Air Conditioning maintenance
Air Conditioning maintenance

Indoor Air Quality Troubles and Your Filter

Air Quality Inside and Your Filter

Air quality is a big deal. If you want to revel in optimal wellness, then you need to do anything in your power to keep the air quality inside of your living space fresh and clean. There are many perks to strong air quality indoors as well. Some of these include sleeping more soundly at night, keeping humidity levels in check, healthy breathing patterns, decreased horrible smells and even doing away with pesky allergens. If the air quality inside of your residence is strong, it may even slash your monthly energy expenses considerably. It doesn’t matter if you want to say goodbye to allergens or save cash. Enhancing the air quality in your home should always be among your top priorities. That’s exactly why you should zero in on the state of your filter. If your air quality is amiss, then your filter could actually be responsible for things. Your filter may not be doing its job of making your air quality inside better.

Inadequate Flow

If you’re wondering why your air quality inside is lacking, then you should think about the possibility of inadequate flow. There are sometimes issues that relate to filter and dust sizing. This can lead to system pressure boosts. This, in turn, can decrease the flow of air dramatically. It’s also rather common for people to neglect the need to swap their filters out routinely. This can bring on lessened air flow and intense pressure.

Insufficient Runtime

The concept of insufficient runtime is rather shocking to many people. Filters are solely able to do their jobs when they have air that’s actually traveling within them. That means that turning systems completely off does away with any and all filtration, end of story. The solution, though, isn’t to go for a HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system that’s a lot more compact. This can lead to different issues altogether. Systems that are more compact can decrease the flow of air.

If you truly want to do away with the hassle of runtime that’s insufficient, then you need to make a point to meticulously assess all of your size necessities. Refrain from placing your fan in “on.” Your aim should be to boost your filtering factor substantially. Try to concentrate on mechanical ventilation and the sealing of air. Don’t panic if those strategies are fruitless, either. If they are, then it may be time for you to introduce the help of a fan that’s independent. Get one that’s equipped with a filter. These kinds of fans can give you the advantages of filtration volume that’s superior. Their running abilities are superior all the same.

Filter Positioning Woes

If there’s an issue with the air quality that’s inside of your home, then you should think at length about the specific location of your filter. That’s because it could be in a spot that’s totally inappropriate and ineffective. If a filter doesn’t take any action whatsoever, that means that it doesn’t have air that’s traveling within it. A filter that has this issue may have severe positioning woes. If you realize that your air quality inside is amiss in any manner, then you should investigate your filter’s spot without a second of hesitation.

Mechanical Ventilation Troubles

Mechanical ventilation is a vital element of a filter that does its job correctly day in and day out. Ventilation often aims to employ cooling and heating ducts for the purpose of spreading air from the outside around. It isn’t unheard of for HVAC contractors to sometimes err. An HVAC contractor may fail to concentrate and attach air ducts that are outside to inappropriate filter sections. This can bring on unpleasant results as well. It can cause air from the outside that isn’t filtered at all to go in the ducts. This can trigger the soiling of cooling and heating elements alike. It can trigger the soiling of the blower and the ducts as well.

Taking Action

You should go the extra mile to zero in on the status of your filter and HVAC system. It can be favorable to monitor your ducts. You need ducts that are 100 percent devoid of grime and debris buildup. Ducts that are free of these undesirable things can give your residence access to air that’s markedly fresher and more pleasant at all times.

Don’t forget to switch your filters out frequently. Doing so is particularly crucial for people who have issues with allergies.

Look at your doors and windows with great care. Do you spot leaks at all? If you do, then you need to take the time to close them up meticulously and prudently. If your residence permits the entry of air that’s just not cutting it, then you may have a system that’s actually causing you harm. It may actually transport problematic air all throughout your living space. If you make the effort to do away with any and all leaks, then you can see to it that your system exclusively spreads around air that’s fresh and conducive to optimal well-being.

Is Your Indoor Air Quality Lacking?

If your air quality indoors is lacking, then you may realize that easily. You may have allergies that act up all of the time. If you and your family members are constantly sneezing and getting splitting headaches, your air quality could be the issue. Contemplate the way that air spreads all throughout your home, too. If you pick up on certain sections of your home that are always strangely hot or cold, then your filter could be behind everything. If you want professional assistance with air quality, filters and beyond, then you need to call our trusted company today. Call us A.S.A.P. to set up an appointment with an HVAC contractor who is seasoned and adept.

Repairing air conditioner
Repairing air conditioner

Air Conditioning Maintenance Frequency

The Value of Maintaining Your Air Conditioning System

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems are just like all of the other components that make up your living space. They require routine care and maintenance work. If you want to keep your air conditioning unit at home in five-star shape, then you need to put in the necessary effort. Thankfully, you can do that by reaching out to our capable and experienced HVAC technicians. Air conditioning units that are ignored and not maintained properly tend to experience issues of all kinds. Breakdowns aren’t at all uncommon in air conditioning units that are routinely neglected. Neglected units may stop working entirely out of nowhere long before their expected “expiration dates.” Air conditioners typically remain effective for anywhere between 12 and 15 years in total, although this length of time varies. The better you maintain your cooling unit, the longer it should last you.

