Spring Archives - The Bosworth Company Kerrville

Spring Cleaning

Posted on March 30, 2020 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

Can you feel it? Spring is in the air! We’re still having cool weather in the mornings, but things are starting to heat up during the day! Soon, it’ll be time to switch those thermostats from HOT to COLD. But before you do, make sure to follow these important spring cleaning (maintenance) tips:

CHECK REFRIGERANT

Refrigerant is what keeps your A/C cool! Your HVAC won’t run efficiently unless you’ve got the right amount of refrigerant in the system. Any unnecessary strain will make your a/c wear out more quickly, break down, and lead to expensive repairs. It will also make your electric bill go up.

AIR FILTERS

You should already be changing your air filters on a regular basis. If they get dirty, that means air isn’t getting through meaning your air quality will suffer. It also means your HVAC unit is working overtime to push that air through. If allergies are a problem, you’ll definitely want to get those filters cleaned before blasting them with the air conditioning!

CLEANING THE COILS

Before you crank it up, you also need to make sure that condenser coils and evaporator coils have been cleaned. This is even more important if your outdoor unit is not covered during the winter months. Dirt, dust and other debris can build up and prevent the airflow system from working properly. While you’re at it, clean out all the leaves from around the exterior unit.

CHECK THE DUCTWORK

The ductwork in your attic should also be cleaned and inspected prior to using your A/C. Leaks or tears can cause you to lose efficiency and even allow dust to get into the system.

SCHEDULE A CHECKUP

The Bosworth Company provides a variety of services for your HVAC that will take your spring cleaning to the next level. To set an appointment for a routine spring checkup (our Spring Clean & Check), call us today at 830-428-2764 or schedule an appointment online. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

HVAC Tips For Spring

Posted on April 10, 2017 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

Spring is in full swing! There are certain things you can do to to make sure your HVAC is operating efficiently this time of year. Have a look at the HVAC tips for spring below!

Ductwork

Spring is the perfect time to check out your existing ductwork. If you’ve noticed that a room in your home is significantly warmer or cooler than the others, you might have a collapsed or damaged duct. If this is the case, your HVAC is working harder than necessary to keep the temperature stable. For you, this means additional money in utilities and having to replace your AC unit before its recommended life.

Insulation

Before the heat of summer, consider having additional insulation installed. Not only will this added insulation keep your home cool in the summer, but it will help keep it warm in the winter too! Like efficient ductwork, an appropriate amount of insulation means less strain on your HVAC system.

Condensate Lines

If you didn’t already know, the condensate line is a tube that helps remove drops of condensation from your air conditioner unit. Over time, the line can become clogged. When there is nowhere for the water to go, it accumulates and eventually causes leaks.

Filters

When was the last time you replace your air filter? These can accumulate dust, pollen, pet dander, and other debris floating around. It’s important to change them (at least) every 60 days during low-use months…and monthly when they’re in heavy use.

Outdoor Units

During the fall and winter, dust and debris accumulates on your outdoor condenser. Remove this debris from around the unit and the fin area. To remove built-on grime, consider using a water hose.

Spring Clean And Check

So add these HVAC tips for spring to your spring cleaning checklist to save yourself money and your unit efficiency! Don’t forget, we offer a Spring Clean & Check service. Schedule yours today!

Spring Cleaning Shortcuts

Posted on March 20, 2017 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and the flowers are blooming…spring is finally here! You know what that means…spring cleaning! But who has the time to tackle spring cleaning? We have good news, check out our spring cleaning shortcuts below!

Area Rugs and Carpeting

Don’t worry about emptying a room to vacuum! Just move furniture out of the way and replace as you go. For rooms with area rugs, just roll up the rugs and vacuums beneath. For rooms with wall-to-wall carpeting, use the edger vacuum attachment to clean the space between the baseboard and the floor. (Tip: while you’re down there, use the long-bristle attachment to clean the baseboard.)

Curtains

Remove fabric window treatments and tumble them in a cool dryer for 15-20 minutes. This will shake the dust from them and leave them looking as good as new!

Windows

While the dryer is freshening your window treatments, dampen an eyeglass-grade microfiber cloth with water and use it to clean windows for a streak-free shine. Use a regular microfiber cloth over the woodwork trim.

