When Should You Replace Your AC Unit?

June 4th, 2018 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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If your AC unit needs a repair and the estimate is for $300-$700 or more, you may be wondering if it is time to replace your system versus repair it. As air conditioning systems become older, repair services increase in frequency and often in costs. While many AC units can last 15 years or more, there comes a point when you should consider replacement as a viable option instead of putting more money into a unit that is reaching the end of its lifespan. Here are some ways to determine when you should replace your AC unit.

Is It Ten Years or Older?

New air conditioning units have better options in efficiency. If your unit is over ten years old, you may be better off upgrading to a new system that will save you money on energy costs. Depending on the efficiency of your current unit, you could save hundreds of dollars each year by upgrading sooner rather than later.

$5,000 Rule

One way that HVAC professionals recommend determining repair versus replacement is the $5,000 rule. If you need a repair, take the cost of your repair and multiple it by the age of your unit. If that is more than $5,000, it may be better to replace than repair and vice versa. If the repair will be $500 and your unit is 10+ years old, multiplying them would be $5,000+ and it is worthwhile to consider replacement.

You want to get the most use from your AC unit, but you also want a system that is reliable and efficient. Before you spend money on repairs on an old unit, take the time to consider whether it is time to replace – it may be the best solution for the long run.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
264 Buchanan Highway
Dallas, GA 30157
(770) 505-7426

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Do You Have a Reliable HVAC Service Company?

June 4th, 2018 Posted in Choosing an HVAC Contractor
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When you HVAC system breaks down, the last thing you want to do is spend time trying to find a reliable service company to fix your problem. If you do not have a HVAC service that is on speed dial, it is time to find one that you can trust. Don’t wait for a problem to arise – you will waste precious time trying to find a service or end up hiring the first one you call, which could be a mistake. Here are a few factors to consider when looking for a HVAC service company to handle your needed repairs and maintenance.

Experience and Training

You want an HVAC company that has a proven record of experience and quality in your community. Not only do you want a company that is run by experienced HVAC professionals, but make sure they provide the proper training for their employees. Plus, you always want to ensure they have the proper licensing and insurance for your city and state.

Services

HVAC problems come in all shapes and sizes. You want a service that can handle your heating, air conditioning and air quality concerns. Make sure they all a wide variety of HVAC services that cover all your needs, so you have one company you can count on for all your issues. 24-hour emergency service should be on the list for when you need a quick repair outside normal business hours.

Reputation

Last, but not least, you want to see what other customers have to say about a company’s service. Check reviews and ask for testimonials. This can give you a better idea on whether they stand behind their service.

Take the time to vet a HVAC service that will be able to come to the rescue when your AC quits, or you need annual service. When the time comes, you will be glad to have a reliable service you can call.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 505-7426

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Control Your Commercial HVAC Costs with Automation

June 4th, 2018 Posted in Commercial HVAC Service & Repair
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Are you still trying to manage your commercial building with manual or onsite HVAC controls? Building automation systems that manage your HVAC use can help you save significant amounts on your energy bills and improve the comfort for your employees or tenants. If you have not upgrade to an automated system for your HVAC, it is worth the investment.

There are many automation options for commercial HVAC automation, but one of the highest rated options is Distech Controls. This system can turn your traditional HVAC system and controls into an easily managed operation, with access from any Wi-Fi device. Some of the benefits include:

  • Access controls and information from anywhere on a smartphone or tablet
  • Quicker response to tenant or employee building complaints
  • Real-time access and servicing
  • Innovative options for automatic updating, keeping your system from becoming obsolete

This system can bring your operation to the next level in efficiency and performance. Once implemented, you can see energy savings of up to 30%, especially when you use the options available to manage your climate control costs. Over time, your Distech building automation system can pay for itself in energy savings and higher performance, with less time needed to manage controls onsite. This is perfect for those who need to manage a large facility or multiple facilities at the same time, keeping all the information and controls you need at your fingertips.

If you are ready to bring your commercial HVAC system up to par in efficiency, contact an experienced commercial HVAC service that offers innovative options like Distech Controls. Once you upgrade your system, you can begin realizing improve efficiency and reduced time spent managing your commercial buildings.