AC Maintenance and Frequency

If you want to keep your cooling system in A+ condition all year long, then you should make regular maintenance one of your biggest upkeep priorities. It can be wise to get professional maintenance service for your air conditioner a minimum of annually. People regularly make the choice to get their cooling units professionally assessed by technicians during the spring months, too. This makes complete sense. That’s because people tend to use their air conditioners heavily as soon as the summer months roll around.

A lot of different things go into air conditioner service. Professional technicians put a lot into maintenance sessions. They meticulously assess AC units for indications of possible issues. Once they do that, they thoroughly clean them. They make any and all essential tweaks and adjustments for optimal functioning as well.

There are many diverse components that are part of the comprehensive air conditioning maintenance process. Technicians replace old air filters. They sometimes make the decision to clean them, too. Indoor coil cleaning is a major aspect. Cleaning this coil can promote drainage that’s effective. It can strengthen the flow of air in a big way. This job is highly intricate and because of that is something that always calls for a professional touch, no exceptions.

Exterior coil cleaning work is just as critical. If you want your air conditioning system to work like a charm, then you need an outside coil that’s devoid of debris and other undesirable things. A squeaky-clean exterior coil is vital for keeping your appliance intact and strong for many years. It’s vital for general efficiency all the same.

Condensate pump cleaning is yet another key aspect of AC maintenance work. People occasionally make the mistake of dismissing these pumps. Ignoring these pumps can in some situations bring on troubling air conditioner breakdowns that can waste substantial amounts of time. If you don’t look after and clean your condensate pump, it may become a haven for nasty muck accumulation.

Technicians employ their eyes in order to meticulously evaluate air conditioning systems during maintenance sessions. They’re aware of clues that can denote issues big and small. There are so many advantages that are associated with routine and thorough air conditioning service. Getting air conditioner service can make your appliance a lot more reliable. If you don’t want to have to worry nonstop about possible summer breakdowns, then service can give you better peace of mind. There are few things in life that can be more irritating than an air conditioning unit that stops working on a dime in the middle of a hot afternoon in July or August.

Regular AC upkeep can also be a terrific thing for your pocketbook and finances. Technicians have the ability to pinpoint any and all issues that may be coming up. That’s how they’re able to safeguard people from experiencing air conditioning troubles in the first place. It doesn’t matter if you dread minimal airflow, leakage, annoyingly loud sounds or anything else. If you get routine maintenance work done on your unit, you might not ever have to deal with those things.

Maintenance can also significantly optimize the efficient of your cooling unit. Since it can make your cooling unit a lot more efficient, it can decrease your energy expenses dramatically, too. If you want to revel in the rewards of lower household expenses, then regular cooling maintenance can be a massive boon.

Replacing a cooling unit in full can cost a lot of money. That’s why most people do anything they can to avoid it. If you want your air conditioning unit to remain in excellent shape for as long as possible, then you need to make sure it gets sufficient maintenance work. If you maintain your cooling unit well, then you most likely won’t have to replace it for years and years. This can end up lowering your expenses substantially. It can be tough to have to save up to buy a brand new system for your home.

Indications That Your Cooling Unit Requires Prompt Service

Annual maintenance sessions are optimal for people who want to keep their cooling units in strong working order. It’s also imperative to be attentive to indications of existing cooling unit difficulties. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your air conditioning unit, then you need to request professional repair work without delay. The sooner you do so, the better. Waiting around can in many situations exacerbate cooling troubles. That can make them markedly costlier to fix, too. If there’s anything amiss with your air conditioning unit, it may have airflow that’s remarkably feeble. It may make strange sounds at all times of the day. It may give off odors that are less than fresh and welcoming, too. If you have an air conditioner that’s in particularly big trouble, it may stop turning on.

Regular air conditioning service can keep all kinds of hassles out of your mind. It can keep your living space pleasant and airy, too.

Clean Air Conditioner
Clean Air Conditioner

How Keeping Your AC in Good Condition Can Avoid Health Issues

While most people associate health issues and discomfort with the colder months of the year, the summer season is not without its fair share of sickness-causing problems. As the temperature rises, air conditioners go to full blast, turning offices, homes, and public spaces into havens where you can stay cool in the summer heat. Despite the joys of being in a climate-controlled space, it’s not uncommon for people to suffer sinus issues, headaches, and even asthma-related problems.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not your AC that’s causing those complications. In fact, cool air can be quite beneficial if you suffer from respiratory problems. That uncomfortable feeling that some people associate with their air conditioner may actually be caused by poor maintenance and pre-existing dangers within the building.

Air conditioners are engineered to make your home more comfortable and safe to be in. However, they can’t their job if they’re not adequately maintained. Here’s some crucial information on how AC units can affect your health and some useful tips on how you can take advantage of AC services to avoid problems.

Common Symptoms of “Air Conditioner Sickness”

For the most part, the idea of “air conditioner sickness,” is just an old wives tale. In the early days of modern climate control systems, many people believed that the cold these machines produced were causing a unique illness. You may have heard your grandparents provide warnings against staying in a cool room for too long. While that concept has long been debunked, there is a small grain of truth to it.

If you spend your entire day cooped up in an air-conditioned building, you may start to develop some uncomfortable symptoms. These could include:

  • A stuffed nose
  • Weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Coughing
  • Headaches

So why do these problems occur? Well, it’s a good idea to examine your AC as well as your building.

Blame it on Mold and Bacteria

Mold and bacteria are a very real threat that can affect your well-being. To make matters worse, mold can go undetected for many months or years. In the meantime, you’re breathing it in on a daily basis. Furthermore, mold and bacteria will spread the longer it’s ignored.

