Author: Angie

HVAC Air Balancing

HVAC Air Balancing: How to Optimize Your Home’s Comfort & Efficiency

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on HVAC Air Balancing: How to Optimize Your Home’s Comfort & Efficiency

Furnace Noise Troubleshooting: Types of Noises and Repair Tips

A noisy furnace isn’t just an annoyance—it can disrupt your family’s comfort, pose safety risks, and even lead to higher utility bills if left unchecked. Imagine trying to unwind after a long day, only to have your furnace roar like a freight train every time it cycles on. Beyond comfort, unusual sounds can signal underlying mechanical or electrical problems that, if ignored, may lead to costly repairs or dangerous situations down the line.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get to the bottom of your furnace’s racket. You’ll learn to recognize the most common noise types, pick up practical tips for basic troubleshooting and sound-dampening, and understand exactly when it’s time to enlist a professional HVAC technician. By the end, you’ll be equipped to restore quiet—and peace of mind—to your home.

Why Is My Furnace Making Noise?

Furnace noises can range from harmless to urgent. Loose panels, debris in the blower, worn motor bearings, dirty burners, or electrical faults each produce distinct sounds. Identifying the noise and its source tells you whether a quick inspection and tightening will fix it or if you need a professional HVAC technician for repair.

Types of Furnace Noises

Every furnace makes noise as part of its normal operation, but when those sounds get louder, more frequent, or plain bizarre, they are trying to tell you something. Recognizing and categorizing these noises is the first step to diagnosing whether you’re dealing with routine thermal expansion, simple airflow whistling, or a more serious mechanical or safety issue. Below is a clear breakdown of the eight primary noise types you might encounter:

  • Clicking Noises
  • Scraping Noises
  • Rattling Noises
  • Gurgling Noises
  • Whistling Noises
  • Humming Noises
  • Popping Noises
  • Banging Noises

Each of these sounds has its own signature causes and potential fixes. By matching what you hear to the descriptions that follow, you’ll be able to decide whether a quick DIY adjustment will do the trick or if it’s time to bring in a licensed HVAC technician. Now, let’s deep-dive into each type of noise.

Clicking Noises

Clicking noises are the sharp, repetitive “click-click” sounds you hear during startup and shutdown. Typically, these clicks occur as the furnace’s gas valve opens and the igniter sparks—an expected part of normal operation. However, if the clicks become rapid, irregular, or occur continuously between cycles, it may indicate a malfunctioning ignition system or a stuck gas valve that needs professional adjustment.

Scraping Noises

Scraping noises resemble a metal-on-metal scratch or grind. This sound often points to worn or misaligned blower wheel blades dragging against the housing, or loose panels vibrating against the cabinet. Left unchecked, scraping can damage both the blower assembly and the surrounding metal, so it’s a sign you should investigate promptly.

Rattling Noises

A continuous rattling noise sounds like small parts bouncing or knocking inside the furnace. Common causes include loose screws or panels, debris caught in the blower compartment, or an unbalanced fan blade. While sometimes harmless debris is the culprit, persistent rattling can eventually lead to further wear and should be addressed.

Gurgling Noises

Gurgling noises are low, liquid-like sounds—more common in boiler systems but occasionally heard in gas furnaces with condensate drains. They usually indicate trapped water in the condensate line or drainage pan. Regularly clearing and leveling the drain line can prevent water buildup and the gurgle that follows.

Whistling Noises

Whistling noises are high-pitched “whooo” sounds caused by air forcing its way through narrow gaps or leaks in the ductwork or filter housing. A whistling furnace often points to improperly sized or blocked air pathways. Sealing duct joints, replacing clogged filters, or adjusting dampers usually calms the whistle.

Humming Noises

A steady humming noise is the low-frequency drone of the blower motor or transformer. While a gentle hum is normal when the fan runs, an excessively loud or fluctuating hum may signal an overworked motor, loose electrical connections, or failing bearings. Ignoring an overly loud hum can lead to motor burnout.

