The Sentinel

Spartans defeat Illineks, Hess collects another hat trick

Tyler Hess celebrates with Spartans after scoring a goal

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph-Ogden's Tyler Hess is congratulated by teammates after scoring a goal in the first half. The junior led the team to a 5-3 win over University High on Wednesday at Dick Duval Field. Hess, who is the top finisher in the area with a hat trick in the team's first three matches this season, will try to make it four in a row in the undefeated Spartans' road game against the Vermilion Valley Conference's Hoopeston Area Cornjerkers on Friday. More photos and game recap coming soon.

📲 Share this photo: Facebook | X (Twitter)

Tags: St. Joseph-Ogden soccer, high school sports, SJO Spartans, Illini Prairie Conference champions

Regular HVAC maintenance saves money, energy and improves air quality

Dirty filters and ducts cost you more than you think. Regular duct and system cleaning improves efficiency, reduces repairs, and helps protect your HVAC investment.

NAPSI - Whether you’re staying cool during the summer or keeping warm in the winter, your HVAC system is a year-round necessity. However, to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts for years, regular maintenance is essential. Clean HVAC systems not only save money but also help conserve energy.

Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Matters

Many homeowners take their HVAC system for granted—until something goes wrong. Routine maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns, improves energy efficiency, and extends the lifespan of equipment.

1. Improved Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained HVAC system uses less energy to heat or cool your home. When filters are clogged, ducts are dirty, or parts are worn, the system must work harder, driving up utility bills. Clean systems can deliver fan and blower energy savings of 41% to 60%.

2. Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system filters out airborne particles such as dust, allergens, and pet dander. Neglected filters can reduce air quality and trigger allergies or respiratory issues. The American Lung Association advises that maintaining your HVAC system and upgrading filters can improve indoor air quality.

3. Extended Equipment Lifespan

Like a car, HVAC systems require routine tune-ups. Preventive care identifies small issues before they become expensive repairs. A National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) study found cleaned HVAC systems show less dependence on backup equipment, reducing long-term costs.

4. Reduced Risk of Breakdowns

No one wants their furnace to stop in winter or an air conditioner to fail during a heatwave. Routine upkeep lowers the chance of sudden failures, keeping your home comfortable.

5. Cost Savings

Maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repairs or early system replacement. Some manufacturers even require regular servicing to keep warranties valid.

How NADCA Helps You Have Cleaner Air

NADCA sets industry standards for air duct cleaning, ensuring certified professionals follow proven guidelines. Using specialized tools, NADCA members remove contaminants and help improve HVAC performance. Regular duct cleaning can boost efficiency, extend system life, and enhance air quality.

Find a certified professional at NADCA.com or learn more at breathingclean.com.

HVAC maintenance tips for homeowners, How to improve indoor air quality with HVAC, Cost savings from regular HVAC tune-ups, NADCA-certified duct cleaning benefits, Energy efficiency through HVAC upkeep