Cleaning your AC Unit: What a Quality AC Repair Company Does

February 28th, 2017

iStock

Whether you own multiple commercial air conditioning units or you have a single HVAC unit for your home, you’ll need to have your system cleaned over time. While you can do your part and keep up with some of the cleaning on your own, make sure that you call in the pros to do a yearly service so that you know every nook and cranny got attention. Here are the areas that a quality AC repair company will clean so that your unit has longevity and stays durable throughout its lifespan.

Coils

Coils are an important part your heating and cooling system, and when you don’t have them cleaned, then you’ll find yourself calling for more AC repairs than you bargained for. Don’t skip those routine maintenance calls each year if you want to keep your coils clean and your unit functioning like new.

Registers

When you want your air conditioner working in an efficient manner and saving you money on your energy bill, make sure AC registers are professionally cleaned. When you have clogged and dirty registers, then ventilation and air flow won’t be as good and your unit will have to work much harder than it should.

Filters

Most homeowners know how important it is to change filters at least once a month. However, a quality AC repair company will offer guidance and will clean these when necessary. Commercial air conditioning systems will demand a little more attention because many have filters that are removed, cleaned, and then replaced versus the disposable options.

Air Handler

For your AC unit to properly distribute air, the air handler must be cleaned, and you want to make sure you have someone experienced handling the project. This will also help prevent AC repairs in the future and will make your home more comfortable.

Ducts

Your ducts will need to be cleaned because of the dirt and dust that can collect and cause clogs that will affect the way the air flows. If you have pets or a large number of foot traffic in your commercial property or home, then you may find that you need to have this job completed more often.

Blower Fans

The blower fans will need to be cleaned to help keep your AC unit working in prime condition, and a professional will show up with the best equipment and techniques to get the job done quickly and thoroughly. You’ll want to ensure that each aspect of your heating and air unit is cleaned with care and handled with integrity.

[cta_button url=”https://www.peaden.com/contact-info/” text=”Schedule Maintenance” phone=”(855) 557-7878″]

Everywhere in Between

The best AC repair companies will know to clean everything above that can collect the dirt, dust, and dander that can affect the working parts. However, as they complete the cleaning of your unit, they’ll be paying attention to the entire system and responding to areas that demand attention. If you have hard-to-reach places that need to be cleaned, be sure you call in the pros to tackle the job so that you know it was done correctly.

Continue Reading

How Preventing Heating Repair Will Lower Energy Bill Costs

January 28th, 2017

iStock

Saving money is on everyones’ mind these days, and it can be hard to find new ways to lower bills. However, when you want to prevent a heating repair, you’ll find that you’ll also be lowering your energy costs. By making a few simple changes to your routine, you can save hundreds of dollars, if not more, over the course of a year on your energy and heating repair bills. Here are a few tips to help you get moving in the right direction.

Change Filters Routinely

It can be easy to get off track as the cold weather moves in, but make sure you are cleaning and changing your filters just as much as you did in the summer to ensure that you save money and don’t cause unnecessary repairs. Not changing filters and keeping with simple maintenance like this is one of the primary reasons that a heater will quit working in prime condition, so keep it at the top of the list!

Seal All Air Leaks

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on new windows and doors to close up air leaks. You can invest in much more affordable options to help prevent heating repair such as installing new weather strips and finding sealants that will get the job done thoroughly. Also be sure that you’re walking the outside of your home to close up any holes and cracks in the foundation and siding. Make sure that your attic is properly insulated as well so that you aren’t losing any air there.

Get a New Thermostat

A new thermostat will give you more control of the temperature whether you are standing in the room, or you forgot to make adjustments before your vacation. You will be able to change setting from remote settings using your smartphone and you can get many more features depending on your goals. Having this kind of control will allow you to give your heating system a break when you aren’t home.

Have Fans Rotate Clockwise

Turn your ceiling fans on a clockwise rotation so that the warm air pushes down and your heater gets a break. This will keep it from working so hard and save you on future heating repairs. Plus, you’ll save money on your bill. Don’t forget that once you seal up your windows, you should open them and use the natural sunlight to warm your space. It’s free and your heater will appreciate the help!

