So, what can you do?

Investing in a whole-home humidifier can help keep your family healthy, make your home more comfortable, and support HVAC efficiency all season long.

What Is a Whole-Home Humidifier?

A whole-home humidifier works with your home’s furnace or HVAC system to add moisture to the air as it circulates through your ducts. A whole-home humidification system, also called a central humidifier or furnace humidifier, maintains a consistent humidity level throughout your entire house.

There are a few common humidification options:

• Bypass humidifiers: These use the warm air from your furnace to evaporate water and circulate humidity through your ducts. These work well in small or medium-sized homes with ductwork
• Fan-powered humidifiers: This type includes a built-in fan to move air across the water panel, making them more effective for larger homes.
• Steam humidifiers: These humidifiers generate steam directly and are the most precise option for homes that need tight humidity control.

Whole-House Humidifiers vs. Portable Humidifiers

When it comes to humidification, it often comes down to a portable humidifier or a whole-home humidification system. 

While a whole-house or furnace humidifier is installed directly into your home’s HVAC system, a portable humidifier is a standalone unit. It releases moisture directly into the air in a single room. 

You have to fill the tank manually with water and plug it in. The humidifier will run until the tank is empty or the room reaches a certain humidity level.

Why Humidification Matters During Wisconsin Winters

Wisconsin’s cold, dry winters often bring indoor humidity levels below 25%. Ideally, you want your home between 30% and 50% humidity. Below that range, the dry air can impact your health and your home’s structure.

When the air gets too dry:

• Skin and sinuses become irritated: Low humidity pulls moisture from your body, leading to cracked lips, nosebleeds, and irritated throats that are both annoying and painful.
• Static electricity builds: This leads to shocks when touching random items in your home and impacts your hair and clothes. 
• Wood dries out: Flooring, doors, and furniture can shrink, crack, or warp as they lose moisture due to the dry air. 
• Allergens increase: Dry air irritates nasal passages and can make you more susceptible to colds or allergies.

The Benefits of a Whole-Home Humidifier

Installing a whole-home humidifier can improve your comfort and health during Wisconsin’s long, dry winters while protecting your home’s structure and finishes.

Healthier Air

Proper humidity helps your body’s natural defenses work better and reduces the spread of viruses. It also soothes dry skin and sinus irritation that are common in winter.

Protection for Your Home

Your hardwood floors, trim, musical instruments, and furniture will stay in better condition when the air isn’t actively drying them out.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, your whole-house humidifier runs automatically with your HVAC system. You’ll just need annual maintenance, which usually just means replacing the water panel or filter once a year.

How to Choose the Right Whole-Home Humidification System

The right humidifier depends on the size of your home, the type of furnace you have, and  what type of humidity control you’re looking for. Since each home is different, it’s best to work with an HVAC company to discuss your specific requirements. 

Our certified HVAC technicians at Martens Heating & Cooling can:

• Measure your home’s needs
• Recommend the best model and capacity
• Integrate it with your existing HVAC system
• Set up an automatic humidity control (humidistat)

Get Full Home Comfort This Winter

Living in Wisconsin, where the air gets painfully dry every winter, means that a central humidifier it’s an investment in comfort, health, and home protection. 

If you’re curious whether a whole-home humidification system makes sense for your family, the HVAC experts at Martens Heating & Cooling are here to help. Our HVAC technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities and Northeast Wisconsin, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 
• Omro

Call us today to discuss humidification options, reduce dry air, and ensure your home is comfortable this winter. 

The post Why Wisconsin Homeowners Should Consider a Whole-Home Humidifier appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

That’s where an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) comes in. Not many homeowners in the Fox Cities are familiar with ERVs, so let’s break down what these systems do and whether one might be a good fit for your home.

What Is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)?

An ERV is an HVAC device designed to bring fresh outdoor air into your home while reducing energy waste. Think of it as a system that pre-conditions the incoming air to let your house “breathe” so your furnace or air conditioner doesn’t have to work harder.

