​Santa Rosa weather might be fairly pleasant most of the year, but the nights can get cold in the winter. Keeping your heater operating efficiently is important to your comfort and your budget. Most homeowners want to keep their appliances working for as long as possible to avoid costly replacements. Here are four ways you might be overworking your heater, which can cause it to use too much energy and will reduce its lifespan. You can also discuss your concerns with your HVAC contractor. If your heater isn’t keeping you warm enough, it might need service or replacement. 

​You’ve heard the commercials for duct cleaning. Are they true? Should you get your air ducts cleaned every year? According to the American Lung Association, indoor air can be more polluted than what you’re breathing in outside. However, the EPA reports that duct cleaning hasn’t actually been shown to prevent health problems. Is duct cleaning worth the effort, time and money?