Scheduling Your Furnace Tune-Up in the Late Summer or Early Fall

• Improved efficiency: A clean, calibrated system uses less energy to heat your home.
• Reliable performance: Early service reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns during the coldest days.
• Extended lifespan: Preventive care helps your furnace last longer.
• Warranty protection: Many manufacturers require regular maintenance to keep your warranty valid.

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Schedule Your Fall Furnace Maintenance With Dominion Service Co.

Dominion Service Company takes pride in delivering furnace maintenance that goes beyond the basics. Our team services all brands of heating equipment, though we exclusively install Lennox systems as an authorized dealer. Every job is approached with a commitment to excellence, never cutting corners and always focusing on quality workmanship. With upfront pricing, you’ll know exactly what to expect, and our satisfaction guarantee ensures peace of mind long after the service is complete.

Schedule your furnace maintenance in Michigan today with Dominion Service Company. Protect your comfort, your investment, and your peace of mind before the cold sets in.

The average humidity in Brighton’s summer season is 80%, making its more mild temperatures feel much more oppressive. That’s why homeowners in this area need a reliable cooling system. If your AC has struggled this summer, this fall may be an optimal time for AC replacement.

In this article, the HVAC experts at Dominion Service Co. discuss the benefits of replacing your AC in late summer, along with signs that your system is due for an upgrade.

Why Choose Dominion To Replace Your AC?

If you’re ready for AC replacement in Southeast Michigan, call Dominion Service Co. for superior service. As your local, trusted Lennox authorized dealer, we ensure that any system we install is of the highest quality. Plus, our services are precise and always backed by our satisfaction guarantee. 

Why Late Summer Is A Good Time To Replace Your AC

At the end of the cooling season, demand for new systems can be lower, leading to faster install times and potential end-of-season deals. Plus, with the weather cooling off, you’ll still be comfortable during the installation process without AC. 

Signs It’s Time For A New Air Conditioner

Proactive AC replacements are often the best choice for your comfort and budget. That’s why it’s important to look out for signs that it’s time for a new system. Schedule replacement in these scenarios:

• Your AC is over ten years old: The average lifespan of an AC unit is 10-15 years. If yours is more than 10 years old, it won’t be long before it is unable to keep up with your cooling needs. Choosing to schedule a replacement proactively could help you avoid inconvenient breakdowns, expensive repairs, or comfort issues next summer. 
• Your AC uses Freon: R-22 Freon is getting gradually more difficult to source in the U.S. since environmental regulations phased it out in 2020. An AC that still uses this refrigerant will be expensive to recharge, and it may even be difficult to get ahold of the needed Freon. By replacing your system sooner rather than later, you can make the switch to a more eco-friendly, modern refrigerant.
• It needs extensive repairs: In general, HVAC contractors recommend that you do not repair a system if the cost of repair is more than half the cost of a new system, as replacement is a smarter investment. You can also use the $5,000 rule. Multiple the cost of repair by the age of the system. If that number is above $5,000, opt for replacement.
• Your home has hot and cold spots: Uneven cooling is a sign of a failing AC. Usually this has to do with your system’s aging parts or the fact that it’s too small. Replacing with a properly-sized AC that is new and energy-efficient can not only improve your comfort, but also reduce your cooling bills.

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Call Dominion Service Co. Today

Take advantage of the change in season with an AC replacement in Brighton this fall from Dominion Service Co. Our team of licensed and insured technicians provide unparalleled craftsmanship with every installation and can help you choose a system that will meet both your comfort and energy needs. Trust our upfront pricing and knowledgeable guidance to make a wise investment in your home today.

Schedule AC replacement services with Dominion Service Co. today.

There is no question that Michigan residents need energy-efficient cooling options during the summer. Our temperatures can reach the high 80s and occasionally exceed 90 degrees. Coupled with high humidity, it can make for miserable days if you don’t have a reliable way to cool down.

Two popular cooling options include central air conditioning and heat pumps. At Dominion Service Company, we have created this handy guide to help you determine which type of cooling system is right for your Michigan home.

What’s the Difference Between Central AC and a Heat Pump?