Popping Noises

Popping noises are brief, sharp “pop” sounds—similar to the crackle of a fireplace. These pops often accompany thermal expansion or contraction of metal heat exchangers as they warm up and cool down. Occasional popping is harmless, but frequent or very loud pops could hint at misaligned burners or a dirty heat exchanger that needs cleaning.

Banging Noises

Banging noises are deep, forceful “boom” sounds heard at startup or shutdown. They typically mean delayed ignition, where gas builds up before suddenly igniting, or that the heat exchanger is expanding too quickly against its housing. Because delayed ignition can stress components and pose safety risks, loud bangs warrant prompt professional inspection.

When to Call a Professional

  • Red-Flag Noises: If you smell gas, hear electrical arcing (a crackling or sizzling near wiring), or experience loud bangs at startup, shut off the unit immediately and call an HVAC expert.
  • Complex Repairs & Safety Risks: Tasks like replacing motors, diagnosing ignition system faults, or repairing gas valves involve specialized tools and training—errors here can be dangerous.
  • Warranty & Code Compliance: Many furnaces carry manufacturer or installer warranties that require professional service; local building codes often mandate licensed technicians for gas-related work.

Our furnace repair services are designed to give you complete confidence. When you call us, a certified HVAC technician arrives equipped to rapidly pinpoint the issue, provide an upfront estimate, and execute repairs using OEM-grade parts. 

This not only restores quiet operation, but also increases your system’s efficiency and lifespan, saving you money on energy bills and preventing future breakdowns. With our workmanship guarantee and strict adherence to safety standards and local codes, you’re assured both peace of mind and a warm, worry-free home.

Conclusion

By now, you know exactly why your furnace makes noise, how to match each sound to its likely cause, and which simple steps you can take to quiet minor issues yourself. When you encounter red-flag symptoms or tasks beyond basic DIY, don’t hesitate to call in a professional.

Regular filter changes, lubrication, and safety checks not only prevent annoying noises but also ensure reliable operation and lower energy costs season after season.

Ready for peace and quiet? Book your furnace tune-up with Patriot Heating today. Our certified HVAC techs will identify the source of any strange noise—and get your system running safely and silently again.

HVAC Air Balancing

HVAC Air Balancing: How to Optimize Your Home’s Comfort & Efficiency

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on HVAC Air Balancing: How to Optimize Your Home’s Comfort & Efficiency

Uneven temperatures, surprise spikes in your utility bill, and rooms that feel stuffy are all signs your HVAC system isn’t pulling its weight. HVAC air balancing is the secret to solving these common headaches. By redistributing airflow throughout your home or business, air balancing targets hot and cold spots, reduces drafts, and even improves indoor air quality. 

Whether you’ve noticed that the master bedroom always stays cool while the living room bakes, or you’re tired of your system cycling on and off. This guide will show you how balanced airflow restores comfort—and why professional HVAC air balancing is worth the investment.

What Is Air Balancing?

HVAC air balancing is the process of measuring and adjusting airflow so every room in your property receives the right amount of conditioned air. Technicians use dampers, airflow measurement tools, and a Testing, Adjusting & Balancing (TAB) procedure to fine‐tune your system.

  • Dampers are valves inside your ductwork that open or close to regulate airflow.
  • Airflow Measurement employs devices like manometers and flow hoods to record how much air moves through each vent.
  • TAB Process combines precise measurements with strategic adjustments to create an even temperature profile across all zones.

Understanding air distribution is crucial for system health: balanced airflow prevents certain components from working overtime, reduces wear and tear, and cuts down on energy waste.

A well-balanced HVAC system not only keeps your space comfortable but also extends equipment life—protecting your investment and lowering repair costs over time.