In most cases of “air conditioner sickness,” mold is the culprit. Air conditioners are designed to circulate air throughout the home. Unfortunately, this process can make mold and bacteria airborne, bringing it to parts of your home it doesn’t normally access.

To avoid health issues, it’s important to take care of mold at its source. AC units can keep your home dry, but they won’t tackle the root cause of mold or eliminate any existing issues. Mold and bacteria typically accumulate in the following areas:

  • Underneath sinks
  • Basements, attics, and crawl spaces
  • Below leaking pipes
  • Around appliance hookups
  • Within faulty HVAC ducts
  • On AC coils and drain lines
  • In potted plants

Preventing Asthma Issues

Asthma suffers need to be extra vigilant with air conditioning service appointments. There are many things that could trigger allergies and cause attacks. While there are accessories and equipment that are specially made to filter air and avoid asthma-related complications, triggers can still find their way in.

Filters aren’t effective unless they’re clean and properly installed. If not, those allergens are free to circulate your home. To avoid being affected by common triggers, you can utilize professional AC services to:

  • Clean or replace air filters
  • Remove mold from AC system
  • Take care of condensation leaks

Air Conditioners and Sinus Problems

Another issue that’s commonly associated with air conditioning is irritated sinuses. It’s true that staying in cold environments can result in runny noses and clogged sinuses. However, it’s not the AC itself that’s causing the problem.

ACs work to remove humidity from your home, resulting in cool dry air. If you have your unit on the coldest setting possible, you’re creating a very dry environment that’s not good for your body. In an extremely dry setting, the moist lining in your nose evaporates. Without that lining, your more susceptible to the effects of bacterial infections and mold.

It’s always best to keep your air conditioner at a moderate setting. If you start to experience sinus discomfort, consider raising the temperature a few degrees to introduce a bit more moisture into the air. Also, get assistance from air conditioning service professionals. Clogged sinuses are a tell-tale sign that you have mold in your home.

In addition to spreading it around your home, air conditioning units can be a source of mold all on their own. As air passes over the coils in the system, condensation is produced. Usually, the moisture is drained out of a dedicated line without a problem. However, leaks can occur. A service professional will be able to diagnose a leak and find a solution to prevent mold from growing.

Regular Maintenance is Key to Staying Healthy

Overall, a poorly maintained air conditioner unit is to blame for many of the health issues that people face when they’re cooling off during the summer. While the air conditioner is not causing those problems directly, they may be making it easier to pre-existing problems to affect your well-being.

An air conditioning service company can help you avoid these issues. Professionals can take a look at your HVAC system and face potential concerns head-on. With regular maintenance appointments, you can catch potential sickness-causing dilemmas before they become a bigger hazard. Among many other things, AC experts can take care of:

  • Dirty air filters
  • Faulty condensation lines
  • Dirty coils
  • Refrigerant leaks

It’s recommended that you have your AC examined at least once a year. Having the system inspected and tested before the summer season starts will ensure that your home or office building is safe and comfortable to be in. Contact your local HVAC professional to schedule your maintenance appointment today.

Breathing fresh air
Breathing fresh air

Removing Household Odors with an Air Purifier

Our homes can be filled with smells, both good and bad. The flowers that smelled so lovely when they were first placed in a vase begin to wilt and smell of rot. The odor of the delicious fish dinner is less appetizing when it lingers in the kitchen in the morning. Strong odors can affect your quality of life. If you are sensitive to smells, they can trigger nausea and other allergic reactions. Installing an air purification system can get rid of the chemicals that cause the odors.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

When most homeowners think about air quality, they think about temperature and humidity. Yet there are all sorts of irritants that can float around in your air. On a sunny day, you might be able to see dust and dander floating in a sunbeam. There can also be mold spores and pollen.

There are also impurities that you cannot see. Bacteria and viruses can float in the air. Small droplets of cleaning products and aerosol products linger after use.

Another important group of irritants are volatile organic compounds or VOCs. These are molecules from several sources that can get in your air supply. Microscopic droplets of oil can float around after preparing fried food. As plastics, paints and adhesives breakdown over time, they also release chemicals into the air.

If indoor air quality issues are not addressed, it can lead to health problems:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Fatigue
  • Respiratory issues

Where Do Odors Come From?

Your nose is a powerful tool. It can discern thousands of unique smells. Most of the odors you smell are the result of VOCs that come into contact with the smell receptors in your nose. Whether it is a smell of fresh-baked bread or cigarette smoke, it is the result of a molecule that has been floating in your air.

One of the problems many homeowners face is the fact that human beings tend to get used to common smells. If it is always present, you may not recognize a bad odor. However, the guest coming into your home will be surprised.

There are some simple solutions to dealing with temporary odors. Whenever possible, you should try to remove the source of the odor.

  • Store trash outside the house.
  • Open windows in the kitchen for fresh air when cooking.
  • Keep cigarette smoking outside.
  • Address mold and mildew quickly.

Professional Solutions for Odor Removal

It is often tempting to try covering up unpleasant odors with air fresheners or scented candles. These can help for a minor odor problem, but they are only replacing one set of VOCs with a stronger smelling set of VOCs. To permanently remove odors, you must get the chemical signatures out of the air. This is where filters and air purifiers come into play.

