Look For Same Day Service(618) 408-1446

Morrison | Plumbing Heating Air Electrical

Professional Care That's Always There

HVAC

How Can a Mini-Split System Save You Money?

by

The growing popularity of mini-split systems among Madison County residents can be associated with their budget-friendly and energy-efficient solutions for maintaining comfortable temperatures in homes and offices. Here at Morrison Plumbing, we’ve personally witnessed the positive transformation our mini-split installations bring to homeowners. If you’re considering an HVAC system upgrade and find yourself intrigued by the possibility of saving costs with a mini-split system, we have put together a detailed list of insights. These insights detail the various ways in which this system can substantially reduce your energy expenses and contribute to your long-term financial well-being.

Zoned Heating and Cooling

One of the standout advantages of a mini-split system is its ability to deliver zoned heating and cooling. Unlike conventional central HVAC setups that fill an entire home with temperature control, whether each room truly needs it or not, mini-split systems take a smarter approach. They come with separate units for every individual room or zone. This clever design allows you to fine-tune the temperature independently in different parts of your space, preventing energy from going to waste in unoccupied areas. By exclusively heating or cooling the rooms that are actively being used, you’ll see a significant drop in your energy usage, translating to noteworthy savings on your utility bills.

Energy Efficiency

Another compelling advantage of opting for mini-split systems is their focus on energy efficiency. These systems are purposefully engineered to incorporate cutting-edge technologies, including inverter-driven compressors. These compressors possess the resourceful ability to control their speed following specific cooling or heating requirements. This functionality leads to a noticeable reduction in energy consumption compared to systems that constantly cycle on and off. Additionally, mini-split units often come equipped with features such as programmable timers and smart thermostats. This addition allows you to establish temperature schedules that correspond with your daily routines. Careful control plays a pivotal role in curbing unnecessary energy usage during periods when you’re away from home.

Technician installing a mini-split system inside the home of a Belleville, IL resident.

Ductless Design

You may notice that conventional HVAC systems heavily depend on ductwork; mini-split systems offer a revolutionary ductless approach. Traditional ducts often culminate in energy inefficiencies due to leaks and inadequate insulation. Mini-splits sidestep these issues by channeling conditioned air directly into the designated space, bypassing the necessity for intricate duct networks. This innovative ductless system enhances the system’s overall energy efficiency and guarantees the precise delivery of heated or cooled air. The result is a seamlessly controlled indoor climate that aligns with both sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Embracing mini-split systems signifies a step towards improved energy usage and a more environmentally conscious cooling and heating solution.

Reduced Installation and Maintenance Costs

Setting up a central HVAC system can quickly become time-consuming and costly, mainly due to the intricate ductwork involved and the particular details of the installation procedure. Mini-split systems from Morrison Plumbing, on the other hand, provide a simpler installation process. In many cases, a small hole for the conduit linking the indoor and outdoor units is all that’s needed. This efficient installation cuts down on time and trims labor expenses. Mini-split systems usually comprise fewer components requiring upkeep, resulting in fewer and less pricey maintenance sessions. This integration of quick installation and reduced maintenance needs adds up to a more economical and hassle-free heating and cooling solution. 

Technician using screwdriver providing maintenance to a mini-split system inside the home of a Belleville, IL resident.

Long-Term Investment

While the initial expense of installing a mini-split system might appear slightly more costly in comparison to traditional systems, the potential for long-term savings quickly tips the scales in its favor. The beauty of this investment lies in its ability to produce substantial savings over time. Thanks to the enhanced energy efficiency that mini splits bring to the table, you’re able to enjoy consistently lower energy bills as the years roll by. Beyond the immediate cost, you’re effectively making an investment in sustained economic benefit, where your ongoing energy savings add up to a sizeable advantage. Embracing a mini-split system provides you with not only a comfortable indoor climate but also a financially sound choice that aligns with your financial well-being.

Contact Morrison Plumbing

From the information shared above, it’s apparent that a mini-split system offers numerous avenues for saving money, including zoned heating, and cooling, energy efficiency, and ductless design that lowers installation and maintenance costs. If the idea of transforming your home into an energy-efficient space and trimming utility expenses resonates with you, exploring the perks of a mini-split system is a wise step. By embracing this upgrade, you can enjoy a comfortable living space and its financial advantages. At Morrison Plumbing, we’re here to assist you with mini-split installation, repair, or maintenance services. Our team of technicians is committed to addressing any questions or concerns you might have about the mini-split system. Contact us and discover more about how a mini-split system can enhance your Belleville, IL home.