Signs You Need Air Balancing

If you’re seeing any of the issues below, it’s time to consider professional HVAC air balancing:

  • High Energy Bills:  When your monthly utility costs keep climbing despite regular thermostat settings, uneven airflow is likely forcing your system to run longer and harder to hit your target temperature.

  • Hot or Cold Spots: Notice that one room feels like a sauna while another is freezer-cold? Imbalanced airflow often leads to these uncomfortable zones, making parts of your home unusable without extra space heaters or fans.

  • Uneven Temperatures: Fluctuating temperatures—like a living room that’s cool in the morning but sweltering by afternoon—signal that your HVAC isn’t distributing air consistently throughout your ductwork.

  • Poor Indoor Air Quality: Stagnant air in under-served rooms traps dust, pet dander, and allergens, leading to stuffy, stale conditions and higher allergy symptoms.

  • Dirty Vents: If you see excessive dust buildup around grilles, it means your airflow is too low to carry particles away—another sign of imbalance.

  • Weak Airflow from Vents: Vents that barely blow air or whistle when open suggest restricted or uneven duct pressure that only a full HVAC air balancing can correct.

Why Air Balancing Matters

Proper HVAC air balancing isn’t just a technical service—it’s a key to unlocking comfort, savings, and system health:

  • Comfort Improvement: Balanced airflow eliminates hot and cold spots. Every room enjoys consistent temperatures. No more fighting over who controls the thermostat.

  • Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings: When air is distributed evenly, your system runs less often and for shorter cycles. You’ll notice lower energy bills and fewer surprise spikes on your utility statement.

  • Indoor Air Quality Enhancement: Uniform airflow reduces stagnant pockets where dust and allergens accumulate. Cleaner air means fewer respiratory irritations and a healthier home environment.

  • System Longevity & Reduced Repairs: Overworking specific components leads to early failures. Air balancing spreads the load evenly. This lowers wear and tear, extending your HVAC’s lifespan and cutting down on costly breakdowns.

By investing in professional HVAC air balancing, you not only enjoy immediate comfort gains but also protect your equipment and wallet in the long run. 

How the Air Balancing Process Works

HVAC air balancing begins with a thorough system evaluation, using precise tools to measure airflow at various vents. Technicians identify imbalances by comparing actual airflow against manufacturer specifications, then make targeted adjustments to restore uniform distribution.

Tools & Measurements:

  1. Manometers: Digital or analog pressure meters that record static and total pressure differences across duct sections.
  2. Flow Hoods: Hood-shaped devices placed over vents to capture and quantify airflow volume in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
  3. Draft Gauges: Instruments that detect pressure variations around grilles and ductwork to pinpoint leaks or restrictions.

Professional TAB Procedure:

  1. Initial Inspection: Check filters, coils, and duct seals for debris and damage.
  2. Baseline Measurements: Record CFM at each supply and return vent using flow hoods.
  3. Damper Adjustments: Close or open internal dampers based on measurement data to redirect airflow.
  4. Pressure Testing: Use manometers to verify static pressures are within recommended ranges.
  5. Fine-Tuning: Perform incremental tweaks, re-measuring after each change to achieve balanced CFM readings.
  6. Report Generation: Compile a detailed TAB report outlining pre- and post-adjustment data, ensuring transparency and service guarantee.

DIY Air Balancing Tips

  • Air Balancing Fixtures: 

Inspect vent registers and diffusers to ensure they’re free from obstructions. Remove any loose floor rugs or furniture blocks near registers. Clean built-in grilles by wiping off dust and debris, ensuring that air flows unhindered. Verify that directional fins are oriented correctly to guide airflow toward the center of the room.

  • Damper Adjustments:

Locate manual dampers inside main supply trunks or near the air handler. Mark the damper position before adjusting. Gradually close dampers feeding oversized rooms and open those for under-served areas. Make small incremental turns—about 10% adjustments—and then retest airflow by holding your hand near vents to feel for improved distribution.

