Blog - Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning

Minnesota’s brutal winters demand reliable heating solutions, and heat pumps are an increasingly popular choice for their energy efficiency and year-round functionality. However, maintaining your heat pump during extreme cold is crucial to ensure it performs optimally when you need it most. At Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help you keep your heat pump running smoothly all season long.

1. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Minnesota winters bring heavy snow and ice, which can accumulate on your heat pump’s outdoor unit. Regularly clear away snow, ice, and debris to maintain proper airflow and prevent system strain.

2. Schedule a Seasonal Maintenance Check
Professional maintenance before and during the heating season ensures your heat pump is in top condition. Regular inspections can identify and resolve potential issues before they escalate, keeping your system efficient and your home warm.

3. Adjust Thermostat Settings Appropriately
Heat pumps are most efficient when set to a consistent temperature. Avoid frequent thermostat adjustments, which can force the system to work harder, reducing its efficiency.

4. Monitor and Replace Air Filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your heat pump less effective. Replace filters every 1-3 months to ensure clean air circulation and optimal performance during peak heating months.

5. Check for Frost or Ice Build-Up
Some frost on your heat pump is normal, but excessive ice can signal a defrost system issue. If you notice persistent ice build-up, contact a professional technician immediately to avoid further damage.

6. Use Supplemental Heating When Necessary
During extreme cold snaps, heat pumps may need assistance to maintain indoor temperatures. Pair your heat pump with a supplemental heating source, like a gas furnace, for added comfort without overburdening your system.

7. Ensure Proper Insulation
A well-insulated home helps your heat pump maintain consistent indoor temperatures more efficiently. Check your doors, windows, and ducts for drafts and seal any leaks to prevent heat loss.

8. Regularly Inspect Your System
​Listen for unusual noises, monitor energy bills for sudden increases, and watch for uneven heating throughout your home. These could be signs your heat pump needs attention from a professional.

Maintaining your heat pump during Minnesota’s winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these tips, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure consistent, energy-efficient comfort for your home. Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning is here to support you with expert maintenance and service, so your heat pump can handle whatever winter throws your way.

Minnesota winters are no joke, and keeping your home warm can take a toll on your energy bills. At Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re passionate about helping homeowners stay cozy while keeping heating costs manageable. With these tips, you can balance comfort and savings all season long.

1. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats let you control your home's heating remotely, optimizing energy use and reducing waste. You can schedule temperature changes for when you’re asleep or away, ensuring you’re only heating your home when needed.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Your Home
Drafts around doors, windows, and ducts allow cold air in and warm air out. Proper weatherstripping and insulation can significantly reduce energy loss, keeping your heating system from working overtime.

3. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently. Routine maintenance checks can catch issues early, improve system efficiency, and ensure you’re not overpaying on energy bills.

4. Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Blocked vents force your system to work harder to distribute heat. Make sure furniture or curtains aren’t obstructing airflow to allow even heating throughout your home.

5. Use a Whole-Home Humidifier
Dry air feels colder, which might tempt you to crank up the thermostat. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, making your home feel warmer and more comfortable at a lower temperature setting.

6. Utilize Zone Heating
If parts of your home aren’t in use, consider shutting doors and using zoning or programmable thermostats to heat only the areas where you spend the most time.

7. Optimize Your Furnace Filter
Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency. Change your furnace filter every 1-3 months during peak use to keep your system running smoothly.

8. Consider a Furnace Upgrade
​Older furnaces are less efficient and cost more to operate. If your system is over 15 years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace can save you significant money on heating bills in the long run.

Minnesota winters demand a reliable heating system, and with the right strategies, you can reduce energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help with all your HVAC needs, ensuring your home stays warm and efficient through the harshest months.

Minnesota winters bring frigid temperatures, and with them, dry air that can wreak havoc on your home and health. Installing a whole-home humidifier is an effective solution to combat the harsh effects of winter dryness. Here’s why a whole-home humidifier is a game-changer for the colder months.

1. Improved Indoor Comfort
​Dry air can make your home feel colder than it actually is, even when the thermostat is set to a comfortable temperature. A whole-home humidifier adds moisture to the air, making it feel warmer and more comfortable without cranking up the heat.

2. Healthier Living Environment
Low humidity levels can cause dry skin, irritated sinuses, and an increased risk of respiratory issues. It can also make you more susceptible to colds and the flu. Maintaining proper humidity levels helps:

• Relieve dry skin and chapped lips.
• Reduce the severity of allergies and asthma.
• Minimize the spread of airborne viruses.