How To Know When Your AC Filter Needs Replacing 

by

Maintaining clean and efficient air conditioning is essential for a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. One crucial aspect of AC maintenance is regularly replacing the air filter. Over time, air filters become dirty and clogged, hindering the system’s performance and potentially leading to issues. In this blog post, Morrison Plumbing, a trusted HVAC service provider in Collinsville, IL, will guide you through the signs that indicate your AC filter needs replacing. By recognizing these indicators, you can ensure proper airflow, energy efficiency, and improved air quality in your home.

Reduced Airflow

One of the most apparent signs that your AC filter needs replacing is reduced airflow from your vents. If you notice weak airflow or a lack of cool air circulating throughout your home, it may be due to a clogged filter. As the filter accumulates dust, dirt, and debris, it obstructs the airflow, causing reduced efficiency in your AC system. Replacing the filter can help restore proper airflow and enhance the cooling capacity of your air conditioner. If you notice reduced airflow and you think there might be another problem, consult with our AC experts at Morrison Plumbing and take advantage of our quality AC maintenance services.

Increased Energy Consumption

A dirty and clogged air filter forces your AC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This extra strain on the system leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your energy costs without a significant change in usage, a dirty filter might be the culprit. By regularly replacing the filter, you can optimize the energy efficiency of your air conditioner and save on your monthly bills.

Dust Buildup

Take a close look at the surfaces in your home, especially near the vents. If you notice excessive dust buildup on furniture, countertops, or shelves, it may indicate a dirty air filter. A clogged filter fails to capture dust and other particles effectively, allowing them to circulate and settle on surfaces. By replacing the filter regularly, you can reduce dust accumulation and increase the overall cleanliness of your home. Don’t hesitate to improve the air quality of your home.

Allergy or Respiratory Issues

A neglected air filter can worsen indoor air quality, triggering allergies or respiratory issues. As the filter becomes clogged, it fails to capture allergens, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles effectively. This can lead to increased allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes. If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained allergy or respiratory discomfort, it’s worth checking the condition of your AC filter and replacing it if necessary.

Unpleasant Odors

A dirty filter can contribute to unpleasant odors in your home. When the filter becomes clogged with contaminants, mold, or bacteria, it can emit a musty or stale smell as the air passes through it. If you notice a lingering odor in your home, particularly when the AC is running, it may be time to replace the filter. Don’t just try to mask the odors with air freshener—this is a problem that needs to be dealt with at the source. A fresh filter will help improve indoor air quality and eliminate unwanted odors.

Visual Inspection

Performing a visual inspection of your AC filter is a simple yet effective way to determine if it needs replacing. If the filter appears visibly dirty, clogged, or discolored, it’s a clear indication that it has reached the end of its lifespan. A clean filter should have a light color, allowing air to pass through it easily. Regularly checking and replacing the filter based on its condition will help keep your AC system running smoothly. If you want expert eyes on your system, contact Morrison Plumbing. We can offer thorough inspection services and professional solutions to improve the functionality of your AC system.

Call Our Experts Today!

Regularly replacing your AC filter is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. Signs such as reduced airflow, increased energy consumption, dust buildup, allergy symptoms, unpleasant odors, and a visibly dirty filter all indicate that it’s time for a replacement. By addressing these indicators promptly, you can ensure proper airflow, extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, and enjoy the cleanest air possible. When you want professional services for your air conditioner, call Morrison Plumbing in Collinsville, IL, at (618) 202-5181. We’re available 24/7 to assist our valued customers.

Get Ready for Spring with These HVAC Maintenance Tips

by

The best time to call an HVAC repair technician for an annual system tune-up is in the spring. If you wait until the first hot day, you risk running an inefficient AC unit and having to wait longer for service because everyone else will want their systems checked as well. At Morrison Plumbing, our HVAC technicians will inspect the refrigerant level and ensure that all belts, blowers, and motors are in good working order. In addition, the technician will clean the fins and coils. So, make HVAC maintenance a priority on your spring-cleaning list, and contact Morrison Plumbing to make an appointment soon rather than later.

Clean Outdoor Condenser

Our professional technicians advise homeowners to take on the outdoor chores on the first sunny day of spring when it is comfortable to be outside. If you chose to cover it for the winter, start by uncovering your outdoor unit. The condenser is the unit that sits outside and looks like an air conditioner. If you didn’t cover it, the unit could be considerably dirty after a long winter. Clear any dirt or leaves stuck in the grates or the condenser base with a broom or brush.

