Author: Brody Pennell

Why a Heater Tuneup is Essential in LA

Written by Brody Pennell on October 24, 2019. Posted in Heating, HVAC Maintenance.

As a homeowner in LA, you know that getting a tuneup for your heater is important. But… do you actually schedule heater maintenance?

Why A heater tuneup is Important, even in LA

A lot of homeowners ignore – or conveniently forget – to get maintenance scheduled. A lot of people say, “my furnace is running fine, why do I need a tuneup?”. This goes on for several years until suddenly, they are calling us for an emergency heater repair in the middle of the night.

To be clear, we’re happy to take your calls 24/7. But these last-minute repairs are not only inconvenient, the repair costs can add up!

There are several reasons why you should make sure to get a heater tuneup in LA:

1. For the Safety of Your Family

It’s important to remember that a furnace is a machine. It produces heat by burning natural gas. Over time there will be normal wear and tear on the metal parts inside the machine. Gone unchecked, a furnace poses real dangers, like gas leaks and carbon monoxide leaks.

Natural gas is flammable – that’s why it’s used in furnaces! But in a furnace, it’s kept enclosed inside the metal tubing and chambers. If it escapes into your home, any spark could cause a fire.

Since furnaces burn fuel, they produce carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is poisonous to humans and animals, causing nausea, headaches, and asphyxiation.

Getting maintenance for your Los Angeles heater will help identify any potential safety risks. Plus, you’ll get peace of mind that your furnace is working properly.

2. To Ensure Warmth

There’s a group of people out there that wait to turn on the furnace until they just can’t stand the cold any longer. Finally, on a cold morning, they bundle up, shuffle over to their thermostat, and switch the heat to ‘on’. And they experience that brief moment of dread, thinking, ‘Is it going to turn on? I’m cold!!’

When you finally DO decide to turn on your heat, have confidence that you’ll get the warmth you desire! All LA residents should schedule a heater tuneup before the heating season begins. That way, you can be certain you’ll be cozy on that first cold day.

Plus, if your furnace requires repair, wouldn’t you rather have the work done when you’re not freezing?

Similarly, a furnace inspection can reveal how close you are to needing to replace it. If the time has come to install a new heater, it’s best to do it ahead of the cold. That way, you get full benefit from your new system all winter long.

All of this is to say, make sure you take care of your furnace maintenance before the cold truly arrives.

3. Protect the Environment and Pay Less

In California, nearly 27% of our energy consumption is attributed to space heating. One way we can reduce our impact on the planet is by improving the efficiency of high-consuming devices we use, like furnaces.

A furnace that has received a tuneup will use less energy and be more efficient. That’s because your furnace will receive a bit of a deep clean. We’ll check the system for any leaks or blockages that would contribute to higher energy use.

Combine your furnace inspection with a programmable thermostat and you’ll start to see big savings. Don’t have one? Check out our current promotion! Until November 15, 2019, qualifying LA customers can get a free Nest thermostat and free AC tuneup when you schedule a heater tuneup!

When you use less energy, you’re doing right by the environment. Bonus: your energy bills will get smaller, too.

LA Homeowners: Schedule Your Heater Tuneup!

We’ve shared just a few reasons why it’s important to get a heater tuneup in LA. There are many more reasons to schedule heater maintenance, like the longevity of your furnace and maintaining your warranty.

The fact of the matter is that every home in Los Angeles should have annual furnace maintenance. We make it easy to get your furnace inspected. Fill out this form to schedule your appointment!

One last thing. If remembering to schedule your maintenance is part of the hurdle, consider joining the Brody Pennell Maintenance Club. In addition to helping you get your inspections scheduled, you’ll receive discounts on parts and repairs. It’s a great deal; that’s why hundreds of your LA neighbors are already signed up!

Heat Pump: What is it?

Written by Brody Pennell on September 19, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, HVAC Installation.

If you’re looking at buying a new HVAC system, you may have come across a product called a heat pump. So, what is a heat pump? A heat pump is a system that can provide both cooling and heating. An air conditioner can only provide cooling, and a furnace can only heat. However, a heat pump can do both!

Should I use a heat pump?

A heat pump is a piece of equipment that replaces both the heating and cooling system in your home. So, there are several scenarios in which you might consider a heat pump:

Replacing an air conditioner – if your air conditioner has bit the bullet, you might consider replacing it with a heat pump rather than another air conditioner. This is especially true if your furnace is getting old, or, you don’t have any heat in your home at all.
Replace or add heating – For homeowners that want to replace an existing heating system or add heating where it doesn’t already exist, a heat pump is a cost-effective option to get serious bang for your buck.
Remodel or new construction – a heat pump is the best available option for a remodel or new construction home. With fewer pieces of equipment, it’s a space-saver.

How does a heat pump work?

Despite the name, air-source heat pump systems work very similarly to air conditioners.

When a home needs cooling, a heat pump operates the same way an air conditioner does. However, an air conditioner only runs refrigerant in one direction. Think about it like a one-way street- traffic always moves in the same direction.

When there’s a requirement for heating in a home with traditional A/C, the air conditioner will shut down and a furnace would take over. But with a heat pump, a special component called a reversing valve changes the direction of refrigerant flow. This would be like all the traffic on the same one-way street getting swapped to move in the opposite direction. So, many of the same components are used to warm the refrigerant inside the system as are used to cool the refrigerant.

