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American Standard vs. Heil: Which Central Air Conditioning Unit Is Best?

August 18, 2023 by Jose Campos

Choosing the right central air conditioning unit for your home is crucial to ensure comfort and energy efficiency. With numerous options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which brand and model are best suited for your needs. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast two popular central air conditioning brands: American Standard and Heil. By examining their features, performance, and overall reputation, we aim to help homeowners make informed decisions. If you’re a homeowner in Maryville, IL, seeking professional advice and installation services, we recommend reaching out to our team at Morrison Plumbing for expert assistance.

Your Options & the Right Choice for Your Needs

Choosing between American Standard and Heil ultimately boils down to identifying your specific needs and priorities. Both brands offer exceptional quality and reliable performance, but what sets them apart are the features and factors that align with individual preferences and requirements. For those seeking the utmost in energy efficiency and advanced features, American Standard proves to be a top contender. This brand boasts a reputation for producing durable and low-maintenance units, providing homeowners with peace of mind and long-term savings. On the other hand, if budget considerations are paramount, Heil provides an attractive option. With their cost-effective pricing and efficient cooling capabilities, Heil units can be a suitable choice for those looking to balance performance and affordability. Ultimately, the best central air conditioning unit for your needs will depend on factors such as your budget, specific cooling requirements, and preferences for features and technology. It is crucial to assess your unique circumstances and consult with professionals to determine the optimal choice.

American Standard: The Reliable Choice

American Standard is a renowned brand that has been delivering high-quality central air conditioning units for decades. Morrison Plumbing can install this new AC unit for you. Here are some of the pros and cons of choosing an American Standard unit:

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: American Standard units are known for their energy-efficient performance, helping homeowners save on utility bills while reducing their environmental impact.
Reliability: American Standard boasts a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable units that require minimal maintenance.
Enhanced Comfort: These units offer advanced features such as variable-speed compressors and precise temperature control, ensuring consistent and comfortable cooling throughout your home.
Quiet Operation: American Standard units are designed with noise reduction in mind, allowing for peaceful and undisturbed indoor environments.
Extensive Warranty: The brand offers competitive warranties on their units, providing homeowners with peace of mind and protection for their investment.

Cons:

Higher Price Point: American Standard units tend to be priced higher compared to some other brands in the market. However, the superior quality and performance may justify the higher upfront cost in the long run.

A young female homeowner sitting on her couch with a handheld blue fan because it is too hot inside her Maryville, IL, home without a functioning air conditioner.

Heil: The Affordable Option

Heil is another reputable brand that offers a range of central air conditioning units at competitive prices. Here are the pros and cons of choosing a Heil unit:

Pros:

Cost-Effective: Heil units are generally more affordable compared to some other brands, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Dependable Performance: Heil units provide reliable cooling and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
Multiple Models: Heil offers a wide selection of models, allowing homeowners to choose the unit that best suits their specific cooling needs and budget.
Efficient Cooling: Heil units often come equipped with features like two-stage compressors and high SEER ratings, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing operating costs.

Cons:

Limited Availability: Heil units may not be as widely available as some other brands, which could make it slightly more challenging to find authorized dealers or service providers in certain areas.
Noise Levels: While Heil units generally operate quietly, some models may produce slightly more noise compared to higher-end brands like American Standard.

Both Options are Excellent Choices for Your Needs

In the realm of central air conditioning units, both American Standard and Heil have established themselves as reliable and respected brands. American Standard’s legacy of energy efficiency, reliability, and enhanced comfort features make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize top-of-the-line performance. Conversely, Heil’s cost-effective options and efficient cooling capabilities make it an attractive solution for budget-conscious consumers. As a homeowner or business owner, it is essential to carefully evaluate your cooling needs and consider factors such as budget, desired features, and energy efficiency. Consulting with our professionals at Morrison Plumbing in Maryville, IL, can provide valuable guidance and expertise in selecting the ideal central air conditioning unit for your specific requirements. Our knowledgeable team can help assess your needs, recommend suitable options from American Standard or Heil, and provide professional installation services. Whether you choose American Standard or Heil, you can rest assured that you are investing in a quality cooling solution that will enhance your comfort, energy savings, and overall satisfaction.

A young male technician works on an outdoor air conditioning unit in Maryville, IL.