Ceilings and Walls

To remove cobwebs and dust from painted or wallpapered walls/ceilings, wipe ceilings and walls with a clean microfiber mop. For textured or stucco walls/ceilings use a feather duster instead of microfiber.

Hard-Surface Floors

For quick, deep cleaning on hardwood, tile, vinyl and laminate floors use a steam-cleaner; it’s a perfect tool for pulling up dirt and melting away grime!

Ovens

For ovens without a self-cleaning feature, prepare a paste of water and baking soda. Apply it to the inside walls and floor of the oven, and spritz vinegar over it. Let this set for just a minute or two, and then wipe it down! If you do have a self-cleaning oven, be sure to set it and then go outside for some yard work…this way you can avoid those strong fumes!

Refrigerator

Wipe off the top of the refrigerator with a water-dampened microfiber cloth. If the dust is really thick, moisten the cloth with cleaner. It is also best if you can move the refrigerator away from the wall and clean the coils with the brush attachment on your vacuum. Doing this will help your refrigerator run more efficiently and save money in energy bills!

Dishwasher

Add non-abrasive cleanser to a damp microfiber cloth and run it along the inside rim of the dishwasher door. This will remove any accumulated food build-up. Spritz with water and wipe dry with a paper towel.

Spring Clean & Check

These spring cleaning shortcuts will help breathe some spring air into your home! Now that the inside is clean and tidy, it’s time to tackle the systems. Contact us to schedule a Spring Clean & Check from The Bosworth Company!

Water-Wise Garden Tips For Spring

Posted on February 27, 2017 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | 1 Comment

We all love a good spring garden. But the lack of rain we get in West Texas can leave you wondering if that’s even possible! Have a look at these garden tips to create a high color, low water, garden this spring!

Direct Water

Use a path of small and medium-sized smooth stones to direct rainfall where you want it to go. For example, if you know you have water drain down the drip edge of your roof, create this path under the stream and direct its flow with stones. To find out how to utilize rainwater, check out our blog: How To Collect And Use Rainwater.

Mini Mountains

Speaking of stones, incorporate rocks of all sizes in your garden to add height and define spaces, like mini mountains. There doesn’t have to be a method behind where you place the rocks, just wherever you think they look best.

Plant For Color

Use annuals minimally. Mix perennials, woody plants, culinary herbs, grasses and cacti for a mixture of both color and texture.

Attract Nature

Welcome birds and bees with nectar-rich flowers. Include perennials such as daylilies, columbines, lupines or an annual such as impatiens or petunias. Herbs such as rosemary, basil and lavender are also excellent nectar sources. Purple sage is also a colorful, bee-attracting bush to have.

Shop Local

Local nurseries carry unique plants that can thrive in your garden. Not to mention the people who work there are knowledgeable about the area, soil, and growing patterns. Use them as a resource for recommendations!

Consider Height

Try including plants and trees with height to help balance your garden. Sculptural plants, such as the yucca tree, add shape, height and texture. Some will even hold up during winter!

Grow Where They Go

Unlike rose bushes, don’t feel that you have to constantly maintain a water-wise garden. Let the plants you choose naturalize and find their place.

Hopefully those waster-wise garden tips above help you with a high color, low water garden this spring! For other tips like these, follow our boards on Pinterest!

6 Ways To Cut Cooling Costs

Posted on April 19, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

It may just be spring, but West Texas is already feeling the heat! You may be wondering how you can cut cooling costs and save money this season. Follow these steps (and build the habits) to cut cooling costs once and for all.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could boost your AC’s efficiency by up to 10% by planting trees or shrubs that will shade your outdoor air conditioner unit.
When you aren’t at home or when everyone is asleep at night, increase the temperature of your air conditioner’s thermostat more than you would when everyone is at home. Keeping your home at a comfortable 78 degrees and increasing it at night (and when you’re away) can save 5-15% on your air conditioner bills, according to the Department of Energy.
Don’t forget to regularly replace your AC filter. Keeping your air filter clean allows for good air movement through your home.
Avoid using the oven and stovetop during the day (the best time to use them is at night). The heat from these appliances increases the heat in your home. During and after cooking, be sure to turn on the exhaust fans. The same rule goes for taking a hot shower. To decrease the heat put off from the shower, turn on your bathroom fan.
According to the Department of Energy, if you replace your old air conditioner with a new unit, you can cut your cooling costs by up to half (depending on the age of your old unit). When shopping, look for a high-energy-efficiency ratio or EER (or Energy Star). A higher ratio means higher efficiency. Have a look at The Ultimate Comfort System by Lennox here.
Set your AC fan on “high,” except for humid days, where your fan should be set on “low.”