Close Rooms You Don’t Use

If you have large storage areas or rooms that aren’t in use, close the vents and the doors so that you aren’t forcing your unit to heat the entire home. You’ll discover that you can save a pretty significant amount of money by doing this, and your heater will be able to get the space that you are using heated without having to work harder than it needs to. Take time to practice these tips and you’ll find your heater lasts longer and stays stronger over the years, while also saving you money!

Continue Reading

Heater Repair Money Saving Tips

January 15th, 2017

family-footer

No one likes to have a heater repair lingering on their list of things to do, but it’s inevitable when you own a home that your heating and cooling system will demand attention from time to time. When that happens, it’s imperative that you don’t put off the call if you want to get your space comfortable and functioning as it should. Here are a few money-saving tips to follow next time you need a heater repair.

Call for Yearly Inspections

Each year you should have a yearly inspection by a professional to clean coils and look at each area to make sure that there isn’t anything that could be an issue in the future. While you can still do your visual inspections and take care of changing filters on time, you’ll want to have someone with a skilled eye to really get in there. They have the industry knowledge to know what brand of heaters are more likely to demand certain repairs, and they’ll know what elements to pay close attention to.

Don’t Wait to Get a Heater Repair

If you hear strange noises coming from your heater or you start to see condensation build up where it has never been before, don’t ignore just because your heater is still working. You should never put off heater repairs if you want to save money because they are going to be more affordable the faster you catch them. Pay attention to your heater and don’t let it be an option to put it off another month.

Use a Quality Company

The company you use for heater repair is going to be essential to the longevity of your system, as well as how it runs. If you want your heater to continue to perform in prime condition, then find a company that is certified, affordable, and easy to work with. You don’t want to let just any stranger you met in the filter aisle at the hardware store to fix your heater because you never know how much they really know. Plus, if you require further heater repairs, you may not be able to find them even if it’s their mistakes that you need corrected. The best companies will be licensed and available for you.

Invest in a New Heater Earlier Rather Than Later

You can save some major dollars on heater repair when you invest in a new unit as the fixes become more frequent. The longer you wait, the more expensive the repairs will be and you could be putting that money towards the newer and more energy efficient unit that will end up saving you money.

Make Sure Everyone Is on the Same Page

When you’re trying to save money on your next heater repair, make sure that everyone who uses the unit is on the same page. You want to know that filters are being changed as they should and that everyone is following the correct temperature setting rules so that your unit isn’t working harder than it should.

Continue Reading

What to Expect When You Need a Heater Repair

December 19th, 2016

iStock

No matter what kind of system you use to warm your space, you can expect (as with any appliance or complex unit) that you’ll need a heater repair at some point. As the heater ages, it will demand some attention. There are signs that you can look for that will alert you that heater repair is necessary, such as making odd sounds, blowing cool air, an increase on your energy bill, and more. Once you take notice of these signs and call in the pros, here are a few things that you can expect when you go with a reliable heater repair company.

A Complete Inspection of the Heater

The different heating systems will require the technician to have the training to inspect furnaces that are gas and oil, split systems, heat pumps, forced air, and beyond. When you call for the heater repair, you’ll want to let them know what type of unit you have and what the issue is that you’ve noticed. They’ll do a full inspection from the heat exchanger to the unit’s safety controls.

A Reliable Diagnosis

Once the heater has been completely inspected, you’ll get a reliable diagnosis as to what the problem is and how the heater repair is going to take place. Knowing the steps that are going to be taken will give you the information to make a confident decision. Here, you’ll also learn more about the pricing and you can ask questions about the age of your unit and how you can expect your heater to perform as it ages. While each system will be unique because different households have different comfort level requirements, the experts will have a good idea of how your unit should be performing after the inspection and diagnosis.