To be clear, refrigerant flow through the heat pump system can only go in one direction at any given time. So, most heat pumps can only offer cooling or heating independently, not cooling and heating at the same time.

What are the benefits of a heat pump?

Heat pumps offer several benefits to homeowners. Some of them include:

Reduced maintenance – since there are fewer pieces of equipment in your HVAC system, there will be less maintenance. That means fewer systems in your home to worry about maintaining.
Higher efficiency – Heat pumps are among the most efficient products in the market today. If you’re interested in saving energy or reducing monthly utility bills, heat pumps make a great choice.
Cost-effective – In the long run it’s cheaper to purchase one heat pump rather than an air conditioner and furnace separately. Ultimately all mechanical equipment will need to be replaced, so a heat pump is a smart financial choice.
Heating – Not all homes in LA have heating due to our moderate climate. Upgrading from an air conditioner to heat pump is a great way to improve the comfort of your home for a fraction of the price of an independent heating system.
Electricity-based – Electricty powers heat pumps, making them an attractive option for homeowners with low electricity rates. An electrically-powered heat pump also makes sense for homeowners that are producing solar power on-site.

Call Brody Pennell for a Quote

Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning offers heat pump installation, repair, and maintenance services for homeowners in the Los Angeles area and beyond. Our team of heat pump experts can recommend the best heat pump system for your home. Also, we can help you save by taking advantage of promotions on heat pumps. Call us today: (310) 896-4911.

HVAC and Sick Days. Is there a link?

Written by Brody Pennell on August 28, 2019. Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

With Fall nearly upon us, it’s about time for scarves, soups, and… sick days. Everyone has experienced a bug going around the office. Did you know that an uptick in sick days could be related to your HVAC system?

It’s true. When there is a properly-maintained indoor air quality system installed, the number of allergens and bacteria in the air you breathe are being significantly reduced.

If you own or operate a commercial building, then you know how important it is that the people in your building stay healthy. If workers are sick, then productivty drops. So, it’s critical to provide a healthy and safe work environment.

Most Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors. Many of those hours are spent at the workplace. So when the indoor environment is clean, you can save on health insurance costs and reduce absenteeism.

Some common indoor air quality problems that are common in offices include:

Not enough ventilation
Uncomfortable temperatures
Humidity that’s too high or too low
Not controlling emissions (like smelly microwaved lunches or toner from the copy machine)
Improper cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces

The best way to reduce sick days for the people in your building is to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ). One way to do that is to control humidity. Another way is to install an IAQ device within your heating and cooling system.

IAQ Devices IN HVAC SYSTEMS REDUCE SICK DAYS

Even though commercial buildings require specific amounts of outdoor air, that doesn’t mean the air is fresh. Pollen, ragweed, and other particulates from the outside can make it into the building through doors and windows. Also, a majority of the air in commercial buildings is recirculated. So any bacteria, viruses, or other particles stay in the building’s air for extended periods.

Every heating and cooling system should have a standard air filter. But, some particulates are too small for the filter to catch. Even if bacteria or pollen makes its way to the filter media, those cold-causing particles can still make it through the filter. Then, they’ll get sent in the ductwork right back into the building.

Two solutions that can put an end to the germs circulating in your building.

Electronic air cleaners are basically an air purifier for your entire space. It’s installed inside your ductwork, so it cleans 100% of the air in your building.
Ultraviolet sterilizers eliminate bacteria upon contact. The coil-based model kills up to 99.9% of surface mold on your central AC components.

Air Quality Solutions from Brody Pennell

As the winter nears and allergies become an issue in your building, be sure to call Brody Pennell for your air quality needs. We have the experience and technology the best solutions for your business. For 70 years Brody Pennell has served Los Angeles businesses. Our technicians are the best in the business. Let us assist you with your IAQ needs today!

How to Stay Cool in LA this Summer

Written by Brody Pennell on July 29, 2019. Posted in Local Events.

Through most of the year, we get beautiful weather in southern California. But occasionally during the summer in LA, we’ll get a hot and sticky day that has you searching for excuses to stay indoors. So, we put together this guide of indoor activities to help you stay cool in LA this summer.

1 – Vanderpump Dogs

If you’re not able to own a dog of your own, you can get your fill of puppy kisses at Vanderpump Dogs. Owned by Real Housewife Lisa Vanderpump, this indoor activity is actually a 501(c)3 rescue organization. The 6,000 square foot facility is designed with a home-like environment to give both the pets and the visitors a more inviting feel to the space. Take a break from the heat and cozy up with some adoptable dogs for a relaxing afternoon indoors.

2 – Dreamscape

Truly escape from the a hot summer day in LA with an adventure from Dreamscape. This immersive experience located at the Westfield Century City mall takes visitors to far away places and fantastical scenes. Your mind will be fooled by the mix of virtual reality and interactive physical features, like a platform that vibrates and shakes along with your experience. Choose from a daring adventure through an ancient tomb, or plunge into the ocean to reunite a family of whales. Or – take a trip to an alien zoo! The choice is yours.