There are several systems that can help improve air quality and remove odor. These are usually installed in the ductwork of your climate control systems. As air travels through the ducts, it is forced to flow through the air purification system. Small, portable units can be used to improve the air in a single room.

  • HEPA filters
  • Activated charcoal purifiers
  • Charged media filters
  • Electrostatic precipitators
  • Photo Electrochemical Oxidation Purifiers

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are especially effective at removing small irritants from the air. A true HEPA filter can remove almost all the particles that are larger than 0.3 microns. To put this in a perspective, a small grain of sand is about 50 microns in size. While this sounds like it should handle most of your home’s particle problems, viruses, bacteria and VOCs are all smaller than 0.3 microns.

HEPA filters can be an important part of an air quality system. They can remove several common irritants and their associated smells from the air.

  • Pet dander
  • Dust
  • Ash
  • Pollen

Activated Charcoal Purifiers

Activated charcoal has long been a way to remove toxins. This substance was once considered a cure-all for poisons. Some people still use it as a natural remedy.

This form of carbon has been especially heated so that it is more porous than normal charcoal. Chemically, it has a slightly negative charge and so attracts many compounds as they float through the air. This means that it can remove VOCs from the atmosphere, which will remove odors from your air.

There are some things to consider when using this system:

  • The amount of charcoal in the filter increases its lifespan.
  • The carbon slowly gets saturated and needs replacement.
  • UV-light combined with activated charcoal can remove chemicals and kill viruses and bacteria.

Charged Media Filters and Electrostatic Precipitators

Another style of purification system involves using electrostatic energy to trap particles. A charged media filter uses electrostatically charged fibers to trap particles that are smaller than 0.1 micron. This will handle many impurities, like cigarette smoke. However, most VOCs are still much smaller than this very small size.

An electrostatic precipitator relies completely on the power of an electric charge to remove impurities. The air passes through a series of charged metal plates. Fine particles are attracted by the electrostatic charge and stick to the plates. The plates need to be removed and cleaned periodically. However, there is no filter to replace.

Technician is checking air conditioner
Technician is checking air conditioner

How Long Should You Expect Your Air Conditioner to Last?

Thinking how long it will take before your current A/C unit fall apart and calls for a costly replacement?

Most customers presume that companies are out to get their money when they advise on the need for replacement of their air conditioners. We understand that an A/C unit is an expense, but how can you tell when it’s time to replace your air conditioner?

The hot summers in Florida cause the A/C units to overwork to keep you fresh during these hot days, thus resulting in hectic air conditioning repairs bills. However, here is a list of signs you can tell in case that you need to either replace or seek air conditioning services for you’re A/C unit. We also provide tips on how you can take to ensure that your system lasts for many years.

  1. Age

The rule of thumb when it comes to the shelf life of an A/C unit is that after 10-15 years, it is high time to replace the unit. A/C replacement is a wise investment strategy instead of relying on air conditioning repairs on the old system. After this specified period, it is highly likely to expect the system from breaking down.

However, with proper maintenance of the system, it can extend its life while giving you top service. In case you cannot recall the system’s age, you can write down the model and serial number from the manufacturer and inquire about the details. For our customers, we have an excellent compilation of all the records which you can acquire information about your system from our staff.

  1. Increase in Electric Costs

With years of operation, the coil within the system is bound to reduce its efficiency. The reduction is due to the decrease in the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) of old systems. With the loss of each SEER increment, this loses up to 9% of the efficiency.

The reduction inherently means that your electric bills are bound to soar. In case you have high bills piling up with other root causes ruled out, it can due to the age of you’re A/C unit causing the upsurge in electricity.

It is high time you consider replacing your air conditioner or alternatively AC repairs. Consult a local licensed expert for air conditioning services to perform a system evaluation scheduled for the next maintenance. We have experts within Florida with expert service for your air conditioner with annual maintenance.

  1. Humidity

The coil is detrimental in determining the state of your system in terms of functioning. The primary function of the evaporator coil is humidity extraction. With the system aging pasts its shelf life, the system reduces its functionality concerning its operational standards.

The moisture buildup leads to the creation of a humid environment in your home, and this further makes your home feel damp than fresh. Other signs that your evaporator coil needs replacement it’s the presence of mold growth or freezing.

  1. Other Related Variables

Apart from humidity, high electric bills, and age, which take a toll on your system, there are other factors which play a role in affecting the longevity of your air conditioner. Many manufacturers produce HVAC systems frequently. The frequent manufacturing leads to the development of different components in the systems, which might be far better or worse in another system.

The Power of Maintenance

The main secret behind a fully operational A/C unit is with the performance of a proper maintenance schedule. With proper maintenance, your system can work for up to 20 years without breaking down instead of 10 years maximum operation after installation.

A crucial essential thing to remember is that the performance level of your system is different compared to other states. The shelf life of your system is enhanced with the seasonal tune-ups and the regular air filter changes.

How to Increase the Longevity of your System

The average service period of most systems within Florida serve 5 to 7 years, which is less compared to other states owing to the seasonal tropical climate. The external system is profoundly affected by the climatic conditions and further by other factors such as humidity, heat, salt, and sulfur from storms.

During the summer, your air conditioner is put to the ultimate test with the increasing heat taking a toll on the system. However, there are small AC services you can carry out in your home, like changing the air filter of your system. Before seeking air conditioning services, you can purchase the right filter at a convenient hardware store nearest to you.

