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The HVAC industry is undergoing a major shift as regulations and environmental concerns drive the transition away from high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants. This shift affects both homeowners and HVAC professionals, as new refrigerants bring changes in equipment, maintenance, and efficiency. If you’re in the market for a new system or simply want to stay informed, here’s what you need to know about the move toward low-GWP refrigerants. Why the Change? For decades, HVAC systems have relied on refrigerants like R-410A, which, while effective, have a high GWP. As concerns about climate change grow, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and international regulatory bodies are pushing for alternatives that minimize environmental impact. New refrigerants, such as R-32 and R-454B, offer similar cooling performance but with a significantly lower GWP, reducing their contribution to global warming. What Refrigerants Are Being Phased Out? The refrigerant phase-out is happening in stages. R-22, commonly known as Freon, was largely phased out in 2020 due to its ozone-depleting properties. Now, R-410A is on its way out, with production and import restrictions ramping up through 2025 and beyond. These changes mean that HVAC manufacturers are shifting their focus to next-generation refrigerants that comply with new environmental standards. What Are the New Refrigerants? Several new refrigerants are emerging as viable alternatives to high-GWP options: R-32 : Already in use in many parts of the world, R-32 has about one-third the GWP of R-410A and offers improved energy efficiency. R-454B : Designed as a direct replacement for R-410A, R-454B provides similar performance with a GWP nearly 80% lower. CO2 (R-744) and Propane (R-290) : While not yet mainstream for residential applications, these natural refrigerants are gaining traction in specialized HVAC applications due to their ultra-low GWP. How This Affects Homeowners and HVAC Professionals For homeowners, the transition means that future HVAC purchases will involve systems designed for these new refrigerants. While existing R-410A systems will still be serviceable for years, repairs and refrigerant refills may become more expensive as supplies dwindle. Upgrading to a new system with low-GWP refrigerants can improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. For HVAC professionals, staying up to date with the latest refrigerants and handling guidelines is essential. Many of the new refrigerants are classified as “mildly flammable,” requiring technicians to follow updated safety protocols and certification requirements. What’s Next? The transition to low-GWP refrigerants is just one piece of the larger sustainability movement in HVAC. As governments and manufacturers invest in greener technologies, expect to see continued advancements in system efficiency, heat pumps, and smart climate control solutions. Homeowners and businesses alike should consider upgrading to newer systems sooner rather than later to take advantage of incentives and long-term energy savings. Are you considering a new HVAC system or wondering how these changes affect you? Contact our team at Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical for expert guidance on the latest HVAC technology and environmentally friendly solutions.

When winter hits Hailey, Idaho, your furnace works overtime to keep your home warm and comfortable. But did you know that one of the easiest ways to maintain your heating system’s efficiency is by regularly changing the furnace filter? Many homeowners overlook this simple task, leading to increased energy costs, poor indoor air quality, and potential damage to their HVAC system. So, how often should you change your furnace filter? Let’s break it down. Why Changing Your Furnace Filter Matters Your furnace filter traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home. A clean filter ensures proper airflow, reduces strain on your furnace, and improves indoor air quality. Neglecting this maintenance step can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. How Often Should You Change It? The answer depends on several factors, including filter type, household conditions, and how often you use your furnace. Here’s a general guideline: Basic fiberglass filters: Every 30 days Pleated filters: Every 60–90 days High-efficiency HEPA filters: Every 6–12 months Homes with pets: Every 30–60 days Allergy sufferers: Every 30 days Heavy furnace usage (winter months): Every 30–45 days If your home has multiple occupants, pets, or someone with allergies, it’s best to check the filter monthly and replace it as needed. Signs Your Furnace Filter Needs Replacing Even if you follow a set schedule, your furnace may give you signals that the filter needs to be changed sooner. Look for these signs: Increased Dust in Your Home – If you notice more dust accumulating, your filter may be too clogged to trap particles efficiently. Reduced Airflow – A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system less effective at heating your home. Higher Energy Bills – If your heating costs are rising without a temperature change, a dirty filter may be making your furnace work harder. Strange Furnace Noises – A struggling system may produce unusual sounds, signaling it’s time for maintenance. Visible Dirt and Debris on the Filter – If your filter looks clogged, it's time to replace it. The Bottom Line Regularly replacing your furnace filter is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your heating system’s efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Not only will this improve your indoor air quality, but it will also keep your energy bills in check and prevent costly repairs. Need HVAC Maintenance? Call the Experts! If you’re unsure about your furnace’s condition or need professional maintenance, Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical is here to help.

As temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, your furnace is working hard to keep your home warm. But what happens when you start hearing strange noises coming from your heating system? Unusual furnace sounds can be an early warning sign of trouble, and ignoring them could lead to costly repairs down the road. Here are some common furnace noises and what they might mean. 1. Banging or Booming If you hear a loud banging or booming sound when your furnace kicks on, it could indicate a delayed ignition problem. This occurs when gas builds up before igniting, causing a small explosion. If left unchecked, this issue can damage your furnace’s heat exchanger, leading to costly repairs or even system failure. Possible Causes: Dirty burners preventing proper ignition Low gas pressure Ignition system malfunction What to Do: Turn off your furnace and call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the burners or adjust the gas pressure. 2. Squealing or Screeching High-pitched squealing or screeching noises are often linked to issues with the blower motor or fan belt. Over time, belts can become loose or worn, and motor bearings may need lubrication. Possible Causes: Worn-out or loose blower belt Motor bearings in need of lubrication Malfunctioning blower motor What to Do: Schedule a furnace inspection to replace belts, lubricate motor bearings, and ensure everything is running smoothly. 3. Rattling or Vibrating A rattling or vibrating furnace could be a sign of loose components or ductwork. If you hear metal-on-metal sounds, it may indicate a more serious mechanical issue. Possible Causes: Loose screws or panels Unsecured ductwork Failing blower motor What to Do: Check for loose screws and panels and tighten them if necessary. If the rattling persists, have an HVAC technician inspect your system. 4. Clicking Sounds While it’s normal to hear some clicking when your furnace turns on and off, excessive clicking could be a sign of a failing ignition system or a faulty relay. Possible Causes: Faulty ignition system Defective flame sensor Electrical component issues What to Do: If the clicking is persistent or your furnace struggles to ignite, call a professional for a thorough inspection. 5. Whistling or Hissing A whistling or hissing noise often indicates an airflow restriction or a gas leak. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your furnace immediately and evacuate your home. Possible Causes: Dirty or clogged air filter Leaky ductwork Gas leak (if accompanied by a sulfur smell) What to Do: Replace your air filter and check for any visible duct leaks. If you smell gas, leave your home and call your gas provider or HVAC professional immediately. When to Call a Professional If your furnace is making strange noises that persist after simple troubleshooting, don’t ignore the warning signs. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide expert furnace repairs and maintenance to keep your system running safely and efficiently.

When the temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, the last thing you want is for your furnace to start blowing cold air. A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn your cozy home into an icebox, making it crucial to identify and address the issue as soon as possible. Here are some common reasons why your furnace might be blowing cold air and what you can do about it. 1. Your Thermostat Settings Need Adjustment Before assuming the worst, check your thermostat settings. Ensure it is set to "Heat" and not "Fan" or "Cool." If the fan is set to "On," it will blow air continuously, even when the furnace isn't actively heating. Switching the fan to "Auto" allows it to only run when heat is being produced. 2. Your Furnace Filter is Clogged A dirty or clogged furnace filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat. When this happens, your furnace's safety mechanism may shut down the burners, allowing only cold air to circulate. Check your filter and replace it if it's dirty. 3. The Pilot Light is Out If you have an older gas furnace, a blown-out pilot light could be the reason for the lack of heat. Check to see if the pilot light is lit. If it's out, relighting it might solve the problem. However, if it continues to go out, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply that requires professional assistance. 4. Your Furnace is Overheating An overheating furnace may shut itself down as a safety precaution, leaving only the blower running, which results in cold air blowing through the vents. Common causes of overheating include a clogged filter, blocked vents, or mechanical failures. If replacing the filter doesn't help, it's time to call in an HVAC professional. 5. There’s a Problem with the Gas Supply If your furnace isn't getting enough gas, it won't be able to produce heat. Check other gas appliances in your home to see if they're working properly. If there's an issue with your gas supply, contact your utility company or a licensed HVAC technician. 6. Your Ductwork Has Leaks Leaks in your ductwork can allow warm air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, leaving you with cold air blowing from your vents. If you suspect ductwork issues, an HVAC professional can inspect and seal any leaks to restore efficiency. When to Call a Professional If you've checked your thermostat, changed your filter, and your furnace is still blowing cold air, it's time to call the experts. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide professional furnace repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.

Winter in Hailey, Idaho, can be brutal, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. The last thing you want is for your furnace to break down when you need it most. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home warm all season long. Here are five signs your furnace might need a tune-up before winter fully sets in. ## 1. **Uneven Heating or Cold Spots** Do you notice that some rooms in your home are much warmer than others? Uneven heating could indicate a clogged air filter, issues with your ductwork, or a struggling furnace that needs attention. A professional tune-up can diagnose the issue and ensure every corner of your home stays cozy. ## 2. **Strange Noises Coming from Your Furnace** Your furnace should run relatively quietly. If you hear banging, rattling, whistling, or squealing sounds, it could be a sign of a mechanical issue, such as a loose belt or a failing blower motor. Ignoring these noises can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. ## 3. **Unusual or Burning Smells** A musty smell could mean mold in your ducts, while a burning odor might indicate an electrical issue. If you notice a persistent gas smell, **turn off your furnace immediately and call for emergency service**. A routine furnace inspection can catch minor issues before they become major hazards. ## 4. **Rising Energy Bills** If your energy bills are climbing despite keeping your thermostat settings the same, your furnace could be working harder than necessary due to dirty filters, worn-out components, or inefficiency. A professional tune-up can restore your furnace's performance and help you save money on heating costs. ## 5. **Your Furnace is Short-Cycling** Short-cycling happens when your furnace turns on and off frequently without completing a full heating cycle. This can be caused by a dirty filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an overheating furnace. A tune-up can pinpoint the problem and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your system. ## **Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up Today** Don’t wait until your furnace breaks down on the coldest night of the year. At **Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical**, we offer professional furnace maintenance and repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. 📞 **Call us today at 208-726-5261 to schedule your furnace tune-up!** Or visit our website to book an appointment online. ### **Stay warm, Hailey!**