Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

Sometimes, it’s hard stay in control of finances because so many unexpected things can pop up from car troubles to air conditioning problems. While these times can be disheartening and make you go back to the drawing board of your budget, there are a few things that you can do. If you want to stay in control of AC repairs costs, here are a few tips that you can follow to help you get started.

Start Saving Now

Even saving forty dollars a month for a year will give you almost five hundred dollars for AC repairs and will cover most service calls, and even take the edge off of major repairs. Because you shouldn’t need AC repairs on a routine basis (unless you have a very old unit or one that wasn’t installed correctly), you should have time to really put back a bit of emergency money for things like air conditioning repair. As you watch your fund grow, you can start using some of the money for smaller things like air filters and annual service calls.

Keep Up with Maintenance

If you want to be in control of AC repair costs, then you should never put off routine maintenance like changing out filters and keeping the components of your unit clean. So many people don’t realize that this is one of the most inexpensive ways to ensure that your energy bill stays down and your unit needs fewer repairs.

Practice Energy Efficiency

If you want to stay in control of AC repair costs, then practice energy efficiency throughout your home from the windows to the attic. Your air conditioning unit will work more efficiently when air isn’t escaping and isn’t working continually to fight for the thermostat settings you’ve chosen. By taking a few simple steps, you can insulate your home and see some major savings on your energy bill.

Invest in a New Thermostat

Sometimes you have to spend a little money to save a lot of money, and new thermostats will give you more control when you are in the home, as well as when you are away. Because of new technology, you’ll find that you can control the temperatures of your space remotely to ensure that your unit isn’t working harder than it should when you aren’t there to enjoy the temperatures.

Find a Reputable Company You Can Stick With

You don’t just want to hire someone that you meet in the filter aisle of the grocery store to handle your AC repair needs. If you want to stay in control of costs, your should find a HVAC company that will be there every time you call them and will have an understanding of your unit. It’s frustrating when someone handles the install or AC repair only to find that they are unavailable when you call again. Find a reputable company that works in your location and is available with comprehensive services, and you’ll find that the process is seamless and convenient at every appointment.

Know When to Throw in the Towel and Upgrade

Sometimes the best thing you can do to control costs is knowing when your AC is beyond repair. Although the thought of a large up-front cost for a new AC system can be daunting, it will save you a lot of money, time and worry in the future. Many reputable companies will offer financing to help you spread the cost out over time.

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When you need an AC repair, it might seem like a minor thing. Maybe you hear a small clanking noise or the air flow is okay but just not as good as it once was, but you put it off because life gets busy and it’s not a huge inconvenience. However, when you let those little air conditioning repairs go, it can actually have a scary impact on your home. Here are a few reasons to keep up with those repairs so that you can rest easy at night knowing that your home and family are healthy and safe.

The Air Quality Will Go Down

With the right maintenance, your HVAC unit will keep your home filtered and improve the quality if air. But when you don’t change out filters on a regular basis and ignore small repairs that will improve the air flow, then you’ll find that the air quality will suffer.

Dust Mites Can Become a Problem

It’s important that you don’t neglect the maintenance and AC repairs because this will help keep dust levels down, and dust mites away. When they take over your home, they’ll snack on pet skin as well as people, and they’ll leave fecal matter in spaces that you use on a regular basis. To prevent these from becoming a problem, make sure that you keep up with repairs and maintenance for your heating and cooling system.

Your Allergies Will React

If you have bad allergies, then you’ll want to make sure that you take care of all AC repairs immediately. To keep the quality of air clean and indoor allergies away, then you need to change filters and make sure that your unit is working in proper condition. You’ll appreciate that you have a space to find relief from the sneezing and itchy eyes that happen to those who suffer from allergies.

You Give Rodents a Chance to Invade

If you discover that the air flow isn’t providing you with the comfort levels that you’re used to, then there is a chance that you need to check your ducts for invaders. When rodents find their way into the AC ductwork, you’ll want immediate repairs because you don’t want to leave this entryway open for more wildlife to get through. As soon as you detect the signs of mice or rats in your home, have someone check to see if they are entering through parts of the unit.

You End Up with Major AC Repairs

If you put off AC repairs because you are scared of the cost, then you should be aware that small repairs can be affordable and you can get a quote beforehand if you’re worried about breaking the budget. Small repairs will prevent major problems that come with bigger price tags, and you’ll want to be proactive so that you can save money in the long run. Don’t put off that AC repair any longer to ensure that you have a healthy and durable unit.

