Check Out Our Blog | Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning

How a Dual-Fuel Heating System Balances Comfort and Efficiency

March 1, 2026

A dual-fuel heat pump system is a hybrid heating setup that combines a gas furnace with an electric heat pump. It can automatically switch between the two energy sources based on outdoor temperatures. This ability maximizes comfort and efficiency. Many homeowners find that this kind of system brings them the best of both worlds. They can enjoy energy savings during milder weather but still have access to dependable warmth when conditions are colder. How a Dual-Fuel Heat Pump System Works A traditional heat pump doesn’t generate heat. Instead, it moves it using electricity. In winter, it

Understanding Dual Fuel Heat Pumps

February 2, 2026

A dual fuel heat pump is a system that operates primarily as a heat pump but switches to a backup heat source during extreme weather. In most homes, the backup system is a gas or electric furnace. The system automatically chooses the most efficient heating option based on outdoor temperatures and operating conditions. Below is a closer look at how dual fuel systems work and when they make sense. Heat Pump Efficiency and Temperature Performance Heat pumps are most efficient in moderate outdoor temperatures, typically above freezing. While efficiency gradually declines as temperatures drop, many modern cold-climate models

Pros and Cons of Running Furnace Fan Continuously in Winter

January 9, 2026

If you’re like most people, you probably leave the fan setting on your thermostat set to “Auto” throughout the winter. When the fan is set to “Auto,” it will only run and circulate air around the house when the furnace is on and will shut off almost immediately after the furnace turns off. If you switch the fan to the “On” setting, it will instead run continuously. Having the fan run continuously provides some benefits, but there are also some obvious downsides you should consider when deciding which setting is right for your home. Pro: More Even Temperatures Throughout

Should You Install a Gas or Electric Furnace?

December 3, 2025

Is a gas or electric furnace better? The answer to this question might be another question along the lines of, “Better for what?” There are advantages and disadvantages to both gas and electric furnaces. Before deciding which kind you should install, you need to understand all those advantages and disadvantages and consider what’s most important to you. How Do Gas and Electric Furnaces Work? Gas and electric furnaces are similar in many ways. They both heat air and distribute it throughout your home or commercial building via ductwork. They both regulate temperature with a thermostat. However, there is

What Is Considered An HVAC System Emergency?

November 5, 2025

Bloomington, IL has a humid continental climate. With warm, wet summers and frosty winters, every heating and cooling problem can feel like an HVAC emergency. But while some issues warrant the extra cost of after-hours HVAC service, others do not. Read on to find out what qualifies as an HVAC emergency and what to do when urgent problems arise. Extreme, Unsafe Temperatures In winter, Bloomington temperatures can dip as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If your heater won’t turn on, schedule heating service right away. Living in a house with no heat could lead to burst pipes or

What Are The Symptoms Of Poor Indoor Air Quality?

October 7, 2025

The air you breathe indoors can hide unseen threats. Bad smells, mysterious allergies, and constant dust can all signal trouble. At Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Peoria, IL, we help homeowners spot these hidden issues and restore fresh air in every room. An Increase in Allergy Symptoms Sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and a runny nose often point to seasonal allergies. However, these symptoms can also indicate an indoor air quality problem. When these symptoms persist even after closing doors and windows and staying inside, airborne irritants may be the culprit. Dust mites nesting in carpets can trigger allergies. Pet dander circulates

Can It Be Expensive to Use a Fireplace?

September 5, 2025

Having a home with a fireplace can create a great ambience for relaxing on a cold winter’s night. However, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to wonder if they should use their fireplace as their main source of wintertime heat. Below, our heating services team will assess the costs associated with a fireplace and whether it’s a viable home heating option for your household. Types of Fireplaces One of the biggest factors that will play a role in the total cost of running your fireplace is the type of fuel you use. There are generally three types

Ways To Save on Air Conditioning Costs in the Summer

August 6, 2025

When the heat outside cranks up, your AC often does the same indoors. Using innovative options to stay comfortable without overworking your system can prevent your energy bills from rising similarly. At Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Peoria, IL, we help homeowners fine-tune their cooling habits and make adjustments that lead to real savings. Use Fans to Give Your AC a Break Fans don’t cool air, but they circulate it through your space, which makes your body feel cooler. That helps because it means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable. A ceiling fan

Which Is Better For My Home: Heat Pump vs Mini-Split?

July 9, 2025

When it comes to getting an HVAC system for your home, you have many options. Two of the most popular are the heat pump and ductless mini-split systems. Below, we’ll discuss what each of these systems is and help you determine the best one to fit your needs. Heat Pumps Heat pumps are a dual-purpose HVAC system that can allow you to enjoy comfortable heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. Heat pumps have an indoor air handler unit, ductwork, and an outdoor condenser unit. During the summer months, your ductwork will bring hot

What Are The Most Effective Cooling Systems?

June 3, 2025

When you decide it’s time to invest in an air conditioning system for your home, there are many options out there. Understanding which ones are the most efficient can allow you to minimize your energy expenses while enjoying optimal comfort in your home. Below, we’ll discuss the different units so that you can make a better-informed decision about which one is appropriate for your household. Types of Cooling Systems There are three types of cooling systems you can purchase, which include a central air conditioner, a heat pump, and a ductless mini-split system. All of these

Blog

Contact Our Specialists