3. Protection for Your Home
Dry air doesn’t just affect your body—it also impacts your home. Low humidity can:

• Cause wood floors, furniture, and doors to crack or warp.
• Damage musical instruments like pianos or guitars.
• Increase static electricity, which can be both annoying and harmful to electronics.

A whole-home humidifier helps protect your home and its contents by maintaining balanced moisture levels.

4. Energy Efficiency
Humidified air feels warmer, meaning you can lower your thermostat without sacrificing comfort. This can result in significant energy savings over the course of the winter while reducing the strain on your heating system.

5. Easy Integration with Your HVAC System
A whole-home humidifier works seamlessly with your existing HVAC system, ensuring that every room in your home benefits from properly balanced humidity levels. Unlike portable humidifiers, which only cover small areas and require constant refilling, a whole-home system is efficient and low-maintenance.

What’s the Ideal Humidity Level?
During the winter, the ideal indoor humidity level is between 30-50%. This range is sufficient to improve comfort and health while preventing condensation on windows and other surfaces.

A whole-home humidifier is an investment in your comfort, health, and home during Minnesota’s cold months. By maintaining proper humidity levels, you can enhance your living environment, protect your belongings, and even save on energy costs. Don’t let winter dryness take a toll on your home—consider adding a whole-home humidifier this season.

As Minnesota’s winter approaches, a reliable furnace is your home’s best defense against the cold. But how do you know if it’s time to upgrade your furnace before the snow starts to fall? Here are the top signs to watch for to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable this season.

1. Your Furnace Is Over 15 Years Old
Most furnaces have a lifespan of 15-20 years. If your system is nearing or past this range, it may be time to consider a replacement. Aging furnaces often lose efficiency, resulting in higher energy bills and more frequent repairs.

2. Increasing Energy Bills
Have you noticed your heating bills creeping up year after year? An inefficient furnace has to work harder to heat your home, driving up energy costs. Upgrading to a high-efficiency model can lower your bills and improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.

3. Frequent Repairs
If you’re calling for furnace repairs more often than you’d like, it might be more cost-effective to replace the system altogether. The cost of frequent repairs can quickly add up and may outweigh the investment in a new unit.

4. Inconsistent Heating
Do some rooms in your home feel like a sauna while others are freezing? Uneven heating is a common sign that your furnace isn’t distributing heat properly. Upgrading to a modern system can eliminate cold spots and provide consistent comfort throughout your home.

5. Strange Noises or Smells
Banging, rattling, or squealing noises from your furnace aren’t just annoying—they could signal mechanical issues. Similarly, unusual odors like burning or gas may indicate a serious problem. These are signs that your system may be nearing the end of its life.

6. Poor Indoor Air Quality
If you’ve noticed increased dust, dryness, or allergies in your home, your furnace may not be filtering and circulating air effectively. Newer systems often come with advanced filtration and humidification features to improve air quality.

7. Your Furnace Can’t Keep Up
If your furnace struggles to keep your home warm during the coldest months, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for an upgrade. A properly functioning furnace should maintain your desired temperature without overworking itself.

Benefits of Upgrading Before Winter

• Energy Savings: High-efficiency furnaces can save you hundreds of dollars annually on heating costs.
• Peace of Mind: Avoid unexpected breakdowns during the harshest weather.
• Improved Comfort: Modern systems provide better heat distribution and consistent temperatures.

Don’t wait until your furnace breaks down on the coldest day of the year. If your system shows any of these signs, consider upgrading before winter hits. A new furnace is an investment in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Minnesota winters are notorious for their freezing temperatures and heavy snowfalls. To keep your home warm and comfortable, it’s crucial to prepare your HVAC system before the cold truly sets in. Here’s how to ensure your system is up to the challenge this winter.

1. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
A professional HVAC inspection is the first step to winter readiness. A technician will:

• Inspect and clean your furnace.
• Check for wear and tear on essential components.
• Ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently.
  Regular tune-ups can prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters
Dirty air filters reduce airflow and strain your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills. Make sure to replace or clean your filters every 1-3 months, especially before the heating season.

3. Seal Air Leaks
Drafty windows, doors, and ducts can cause your HVAC system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or insulation to seal leaks and improve efficiency.

4. Check Your Thermostat
Test your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning properly. If you don’t already have one, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy use and maintain consistent comfort throughout the winter.