  • Vent Adjustments: 

For each room, fully open all supply and return vents. If airflow is too strong or weak, adjust the vent louver blades by hand: tilt to increase flow or close slightly to decrease. For slotted registers, use the adjustment lever to fine-tune direction and volume until airflow feels consistent across every vent in the home.

  • How to Clean Air Filters?

Turn off the HVAC system. Remove the filter and inspect for accumulated dust. If reusable, vacuum both sides and wash with mild soap and water; let it dry completely before reinstallation. For disposable filters, replace with the correct MERV-rated size monthly. A clean filter ensures consistent airflow and prevents strain on the blower motor.

  • How to Avoid Restricting Airflow?

Keep a clear perimeter—at least two feet—around all vents and returns. Avoid closing unused vents completely; instead, adjust dampers to redirect air. Replace too-narrow return grills with larger models if necessary. Regularly vacuum around return grills to prevent lint buildup that limits suction and reduces overall system efficiency.

  • Fix Drafts: 

Identify drafty gaps around windows, doors, and duct registers. Apply weatherstripping or door sweeps to entrances. Use simple sealant foam or metal tape to seal visible duct seams. Tightening loose vent mounts prevents unconditioned air infiltration. These quick fixes help maintain consistent pressure and prevent outside air from skewing your balance.

  • Repair Ductwork: 

Inspect accessible ducts for cracks, holes, or disconnected sections. Use UV-resistant metal foil tape for small punctures and professional-grade mastic sealant for larger gaps. Secure loose connections with sheet-metal screws and brackets. Properly sealed ductwork stabilizes pressure balance and directs conditioned air exactly where it’s needed.

  • Repair Gaps in the Ducts: 

Pinpoint air leaks by feeling for escaping air along duct runs while the HVAC system is on. Mark leak spots and apply mesh-backed duct tape for minor gaps. For broader separations, insert sheet-metal patches coated with mastic. Ensuring airtight connections maintains designed airflow paths and improves system performance.

  • How to Improve Insulation ? 

Check attic and crawlspace insulation near duct runs. Add fiberglass or spray-foam insulation around bare ducts to prevent thermal loss or gain. Wrap accessible trunk lines in insulated duct sleeves. Better insulation stabilizes air temperature inside ducts, reducing the need for overcooling or overheating to compensate for heat transfer through uninsulated sections.

  • Homemade Airflow Measurements & Limitations

    • Anemometer: Handheld anemometers measure airspeed at vent openings. Multiply speed by vent area to estimate CFM. While neat for spot-checks, readings can vary due to location and device calibration. DIY users may see ±10–15% error—enough for rough balancing, but not professional accuracy.
    • Pitot Tubes: A pitot tube attached to a gauge measures static and total pressure within ductwork. In skilled hands, it can yield precise velocity pressure. However, tube placement and angle significantly impact data quality. Without professional training, misalignment can lead to incorrect balance calculations and inconsistent results.

When to Hire a Professional

While DIY adjustments can help with minor comfort issues, full HVAC air balancing requires certified technicians and professional-grade tools. On platforms like Quora, users consistently highlight the importance of Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) reports for diagnosing complex airflow problems and validating improvements. These reports aren’t just numbers—they’re blueprints for long-term comfort and efficiency.

Hiring a HVAC repair expert means you get precise diagnostics using flow hoods, manometers, and draft gauges—tools that aren’t practical for most homeowners to use accurately.

At Patriot Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we combine expert-level testing with flat-rate pricing and a 100% service guarantee. You’ll never face unexpected charges or incomplete results. If you want long-lasting performance and indoor comfort without surprises, it’s time to call in the pros.

Conclusion

If you’re tired of sweating in one room and freezing in another—or watching your energy bills rise for no clear reason—HVAC air balancing could be the fix you need. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to improve indoor comfort, lower energy use, and extend your system’s lifespan.

