Improving Indoor Air Quality: Essential Tips for Winter When Air Gets Stale

November 23, 2025

Winter in Burbank brings cooler nights and more time spent indoors. With windows closed and heaters running, indoor air can start to feel stale or uncomfortable. According to the EPA, people spend about 90% of their time indoors. The EPA also reports that indoor air pollution is often two to five times higher than outdoor levels. This makes winter an important time to pay attention to the air you breathe. Certified Service has helped families and businesses maintain healthy and comfortable indoor environments since 1972. Here are a few ways you can improve your indoor air quality this winter. Understand Why Indoor Air Gets Stale in Winter Keeping windows closed can keep warm air in, but it also reduces natural ventilation and allows dust, allergens, and household pollutants to build up. Heating systems also recirculate the same air, which can make the problem more noticeable. The California Air Resources Board notes that everyday items like cleaning products, gas appliances, and building materials can also contribute to poor indoor air quality. Replace Air Filters Regularly Dirty filters allow dust, pet dander, and other particles to spread throughout the home. Replace filters every 30 to 90 days to help your heating system...

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How a Heat Pump Can Improve Your Home’s Comfort and Efficiency Year-Round

October 13, 2025

Keeping your home comfortable throughout every season doesn’t have to mean higher energy costs. A heat pump is an effective solution that provides both heating and cooling in one system, helping you stay comfortable no matter the temperature outside. How Heat Pumps Work A heat pump doesn’t generate heat; it transfers it. During the colder months, it pulls warmth from the outdoor air and moves it inside your home. When the weather gets warmer, it reverses the process by removing heat from inside and releasing it outdoors. This ability to both heat and cool makes it a versatile and energy-efficient option for year-round comfort. Because a heat pump moves heat instead of creating it, it uses far less energy than traditional heating or cooling systems. That efficiency makes it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to stay comfortable while managing energy costs. Consistent Comfort for Every Season Heat pumps deliver steady, even comfort throughout your home. Instead of producing bursts of hot or cold air, they circulate air at a consistent temperature, reducing temperature swings and keeping each room more evenly balanced. Many modern systems also include humidity control, which helps maintain a healthier indoor environment. This feature is especially...

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Fall Furnace Maintenance: Get Your Heating System Ready for Winter

September 15, 2025

The last thing you want when temperatures drop is to discover that your furnace isn’t working like it should. Fall is the ideal time to prep your heating system so it runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably all winter long. Why Fall Furnace Maintenance Matters Your furnace has likely been sitting idle all summer. Dust, dirt, and wear from last season can build up and impact performance. Skipping a seasonal checkup can lead to higher energy bills, poor airflow, and even unexpected breakdowns when you need heat the most. A professional furnace tune-up helps us catch potential problems early—before they turn into costly repairs. It also gives us a chance to optimize performance so your system runs efficiently all season. What Happens During a Furnace Tune-Up A fall furnace check involves more than just turning the system on. We perform a full inspection and service that typically includes: Checking and replacing air filters Inspecting burners and flame sensors Cleaning internal components Testing safety controls Calibrating the thermostat Inspecting the blower motor and belts Checking gas lines and connections Each of these steps helps protect your system from strain and keeps everything running smoothly, especially during peak heating months. Benefits of Seasonal...

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Summer AC Problems: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

August 25, 2025

Hot summer days in Burbank can quickly go from uncomfortable to unbearable if your air conditioning isn’t working properly. If your system starts acting up, it’s usually one of a few common issues that pop up more frequently during the hotter months. Refrigerant Leaks Low refrigerant is one of the most common causes of warm air blowing from the vents. If the refrigerant level drops, your AC can’t cool your home effectively. This usually happens due to a leak somewhere in the system. Topping off the refrigerant won’t fix the problem long-term — the source of the leak needs to be found and sealed by an AC repair expert before recharging the system. Dirty Air Filters A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which puts extra strain on the system and reduces its cooling power. It can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze, leading to poor performance or complete system shutdown. Replacing your filters regularly helps keep air moving freely and your system running efficiently. Frozen Evaporator Coils Frozen coils can be caused by poor airflow (often from a dirty filter) or low refrigerant. When the coils freeze, your system can’t absorb heat, which prevents it from cooling your home....

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Maximizing Your Air Conditioner’s Performance During Peak Summer Heat

July 2, 2025

When the summer heat in Burbank is relentless, your air conditioner becomes a necessity. But running it full blast day after day can take a toll on its performance. The good news is, there are practical ways to help your system run more efficiently and keep your home comfortable no matter how high the temperature climbs. Read on for essential tips from our cooling services team. Keep the Airflow Clear and Consistent Good airflow is essential for optimal AC performance. If vents or registers are blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs, it makes your system work overtime to push air through your home. Walk through each room and make sure nothing is obstructing the vents. Also, check the outdoor unit. Overgrown bushes, tall grass, or debris around the condenser can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Giving it a two-foot buffer zone helps it breathe and function properly. Replace Filters Regularly One of the easiest ways to keep your AC performing well is to replace or clean your air filter. A clogged filter limits airflow, reduces indoor air quality, and forces your system to work harder than necessary. Most homes benefit from monthly filter checks, especially during peak use in summer....