5. Inspect and Clear Outdoor Units
If your system includes an outdoor heat pump or condenser, clear it of debris, snow, and ice. Make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper airflow.

6. Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Furnaces can produce carbon monoxide if they’re not functioning properly. Test your detectors and replace the batteries to ensure your family’s safety this winter.

7. Bleed Radiators or Check Vents
If you have a boiler system, bleed your radiators to remove trapped air for better heat distribution. For forced-air systems, clean and inspect your vents to ensure they’re not blocked.

8. Review Your Energy Bills
Unusually high energy bills might indicate your HVAC system isn’t running efficiently. Look for spikes in usage and address them with professional help if needed.

Why Prepare Early?
Minnesota winters can be unpredictable. Preparing your HVAC system in advance ensures you won’t be left in the cold during a sudden freeze or snowstorm. Plus, early preparation can save money by improving efficiency and preventing emergency repairs.


A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your HVAC system running smoothly throughout Minnesota’s brutal winters. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient home all season long.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept—it’s shaping the way we live, work, and even heat and cool our homes. In the world of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), AI is poised to make systems smarter, more efficient, and more personalized than ever.

Here’s how AI is influencing residential HVAC and what it means for homeowners:

1. Smarter Climate Control
​AI-driven HVAC systems use advanced algorithms to learn your preferences and adapt to your lifestyle. By analyzing data, these systems can automatically adjust temperatures based on factors like time of day, occupancy, and even the weather forecast, ensuring consistent comfort with minimal input from you.

2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency
AI helps HVAC systems optimize energy usage by analyzing patterns and making adjustments in real-time. For example:

• Detecting when rooms are unoccupied and reducing heating or cooling.
• Using predictive analytics to prevent energy waste during peak hours.
• Integrating with smart home devices to coordinate energy usage across appliances.

3. Predictive Maintenance
One of AI’s most exciting applications is predictive maintenance. HVAC systems equipped with AI sensors can monitor performance and detect early signs of wear and tear. This allows homeowners to:

• Address issues before they lead to costly repairs.
• Reduce system downtime by scheduling maintenance proactively.
• Extend the lifespan of their equipment.

4. Improved Indoor Air Quality
AI-powered systems can monitor air quality and automatically adjust ventilation to keep your home healthy. Features include:

• Filtering out allergens, pollutants, and harmful particles.
• Adjusting humidity levels for optimal comfort and health.
• Providing real-time air quality updates via apps or smart devices.

5. Seamless Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems
AI enables HVAC systems to integrate seamlessly with other smart devices in your home, such as:

• Voice assistants (like Alexa or Google Home) for hands-free control.
• Smart thermostats for personalized climate management.
• Lighting and shading systems to reduce energy usage based on natural light.

6. Data-Driven Insights for Homeowners
AI systems can provide homeowners with detailed insights into their energy consumption, helping them make smarter decisions about heating and cooling. Imagine receiving a monthly report that shows:

• How your usage compares to similar households.
• Suggestions for lowering your energy bills.
• Alerts about potential issues before they arise.

The Future of AI in HVAC
As AI technology continues to evolve, the potential for HVAC innovation is limitless. Future developments may include systems that:

• Communicate with utility companies to optimize energy consumption during peak times.
• Use augmented reality for remote troubleshooting and support.
• Create even more personalized and eco-friendly solutions for homeowners.

AI is revolutionizing residential HVAC by making systems smarter, more efficient, and more user-friendly. Whether it’s through predictive maintenance, seamless smart home integration, or enhanced energy efficiency, AI-powered HVAC systems offer homeowners unprecedented control and comfort. The future of heating and cooling has never been brighter—or smarter.

As Minnesota prepares for another cold winter, homeowners must ensure their HVAC systems are ready to handle the chill. One crucial factor in maintaining comfort while managing energy costs is understanding energy efficiency ratings. Let’s break down the key terms and what they mean for your home this winter.

What Are Energy Efficiency Ratings?
​Energy efficiency ratings measure how effectively your HVAC system uses energy to provide heating or cooling. Higher ratings mean better efficiency, which translates to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.