3 – Las Fotos Project

Check out the incredible photography work by teenage girls at the Las Fotos youth photo exhibit. Celebrating their 10th year of programming, the Las Fotos project inspires young women with access to professional cameras, quality instruction, and workshops throughout the year. Then, photographers are featured in regular exhibits in Lincoln Heights. The gallery is free and open on Wednesdays and Fridays.

4 – Dynasty Typewriter

Book a babysitter and head down to Dynasty Typewriter for some belly laughs (although there is no minimum age requirement, they have a policy of not censoring their comics). With unique shows like the Pixar Roast on August 6th, you forget about the dog days of LA summers for a few hours. The nearly-200 person theater offers a cozy and intimate show for all who visit. Although there is no alcohol at the theater, that also means no drink minimums. Popcorn and snacks are available for purchase, or if you’re really hungry, the next door La Fonda is a cult favorite.

5 – Griffith Observatory

Another affordable activity for LA residents looking to beat the summer heat is the Griffith Observatory. The observatory is free and is open Tuesday through Sunday through the summer. Visitors can explore exhibits and look through telescopes. Plus, the Griffith Observatory is one of the best views of the Hollywood sign and the Los Angeles skyline. Check the weather for clear skies before you head out for the best views of the stars.

Can I cover my HVAC unit?

Written by Brody Pennell on July 3, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, Home Improvement.

Our customers in Los Angeles, California sometimes ask this question: Can I cover up an HVAC outdoor unit?

Reasons you might want to cover your HVAC Unit

If this is something you’ve never even considered, then the question may puzzle you. Perhaps you’ve never set foot to look at your outdoor system. However, there are many reasons that someone might want to cover their HVAC unit.

Property values depend heavily on a buyer’s first impression of the home. Savvy homeowners take great care to improve curb appeal, which can help drive up the cost of a home that is for sale.
Aesthetics are essential to our customers in LA. Your home should look and feel like the sanctuary it is. If the AC unit is in a prominent place on the property, like next to a pool, it can feel like an eyesore.
Proper care and maintenance of an air conditioning system is vital to their longevity. If there are trees or other landscaping that often cause debris to fall on or even inside an HVAC unit, you may be tempted to cover it up.

Ideally, it is best to keep your air conditioner unobstructed. But, we understand there are valid concerns and desires to wanting to conceal your condenser.

So, CAN I HIDE MY AIR CONDITIONER?

If you are seeking to hide your unit from view, then the answer is yes! You can hide your HVAC unit. However, that doesn’t mean you can build a box around your system. Air conditioning units require something called free airflow.

Talk Science to Me

The air around your HVAC system is the means for refrigerant to get cold. AC systems draw air across the condensing coils, using the temperature of the air to cool the fluid in the coil, and then shoots the hot exhaust air away.

If you block the airflow to the unit, the fan must work much harder to draw the appropriate amount of air across the coils. That could lead to higher energy bills and an increased likelihood that your unit will require repair sooner.

Separately, if you encase the unit, it could cause the air to shortcircuit. The warm exhaust air needs to be sent far away from the system so that it draws only cooler air across the coils. If warm air cannot escape to the environment, your system could have problems performing well, and after a small amount of time operating like this, the system is not able to cool at all.

In short, studies have shown that when shrubs, walls, or other objects are placed too close to a condensing unit it reduces system efficiency. If you can, leaving your AC condenser completely unobstructed is best.

Thinking of covering your HVAC unit for maintenance reasons?

If you want to cover your HVAC unit to keep the elements at bay, we have specific advice for you. You don’t need to do this! Air conditioning systems are built to endure harsh weather conditions, moisture, and even some debris.

Covering your AC unit with a tarp or other cover can cause other problems! For example, rodents seek shelter in covered areas like this during the colder months. Also, you might forget to remove the cover when you first turn on your AC, and that can cause big operational problems.

As long as you have your air conditioner serviced once a year, your system receives regularly cleaning. During our preventative maintenance visits, we rinse your unit and clean out any debris. So, make sure you take care of these visits before it starts to get hot here in southern California!

Guidelines: If you want to cover your HVAC unit

Ready to disguise your air conditioning system? Follow these essential guidelines:

Service Area – remember that your system needs servicing by a certified technician at least once a year. Make sure that any barrier you create is simple to enter. Also, there should be at least 2-3 feet of clear area around the system.
Choose appropriate landscaping – bushes are a popular option to hide A/C units. Be sure that you choose landscaping that doesn’t create a lot of debris, such as falling leaves, nuts, or fruit. Also, keep in mind that landscaping needs regular trimming to ensure it doesn’t encroach on your AC unit.
Free Airflow – Be sure that the air conditioner has open space to encourage free airflow. If you choose fencing or other structural materials to cover your HVAC unit, be sure that there is plenty of slats or other open areas in the material. The ratio of open area to the material should be at least 50%, ideally higher. Walls or barriers should be placed no closer than 3 feet to the sides of the system.

Have a question about your AC?

Air conditioners are somewhat of a mystery to most homeowners. That’s where Brody Pennell, the experts is HVAC, come in. We’d be happy to answer any inquiries about your heating and cooling system. As the longest-standing Carrier dealer in Los Angeles, we have decades of experience in the industry. Give us a call anytime an HVAC concern comes to mind.

SEER: What is it?

Written by Brody Pennell on June 19, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, Energy Efficiency, HVAC Installation.