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Saving money is at the top of everyone’s list these days, and when it comes to AC repair, it can seem that we’re never prepared for the bill. However, there are ways that you can save those precious dollars on your next air conditioning repair – and trust that they aren’t as hard or time consuming as you think! Here are a few tips to help you prevent that next AC repair and save money when you do need one.

Get Everyone Involved

Whether it’s co-workers fighting over the set temperature in the office or it’s your family leaving doors open when the air conditioning is on in the summer, if you don’t have everyone on the same page when it comes to your AC unit, you’ll find that it’s the one suffering. Get everyone involved in how to treat the unit throughout the day and night, and signs to look for in case it needs a repair. Most people will be more than happy to oblige by the rules because it can be miserable when your unit goes out and you have to wait for an AC repair in the middle of the summer.

Be Diligent About Filters

Keeping your filters changed and cleaned on a regular basis has a lot to do with how many AC repairs you’ll need in the future. While most people stick to changing filters every thirty days, be mindful that each workspace and household is different in the amount of dirt and debris that they accumulate. If you have pets or multiple people living in the home, then there is a good chance you should be changing your filters more often. However, if it’s just you at home, you can change them less.

Consider Energy Efficient Solutions

Your windows and even the color of your home can cause your AC unit to work harder and need more repairs. Talk to the professionals about your best options for a few home improvements that will give your home more energy efficiency, and your unit will thank you because it won’t have to work as hard. You’ll not only add longevity to your AC unit and need fewer repairs, but you’ll save money on your energy bill.

Start Weatherizing Your Home

So you can’t (or don’t want to) afford new windows – that’s okay. What you can do is weatherize your space so that you keep it sealed. There are inexpensive ways to easily board up windows and attic spaces, and you should have your AC unit serviced once a year. During the yearly maintenance, you can ask the pros for weatherizing tips for your particular property.

Go with a Company You Trust

Going with a reliable and experienced company is essential for fewer AC repairs. When repairs are handled correctly the first time, then you’ll discover that your unit has those lasting qualities that keep us cool (and our wallets full). You’ll find that hiring an AC repair company will make life easier – and is much more affordable than you realize when you go with the pros.

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Most people don’t put a lot of thought into AC repair until they find themselves making a call because their home isn’t cooling the way it should. And even then, people may be reluctant to call because they hope that a problem will correct itself or they simply don’t know what the cost will be. Here are four things you need to know about AC repair so that you can put your mind at ease and make that call with confidence, or prevent the repairs all together.

#1: It Can Usually Be Prevented

AC repair can be prevented by changing your filter on a regular basis, as well as by scheduling professional maintenance on an annual basis. You should also take the time to check the outside of your unit for debris and plant life such as vines that could be invading your fan and other aspects. The more you understand the simple steps you can take for AC repair prevention, the less you’ll have to deal with an HVAC unit that isn’t producing cool air the way it should be.

#2: There Are Certain AC Repairs You Can DIY

It can be easy to look past your air conditioner as you go about your busy day. Often it can be an afterthought, so it’s important to know that when your unit isn’t working the way it should, there are a few things you can do. The first is to check your filter to ensure that it isn’t clogged because this will affect the air flow and how well your unit performs. You can also visually examine your ducts, clean the outside of your unit, and check to make sure the breaker isn’t tripped if you notice it isn’t working.

#3: It’s Not as Expensive as You Think

So many people don’t call in the pros for AC repair because they don’t know what the cost will be, but they fear it will be high and out of their budget. Don’t be afraid to let the air conditioning company know what your budget is for the repair and find out how they can help. When you’re proactive and pay attention to your AC unit, you’ll find that the repairs are affordable and prevent much larger (and much more expensive) issues from affecting your system.

#4: Not All AC Repair Companies Are the Same

When you hire an AC repair company, there are a few qualities that you should expect. It’s vital to your experience and the quality of work that the company is insured and has the proper certifications to install and repair your air conditioning system. You want a reputable company that is located in your area and is easy to reach. Speak with their customer service to find out more about how the can help with financing, if they show up on time, and get any of your questions answered. You can also look to reviews to see what others have said about their experience.

#5: Quality AC Brands Are Important

When you get an AC repair or new installation, you’ll want to speak with the experts about the different brands and components available so that you get a lasting outcome. They’ll guide you through the unique features and qualities of the brands so that you can find the one that meets your needs, as well as financial parameters.

#6: The Process Is Quick

If you don’t think you have time to get that AC repair, think again! The best companies will be ready to schedule an appointment at your convenience and will show up on time to get the job done. While each project will differ from the next, the technician will be promptly start the process and get it done correctly the first time so that you don’t miss out on your day playing the waiting game.