Key Ratings to Know

1. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)
   • This rating applies to furnaces and boilers. It measures the percentage of energy from fuel that is converted into usable heat.
   • Example: A furnace with 90% AFUE means 90% of the fuel is used for heating, while 10% is lost.
   • Look for systems with at least 80% AFUE for standard efficiency and 90%+ for high-efficiency units.
2. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
   • This rating applies to air conditioning and heat pumps. It measures cooling efficiency over an average cooling season.
   • While it’s less relevant in winter, if you have a heat pump, a higher SEER rating (14 or above) ensures better performance year-round.
3. HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)
   • This rating applies to heat pumps and measures heating efficiency over a season.
   • The higher the HSPF (8 or above), the more efficient the system is in cold weather.
4. Energy Star Certification
   • Systems with Energy Star certification meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, ensuring optimal performance and energy savings.

Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Winter

• Lower Energy Bills: High-efficiency systems use less energy, which can significantly reduce heating costs during Minnesota’s long, cold winters.
• Environmental Impact: Efficient systems consume less fuel, reducing your home’s carbon footprint.
• Enhanced Comfort: Modern high-efficiency systems maintain consistent temperatures more effectively than older models.

How to Check Your System’s Efficiency

• Review Manufacturer Labels: Most HVAC systems display their efficiency ratings on a label.
• Consult Your Technician: During a seasonal tune-up, ask your HVAC professional to assess your system’s efficiency and recommend upgrades if necessary.
• Consider an Energy Audit: A professional energy audit can identify areas of inefficiency in your home and HVAC system.

Upgrading for Better Efficiency
If your current system is outdated or inefficient, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit before winter. While it’s an investment, the long-term savings on energy bills and improved comfort make it worthwhile.

Understanding energy efficiency ratings helps you make informed decisions about your HVAC system and ensures your home stays warm and efficient throughout Minnesota’s harsh winter. Whether you’re upgrading your system or maintaining your current one, knowing your AFUE, SEER, and HSPF ratings is the first step toward comfort and savings.

Minnesota winters are known for their intensity, and keeping your home warm and comfortable can be challenging, especially if different rooms have varying heating needs. This is where HVAC zoning systems come into play, offering an efficient and customizable solution to maintain comfort in every corner of your home.

What Is an HVAC Zoning System?
​An HVAC zoning system divides your home into distinct zones, each with its own thermostat. Dampers within your ductwork direct airflow to specific areas, allowing you to control the temperature independently in different parts of your home.

Benefits of Zoning Systems in Cold Climates

• Personalized Comfort
  Zoning lets you set different temperatures for individual rooms or areas. For instance, keep the living room toasty while leaving unused bedrooms cooler to save energy.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency
  By only heating the areas you’re using, zoning systems reduce energy waste, which can lead to significant savings on your heating bills.
• Improved System Longevity
  By reducing the workload on your HVAC system, zoning can extend its lifespan. It prevents the system from overworking to maintain a uniform temperature throughout the house.
• Better Temperature Control for Multi-Level Homes
  Heat naturally rises, making upstairs areas warmer than lower levels. Zoning systems help balance the temperature difference, providing consistent comfort throughout the home.

How Zoning Systems Work in Cold Weather
In Minnesota’s cold climate, a zoning system allows you to optimize heat distribution based on your family’s needs. For example:

• Keep the living area warm during the day when it’s in use.
• Maintain cooler temperatures in bedrooms during the day and warm them up at night.
• Save energy by reducing heat in areas like basements or guest rooms that aren’t used regularly.

Who Benefits Most from Zoning Systems?
Zoning systems are particularly beneficial for:

• Homes with multiple levels or large square footage.
• Families with varying temperature preferences.
• Homeowners looking to reduce heating costs while maintaining comfort.

Professional Installation Is Key
While zoning systems provide significant advantages, proper installation is critical for ensuring efficiency and performance. A professional HVAC technician can design a system tailored to your home’s unique layout and heating needs.

In Minnesota’s frigid winters, an HVAC zoning system is a game-changer for maintaining comfort and energy efficiency. Whether you’re looking to save on heating costs, enjoy personalized comfort, or reduce wear on your HVAC system, zoning is a smart solution for any homeowner.

As temperatures drop in Minnesota, maintaining a warm, energy-efficient home becomes a top priority. Smart thermostats like Ecobee and Honeywell are making winter preparation easier than ever, offering advanced features designed to enhance comfort and save energy. Here’s why these thermostats stand out and how to choose the best one for your home.

Why Choose a Smart Thermostat?
Smart thermostats simplify temperature control and improve energy efficiency, making them a game-changer for homeowners. These devices allow you to customize heating schedules, monitor energy usage, and even adjust settings remotely—all while ensuring your home stays comfortable during Minnesota’s coldest months.