Posted on behalf of:
JS Thomas Service, Inc
4085 Nine McFarland Dr
Alpharetta, GA 30004
(770) 475-2600

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What Does SEER Rating Mean?

June 1st, 2018 Posted in HVAC Replacement
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Are you looking at new AC units and noticing SEER ratings listed? This is one of the factors that is often listed as a benefit on AC units, but if you do not know what it means, it doesn’t help you decide on which model is right for you. Here is some basic information on this measurement and what it means in terms of energy efficiency and cooling your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating

Although it is often referred to as a SEER rating, the acronym SEER already uses the word “rating” as it stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Although the term SEER rating is redundant, it is one of the factors what you want to look for when choosing a new AC unit for your home.

Most older AC units that are currently installed in homes have SEER ratings of less than 10. New models have at least 13-14, which is a big difference in energy savings. SEER ratings can go up to 21 or higher, with improved efficiency at each level. However, the higher the rating, the more expensive the AC unit is likely to be. While you want a new AC unit that will save you money on energy costs, you need to calculate whether it is worth the extra initial investment. In warmer regions it may be – but keep in mind that SEER ratings are the maximum a unit will get, not the minimum.

When it comes time to buy a new HVAC unit for your home, talk to an HVAC professional about the importance of SEER ratings. Having an energy analysis done in your home can give you a better idea of what level of SEER would be best for your use and help you get the right model for your needs.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
1925 Lena Carter Road
Buford, GA 30519
(770) 475-9528

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Risks of High Humidity in Your Home

June 1st, 2018 Posted in Dehumidifiers
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Humidity levels impact many aspects in your home, from comfort to cleaning. When humidity levels spike to levels above 60% on a consistent basis, you could be at risk for problems in your home. Here are some of the risks high humidity can pose to your home and health and what you can do to prevent these problems.

Mold Problems from Humidity

One of the biggest concerns with high humidity is mold growth in your home. This can include the pink molds that grow in your bathroom shower as well as dangerous black molds on windows, walls and closed spaces. Mold is a pain to clean and can pose health risks to your family, especially infants and those with respiratory issues. Reducing humidity can help control mold growth for a healthier home.

Material Damage

Humidity and mold can damage materials in your home. This can include anything made with paper products like books, photo albums and documents. It can also impact wood, which can be damaging to your furniture and home. Door and windows can stick, and wood drawers can swell or warp. Fabrics and upholstery can mildew and stain. Reducing humidity can protect the wood and paper in your home, as well as fabric or upholstery.

Odors

A musty home is usually caused by high humidity. If your home smells musty, it is a sign of too high of moisture and possible mold or mildew problems in the home. Clear out odor and the cause by thorough cleaning and reducing your humidity levels.

If humidity is a problem in your home, talk to your local HVAC service company about adding a whole house dehumidifier to your home. It is worth the investment to prevent the risks to your home and family from high moisture.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
3870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 340-129
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 475-9555

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How to Save Money on HVAC Service and Repairs

June 1st, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Heating and cooling your home is expensive enough without needing to spend hundreds of extra dollars through the year on service and repairs. You want to avoid unexpected costs that can send your household budget into turmoil. If you want to reduce the amount of money you spend on HVAC services, consider these tips to lower costs.

DIY Maintenance

While you may not be able to do all the maintenance for your HVAC system yourself, there are things that anyone can do. Keeping the vents clean and debris from around your outdoor unit can help improve efficiency and reduce wear on your unit. Check the manufacturer recommendations for maintenance and do as much as you can yourself, reducing the amount of maintenance you will need from a professional.

Flat Fees

When you have a problem with your HVAC system and need a diagnostic performed, look for companies with flat fees. This way you know upfront what it will cost for the service call without any surprises. You can find out what is wrong and get a quote. If the repair cost seems high, you can always call around to see if you can find a better price. But often the company you call will be willing to give you a fair price to get the job.

Keep Up with Service

While annual HVAC service does cost money, it can save you more in the long run. Do what maintenance you can yourself, but still schedule annual maintenance in the spring or fall when rates are the best for service by a professional. This can help reduce the needs for repairs, extend the life of your unit and keep it running efficiently.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
5950 Shiloh Road East
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 475-9555

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