It is essential to ensure that the condenser unit is strategically located to prolong the life of your air conditioner. The condensers on the air conditioners which are located facing north of your home tend to outlive condensers which have been found on the other sides of the house. This is because they are less affected by sunlight exposure. Experts recommend that you cover the condenser during fall and winter to reduce the buildup of debris.

Tips to Increase Performance of your Air Conditioner

In case you want to get the most out of your air conditioner, ensure that you have a licensed professional perform the AC maintenance annually. These tune-ups are usually less costly and can save you the expenses on replacement of an air conditioner.

With AC repairs from a technician, they can check on the condenser to ensure the unit is efficient and clean. In case it is clogged with dirt, they can remove the dust from the fins and the outer housing to increase its overall operation and long lasting performance.

It is also highly recommended that you keep the thermostat set at a slightly warmer temperature during the months of summer to avoid frequent AC repair. It is advised to maintain the room temperature at 72 degrees during the hot summers. At 72 degrees, it is comfortable around the home compared to external humid conditions.

Maintaining your air conditioner will increase the longevity of your AC repair efforts, which will serve you for years. In the case of AC services, you can schedule an appointment with an expert staff to ensure your AC unit is running efficiently.

Air Conditioner Maintenance
Air Conditioner Maintenance

25 Simple, Effective AC Maintenance and Home Cooling Tips

Air conditioning is often one of the most expensive contributors to energy costs in the average household. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most temperamental services. The 25 tips below are simple, easy to do at home and can help maximize the quality of the air conditioning services in your home.

List of 25 AC Maintenance Tips:

Do Some Research On How Your HVAC Unit Works

The standard modern air conditioning unit is comprised of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. Unless you live in an apartment or condo complex, the outdoor unit typically sits outside your home next to one of the exterior walls. The indoor unit, also known as the evaporator, is the main duct that is located inside your home near your furnace.

Make It A Priority to Clean Your AC Units

You should make it a priority to continually inspect the two basic parts of your AC services unit to make sure that they are clean, working properly and free of debris. You can use a vacuum with a simple hose attachment, a damp rag and a brush with soft bristles. You may have to use a screwdriver to remove the covers on each part of the unit. Be as gentle as you clean the unit!

Remove Debris Buildup

Every year you should lift the top of the exterior unit and remove larger debris such as leaves by hand.

Invest In A Programmable Thermostat

While you may not want to spend money on your AC unit, a programmable thermostat is one of the simplest ways that you can actually end up saving a good deal of money on your monthly bills. These thermostats allow for automatic cooling as the temperature rises and falls. Many smart home thermostats also allow you to change the temperature from your smartphone, ensuring you never leave the AC blasting while you are at work or out of town.

Do A Complete Pre-Summer Check

The summer months take a toll on your AC system. The best way to keep it running efficiently and keep you cool is to use a simple checklist to assess your system before a problem occurs. You may also want to schedule an annual appointment with an AC repair service professional to check your indoor unit, outdoor unit, vents, and ductwork prior to the hottest months of the year.

Replace Your Filters

Replacing your AC filters is probably one of the most boring household expenses you have. However, pulling out the filter and checking it for buildup can help you avoid a lot of problems and maximize the flow of cool air in your house, saving you money on your electric bill.

Monitor Your Exterior Unit For Sinking

Many homeowners don’t realize that exterior AC units can sink or “settle” over the years. This is especially true in yards that tend to collect rainwater or areas with a lot of rain. There’s no real problem if your exterior AC unit has sunk a little. However, you want to make sure that all of the lines are level and that the unit itself is staying dry and isn’t settling in pools of collected water. If you notice severe sinking, you may want to call a professional AC repair company to evaluate the issue.

Check That The Unit Is Level

Just as the pad can sink, it can begin to lean to one side or the other. Use a professional level to make sure your unit isn’t leaning in order to make sure it is working at its prime.

Keep The Drain Tubed Unclogged

A clogged drain tube can make all of the AC services in your home feel sluggish and can also lead to a buildup of bacteria-filled water. You can unclog the drain tube by simply pouring one cup of bleach down the drain and then slowly pour about a gallon of warm water down it.

Try A Duct Or Vent Booster In Warmer Rooms

Many older or forced-air AC systems often leave the home with a room that always seems to be warmer than the rest of the house. Adding a vent booster or duct booster in warmer rooms helps to increase the flow of cool air. In-line duct boosters are excellent because they automatically turn on whenever your cooling system is running.

Close Vents In Low-Traffic Rooms

Many homes have rooms that are not used as much as others. You can maximize your air conditioning services by slightly closing the vents in rooms that aren’t being actively used. This is often a basement or a spare room.

Consider An Attic Fan

Ever wonder what people did before air conditioning? A whole-house fan, also called an attic fan due to its general location, cools the house by drawing the cooler air from outside in via open windows and screen doors. While these fans won’t replace your AC services, they can easily clear your home of warm, stagnant air in a matter of minutes.

Treat Yourself To A Quieter AC Unit

If you are dealing with noisy air conditioning services in your home, you may benefit from a compressor sound blanket. These simply go over the outdoor unit to quiet any noise. You can find information from the manufacturer of your unit or call a professional AC repair services company to learn more.