Key Features of Ecobee and Honeywell Smart Thermostats

1. Compatibility with Your HVAC System
Both Ecobee and Honeywell smart thermostats are designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of HVAC systems, including furnaces, heat pumps, and dual-stage systems. Ensure your specific model is compatible with your setup for smooth operation.

2. Energy-Saving Features

• Ecobee: Equipped with smart sensors that detect occupancy, Ecobee adjusts temperatures in real-time to save energy when rooms are unoccupied. Its energy reports help track usage and identify areas for improvement.
• Honeywell T9: With geofencing capabilities, Honeywell adjusts heating settings based on whether you're home or away, minimizing energy waste and maximizing efficiency.

3. Ease of Use

• Ecobee: Features an intuitive touchscreen interface and supports voice control through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
• Honeywell: The Honeywell T9 offers an easy-to-use app with scheduling features, perfect for managing your home’s climate with a few taps.

4. Zoning Capabilities
Both Ecobee and Honeywell thermostats shine in zoning features, allowing precise temperature control in different areas of your home. This is especially beneficial for larger homes or spaces with uneven heating.
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5. Weather Integration

• Ecobee: Syncs with local weather forecasts to adjust your home’s heating settings automatically based on outdoor conditions.
• Honeywell: Offers similar functionality, ensuring your home stays comfortable no matter the weather outside.

6. Remote Access
With Ecobee and Honeywell, you can control your thermostat from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. Whether you're heading home or traveling, you can ensure your space is warm and inviting upon arrival.

Top Recommendations

• Ecobee Smart Thermostat with Voice Control: This model’s standout feature is its remote room sensors, which optimize temperature for the spaces you use most. It also integrates seamlessly with smart home systems, making it a top choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
• Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat: Known for its reliable performance, the Honeywell T9 excels at zoning and scheduling, ensuring consistent comfort throughout your home.

Installing Your Smart Thermostat
While many smart thermostats are DIY-friendly, professional installation ensures proper wiring and compatibility with your HVAC system. This is particularly important for complex systems or if you’re integrating advanced features like zoning.

Smart thermostats like Ecobee and Honeywell offer unmatched convenience and efficiency, making them ideal for tackling Minnesota’s harsh winters. By upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll enjoy improved comfort, energy savings, and seamless control over your home’s heating. Don’t wait until the snow falls—make the switch today for a cozier, smarter winter.

Minnesota winters are no joke, and your furnace plays a vital role in keeping your home warm and safe. Fall is the perfect time to ensure your heating system is ready to handle the upcoming cold. Here’s how to prepare your furnace for optimal performance and energy efficiency during the winter months.

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter forces your furnace to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs. Check your filter every 1-3 months, especially before the heating season, and replace or clean it as needed.

2. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Annual furnace maintenance is essential for catching potential issues before they become expensive repairs. A technician will clean components, check for wear, and ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently.

3. Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system. Test it to ensure it’s working correctly, and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better energy management and comfort.

4. Inspect Vents and Registers
Blocked or dirty vents can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. Make sure all vents and registers are clear of furniture, rugs, and debris for optimal circulation.

5. Check for Unusual Noises or Smells
Strange sounds, like banging or whistling, and unusual odors may indicate a problem with your furnace. Don’t ignore these warning signs—call a professional to inspect your system.

6. Seal Drafts Around Your Home
Drafty windows and doors can make your furnace work overtime. Use weatherstripping and caulking to seal leaks and keep warm air inside your home.

7. Replace Batteries in Your Carbon Monoxide Detector
A well-functioning carbon monoxide detector is essential for safety during heating season. Test and replace the batteries in your detector to ensure it’s working properly.

8. Inspect and Clean Your Furnace Area
Keep the area around your furnace free of clutter and flammable materials. A clean, well-ventilated space ensures safe and efficient operation.

9. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition System
If your furnace has a pilot light, make sure it’s burning a steady blue flame. For systems with electronic ignition, consult a professional if you’re experiencing trouble starting the furnace.

10. Review Your Energy Bill
An unexplained increase in your energy bill could indicate your furnace isn’t running efficiently. Regular maintenance and repairs can help keep costs under control.

The Bottom Line
Proactive furnace maintenance ensures your system runs smoothly and safely, saving you money on repairs and energy costs. Preparing your furnace in the fall means you’ll be ready for the harsh Minnesota winters ahead.