While you are shopping for a new HVAC system, you have to become a quick learner of HVAC jargon. There are a lot of terms and abbreviations that you may not be familiar with. One of the most frequently asked questions about air conditioners is about SEER. What is SEER? Why is SEER important? Should I buy a system with a higher SEER?

First, let’s define what the abbreviation SEER is:

S.E.E.R. stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and it is a standard for measuring how efficient an HVAC unit is.
Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning

SEER is defined by the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). It is a calculation of the total cooling capacity of an air conditioner divided by the total electric energy it is expected to use. When the ratio is higher, less electricity is used to to do the same amount of cooling. Basically, the higher the SEER, the more efficient the system, and the lower the energy bills will be. SEER ratings range from 14 – 40+.

How SEER works

You can think of SEER like miles per gallon on a car. When you are car shopping, miles per gallon is displayed prominently on the information sheet. This helps buyers gauge about how much their gasoline will cost if they drive the vehicle regularly. Similarly, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings help homeowners estimate the electric utility costs they can expect from the system.

An easy way to tell if a product has a “good” SEER is if it has an ENERGY STAR ® emblem with the product information. For example, the Carrier Infinity GreenSpeed product is not only an ENERGY STAR ® product, it is also labeled as a Most Efficient product for 2019 in the program.

Why SEER matters to your wallet

Since a heat pump or air conditioner will last you 10-15 years, homeowners should definitely take seasonal energy efficiency ratio into consideration. Products with efficiency numbers in the 30s and 40s are more expensive because they have better-performing components and controls systems that allow them to use less energy. Plus, manufacturers often back in extra comfort features and other benefits into these top-tier products.

Systems with lower SEERs will be more affordable in the beginning. But, your monthly energy bills will be pricier than if your purchase equipment with a higher rating. And since financing is an option with HVAC systems, you shouldn’t let the system cost of an air conditioner hold you back from purchasing a more efficient system. Plus, high-efficiency systems often qualify for rebates and other promotions.

The environmental impact of SEER

Did you know that air conditioning makes up the greatest piece of your energy bill? It’s true. A 2015 study by the U.S. Energy Information Administration showed that air conditioning makes up about 17% of all residential energy consumption. That’s more than anything else in your house!

Since energy usage is on the rise, and HVAC making up a huge portion of our consumption, it is critical to find ways to use less energy. Efficient cooling and heating systems can be an immense help to the environment.

In 1992 the U.S. Federal Government established the first minimum seasonal energy efficiency ratio for all units made in the USA. A lot has changed since then!

Products sold in California must be at least 14 SEER. The highest SEER products are ductless mini splits. You can purchase a ductless mini split with a SEER rating as high as 42!

Efficiency for your home

Brody Pennell can help you decipher all of the HVAC jargon. We have been providing superior heating and cooling services to the LA area for more than 70 years. And as a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, we are well-versed in all the different products available to you. Whether you’re looking to go completely green, or just looking to balance the cost and benefit of a higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio, Brody Pennell can help guide you. Call us today for more information!

HVAC Sizes: How do I know what size HVAC I need?

Written by Brody Pennell on June 11, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, HVAC Installation.

When you are thinking about buying a new HVAC system, an important consideration is the sizes of available equipment. Just think: this new cooling and heating system will be serving your home for ten years or longer. It’s important to get this right!

For cooling and heating systems, it’s important to get the right size of equipment.

Bigger is not better – Rounding up might seem like a good idea, but over-sizing HVAC equipment can lead to lots of operational problems. An HVAC system that is sized too large will turn on and off regularly. That’s not only annoying for the people in the space, but the incessant startups will wreak havoc on your energy bills. And, it can lead to a shorter equipment lifespan.
Less is not more – It goes without saying that you don’t want to undersize your equipment. An under-sized HVAC will not be able to keep up with demand. Even if you think you’re not using very much of your HVAC system, consider the days where your home gets the heaviest use. For example, friendly gatherings or bake-offs in the kitchen. You want your system to be able to keep up in those scenarios!

Now you know the importance of investigating sizes of HVAC equipment. So how do you get to a number?

The Trouble with Using the Same HVAC Size

A lot of homeowners think that if they are replacing an HVAC system, they don’t need to worry about sizes. Just use the same size as the existing HVAC. Right?

The truth is that this approach can be problematic.

So before you get too far down the path in ordering a new heating and cooling system, consider if you’re experiencing any of these issues with your current setup:

Does your HVAC seem to be running constantly, or only turning off very briefly?
Conversely, does your HVAC system kick on and off, rarely staying on for more than a few minutes?
Are there areas of your home that aren’t being cooled or heated to your comfort levels?

If you are having any of these troubles with your cooling and heating system, you will be better off looking at different sizes of HVAC equipment. Our highly-trained technicians at Brody Pennell can help you choose the appropriate size system for your home.

Special Considerations for HVAC Sizes when Replacing

Homeowners that are replacing their HVAC should consider improvements that have been made to the home. Changing physical features of the home, adding energy-saving improvements, or remodeling spaces can impact the size of an HVAC system.