Clear Away Vegetation or Debris

It is important to allow enough space for your condenser unit to breathe, so keep shrubs and bushes away from it. You don’t want your plants to be too close to your unit. Remove any encroaching vegetation about 2 feet away from the unit so it has plenty of space to function properly.

Do A Quick Inspection

At Morrison Plumbing, we also advise performing a quick inspection of your unit. You should be able to tell for yourself if anything is problematic. If the fins are cracked or bent, or the AC unit is leaning to one side or the other, you should have one of our HVAC contractors perform an AC maintenance examination and replace or repair any broken parts.

Remove the Grate and Clean the Inside

Before cleaning the inside of the air conditioner, turn off the power. You can clean the inside of the unit with a brush or a vacuum attachment. If there is caked-on dirt, use a garden hose to clean it off the fins. If those approaches don’t work and you want a professionally thorough clean, contact our experts at Morrison Plumbing.

Clean Your Maintenance Room

Your maintenance room where your units are stored can get dusty and dirty if left unattended. Sweep or vacuum around your furnace and HVAC system to collect any dust and debris. The maintenance room may not be on your usual vacuum route, but it’s worth giving it a pass every now and then to keep dirt and debris out of your system. Before cleaning, make sure no storage boxes are blocking vents or registers by moving them as needed.

Change Your Filters

Changing filters is quick and easy, but also a valuable process that should be completed regularly. You can save this indoor project for a cold or rainy day if you’d like. Air cannot pass through a dirty air filter, so we advise you to check them monthly and replace them if they appear dirty. Changing furnace filters on a regular basis will help keep the system running smoothly. Mold, gasses, and even viruses can be caught in HVAC filters, so do not skip this important step!

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats learn your household’s routine and adjust your indoor temperature automatically, saving energy and lowering your heating and cooling bills. You can look for smart thermostat rebates in your area or talk to our experts for superior advice on what products would be best for your home.

Consult with our expert technicians at Morrison Plumbing for guidance on getting your home ready for spring and the warmer months ahead. Every homeowner wants to have a comfortable house all year round, so you have to make the necessary adjustments when the seasons change. Is your HVAC unit ready for spring? Call our staff now at (618) 414-3437 to find out how we can serve you and improve your household so it’s ready for whatever the weather throws its way.

Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade

by

Your electrical panel, also known as the “breaker box,” is a critical component of your home because it is responsible for keeping your HVAC system running, your lights turned on, and your water hot. The electrical panel powers everything in your home that uses electricity.

The power in your home is critical to your safety and the safety of your home. When considering an electrical panel upgrade, you should hire a contractor who performs all types of electrical services to ensure that your connections provide reliable and adequate power to your home. Trust our qualified electricians at Morrison Plumbing and we can advise you when it’s time to service or upgrade your electrical panel.

Here are some things to think about and signs that it’s time to upgrade your home’s electrical panel!

Your Home Has a Fuse Box

Most older homes have fuse boxes. A fuse box and an electrical panel appear very different. A fuse box, as opposed to an electrical panel, has circular fuses connected to each circuit.

If your home has a fuse box, it is time to contact a licensed and certified electrician for assistance with an electrical panel replacement. You want to keep your house up to code, but there is no fuse box in any home in the country that meets minimum requirements.

Maintaining compliance with electrical codes ensures your home’s safety and immediately increases its value.

Strange Noises from Your Breaker Box

A slight “buzzing” sound from your breaker box is normal and considered safe. However, any “popping” or “crackling” coming from the breaker box should be noted and reported. These sounds may indicate arcing within the breaker and should be addressed as soon as possible by a qualified electrician.

Our experts at Morrison Plumbing will diagnose the problem and, if necessary, recommend an electrical panel upgrade. Your family’s safety is of the utmost importance to us, and we know you want to ensure everything is in working order, regardless of the solution. You can’t put a price on the safety of your home and your loved ones.

Breakers Keep Tripping Repeatedly
Breakers can trip for a variety of reasons, such as issues with your home’s electrical panel, faulty wiring, or a faulty breaker. After you’ve exhausted all simple fixes, and especially if you notice burn marks or rust on the breaker, it is likely time to replace the electrical panel and invest in an upgrade. Morrison Plumbing is always available to our valued customers to provide whatever services they need to keep their homes safe.