Call Our Experts at Morrison Plumbing Today!

When it comes to choosing between American Standard and Heil central air conditioning units, both brands offer their unique advantages. American Standard stands out with its energy efficiency, reliability, enhanced comfort features, and comprehensive warranty coverage. On the other hand, Heil provides a cost-effective solution with dependable performance and efficient cooling options. To determine the best option for your specific needs and to ensure proper installation, it is highly recommended that homeowners in Maryville, IL, contact Morrison Plumbing. Our team of experts can assess your requirements, provide personalized advice, and offer professional installation services for either American Standard or Heil units.

Don’t let the sweltering summer heat compromise your comfort and increase your energy bills. Call Morrison Plumbing today at (618) 414-4051, and let our experienced professionals guide you toward the perfect central air conditioning solution for your home. Remember, investing in a high-quality central air conditioning unit not only keeps you cool and comfortable but also contributes to energy savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.

Replacing Your Home’s Vent Covers & Why It’s Important

May 9, 2023 by Jose Campos

Your home’s HVAC system is responsible for providing you with clean, comfortable air. But did you know that the vents in your home play an important role in the overall effectiveness of your HVAC system? Over time, your vent covers can become dirty, damaged, or outdated, which can negatively impact your indoor air quality and HVAC system performance. In this blog, we will discuss why replacing your home’s vent covers is important and provide tips and advice for doing so. You can trust our team at Morrison Plumbing to provide expert guidance in the care of your Granite City, IL, home.

Tip: Choose the Right Size

Before you purchase new vent covers, make sure you know the size of your existing vents. Most vent covers are available in standard sizes, so it should be easy to find a replacement that fits your existing vents. If you’re not sure what size you need, measure the width and height of your vent opening.

Tip: Choose the Right Type

There are several different types of vent covers available, including plastic, metal, and wood. When selecting a replacement, consider the overall look of your home, as well as the location of the vent. Plastic vent covers are the most affordable, while metal and wood vent covers can add a touch of elegance to your home.

Tip: Clean Your Existing Vents

Before installing your new vent covers, make sure you clean your existing vents. Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated. This will ensure that your new vent covers fit properly and that there are no obstructions in the airflow.

Tip: Remove Your Old Vent Covers

Most vent covers are attached with screws or clips, so get out your toolbox for the appropriate tools for the job. To remove your old vent covers, simply unscrew the screws or press the clips and lift the cover away from the vent. The process should be straightforward and simple to complete.

Tip: Install Your New Vent Covers

To install your new vent covers, simply align the cover with the vent and screw it in place or snap it into the clips. Make sure the cover is flush with the surface of the wall or floor. The installation process is easy and should only take a moment to secure your new vents in place and dispose of the old covers. For more helpful tips, you can contact our experts at Morrison Plumbing, and we’ll advise you on how to properly care for your home’s HVAC system and vents.

Benefit: Improved Indoor Air Quality

Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in your vent covers. When you turn on your HVAC system, these contaminants are blown into your home, which can negatively impact your indoor air quality. By replacing your vent covers, you can remove these contaminants and prevent them from being circulated throughout your home. This will drastically help improve the air quality in your living space, so you can breathe easier. For more information about your indoor air quality, contact our team at Morrison Plumbing.

Benefit: Increased Energy Efficiency

Damaged or outdated vent covers can reduce the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. When your vents are clogged with dust and debris, your system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home, which can increase your energy bills. By replacing your vent covers, you can improve the airflow in your home and reduce your energy consumption, so your system can operate more efficiently.

Benefit: Improved Aesthetics

Old, damaged, or outdated vent covers can detract from the overall appearance of your home. By replacing your vent covers, you can give your home a fresh, updated look. New vent covers can enhance the overall appearance of your home. This can be especially important if you’re trying to sell your home, as potential buyers will notice small details like vent covers.

Benefit: Extend the Life of Your HVAC System

Replacing your vent covers can help extend the life of your HVAC system. When your system has to work harder to circulate air due to clogged or dirty vents, it can put additional strain on the system, which can cause it to wear out more quickly. By replacing your vent covers, you can reduce the strain on your system and help it last longer, saving you time, money, and stress in the future.