When you meet with a licensed contractor at your Los Angeles home, be sure to tell him or her about any changes you’ve made to the home since your current HVAC system was installed. Some of these items include:

New windows
Improved roof insulation
Additions of new spaces
Remodeled areas like kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms, or home gyms
Finished out spaces like attics, basements, or garages

Determining the Right Size of HVAC Equipment

So, what size does your air conditioner or furnace actually need to be?

If you’re building a brand new home, adding a new space, or you have done many renovations to your home, a load calculation needs to be performed.

A load calculation takes into account a number of variables. For example, how many windows you have, the orientation of your home in comparison to the sun, and insulation in your walls and roof. A load calculation will also include the heat generated by the people, lights, and electronic devices in your home, just to name a few. An industry standard for load calculation is the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J method.

When you have a final load value from the calculation, you’ll know what size your HVAC needs to be.

Isn’t there a simple rule of thumb?

If you’re doing research about HVAC sizes, you might find simplified methods for determining the load. For example, a certain number of tons per hundred square feet. Simple online tools will also spit out numbers for you. Homeowners should use caution when using these tools. These tools make sweeping generalizations about your home, and may not be able to produce accurate numbers.

Work with the best… and save money, too

The team at Brody Pennell has been in the heating and air conditioning business for more than 70 years. We understand how to size equipment correctly the first time by doing industry-standard heat load calculations.

Right now we are offering great specials on HVAC systems of all sizes. With the Carrier Cool Cash program, you can get up to $1,650 off a new HVAC system. You can combine this deal with other incentives, like utility rebates and financing. Now is a great time to buy if you are on budget – this is the best deal of the year.

Between our long history in LA, and our partnership with the best equipment manufacturers, our team can then provide a range of solutions that will best meet your needs. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today!

Replace AC and furnace at the same time?

Written by Brody Pennell on May 31, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, HVAC Installation.

Sometimes, all the home repairs come at once. Although it can be a headache to deal with multiple repairs – especially in Los Angeles – there are some advantages. For example, you can look at solutions that otherwise wouldn’t have been feasible. So when it comes to HVAC sometimes customers ask, is it a good idea to replace your AC and furnace at the same time?

The answer is: it depends. There are pros and cons to replacing the two major components of your HVAC system. As a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer serving LA for over 70 years, we are well-versed in this predicament!

Advantages to replacing AC and furnace together

Your furnace and your air conditioner work together to heat and cool your home. Did you know: even during the summer, your furnace is working? That’s because your furnace contains the blower fan that helps move air through your home. The evaporator coil for your air conditioner is the indoor portion that makes that air cold. In short, your furnace and your AC work together and not independently.

There are several advantages if you want to replace your AC and furnace at the same time:

Reduced downtime – by doing both installs at once, you can limit how long your heating and cooling system will be inoperable.
Improved system efficiency – since air conditioners rely on the blower in a furnace to move air, the efficiency of the fan matters greatly to the efficiency of your air conditioning system. So, when you replace both your AC and your furnace you’ll realize greater efficiency gains than if you replaced just one.
More options – If you decide to replace all the components in your HVAC system, you can consider other system types. For example, a heat pump system or a ductless system may be a good option for your home. These systems offer cooling and heating from a single device. In this case, you’d be replacing two pieces of equipment with just one.
Save with promotions and rebates – Most deals that are available to homeowners are limited time offers. That includes lucrative HVAC rebates from local utility companies. Rebates don’t always make a comeback, so when they are available to you its a great time to take advantage. Usually, incentives will be offered for air conditioners and furnaces separately. So if you replace your AC and furnace at the same time, you can double dip!

Disadvantages to replacing your AC and furnace simultaneously

Although there are a lot of benefits to replacing these two systems together, there are some drawbacks.

The obvious first challenge relates to the total cost of the investment. There are lots of ways to save on a new HVAC system, but there’s no getting around this one. It will be a pricey endeavor! The silver lining is that when you replace both systems at the same time, you’ll save on the total cost of the installation. Replacing just a furnace is somewhat expensive, but adding a furnace replacement to an AC replacement is just a few thousands dollars.

Another hang-up to replacing your AC and furnace at the same time would be if you plan to sell soon. HVAC replacements are known as invisible improvements. A brand new heating and cooling system just isn’t as sexy as a new kitchen or a resort-style pool. When it comes to selling your home, a new heating and cooling system will be a bonus to buyers – but likely won’t improve your home’s value. So, if you think you’ll be selling in the next few years, it may make sense to only replace one piece of equipment or the other.

When does it make sense to replace my AC and furnace at the same time?

There are a couple of scenarios that would make us recommend replacing both systems simultaneous.

Replacing Your Furnace – Furnaces can last as long as 30 years. So, if you’re already looking at installing a new furnace for your home, you might as well look at your air conditioner at the same time. The newer, more efficient HVAC equipment available often combines the heating and cooling systems.
Retirement – If you’re nearing retirement age, now is the time to take care of these more expensive home repairs. Once you are on a fixed income, it can be more difficult to arrange for big home projects.
Complex Installation – Homes with tight crawl spaces or difficult-to-access outdoor spaces (such as condos in downtown LA) may benefit from replacing all their systems at the same time.

Reliable HVAC Installations in Los Angeles

At the end of the day, only you can decide what is best for your home. If you’re seriously considering replacing both your AC and furnace, we recommend speaking with a professional. A highly-trained representative can help guide you and provide custom recommendations for your home. The award-winning team at Brody Pennell would be honored to serve you! Contact us today to schedule a home visit.