A Thorough Heater Repair

After the diagnosis, it’s time to get a thorough heater repair so that you can get back to relaxing at home in a comfortable temperature of your choosing. You can either schedule this at your convenience, or in some cases it will be performed the same day as the diagnosis. If you need an emergency heater repair, the sense of urgency will be elevated and you’ll want to take care of the situation immediately. Heaters can be dangerous when they aren’t properly maintained because carbon monoxide can escape when there are cracks in the heater exchange and fires can occur when parts aren’t functioning they way they are meant to. Take care in getting heater repairs performed swiftly and with an experienced company.

A Reminder for Yearly Service

Once your heater repair is complete, you can expect to get a reminder for your yearly service to keep it working in the best condition possible. You should go ahead and mark this on your calendar so that you don’t skip a beat when it’s time to have your heater looked at. The more attention you pay to your heater, the quicker you’ll notice when it’s acting strange, and the faster you can get someone out there to repair it. That’s more money (and frustration) you’ll save in the long run.

Continue Reading

AC Repair Prevention Methods Beyond Maintaining Your Unit

December 10th, 2016

iStock

Most people know that to prevent an AC repair, you’ll need to have those yearly services from a professional to clean coils and perform other maintenance, as well as do your own part and change filters, clean debris, and pay attention to the daily sounds of your unit. However, there are a few other home improvements you can make to give your unit longevity so that it doesn’t have to work so hard when the weather is hot. Here are a few ways that you can prevent an AC repair beyond the routine maintenance that you already provide.

Check Your Windows for Drafts

If windows, doors, and other openings to your home have drafts or leaking air, then your air conditioning is going to be working extra to combat the temperatures. If you can’t or don’t want to invest in more energy efficient windows, then take the time to have the weak spots sealed so that air isn’t escaping. Not only will this prevent future AC repairs from happening prematurely, but it will lower your energy bill so you can enjoy the savings in more areas than one.

Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Ceiling fans are an excellent way to help keep a room cool and give your AC unit a break from time to time. When you want to prevent air conditioning repairs, you won’t want your unit to have to be on 24/7 blowing air. It’s important that it gets a chance to rest when the weather gets a little cooler, and you can enjoy a day with the ceiling fans on and the unit off. Be mindful that you have the fan spinning the correct way for optimal use in the summer. And in the winter, many fans will have an adjustment to spin the blades in the opposite direction so that hot air is pushed down instead of up.

Add Extra Insulation

Make sure that your attic and walls are properly insulated because air can escape and enter through the walls. This is important to preventing an AC repair because your unit will be able to fill the room with the desired temperature of air and it will not exit through the walls, making your unit stay on more often than it should have to. There are some very easy ways to insulate your attic and walls such as blown-in foam, and your AC repair company will be an excellent resource when you want to learn more about insulating your home.

Look Into an Upgrade

If you’ve been trying to prevent an AC repair only to discover that they are coming quicker and with a higher price tag, then the best prevention may be to invest a new unit. An upgrade will give you the latest technology and provide you with the most energy efficiency, and you won’t have to worry about an AC repair anytime soon. Air conditioning units have a certain lifespan, and even when you keep yours in pristine condition, there will be a time for an upgrade. The longer you put it off, the more AC repairs you’ll need, and a new unit will stop the cycle so that you can enjoy the comfort of your home.

Continue Reading

What Qualities Should Your AC Repair Company Have?

November 30th, 2016

iStock

Your air conditioning is an essential part of your home and a welcomed addition to your space because of the comfortable and cool temperatures it provides. So when you need an AC repair, you don’t want just anyone to make adjustments. An air conditioning unit is an investment, and in order to keep in running in prime condition, you’ll want to bring in a reliable AC repair company. In fact, you should have their number saved in your phone in case you have an emergency or demand a quick response to an issue. Here are a few qualities that your AC company should provide you to ensure prompt and efficient services.

Straightforward Pricing and Procedures

You don’t want to be left in the dark when it comes to your AC repair and how much it will cost and what you can expect. The best air conditioning companies will be up front about pricing and let you know exactly what they will be doing so that you know what areas of your property they’ll need access to. When performing home improvements, you’ll find that you have to let workers into your home and you expect them to treat it with respect. Keeping you informed and pricing and procedures is an excellent sign that they are a professional AC repair company that is there to be your cooling solution.

