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Without fail, air conditioning issues always seem to happen at the worst times — like on the hottest day of the year or right when you plan on having guests over. That’s because you can’t just turn your AC on high after a long winter or mild spring and expect it to run flawlessly. These units are complex and just like a lot of other equipment in your home, they need routine, seasonal maintenance.

Have you been putting it off? Our goal is to help you see why that’s a bad idea. Here are a couple of reasons why your AC system needs regular maintenance and a few signs that you’re overdue for a repair or replacement.

1. Prevent a dreaded breakdown
   This is the worst case scenario, but it’s also not uncommon. The main reason to call a pro each year is to avoid a breakdown right when you need your system running the most. During their routine visit, they’ll clean the entire system, check for any faulty parts, look at the electrical and compressor systems, and fine tune any components that need it. An expert will make sure everything will run smoothly in the upcoming season without any unwanted surprises.
2. Save on repair bills
   Even if your system isn’t quite on the brink of a breakdown, it may have underlying issues that are preventing it from running properly — even if it isn’t that obvious. By putting off a maintenance check, you’re only allowing those issues to continue doing harm to your system. Why a repair may be needed after the annual inspection, it will likely be a lot cheaper than if you let it go for another couple of years. Why wait? 
3. Prolong its lifespan
   Everyone wants their AC unit to keep running as long as possible — replacements are expensive! A professional tune-up every year is the simplest way to prolong your system’s lifespan. By inspecting and fixing any issues in regular intervals, you can prevent one part of the system impacting the others and taking its toll on the whole unit.Fun fact: units that are regularly maintained can last up to 15 years without a replacement.

    

4. Boost your energy efficiency
   Running your system in the spring and summer obviously isn’t free. But with those bills being higher than ever, anything you can do to keep them low without sacrificing your comfort is worth it, right? With the cleaning and repairs of a routine maintenance visit, your system can run more efficiently, reducing electricity consumption and saving you up to a couple of hundreds of dollars a year depending on the age of your unit.

Thinking it may be time for a professional checkup? If we haven’t convinced you to make the call yet, here are some red flags that let you know for sure.

• Hot spots. Your AC should be cooling evenly throughout your home. If some areas are warmer or cooler than others, there may be an issue with one of the system’s components.
• Rising Energy Bills. We know everything is on the rise right now, but keeping an eye on your bill month to month may help you notice some increases that don’t quite make sense in relation to your usage. This is where even just a good clean can make a huge difference.
• Thermostat Issues. As your AC command center, if your thermostat isn’t communicating properly with your unit then it may be a system issue.
• Little or Warm Air. If your vents are blowing warm air or no air at all, you definitely have a problem that a professional can help address.
• Loud Noises or Strange Odors. When your AC system is running properly, neither of these things should be happening.
• Freon or Water Leaks Around the Unit. Moisture leaking in or around your system is likely an indication of a refrigerant leak. Freon is poisonous, so contact a pro immediately.

To learn more about how to keep your energy bills as low as possible and your family as comfortable as possible this summer, the experts at Madsen Inc. are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your annual AC maintenance check today.

The backyard is probably one of the most versatile spaces of a home. It offers all kinds of additional livable square footage for entertaining or relaxing that a lot of homeowners simply don’t take advantage of. Not to mention, many improvements to your outdoor space can boost your home’s value big time.

So instead of spending this summer cooped up inside, here are six outdoor projects to turn your yard into the ultimate hub of your home.

1. Fire Pit
   The best thing about an outdoor firepit is that it makes being outside more comfortable when the chilly seasons arrive, which means you can spend more time enjoying your backyard. Building a firepit yourself can be a fun and rewarding project, but if you’re not interested in DIY, installing a $6,000 – $8,000 custom fire pit will on average increase your home’s ROI by 60-70%. In addition to all the great smores and good times you’ll get out of it, that sounds worth it to us!

   If you don’t have the space to build a permanent structure, a portable fire pit set up can certainly do the trick! That way you can bring it out and put it away whenever those chilly nights call for some long fireside snuggles.

2. A Patio or Deck
   Adding a patio or deck off the back of your home literally creates an extension of it. It will increase your livable outdoor space while adding the perfect canvas for a boatload of other great outdoor additions as well — from an outdoor bar, grill, lounge chairs, sound system, and even a whole kitchen (which we’ll touch on next). Tiered or multi-level decks are also very popular right now, adding interest and more value to your backyard experience.