How Do Air Conditioner Rebates Work?

Written by Brody Pennell on May 20, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, HVAC Installation.

When making a major home repair, one way you might look to save money is by using rebates. When in comes to heating and cooling, there are many rebates for air conditioner available to help make purchases more affordable.

So, what are rebates? Rebates are a post-purchase discount. That means you don’t receive the discount until after your purchase has cleared. You are probably familiar with how coupons or discount codes work. Rebates are similar to discounts. But, instead of the money coming off of the initial purchase price, a rebate is something that you have to request after you purchase your HVAC.

Air Conditioner Rebates: The Lowdown on How They Work

You can save a ton of money when you take advantage of rebates on HVAC system. If you’re shopping for a new AC or heating system with a rebate in mind, it’s important to know the exact steps to realize your discount.

First, note that you will still be responsible for the total purchase price. Whether you’re paying up front or taking advantage of financing, the total amount you owe will be the final price of the system. So, even if the air conditioner qualifies for a rebate, it probably won’t be reflected in the final quote you receive.

Air conditioner rebates are often specific to a brand, system type, or efficiency levels. Before you go shopping for a new cooling and heating system, make sure you know the requirements for the rebates. Our team here at Brody Pennell can help you find rebates that qualify. In fact: when it comes to rebates, we have every incentive to help you find the most savings.

How to Secure Your Air Conditioner Rebates

Once you have purchased your system, you need to submit all the necessary information for the rebate. Sometimes rebates will be time-bound. For example, rebate forms must be submitted within 30 days of purchase. So, make sure you know all of the rules about the rebates and submit your information as soon as possible.

Rebates are not automatic. You have to request the rebate in order to get it! These days, most rebate requests can be submitted online. So, it’s easier than ever to get your incentives. The most important thing is to remember to make the request on-time and with all the required information. Most HVAC rebates require information like model number, installer information, and a copy of the purchase receipt.

Make sure you submit rebate request for all organizations offering HVAC rebates. Many times there are multiple incentives offered simultaneously. Right now in LA homeowners can save up to $2,850 by combining promotions from different organizations. Taking advantage of multiple offers is the best way to save big, but that means a little more legwork. Make sure you submit individual rebate applications to all the organizations offering rebates.

Once your rebate request has been approved, you’ll receive a check in the mail for the amount of your rebate. This can be as quick as a few days, or as long as a few weeks, depending on how busy the team is that is handling rebates at the different companies. When you’re waiting on your rebate, make sure you check your mailbox regularly. Most rebates come in an nondescript white envelope. So, be careful! Double check the contents of your mail before tossing an envelope that appears to be junk mail.

Recap: Rebates for Air Conditioners and Heaters

To summarize, here’s how to make the most of HVAC rebates in LA:

Choose a new HVAC system to purchase by talking with a qualified HVAC installer
Verify that the air conditioner or heater you have chosen qualifies for a rebate
After purchasing, collect necessary information for rebate application
Submit rebate request on-time and to all organizations
Get your cash back in the mail

That’s it!

Need help with Air Conditioner Rebates? Brody Pennell can help!

Rebates for HVAC systems come and go. So when you’re looking for the best deal, give our team a call. We can help you select a system that will meet the requirements to help you cash in on rebates.

Should I set back the temperature when I leave my house?

Written by Brody Pennell on May 8, 2019. Posted in Air Conditioning, Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, Home Comfort, Thermostat.

If you get sticker shock each month when you see your energy bill, you may be looking for ways to save energy around the house. Here’s a common question our customers ask: “Should I set back the temperature when I leave my house?” After all, most people turn off lights and water when they aren’t using them. Why cool an empty house?

Air conditioning is one of the appliances that uses the most energy. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, air conditioning makes up 17% of the energy used in homes in mixed-dry climates like Los Angeles. So, it’s no surprise you might be thinking about your AC when you think about saving energy.

By the way, what is setback? Setback is a term used to describe the act of changing your thermostat from the normal, comfortable temperature set-point to another temperature in order to save money on HVAC operation. The setback temperature might not feel comfortable to you if you’re sitting in a space that is cooled to the setback temperature, but the idea is that you won’t be there while setback temperature is in operation!

Is it worth it to change your thermostat when you leave the house?

Before deciding whether or not to set back the temperature, there are a few things to consider.

First, think about how long you’ll be away. Will it be a few hours, or several days? Next, is how much to set back the temperature by. Setbacks are not created equally – setting back your thermostat by 1 or 2 degrees is different than setting it back by 5 or more degrees. Finally, is humidity a problem in your house? For LA customers closer to the coast, battling humidity in your home may be more of an obstacle than for those in the city.

Leaving the house for a couple of hours

It may be tempting to leave your AC running when you leave for work or head off to run errands. It’s one more thing to think about as you scramble to get out the door. Plus, it’s nice to come home to a nice, cool house.

But if you’re serious about saving energy, it’s important to adjust your thermostat while you’re away.

The Department of Energy indicates you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling if you set back the temperature while you are away for 8 hours. Turning the temperature back 7°-10°F is your best bet. The ideal summertime temperature for setback is 78°F.

