"For Your Comfort" Monthly Newsletter

Ray's Heating and Air Condtioning • June 1, 2025

Humidity, Mini Splits and You

🌤️ June Weather in Champaign, IL

June in Champaign is expected to bring comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 83°F and nighttime lows near 61°F . The month typically experiences higher humidity levels and approximately 8 to 11 days with rainfall, totaling around 4.3 inches.


The highest temperature on record is 103°F. In 2022 we had 2 days of 100°F temperatures. 

Air Conditioners will start to work overtime in June. This leads to more breakdowns. A Clean and Check or and Elite Guard Maintenance will give you the best chances of avoiding after hours calls or long wait times to be scheduled. 



☀️ Understanding Indoor Humidity and Dehumidifiers

High moisture levels can lead to mold and mildew growth, dust mites, and other allergens, potentially exacerbating allergies and respiratory issues. Furthermore, prolonged humidity can also damage furniture, flooring, and structural elements of your home.

A whole-home dehumidifier works by pulling excess moisture from your indoor air, helping to maintain balanced humidity levels. Unlike the dehumidifier you buy from the big box store, a whole house dehumidifier like an Aprilaire E100, dehumidifies much more of your home's air and can even be ducted into your existing ductwork. By controlling indoor humidity, these devices help create a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Key Benefits of Proper Indoor Humidity Control:

  • Improved Air Quality: Reducing allergens such as mold spores and dust mites.
  • Comfort Enhancement: Keeping indoor environments comfortable by managing humidity.
  • Protecting Your Home: Preventing damage to furnishings, walls, and floors.



❓Q&A: Mini Split Systems Explained

Q: What is a mini split HVAC system?
A: A mini split system is a ductless HVAC solution designed to provide targeted heating and cooling. It is particularly useful for rooms or spaces without existing ductwork or those needing supplemental temperature control such as sunrooms or additions.


Q: How energy-efficient are mini splits?
A: Mini splits are highly energy-efficient. They utilize inverter technology to precisely control energy consumption.


Q: Can mini splits be used to condition an entire home?
A: For cooling, Yes. While individual units control specific areas, multiple indoor units can connect to a single outdoor unit, effectively cooling your entire home with zoned temperature management. Although many mini splits are heat pumps that can produce heat as well, I would not suggest mini split heat pumps as the main source of heat in a home in our climate.


Have questions about Mini Splits? Let’s talk!
📞 Call us at 217-367-5264.




PSA: Gently hose down your air conditioner before the weather gets too hot. This cleans the condenser coil and allows the outside system to “breathe”. This will help your system run efficiently. 

📸 Check out this BOSCH install!

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By Ray's Heating and Air Conditioning • November 1, 2024
🔧 Fix it or Replace it? In the Cold November Rain 🎸 As we head into November we can expect average daytime highs around the mid 50s°F, with nighttime temperatures dropping to the low 30s°F. Be prepared for some chilly, late fall weather, with the possibility of frost towards the end of the month. Keep an eye out for a few cold November rain showers and possibly some early snow flurries! 🥶 How low does it go? As recently as November 12th, 2019, temperatures plunged to -1°F. But, the coldest November temperature on record in our area occurred on November 25th, 1950, with a low of -5°F. Low-Efficiency vs. High-Efficiency Furnaces If your furnace has a metal vent pipe, it's a low efficiency furnace. If your furnace has a PVC vent pipe, you have a high efficiency condensing furnace. The main difference between low and high efficiency furnaces is how effectively they convert fuel into heat. Low-efficiency furnaces typically operate at around 80% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), meaning for every $1 you spend on gas 20 cents escapes out of your chimney. In contrast, we install high-efficiency furnaces with AFUE ratings of 95% or higher. These high efficient furnaces significantly reduce energy waste and lower your utility bills. High-efficiency models also have sealed combustion chambers, making them quieter. Not sure if you should stay with an 80% or upgrade to a 95% or higher furnace? Schedule a free estimate and we can discuss your options. 🤔 Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace? A common question we get this time of year is whether to fix or replace a furnace. Generally, if your furnace is over 15 years old and needs a costly repair, replacing it might be the better long-term option. If it’s newer and the repair is small, fixing it can help it last longer.  If you're facing a pricey repair, ask for a free estimate on a new furnace as well. Compare your options and choose what’s best for you. Some companies may push for a replacement claiming expensive repairs are required. If you want an honest second opinion, give us a call! Have a question? Reply to this email and we will do our best to answer it. It may even be featured on a future newsletter New Install We recently installed the new Aprilaire 720 whole house humidifier. Five ways a whole house humidifier can improve the comfort of your home this winter… Health Benefits: Reduces airborne viruses and respiratory irritants for safer air. Comfort: Prevents dry skin, static, and headaches in low-humidity months. Home Protection: Maintains wood floors and furniture, preventing damage from dryness. Energy Savings: Minimizes drafts, improving home efficiency and lowering heating costs. Better Sleep: Eases breathing and reduces dryness for more restful sleep. Thanks for reading!
fall landscape

"For Your Comfort" Monthly Newsletter

By Ray's Heating and Air Conditioning • October 1, 2024
October Weather Outlook: As we transition into October, we can expect temperatures to cool off, with highs averaging in the mid-60s°F and lows dipping into the upper 40s°F by the end of the month. Occasional rain showers are possible, especially in the latter half, so don't forget your umbrellas! It’s the perfect time to ensure your heating system is ready to go. A Look Back at Local Weather: Did you know that October 2023 brought a record low of 23°F in Champaign? While such extreme lows are rare, it's always good to be prepared for those sudden cold snaps. Get Your HVAC System Ready for Fall: As the weather turns from warm to cool, now is the ideal time to prepare your HVAC system for the cooler months. Here's what you can do: Schedule an Elite Guard Maintenance to ensure your furnace is working efficiently. Replace your air filter to help improve air quality and efficiency. Test your thermostat to ensure it switches seamlessly from cooling to heating. Does your thermostat need batteries? If so, now is a good time to replace them. At Ray’s Heating and Air Conditioning, we recommend our Elite Guard Maintenance (EGM) to keep your system running smoothly all season long! Have you heard? There are some exciting updates in the residential heating industry that can help homeowners like you save energy and reduce costs: Smart Thermostats help homeowners save energy and lower bills by learning routines and adjusting temperatures automatically. With smartphone apps, you can control your home's temperature from anywhere. High-Efficiency Furnaces reduce energy use and lowers utility bills, while improving comfort and reducing noise. It’s a smart investment for long-term savings and a smaller environmental impact. If you're thinking of upgrading, it’s a great time to explore the benefits of newer technologies! Should I Be Worried About My Furnace the First Time I Turn it on? One of the most common concerns homeowners have is that burning smell when they first turn on the furnace. This is completely normal! Dust accumulates on the heat exchanger and other parts of the furnace during the off-season, and the smell is just the dust burning off. However, if the smell persists or if you notice any odd sounds, it’s best to give us a call. Thanks for reading!