Both central AC and heat pumps cool your home using the exact same refrigeration technology to capture and transfer heat during the summer. In addition, both systems share fundamental components, including a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, a fan, and require ductwork to distribute cooled air.

The primary difference between central AC and heat pumps is dual functionality. Central AC cannot heat your home in the winter, whereas heat pumps can provide heat to your home by reversing the process, eliminating the need for a furnace.  

Comparing ACs and Heat Pumps for Michigan Summers

Now that you understand the difference between central AC and heat pumps, let’s take an in-depth look at how they compare and contrast based on a variety of factors.

Cooling performance

Heat pumps and central AC provide comparable performance so long as your unit is appropriately sized for your home. Central AC has cooling capabilities; however, you will need an additional system for heating in the winter. 

Energy efficiency

Compared to furnaces, heat pumps are more energy-efficient because they move heat rather than generate it. They also boast higher SEER ratings than some central AC units.

Newer central AC units are also energy-efficient, though you should check for features like SEER ratings over 18 and variable speed technology. A heat pump, however, may be more efficient at removing humidity, which in turn makes you feel cooler and more comfortable while using less energy. 

Cost

Heat pumps can potentially lead to lower energy bills due to their higher cooling efficiency and the added benefit of providing heat, which leads to even more savings in the winter. The initial purchase and installation costs of heat pumps are higher because they are complex pieces of equipment, though these costs can be offset by rebates and federal tax credits.

Central AC units are cheaper to purchase and install but tend to have higher long-term operating costs due to lower cooling efficiency.

Durability

Modern heat pumps are specifically designed to withstand year-round heating and cooling, although this can cause some components to wear out more quickly. Regular heat pump maintenance is crucial for keeping it operational and reducing emergency repair costs.

Central AC only runs for a portion of the year, which can reduce stress on the unit. Since central AC sits idle for many months out of a year, there can be occasional issues upon startup if not properly maintained.

Year-Round Use

Heating pumps can be used year-round. Central AC cannot. You will need a furnace or other heating system for Michigan’s bitterly cold winters.

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Which Is the Best Cooling Option for Your Michigan Home?

Before deciding which type of cooling system to install in your Michigan home, consider some important factors about heat pumps versus central air conditioning.

• Do you need to replace your furnace in addition to your AC?
• Do you have a budget set aside for higher upfront costs?
• Have you checked into state and federal rebates and incentives for central AC and heat pumps?
• Are you planning for future upgrades, such as solar panels?
• Do you have existing ductwork that is in good condition?
• Do you want to shrink your environmental footprint?

Why Choose Dominion Service Company?

At Dominion Service Company, we provide the highest-quality cooling installation services in Brighton, MI. Our technicians are highly trained and provide expert advice to choose the right cooling system for your home. We also offer upfront pricing on every job and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. After installation, we can provide cooling maintenance and repair services to keep your new system working reliably.

Choose the best HVAC Company in Brighton, MI. Contact us today to schedule your AC installation appointment.

Prepping for the summer heat in Southern Michigan means having a cooling system that can handle the extreme high temperatures and humidity of the season.

Knowing how to prepare your AC for hot, muggy weather can help you stay more comfortable inside when the temperatures outside become unbearable. Use this guide for summer AC preparation to be ready when the scorching heat sets in.

Why You Should Prep Your AC for Summer

Preparing your air conditioner ahead of summer helps you stay comfortable and keep costs lower. You’ll enjoy these benefits when you prep your system this spring:

• Prevent unexpected breakdowns and failures.
• Keep cooling costs lower with energy-efficient operation.
• Schedule repairs with plenty of time ahead of summer.
• Comply with warranty requirements.
• Keep your system healthy for a longer useful life.
• Improve your indoor air quality.

Inspect & Replace the Air Filter

Your cooling system uses an air filter to trap dust and contaminants that circulate through the system. This filter helps keep the air blowing through your home clean while preventing buildup inside the system.

A dirty or clogged filter can hinder airflow, causing your AC to work harder and longer to cool your home. Clogged filters can also cause your system to overheat and break down due to the added strain.

Inspect your air filter before you switch to cooling mode, and change it every one to three months to prevent clogs.

Check & Clean the Outdoor Unit

The part of the system that sits outside your house is the condenser. This unit includes coils and a fan, among other components, and helps make the cold air needed for your home comfort.

