How Often Should You Change HVAC Filters?

July 30th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Accessories
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One of the most important DIY maintenance you can do for your HVAC system is ensure the air filter is kept clean. A dirty or clogged air filter can put extra stress on your HVAC system, causing it to work harder and be more likely to have system issues. Plus, air filters help improve the quality of the air in your home for the health of your family. So, how often should you change your HVAC air filters?

First, there is not a set rule on changing your HVAC air filter as each home and filter is different. An air filter manufacturer may say to change the filter every two months, which is a good rule of thumb, but not always accurate for all filters. Most 1-3-inch filters are suggested to change in two month intervals, but you should check the manufacturer recommendations for your filter.

Secondly, consider the environment. If you use your HVAC every day and have kids, pets and a full house, your air filter is working overtime. It may need to be changed more often than recommended. On the other hand, if you only have 1 person living in a big home and only use the HVAC system when you are home, the filter may not need to be changed for 3-4 months. The best advice? Check it regularly – if it looks dirty before it is scheduled to be replaced, switch it for a new one.

Changing the air filter is just part of maintaining your HVAC system. You should also schedule regular tune-ups and service 1-2 a year. Your HVAC service tech will also check your filter and change it out if needed.

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

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Does Your HVAC Need a Tune-Up?

July 30th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Like any machinery, your HVAC system has many moving parts that need occasional lubrication, cleaning and even replacement. When regular maintenance or service is not performed, eventually the system will come to a halt. With HVAC systems, Murphy’s Law says it will stop on the hottest or coldest day of the year, when you need it the most. So how you know if your HVAC system needs a tune-up?

For most HVAC systems, a tune-up consists of a full inspection of the system. This includes making sure everything is working correctly, looking for visible issue and listen for any odd sounds. The safety of the unit is also checked, including wiring and plugs. The system is usually lubricated where needed and cleaned. Cleaning includes the condenser coils, vents and filters. Coolant levels are checked, filled if needed, and a check for leaks is performed. The thermostat is checked and all controls.

For most systems, an annual tune-up is sufficient to keep on top of needed maintenance. A good time to schedule your tune-ups is either in the spring or fall, between the two cooler and hotter times of year. With regular tune-ups, many issues can be prevented that may cause a breakdown. Repairs can be made proactively, saving you the hassle of being without heat or air when you really need it.

Make sure you are scheduling your regular tune-ups before the busiest times of the year. If it has been over a year since your last HVAC tune-up, call to schedule yours right away. Maintenance can help improve efficiency and prevent system failures down the road, also extending the life of your unit.

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

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3 Spring Checklist Tips for your HVAC

July 16th, 2018 Posted in Commercial HVAC Service & Repair
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Summer can take its toll on both your HVAC and your business’ energy bills. Commercial HVAC systems are put under heavy strain when the temperatures rise, especially in hot climates. Spring is the best time to perform maintenance on your HVAC system to get it ready for the summer ahead. This can ensure your system will work efficiently for lowered energy costs and can reduce the chance of breakdowns. Here are three spring checklist tips to keep in mind for your commercial HVAC:

  1. Change filters. Keeping your HVAC filters up-to-date can improve air quality and efficiency for your system. Your filters are changed during routine maintenance and tune-ups, but you should check them between service and change them if they look dirty.
  2. Clean indoor components. Keep indoor air vents clean, along with coils, control panels and blower fans. Make sure there are no blockages to prevent air flow.
  3. Inspect outdoor unit. Inspect the outdoor cabinet that contains your condenser – make sure no debris is blocking any air vents or stuck in the coils. Wipe down the cabinet and coils to keep it clean.

Keeping your HVAC maintained can reduce your repair costs by up to 20% and improve efficiency. Spring is the perfect time to get your system tuned up and have routine maintenance performed. You can reduce your energy bills by at least 25% with regular maintenance and cut down the amount of breakdowns and expensive downtime.

Calling your local commercial HVAC service team to schedule your spring tune-up should be moved to the top of your checklist. Improve your energy efficiency and save money on your cooling system this summer by having a professional perform the needed maintenance on your system.