Ready to restore balance to your home or business? Patriot Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has your back with upfront pricing, expert service, and guaranteed results.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your HVAC air balancing assessment and take the first step toward total comfort.

Is your house ready for the long season ahead?

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on Is your house ready for the long season ahead?

Baseball season for the Mariners officially starts March 30, but spring training is where it all begins. That’s where the players get into true game shape, putting in the work to prepare for the long season that extends through summer and into fall—late fall, we hope!

Now, you’re probably not a professional baseball player, and your home probably isn’t a giant ballpark with loud pink lighting (if you haven’t seen the T-Mobile Park lights, they’re seriously pink, and seriously loud). But if you want your home to perform well throughout the year, well, it probably needs a bit of spring training, too.

Consider the experts at Patriot your coaches and trainers: We’re the people who can help put you in a position to succeed—and the people who fix issues when they pop up here and there.

So what should you be doing to get your home ready to be at its best when it matters most? Read on for a few tips.

Think about your filters—and maybe an air-filtration system.

We talk about filters all the time, because changing them regularly is one of the best things you can do in terms of preventive maintenance. A dirty, clogged air-intake filter will make your HVAC system work harder, can reduce its effectiveness, and might even lead to equipment trouble. Nobody wants that, especially when summer rolls around. Put a reminder in your calendar to look at your filter every month or two—and change it when it’s dirty (or every 90 days at the most).

Filters are even more important when fire season hits, because a lot of things are floating around in the air at that time of year. Of course, you don’t just want to prevent those things from getting to your furnace—you don’t want to breathe them yourself. That’s where an air-filtration system for your home can help. Our professionals can talk to you about your options, but don’t wait until summer, because that’s when everyone else starts thinking about their air!

Do a little spring cleaning—or a lot.

Your filters aren’t the only things that get dirty—dust can accumulate on and in your registers and vents, and leaves and other debris can get into your outside equipment. So grab the duster, or the vacuum, or the blower, and clear that stuff out! (It’s not a bad idea to dust the rest of the house at that point, because all of that stuff gets into your air, too.) You just might find that the air inside is a little less musty, especially when your AC or heat is running, and your equipment might perform a little better as well.

Head into the trainer’s room—or let the trainers come to you!

To stay in prime shape, professional athletes have trainers who do everything from providing workout plans and stretching programs to treating injuries. The pros at Patriot do the same thing—our maintenance services can help keep your equipment in peak form, and should something break down, we’ll diagnose the issue and offer treatment options.

Don’t wait until summer to get your house in playing shape! To make sure your system is ready for the season ahead, schedule a check-up with Patriot at 509-662-6262.

A super offer in honor of the big game

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on A super offer in honor of the big game

Most people think February is the month for romance—and judging by the selection of cards and chocolates at the grocery store, well, it’s hard to argue with that notion.

That doesn’t mean we think it should be, though. First, it’s a lot better to surprise your spouse or partner with romantic flowers or candy when they aren’t expecting it (trust us on this). And second, who has time for romance when the big game is just around the corner?

Yes, we love football at Patriot—so while we usually talk about giving your home a hug, this month we’re helping our customers TACKLE projects around the house.

Whoever wins, you win
We’re so pumped up for the game that if Chiefs wins, we’re giving everyone $20 off any Patriot service! And don’t worry, we’ll come up with a special offer if Eagles wins, too. (This just in: That special offer will be … $20 off any Patriot service.)

That means no matter who wins the game, you’re a winner either way. But more important, it means everyone in your house is a winner, because you’ll have a little more incentive to fix some of those things that have been annoying for a while. Faucets that drip? An old toilet that runs and runs every time until you jiggle the handle? A water heater that leaves people shivering in the shower?

Patriot’s plumbing pros can help with all that and more. And for HVAC and other projects, there are some great rebates through March that might save you way more than $20. (Check this out for information on how you could get thousands of dollars back on heat pumps, ductless systems, water heaters, and more.)