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Why Performance AC Tune-Ups Are Necessary

June 2, 2025

Your air conditioner works hard during the hottest months, and like any piece of equipment, it needs regular attention to keep performing at its best. A performance AC tune-up is more than just a routine check. It plays a key role in the efficiency, reliability, and lifespan of your cooling system. Keep Energy Costs Down Over time, your AC system naturally experiences wear that can cause it to work harder than it should. Dirty coils, clogged filters, or weak airflow all contribute to higher energy use. A tune-up helps your system run more efficiently, which can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills. Catch Problems Early Minor issues that go unnoticed can quickly turn into major headaches. During a tune-up, a technician can spot early signs of trouble, like a failing capacitor or low refrigerant, before they lead to expensive repairs or system failure. Improve Overall Performance A well-tuned system cools your home more evenly and consistently. You’re less likely to experience hot spots, weak airflow, or frequent cycling. That means your home stays more comfortable, even on the hottest days of summer. Reduce Strain on the System When parts aren’t clean or aligned properly, your AC has to...

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Is Your AC Ready for Summer? Essential Preseason Maintenance Tips

May 4, 2025

A little preparation before summer hits Burbank, CA can make a big difference in how well your AC system performs when you need it most. By taking a few simple steps now, you can help avoid breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and stay comfortable all season long. Check and Replace Your Air Filter Your AC’s air filter plays a major role in both airflow and indoor air quality. A clogged or dirty filter forces your system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and added wear and tear. We recommend checking your filter monthly and replacing it if it looks dirty. During peak cooling months, this small step can have a noticeable impact. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit The outdoor condenser unit needs plenty of space to release heat properly. Leaves, branches, or other debris around the unit can block airflow and reduce performance. Take a few minutes to trim back plants, clear away buildup, and make sure there’s at least two feet of open space on all sides. Check Your Thermostat Settings Before the heat hits full force, test your thermostat to confirm it’s working properly. Set it to cooling mode and listen for the system...

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How to Prepare Your AC Ducts for Efficient Cooling All Spring

April 1, 2025

Leaky ducts can lead to wasted energy and uneven cooling throughout your home. Before the summer heat sets in, check your ducts for visible gaps, disconnected sections, or damaged insulation. If you notice weak airflow in certain rooms, it could be a sign of leaks within the system. A professional duct inspection can help pinpoint problem areas and improve efficiency. Clean Your Vents and Registers Over time, dust, pet dander, and debris accumulate in vents and registers, restricting airflow. To keep your cooling system running smoothly: Remove vent covers and wipe away dust buildup. Vacuum inside the vents to clear out any trapped dirt Make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking airflow Blocked vents force your system to work harder than necessary, reducing overall efficiency and increasing energy costs Replace or Clean Your Air Filters A clogged air filter reduces airflow and makes your system struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature. Check your filter monthly and replace it as needed. A clean filter helps improve indoor air quality and allows your cooling system to operate at peak performance. Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning Dust and allergens accumulate inside ductwork over time, restricting airflow and affecting air quality. A professional duct cleaning...

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Spring HVAC Maintenance: Why It’s the Perfect Time to Check Your Air Conditioning System

March 1, 2025

Spring is the ideal time to schedule maintenance for your air conditioning system. As temperatures start to rise in Burbank, CA, you want to make sure your AC is in top shape before the heat of summer arrives. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, keeps your home comfortable, and helps prevent costly breakdowns when you need cooling the most. Why Spring Maintenance Matters Seasonal maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently and extending its lifespan. Over time, dust, dirt, and wear and tear can take a toll on your system, leading to reduced performance and higher energy bills. Regular maintenance helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Here’s why spring is the best time for an AC tune-up: Warmer weather is approaching, making it the perfect time to prepare your system. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your AC is ready before temperatures soar. Spring maintenance helps improve energy efficiency, reducing cooling costs. Technicians have better availability before peak summer demand. Addressing minor issues now can help prevent mid-summer breakdowns. What’s Included in an AC Tune-Up? A professional HVAC technician will inspect and service key components of your system to keep it running smoothly. A...

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The Importance of Indoor Air Quality: Keep Your Home Safe and Healthy This Winter

February 3, 2025

As temperatures drop and we spend more time indoors, the quality of the air inside your home becomes increasingly important. Winter often means sealed windows and limited ventilation, creating the perfect environment for pollutants to accumulate. Understanding the impact of indoor air quality can help protect your health and comfort throughout the colder months. Importance of Avoiding Low Indoor Air Quality in Winter Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, from minor irritations like dry eyes and sore throats to more serious conditions such as respiratory infections, asthma flare-ups, and allergies. Dust, pet dander, mold spores, and even common household products can contribute to indoor pollution. In winter, these pollutants can become trapped inside, circulating through your home and affecting everyone’s well-being. Common Causes of Low Winter IAQ During winter, heating systems can contribute to indoor air problems. Furnaces and space heaters can release particles and gases if not properly maintained. Additionally, increased use of candles, fireplaces, and even cooking can introduce pollutants like carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Dry winter air can also exacerbate respiratory discomfort, making humidification an important factor in maintaining comfort. Lastly, increased time spent indoors during winter means...

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