#7: You Can’t Predict When You’ll Need It

While you would like to think that you will easily be alerted when an issue is going to arise with your air conditioning, this just isn’t the case. Taking care of your AC unit and being proactive when you need a repair is going to save the most money and time. However, air conditioning units age, and over time, will demand certain repairs be made and you simply can’t predict when that is going to happen. The best way to combat this is to know the AC repair company ahead of time so that you have quick contact to call when a situation arises.

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If you’ve been hanging on to your old AC unit, you may start to wonder when it’s time to pull the plug, or if you still have a few good years left. It’s a big investment and one that should be thought about as your cooling system goes through repairs and annual maintenance, and you should involve a professional to help you make your decision. However, there are a few signs that will alert you that it may be time for more than just an AC repair.

Your Energy Bill Is Getting Higher

Pay attention to your energy bill throughout the lifespan of your AC unit so that you can catch when those prices start to rise. When you notice that they are getting higher, and not because of extreme temperatures, then you should call in an AC repair company to perform an inspection. In some cases, your unit will simply need a little routine maintenance and a more frequent filter changes (especially if you have pets). However, in other instances, all of the maintenance won’t help your energy bill go down and it will be time to get a brand new AC unit installed.

AC Repairs Are Turning into Major Fixes

You’ll need to have minor AC repairs from time to time, and it’s important to be proactive when getting these issues fixed because you don’t want to them to turn into major problems. But when you start to notice that all of the problems your air conditioning system is going through are major and the costs are piling on, it could actually save you money to get a new unit installed. Not only will you save in future AC repair costs, but your energy bill will go down.

Your AC Unit Is Over Ten Years Old

HVAC units can work in prime condition for ten to fifteen years. However, once they get over ten years old you’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure that you aren’t losing money on repairs. Plus, when you invest in a new AC unit, you’ll get to enjoy the latest advancements that have occurred since your last installation. New thermostats have so many convenient features, and you can even control the temperature inside your home remotely from a smartphone. It’s exciting to get a new HVAC unit, so take the time to learn about the latest features that will make your life much easier.

The Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Your Space Like It Used To

If your AC unit isn’t cooling your space like it once did, start by calling in a professional AC repair company to assess the situation. In some cases, the fix will be easy and you won’t have to worry about getting a new unit installed just yet. While in other instances, you’ll discover that even with a few repairs and maintenance techniques, you’re still not reaching the desired temperatures. Involve the AC repair experts to find out if it’s time for a new unit, or if there is another solution.

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For most homeowners, calling an AC service technician can literally cause their hearts to race—not so much from what they will learn about the problem, but mostly because of what fixing the problem will cost. There is often a way to avoid that fear and that pain in the wallet. You can save some serious money by using the AC service of an air conditioning professional. It’s a good idea to schedule a yearly inspection on your air conditioning system and make sure the appointment takes place well before the temperatures begin to heat up.

A professional AC service technician will run a series of tests to determine the state of your air conditioning system. Diagnostics will be run on the motor’s voltage and amp draw, along with checking the level of the refrigerant charge. The technician will also take care of maintenance tasks during the same appointment. He or she will clean the motor’s blower, as well as the motor itself. After checking the evaporator coil for cracks, the tech will clean the coil as well.

Other maintenance tasks that will be completed in an AC service call include fixing loose wires or corroded electrical connections. If you have debris or particulate matter in your drain system, this is the time of year to do a thorough cleaning on the drainpipes, ensuring good water drainage when the heat hits. Ensuring that the thermostat is operating properly, checking the belts, and replacing the air filters are other maintenance jobs that are commonly performed on a regular basis. Consistent AC service maintenance can go a long way toward increasing the life spam of your air conditioning system and its components. So, in addition to being more cost efficient, a healthy air conditioning system is much more energy efficient as well.

Service That Saves Your System

Problems can still occur, even with the best and most painstaking maintenance. Just like with cars, as air conditioners age, things wear out. It’s one of those inevitable truths of life. The older an air conditioner is, the more likely it is that it will experience problems. Here are two of the most common issues that arise that will require you to call an AC service technician immediately—especially if it’s hot outside!

The Unit Doesn’t Run

You turn on the machine and…nothing. The unit has not started. There are several reasons this could be happening, but it’s always smart to check the most obvious reason first, right?

In this case, that means it’s time to make sure the machine is plugged in. If it’s plugged in, make sure the line wasn’t tripped and the fuse isn’t blown. If none of those simple fixes work, reset the thermostat to a setting 5 degrees cooler than normal. If that doesn’t work, pick up the phone and call Peaden.