Hopefully, those ways will help to cut cooling costs during these hot spring and summer seasons! If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system, now is the time to buy! In fact, you can save up to $1700! Learn more about our current promotion here.

How To Spring Clean Your Pipes

Posted on April 12, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

We’ve discussed the importance of seasonal system checks, but have your pipes been “spring cleaned?” We know that most people associate spring cleaning with closets, kitchens and garages, but this pipes and plumbing are often forgotten! Find out just how to spring clean your pipes!

Sinks

To check your sinks for leaks, fill the sink up all the way with water, letting it drain all at once. The large amount of water running through the drain will help identify leaks that may not be seen otherwise. Pay attention to the sounds you hear as the water drains. Any “glug glug” noises may indicate a problem with venting. Inspect the exposed pipes under the sink for puddles or drips.

Water Heater

Drain several gallons of water out to flush out corrosive material that could potentially shorten the life of your water heater. (Replacing your water heater after 15 years of use will save you money and provide more energy efficiency.)

Drains

Run water down all drains to see that water is flowing correctly. Snake any slow moving drains to make to ensure water is able to freely move through. To prevent clogs in the future, try adding strainers to all drains.

Toilets

If the toilet handle has to be held for a long period of time, it may be time to replace worn tank parts. Replaced parts can result in a lower water bill! Also, be sure to check for leaks and cracks in your toilet bowl.

Outdoor Pipes And Gutters

Don’t forget to go outside! Make sure all debris is cleared from gutters. Using a hose, run water from a space far from the downspout to clear finer debris.

In addition to knowing how to clean your pipes, you’ll probably want to know how to remove calcium buildup from those sinks & faucets. Check out our tips on that, too! If you find any leaks while cleaning your pipes and plumbing, call The Bosworth Company today at (432) 570-5233 or use our online service request form.

Bosworth’s Guide To Spring Cleaning

Posted on March 29, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

We’re happy that spring is finally here! Spring is the perfect time to “freshen up” your home after the winter season…but where do you begin? No worries, Bosworth has you covered with our guide to spring cleaning!

Bosworth’s Guide To Spring Cleaning

dust around mirrors, picture frames, and wall hangings
replace light bulbs (consider going LED for the energy/cost savings)
replace batteries in smoke detector
replace batteries in carbon monoxide detector
have chimney swept
schedule pest control maintenance
dust crown molding and baseboards
clean scuff marks from baseboards and doors
dust ceiling fans
dust light fixtures and lamps
dust bookcases and shelves
rotate fan direction to counterclockwise
touch up paint
vacuum or wash window curtains
dust window blinds
clean windows
polish wood furniture
wipe down and vacuum furniture
condition leather furniture
remove stains from upholstered furniture
vacuum and wash lampshades
vacuum all flooring (don’t forget the corners & edges!)
deep clean hardwood, tile, linoleum
shampoo carpet (DIY or schedule a professional)
remove rugs to shake out, then vacuum, then clean under them

But wait…

…is your AC system ready for the season change? Don’t forget your filters, coils, and connections should all be checked. Don’t wait until a hot spring day to discover a problem with your AC! Prevent dreaded AC problems with a Spring Clean & Check from The Bosworth Company! Schedule yours today!

Happy spring cleaning!

Lennox Promotion: Save This Spring!

Posted on March 22, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

Spring is here! Guess what that means…

…yes, the trees are blooming and the birds are chirping, but what else does the spring season bring?

Air conditioning! Yes, AC season is here! Pretty soon, you’ll be cranking up that AC…is your system due for an upgrade?

If so, you’re in luck! You can save this spring with our latest Lennox Promotion. Take a look!

