Welcome to The Sunny Side Blog

At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide leak detection services throughout the Portland area. People often wonder how effective they are. When you have a plumbing leak, it’s important…... Read Article

When scheduling a duct sealing service, customers often ask how long the seal will last. Sealing duct leaks can stop conditioned air from escaping, improving comfort and efficiency. It can…... Read Article

There are many important furnace replacement considerations when purchasing a new heating unit. Thinking through these can help you benefit from the investment for many years. If your existing unit…... Read Article

Electrical panel replacement is a job for a professional. No matter how handy a homeowner you are, you probably don’t have the training and knowledge to take on such a…... Read Article

Air duct cleaning services can cost between $450 and $1,000, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).¹ The expense of cleaning ducts can vary depending on your home’s square…... Read Article

Homeowners often don’t realize how easy it is to avoid heater repairs and the inconvenience and safety issues associated with furnace problems. Aside from routine maintenance, there are things you…... Read Article

Proper air conditioning vent installation helps your HVAC system perform optimally and can impact the design of your home. Whether installing vents for the first time or replacing old ducts,…... Read Article

If a toilet fill valve won’t shut off, the toilet will run continuously and waste many gallons of water. There are a few reasons this can happen. The valve may…... Read Article

It’s important to tell whether you have a split AC unit so you know how to maintain it and when you might need AC repair or replacement. This is one…... Read Article

You don’t need professional tools to detect a natural gas leak. This is a good thing. Natural gas can be harmful and deadly. It is also flammable and explosive, which…... Read Article

Whether your energy-efficient HVAC system is up to par is important, as heating and cooling account for more than half the energy consumed in your home, according to the U.S.…... Read Article

Installing ductwork in an older home can be challenging for many reasons. Oftentimes, there simply isn’t enough room for HVAC ducts. Even if there is, you may still need to…... Read Article

Replacing ductwork is an extensive and costly project. Fortunately, HVAC ducts don’t have to be replaced that often. They can last 10 to 15 years before issues such as deteriorating…... Read Article

Air conditioning is essential for any home or business. It provides a wide range of benefits, including comfort, humidity control, and improved indoor air quality. But AC installation is far…... Read Article

At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide air quality testing for home and business owners throughout the Portland area. You can schedule testing at any time. It can be…... Read Article

Few homeowners have the knowledge and equipment to attempt duct installation themselves. It’s best to have a licensed professional install or replace ductwork. However, you can plan accordingly, which is…... Read Article

Of all household expenses, plumbing repairs are often the least anticipated. Even worse, plumbing failures tend to happen during off hours, meaning you’ll pay emergency fees on top of repair…... Read Article

A slow-draining sink, an overflowing toilet, or a backed-up drain can mean a clog in your plumbing system or the sewer line. Foul odors can also mean a drain is…... Read Article

Many home and business owners hire an electrician only during an emergency. But a service upgrade can have many benefits. It can improve safety, increase energy efficiency, and provide enough…... Read Article

If you look at your thermostat, you’ll see a fan option on the switch or touchscreen. We often hear, “Is it OK to run the fan without the AC?” The…... Read Article

Ideally, the relative humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%. If it’s any higher, the air can feel thick and sticky, your allergies may worsen, paint and…... Read Article

Air conditioner repair is often a costly and unanticipated expense. Geographic location is one factor that can impact repair costs. And given how hot it can get in summer, AC…... Read Article

If a toilet pipe is leaking, a faulty shut-off valve may be the reason. The valve is an important component as it controls water flow. It should be used when…... Read Article

The condenser unit is a vital part of your AC system. It’s a large piece of equipment that sits outside, where it releases hot air that’s been absorbed from your…... Read Article

Common measurements to determine HVAC system performance include temperature, humidity, and air velocity. Static pressure is another metric that helps evaluate how a system is operating. It might not be…... Read Article

You might consider cutting into existing ductwork to extend your HVAC system to a finished basement, converted attic or garage, or home addition. But is this a good idea? Well,…... Read Article

Shutting off your toilet may be necessary if there’s an emergency and the fixture is about to overflow. It’s also useful during a repair or inspection. You should know how…... Read Article

Air ducts must be sized exactly right for a central air conditioning system to work properly. The square footage of a room mainly determines the proper duct size. Too large…... Read Article

Refrigerant circulates continuously as an air conditioner is running. It absorbs heat, releases it outdoors, and allows your AC to deliver cool air to your home. An air conditioner refrigerant…... Read Article