How an ERV Works

The process is fairly simple. Here’s how an ERV works:

• Exhaust air out: The ERV pushes stale indoor air back outside.
• Fresh air in: At the same time, it pulls in fresh outdoor air.
• Energy exchange: As the two air streams pass through the ERV’s core, heat and humidity are transferred. 

In the winter, the outgoing warm air pre-heats the cold air coming into your home. In summer, the cooler indoor air helps reduce the temperature and humidity in the air entering. The result is cleaner, fresher indoor air without a big spike in your heating or cooling bills.

Benefits of an ERV for Your Wisconsin Home

That all sounds great, but will you actually notice a difference in your home? YES! You’ll notice your home feels fresher and less “stuffy,” no matter the season. From improved health to increased comfort and energy efficiency, energy recovery ventilators offer numerous benefits. 

• Healthier indoor air: Getting some fresh air into your Fox Cities home helps reduce indoor pollutants, allergens, and odors throughout the year. 
• Better humidity control: Humidity control is especially useful in Wisconsin’s muggy summers and dry winters. Your home will feel comfortable no matter what Mother Nature is doing. 
• Energy efficiency: ERVs can help keep heating and cooling costs lower compared to constantly opening windows or relying on less efficient ventilation systems. 

ERVs Make Sense in Wisconsin

Like it or not, living in Wisconsin means long, cold winters that dry out the air and humid summers that make it tough to stay comfortable. An ERV helps with both of those challenges:

In the winter, you’ll keep warm air inside while still getting some fresh air, helping reduce dryness and stale air without freezing. 

And ERVs provide much-needed relief in the summer, too. They reduce the amount of sticky humidity that enters your home, keeping your home cool and dry even on the hottest days.

Because the ERV recycles energy during the air exchange, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. That means lower energy bills all year long! Sounds great, right? 

Is an ERV Right for Your Home?

If you already struggle with dry winter air or damp, sticky summer air, adding an ERV to your HVAC system could be a game changer. ERVs are a great option for:

• New, tightly sealed homes that don’t “breathe” naturally.
• Families and pet owners concerned about allergies, odors, or overall air quality. 
• Any homeowner looking to improve comfort while keeping their energy bills under control.
• Anyone who wants fresher air year-round without constantly opening their windows.

Bringing Fresh Air Back Into Wisconsin Homes

Your home should feel comfortable and healthy in every season. With an Energy Recovery Ventilator, you can enjoy fresh air without wasting energy or stressing your HVAC system.

If you’re curious whether an ERV makes sense for your home, the HVAC experts at Martens Heating & Cooling are here to help. We’ll assess your home, walk you through your options, and recommend the best solution for your family’s comfort and budget — from mini-splits to ERVs.

Our HVAC technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities and Northeast Wisconsin, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 

Call us today to ensure comfort and efficiency in your home all year round. 

The post What Wisconsin Homeowners Should Know About Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

If you want to enjoy the warmer weather without suffering from poor indoor air, UV light air purifiers and electronic air cleaners are game-changers. These powerful systems work with your HVAC system to keep your home’s air cleaner, healthier, and easier to breathe—especially during peak allergy season.

What Is a UV Light Air Purifier?

A UV (ultraviolet) light air purifier uses UV-C light to quickly kill or neutralize microscopic particles that could be floating through the air and your HVAC system. As the air passes over the UV light, it destroys airborne viruses, bacteria, and mold spores, so fewer of those irritants are recirculated into your home.

Benefits of UV Light Purifiers For Wisconsin Homeowners

• It kills mold, bacteria, and viruses, and it is great for preventing those annoying spring colds.
• Reduces unpleasant odors from mildew, pets, or cooking.
• Lowers allergy triggers like mold spores that thrive in damp basements or ductwork.

What Is an Electronic Air Cleaner?