Between now and June 10, 2016 you can receive up to $1,700* in savings when you purchase & install a qualifying Lennox home comfort system.

With approved credit, you can qualify for 0% financing for 2 years! In addition, you can receive an additional $500* in tax credits!

(*Visit energystar.gov/taxcredits for full details and minimum requirements.)

With this current Lennox Promotion, you can receive up to a $1,400 rebate on a complete home comfort system. This includes:
•An iComfort Wi-Fi® Thermostat
•A qualifying high-efficiency air conditioner or heat pump
• A qualifying high-efficiency gas furnace or air handler

PLUS
Receive an additional $100 when you add an iComfort S30 thermostat onto any complete system

PLUS
Receive an additional $100 rebate when you add an iHarmonyTM zoning system onto any complete system

PLUS
Receive an additional $100 when you add a PureAir system onto any complete system

…for a total savings of up to $1700!

So why wait? Take advantage of these spring savings and this could be your coolest spring yet! Contact The Bosworth Company today!

The Importance Of Seasonal System Checks

Posted on March 8, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | 1 Comment

Spring is almost here, and while most of us are thinking about Spring Break, blooming trees, and warm sunshine, it is important to also remember the systems within your home. Discover the importance of season system checks!

At the start of spring, people tend to crank up their air conditioners…but if the air conditioner hasn’t been used in months, how do you know if it’s ready for spring use? Or how will you know if one of your electrical connections has disconnected? Probably not until it’s too late. Seasonal check-ups could prevent spending hundreds on repairs.

At Bosworth our Spring Clean & Check includes:

Check, clean or replace filter(s)
Clean condenser coil
Check electrical connections
Inspect and/or clean condensate drain
Inspect safety controls
Check refrigerant charge
Lubricate motors
Check amperage
Check and calibrate thermostat(s)
Check condenser fan motor(s)
Check relays and capacitors
Check temperature differential
Maintenance supplies

Regularly having a furnace inspection (winter) and and air conditioner inspection (spring) performed ensures that your HVAC system is working properly and has been cleaned and tuned-up. The risks of your system breaking down are greatly reduced leaving you worry free about dirty filters or disconnected electrical connections. Additionally, your equipment will also be more energy efficient, reducing your electric bill. What could be better than that?

Protect your systems, your home and your family by checking your systems before the official start of the spring season! So contact us today to schedule your spring clean and check!

Ways To Prepare Your Home For Spring

Posted on February 23, 2016 | by The Bosworth Company Kerrville | Leave a Comment

The spring-like weather we’ve had lately sure makes us ready for spring! With the spring season less than a month away, it is time to start preparing your home (and the systems within it) for the change in weather. Check out our ways to prepare your home for spring!

Fill The Low Spots

Find the low spots in your yard and fill them with compacted soil. Spring rains can cause yard flooding which can lead to foundation damage. Also, when water collects in these low areas, it creates a breeding ground for insects (and no one wants those mosquitos swarming around!)

Check The Roof

From the ground, examine your roof for missing/damaged shingles. Snow and ice can really do a number to your roof. If you do notice significant damage, you may want to contact your insurance company and consider replacement before the start of spring/summer.

Inspect Concrete

Inspect exterior concrete slabs for cracks. All exterior slabs (with the exception of pool decks) should drain away from the home’s foundation. Fill cracks with concrete crack filler or silicone caulk, power wash, and seal.

Move Firewood

If you stored firewood near your home during winter, you need to remove it. Firewood should always be stored at least 2 feet away and 18 inches off the ground.

Check Faucets

Check the exterior hose faucets for freeze damage. Turn the faucet on and place your thumb under the spout. If you can stop the flow of water with your thumb, that means that the pipe inside is damaged.

Professional Clean & Check

It is always best to have a HVAC professional come out to inspect your outdoor AC unit. More than likely, it will need to be cleaned and serviced. Clean coils not only keep your unit operating at maximum efficiency, but it also extends the life of your unit (saving money in the long run)!

At The Bosworth Company, our concern is your comfort. Before the start of spring, contact us to schedule a spring clean and check for only $109! Ensure your system is operating efficiently and effectively for the spring and summer seasons.