It’s crucial to keep the condenser clear and clean for optimal cooling. Remove all debris from the top of the unit, including leaves and twigs. Clear vegetation and other items from around it, and give it 2 to 3 feet of clearance.

You can use your garden hose to gently spray the outside of the condenser to remove dust and dirt from the coil. Do not spray water directly into the top of the unit when cleaning it. If you’d rather not take a chance doing it yourself, our technicians can clean the condenser during your professional AC tune-up.

Inspect Air Vents & Ductwork

Before turning on the air conditioner, make sure all your vents are clear and open. Move furniture and other belongings away from the vents to ensure plenty of open space for cold air to blow. Clean the vents and ducts at the opening where you can reach.

Schedule a ductwork inspection to ensure your air ducts have a clean and leak-free path of travel for cold air. If you feel like some rooms aren’t getting as much airflow as others, consider calling us for air balancing. This service helps create even cooling in every room without hot spots.

Test the Thermostat Before Summer

It’s wise to test your system ahead of the summer heat. If it doesn’t turn on, makes strange sounds, or doesn’t cool your home, your AC may need a repair. You might also need to check the thermostat for proper functioning.

If your thermostat isn’t properly calibrated, it won’t send accurate signals to the AC. This is also a good time to check the batteries and replace them if they’re low.

Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Along with these simple tasks you can do yourself, you need regular professional maintenance. Our technicians take a deep dive into your system, cleaning inside it, checking the refrigerant lines for leaks, clearing the condensate drain, and lubricating the moving parts. Our service ensures you’re ready for summer and helps prevent AC breakdowns.

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Why Schedule Your Spring Tune-Up With Dominion Service Company?

With years of experience serving the Southern Michigan area, our trained and trusted technicians provide nothing but the best when you call us for cooling services. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all services, giving you peace of mind as we head into the brutal heat of summer. Count on us for transparent upfront pricing, so there will be no surprises when you get your bill.

We offer easy financing options on approved credit to help you get service now and pay later, and with our comprehensive maintenance plan, you can keep your system healthy and enjoy many added perks. Head into summer with peace of mind knowing your AC system is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

Contact Dominion Service Company today to schedule air conditioner maintenance in Brighton, MI.

Tariffs are the talk of the town, and the million-dollar question is how both proposed and existing tariffs will impact your budget and the cost of heating and cooling your home. At Dominion Service Company, we understand your concerns. We will work with you to help you find the most effective, economical heating and cooling solutions for your needs in these uncertain times. 

Why Are HVAC Prices Increasing in 2025?

The short answer is tariffs and the threat of tariffs. These have a direct and indirect impact on the price of heating and cooling systems. When it comes to HVAC systems specifically, the U.S. has proposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, which includes a significant number of components and raw materials used in the manufacture of furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. 

Rising Costs of HVAC Equipment & Materials

HVAC systems are composed of a wide range of materials and components that are sourced from all over the world. There are a wide range of factors that have driven the cost of production upwards. Increased domestic regulations, rising shipping costs, greater competition for materials, weather events, wars, and other factors have caused prices to rise. 

Adding pressure to this and many other industries related to everything from construction to transportation is the rising cost of steel and aluminum, which means that every furnace, air conditioner, duct, etc. now costs more to mine, smelt, ship, process, and fabricate. Finally, there is the rising cost of circuit boards, thermostats, sensors, controllers, refrigerants, and spare parts. It’s a perfect storm of rising costs that are causing rising prices.

Increased Costs of Electronics

The rising cost of circuit boards, thermostats, sensors, controllers, refrigerants, and spare parts is notable. As these components become smarter and more sophisticated, it’s to be expected that they will also cost more to produce. Adding pressure to this is the increased cost and competition for the raw materials and manufacturing space required to deliver these components. 

Supply Chain Delays

We all saw with the COVID-19 pandemic how vulnerable the global supply chains were to disruption. This situation is similar. The difference is that the supply chains are intact, but they are stalled by indecision and inability to make effective business decisions. Some companies are stockpiling shipments for fear of having to pay exorbitant tariffs on arrival. Many businesses can’t afford the dramatic increase, particularly on shipments coming from China that can be subject to tariffs of up to 145%. 