An electronic air cleaner uses an electric charge to trap and remove dust, pollen, smoke, and pet dander from your air. The air passes through a filter that catches larger particles and moves through an electrically charged section that zaps smaller particles, causing them to stick to collector plates inside the unit. You can easily clean these plates to keep the system working at its best.

Benefits of Electronic Air Cleaners for Wisconsin Homeowners

• Captures up to 99% of airborne particles, including allergens like pollen.
• Helps reduce asthma and allergy symptoms.
• Improves airflow in your HVAC system, which can help with energy efficiency.

Why Improve Your Indoor Air Quality in Wisconsin This Spring

Wisconsin springs are unpredictable. With the dramatic temperature shifts and precipitation, we tend to keep windows closed, which impacts ventilation. That’s when UV air purifiers and electronic air cleaners become especially helpful in fighting dust, germs, pollen, and other allergens. 

Combat Seasonal Allergies

Pollen, mold, and dust are often at their highest in the spring, which is no fun for allergy sufferers. Electronic air cleaners and UV purification systems can reduce irritants, providing some much needed relief in your home. 

Fight Springtime Germs

After spending the long Wisconsin winter trapped inside, viruses and bacteria can linger in ductwork. UV lights can help eliminate them, creating a healthier space for you and your loved ones. (They’re especially helpful if you have children who tend to bring home all those school germs all year long!)  

Boost Indoor Comfort

Even if you don’t have allergies or other concerns, you’ll likely notice an immediate difference with your electronic air cleaner or UV purification system. The clean air feels fresher and helps your whole home feel more comfortable, especially on damp, rainy days.

Ready to Breathe Easier This Spring?

Let’s make this your healthiest spring yet. Adding a UV light air purifier or electronic air cleaner to your HVAC system is a smart, long-term solution for cleaner air all year round.

Serving the Appleton, Oshkosh, and the Fox Cities area, Martens Heating & Cooling has been helping Wisconsin homeowners stay comfortable for 50+ years. Our Wisconsin HVAC experts can recommend the best air purification system for your Fox Cities home and handle the installation with care.

If you’re ready to fight allergies, germs, and stale indoor air, give our HVAC experts a call today. 

Other Spring HVAC Resources for WI Homeowners

• Understanding Wisconsin’s Air Quality: Causes, Impacts, and Solutions
• 9 Spring HVAC Tips for Wisconsin Residents
• Wisconsin HVAC Spring Maintenance Checklist

The post Breathe Easy This Spring With UV Light Air Purifiers & Electronic Air Cleaners appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

But even after all that elbow grease, does your home still feel dusty? Are your allergies acting up? Does the air feel stale? 

Many homeowners don’t realize that some dust and buildup may be coming from their air ducts.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How often should I clean my air ducts?” or “Is air duct cleaning worth it?”,  you’re not alone. For many homeowners, air duct cleaning is often overlooked, yet it plays an important role in your home’s air quality, comfort, and HVAC efficiency.

Here’s what you should know before scheduling duct cleaning.

What Do Air Ducts Actually Do?

Your ductwork is the delivery system for your heating and cooling. Every time your furnace or AC runs, air moves through your ducts and into every room of your home.

Over time, dust, pet dander, allergens, and debris can collect inside those ducts. In Wisconsin, long winters mean your windows stay shut, and that buildup can circulate through your home again and again.

If your ductwork is damaged, poorly sealed, or aging, it may also contribute to uneven airflow and reduced efficiency.

Learn more about our professional ductwork fabrication services.

Signs Your Air Ducts May Need Cleaning

Not every home needs frequent duct cleaning. However, you may want to consider it if you notice:

• Visible dust blowing from vents
• A musty or stale odor when your system runs
• Excessive dust buildup in your home shortly after cleaning
• Increased allergy or respiratory symptoms indoors
• Rodent or pest issues in the past
• Recent remodeling or construction work
• Uneven airflow or rooms that feel stuffy

Spring is often when homeowners start noticing allergy symptoms, making this the perfect time to evaluate your indoor air system.