Prepared and On Time

The best AC repair companies will come on time and be ready to work when they arrive. They’ll have the proper equipment, as well as multiple spare parts so that they can correct most issues quickly and without wasting any time. It’s frustrating when you notice someone second guessing the diagnosis or not applying the best methods of repair, and you want to select a company that you’re confident with when it comes to AC repair. If they are late and unprepared, it might be a good idea to find someone that is more reliable.

Professionalism on All Levels

While you want your AC repair company to have the proper certifications and training, you also want them to be professionals and show up with a clean appearance and good attitude. You’ll also want them to properly represent their company so that you know exactly who you are dealing with. If you have two guys show up in dirty clothes and an old, beat up car with one tool belt between them, it can be unnerving to write the check to pay for the AC repair. Professional and reliable HVAC companies will have shirts and vehicles that help you identify them, as well as speak to you with a friendly attitude.

Easy to Reach and Communicate With

It’s never convenient to be in need of an AC repair, but the experts will be easy to reach and make the process go much smoother because they’ll be prompt and efficient. You’ll often notice in the first phone call you make just how easy the company is to speak with and how quickly they respond.

Continue Reading

5 Steps to Take Before You Get a Heater Repair

November 22nd, 2016

iStock

There are times when you absolutely know that you need a heater repair, and then there are other times when you are left scratching your head wondering if something else may be the culprit. If you have a relatively new unit or have never had a problem with your current system, and the issue is one that you aren’t familiar with, then there are a few steps you can take before calling in the experts. Here are five steps to take before you call for a heater repair.

#1: Change the Filters

Even if you change the filters on a regular basis and they aren’t due for to be replaced or cleaned for a couple of weeks, when your heating system isn’t working, then this should be the first place you look. Filters that are clogged and dirty can prevent air flow, leading you to believe that your unit needs a repair. When you have heavier foot traffic in your home than normal due to visitors, pet sitting for a friend, or you’ve been deep cleaning, you may discover that your filter will have to be changed more frequently because of the extra dirt and dander.

#2: Look to the Thermostat

While you may think that your heater needs to be repaired, the true issue could actually be someone living or working in your space is changing the thermostat on you. Before you assume the unit is broken, pay attention to the setting on the thermostat and see if it has been adjusted. Also, if you think the problem is your thermostat not registering correctly, you can get a stand alone one so that you have two ways to read the temp inside the home.

#3: Check the Electric

When you have blown fuse or a tripped breaker, most heaters will stop working, often being the reason for the sudden disruption. If turning on the breaker doesn’t correct the problem, be sure to bring in the professionals to handle the job because you don’t want to cause more damage or injure yourself when dealing with heater repairs or electrical problems.

#4: Find a Reliable Heater Repair Company

If you’ve tried everything listed above and your system is still not working, then it’s time to call in a reliable heating company to handle the job. Be sure that you’re selective about the company that you choose, because you want someone that is licensed and insured. You also want someone that shows up on time and with equipment necessary to get the job done.

#5: Gather Information

Once you’ve called in the pros, take the time to learn more about your particular heating system so you’ll have questions ready for when they arrive. The more you understand about the brand, age, and features of your unit, the more prepared you’ll be for times like these when you think you need a heater repair, but just aren’t sure.

Continue Reading

Four Ways To Prevent Toilet Repair

November 11th, 2016

iStock

Toilet repairs are necessary from time to time for both commercial and residential property owners, and it can wreak havoc on your day when you have to wait to get the situation resolved. Depending on how severe it is, it can cause you to close your workspace or rely on public restrooms until the situation is resolved. However, there are a few ways to prevent emergency toilet repairs, as well as the minor ones by staying proactive. Here we list just a few of the things you can do to prevent toilet repair.