Burning Smell Coming from the Breaker Box
A burning odor is never a good sign with anything electrical. It could be a sign of serious and dangerous problems with the breaker box and your entire electrical system. If you smell burning coming from your breaker box, contact a reputable contractor for a safe and timely inspection. A burning odor coming from the breaker box could indicate melted wires and scorch marks, which are another significant concern.

Melted Wires or Scorch Marks

A burning odor indicates heat, and heat indicates melting and scorching. Heat from faulty breakers or old electrical wiring can melt the shielding on the wiring. Exposed wires have the potential to scorch the metal and plastic inside the breaker box. These conditions can easily cause the electricity to arc, resulting in the start of a fire. As a homeowner, you want to avoid an accidental fire in your home at all costs, so be on the lookout for the following:

  • Burns or scorching on the breaker
  • Burns or scorching on the electrical panel
  • Melted insulation or burns on wires

Our electricians are trained to work safely and effectively to resolve these issues and restore your panel’s functionality. Call our team today at (618) 408-1597.

Your Home is More Than 20 Years Old

While having an older home may not necessitate an electrical panel upgrade if you have improved your current device, having an electrician inspect it is still a good idea.

These inspections ensure that your electrical system is up to code and will reveal what (if any) improvements are needed, especially if you are planning a remodel or installing new appliances. For an electrical safety inspection, contact our experts.

Benefits of an Electrical Panel Upgrade

While adding safety and modernity to your home are obvious reasons to upgrade your electrical panel, other advantages of an electrical panel upgrade help add value to your home.

  • Safety—Upgrading your electrical hardware reduces the risk of fire and electrical shock in your home.
  • Increased Power—Having a new electrical panel that can handle your power needs increases the value of your property and the sell-ability of your home. It is important to plan for the future and ensure all of your power needs are met for whatever your home requires!
  • Improves the energy efficiency of your home—When compared to an electrical panel upgrade, older electrical panels consume more energy. Less energy consumption directly translates to more money in your pocket over time.
  • Lower Maintenance Costs—Electrical maintenance ensures that you will pay less for repairs and replacements in the future. An upgrade to your home’s electrical panel will reduce the amount of maintenance required and the cost of repairs.
  • Lower Insurance Premiums—A home with an up-to-date electrical panel and system that meets electrical code can reduce the amount you pay in homeowner’s insurance premiums. The increased safety of your home as a result of an electrical panel upgrade will have a direct impact on liability.

Contact Morrison Plumbing for Electrical Panel Upgrades

It can be difficult to determine when it is time to upgrade your electrical panel. Electricians are dedicated to keeping your home safe. If you have any doubts about the safety of your home’s electrical system, don’t try to figure it out on your own. Instead, have your current home electrical panel inspected and get a professional opinion and recommendation.

You must be confident that your home is secure and that the electrical system is up to code. When you call Morrison Plumbing for an electrical panel upgrade, we will be ready to assist you. We keep our electricians up to date on the latest industry advancements, improvements, and technologies. This allows us to provide you and your home with the best service possible!

Contact our expert team and make an appointment with Morrison Plumbing in Maryville, IL, today. Allow us to assist you at every stage of your electrical panel upgrade.

 

 

 

What Are 5 HVAC Troubleshooting Tips Every Homeowner Should Know?

by

Your HVAC system is used constantly in your home and must be properly maintained in order to function properly. Regular maintenance checks, changing air filters throughout your home, and calling professionals when you notice any problems with your system are all examples of proper maintenance. Even if you follow all of these steps, your HVAC system could still experience minor issues. What can you do as a homeowner to resolve some of the problems? Our experts at Morrison Plumbing have some helpful tips to share.

Tip #1: Make Sure Your Unit Has Power

Although this may seem obvious, it is not always the case when you have lost power. During a storm or because of an issue in your area, you may not realize your power is out until it becomes extremely hot or cold in your home, depending on the weather. If you suspect that the power to your unit is not turned on, check your breaker box.

Tip #2: Check Your Air Filters

Air filters should be checked and replaced every 2-3 months, which means you should always have a few spares on hand. Changing the air filters in your home will aid in the proper operation of the unit. It also helps to improve the air quality in your home. Air filters that aren’t changed on a regular basis make your system work harder and circulate common household allergens like pollen, debris, and pet hair.

Tip #3: Check Your Outside Unit

When you think about checking your HVAC system, it’s likely that you might overlook the outside unit. However, because it is the central point for airflow throughout your home, this component of your system is very important. Because the unit is outside, debris such as leaves and branches can become lodged within it, causing it to suffocate and eventually shut down. Debris removal from within and around the unit will assist in keeping the system running more efficiently. For a professional examination of your outdoor HVAC, contact our professional technicians.

