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

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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

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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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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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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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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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How to Calibrate Your Thermostat for Optimal Summer Comfort

June 13, 2024

The thermostat plays a critical role in the function of your home’s air conditioner. It tells you how well your air conditioner maintains the set thermostat temperature when it works properly. To ensure it works reliably, you can use these six tips to calibrate your thermostat for optimal summer comfort. 1. Check the Thermostat’s Accuracy Before you calibrate your thermostat, we will check its accuracy in reading the air temperature in your house. To do this, we will turn on your air conditioner and let it run for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes,

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The Benefits of Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems in Illinois

May 8, 2024

As a homeowner, you want to create a space that is comfortable and inviting for yourself, your friends and your guests. One of the easiest ways to do this is with an energy-efficient HVAC system installed in your house. Let’s take a look at a few of the potential benefits of taking such action. Save Money Now and in the Future You can save money today because an energy-efficient system will drastically cut down on your heating and cooling bills. If you have a furnace or air conditioner in your home that was installed before 2005,

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Understanding SEER Ratings and Why They Matter in Illinois

April 5, 2024

HVAC units get a workout in homes in the Central Illinois area, and people often worry about efficiency and cost with their systems running so much. If you’ve ever looked at the ratings for heating and air conditioning systems, then the SEER number was likely front and center. The SEER rating shows up on labels for HVAC units so that consumers can make apples-to-apples comparisons between systems. You may have questions about what the SEER number is and why it’s particularly important to folks who live in this part of Illinois. We have answers. Here’s what you need to know.

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Spring HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Illinois Homeowners

March 27, 2024

With spring on the horizon around central Illinois, it’s time to begin thinking about preparing your air conditioner for the heat. As you transition from heating your home over the winter, there are some key maintenance tasks that will ensure you maintain your system’s efficiency while reducing your cooling bills and the wear on your system. Use this checklist as your guide to hit all of the important HVAC maintenance tasks before the summer heat settles in. Stow Humidifiers It’s common to use a humidifier to help improve your home’s air quality over the winter, but

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