Keep Curtains and Blinds Closed

Many people want a lot of sunlight in the home for bright views. During summer months it is easy for sunlight to quickly warm a home. Keeping curtains and blinds closed when you are not home or not in a certain part of the house keeps the cool air in and warm air out.

Deep Clean Your Unit

Air conditioning units naturally pull in the air that may contain dust and debris. Gently scrubbing the unit with a soft-bristle brush and a gentle cleanser can get rid of a lot of this buildup.

Realign Bent Fins

The delicate “fins” that line your outdoor unit are responsible for pulling in air to be cooled. These can easily become bent, damaged or crushed together over time. Take a standard butter knife and insert it in between the damaged funs about ½” to gently realign the fins as close to their original shape as possible.

Invest In A Fin Comb

If your fins have a lot of damage, you may want to invest in a fin comb.

Check Insulation

Air conditioning can become stagnant if there is damaged insulation. Checking that the insulation can save money and make AC more efficient.

Double Check Your Outdoor Unit Is The Correct Size

Air conditioning units are specifically sized to be proportionate to the square footage they will be cooling. An AC unit that is too small will have to work overtime to keep up with the amount of space.

Attempt DIY Air Condition Repair When Possible

AC technicians can be very costly. If you or someone in your home is comfortable working on the unit, you can usually do basic air condition repair at home for just the cost of parts.

Check For Leaks

At least once a year you should inspect your entire home for leaks. These tend to be by the windows or doors. You do this by lighting incense and walking around your home’s exterior to see if the smoke is being sucked toward the outside. This likely means there is a leak.

Clean The Unit’s Evaporator Coil

There is an evaporator coil door inside the blower on the home’s interior unit. Use a damp rag to clean remove dust from the coil and then use a no-rinse coil cleaner to gently clean the coil.

Consider A Garage Unit

If you work frequently in your garage, consider investing in a garage unit that can run separately from your home’s unit.

Wrap Your Outdoor Unit After Summer

You can extend the lifespan of your home’s exterior AC unit by covering it with plywood or another approved type of wrap during colder months.

Dispose Of Old Units Properly

Finally, if you find yourself needing a new AC unit, make sure you speak to your city’s waste management authorities before you simply throw it in the trash.

Air Conditioner Tips in Peak Condition
Air Conditioner Tips in Peak Condition

A Detailed Guide for Keeping Your Air Conditioner in Peak Condition

The start of summer is just around the corner. In certain parts of the country, the temperatures are already rising. What all that means is that you need to ensure that your air conditioner is ready to take on another season of heavy work. You may very well need some air conditioning services rendered to see if your unit is up to the task, but before signing up for that, you can perform the maintenance procedures below and get it up to speed yourself.

Turn Off the Power Supply for Your Air Conditioning Unit

Whether you’re asking someone to conduct some AC repair or just taking on the challenge yourself, the first thing that must be done is to turn off the power supply. Things can get dangerous in a hurry if you neglect this important first step.

Err on the side of caution and turn everything off, including the switch at the shut-off box located close to the air conditioning unit itself as well as the power at the breaker.

Remember to shut off the power at:

  • The unit itself
  • The exterior shut-off box
  • The breaker

Take Out Any Foreign Materials Present in the Air Conditioner

If you’re air conditioner is located outside your home, chances are that it will catch at least some debris. Fallen leaves and twigs are among the materials most likely to fall into your air conditioning unit.

Grab a screwdriver and start to take off the fasteners so that you will be able to free the fan grill of the air conditioner. Proceed to remove any debris that may be stuck to that fan grill. You can just use your hand to do that or a more powerful cleaning tool.

You can also use the cleaning tool to remove foreign materials from the outer covers of the unit. A vacuum with a brush attachment works great for this particular job.

Removing the foreign materials involves:

  • Taking out the fan grill
  • Cleaning the fan grill with either your hand or a cleaning tool
  • Use the cleaning tool to clean the outside covers

Give the Air Conditioner’s Fins a Shower

The next part is where many people trip up and calling on an AC repair professional could be necessary because it’s so easy to mess up. The fins inside the air conditioning unit can accumulate dirt and debris, but they are also more prone to damage.

In order to clean them properly, you need to use a garden hose producing a gentle stream of water. Place the hose inside the unit and begin spraying the fins inside out to expel the dirt particles that have built up.

Avoid using stronger cleaners because those can easily cause permanent damage to the fins and to the air conditioning unit by extension.

To properly clean the fins:

  • Use a gentle stream of water from a hose
  • Clean from the inside out
  • Refrain from using any powerful cleaning tool

Realign the Fins of the Air Conditioner

After cleaning the fins of the air conditioning unit, you now need to get them lined up properly. Usually, a professional who specializes in rendering air conditioning services will use a specific tool for this job.

There’s no need to go out and get that fin-straightening tool however. A butter knife will work just as well for the job. Just like with the cleaning, remember to be gentle with the fins to prevent them from being damaged.

Reminders for realigning the fins:

  • A butter knife will work as well as a specialized tool
  • Exerting too much force is unnecessary and potentially damaging

Create a Good Environment around the Air Conditioner

Air conditioners work better when they are given plenty of space. To do this for your air conditioning unit, you can clear out the debris surrounding the condenser. Do some general cleaning around that spot and cut branches if needed.

In an effort to keep debris away from your air conditioner, you may think to keep it covered. Doing that will only make it an attractive rest spot for small animals though, so remember to remove the cover.