For most homeowners, it’s pretty close to a worst-case scenario. The AC turns on but refuses to cool things down on a hot summer day. Should you call an AC…... Read Article

Traditional water heaters store lots of hot water for when you need it. A water heater tank can also contain other unwanted materials. Sand, grit, and sediment from minerals in…... Read Article

A home doesn’t have as extensive a network of air ducts as a commercial building. But homeowners often underestimate the importance of duct design and the type of ductwork installed.…... Read Article

Your air conditioner has a fan that turns on/off with the compressor. However, you can select “Fan Mode” so the fan stays on even if the unit isn’t cooling your…... Read Article

The main breaker in your electrical panel controls the flow of current to every circuit in your home. You shouldn’t get shocked if it isn’t on. Right? Not exactly; you…... Read Article

Uneven heating is a common problem in homes with gas furnaces. Some rooms may be comfortably warm while others are hot and stuffy. There may even be rooms that are…... Read Article

Homeowners often choose to heat their residences with natural gas heating systems. Natural gas is highly effective at heating air and water. If it’s time to replace your old furnace…... Read Article

A central natural gas heating system is one of many types of heating systems used in homes. Other heaters may use water or steam, electricity, or solid fuel like wood.…... Read Article

If your furnace isn’t working, your first move may be to call a local HVAC company for emergency furnace repair. Waiting to fix your furnace can have costly consequences. Many…... Read Article

Heat pumps are great for heating and cooling homes in moderate climates. In Portland, OR, winter days aren’t usually much below freezing, if at all, and summers aren’t usually blazing…... Read Article

Heating costs are high and are continuing to rise. Therefore, homeowners in the Portland area often weigh improved comfort over saving. Operating a heating system is complicated during the wintertime.…... Read Article

Your HVAC ductwork should be cleaned professionally, even if it’s once every few years. Dirty ducts can be a source of particles that circulate in your home and contaminants that…... Read Article

Does your furnace blower fan keep turning on and off, or run when your furnace isn’t heating? This is a common HVAC problem. Various underlying reasons can leave you asking,…... Read Article

Compression shut-off valves are used with copper pipes to create a watertight seal. A compression sleeve fits in a coupling nut, which screws onto the valve body. The brass sleeve…... Read Article

Installing a new HVAC system is an investment, but one that can last many years. Portland area homeowners also know the cost goes up significantly when ductwork is included, whether…... Read Article

You can add a vent to existing ductwork if your AC can handle it. This can provide comfort in rooms not served by your HVAC system. It can even improve…... Read Article

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was signed into law by President Bide on August 16th, 2022, however, it does not start taking effect until 2023 at the earliest. The…... Read Article

We’ve covered the perks of always running your HVAC fan. But there are disadvantages such as increased energy usage and wear. However, there are reasons to consider having your AC…... Read Article

Air conditioners cool the air in your home by removing heat. But having cooler air doesn’t mean it’s less humid. To address this, an AC system removes humidity by collecting…... Read Article

Banging is one of the most common noises heard from HVAC ductwork. It is caused by the expansion and contraction of metal duct walls as pressure and temperature in the…... Read Article

Turning the toilet shutoff valve is a critically important step before working on your toilet. If you don’t or the valve won’t turn clockwise to close, then your small fix…... Read Article

When ductwork is configured, numerous measurements must be taken. Simply connecting system components and vents with any type, length, or size of tubing won’t cut it. If your ductwork is…... Read Article

You should be accustomed to the sound of your HVAC system running. A low hum or the sound of blowing air is normal. If your air vents suddenly become very…... Read Article

As part of our range of air quality services, Sky provides humidifier/dehumidifier installation. Too much or too little moisture in the air can not only make your home uncomfortable. It…... Read Article

Sky Heating & Air Conditioning provides Portland-area customers with ductwork services, including installation, replacement, and sealing. Installing ductwork in existing walls can be challenging, especially in older homes not designed…... Read Article

We’ve discussed how to choose an AC that’s the right size for your home. Too big an AC will use too much energy and too small a unit won’t cool…... Read Article

Many people leave their AC set to “Auto”, which allows it to cycle on and off to maintain the set temperature. As such, the fan will automatically turn on when…... Read Article

Mold can be incredibly problematic for homeowners. It creates many hazards and can do substantial damage, but tends to grow out of sight. Growing in dark, damp places, including air…... Read Article

A furnace can last 15 to 30 years. During that time, there are many issues a technician can repair. Rising heating bills, uneven heating, and humidity problems at home can…... Read Article

Consumers shopping for ACs may ask, “What is SEER?” This term stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it is a measure of air…... Read Article

