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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Did You Have Your Air Conditioning System Serviced this Year?

July 25th, 2015 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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It happens every summer. Many people put off having their air conditioning serviced in the springtime, thinking they will have time before the hot weather hits. However, with the crazy weather that has happened over the last few years, procrastination is not a good idea. If you are one of the many homeowners that did not get your air conditioning serviced in the spring, don’t wait another moment. Here are a few good reasons to schedule your annual service today: 

  • Energy bills. Air conditioning costs plenty in energy bills so why make it worse with a poorly maintained system? Regular maintenance helps your air conditioning system run efficiently, saving you money off cooling costs over the summer.
  • Reduce replacement costs. A well-maintained A/C unit will last longer and need to be replaced less often, saving you money in the long run. An annual service fee is nominal compared to spending thousands of dollars on a new system.
  • Murphy’s Law. If you don’t have your air conditioning unit serviced, you know that Murphy’s Law means that it will breakdown. Not only will you be without A/C, it will most likely happen on the hottest day or week of the year. You’ll have to wait your turn with the hundreds of other people in your area waiting to get their unit repaired, suffering in the heat while you do so. 

Don’t be another victim to procrastination when it comes to your air conditioning system. Call your local HVAC service company today to schedule your annual maintenance before the dog days of summer arrive. You’ll be glad you did!

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Alpharetta, GA
(770) 475-9555

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Common Signs of A/C Problems

May 5th, 2015 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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With the hot days of summer just around the bend, now is the time to take stock of your air conditioning system. The last thing you want is for problems to arise just when the temperatures start edging up toward the 100 degree mark or beyond. Although an A/C unit can breakdown without warning, there are usually a few signs that it needs service before it stops working altogether. Here are a few common signs of A/C problems:

  • Cool air, yet not cold. Turn on your A/C and test the temperature of the air when turned on the highest cooling setting. Does the air quickly become cold, or is it only cool? If it is not getting cold in a matter of minutes, it is a sign that there is a problem. It may be something as simple as a clogged filter, but you want it resolved before the heat hits.
  • Drips or leaks. Run you A/C system for a few hours and look for any drips or leaks. This is one of the most common issues, usually indicating a low pressure system. If you notice any leaks around fittings or find a puddle on the floor, call in a HVAC specialist.
  • Strange sounds. Listen to your unit when it is running. Is it louder than usual or have any strange sounds that catch your attention? If the compressor or other components are wearing out, they often will begin making unusual noises that can alert you of impending repairs.

The best way to be ready for summer is to have a professional maintenance service performed on your air conditioner. A technician can check all the components and perform any maintenance that is needed, ensuring your system is ready to keep you cool all summer long.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Alpharetta, GA
(770) 475-9555

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Is Your HVAC System Trying To Tell You It Needs Maintenance?

July 10th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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There are certain sounds that your HVAC unit can make to alert you of impending problems. If you ignore these noises, you may end up coming home to an uncomfortably hot or cold home in the very near future. Beyond the normal sounds of your unit doing its job, these clicks, buzzes and hums may be telling you it is time to call in a professional for needed HVAC service or repair. Here are some common noises that may be signs of problems with your HVAC system: 

–        Buzzing electrical panels. If you hear a soft buzzing or crackling coming from any of the electrical panels in your unit, call a professional right away. There may be a problem that could short out the unit or worse, start a fire in your home.

–        Gurgling. The sound of gurgling or bubbling liquid could mean you have a coolant leak. If you are losing coolant, eventually your unit will stop providing chilled air, so call your local HVAC service professional.

–        Sounds in the duct work. It is normal for the duct work to make some sounds when it expands and contracts. However, scratching or other animal noises could mean you have an unwanted pest in your duct work. Squealing, roaring or mechanical squeaking echoing through the ducts may be the air handler fan having problems.

–        Clicking. If your A/C relays are making a clicking noise, it could be a sign of a problem with your thermostat. 