Thus, it’s a safe bet that as these kinks in the supply chain worsen, the cost of purchasing new HVAC systems will rise. Even if deals are struck between nations, there is already significant congestion within the already tight global shipping market. This means that once inventory already in the country begins to run out, it may be many months before prices stabilize as those inventory levels are replenished. 

The bottom line for homeowners is that there is a significant likelihood of delays and rising costs even if everyone comes to an agreement in the coming months. 

What Homeowners Can Do When Faced With Rising Costs

Preparation is the greatest asset of every homeowner right now. Preparing your home and budget takes some effort, but it’s well worth the time invested. To that end, there are some steps we recommend taking sooner rather than later:

• Replace outdated or malfunctioning equipment: Replacing your outdated or malfunctioning systems is always prudent. This improves energy efficiency and helps ensure you don’t suffer a sudden system breakdown. It’s also the best option for taking advantage of tax credits and incentives that might also be in jeopardy. 
• Repair and maintain existing equipment: If your system requires minor or major repairs, repair it now. The longer you wait, the greater the potential for component shortages and higher prices. 
• Consider financing options: Financing allows you to pay for repairs or replacements over time. 

Why Choose Us?

When you need top-quality systems and a team that services all brands, you can rely on our team. As an authorized Lennox dealer, we offer a broad selection of systems for every need and budget. We’ll never take shortcuts and guarantee your satisfaction with our quality workmanship. 

When you need help navigating the best HVAC system for your home, contact the team at Dominion Service Co. to speak with our specialists.

You rely on your furnace to keep you warm all winter long, so it can be concerning if your heater starts acting strangely. If your furnace has started making strange noises, you may wonder what the cause is and if you should be worried. Different sounds coming from your furnace can mean different things. It’s important to know which sounds indicate a minor problem and which noises indicate a bigger issue so you can have the issue addressed right away.

Timely repairs are crucial for a well-functioning and long-lasting furnace. Dominion Service Company is here to explain why your furnace may be making weird noises, what they mean, and how you can fix them.

Contact Dominion Service Company to schedule furnace services in your area.

Why It’s Important To Listen to Your Furnace

If there’s an issue with your heating system, your furnace may make different noises depending on what’s wrong. Recognizing these different sounds can help you identify the potential cause of the issue so you know when it’s time to call a professional. Troubleshooting tips include cleaning or replacing dirty air filters, opening and cleaning your vents, as well as checking your pilot light, but attempting DIY repairs is not recommended. Furnaces are complex systems that require special expertise, so when in doubt, always call a trained HVAC technician for assistance.

Why Is My Furnace Making Banging Sounds?

If you hear a sharp bang when you start your furnace, there could be a delayed gas ignition problem, which should be addressed by a professional immediately. When there’s a delayed ignition, a small gas explosion occurs inside your furnace, as gas can build up in the combustion chamber when the burners don’t ignite on time. If your gas burners aren’t igniting efficiently, you could have a clog or a gas pressure problem.

Intermittent banging throughout your home isn’t as worrisome, as it’s probably just a result of your ductwork adjusting to changes in temperature.

Humming or Buzzing Noises

Low humming while your furnace operates is normal. However, if this hum becomes louder or turns into a loud buzz, you could have an electrical issue on your hands. Electrical can be extremely dangerous to work with without the proper tools and training, so it’s important to call a professional for help. Buzzing can also be caused by loose parts, which can damage other components if left unaddressed.

Clicking Noises at Startup

If you hear clicking noises at startup, there could be a problem with the electric pilot or ignition sequence, both of which should be looked at by a trained technician.

High-Pitched Whistling or Squealing Sounds

Squealing noises tend to indicate an issue with the blower motor, such as a damaged belt. You could also have failing bearings in the motor, which may need to be repaired or replaced by a professional. Discovering and addressing this issue early is an easy fix, but waiting will cause bigger problems to develop. Whistling sounds indicate restricted airflow in the system, potentially caused by a clogged air filter.

