Kolter Homeowner Guide

Fireplaces Not only do fireplaces add a touch of beauty, they also warm your home. But whether the fireplace is wood burning, gas, or electric, using them properly and safely is vital.

Cooling & Heating System

An efficient heating and cooling system in your home is designed to keep you and your family comfortable.

One of two types of heating and cooling system is in your home:

1. Air conditioner and furnace.

2. Heat pump for heating and cooling.

The systems operate differently.

Air conditioner and furnace Furnaces burn oil, natural gas, or propane to generate heat. They transfer the heat to the air and push it through the home. Air conditioners cool the air via a coil that removes heat from the air. A fan unit outside the home disperses the heat. Heat pump Heat pumps serve both heating and cooling functions. They’re most often found in moderate climates that get neither too hot nor too cold. Heat pumps don’t operate well at low temperatures — they have to work too hard — so they’re not suited for areas where below- freezing temperatures persist. There are a variety of heat pump styles but air-source pumps are most common. They transfer air between the inside and outside of the home. Air-source pumps cool the interior air by removing heat and transferring it outdoors. They provide heat by transferring

Care and maintenance Follow all maintenance instructions from the fireplace manufacturer and those below. Electric and gas fireplaces Inspect fireplaces twice annually or whenever they’ve not been used for extended periods of time.

Do not burn wood in electric or gas fireplaces.

If you smell gas, call your gas company. Call a contractor if you see arcing. Until a professional has repaired it, don’t use the fireplace.

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