Tip #4: Fight High Utility Bills

We’d all like to save money, and cutting your utility bills seems like a good place to start. You may discover when you pay closer attention to your utility bills, there are noticeable increases during peak usage periods, like the summer when we rely more heavily on contestant air conditioning. However, if you notice increases in your bill that are unexpected, this could indicate a problem with your HVAC system. Monitor your bills closely and reach out to the professionals if you spot a potential problem.

Tip #5: Monitor Your Thermostat Usage

If you suspect a problem with your HVAC unit, monitoring your thermostat may provide answers. If you set your thermostat and the temperature does not adjust as expected, this could indicate that your unit is not working properly. It’s also worth noting that your thermostat should be set to a constant temperature at all times. Year-round, a temperature of 68-70 degrees is ideal because constant temperature fluctuations may cause problems for your system.

Note: If your unit does not adjust to the temperature you set, it may be a sign that your thermostat batteries need to be replaced.

 

Overall, there are numerous ways to keep your HVAC system in good working order. These tips may assist you in detecting a problem with your system. At Morrison Plumbing, we recommend that your HVAC system be serviced on a regular basis by one of our professionals to ensure it is operating efficiently. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our team. You can schedule an appointment online through our user-friendly and informative website, or you can speak to one of our staff members by calling (618) 262-0446.

 

The Most Common Furnace Issues Reported By Homeowners

by

 

Furnaces are the number one used heating resource for homes throughout the United States. These systems have been around for hundreds of years and continue to provide families with comfortable temperatures in the winter months. At Morrison Plumbing, our HVAC technicians have responded to hundreds of service calls that require immediate repair for homes throughout Caseyville, IL. Fortunately, many of these issues are common and can be restored with the right tools and knowledge from our team. Here are some of the most common furnace issues that have been reported by homeowners, and how we can fix them.

Dirty Airducts

When you have a central furnace, there are vents that are connected through air ducts that feeds heat directly into your home. When air is pushed through your vents, oftentimes small dust particles and allergens can bundle together, creating large piles of debris that can force your furnace to work harder than it needs to. Once your furnace is overworked, it begins to wear internal parts that then need to be replaced by a professional technician. If this is the case, Morrison Plumbing offers expert furnace repair and air duct cleaning services to keep your warm home all winter long. Our team uses high end cleaning equipment and techniques to remove any debris in your air ducts so that your furnace can continue keeping you and your family comfortable.

Clogged Filters

Changing your furnace’s air filters is one of the easiest – and most important – forms of maintenance you can provide to your heating system. Did you know that most furnaces should have their filters replaced at least once every 1-3 months? Before you start panicking, this is an easy fix for both homeowners and HVAC technicians, and only costs a few bucks to replace. At Morrison Plumbing, clogged air filters are one of the most common issues that lead to furnace repairs in Caseyville, IL. Clean filters help minimize dust and debris that find their way into your heating unit and keep your air free of allergens. If you’ve changed your air filter and still notice a furnace issue, give us a call right away at (618) 408-1446.

A dirty furnace air filter that is lying on a wood floor in Caseyville, IL. A clogged air filter that needs to be replaced by an HVAC technician.

 

Failed Starting Mechanism

Each furnace has a starting mechanism that kickstarts a heating cycle once your thermostat is set. Without a working starting mechanism, your furnace will not be able to turn on or heat your home without be replaced. At Morrison Plumbing, we have seen many faulty starting mechanisms on residential furnaces and, luckily, have spare parts on hand to provide immediate restoration services. Don’t wait until your furnace is beyond repair, get in touch with our technicians to inspect and repair your heating system this winter in Caseyville, IL.

Broken Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger in your furnace is made dup of a coil with heated tubes that push air through your system and into your home. When this part stops working, you’ll notice cool air blowing through your vents or no heat coming from your furnace at all, forcing you to require professional HVAC repair. One of the only ways to prevent your heat exchanger from failing is by continuing good maintenance on your system and scheduling immediate repairs when you notice a lack of heating efficiency. At Morrison Plumbing, our trucks are stocked with heater exchangers for all furnace makes and models in Caseyville, IL. We offer immediate furnace repair so that you can avoid buying a new furnace, and we can help keep your heating system safe for years to come.

A homeowner in Caseyville, IL wearing a blue sweater and grey outerwear cold in their home due to a failed furnace that needs expert repair.