How Often Should Air Ducts Be Cleaned?

For most homes, professional air duct cleaning is recommended every 3–5 years. However, you may need it sooner if you have pets that shed a ton, you or someone in your home suffers from severe allergies or asthma, or your home is older with aging ductwork.

The key is to have your system evaluated by a professional HVAC team to determine whether cleaning is truly necessary.

Can I Clean My Air Ducts Myself?

Homeowners can take small steps to improve air quality, such as:

• Replacing HVAC filters regularly (every 1–3 months)
• Vacuuming vents and registers
• Scheduling seasonal HVAC maintenance

However, full duct cleaning requires specialized equipment designed to remove buildup safely and thoroughly without damaging your system.

Improper cleaning can actually dislodge debris and push it further into your HVAC system, potentially causing more harm than good. So in most cases its better to leave the work to the professionals.

Why Clean Air Ducts Matter for Your Health & Comfort

Clean ductwork can help reduce circulating dust and allergens, support better airflow ans improve overall indoor air quality. It will also help your HVAC system operate more efficiently and extend the life of your heating and cooling systems. 

If you’re already exploring ways to improve your home’s air quality, you may also want to consider additional solutions like whole-home air purifiers, humidifiers, or filtration upgrades.

Explore Martens’ Air Quality Services here.

Duct Cleaning vs. Air Purification

Air duct cleaning removes existing buildup inside your ductwork while air purification solutions actively reduce allergens, bacteria, and airborne particles, improving the quality of the air circulating in your home.

If you or someone in your home struggles with severe allergies, having regular cleanings and an air purification system will give you the best results for your health.

When to Call a Professional for Duct Cleaning

If you’re unsure whether your home’s air ducts need cleaning, we are here to help.

At Martens Heating & Cooling, we can evaluate your ductwork, airflow, and indoor air quality. If cleaning makes sense, we’ll explain why. If it doesn’t, we’ll tell you that too.

Our goal is simple: help you breathe easier and keep your HVAC system running efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Duct Cleaning

How often should air ducts be cleaned?

Most homes should have the air ducts cleaned every 3-5 years. If you have pets, severe allergies, asthma, or older home ductwork, you may want to clean them more frequently.

What are the signs my air ducts need cleaning?

Common signs include dust collecting or blowing from vents, musty odors when your HVAC is running, dust building up on surfaces shortly after cleaning, worsening allergies, or uneven airflow in parts of your home.

Is air duct cleaning worth it?

It can definitely be worth it! Duct cleaning can help reduce circulating debris, improve airflow, and overall comfort when paired with proper filtration and HVAC maintenance. Not to mention it will increase your system’s efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

Can I clean my air ducts myself?

You can vacuum vent covers and replace filters regularly, but deep duct cleaning requires professional tools. DIY attempts can dislodge debris and push it deeper into the system, possibly damaging your system. It’s usually best to have a professional evaluate and safely clean your ducts.

Does duct cleaning help with allergies?

Duct cleaning may help reduce the amount of dust and allergens circulating through your home, especially if there’s buildup in the system. For the best results during allergy season, many homeowners also consider whole-home air purification or filtration upgrades.

Get Air Quality Help From a Local HVAC Team You Can Trust

Located in Omro, Martens Heating & Cooling proudly serves homeowners throughout the Fox Cities, including Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, and surrounding communities. We are more than happy to help with your spring cleaning, manage your allergies, or simply improve your air quality.

Call Martens Heating & Cooling today! We’ll assess your system, answer your questions, and help you determine the right solution for your home, no pressure, just honest local service.

The post Do I Need to Clean My Air Ducts? What Homeowners Should Know appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

As we begin spending more time indoors with windows closed and furnaces running, poor indoor air quality can exacerbate symptoms. Dust, pet dander, mold, and airborne viruses become trapped inside, contributing to stuffy noses, itchy eyes, and sore throats. 