The truth is that you won’t get much benefit from setting back the temperature by only one or two degrees – but something is better than nothing. We always recommend our customers set back the temperature, even when they only leave for four hours.

If remembering to set back the temperature is a problem for you, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. When you use a programmable thermostat, you can set up your thermostat to set back automatically. And, you can start cooling your home before you arrive home by programming your thermostat to automatically turn on sooner.

When you’re away for several days

If you’ve read this far then you already know: it is absolutely beneficial to set back the temperature if you’ll be away from your home for several days. If your home is empty for weeks on end you may be tempted to turn off your AC completely.

But, there are a few more considerations when you’ll be gone for a long period of time. The most important consideration is humidity. Air conditioners help remove humidity from the air in your home. So, it’s important to keep your AC running even if the home is empty.

If you’re leaving for travel, set back your temperature setpoint by at least 10 degrees. But, don’t turn it off completely!

Another benefit to temperature set back

Setting back the temperature is an easy way to save energy. But, you’ll get even more bang from your buck when you turn up the temperature.

Because your air conditioner won’t be working so hard, you’ll be adding years of life to your AC system. When you run your AC at full-blast even when you’re not home, it is more likely to break down sooner. So, all the more reason to set back the temperature.

Jennifer M

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Juan Molina Was very thorough in our maintenance. This is the first time we’ve had such a detail oriented technician out to our property. Very pleased with his services.

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Juancho and Marcos was great

brian H.

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Mike I, Raul I, Enrique L, Danny P and Brian G were the crew that came to replace our ductwork and install a new furnace. They were very professional, they worked quickly and cleanly, and were respectful of my home and neighbors.

Marco L.

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Daniel B y Daniel A fueron muy amables y hicieron su trabajo muy bien!

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Service Request Commercial Visit HLB Lighting Design Culver City CA- by Anna Ballard Executive Assistant Operations HLB Lighting. I adore the team of JAMES and MAURICE! James and Maurice, they are professional, attentive knowledgeable and shared each step of the progress with photos and detailed information. They listened carefully to my many many questions and provided expert guidance throughout the entire service visit the air units are purring wonderfully and I appreciate their time and work! Looking forward to the their return in 6 months

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Juancho did a very thorough job.

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Juan Molina provided a thorough explanation of the process for installing a new HVAC system in my home. He detailed costs for replacing the current unit and a specific time frame. Brody Pennell has a true professional in this man. He is an excellent representative of your company. Good job Brody Pennell!Beverly

Katrina N.

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Christian, Alex, Jose and Diego installed a new unit in our place last week. We're happy with their work. It took some time, but everything was well organized and went smooth. It makes sense to notify your neighbors about possible noise and crew working on the roof, especially if the crane is involved.

Jennifer J.

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Daniel B. Is the best!

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Had a great experience working with Kevin.

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Really appreciate the team coming out to get the hvac working. Just in time for our newborn baby. Shout out to David E and Anthony 🙌

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Anthony Manzo and Daniel Alvila were awesome, they did a great job and I recommend them highly

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Ivan and Daniel B are amazing!

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Daniel Bautista and Ivan Diaz are great !

Steve B.

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Update:Ariel and Juan DJ just left after thoroughly inspecting and cleaning 3 sets of heating and air systems and had understable explanations for the work being done, really great (5/6/24)Spencer, Mike and Ariel all were exemplarySpencer smartly contacted Mike to ascertain the full parameters of our problem and while waiting initiated with Ariel our condenser maintenance. And Mike presented us with options that satisfied our needs. Great team

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Giovanny was professional, timely and very thorough.

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Great service today from Leo H and Tristen. Personable, professional, and thorough.

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Anthony M and David E were very professional and personable.

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I just had a service call with Brody and Juan Carbajal was very professional and knowledgeable. He walked me through his process and got the issue fixed within a couple of hours.

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On time and very professional as always. Jose was a great representative for the company. Great communicator, very professional and knowledgeable.

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Rene did an excellent and thorough job. Jose came to fix AC and did an excellent job as well!

michelle w

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This is a class "A" team.. Alessandro A, Rafael B, Rosendo V and Brian G... The team was knowledgeable, punctual, professional and high performing. They worked as one unit and removed and installed a 3.5 ton system seamlessly. I would be remiss is I didn't mention the Crane Driver, he is amazing !!!.Alessandro took the time to address additional concerns that my tenant had and even returned to take care of the breaker that tripped.If you need a HVAC system replaced, I would not only use Brody Penell, but request this team!!!Thank you, TEAM A ( Alessandro, Rafael, Rosendo and Brian).

Roberta

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Our HVAC system was serviced by your technicians Leo H. and Tristen. We were texted to let us know they were on the way and arrived promptly. They were very pleasant, worked rapidly, cleanly and efficiently, and did a most thorough assessment of our system. They then told us in detail all that had been done to service our system and made some recommendations about additional service. It would be our pleasure to have them return to service our system in the future.

Julian Q.

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Daniel B and Armando, they both did a great job!

JEREMY M.

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Terrific service, very thorough and professional. Steven Juanes was friendly, clear and meticulous in inspecting and servicing our heating/cooling units. He explained everything in great detail and advised us about further maintenance without pressuring us to get it done. We have a two mini-split units which can be really tricky to work on, but Steven was ultra-knowledgable and took extra time to work on the roof venting/connections. Look no further, this company always delivers excellent service!

sara G.