Warm Air Conditioning

Sometimes the air conditioner will seem to run well but there’s no cool air emerging—only warm air.  When this happens, check the thermostat first.  Then check the condenser. Make sure it is clean and not blocked by debris.

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Nothing beats the cool air of an air conditioning unit. Often, the only time you notice when AC repair is needed is when the system stops working completely. Then, you’re at the mercy of seasonal high temperatures and sometimes unbearable humidity.

Just like any mechanical or electrical system, your AC unit won’t go on forever, and sometimes a part just comes to the end of its natural life. Alternatively, if you neglect your annual servicing, then parts won’t last as long nor will your air conditioning unit work as efficiently.

Your air conditioning unit may not have given up completely, it may not be working well or not cooling properly. Either way you’re going to need an AC professional when things go wrong.

Do You Need an AC Repair Professional?

When it comes to AC repair, there are a number of indicators things have gone wrong or what may be the cause, and if there is anything you can do before you call out the professionals.

1. Your air conditioner isn’t working. If your air conditioning unit has given up completely, check the thermostat and make sure your fuses haven’t blown or your breaker hasn’t tripped.

2. No cool air is coming from the vents. Again, check your thermostat. If the temperature is equal to or above the temperature of the room, then your unit is obviously not going to have the effect of cooling the air.

3. Your air conditioner is making an unusual noise. It is possible a part needs replacing, and there is little you can do if you aren’t qualified. Make the call to an AC repair professional.

4. Your unit is turning on and off on a regular basis. It’s part of the function of air conditioning that it turns off when the air cools to the correct temperature and turns back on again when the temperature rises. If it’s doing so more than it should, then you need to get it checked, as it could be putting stress on parts, which could cause it to fail to work completely.

5. Water is dripping or leaking from your unit. Condensation is normal. But too much could be an indication of a need for repair. This is especially important as AC units have electrical parts which must be protected from water damage. Don’t ignore unusual levels of moisture coming from your air conditioner and act quickly to get it looked at professionally.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Things may come to your attention gradually, or they may get worse over time. Don’t ignore the signs an AC repair may be necessary, as postponing a repair means further damage can be caused to your unit. Ignoring problems may be costly in the long run, or uncomfortable as your AC unit will likely become less effective over time and eventually, fail.

Acting quickly is important for safety reasons as well as financial. Consider the damage water could do to the electrical components of the unit for example. The cost of an AC repair when the problems arise will be less expensive in the long run.

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The cost of cooling the air in your home is significant. In some states, it is an essential piece of equipment in the home. It would be impossible to live comfortably in some seasons without air conditioning. Though the cost of servicing your air conditioning unit is an added expense to running the system, it is an essential one. Ignoring the need for AC service can prove expensive, and your unit may become inefficient over time, is more likely to breakdown, or parts will need replacing more regularly than they should. Regular AC service could save you money in the long term.

Can I Do My AC Service Myself?

It is recommended that your service be carried out annually by a qualified AC professional. Annual servicing can keep your AC unit running efficiently and prolong its life.

It is never a good idea to get into the mechanics or the electrical components yourself. However, just like maintaining a car, there are some things you can do periodically to make sure your unit is running efficiently:

• Replace and clean air filters regularly. Buy good quality filters to make sure they do the job well. A clogged filter makes your unit more expensive to run.
• Clean debris from the fan, compressor and condenser if you have a split system.
• Keep bushes away from the outside unit of your air conditioner. Cut them back so they don’t clog up the fan.
• Prevent your unit’s drain channels from clogging by passing a wire through them.
• If you have a window air conditioner, make sure the window seals are intact so cool air isn’t escaping through them.
• Clean the outside condensing unit with a hose and soapy water to reduce corrosion.
• Flush the condensate drain line with a bleach and water mix to prevent algae growth.

Be careful! If you aren’t confident in what you are doing, you could do more harm than good.

What Does a Service Entail?

The value in annual professional AC service is in the problems it prevents. A professional can recognize parts which are wearing out and need replacing and identify problems that can cause costly damage.

Our AC technicians will do a number of tests to make the parts are working properly, such as clean the condensing unit coils, check the compressor, oil fan motors and make any necessary adjustments to the belts, check operating pressures and temperatures so make sure they meet the manufacturer’s specifications, and check your filter and coolant levels. They will also clean your unit and do everything possible to keep your AC unit running for the future.