   But before you start planning the first BBQ, there’s a few things you’ll have to do first when adding a deck. Check with your local ordinances to see what is required by the municipality’s code to build a deck. And then hire a professional engineer to ensure the joists are properly spaced and there are enough footings.

3. Outdoor Kitchen
   We don’t know about you, but it seems pretty unfair that while everyone else is out enjoying the sunshine, the chef of the party is stuck inside preparing the food. The surging popularity of outdoor kitchens is allowing homeowners to bring the best parts of their home outside! Many homeowners are choosing to make their spaces stand out with built-in grills and L-shaped islands with sinks and ice chests. Prepping areas and undercounter refrigerators are popular, as well as roofs with ceiling fans or heaters to keep things comfortable throughout any season. Truly functional outdoor kitchens can help a home truly stand out with up to a 200% ROI — and an even higher ROE (return on enjoyment).

If you’re not interested in a full kitchen, consider a wood-fire pizza oven, built-in grill with workspace, or even a patio bar. When you can spend more time outside than inside cooking, everyone wins.

1. Privacy/Shade Structures
   If you have a large backyard without a lot of trees or shaded areas, it’s hard to enjoy it on those hot summer days. A pergola is a great addition to any open space with multiple additions that can increase your comfort — and your home’s value — even more. Install electrical outlets to add lights or even a roof with ceiling fan to improve functionality. Throw in a rug, some cushioned furniture, and container planting to create the perfect space for any mood. Kick back with a good book, host a game night, enjoy a delicious meal — any of your favorite indoor activities can move outside!
2. Privacy Fencing
   Privacy is becoming more and more important to a lot of homeowners. They want to feel just as comfortable outside as they do inside closed doors. Homes that can offer more seclusion and solitude will stand out from others on the market and make using your backyard that much more enjoyable. If you don’t have the budget to put up a full-height fence, consider using greenery. Trellises, potted plants, or hedges can add a colorful backdrop that obstructs views of neighbors or the street. You can also try panels or sunscreens. The more private your outdoor space is, the more it will feel like your own personal retreat — and you deserve that!
3. A Pool
   We know, we know — a pool is a major investment. But the added value has multiple layers. While it may not necessarily recover as much as you spend, it does provide a huge selling point if you ever sell your home. This is different from in the past where many home buyers wouldn’t buy a property with a pool. But now, as many people have adjusted to working and spending more time at home, the perspective has changed, and there’s a big demand. This one really comes down to whether it’s something your family will benefit from as long as you’re living in your home. If you can enjoy it for many years and make your home that much more desirable when it is time to sell, then it can definitely be worth it.

   If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to turn your home’s outdoor space into another awesome living space, or simply upgrade your exterior surroundings, contact the home experts at Madsen today.

Ah, spring is in the air — and so is all the dust and clutter that winter left behind. While everyone knows it’s the season of fresh starts and deep cleaning, there are a couple of areas that often get forgotten in the process. While many of the 11 spots we mention in this list may seem fairly minor or obvious, we bet there’s a good chance you wouldn’t have thought of it without us. You’re welcome.

1. Take Inventory of Cleaning Supplies
   First things, first — you can’t start cleaning without the right supplies! There’s no point in trying to freshen up your home with old or dirty equipment. Make sure you have the appropriate solutions and disinfectants for the areas you’re cleaning, and swap out any old brooms or brush heads. Your cleaning closet needs some rejuvenation every now and then just as much as your home does!

2. Clean Your Toaster Tray
   We know dumping crumbs from the toaster tray in the trash is probably something you do frequently, but when’s the last time you gave it a good scrub? Take the tray out and give it a deep soak in warm, soapy water. Or try an agent like Lime-A-Way for the pesky, stuck on grease and food remnants. The same applies to any and all small appliances in the kitchen. A thorough clean every now and then is your best chance of keeping unwanted pests and bugs from joining you in the kitchen now that your windows are open again!