It all starts with a call to 509-662-6262. Here’s to a great game!

This year, make a rebate resolution

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on This year, make a rebate resolution

It’s that time of year again: The time where we promise ourselves we’re going to eat healthy, get to the gym every day, kick those bad habits, and transform our lives.

It’s wonderful, because it means we’re focused on positivity and potential, at least for a little while—even if we know deep down that next month, the gym visits might fall off and more desserts will probably sneak onto our plates.

Wouldn’t it be nice to actually keep a resolution this year? If one of your goals is to budget better and save more (or if you want to make that a new goal, like right now), Patriot has you covered—with rebates on HVAC equipment and water heaters that can put thousands of dollars back in your pocket.

Big rebates extended through March 2023
If you’ve been thinking about finally getting that new heat pump or water heater, now is the time to do it—because through March, Chelan PUD is offering rebates of up to $4,000 for HVAC system upgrades and as much as $900 if you replace your electric water heater with a heat pump version. (Not sure what a heat pump water heater is? Learn more here.)

Manufacturer incentives and potential tax credits could be in play, too; just ask our experts, who can help you with everything, including choosing the best option for your budget and even handling the paperwork. That’s right, we’ll submit the rebate forms after your equipment is installed and your invoice is paid, and have the check sent right to you.

It’s the easiest New Year’s resolution of all time. And even better, when you let us recycle your old HVAC components or water heater after installation, we’ll give you a $250 credit! (You weren’t planning on doing anything with that worn-out heat pump, were you?)

Stay ahead of inflation
Another reason to get this done now is inflation. While it seems to have calmed down a bit, everyone is still feeling the impact of higher costs just about everywhere. Nobody knows what’s going to happen in the coming months, so locking in a price on a new HVAC system or water heater today can protect you from surprise increases tomorrow.

The first step, though, is determining whether a new system is right for you—and Patriot professionals can help with that, too. We won’t sell you something you don’t need, rebate or not. So give us a call at 509-662-6262 to start the process and talk about your options. Saving money is a great way to start the new year, and it’s a lot easier than going to the gym!

Easy projects to make your home happier for the holidays

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on Easy projects to make your home happier for the holidays

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are already almost here. That means it’s time to get the lights and other decorations up outside—but don’t forget about inside! Whether you’re hosting guests for dinners, parties, and other gatherings, or you simply want to make the holiday season easier on yourself, Patriot can help with a number of small projects that can make a big difference during the season and beyond. Read on for some great ideas!

Eliminate the wait for hot water
Skip the microwave or the stovetop kettle—when you want cocoa with the kids, or a spot of tea, an “Insta-Hot” makes it fast and easy. These small water heaters can fit under your sink or somewhere else in the kitchen, giving you hot water without the wait. They’re super convenient, easy for our pros to install, and great for coffee, soup mixes, and other cooking uses, too!

While we’re talking about water…
When was the last time you updated your kitchen faucet? You’d be surprised at the difference a new one can make—especially when it comes to the functionality. Touch-free options allow you to turn water on and off with the wave of a hand or even with your voice, pull-out sprayers give you more reach (without taking up any extra space like a classic side sprayer), and some faucets have built-in water filtration and other features. Just as important, the faucet is a simple way to give your kitchen a bit of a fresh new look!

When it’s time to go
We don’t mean “leave” here—we really mean go, as in the bathroom. And if you’ve got an old guest bathroom, it might be time for a new toilet. Similar to faucets, today’s toilets offer a lot of choices and features, from dual-flush technology for partial vs. full flushes, touchless flushing, higher seats (which can make it easier for aging loved ones to sit), bidet attachments, and more. Our plumbing pros are happy to talk about your options and help you choose what’s best for you and your guests.