Items that need to be removed from the area surrounding the air conditioner include:

  • Leaves
  • Branches
  • Any other materials that could adversely affect airflow

Level the Air Conditioner Properly

Getting your air conditioner back on level is important because the compressor inside can suffer otherwise. This would seem like a job you leave up to an AC services provider, but you can handle this yourself.

You first have to get a level and then use it to check the alignment of your unit’s condenser. If the unit is level, then you can move forward to the next step. If it isn’t you will have to pick up some shims and use them to correct the issue.

Air conditioners not on the level may suffer from:

  • A broken condenser
  • Poor performance

Get the Evaporator Coil in Working Condition

Open up the inside of your air conditioner now and locate the evaporator. It should be found either within the inside blower or next to it.

Start brushing the coil gently to remove some of the dirt and follow that up by spraying it with some coil cleaner. AC services providers get their coil cleaner from home improvement stores and you should find one there too.

The cleaner should remove more dirt from the coil and transport the particles to the drain pan. Clean that pan next using bleach, soap, and hot water. Lastly, pour a solution made out of bleach and water into the drain. The solution should be made out of equal parts of bleach and water.

Items That Will Help Clean the Evaporator Coil:

  • Bleach
  • Brush
  • Coil cleaner
  • Soap
  • Water

Unclog the Evaporator Drain

If the bleach solution did not go quickly through the drain, that means you will have to clear out some clogs. You first have to find where the drain line leads by following it.

After finding the exit point for the drain line, you can place a vacuum inside of it. Take the filter out of the vacuum first. Create a seal around the vacuum and the drain line by using some tape or some cloth. Let the vacuum run for a couple of minutes.

Just remember:

  • Remove the filter from the vacuum
  • Form a tight seal around the vacuum and the drain line’s end
  • Give the vacuum a couple of minutes to clear out the clogs

Replace the Blower Filter on the Air Conditioner

Find out where the filter enclosure is on your unit. Grab a screwdriver and pry open the enclosure. Take out the old filter and then slide in the new one while remembering to line it up properly. Shut off the enclosure by placing the door back on.

Some notes about the replacement:

  • Remember to get a filter with a similar airflow rating to the one already in the unit
  • Specialty HEPA and purifying filters may not work with your AC unit
  • Check with the manufacturer to learn which filters are okay to use

Turn On Your Air Conditioning Unit

With all of the steps above completed, you can power up your air conditioner and see how it’s working. If it’s working great, then you have don’t have to worry about it again for a while. If it’s not producing the type of air you need, there’s likely something more serious affecting it.

You will have to bring an AC repair specialist in if:

  • There’s a leak in the air conditioning unit
  • Refrigerant levels are off
  • Ducts are not properly cleaned

As a homeowner, you’ve done all that you can, so don’t hesitate to bring in the pros if some problems regarding your air conditioner do persist. It’s better to have those problems nipped in the bud as early as possible instead of having them pop up during the exceptionally warm days of summer.

Air Condition DIY Filter Cleaning
Air Condition DIY Filter Cleaning

8 Simple DIY Ways To Save Money On Air Conditioning And Get Better Air Quality

The cost to run your HVAC unit can make up more than 50% of your home’s total energy bills, according to a recent nationwide report done by the Department of energy. Running the air conditioning unit is typically the biggest energy bill for the average homeowner. With the summer months upon us, it can be frustrating to hear the constant sound of the air conditioner running your home and just know that it’s costing you money.

These eight tips listed below are simple, free ways to help your home’s air conditioner run more efficiently. This will save you money and help keep your energy bills down during the summer months. Saving money on pricey electric bills can give you excess funds to spend on those fun summer activities that are much more enjoyable than sitting alone at home in the air conditioning!

Clean Debris and Overgrown Grass From Around the Outdoor Unit

The state of your outdoor HCAV unit can greatly affect the quality of the air conditioning services inside your home. If your air conditioner seems sluggish, you may want to do a deep clean of any debris from the outdoor unit before you call for professional AC repair. These outdoor units tend to be clogged by things like grass trimmings, fallen leaves, dust from the air, and general lawn-related debris. You will want to clean out your HVAC unit carefully with a damp rag and a small, soft brush.

Check Air Filters and Vacuum Indoor Vents

Make sure that all your indoor vents are completely unblocked in order to get the best AC service. Take a vacuum with a hose attachment and vacuum away any dirt, dust and debris. Take a slightly damp rag and clean the vent’s surface and around the vent’s slats. Try to utilize the rage to clean in as far as you can. If you want to do a really deep clean or thing you have a partially clogged vent, simply use a screwdriver to remove the vent hood and extend your arm inside the vent to clean it. You want to make sure your HVAC system is off when you do this for safety reasons. Make sure all vents are wide open in the rooms you wish to keep cool. Similarly, if you have rooms that are rarely used during the summer months, you can close the vents partway or all the way to save on air conditioning costs.

Adjust Your Thermostat Up or Down a Few Degrees at a Time

Many people come home after a long day and are tempted to crank up the air conditioning services in their home to cool down immediately. You can save a great deal of electricity and money on your bill by simply moving the thermostat up or down a few degrees at a time. Ideally, you should aim for about five degrees cooler or warmer depending on the outside temperature and how cool you like it when you sleep at night.