3. Clear Your Drains
   It may not be a mess you can see, but thanks to soap, water, and grime flowing through your drain every day, there’s going to be build up. But before you grab bleach or ammonia that can cause erosion over time, try a more natural solution. Pour 1⁄2 cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar down the drain separately and then run some hot water to rinse. By giving your sink pipes and garbage disposal a deep clean every so often, you can prevent bigger clogs and issues, while also eliminating any foul smells that come along with it.

4. Toss Old Beauty Products
   We’re guessing there’s a good chance your makeup drawer or bags have some items in there older than 3-6 months. It happens to the best of us. But this is the shelf life of most cream or gel-based makeup products — so if you do, it’s time to say goodbye. Any girl knows that makeup can pile up quickly, so start by sorting through what you use on a daily basis, for special occasions, and your back up supply. Organize them into categories, like hair, eyes, lips, etc. The better you can see what you have, the better you can stay on top of regular audits. Oh, and either use that free sample, or throw it out now.

5. Dump Your Junk Mail
   In today’s highly digital/paperless world, somehow we all still end up with a ton of traditional junk mail. Whether you keep forgetting to cancel that subscription or it’s those never-ending donation requests, take a minute to weed through everything you’ve accumulated before tossing away the trash or filing things you want to keep. Empty your recycling bin and make an effort to cancel or update preferences to anything you don’t want to receive anymore wherever you can. And if anything is being tossed with any personal info on it like bills or credit card offers, make sure you put them through the shredder first. 

6. Sort Desk Drawers & Electronics
   Desk drawers are notorious for becoming a black hole to all things random. But the out of sight, out of mind philosophy is never good in this case — especially when it means packets of ketchup sitting in there for months. Rummage through each of these drawers to determine what’s still useful and what needs to go. For the items that stay, sort them by type and try utilizing a drawer organizer to keep everything in place and in sight.

   For electronics — before tossing old chargers and cords, read hup on local guidance for e-waste to make sure you’re disposing properly. And consider different donations or mail-back programs that can put those old items to use again in another home.

7. Deep Clean Your Washer and Dryer
   Yep, even your washer needs a good wash every now and then too. Run a cycle using white vinegar and baking soda. A store-bought, pre-mixed cleaner works just as well too. And don’t forget the lint filter. You should be cleaning this out after every load, but the areas within the vents need attention too to ensure built-up debris doesn’t become a fire hazard. Use a duct brush or vacuum to clear out all the lint that may be trapped within the ventilation units.

8. Rotate Your Mattress
   Don’t wait until you have trouble sleeping to give your mattress a turn. Even when only one person is using a bed, it can still get lumpy or uneven over time — especially if you often sleep on the same side. You may notice some sagging in areas simply by looking, or it may be a little less obvious, but it doesn’t hurt to switch it up. Strip the bedding and either rotate the mattress so the foot becomes the head or flip the mattress over so the bottom becomes the top (you get the idea). Newer mattress designs should eliminate the need to flip, so make your own assessment. 

9. Trash Old Spices & Canned Goods
   Sure, the best thing about non-perishables is how long they last — but there is a limit (ironic, we know). Go through all your spices and canned goods to check expiration dates. Canned meats and veggies can last up to 2-5 years, but high-acid, canned fruits and tomatoes only last 12-18 months. Try using a first-in, first-out rule to keep all canned items in your pantry at their peak quality.

10. Get Underneath Area Rugs & Furniture
    Usually when we run a vacuum through the house, we tend to stick to those easy-to-reach spots — ya know, the ones that don’t require you to bend over backwards. But because of that same reason, those spots need extra love this time of year. It’s time to really put that vacuum hose and/or those muscles to work. Move furniture and roll up rugs and rug pads to clean underneath. And put in some extra effort to reach under the bed or larger furniture pieces where dust goes to hide.

11. Remove Wall/Floors for Scuffs
    Check the walls and floors for any marks caused by shoes, furniture, or toys. This includes underneath islands or bars too. Use a damp, soft cloth with a little dish soap (a Magic Eraser works great too) to remove any scuffs and dab some touch up paint on any dings or scrapes. It’s a little effort for a much cleaner look.

For more ways to ensure your home is as clean, healthy, and comfortable as possible this Spring, contact the experts at Madsen today.

We all love the extra daylight and sunshine that springtime brings. But is your heating and cooling system prepared to go from one extreme to the other this year? We don’t expect your HVAC to always be top of mind from season to season. But for us, it is. So we’ve compiled all the most common questions you’ll want answered about your cooling system before temperatures really start rising.

