As we transition into the colder months, NWA Cooling & Heating is here to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient. This month, we’re excited to share important updates about refrigerant changes, offer tips for heating your home efficiently this fall and winter, and share a special Thanksgiving recipe. Let’s dive in!
| Important Notice: Upgrade Your HVAC System While You Still Can! |
| At NWA Cooling & Heating, we wanted to inform you about an important changein the HVAC industry that could impact your heating and cooling system. The transition to new refrigerants—R-32 and R-454B—is now underway, and it’s essential to understand how this could affect your current system. |
| Why Is This Change Happening? |
| Older refrigerants like R-410A are being phased out due to their environmental impact, specifically their high global warming potential (GWP). The new refrigerants, R-32 and R-454B, are designed to be more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. |
| Will your current system work with these new refrigerants? |
| Unfortunately, existing HVAC systems using R-410A are not compatible with R-32 or R-454B. If you’ve replaced any components—such as coils, condensing units, air handlers, or heat pumps—in the last few years, your system you should consider replacing the remainder of your system while equipment is still available. |
| Why should you act now? |
| Delaying this upgrade could lead to costly repairs or full replacemetns in the future. As we move closer to the phase-out of older equipment, prices are expected to increase significantly due to high demand and supply chain shortages. Upgrading your system now ensures you avoid price hikes and ensures compatibility with the new refrigerants. You will not have the option to replace just a coil, air conditioner or furnace after January 1, 2025. You will have to replace the entire system. |
If you have any questions or are curious about upgrading your system, feel free to contact us!
Fall & Winter Heating Tips
As temperatures drop, it’s essential to prepare your home’s heating system for the colder months. Here are some simple tips to ensure your system runs efficiently:
- Check your furnace filter – A clean filter improves airflow and helps your furnace work more efficiently.
- Schedule a maintenance check-up – Ensure your heating system is ready for winter by having it inspected and tuned up by a professional.
- Seal air leaks – Inspect your home for any drafts around windows and doors. Sealing these gaps can prevent heat loss and keep your home warmer.
- Use a programmable thermostat – Set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Energy-Saving Tips for Heating
Want to keep your energy bills in check this winter? Here are some energy-saving tips to help you stay warm without breaking the bank:
- Lower your thermostat – Dropping the temperature by just 1 degree can reduce your heating bill by up to 5%.
- Reverse your ceiling fan – Set your ceiling fan to spin clockwise to push warm air back down into the room.
- Upgrade your insulation – Proper insulation in your attic and walls keeps the heat where it belongs—inside your home.
- Keep curtains open during the day – Take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth by opening curtains and blinds during daylight hours.
By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a cozy home and lower energy costs all season long.
Thanksgiving Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Pie
No November newsletter is complete without a Thanksgiving recipe! Here’s a simple and delicious pumpkin pie recipe to enjoy with your loved ones this holiday.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the pie cool before serving. Enjoy with whipped cream or ice cream!
Sugar Free Version
Ingredients:
- For the crust (you can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own):
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
- For the filling:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3/4 cup monk fruit sweetener (granulated)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges and flute if desired. Set aside.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, monk fruit sweetener, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Add the eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
- Assemble and bake:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
- Serve with whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.
Thank you for being part of the NWA Cooling & Heating family. We wish you a cozy and energy-efficient November, and a very happy Thanksgiving! If you need any heating services or have questions about our refrigerant changes, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay warm,
The NWA Cooling & Heating Team
(479) 579-8728