If you’ve ever searched:

• “Why are my allergies worse in the winter?”
• “Can my HVAC system help prevent colds?”
• “How do I improve indoor air quality in winter?”
• “Why does my house feel stuffy during winter?”

You’re not alone.

Dust, pet dander, mold spores, viruses, and dry air all get trapped inside during the colder months. Without proper filtration and humidity control, these pollutants continue circulating through your home.

Let’s break down what’s really happening and how your HVAC system can help protect your family’s health.

Wisconsin’s Common Indoor Allergens

Dust Mites 

Dust mites thrive in heated indoor environments and can trigger allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny noses, and asthma flare-ups, which can make breathing difficult.

Pet Dander 

Pet dander increases as pets spend more time indoors during cold months, causing allergic reactions that can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma or lead to persistent congestion.

Mold Spores

Mold is common in areas with poor humidity control. When inhaled, mold spores can aggravate asthma, cause allergic reactions, or even lead to long-term respiratory issues.

Indoor Air Pollution 

As we prepare for holiday gatherings with loved ones, many of us do extra cleaning and cooking throughout the winter months. Poor ventilation and pollutants from cleaning products or cooking can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and exacerbate chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Cold & Flu Viruses

Viruses that spread easily in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces are common during Wisconsin winters, leading to frequent illnesses that can weaken the immune system and leave individuals vulnerable to further infections.

Dry Air Irritation

Dry indoor air from heating systems can irritate the respiratory system, causing sore throats and nosebleeds and making it easier for viruses to penetrate the body.

Pollen

Though primarily a spring issue, pollen can linger indoors on clothes or pets during the winter season, triggering allergic reactions that cause coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes, especially for allergy sufferers in Wisconsin.

How HVAC Systems Can Prevent Sickness and Allergies

Advanced HVAC Filtration

At Martens Heating and Cooling, we can equip your HVAC system with HEPA filters and UV light systems that capture allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and airborne viruses. By preventing these irritants from circulating in the air you breathe, you can reduce allergy symptoms and the spread of airborne illnesses this fall and winter.

Improved Air Quality

Focusing on improving your air quality can help remove harmful particles from circulating in your home, reduce respiratory irritants that trigger asthma or allergies, and lead to a noticeable improvement in indoor air freshness and cleanliness. 

Cleaner Indoor Environment

By upgrading your HVAC system with the correct filters and UV light systems, you can create a healthier space by minimizing airborne contaminants, making it easier to breathe. This is especially beneficial for those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.

The team at Martens Heating and Cooling can help you choose the best air filters and HVAC solutions for your home to help prevent winter sickness and allergies this season. 

HVAC Humidity Control

Humidity control regulates moisture levels and helps prevent mold growth in high-humidity areas. Mold can trigger or worsen allergies and respiratory issues such as sneezing, itchy eyes, labored breathing, and more. 

Prevent the buildup of humidity with stand-alone dehumidification or ducted options from Martens Heating and Cooling. Dehumidifiers balance indoor humidity, keeping mold and dust mites, both common allergens, at bay. This reduces the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory irritation. 

These options remove humidity and are cheaper to operate than the units you would normally buy from big box stores. 

Dry Air Irritation Reduction With Humidifiers

Integrating humidifiers into your home can help add moisture to the air during the winter months. Added moisture helps prevent dry respiratory tracts and lowers susceptibility to colds and viruses, which thrive in overly dry environments.

Regular HVAC Maintenance is Key

Regular maintenance is key to making sure your HVAC system performs at its highest level and keeps your indoor air clean. By routinely changing filters every 30 to 90 days, cleaning ducts, and scheduling professional inspections, you can prevent the buildup of dust, allergens, and other airborne contaminants that can worsen cold and allergy symptoms. 

Over time, neglected HVAC systems can become less efficient, circulating unfiltered air and contributing to poor indoor air quality. Regular maintenance not only improves air quality but also extends the life of your system, reduces energy costs, and helps your home remain a healthy and comfortable environment during the winter months.