• How often do air filters need to be changed?
  This is one of those “it depends” There are two main types of filters, both of which are disposable. If you have a cheaper,  fiberglass air filter, we’d recommend every 30 days. If you have pleated filters, which are typically more expensive, you should be good with every 90 days. Media or CleanEffects filters can last a little longer, only needing to be replaced about once a year.  It will also depend on your usage — the more often you use your system, the less you should put off swapping your filters out.

• What are the advantages of high-efficiency air filters?
  While not 100% necessary, high-efficiency filters can do wonders for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Proper air filtration is crucial to the health of your family — and your unit too. By preventing dust and dirt from building up in your system, air filters help keep your air clean and your system running efficiently.

  High-efficiency air filters only improve that process with the ability to trap nearly 100 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns (aka very, very small). Regardless of what you choose, changing them regularly is still a must.

• How long does HVAC equipment last?
  The average HVAC system lasts 10-15 years. But the more time that passes, the less efficient your unit will become. In fact, the minimum SEER for any ACs manufactured now is 13, despite many systems exceeding that. Err on the side of caution and start looking at new options around the 10-year mark. Even if there are no major issues or red flags at the time, a more modern system will help you save on your energy bills. They also typically come with a 10-year warranty, which means you’ll be set for a while.
• How do I know when it’s time for an AC replacement?
  Speaking of replacement, there are some signs that will tell you when it’s definitely time to say goodbye — like if the temperature of the air coming from your vents isn’t strong enough, or it’s not the right temperature. Also, if you hear weird sounds like rattling, scraping, or screeching, or you notice excess moisture or leaking from your unit. If your bills have significantly increased but your usage hasn’t, that’s another good indication that it’s time for a new unit.
• How often should I have my air conditioning unit serviced?
  As a general rule of thumb, make it an annual thing. The longer you put it off, the less effectively your unit will run. And that will only speed up its deterioration and shorten its overall lifespan. By scheduling that routine maintenance each year, you’ll not only save on energy bills, but also any major repairs that tend to result from negligence.

• What are the benefits of a programmable thermostat?
  A programmable thermostat isn’t just another modern tech gimmick; it can save you a lot on your energy bills by allowing you to better control your heating and cooling use from anywhere. Instead of having the cold air pumping all day when no one’s home, you can set a timer to raise the temperature when you’re gone and lower it prior to your arrival. A smart thermostat will make sure you’re saving energy, even if you forget.

• Why are heat pumps more efficient?
  The reason heat pumps are one of the most energy efficient HVAC systems out there is because they don’t burn fuel to provide heat. Instead, they transfer heat energy from one source to another. This is why they function as both a heating and cooling system — making it as simple as the flip of a switch to go from winter to summer mode. As a result, you can minimize the amount of systems in your home that need repairs, maintenance, and replacements too.

• How can I improve the air quality in my home?
  The best way to improve air quality is to eliminate unwanted air from coming in. And the best way to do that is to seal your duct system. After that, you can either clean your existing filtration system or look into installing a new, more efficient one.

• What should I set my thermostat to in the spring and summer?
  When temperatures rise outside, it’s tempting to blast the cold inside, but finding the right balance between comfort and self-control will pay off big time. We recommend setting your thermostat to 75 degrees, or 72 at the lowest, with your fan set to AUTO, instead of ON. Each degree below 75 will cause your energy bill to go up 3-5%!
• What are some ways I could keep my home cool more efficiently/lower energy costs?
  You have a lot of options! For one, you can swap your current AC unit for a newer, more efficient one. While it may be a larger initial investment, it will have a big impact on energy bills and comfort in the long run. If you’re not quite there yet, you can set your thermostat to the predetermined temperatures listed above.

  Another helpful hack is to make sure your vents aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains. This will help air flow more evenly throughout your home. And if it’s a room you rarely use, shut the vents so you can direct the air to cool the areas of your home you spent more time in.

  Ceiling fans are another great way to cool down a room without using a lot of energy. If you don’t have them, consider installing them in bedrooms and living areas. If you do have them, use them. The U.S. The Department of Energy reports that just one ceiling fan will allow you to turn up the thermostat as much as four degrees without sacrificing comfort.