Do not wait for your HVAC system to stop working altogether during the hottest (or coolest) time of year. At the first sound or sign of a problem, call in a professional to inspect your home heating and cooling system and get the issue resolved before it becomes a serious problem.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Give Your Air Conditioning A Helping Hand

July 10th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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Although most newer air conditioning units are designed to operate efficiently, there are ways that you can get the most from your unit during the hot summer months. Using little tricks to give your A/C a helping hand can allow it to run more efficiently, using less energy while still keeping your home cool and comfortable. Here are a few ways to ensure your HVAC system does not need to work any harder than it has to during the hottest days of summer. 

–        Keep vents clear. Make sure that all your return air vents and supply registers are kept unblocked, allowing for easy air flow. Do not put furniture or drapes in front of these air vents to ensure there is nothing impeding air flow.

–        Manage your temperatures. Regardless of the heat outside, keep your A/C at least 78 degrees during times when you are home, higher when you are out of the house. Every degree can make a considerable difference in your utility bill. Make this easier with a programmable thermostat that can be set to automatically increase temperature settings for times you are regularly out of the home or sleeping.

–        Check your filter. A dirty filter can cost you plenty in utility bills. Save stress on your unit and money off your energy bill by replacing filters on their regular maintenance schedule.

–        Keep ducts well sealed. A small leak in your air ducts could be leaking expensive cooled air outside of your home. Have your ducts inspected by your HVAC professional along with regular maintenance on your unit to make sure every element of your system is working efficiently. 

Keeping up on maintenance and managing the use of your unit can allow it to work at its most efficient level. Not only can this save you money on energy bills this summer, it can also prolong the life of your unit, making it worth the effort.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Is Your Air Conditioning Broken Down Again?

July 10th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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There comes a point in the life of an air conditioning unit when it’s more cost efficient to replace the system than to have it repaired yet again. This is especially true of units that are ten years or older. The level of efficiency has changed substantially in the last decade in almost all A/C units, making them more energy-friendly and cost effective. If your air conditioning system is constantly having problems, it may be time to switch to a newer, more efficient model instead of paying another repair bill. 

Signs It Is Time For A New A/C Unit

Beyond constant breakdowns and high energy bills, there are some other signs that it may be time to invest in a new A/C unit. It is possible that the unit will no longer be able to be repaired enough to limp along through the rest of the summer. Some of these signs include: 

  • Uneven temperatures. If your home has hot and cool areas or rooms instead of an even temperature, it can be a sign that your unit is either too large for your home or is ready to be replaced. It is very common for homes to be equipped with a unit that is too large, causing it to cycle too quickly. Getting a new, more efficient model which is sized correctly can improve the air temperature consistency while reducing your energy bills.
     
  • Running loud. An A/C unit that is getting noisier is a good sign it may be on its last leg. The banging, clanking and other noises you hear are often the tell-tale signs that components inside the unit are wearing out. 

Instead of waiting for the inevitable death of an old air conditioner, most likely on a hot day when it is almost impossible to get a new one installed immediately, call your HVAC professional today to begin shopping for a new unit.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Air Conditioning Can Reduce Outdoor Allergens

June 18th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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Millions of people suffer from allergies, especially during the summer months. Pollen and other airborne allergens fill the air, making many people wheeze, sneeze and walk around with puffy eyes. According to WedMD.com, one of the best ways to reduce allergy symptoms is to reduce your exposure to these outdoor allergens. You can do that by sitting back and enjoying your air conditioned home. 

Using Air Conditioning To Reduce Allergens

If you suffer from outdoor allergies, you need a place that is free from these antagonizing elements that are making you ill. Make your home a place to relax and enjoy some refuge from sneezing and wheezing by keeping pollen and other outdoor allergens out of your home. WedMD offers some of the following suggestions, including using your air conditioning: 

  • Keep doors and windows shut to keep out allergens
  • Use your air conditioning unit to keep your home cool and filter out allergens
  • Wash clothes and bedding in hot water to kill dust mites
  • Have your air conditioning ducts cleaned and filters changed before summer 

While you cannot stay in your home all the time, by making it as allergen-free as possible, you can at least have several hours a day of relief. This is especially important at night, when you need to get a good nights rest to tackle the next day. 