Power up
All those guests are going to want to charge their devices, and you probably have a tree or other indoor decorations to light, so don’t forget about your outlets! It might be a good idea to have a few new ones installed in convenient spots—you can have USB ports included if you like. It’s a good idea to think about outside outlets, too: Having them under the eaves can make it a breeze to plug in holiday lights and gutter cables (which we recommend to help prevent ice dams during winter).

Patriot is ready to help!
Whatever you need to make your house a little more welcoming for your guests—and life a little more convenient for you—Patriot professionals can help get it done. Just call us at 509-662-6262. Here’s to a happy and healthy season, wherever and however you celebrate!

Give your home—and a foster kid—a hug

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on Give your home—and a foster kid—a hug

At Patriot, we are incredibly fortunate to work with wonderful customers and dedicated employees—and we try to share that good fortune with others, especially when the holidays roll around.

That’s why when you use Patriot to give your home a hug this November, we’re going to help you give your community a hug, too: For every plumbing and HVAC inspection we perform during the month, we’re donating $50 to the Chelan-Douglas County CASA Program, which fights for the rights and needs of children in foster care.

Why get a plumbing/HVAC inspection?
You might not think of your home’s HVAC, plumbing, and other systems as ways to save money, but maybe you should—as long as you don’t try to “save” the wrong way, that is.

Investing just a little bit of time and money on maintenance can help catch small problems before they become big (and expensive) ones, which can save you money in the long run. We’ve seen people skimp on furnace maintenance, for example, only to need an emergency replacement when the heat stops working in the middle of winter. Often, these people could have prolonged the life of their systems—by years, in some cases—if they had just been more proactive.

An inspection from the experts at Patriot is a great first step.

For plumbing, we’ll check your toilets and water heater for corrosion and leaks. We’ll look at the hookups for your washer, the lines to your faucet, even go into the crawlspace to look for moisture coming in. Then we’ll give you a checklist to show you what needs work and what’s fine. (And we can help with any necessary work, too.)

We’re just as thorough when it comes to your HVAC system—we’ll look at the key components of your furnace, heat pump and/or AC unit, inside and out, and provide recommendations. (Hint: We’ll probably tell you to change your filters more regularly.)

It doesn’t cost much, but the savings can be significant!

Why Chelan/Douglas CASA?
The Chelan-Douglas County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Program is designed to match foster children with a qualified, compassionate adult who will ensure they aren’t overlooked or ignored by the system. It’s an amazing organization staffed by selfless volunteers. Our donations will be directed to two different funds:
– The Stocking Fund, which provides foster kids with gifts for the holidays.
– The Wardell Baker Scholarship Fund, which supports higher education for these kids.

Schedule your inspection today!
Remember, for every plumbing or HVAC inspection in November, Patriot is giving $50 to support Chelan-Douglas County CASA! Just give us a call at 509-662-6262 to give your home—and a foster kid—a hug!

Get a more efficient water heater—and a check for $900!

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on Get a more efficient water heater—and a check for $900!

With fall already here and the holidays just around the corner, there’s one thing on everyone’s mind: water heaters.

OK, maybe not. But a new water heater should be on your mind if yours is getting old and it’s not working as well as it used to—especially if you’re planning to host out-of-town guests in November and December. (Look, even if you don’t get along with the in-laws all that well, forcing them to take cold showers is a bit much.)

You could even land some bonus holiday spending money—because when you replace your old electric model with a new heat pump water heater, Chelan PUD is offering a $900 rebate through March 2023!

What is a heat pump water heater?
These water heaters work differently (and more efficiently) than electric units. Utilizing fans and an evaporator, they take warmth from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water in the tank. And because they use less energy, operating them typically costs a lot less: You could save up to 60% on the cost to heat your water every month.

They are slightly bigger than standard water heaters, and it’s best to have them in an unheated space like a garage or basement, as they will release some cool air when heating your water. It’s also important to note that heat pump water heaters make a little noise when they operate (like a freezer, though, not like a leaf blower or something).

