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

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Differences Between A Whole-Home Dehumidifier And Humidifier

May 5, 2025

The humidity in the Peoria, IL area can vary from day to day and throughout the year. This can impact your indoor humidity, along with things like cooking and bathing. When humidity levels in your home are too high or too low, this can cause issues like allergies and physical discomfort. Luckily, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can help control indoor humidity. Indoor Relative Humidity Levels The relative humidity in your home should always remain between 35% and 50%. If you allow levels to rise, this can promote the growth of mold. High humidity can

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Can I Deduct A New HVAC System From My Taxes?

April 2, 2025

Upgrading your HVAC system is a big investment, and tax benefits can help make it more affordable. Depending on the type of system you install, you may be eligible for tax credits or deductions that help offset the cost. If you’re getting a new HVAC system, it’s a good idea to see if you can get any tax benefits. Tax Deduction vs Tax Credit A tax deduction lowers your taxable income, limiting the amount of your income that’s subject to tax. A tax credit, on the other hand, directly lowers the amount of taxes you owe.

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Should You Get Your Indoor Air Quality Tested? What You Need to Know

March 1, 2025

Dust, mold, and other tiny particles can float around unnoticed yet still trouble your health. Indoor air quality testing can give you answers, but you might wonder if it’s worth it. That’s something the team at Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Peoria, IL, helps homeowners like you figure out every day. Knowing what’s in your air can help you make choices that lead to a cleaner, healthier home. When Dust and Allergens Take Over Do you know that feeling when you wake up with a scratchy throat or your eyes water before you’ve even stepped outside? You might blame pollen or the

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Which Costs More to Run: A Boiler or a Furnace?

February 4, 2025

When it comes to heating your home, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of running your system. Boilers and furnaces are both common heating choices, but which one is more affordable to run? The answer depends on several factors, like the size of your home and how efficient the system is. At Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Peoria, IL, we can help homeowners like you weigh the pros and cons of each heating system to find the most cost-effective option for your needs. The Efficiency Piece: Boilers vs Furnaces When comparing costs, one of the

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Are Heat Pumps Any Good In Winter?

January 3, 2025

Heat pumps, unlike other heating systems, consume no fuel. They’re all electric and rely on heat energy in the outdoor air to keep homes warm. When most homeowners hear that, they immediately assume that heat pumps are a warm-weather technology. After all, how can you heat a home using the heat from freezing winter air? Here’s what you need to know about today’s heat pumps and whether they can handle the Illinois winter. Where Heat Pumps Get Their Heat To understand heat pumps, it helps to think of the concepts of heat and cold like a

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Enjoy the Benefits of a Professional HVAC Cleaning Before the New Year

December 5, 2024

Keeping up with an HVAC cleaning and inspection is so important as the winter season approaches. It’s essential when it comes to keeping your home warm and healthy. Dust and other debris can settle inside your heating and cooling system, which compromises its efficiency and the quality of your indoor air. The new year is the perfect time for setting goals and making resolutions. This year, include our professional HVAC maintenance in Peoria, IL in these plans. As a result, you can save money, have a healthier home, and be able to enjoy a warm and cozy

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Reducing Winter Heating Expenses in Illinois

November 7, 2024

Does the price of your winter heating bills have you stressed out? There are some simple ways that you can cut back on your heating expenses. Your home will remain comfortable, cozy, and safe all season. Seal Your Home Regardless of how old your home is, you are likely to have some cracks and gaps that allow cold air to seep into your home. Also, warm, conditioned air is escaping into the outdoors. Sealing up these areas using materials like spray foam, caulk, and weather stripping can create a tighter home envelope that will save you

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The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Heating Systems

October 4, 2024

A wide range of modern heating technologies are available. Let’s explore their advantages and disadvantages and why they may or may not be the ideal choice for your home. Furnaces Forced-air furnaces are still the most common way to heat American homes. Fuel-burning furnaces are the most popular. They cost more initially than electric furnaces but save money long term. That’s due to fuel costs and, potentially, energy incentives. Furnaces provide a hot heat that many people find comfortable. They also deliver consistent heating output no matter the ambient temperature. Furnaces are

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Is a Ductless Mini-Split System Ideal for Your Home?

September 4, 2024

With the growing popularity of ductless mini-split systems, many homeowners are exploring whether this option suits their needs. These versatile systems offer a unique solution, particularly for homes without existing ductwork or newly renovated spaces like basements and attics. Whether you’re considering a ductless mini-split for its energy efficiency, ease of installation, or ability to provide targeted heating and cooling, understanding its benefits can help you make an informed decision. What’s a Ductless Mini-Split System? A ductless mini-split system is a heating and cooling system that provides efficient climate control without requiring ductwork. This system

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