Clanging or Scraping Sounds

Clanging or rattling noises are typically a sign of loose components, but persistent rattling could mean you have a cracked heat exchanger, which is a much more serious problem. If you hear scraping, you may have worn-out ball bearings or a loose blower wheel. Turn off your furnace and call a certified professional for assistance.

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Call Dominion Today for Fast, Professional Furnace Diagnosis

At Dominion Service Company, our HVAC experts offer comprehensive furnace diagnostic and repair services. We also offer top-quality furnace maintenance services that will help prevent future issues and the need for repairs. Joining our Maintenance Plan gives you priority service, regularly scheduled maintenance visits, and more at a price that won’t break the bank. Our team has the expertise needed to service all brands, and we offer upfront, transparent pricing so you always know what to expect.

Schedule fast, professional furnace repairs with Dominion Service Company today.

When it comes to cooling your home, you might be debating whether to bring out the window AC units for another summer or invest in central air. Determining the best option for your home depends on factors like budget, home size, energy efficiency, and cooling needs. It’s also crucial to understand the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which system best suits your home and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of each system, the pros and cons of each, and alternative cooling systems for your consideration.

What Are Window AC Units?

Window ACs are self-contained cooling systems designed to fit into a window or a specially designed wall opening, and they also come in portable models. They cool a single room by pulling in warm air, cooling it with refrigerant, and then pushing the heat outside.

Advantages of Window Units

Some top perks of window units include:

• Easy installation: This system easily mounts into its designated spot and can often be done without professional assistance.
• No ductwork required: The self-contained design doesn’t require ductwork, making them ideal for ductless homes.
• Temperature zoning: Window units allow you to cool different rooms based on personalized preferences.
• Available at most hardware stores: You can typically find window units at your local hardware store, making them easy to access.
• Relatively affordable: Window ACs cost significantly less than central AC systems.

Disadvantages of Window Units

On the other hand, here are some drawbacks of window units:

• Blocks natural light: The bulky design takes up window space, limiting your view and hindering natural light infiltration.
• Noisy operation: Window units are typically noisier than central units, making them a bigger distraction.
• Security risk: If your unit is not properly secured in your window, it can grant easier access to unwanted guests.
• High electricity bills: Although the initial cost is lower, the risk of inefficiency can lead to higher monthly bills.

What Is Central Air Conditioning?

A central air conditioning unit is designed to cool an entire home or building by distributing cooled air through ductwork. Some key components of central AC include the outdoor unit (condenser) and the indoor unit (evaporator coil). These units are connected by a system of ductwork to distribute cool air through your home’s vents.

Advantages of Central AC

Many homeowners prefer central AC units for the following benefits:

• Even cooling: By using a system of ducts, central units evenly distribute cool air to all parts of your home.
• Increased property value: Central AC units are typically appealing to potential buyers, heightening a home’s curb appeal.
• Lower electricity bills: Despite higher installation costs, central AC units are generally less expensive to maintain over time.
• Thermostat control: Central AC units work in tandem with a thermostat that’s designed to maintain optimal temperature control.
• Quiet operation: Central units operate quietly, limiting disruption to your daily life.

Disadvantages of Central AC

There are some setbacks to central AC units you should consider, including:

• Must be professionally installed: Central AC units are complex systems requiring professional help, so never attempt a DIY installation.
• Requires ductwork: Considering these units require a system of ducts to operate, they’re not ideal for homes without existing ductwork.
• No zoning by default: You can’t set your central AC unit to cool individual rooms as you can with a window unit.

Other Cooling Options

While both central AC units and window units offer reliable cooling, depending on your needs and home layout, they may not always be the right choice for you. A ductless mini-split is an excellent alternative, providing both reliable, zoned cooling and heating without the need for ductwork. They are energy-efficient, operate quietly, and can cut back on monthly energy costs.

Call Dominion for Central AC Installation

Dominion Service Company is Brighton’s one-stop shop for exceptional AC installation. We provide repairs and maintenance on all brands and are a proud Lennox authorized dealer, meaning you’ll receive nothing but high-quality products. We will never take shortcuts and promise to deliver expert craftsmanship and complete customer satisfaction.

For upfront pricing and long-term cooling solutions, schedule AC services with Dominion Service Company today!