Is it time for a new water heater?
Other than the obvious—not having any hot water—how do you know when you need a new water heater, or when you might need one sooner rather than later? Our experts are happy to help, but you can do a quick evaluation yourself, too. Here are a few questions to ask:

  • Is there rusting on the tank? Is there rust or discoloration in the water coming out of your taps?
  • Is there any evidence of leaks on the floor around the water heater?
  • Does the water heater make any odd noises?
  • If you run hot water in multiple locations at the same time, do one or more spots turn cold quickly?

We’re water heater experts—and rebate pros!
If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, it’s a good idea to have a Patriot professional come take a look. We’ll give you an honest assessment and outline whether a new heat pump water heater might be right for you.

When you purchase your water heater from Patriot, our work doesn’t end with installation. We’ll handle the entire rebate process for you, filling out the paperwork so all you need to do is enjoy that hot shower—and wait for your check!

And don’t forget, there are some amazing rebates for HVAC systems that could save you thousands, too—but the time to act is now, because they aren’t guaranteed to stick around next year.

To learn more and talk about how you could save, just give us a call today at 509-662-6262!

‘Feel the Love’ with a free heating or cooling system!

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on ‘Feel the Love’ with a free heating or cooling system!

Do you know someone who supports our community and puts others first, even when it means
sacrificing their own needs?

If so—and if they could use a new or upgraded heating or cooling system—they’re a great candidate for the Lennox “Feel the Love” program. Each year, Lennox partners with its dealers to provide a new system and installation at no charge for the winners, who are selected from nationwide nominations. Since 2009, more than 1,500 free systems have been installed.

Unsung heroes from all walks of life
Nominees who have been honored in previous years include community figures such as teachers, firefighters, and volunteers—as well as veterans, seniors living in older homes, and families facing hard times. If you know someone dedicated to the community who deserves recognition, your nomination could make a big difference for them!

Nominate and save $25 with Patriot!
When you make a nomination using the link below, we’ll give you a $25 credit toward any Patriot service. Just make sure you put our name in the “How Did You Hear About Us?” section
of the nomination form. Feel the Love guidelines Nominations must be received by Aug. 31, 2022. And please note that the nominee must be an individual or family—because the program provides residential systems for honorees, organizations and nonprofits are ineligible. (But we highly encourage nonprofits and community organizations to nominate someone in the community!)

LEARN MORE AND NOMINATE

How can we help you feel the love?
Thinking about a new heating or cooling system for yourself? Have another project in mind to
get ready for fall and winter? Give us a call anytime at 509-662-6262. We’re here to help—and
help you save, too!

Want to win a new water heater?

Posted on | by Angie | Leave a Comment on Want to win a new water heater?

Now that the World’s Best voting for 2022 is closed, we’re shifting gears in a big way: We want you to help us identify the world’s worst.

The world’s worst water heater, that is.

We’ve got a pretty good idea what it’s going to look like. It’ll probably have a fair amount of rust. There might be some other damage or corrosion. It likely doesn’t work all that well, either (if it works at all).

We just don’t know where it is. And that’s where you come in.
If you think your water heater might be the world’s worst, snap a picture and send it to us at contest@callpatriot.net. Our technicians—who know water heaters inside and out—will be our judges.

The winner will get a free water heater installed by Patriot!
We’ll announce the world’s worst water heater on our Facebook page on 8/1/2022, so be sure to follow us at https://www.facebook.com/callpatriot/.

Please note that to be eligible for this contest, the water heater in question must be currently installed in a home within Patriot’s service area. (Sorry, you can’t just send us a photo of some old rusted-out unit you found online.) The deadline for entries is 7/31/2022. Good luck!

Is it time for a new water heater? Even if your water heater isn’t the world’s worst, you might want to consider a new one if it’s getting old or it isn’t working as well as it once did. Our professionals can help you determine if it’s best to repair or replace, and ensure you’ve always got hot water when you need it! Give us a call today at 509-662-6262.