Is Your HVAC System Making Your Allergies Worse?

Many homeowners don’t realize their system could be contributing to poor air quality if:

• Filters are clogged
• Ductwork is leaking or dirty
• Humidity levels are unbalanced
• Maintenance has been skipped

Addressing these issues can dramatically improve indoor comfort, especially for families with asthma or allergies.

Contact the Experts at Martens Heating and Cooling

If you need more HVAC tips or have questions about helping to keep your Appleton, Oshkosh, or Neenah-area home cold and allergen-free this winter, or if your current HVAC unit needs repairs or replacement, contact the experts at Martens Heating and Cooling today! 

With extensive knowledge and experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry, our Omro-based team can provide valuable insights, guidance, and solutions tailored to your home or business. 

Whether you’re seeking advice on system maintenance, troubleshooting issues, or considering replacing your HVAC unit, our team is here to help. Our technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities area, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 

Call us today to ensure your HVAC unit continues to run smoothly and efficiently while keeping you healthy throughout Wisconsin’s cold weather season. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Indoor Air Quality

Can my HVAC system help prevent colds?

While your HVAC system cannot eliminate viruses entirely, proper filtration, ventilation, and humidity control can reduce airborne particles and improve overall indoor air quality, which may help reduce the spread of illness.

Why are allergies worse in the winter?

Closed windows, trapped indoor allergens, increased pet dander, and dry air all contribute to worsened allergy symptoms during winter months.

Does a humidifier help with winter colds?

Yes. Proper humidity levels can reduce throat and nasal irritation and make it harder for certain viruses to thrive.

How often should I change my furnace filter in winter?

Most homes should replace filters every 30–90 days for 1-inch thick filters and 3-6 months for 4-inch thick filters. Homes with pets or allergy sufferers may need more frequent changes and should check them monthly.

The post Winter Colds & Allergies in Wisconsin: How Your HVAC System Can Help Keep Indoor Air Clean appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

How Long Does an HVAC Unit Last?

The lifespan of an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) unit depends on many factors, including its type, usage, maintenance, and overall quality. On average, a well-maintained central air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and addressing any minor issues immediately, can significantly extend the life of an HVAC unit. Overworking the system can lead to premature wear and a shorter lifespan. 

Technological advancements such as smart thermostats and energy efficiency improvements may influence the decision to replace an older unit with a more modern and efficient one before its natural end of life. 

How do I Test an HVAC Low-Pressure Switch?

Testing an HVAC low-pressure switch is a crucial step in diagnosing potential issues with the system. 

• To test the low-pressure switch, begin by turning off the HVAC unit and disconnecting the power supply. 
• Locate the low-pressure switch, usually situated on the suction line of the compressor. Using a multimeter, set it to the continuity or resistance setting. 
• Disconnect the wires connected to the switch and attach the multimeter probes to the switch terminals. 
• With the system off, there should be continuity or low resistance across the switch terminals. 
• Next, turn on the HVAC unit and monitor the multimeter readings. As the system operates, the pressure should rise, causing the switch to open, and the multimeter should indicate infinite resistance or an open circuit. 
• If the switch fails to open when the pressure increases, it may be faulty and in need of replacement. 

Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines as you test your HVAC low-pressure switch. If you’re having trouble or want to ensure it’s done correctly, consider seeking professional assistance from the team at Martens Heating and Cooling.

Is a Boiler HVAC or Plumbing?

A boiler is typically considered part of the HVAC system rather than strictly falling under plumbing. 

While the plumbing system is responsible for transporting water throughout a building, including the delivery of hot water, a boiler specifically functions to heat water or produce steam for heating purposes. 

Boilers are important components of HVAC systems designed to regulate indoor temperature by distributing warm air or steam. The connection between plumbing and HVAC is showcased by the pipes that carry hot water or steam from the boiler to various heating elements, such as radiators or underfloor heating systems. 

Is HVAC and Furnace the Same Thing?