#1: Only DIY When You Know What You’re Doing

Almost all homeowners, at one time or another, have tried to repair their own toilet and correct a plumbing issue. And this is okay because there are certain elements that most people can DIY when it comes to toilet repair. However, it’s important that you only repair a toilet when you know what you’re doing and that you understand the elements you’re working with. You don’t want to make the problem worse (and more expensive) by attempting to fix an issue that was a little over your head.

#2: Call in the Pros When You Notice a Leak

If you notice a continual leak, then don’t just put a towel under it and let it sit, or turn off the water unless you’re using the toilet. Call in the pros because a leak can be an affordable repair when it’s dealt with promptly. Plus, you’ll prevent an emergency from occurring when you ignore problems like this. In some cases, you may hear the leak and not see it because it is behind a wall or under your home. Look to your energy bill to see if you notice a rise in cost because an unnoticed leak can be the culprit.

#3: Pay Attention to Your Toilet

When you know how your toilet performs in prime condition, you’ll notice the signs that it’s starting to age and needs attention sooner than if you ignore this part of your home. Toilets age just like other aspects of your home and will need updates from time to time. If you see that elements are rusting, then often you can repair them yourself. However, when you start to notice that water flow is poor, or that your toilet doesn’t fill or flush all the way, you need to get an expert involved.

#4: Choose the Best Toilet Repair Company

There are some people that claim to be a handyman that can fix everything from your roof to your plumbing to your flooring, and then some. However, you want to be sure you go with a licensed, insured and certified technician from a reputable company when it comes to plumbing and toilet repair. Preventing future toilet repairs means having quality repairs in the past, and the plumber you choose will have an impact on how well your bathroom performs.

Continue Reading

Plumbing: 5 Times To Call In The Pros

November 1st, 2016

iStock

There are times when you can handle a home improvement project that includes plumbing, and then there are times when you need to call in the pros. It can be tough to decide where that line is because you want to save money, but you also want to ensure that the project is completed with quality materials and durable plumbing. And sometimes a professional plumber is the only one that can guarantee that. Here are five times when you need to call in an experienced plumber to get the job done right.

#1: Remodels or New Additions

If you’re remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, or are adding an addition to your home that will require running water, then you need to call in the experts. Plumbing will get a little more complicated and detailed during large home improvement projects, and having someone on your side that has the training and skills will help keep everything moving on schedule.

#2: Plumbing Repairs Beyond Your Scope of Knowledge

If you find yourself questioning each step you’re taking when repairing your plumbing, then get the pros involved. Plumbing repairs that are beyond your scope of knowledge should always be left to people that are certified in the industry. Each person will have their own depth of knowledge when it comes to plumbing, so be mindful that you don’t overestimate your abilities. Plus, calling in the experts will give you your weekend back and take a chore off of your honey-do list!

#3: Plumbing Projects Outside Your Home

When you have external plumbing issues that you need to get resolved, then it can take more than a quick online tutorial to get the job done right. If you have to dig up your yard or get to an external pipe in your crawl space, the professionals will need to be involved. They have the proper equipment and techniques to ensure that the job gets handled and repaired correctly, and they have a better understanding of how the different elements of plumbing work together.

#4: You Notice the Signs of a Leak

Leaks can be tricky, and even if you believe that you’ve fixed one or you think it’s natural condensation, you may notice that your water bill is still on the rise. Plumbing leaks can happen in areas that you don’t see or notice, but they can have a negative impact on water costs and water flow. Take the time to look under sinks and turn everything noisy off in your home so that you can listen to your plumbing to see if it sounds normal. Don’t wait on this one – dangerous mold can form as a result of an ignored leak.

#5: You Need Large Water Connections Shut Off

If you need a large water connection turned off for any reason, it needs to be done by a plumber that understands the pipes and how they should be handled. You don’t want to attempt this yourself if you don’t have an in-depth understanding of the lines that should be turned off because it could result in burst pipes – and that can get very expensive. Take the time to call in a plumbing expert and your next project will run much smoother.

Continue Reading

How To Save Money On Your Next AC Repair

October 21st, 2016

iStock

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.

Continue Reading