Replacing your home’s vent covers is a small but important task that can have significant benefits. By improving your indoor air quality, increasing energy efficiency, enhancing aesthetics, and extending the life of your HVAC system, new vent covers can be a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. If you’re interested in replacing your vent covers, contact Morrison Plumbing, a trusted and reliable plumbing company serving Granite City, IL, and the surrounding areas. Our team of experts can help you choose the right vent covers for your home and ensure they are installed properly. Call our team today at (618) 408-1251.

The Importance of a Dehumidifier for Your Home This Spring

April 11, 2023 by Ali H.

The season of moisture is spring. There is a lot of wetness associated with this time of year, between the melting of winter snow and the arrival of spring rains. Some of that moisture will inevitably find its way into your home. Although this is a possibility in the form of a flooded basement, it is an extreme scenario. More than likely, the air in certain areas of your home will feel cool and clammy. If left unattended, this can lead to more serious issues, not the least of which is the growth of mold, mildew, or fungus. That’s where a dehumidifier comes in. Homeowners need a dehumidifier more than they think, and they often do not realize how much until they turn one on and experience the notable difference. Let Morrison Plumbing step in to advise you on all the benefits of this investment.

Creates a More Pleasant Living Space

A humid environment can become extremely uncomfortable to live in. When a dehumidifier reduces the extra humidity, it can make the air in your home cooler and more comfortable! With all the benefits a dehumidifier can provide to make a healthier home, it can be considered a necessity for you to keep the indoor air balanced and safe!

Removes musty odors
Controls growth of mildew and mold
Reduces condensation
Protects furniture and home electronics from moisture
Protects clothing, curtains, and bedsheets from mold
Reduces dust and restricts growth of dust mites

They are Versatile and Provide Benefits to Every Room

Dehumidifiers are incredibly versatile and will provide you with numerous benefits in any room. It’s up to you to decide where you need it most or if you want to enjoy the improved air quality throughout your whole house. Consult with our experts at Morrison Plumbing and we’ll provide expert advice and dehumidifier services to enhance the comfort of your home.

Finished Basement — A popular hangout is the basement rec room or game room. However, it is also the room most likely to have a musty odor and a clammy feel in the air, which can lead to mold and mildew growth behind baseboards and walls. It’s unpleasant to sit on damp furniture. Removing the humid air from the room will allow you to relax more comfortably.
Kitchen — Humidity is generated in the kitchen by filling the sink with hot water to do the dishes, or running the dishwasher, the refrigerator, and the stove. When visitors come over, the kitchen is a popular gathering place. A dehumidifier will remove all of the moisture from the air, keeping it comfortable and dry.
Bathroom — Exhaust fans do an excellent job of preventing condensation buildup in a bathroom, especially when taking a hot shower. But what if you don’t have a fan in your bathroom? A dehumidifier performs the same function, preventing mirror fogging and mildew growth from condensation on the walls and ceiling.
Living Room — If you have good windows, your living room is probably not a source of humidity. Older windows, on the other hand, will allow humidity into your home. To keep the room comfortable, keep a dehumidifier near the window.
Garage — Whether you use your garage to park your car, as a catch-all for yard equipment, or simply as a general storage space, you should protect what is stored there. A garage, unlike the rest of your house, is not typically insulated from the elements, making it a prime candidate for thick, wet air.

Helps with Water Leakage and Flood Cleanup

Flooding and water leakage are common household problems. Using a dehumidifier to help with cleanup can cut down on the time, hassle, and stress associated with dealing with excess water. A major advantage of a dehumidifier is that it can function similarly to a vacuum cleaner by absorbing excess water and moisture to speed up the drying process! A dehumidifier not only helps with the immediate effects of flooding, but it can also help with the long-term aftereffects by preventing mold and mildew from forming. If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall and/or natural disasters involving water, a dehumidifier will definitely come in handy!

Alleviates Allergy Symptoms

Dust mites, pollen, animal or pet dander, mold, and mildew are common seasonal spring allergy triggers. Mold and mildew thrive in humid environments and can cause sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, congestion, watery eyes, dryness, and itchiness in your eyes, nose, or throat. Using a dehumidifier to reduce humidity in the air can help reduce dust and other allergy triggers in the air. This produces clean indoor air in your home. So, no more sneezing and sniffling due to spring allergies! When you’re ready to start breathing better, contact our team at Morrison Plumbing today.