Hard water is present in about 85% of the U.S.1 As water passes through rock and soil, it picks up calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. While hard water does not…... Read Article

Most of the time, it’s best to call a plumber to deal with a water leak. But small leaks from an obvious source can sometimes be fixed quickly. First, you…... Read Article

  Properly installed central AC components tend to last longer. Meanwhile, you’ll probably spend less on repairs and service over the life of the system. It should run more reliably…... Read Article

Some homeowners may feel comfortable with replacing a light switch, light fixture, or outlet. But there are many things to consider if you’re going to attempt electrical work. Any trained…... Read Article

A residential service panel receives electricity via two 120-volt service wires from outside. It then distributes this electricity to all the circuits in your home and to every appliance, electronic…... Read Article

Water heater performance is an important consideration when selecting the right model for your home. The amount of hot water a unit can deliver is a key factor. While performance…... Read Article

If your home isn’t the right temperature, no matter how often you adjust the thermostat, it may not be time to summon an HVAC contractor. Thermostats can malfunction or break…... Read Article

When talking about HVAC systems, the condenser is one of the most often-mentioned components. An AC condenser unit is part of the outdoor unit where heat is dissipated from refrigerant…... Read Article

6 Benefits of Always Running Your HVAC Fan  A properly sized and installed furnace and air conditioner should serve your home well for many years. The HVAC fan is an…... Read Article

While many people think an attic is for hoarding things they don’t need, it can actually be a convenient living space. Converting an attic into a bedroom, for example, can…... Read Article

For most people, air conditioning is a modern convenience. It’s easy to use—just turn it on, or raise or lower the temperature, to stay comfortable. But there’s more to it;…... Read Article

If you’re reading this title for the first time, you might be perplexed. There’s plumbing inside the walls, water lines under floors, and pipes above ceilings. That’s within your home.…... Read Article

  The appearance of mold can be related to the condition of your HVAC and plumbing systems. Excess humidity and levels of moisture provide an environment for mold spores to…... Read Article

  Too much humidity can cause mold and other problems. But too little humidity causes issues as well. Dryness is something you can avoid with a humidifier. Smaller ones are…... Read Article

With so many glass cleaners on the market, it can be tough to decide which one to use. It’s important to keep glass shower doors clean. Otherwise, microorganisms can start…... Read Article

The toilet shut-off valve may get little, if any, use; all the while, its rubber washers may dry rot. Just a slight turn can then cause the valve to leak.…... Read Article

Water supply pipes are mainly available in two materials—copper and cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX. Copper has historically been a common piping material. It is still widely used, while PEX flexible…... Read Article

A dripping faucet may just seem annoying. However, one drip per second, in a single year, wastes over 3,000 gallons of water, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A…... Read Article

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 30% of the energy consumed by your HVAC system can be lost due to faulty ductwork. The signs of a duct problem…... Read Article

Is spring cleaning just a quick neatening up of your house? Think again. Not every homeowner considers plumbing maintenance as part of their spring-cleaning routine. But it’s the perfect time…... Read Article

Water heaters come in electric or gas models. Both options are similar in that they both get you hot water for daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and showering. The…... Read Article

How Long Should a Furnace Last? Sometimes you can predict how long a furnace will last depending on its size, various installation factors, and the comfort it provides. Estimates on…... Read Article

A mini split heat pump is an energy efficient alternative to traditional heating and air conditioning systems. Unlike other A/C systems, it does not use ductwork, hence the term “ductless…... Read Article

There are various forms of leak detection. In manufacturing, specialized equipment can identify leaks in plastic bottles, O-rings, and soldered joints. Everything from beverage cans and aerosol containers to pressure…... Read Article

Homeowners have become more handy, educated, and self-sufficient over the past few decades. There’s practically no limit to the DIY videos and how-to guides you can find. But when it…... Read Article

An electrical panel can be expected to last 20 to 25 years. In some homes, it may be 30, 40, or 60 years since it’s been installed. If so, it’s…... Read Article

Water heaters are effective but often sluggish, especially when it’s very cold or the hot water tap has been off for a while. This doesn’t mean anything’s wrong with your…... Read Article

Choosing the right heating system for your home can be a tough decision. When it comes to deciding between a heat pump vs furnace, weighing things like heating costs, efficiency,…... Read Article

If you have an old house, re-piping can save a lot of time and money in the long run. Rusted, worn out pipes can develop small leaks or fail entirely…... Read Article