With average highs of 31 degrees Fahrenheit, Michigan winters are exceptionally cold, requiring a reliable heating system to get through the frigid weather. Two of the most popular heating options include furnaces and heat pumps. But which one is best for surviving the coldest days of the year in the Great Lake State?

In this blog post, the heating experts at Dominion Service Company explain the key differences between a heat pump and a furnace to help you determine which option is best for your needs.

How Furnaces Work

Furnaces are forced-air heating systems that distribute heat throughout your space via a series of ductwork. Using a variety of fuel sources — including gas, electricity, or propane — furnaces generate heat in the burner. The heat produced passes through a heat exchanger where air from your ductwork blows over it, becoming warm.

How Heat Pumps Work

By contrast, heat pumps do not generate heat at all. Instead, they transfer it from the outdoor air or the ground to your indoor space — even when temperatures are cold. Using a refrigeration cycle, the heat pump extracts heat from the ground or air and increases its temperature, drawing it inside to keep your indoor space warm.

During the summer, this process is reversed as the system extracts the heat from your indoor environment and transfers it outside, leaving your home cool and comfortable. Because of this, heat pumps boast exceptional energy efficiency and are capable of providing your home with year-round comfort.

Can a Heat Pump Perform in Michigan Winters?

One of the potential drawbacks of heat pumps is that older models may not operate as efficiently during freezing temperatures. Heat pumps are typically designed for moderate winter climates and may not be able to satisfy the needs of homeowners living in areas where temperatures frequently fall below 32 degrees, as is common in Michigan. However, there are ways that you can reap the energy efficiency benefits of a heat pump — even during the brutal winters in the Great Lakes State.

What Is a Hybrid Heat Pump?

The best way to strike a balance between energy efficiency and comfort is by having a hybrid heat pump system. This system combines the energy efficiency of a heat pump with the heating power of a furnace by having the two systems work together.

When outside temperatures fall below freezing, the furnace will kick on to keep your home warm and cozy on the coldest days of the year. During periods of more moderate temperatures, your heat pump will activate to ensure your home remains comfortable.

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Depend On Dominion Service Company for Heating Services

Whether you’re looking to install a furnace, heat pump, or hybrid system, Dominion Service Company has you covered. Our comfort specialists are deeply familiar with the local winter weather, allowing us to design and install a custom-tailored heating solution that satisfies the unique needs of the Michigan climate. Servicing all brands with upfront pricing and satisfaction guaranteed, you can count on us to deliver professional, price-conscious solutions that last the long term.

Schedule heating installation in Michigan by contacting our team to get started today.

When winter comes through each year, do you find yourself shivering even with the heat on in your older home? Do you dread leaving the covers and heading into a drafty living room or bathroom in the morning, feel the cold wafting off your front door before you even reach it, or face increasingly outrageous heating bills through the cold season? Today, we’ll look at why your home might feel so cold and a few of your options for keeping an older home affordably warm.

Why Do Older Homes Get So Cold?

To put it simply, the average old home will inevitably be less airtight than the average modern home. Even before accounting for countless improvements in building materials, weatherproofing techniques, and best practices, an older home sags, loosens, and eventually develops countless cracks and crevices. Some of these shortcomings can be resolved, but there will always be limits.

Upgrade Your Insulation

Many older homes were built before modern insulation practices became widespread — indeed, many homes lack insulation at all in some or all areas where you might expect it or have insulation so old and worn that it might as well not exist.

Even a small improvement on a poor base can have dramatic effects for your comfort and energy efficiency — you might not even need to replace existing insulation, instead being able to add to it.

Seal Leaks

One of the easiest and simplest ways to improve heating efficiency, even before you invest in proper insulation upgrades, is to track down and seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, baseboards, etc. You can use weatherstripping materials, spray insulation, or even just tape in some situations.

Pay close attention to anywhere in your home that you can feel a draft, hear the outdoors particularly well, smell smells from outside, or simply feel the cold air radiating from a surface or gap. You might be surprised how easily you can track your discomfort to a fairly small number of leaks in your home.