No, HVAC and a furnace are not the same things. 

HVAC refers to a comprehensive system that includes heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components, encompassing a range of technologies and devices designed to regulate indoor temperature, air quality, and humidity. 

On the other hand, a furnace is a specific heating device within the HVAC system responsible for generating heat. Furnaces can use various fuel sources, such as natural gas, electricity, or oil, to produce warm air that is then distributed throughout a building via ductwork. 

Do All HVAC Systems Have a Fresh Air Intake?

Not all HVAC systems have a dedicated fresh air intake since it depends on the specific design and purpose of the system. While some systems may incorporate a fresh air intake to introduce outside air into the space, others rely solely on recirculating and conditioning the indoor air. 

The inclusion of a fresh air intake is more common in commercial buildings and modern residential constructions that prioritize energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Systems with outside air intakes help ensure a continuous supply of fresh air and reduce the buildup of pollutants indoors.

How Can I Defrost My HVAC Unit in the Winter?

Defrosting an HVAC unit may be essential for maintaining optimal performance, particularly for heat pump systems, during the brutal Wisconsin winters. If you notice ice accumulation on the outdoor unit, turn off the system to prevent potential damage. Contact an HVAC contractor since attempting to chip away the ice can harm the components; if the unit is frozen, there is an issue with your system. 

Ensure that the system’s air filters are clean and replace them if necessary — clogged filters can contribute to freezing. Also, check for any obstructions around the unit, such as snowdrifts or debris, and clear them to facilitate proper airflow. 

Running the system in “defrost mode,” if available, can also help melt ice buildup. Locating the defrost mode on your HVAC unit can vary depending on the specific make and model of the system. Typically, defrost mode is a feature found in heat pump systems, as they are the most likely to experience ice buildup on the outdoor unit during colder temperatures. 

• Check the User Manual. Start by consulting the user manual that came with your HVAC unit. Manufacturers provide specific instructions on operating modes and features, including defrost mode.
• Thermostat Settings. In some cases, the defrost mode is controlled through the thermostat. Look for a specific setting or mode related to defrost. It might be labeled as “Defrost,” “Emergency Heat,” or have a snowflake icon.
• Inspect the Outdoor Unit. Examine the outdoor unit for any labeled switches or buttons related to defrost mode. Some systems may have a physical switch on the unit itself.
• Digital Controls. If your HVAC system has a digital control panel or interface, navigate through the settings to find the defrost option. This may involve scrolling through menu options or pressing specific buttons.

Remember that not all HVAC systems have a manual defrost mode, as many modern units are equipped with automatic defrost controls. In this case, the system will initiate defrost cycles as needed without manual intervention. 

If the problem continues or if you’re unsure about the appropriate steps, contact the professionals at Martens Heating and Cooling. One of our trusted HVAC technicians can assess and address the issue.

What is the HVAC Unit Outside Called?

The HVAC unit located outside is commonly referred to as the “condenser unit” or “condensing unit.” 

This essential component of the HVAC system is responsible for releasing heat absorbed from inside the building. In the case of an air conditioning system or a heat pump, the condenser unit contains the compressor and condenser coils. During the cooling process, warm air from inside the building is transferred to the outdoor condenser unit, where it releases heat, and the refrigerant cools down to be recirculated. 

The condenser unit typically sits adjacent to the building or on the roof, and it plays a crucial role in the heat exchange process that allows the HVAC system to effectively regulate indoor temperature.

Contact the Experts at Martens Heating and Cooling Today

If you have any further questions or concerns about the HVAC unit in your Fox Cities home, reach out to the experts at Martens Heating and Cooling. With extensive knowledge and experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry, our team can provide valuable insights, guidance, and solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

Whether you’re seeking advice on system maintenance, troubleshooting issues, or are considering replacing your unit, our team is here to help. Our technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities area, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 

Call us today to ensure your HVAC unit continues to run smoothly throughout the new year.

The post Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Units appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.