  Having your furnace conk-out on a cold winter’s night is not an ideal situation, especially if you’re snowed in and a technician is unable to get to it right…... Read Article

  Not many homeowners think about the health of their home’s sewer lines or whether they are operating properly, but they are an integral element of any working home. And…... Read Article

  Portland winters are typically both wet and cold which can lead to problems more than just a snowed-in driveway. Knowing how to do things like winterize pipes and weatherstrip…... Read Article

  Oregon gets quite cold in the winter and has a lot of residents trying to find heating hacks that will save money while keeping their homes nice and toasty…... Read Article

Natural gas is a fossil fuel that comes from deep below the Earth’s surface. It consists of methane, as well as non-hydrocarbon gasses and other liquid hydrocarbons in underground rock…... Read Article

When summer’s over and fall nights roll into town, off goes the A/C and on goes the heat. Fall’s a great time to maintain home systems, and outdoor A/C units…... Read Article

Tankless water heaters are not only space-saving and reliable (they never run out of water), but also save a great deal of water and energy. While they cost more initially…... Read Article

  Are you afraid of needing an emergency plumber? A plumbing emergency can happen to anyone, but it’s especially a nightmare during the holidays. What could be worse than having…... Read Article

  A geothermal heat pump is a renewable energy technology that has been around since the 1940s, now gaining new traction in residential and commercial markets. Also known as a…... Read Article

  Winter is quickly approaching which means it’s time for your yearly furnace tune-up. Nothing is worse than returning home from work to find the inside temperature a bone-chilling 50…... Read Article

  Finding the most efficient HVAC system requires some research into the latest products and knowing what is best suited for your home. Energy efficiency is achieved on many levels.…... Read Article

While homeowners have a gambit of heating and cooling options to choose from, the ductless heat pump is becoming one of the most popular. Sometimes used with a ductless mini-split…... Read Article

A gas furnace is one of the primary choices when it comes to heating homes across the United States. While equally effective as an electric furnace, there are pro’s and…... Read Article

Do you need to relocate your thermostat? If you’re getting ghost readings it may be a good idea. Your thermostat works by measuring the temperature around it to control your…... Read Article

The right sized ductwork ensures your HVAC system will work efficiently. If the ducts are too small, the system will work harder and use more energy; oversized ducts will reduce…... Read Article

Most people, when it’s time to replace their air conditioner or furnace, think about whether they can afford to do so. Any HVAC appliance is an investment. And if your…... Read Article

Indoor air quality testing helps find the cause of symptoms people are experiencing in the home or office. Poor air quality has a wide range of effects. Regular testing can…... Read Article

Defective ductwork can lose 30%, 40%, or as much as 50% of the energy used by your HVAC system. While HVAC ductwork installation is costly, it can save you a…... Read Article

Running an HVAC fan continuously may sound counterintuitive. You might thinking constantly running the HVAC fan would cost more, increase motor wear, and require more frequent filter changes. Believe it…... Read Article

Sky has been serving the Portland area since 1979. We know a great deal about furnaces and HVAC systems in general. While we’re trusted for quality furnace installation and support,…... Read Article

Keeping your homes HVAC running at peak efficiency is paramount as a home owner, and knowing the types of HVAC filters available and save you thousands in time and money.…... Read Article

The condition of your ductwork has a direct impact on air quality everywhere in your home. Although often neglected, air ducts are critical HVAC components. In addition to air quality…... Read Article

If you live in an area with humid, muggy weather, having a dehumidifier is a good idea. While a modern AC system can improve air quality, it’s a common question…... Read Article

The electrical service panel, also known as a breaker box, is a central distribution point that connects the external wires coming from the street with the internal cables of your home’s…... Read Article

If you’re search of a genuine reason to install a Generator, then look no further. In this world of modern technology, generators still play an incredibly important role in keeping…... Read Article

In this era of modern technology, new things are being developed, making human life much easier than before. The HEPA filter is one of the best gadgets in this concern.…... Read Article

As frequently used as they are replied upon, air conditioners are an essential appliance. As much as we try, ac problems occur all too often in the summer months. An…... Read Article

Saving on your water bill can be as simple as changing your habits. While utility prices, climate conditions, and population growth are out of your control, your actions are not.…... Read Article

Roughly 12% of energy used at home is for air conditioning, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That number can be up to 27% in hot/humid regions.1 But you’re…... Read Article

Maintaining your heat pump can often go overlooked in the hubbub of everyday life and home maintenance; here is the ultimate heat pump maintenance checklist to make maintaining your heat…... Read Article