Reduces Pests and Infestations

Pests may be drawn to your home for a variety of reasons. Excess humidity or moisture, according to Pest Control Services Inc., is one of the most common causes of pest infestations. This is due to the fact that pests and termites draw water from their surroundings in order to survive. You may have noticed that more insects are found in wet areas or damp environments. By chewing through damp wood, insects, termites, and other pests can easily enter your home. Even small amounts of water from the air can assist these pests in surviving for extended periods of time. A dehumidifier can help control pests by removing excess moisture from the air and creating a more balanced environment. Remove pesky pests from your home and send them packing!

Can Lower Energy Costs

Running a dehumidifier in your home can also help you save money on energy! You don’t need to run your air conditioner as frequently because dehumidifiers work to reduce humidity in the air. Furthermore, your cooling equipment does not require more energy to maintain the desired temperature level in your home. Morrison Plumbing’s dehumidifiers are energy efficient, so they use less energy while operating, saving you even more money! A dehumidifier from Morrison Plumbing is an excellent way to save money over time!

When you’re ready to make your home healthier and more comfortable for your family, call Morrison Plumbing at (618) 408-1597 to schedule a consultation and we’ll get the process started for improving the air quality of your home in Belleville, IL. Call today!

How Often Should You Clean Your Home’s Air Ducts?

April 11, 2023 by Ali H.

Every day, the air ducts in your home’s HVAC system circulate an incredible amount of air…and it carries all kinds of debris with it, including dust, dander, hair, spiderwebs, mites, and even microbes and mold spores. How often should you clean your air ducts, given that so much of that debris ends up in the ductwork? Let Morrison Plumbing give you our professional advice on this matter.

How Often to Clean Your Air Ducts

Air ducts do not have to be cleaned on a strictly regular basis. According to the EPA, you should clean your air ducts whenever necessary. Reasons for air duct cleaning include visible mold or dirt in the system, rodents or insects in the ducts, and residents living in the home who struggle with allergies or illnesses.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), a trade group, supports cleaning air ducts as needed. However, the NADCA recommends that homeowners have their air ducts inspected once a year to ensure that they are in good working order.

You can certainly clean your air ducts yourself, but homeowners cannot see beyond the first few feet of ductwork. A video inspection by an air duct cleaning company is required to see all the way into the ductwork, and a professional company will have more advanced tools to provide a more thorough cleaning service. Something to consider when your air ducts need to be cleaned.

*Tip: Even though air ducts do not need to be cleaned on a regular basis, there are no disadvantages to having your ducts cleaned on a regular basis.

When Air Ducts Need to be Cleaned

The following are primary conditions that require your air ducts should be cleaned:

Visible mold growth
Excessive dust inside the air ducts
Rodents and/or insects
Residents suffering from allergies, asthma, or other illnesses

Secondary conditions include:

Smokers in the home
Shedding pets with a lot of hair or dander
Water contamination in the air ducts
Damage to the ducts
Recent renovation, particularly drywall work.

*Tip: Dust in the first few feet of the return air duct does not always indicate that the ducts need to be cleaned professionally. Return ducts are dirtier because they draw room air back into the system. They are cleanable with a vacuum and an extension.

Benefits of Clean Air Ducts

The main advantage of having your home’s air ducts cleaned is that mold growth is eliminated. Even under normal conditions, contaminated air ducts can become a breeding ground for microbe growth. Toxigenic mold, also known as mycotoxins, can be dangerous to residents. Mold spores are distributed throughout the home whenever the HVAC system pushes air through the ductwork.

Mold and mildew are likely to have developed if water entered the ductwork and the moisture was not immediately dried up. As a result, cleaning the ducts after an unexpected event is a good idea. If your home has recently undergone a major renovation, especially drywall work or floor sanding, it’s also a good idea to have the ducts cleaned before turning on the HVAC.

Clean air ducts also mean a cleaner living environment, a drastic reduction of allergens and irritants, the removal of unpleasant odors, and an improvement in airflow and air quality. You will also enjoy an increase in energy efficiency, which means a decrease in your monthly energy bills.

