5 Ways Leaky Windows Affect How Your Home Is Heated

September 28, 2026

There is no doubt that windows are an essential part of any home. They let in natural light and provide ventilation. However, many homeowners have experienced a leaky window at one point. This issue is not only frustrating, but your windows can also experience damage. What about the effects on your heating and cooling system? Do leaky windows affect how your house is heated? Yes, leaky windows do affect how your home is heated. If you are experiencing leakages in windows, you will likely pay about 20%-30% more of your energy bills. The more your windows leak,

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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 draws heat

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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

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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

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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 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 first things

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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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Get the Best Indoor Fireplace With These 7 Tips

November 14, 2023

Choosing the best indoor fireplace for your home is about much more than looks. You’ll need to consider fuel type, heat output, smart features, safety and so much more. To help you choose one that meets your needs and preferences, we put together a helpful guide. We recommend using this guide and consulting with a licensed heating technician to achieve the best possible results. 1. Fuel Type It’s important to choose the correct fuel for your indoor fireplace. Consider how your option will affect the fireplace’s atmosphere, maintenance needs and running costs before making a final

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Factors to Consider When Buying a New Boiler

May 15, 2023

Boilers constitute a significant investment in your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. It is important to research the options available before deciding. With so many models and sizes of boilers available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Learn more about what you should look for when purchasing a new boiler: Efficiency Boilers come in different levels of efficiency. Higher-efficiency boilers use less energy and are more cost-effective in the long run, so selecting one with a high-efficiency rating is important. However, when choosing a higher-efficiency boiler, factor in the additional installation costs

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8 Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Furnace Replacement

January 20, 2023

As you equip your house for the cold months, make sure your heating system is in good working order so you can remain warm. Your furnace may show several signs indicating that something is awry and that you need to replace it. Here are seven obvious signals that you need a furnace replacement before winter arrives. 1. Old Furnace The most obvious clue that your heating system needs to be replaced is its age. The average life expectancy of a heating system is around 20 years. However, once your furnace reaches the 10 to the 15-year

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