Our customers often struggle to understand the kinds of HVAC service they need. As Portland’s leading HVAC experts, Sky Heating & Air Conditioning can answer some common HVAC questions regarding…... Read Article

A ductless AC, which is simpler than a traditional HVAC system, consists of an exterior condenser or compressor and an indoor air handler. This concept is more common in Europe…... Read Article

At Sky Heating, we receive many questions about geothermal heating systems. Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions we get and expert answers to help you decide on the…... Read Article

The source of a water leak in your home is often hard to find. Your plumbing consists of many hidden components. Nonetheless, even a small leak can waste a lot…... Read Article

You can’t see, smell, or taste carbon monoxide, or CO, but high concentrations can be deadly. Hundreds of people in the United States succumb to its effects every year. Carbon…... Read Article

Loud noises from your ductwork can propagate throughout your entire home. The loud rush of air and sudden banging, popping, and knocking sounds can be unnerving. These noises are usually…... Read Article

If you see your furnace leaking, there can be a few reasons why. The first step is to contact a technician to diagnose the problem because, if your furnace is…... Read Article

It may not feel so warm yet, but soon enough you will be relying on your AC every day. Spring air conditioner maintenance should be part of your spring-cleaning plan.…... Read Article

Water heater failure often comes as a big surprise. However, a sudden shot of cold water from your faucets or shower isn’t typically the first sign of a breakdown. There…... Read Article

Geothermal heating and cooling is becoming more popular among homeowners. You can cut your utility bills in half with a geothermal heat pump, so it can be well worth the…... Read Article

Air ducts cycle all the air in your home’s HVAC system. In fact, ductwork is an extremely important part of central air conditioning. A dirty air duct can reduce system…... Read Article

When you add up what you spend annually on heating and cooling costs, the numbers can be staggering. Heating accounts for about 42% of your utility bill, according to Energy.gov.1…... Read Article

Whether you are replacing your water heater or also planning a more extensive home remodel, there are many decisions to make. Choosing between a traditional tank water heater and smaller,…... Read Article

The fall season is an ideal time to schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment. Prepping your HVAC system for colder weather can avoid a breakdown and expensive repairs during the winter.…... Read Article

According to Energy Star, home heating accounts for 29% of your annual energy costs. That’s more than for cooling, appliances, or lighting. You might have more control over what you…... Read Article

A thermostat is important for keeping your home warm or cool any time of the year. It gives you control over the temperature and also tracks how cold or hot…... Read Article

Are you shopping for a new air conditioner in The Dalles, Oregon? Buying an air conditioner is not only a major financial decision; it is one that impacts the comfort…... Read Article

Homeowners in Portland and The Dalles depend on Sky Heating & Air Conditioning for regular service. The benefits of air conditioner service have been well publicized, especially in regard to…... Read Article

Air conditioner noise is one of those things that creeps up on you. You don’t really notice it at first, and then one day, you can’t hear yourself think anymore.…... Read Article

Air filter replacement is easy to forget about. However, replacing the air filter in your HVAC system is one of the easiest maintenance tasks. It can also help your home…... Read Article

Residential HVAC ductwork is more prone to air leaks than most people realize. For many homeowners, it seems like no big deal, but leaky ducts are a serious problem. Up…... Read Article

When shopping around for a new air conditioner, SEER is one way to compare it to other models. This is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.…... Read Article

Preventative maintenance should be performed twice a year on your heating and cooling system. While maintenance plans vary based on the age of the system, how much you use it,…... Read Article

In Oregon, indoor humidity can get quite high during the rainy season. Ideally, relative humidity in your home should be from 30% to 50%. Any higher and it can create…... Read Article

Size is one of the biggest factors when installing a new air conditioner. If the unit’s capacity is too small, it will run continuously and use more energy, increasing your…... Read Article

Air conditioners are designed to keep indoor air cool. They also contribute to fresh, clean air, but this requires the use of an air filter. The air filter is the…... Read Article

A ductless mini split cooling and heating system is beneficial if you prefer room-by-room temperature control, or zoning. It can be used in a home or a variety of commercial…... Read Article

Were you aware that most companies charge either a trip charge or diagnostics charge to come to your house? There are a lot of costs of doing business for a…... Read Article

One of the biggest questions homeowners face with their HVAC system is when to keep repairing vs when to replace. Modern HVAC systems have warranties up to 10 years for…... Read Article

(AND THE THREE CATEGORIES THEY ALL FALL INTO) In most homes almost all breakdowns occur due to two distinct reasons, almost every issue falls into one of these three categories.…... Read Article