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Juan Romo got our A/C up and running and also let us know of any other issues/different solution options! He was absolutely wonderful!

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Juan Molina was very Professional and very thorough. Answered any and all questions we had. He got rid of that irritating noise we had and thoroughly clean and put our system together and is in excellent working order.

Bonnie Reuben N.

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Rene Morales, service technician, was extremely knowledgeable, courteous and constructive. He saw right away what issues need to be addressed with our equipment, and we are in a path to resolve. I would like to have Rene handle our annual maintenance each year going forward

Maria E.

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Jose CThey make a good job😊

m T.

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Anthony Manzo any David Mares were great - a pleasure to work with. Knowledgeable professionals and nice guys. They did great work and we will request them for our next service.

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Ruben and Angel were awesome. Very thorough and professional. Best HVAC gentlemen that I have worked with in quite some time.

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Marco Ayala did a great job. He was thorough and straightforward.

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Juan Molina was the best, he was detail oriented and clean and fast service.

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Ashton, Field Supervisor, was great. We trusted his recommendations for a new heating system. He will personally come with the installers to make sure our home is taken care of and everything goes well.He also connected with us personally, so it was an enjoyable experience.Cesar CCesar was excellent. Cheerful, professional, clean, very skilled.He explained how to use our zone system properly. We didn’t know.He re-set things so the system won’t get too hot and we will be safe.Cesar tested everything to be sure it was working well.I give him high scores for customer service.Thank you for sending him right away when our system shut off.April 2024Cesar Corrales came for regular maintenance service. He returned to install a part in the condenser so it lasts longer.With him the first time was Freddy, then Maurice. They also did a good job. They are learning from Cesar.Cesar is extremely thorough, checking every aspect of the system. He and I’m doing a review Freddy even took the top off the condenser and cleaned it out with the vacuum, then hosed it. Amazing!Cesar is so knowledgeable and answers all my questions. He’s also very personable, kind, and has a sense of humor.Cesar is respectful and courteous. He goes out of his way to keep everything clean in the house.I highly recommend Cesar and the people who come with him to learn from him.

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Rene Morales did a great job! Got us back and running.

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Enrique, Jose and Gerson did a great job installing our cooling on 5/2/24 thank you.Desi Sanchez was very professional and efficient in checking and tuning our HVAC system. He took great care to double check his work and explain what he was doing. I'll continue to use Brody Pennell and ask for Desi for future visits.

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Juan de Jesus

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I’m so glad I found Brody Pennell. Setting up the appointment was a breeze. Rene showed up on time was very friendly very communicative and an excellent worker. He kept me informed on everything showed me pictures of what was on the roof and in the attic. I’ll definitely be using them again.

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Juan Romo was a professional and broke down everything that was wrong with our unit and how to fix it

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Love Brody Pennell! They make my AC life easy! Daniel A. And Juan D. did an exceptional job today with their visit! Kept me informed of their progress and made it easy! They were also super nice about my crazy barking dog!

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Work will proceed Monday. Meantime Ivan answer all questions and some. There was an integrity about this tech that made it easier to feel confident about our decision working with Brody. Thank you 😊Today Octavio & Ivan came and got busy baby. I am so happy with the work and these two gentlemen. I actually purchased the service warranty. This way I feel confident they'll keep my AC & heating systems puuurrring.Thank you Brody Pennell...😍🥰

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Our technician David M and field support Michael S performed a maintenance and health assessment on my old furnace, and were able to help me figure out the best upgrade options. I appreciate their attention to details, the thoroughness of their work and evaluation, and their very professional and cordial attitude. I highly recommend and appreciate the professionals at Brody Penell.

CRMCSYS

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4.8.2024Marco Ayala (technician), Juan U. (apprentice) and their supervisor Ashton were courteous, patient and thorough. They reviewed the problems I have with my Carrier unit and explained why I needed it replaced. I was given the choice of 3 new models with price and labor for each. They offered to contact my HOA’s management company for the roof installation and will arrange a city inspection after the work is completed. I would not hesitate recommending Brody Pennell to family and friends.5.1.2024Update: Edgar Hernandez, an installation tech, came today to adjust the settings in my Honeywell wall panel and was as polite and knowledgeable as the previous techs. More good news: I wasn't certain if BP's electrical contractor(s) only dealt with large projects or they are also available for individual homeowner concerns. Edgar assured me I can call them for electrical work.Every time I phoned BP the automated answering system placed me on hold but someone always picked up my calls within 30 seconds. BP sent emails confirming appointments. The day of the appointments I received emails and texts with the full name and photo of the techs (which addresses security concerns for a single person living alone) and links to a map so I could track the progress of the techs with estimated arrival times.

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Juan C. and Juancho we’re both very knowledgeable of the job they did! I definitely recommend them.

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Kevin Lopez, and Ruben Medina at Brody came in late this afternoon and saved me from an evening from...well you know-Best company out there, and growing fast-well deserved!

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Juancho was prompt, communicative and friendly. He took his time to thoroughly perform the requested service and explain to me what was done. We are very pleased with his service!

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Maurice came and serviced our system. He did a wonderful job and was very friendly and professional. Highly recommend!