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

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Spring Cleaning Basics for your HVAC

July 16th, 2018 Posted in Air Duct Cleaning
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Spring is time for cleaning around your home. You pull down the drapes, air out the closets and give your home a good cleaning to put winter in the rearview mirror. Another area to clean is your HVAC system. You want to ensure that your unit is cleaned and ready to tackle the hot months ahead after a long winter. Here are some spring cleaning basics for your HVAC system:

  • First, turn off your unit to protect yourself from shock. To be safe, turning your unit off at the breaker and the unit is best.
  • Start at your outside unit. Clean the exterior cages and around the unit to remove debris that could block the air flow. You can also clean the fins using water to remove dirt and improve air flow. Don’t use a pressure washer – it can damage the fins.
  • Inside, you want to clean the air vents to ensure there is no blockages. If you have duct work, spring is a good time to schedule a duct cleaning from your local HVAC service company. Filters need to be changed – these improve the air quality in your home and can affect the efficiency of your unit.
  • The indoor unit should have the evaporator coils cleaned and ensure that the evaporator drain is unclogged. There is coil cleaner you can buy to remove dirt from the coils – however, if you schedule a spring service for your home heating and cooling system, your service technician will clean the coils and other areas of your HVAC unit.

You should keep the areas around your outdoor unit clean and keep an eye on your air filters throughout the year. If you have an annual tune-up, the interior of your unit will be cleaned and maintained for the best efficiency.

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

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Keeping an Even Temperature in Your Home

July 16th, 2018 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Do you find that certain areas of your home are either colder or warmer than others? It could be a problem with your cooling or heating system. However, often it is a simple issue that you can fix or check on your own. Here are a few to things to check before you consider calling in a professional:

  • Check your air filter. Sometimes something as simple as a clogged air filter can cause inconsistencies in temperature. Check your air filter and change it if it looks dirty.
  • Inspect your air vents. Turn on your AC or heat and check the air coming from your vents or registers. Make sure all are open and allowing air through. If a vent is open but no air is coming out, you may have a blockage in an air duct.

If you check the vents and filters but still can’t resolve the uneven temperatures in your home, it may be time to contact your local HVAC service. You may have issues like blocked or leaking ductwork that is affecting the air flow. This is a common issue that can increase your energy bills and cause poor temperature control.

Has your home always been difficult to keep at an even temperature? If this isn’t a new problem, it could be the design of your home or the location of your thermostat. Your HVAC professional can evaluate your system and offer solutions. Adding a zoning system, a ductless mini split or just moving the thermostat could fix your issue. The professionals will get to the heart of the issue and find a solution for improved comfort and efficiency in your home.

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

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5 Ways to Lower your AC Costs This Summer

July 16th, 2018 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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You want to stay cool and comfortable during the summer – but you also don’t want to pay high energy bills. While air conditioning does increase your energy costs, there are many ways to reduce the financial pain of staying cool during the summer. Here are five tips you can do now to lower your AC costs this summer.

  1. Seal doors and windows. Make sure the weather stripping around doors and windows is not cracked or worn. Sealing around these entrances can help keep cool air in and hot air out.
  2. Invest in drapes/shades for windows and glass doors. Give your AC unit a helping hand by reducing the sunlight that comes in the home on hot days. Invest in drapes, shades or blinds for windows and glass doors to keep sunlight out.
  3. Run large appliances during cooler hours. Wash dishes and clothes during the morning or evening hours when it is cooler outside. This reduces heat from these large appliances during the peak temperature times during the day.
  4. Use a programmable thermostat. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, get one and use it. This allows you to set the temperature on your AC to reduce use during times when you are not home or asleep.
  5. Get a spring tune-up. Did you know dirty coils and filters can cost you up to an extra $1,000 per season in AC costs? Get a spring tune-up for your unit to ensure it is ready for summer.
  6. System Efficiency Analysis – Have a system efficiency analysis performed by a qualified HVAC contractor.

Now is the time to start preparing your home to keep AC costs low this summer. With a little prep and maintenance, you can save hundreds of dollars and still stay cool during the dog days of summer.

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

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