  And as always, remember to schedule regular maintenance from a professional to keep all units running their best.

• What can I do if my system doesn’t work well in certain rooms?
  Variation from room to room is fairly normal, but significant differences in distribution can be a sign of air filtration issues or improperly designed ducts. If you’re having issues, contact our professionals to come take a look.

As you prepare for the warmer weather this spring, don’t forget about your cooling system! Contact our experts at Madsen with any questions you may have to help keep your home comfortable all season long.

Spoiler Alert: Winter is already here. But it’s never too late to take measures to protect your home from cold, harsh conditions — until it is. Let’s not wait until the next big snowstorm to find out.

Brutal winter weather can cause damage to both the outside and inside of your home. Whether it’s a pesky air draft or a burst pipe, damage caused from sub-freezing temperatures can be inconveniently expensive. If you haven’t already, it’s important to prepare your home — even now. Check out our winter home maintenance checklist to keep your home safe and warm from the worst winter may still have in store.

1. Focus on Your Heating System

One of the most obvious home necessities during the winter is heat, which makes now a great time to maintain or upgrade your heating system. Your home should be the place you feel most comfortable, and freezing temperatures shouldn’t change that.

By hiring a professional like Madsen to inspect your boiler, furnace, and HVAC system, you can make sure the need for repairs, cleanings, or upgrades can be taken care of to make sure your system is running as efficiently and safely as possible. Not only will it help ensure you’re nice and warm the rest of winter, but it will also save you from costly maintenance of bigger problems that may occur if the small things go ignored.

2. Check For Air Leaks

As temperatures drop from day to day, there are certain areas more susceptible to heat loss. Unwelcomed drafts can sneak into your home through door frames, windows, or other small gaps in your foundation. We often crank the heat when we feel a draft, which increases our energy bill without fixing the root of the problem. Instead, try to find the source of the draft and use a more affordable, DIY solution.

Air leaks can be easily stopped by:

–       Putting weatherstrips or caulking around vulnerable areas

–       Insulating windows with film

–       Adding insulation in the attic to prevent ceiling heat loss

–       Covering the underside of door frames with thick towels to close the cracks

3. Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can become burst pipes that negatively affect your entire home. It may result in water and structural damage, unsafe conditions (if outside), and a hefty repair bill. Frozen pipes aren’t uncommon in areas of the home or yard that aren’t getting a lot of use in the winter (swimming pool supply lines, hose bibs, water sprinkler lines, unheated basement/attic pipes, etc.) or even those with little or no insulation in exterior walls, so be sure to stay on top of your taps.

Signs of a frozen pipe include a lack of running water, visible frost on any exposed water pipes, sections of drywall or ceilings looking damp, or strange odors coming from the faucet or drain. You can prevent frozen pipes by applying electrical heating tape to exposed pipes, letting your faucets drip with cold water all day, or just keeping the garage door closed to keep cold air out of the house and away from the plumbing.

4. Be Storm-Ready

Snowstorms can be pretty unpredictable — let’s face it, the weatherman isn’t always right. So while you may always be on top of the weather radar, it’s smart to ensure your house is prepared for anything at any time by checking off essential to-do’s like:

–       Get an emergency kit with water, canned goods, and flashlights

–       Have snow shovels or blowers to make clearing your driveway after a blizzard easier

–       Trim tree branches to help you avoid any structural damage from high winds

–       Invest in a portable generator in case of a long-lasting power outage

–       Waterproof your home by installing a sump pump into the basement and routing gutters away from your home

5. Maintain the Water Heater

There’s nothing quite like a hot shower or warm bath when it’s freezing outside. But there’s nothing worse than hopping in and getting nothing but ice-cold water.

Prevent hot water loss by servicing your water heater. Check the heater’s temperature, test the pressure valve, and inspect the anode rod. You can also add insulation to the pipes and tanks too as an added safeguard. If you don’t feel comfortable taking these tasks on yourself, consider calling a professional to help do it for you.

6. When in Doubt, Call the Pros

Winter maintenance isn’t always the easiest. And even with a helpful guide like this, you may not know everything you should be looking for. If you need help making sure your home is as safe and warm as it should be this winter, contact Madsen Inc. today.