Do It Yourself vs. Professional Air Duct Cleaning

DIY Duct Cleaning

$50-$100
End sections of return & supply ducts cleaned
Debris is moved toward vents
Debris in ductwork partially removed

Professional Duct Cleaning

$450-$1,000
Complete ductwork cleaning
Debris moved toward the HVAC unit
Debris in ductwork completely removed

Only a professional duct cleaning company can perform full system-wide air duct cleaning. Commercial machines are not available to homeowners and cannot be replicated with consumer-grade vacuums.

DIY duct cleaning can clean some ductwork, primarily the ends. A vacuum with an extension can reach the ends of the return and supply ducts by 2 to 4 feet. Registers (grilles or vents) should also be vacuumed.

There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach. It’s up to you to decide what your home needs, but if you want a professional opinion, you can always reach out to our experts at Morrison Plumbing. Contact us today for a consultation!

FAQs

What happens if you don’t clean your air ducts?

Mold spores will continue to grow and be distributed throughout the house with each HVAC cycle if mold is growing in the air ducts. Other non-microbial debris poses less of a health risk.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of duct cleaning?

The benefits of duct cleaning include the removal of all debris from the ductwork system, not just the last few feet that a homeowner can remove with a vacuum. There are no drawbacks to the service other than the cost of duct cleaning.

Why does my house become so dusty and how can I fight it?

Dust accumulates naturally, whether you live in your house or not, but it’s important to combat the dust as often as you can to keep your living space clean. By keeping your home less dusty, you can reduce or eliminate the need for air duct cleaning. Close all windows and doors. Make use of doormats. Vacuum and damp mop floors on a regular basis. Keep your pets clean and groomed. Replace the HVAC filter on a regular basis.

When you want professional duct cleaning or just a professional opinion on the matter, call Morrison Plumbing at (618) 262-0446. We’ll be happy to assist you and improve the quality and comfort of your home in Caseyville, IL.

The Benefits of Humidifiers vs. Dehumidifiers

October 7, 2022 by Ali H.

If you’re a homeowner, you should know about Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers because both devices can improve the overall air quality of the space in your home! Depending on what you need, these devices either increase or decrease the humidity in the air. Humidity basically refers to the concentration of water vapor which is in the air and controlling indoor humidity is very important for the health of your family and your home. According to popular research, the recommended humidity level that is considered ideal for your home should be between 40%-60%. Reach out to Morrison Plumbing with your questions.

What is a Humidifier?

You may have questions about what a humidifier is and what it does. A humidifier is a unit that consistently adds moisture back into the air as mist, which improves the overall indoor air quality of your home. The dry air in your space can lead to several issues for your health and home and it is most common during winter months when we turn on our furnaces. So, this winter, consider investing in a humidifier for your home and you’ll be able to witness the improvement firsthand.

What is a Dehumidifier?

As you can probably tell from the name, a dehumidifier performs the exact opposite function as a humidifier. Instead of increasing the moisture in the air, a dehumidifier decreases the humidity in the air for the damp rooms in your house, like the basement. This is to prevent mold, mildew, and musty odors by extracting water from the air. The service this device provides is important because too much humidity can have a negative impact on your health by aggravating asthma symptoms or even allergies. Investing in a dehumidifier would also be worthwhile for helping to manage water leakage or flooding in damp spaces.

Benefits of a Humidifier

If you are considering improving the air quality of your home, a humidifier would be a great investment. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Morrison Plumbing for expert advice and service. There are many helpful benefits of having a humidifier in your home.

Perfect for Dry Spaces
Improves Sleep
Decreases Congestion
Helps Manage Asthma
Helps Alleviate Dry Eyes, Throat, Skin
Reduces Pet Dander and Allergens
Keeps House Plants Healthier
Maintains Wooden Furniture & Floors

Benefits of a Dehumidifier

There are also numerous benefits of having a dehumidifier in your home, especially for the rooms that are colder and damper. Consider the advantages of investing in this device for your basement or laundry room. Our experts can offer professional advice or service for your unit should you ever need assistance.

Perfect for Damp Spaces
Decreases Musty Odors
Prevents Mold
Prevents Mildew
Reduces Unwanted Pests
Helps Manage Prolonged Allergies
Helps Manage Flooding & Water Leakage

When you want to invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier for your home or your current device needs professional maintenance, please contact Morrison Plumbing for all your service needs! Call today at (618) 408-1624.