Since your air conditioning unit is so important in creating an allergen-free home, make sure it is ready for the summer season by having regular HVAC maintenance performed. Call your local HVAC specialist to have your unit serviced, including changing any air filters and cleaning your ducts if needed.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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What Is SEER?

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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If you have been shopping for a new air conditioning unit, you most likely have come across SEER ratings on different models. The SEER stands for the seasonal energy efficiency rating, which is a gauge of how much cooling output is given against the input of energy. SEER ratios are established by the  Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), which define what these ratings mean when buying an air conditioning unit. 

Analyzing SEER Ratios

When researching what air conditioning units will best fit your needs, the SEER ratio can have an important impact on your final purchasing decision. In a nutshell, the higher the rating, the better efficiency of the air conditioner. The rating is created by calculating BTUs, watts per hour and total hours used. To compute the rating, the BTUs and watts are multiplied by the hours used. These two numbers are used to create the ratio or rating. 

The SEER ratio is generally listed on a sticker attached to the air conditioning unit, or will be listed within the product specifications if you’re shopping online. You may also see units that list EER, which is the energy efficiency rating. The big difference between these two is that SEER is gauging the efficiency of the unit during an entire warm season, where EER is rating efficiency for certain temperature periods.

Not all air conditioning unit may display SEER; however, your local HVAC service professional can easily calculate this rating for you. SEER is not the only consideration when buying a new unit for efficiency, but is also important for choosing the right size and model for your specific home, which is why it is always best to consult with your air conditioning professional when purchasing a new unit.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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The Bigger Is Better AC Myth

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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On hot summer days, we want to be able to get away from the heat with refreshing, cold air in our homes. To maintain that cool air, we depend on our air conditioning units to keep the heat at bay. So when it’s time to buy a new air conditioner, many homeowners are convinced that they should buy a unit that’s bigger and more powerful, giving them the cold air they desire. However, bigger is not necessarily better when it comes to AC units. In fact, the only things that will be bigger will be your energy bills, in most cases. 

The Right Size AC Unit Is The Better Unit

AC units come in a variety of sizes and powers, meant to cool different sizes of homes. It makes sense that a 4,000 square foot home will need a larger AC unit than a home that is less than 2,000 square feet. However, some homeowners get caught in the trap of thinking that if they buy the larger unit made for a larger home, they will get increased comfort. Unfortunately, that is not necessarily true. What will happen is that they will pay more to cool their  home to the same temperature that a correct sized AC unit could have done for less money and energy. 

If you have a correctly sized AC unit that is not cooling your home effectively, it is most likely due to problems with the unit, not because the unit is too small. Before spending the money to replace the entire unit, call your local HVAC service company to inspect and service your existing unit. It may just need a tune-up, new filter or some other simple and affordable service. If you do need a new system, they can offer you solutions for AC units which are appropriately sized for your home, and will be efficient as well as effective.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Save Money This Summer Cooling Your Home

April 10th, 2014 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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Hot summers and high energy bills go hand in hand. Trying to stay cool can cost a small fortune in electricity alone. Before the summer heat hits, there are a few things you can do now to reduce your cooling bills. While there may be an initial investment, in the long run these tips can save you money by reducing your energy bills for years to come. 

  • Duct repair. You may not realize it, but your ducts may be seeping your expensive cold air into the crawl space or attic of your home. Poorly sealed or cracked ducts can wreak havoc on your energy bills. Have your ducts inspected for any leaks, having them sealed or replaced if necessary.
  • Programmable thermostat. Installing a programmable thermostat has dual benefits. One, you can set your thermostat to begin cooling the home right before you arrive home, so you come into a nice, comfortable house. Second, you are not spending money to cool the home when no one is there to enjoy it, saving you money off your energy bill.
  • Regular air conditioning service. Keeping your air conditioning unit serviced is paramount to ensuring that it is running efficiently. Most units should have semi-annual services, usually spring and fall, to check the filter, inspect and tune-up the system. 

Call your local HVAC service team to discuss scheduling a spring maintenance inspection and tune-up for your air conditioning unit and ducts. If you do not have a programmable thermostat, talk to your HVAC professional about the models they have available. Taking these steps now can mean smaller energy bills this summer, and many summers to come.

Posted on behalf of Western Aire

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