Keep Lamps and Electric Devices That Product Heat Away From Air Vents

Having a bright lamp or other high-energy electric devices that produce heat right by a vent can greatly disintegrate the level of cool AC service your unit can expend in a particular room. This could be a television or other electronic device. Simply move lights or other warm electronic to a different place in the room to allow your vent to produce the best-quality AC.

Cool the Air Naturally by Closing Curtains

Direct sunlight can be appealing for a cheery mood inside your home, yet it naturally increases the temperature inside your house. Leaving your blinds and curtains open while you are out for the day at work or running errands will only leave you coming home to a warm house, causing you to feel like you need to crank up the air conditioner. Close curtains and blinds to make the most of the cool air already inside the home during the hottest hours of the day. You’ll be surprised what a big difference this can make on naturally cooling your home.

Thoroughly Flush Your AC’s Drain Line

Your air conditioner is assigned a specific drain that is usually in the home’s basement somewhere around the same place the furnace is located. Flushing out this drain line can keep your HVAC unit from getting clogged and slowing down the flow of your air conditioning services. You can easily clean it out by simply pouring one cup of common household bleach down this drain and follow that by rinsing the drain line out with a full gallon of water. This should clean the line. However, you want to ensure that you have the correct drain line before you flush it out.

Keep Your Dryer and Oven Off During Prime Summer Hours

The summer brings exceptionally warm hours during the peak of the day. You can save on air condition costs and maximize the cool air by avoiding using these two appliances during those hot hours. Running the dryer pulls heated air inside your house, making it better to run it at night or in the morning before work. Your oven naturally heats the air from your kitchen into other rooms. Avoid using it unless it’s necessary. If you have to use either appliance, set a timer so you can be efficient about using them only the necessary amount of time. Summer is a great time to grill out!

Check That Your Home Is Properly Insulated

You can waste a great deal of energy and money if your house’s ductwork isn’t properly sealed. The ductwork that runs through spaces like the attic can often start to leak over time, essentially meaning you’re paying to blow cold air in places that go unused. You can DIY the ducts by running your hand over the ductwork to feel for leaks or checking them visually. These can be sealed with a duct-sealing tape that can be bought at any home store. You also should schedule a professional AC repair maintenance visit early in the summer to check for leaks.

Air Conditioning Services
Air Conditioning Services

Jupiter Air Conditioning Services

Jupiter Air Conditioning Services

Outstanding Reputation for Air Conditioning Services Including Replacement, Installation, Repairs and Maintenance in Jupiter Florida and Surrounding Areas.

One thing that makes Edwards Air stand out from the competition is that our technicians are not limited to certain air conditioner brands and models. Even if you have an older system, you can have peace of mind that you will receive repair and maintenance services at a fair price.

Our number one goal at Edwards Air is to provide every customer with exceptional service. To accomplish that, our professional technicians are trained, qualified, experienced, and friendly. We want all of our customers to know that they are important. We promise to go out of our way to meet, if not exceed, your expectations.

In addition to being qualified to work on every brand and model of air conditioning system, our expert technicians complete additional training that covers innovative technologies, as well as green techniques that promote a healthy planet.

Edwards Air Enterprise is a LOCAL AC company that has the Air Conditioning Service, Repair, Installation & Replacement tools and experience to evaluate and resolve your situation accurately and provide cost-effective solutions in air conditioning service. We can help you maintain your cooling and heating systems, prevent possible problems and promote maximum efficiency with Edwards Air’s comprehensive maintenance plans. Though swift and accurate HVAC repairs, we address complicated problems and safety concerns to restore your equipment to optimal condition.

Contact us today at http://EdwardsAirEnterprise.com or 561-747-5795

Edwards Air Conditioning providing services throughout South Florida specializing in these areas; Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, Juno Beach, North Palm Beach, Stuart, West Palm Beach, Lake Park, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach, Royal Palm Beach, and Palm City.

Air Conditioning Installation
Air Conditioning Installation

Better Air and Improved Health with Air Purifier Systems in Jupiter, FL

Better Air and Improved Health with Air Purifier Systems in Jupiter, FL

In Florida, there are a number of HVAC companies. One with a solid reputation for excellence is Edwards Air, family-owned and operated company. For the past 20-plus years, we have dedicated ourselves to making customers happy by providing quality air purifier systems. As experts in the field of HVAC, our trained technicians are qualified to repair, service, and install virtually any brand and model of air conditioner and heating system.

Our technicians also possess the necessary skills to clean ductwork, which eliminates the buildup of dirt and debris. Once the ducts have been cleaned, the air that passes from the air conditioning or heating system through the ductwork is clean, posing very little, if any, risk.

Contact us today at http://EdwardsAirEnterprise.com or 561-747-5795

Edwards Air Conditioning providing services throughout South Florida specializing in these areas; Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, Juno Beach, North Palm Beach, Stuart, West Palm Beach, Lake Park, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach, Royal Palm Beach, and Palm City.

Edwards Air Enterprise is a LOCAL AC company that has the Air Conditioning Service, Repair, Installation & Replacement tools and experience to evaluate and resolve your situation accurately and provide cost-effective solutions in air conditioning service. We can help you maintain your cooling and heating systems, prevent possible problems and promote maximum efficiency with Edwards Air’s comprehensive maintenance plans. Though swift and accurate HVAC repairs, we address complicated problems and safety concerns to restore your equipment to optimal condition.