Upgrade Your Heating System

A modern heating system can be a dramatic improvement in your energy efficiency. Even just going from an older furnace to a newer furnace might have a substantial impact on your comfort and your monthly energy costs, but there are even better ways to save if you’re looking to invest in the future:

Heat pumps offer heating and cooling through a variation of the technology that powers traditional air conditioning. Where a normal air conditioner condenses heat inside into refrigerant and then moves that heat to the exterior unit where it can be vented, leaving cold air inside to be blown around, a heat pump can also reverse this process, condensing heat from the air outside and bringing it inside to be released.

Ductless mini-splits use the same technology as a heat pump but forgo a central indoor unit and air handler in favor of running refrigerant lines to multiple smaller interior units. Each of these can supply a room or section of your home with highly efficient and room-specific heating and cooling.

Under the right circumstances, heat pump technology can be as much as 5 times as efficient as a furnace because moving heat is far more efficient than creating it from gas or electricity. It’s a great way to control costs in an older building.

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Depend On Dominion To Keep Your Older Home Cozy

When you’re ready to make upgrades to keep your older home comfortable through the cold of winter, let the experienced HVAC technicians at Dominion Service Company assist you in the process. We’ll assess your home’s heating needs and help you find the right system or changes to stay cozy and comfortable without driving up your bills.

Contact our team today to learn more about your options or to schedule a visit anywhere in Southeast Michigan.

Your home’s indoor air quality is crucial to your health and comfort, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma. By maintaining your home environment, you can keep the air free and clear, and fresh even when the weather is dreary and the pollen counts are high and temperate even when it’s damp outside or bone dry. Here are five of the most effective ways to improve or maintain your home’s indoor air quality.

Open Windows Daily

Indoor air quality can be several times worse than the air quality outside, even accounting for pollen, uncontrolled humidity, and other factors. This is because many contaminants can make it into your home even with windows closed, but won’t exit, such as dust and pet dander or chemical residue from household products. Letting the outdoor air cycle through so you’re starting with a fresh slate each day can help substantially.

Use a HEPA Filter Vacuum

Vacuuming is of course an important part of home hygiene, removing dust and other contaminants from your carpet, but you can go a step further toward a healthier home by using a vacuum outfitted with a HEPA filter. Many harmful contaminants are simply too small for traditional filters; mold spores and other small particles require the more thorough filtration that only comes with a HEPA system.

Use Nontoxic Cleaning Products

One of the most insidious sources of household air quality issues are the very products you trust to clean your home. Many compounds leave behind volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can linger in the air of your home and have varying effects on other organic substances — including the ones that make up your body. Prolonged exposure to VOCs can have serious consequences for your health.

Control Humidity Levels

Humidity levels are an important part of keeping your home comfortable and minimizing energy costs (because excessively humid or dry air can be difficult to get to a comfortable temperature), but that’s only a small part of why you should care. Outside of the “sweet spot” of 30% to 50% humidity, problems can quickly develop. Dry air can lead to dry skin, irritated eyes and lungs, and easy transmission of viruses and bacteria. Excessively moist air can lead to fungal growth and lung irritation.

Improve IAQ With Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system is a crucial component of your home’s indoor air quality. With the right upkeep and a few additions to your system, the air inside your home can be as pure and healthy as possible:

• Change or clean filters often: Your filter traps contaminants that pass through your ventilation, keeping dust and other debris from recycling into your home and keeping it from damaging your system. When you let filters get too dirty, air either stops flowing entirely or finds other gaps to pass through, bypassing the filter.
• Whole-home air purifiers: Filters can’t remove everything from the air, capturing only the larger particles of dust and dander. For smaller threats such as bacteria, mold spores, viruses, etc., you’ll need an air purifier or another solution to kill, neutralize, or attract the material.
• UV light filtration: In much the same way that exposure to it directly can be a health concern, UV light is a great way to neutralize, kill, or break down a wide variety of harmful substances in your home’s air. Tucked away in your HVAC system, a UV light system will purify your home’s air without exposing you to any risk — like fresh sunlight without the drawbacks.

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Depend On Dominion for a Healthy Home

If you’re ready to take the next step toward healthier air in your home, let the experienced IAQ and HVAC technicians at Dominion Service Company help you find the right combination of habits and upgrades to ensure you can breathe easily.

Contact Dominion today to learn more about the indoor air quality services we offer or to schedule a visit.