A Service Saves You Money

The cost of an AC service can seem like an extra expense you can do without, especially if there is nothing apparently wrong with it. But a professional service will help keep your air conditioning system efficient. It will likely last longer and is much less likely to suffer a major breakdown (though, as with a car, regular servicing can’t prevent some things from going wrong). Increased efficiency means more money in your pocket and less money disappearing into thin air.

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You cannot avoid occasional repairs to your air conditioning unit. It’s a fact of life that electrical and mechanical equipment will occasionally fail. But you can save on overall costs of running your unit by taking regular steps to improve your energy efficiency.

An air conditioning unit may be a necessity for you. But that doesn’t make the cost of running, servicing and repairing it any easier to bear. You can help prevent the need for an air conditioning repair through annual servicing, and keep running costs down through energy efficient behaviors.

Keeping Running Costs Low

1. Install and set a programmable thermostat that can help save on heating and cooling costs.
2. Ceiling fans help increase the comfort temperature of your room by continuously circulating the air. You can comfortably bear a high room temperature if a ceiling fan is helping the flow of air around the room.
3. Make sure your home is insulated well, as this prevents cool air from escaping into the atmosphere and warmer air, from outside, getting in. Check your attic insulation, and seal any cracks and openings. Insulate and seal ducts, too.
4. Don’t cool your home with air cooled by your air conditioning and then spend all afternoon cooking with your oven on. Consider using a barbecue or a microwave to cook on a hot day.
5. You can purchase energy-efficient window coverings that let in natural light but prevent solar heat from penetrating your windows and warming up your home.
6. Use a bathroom fan when taking a shower or having a bath to help remove heat and humidity from inside your home.

You Can’t Always Prevent Air Conditioning Repair

Older AC units are less energy efficient than newer models. Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, and with regular servicing your unit may have come to the end of its life. Keep in mind: if your air conditioning repair bill is rising and if you need it repaired regularly, if your energy bills are still rising, or if it is not as cool as it should be, then it may be time to buy a new unit.

Always Use Your Air Conditioning Properly

Many people simply don’t use their AC properly, or inefficiently. Often it is behavior which makes running an AC system expensive. Common sense practices and regular servicing will help keep your air conditioning running efficiently and well, and could extend the life of the system, saving you expensive repairs.

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When looking for the right AC repair service, you undoubtedly want to select the best company that will properly service your air conditioner and give you excellent customer service. The right air conditioning company can ensure your AC system is running smoothly all year round. Here are a few important things to look for when choosing an AC repair company .

Availability

When choosing a company for any type of air conditioning repair, it is important to consider their availability. The right company is designed to work around their customers’ schedules, ensuring efficient and timely service, as well as being ready for any possible emergencies.

Certification

Making sure the company’s technicians are EPA & HVAC certified increases the likelihood of the following:

1. Your air conditioning system is up to date.
2. The AC repair will be done correctly.
3. The AC system will release any refrigerants the correct and environmentally-friendly way.
4. The air conditioning system will run at optimal levels all year round.
5. You get a technician with the right skills and the right experience to diagnose and correct any problems that may need AC repair.

Extended Warranties

A company confident in their abilities will generally offer extended warranties. When a company offers warranties on labor and parts, it demonstrates its confidence in the technicians’ ability to get the work done correctly. Companies that don’t offer any extended warranties may be less confident in their work, which can possibly result in the AC repair being done incorrectly.

Flexibility & Communication

A good company is always flexible with their hours and will be able to explain any details to you that you don’t fully understand. It is always best to ask for estimates, quotes, and work orders if the company does not offer them already. You want to be aware of the work that’s being done and why so that there are no surprises when the final bill is sent.

Patience

An excellent air conditioning company will allow you to take your time when making a decision. Particularly if you’re purchasing a new unit or deciding between a replacement and repair, you may need time to go over your finances and consider your options before making a final decision. Some companies want to pressure you into making quick decisions which might not be always the best choice for you. Choosing a company that allows you to think it through is always recommended.

Reputation

Look for an AC repair company that has a good reputation. So much business comes from referrals, and there’s a big reason behind that. If you can’t get a direct referral for a great AC repair company in your area, check online and look for customer testimonials or reviews. It is essential that the company you choose has established a reputation in the local community for quality service and excellent AC repair work.

Licenses

Make sure that your air conditioning repair company holds a state licenses. Most states require that air conditioning contractors obtain licensing in order to protect consumers. All air conditioning contractors are required to display their licenses information on their website, advertisements, and trucks. If you are in doubt, you can always ask for the contractor’s license number. Another way to verify licensure is to call the state office where the contractor is doing business.

These are simple guidelines to follow. By choosing the best AC repair company, you’ll get the best in quality service in maintaining your air conditioning system.

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