How Often Should You Change HVAC Filters?

November 5th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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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 maintenance inspections 1-2 times 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
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 505-7426

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Does Your HVAC Need a Tune-Up?

November 5th, 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:
ClimateSmith, LLC
1925 Lena Carter Road
Buford, GA 30519
(770) 475-9528

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Tips on How to Keep AC Mold at Bay

November 5th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Your air conditioning system is full of moisture, making it a perfect haven for mold. The condensation that occurs during the cooling process allows moisture to get trapped in your air conditioner or HVAC system, which creates an ideal place for mold to grow. It is not uncommon to find mildew or black mold growth in your A/C vents; however, you should be aware that mold growth can be dangerous to your family’s health, especially black mold. Here are some tips to keep AC mold at bay.

Clean Your Vents

Take off your vents and wash them thoroughly every few months. If there is any sign of mold, make sure you wear gloves and an air mask to protect yourself. Simply cleaning the vents with warm water and soap and drying them completely can remove spores.

Keep Filters Clean

Your HVAC filters help control mold spores in your air. Make sure you are keeping up with your air filter changes to maintain clean, healthy air in your home.

Duct Cleaning

Mold can hide in your air ducts if you have central air. This means every time the air passes through, it is also picking up mold spores to spread throughout the home. You should have your air ducts cleaned every few years as needed to keep mold spores out of your duct system.

Routine Maintenance

Schedule your annual maintenance on your HVAC system to keep your system clean and free of mold. Part of routine maintenance should include cleaning the inside of your system, including the coils which can also grow mold. This is a good time to have your air ducts, vents and filters checked to stay on top of mold issues.

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

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Signals Your AC Needs Repair

November 5th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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No one wants to find out on a hot day that their home air conditioning is not working. Emergency repairs are expensive and inconvenient – the better solution is to get AC issues fixed before they lead to a breakdown. Here are a few signals that your AC needs repair so you can avoid emergency repair calls and living without your AC when you need it the most.

  • Strange noises. If your AC is louder than normal or making whining, grinding or other strange noises, it is a sign something is wrong. The motor made need service or a component could be wearing out…don’t want for the noise to go away on its own. When it does, most likely your cold air will go with it.
  • Temperature fluctuations. Is your AC struggling to keep your home cool? It may just need a new filter or some routine maintenance. However, if you wait too long, it may become more than just maintenance. Schedule a routine service to get the temperature issue resolved.
  • Moisture problems. If your AC unit is leaking or ice crystals are forming, there is an issue with the drainage or other components. If not fixed, it can cause more problems than a puddle on your floor.
  • Air flow. If the air is not blowing like it should, you could have a blocked vent, air leak or other issue. This can cause efficiency issues and cost you plenty in both energy bills and repairs.

Preventive maintenance is the best way to stay on top of AC issues before they become emergency repair problems. Make sure to keep up with routine tune-ups on your HVAC system and call a repair tech right away if you have any of these signs of AC distress.

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

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Do You Need a Carbon Monoxide Detector?

September 4th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Every year, usually during the winter months, you hear of tragic deaths due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This deadly, yet odorless and colorless gas, can quickly cause bodily harm and death when people are exposed to it in enclosed areas. Since you cannot see, taste or smell it, a carbon monoxide detector is the best way to alert you if it is present in your home. If you don’t have a detector, you may want to get one installed.

Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide does not just appear; it must be from a source. This gas is a bi-product of incomplete burning carbon-based fuels, such as coal, natural gas, wood, propane and oil. Combustion engines in vehicles produce CO, as can appliances and furnaces that use carbon-based fuel for heat or energy. When the proper ventilation is not present, the gas can fill your car or home, putting your health at risk.

CO does not take long to endanger your health. High doses of CO in an enclosed area can cause you to become unconscious within minutes and suffocate you as it deprives your brain of oxygen. Even those that survive CO poisoning can have serious brain damage and other health effects.

Homes that use gas heat or appliances should always have a CO detector, as well as homes that use propane, oil or wood. Homes that only use electricity for power or heat are less prone to CO poisoning, but if a propane or oil heater is used when the electricity is out, there are risks for poisoning. To be safe, all homes should have a CO detector installed. The next time you schedule your annual HVAC service, ask if they can provide CO testing for your home and install a detector to keep you and your family safe.

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

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How Routine HVAC Maintenance Can Save You Money

August 10th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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One of the highest costs of maintaining your home is climate control. Whether it is warming your house on a cold, winter day or trying to beat the heat with cool air in the summer, keeping a comfy home temperature can become expensive. Not only do you need to pay for the energy costs, you must consider the cost of your HVAC unit. To reduce the overall cost of climate control, consider the benefits of routine HVAC maintenance. Here are some of the ways investing in regular maintenance can reduce your climate control expenses.

  • Efficiency. When your HVAC unit is regularly maintained, it can perform more efficiently. Simple maintenance like changing the air filter and cleaning the coils can improve energy efficiency by 30% of more.
  • Performance. You will get more bang for your buck when your HVAC is well-maintained. It will take less time to heat or cool your home when it is kept at peak performance.
  • Fewer repairs. Preventive maintenance can reduce expensive HVAC emergencies and repairs. It is far less expensive to maintain your unit than constantly pay for repair service.
  • Extend the life of your HVAC system. The long-term savings of HVAC maintenance is the longevity of your unit. If maintenance can extend the life of your unit by one, two or more years, you can save hundreds of dollars off replacement costs.

Regular tune-ups on your HVAC system and other maintenance do cost money, but the return on the investment is worth it. You can realize monthly savings on your energy costs and year-round savings on repairs and replacement expenses. Talk to your local HVAC service company about scheduling your next HVAC service.

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

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Does Your AC Have Dirty Coils?

August 10th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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There are a few things that can make your air conditioner run poorly and less efficiently. One of them is dirty condenser or evaporator coils. One maintenance item that you need to stay abreast of with your air conditioner is keeping coils free of dirt and debris. This can make a big difference in the performance and efficiency, saving your money off energy bills and repair costs.

The condenser coil of your A/C unit is one of the most important components. The coils are what cool the hot air. The hot air travels through the coils and is cooled by refrigerant, but it is necessary for the hot air to be released. The cleaner the coils, the more efficiently the unit can cool the air. If the coils are dirty, the fan and rest of the unit must work harder to cool the air. This uses more energy and puts more wear on your A/C unit. Dirty coils can reduce efficiency by up to 30% and detract from the life span of your unit, costing you more money monthly and premature replacement.

Air quality plays a big part in how quickly your coils will become dirty. In desert areas, dust storms cause big issues with air conditioning units. In metropolitan areas, pollution and other factors can create dirt and residue on coils. You can clean some dust and debris off your vents and coils yourself. Use low-pressure canned air to remove dust from condenser and evaporator coils, as well as the vents.

However, to ensure your coils are completely cleaned inside and out, get them cleaned by a professional. This is usually included with most A/C tune-ups, which is another good reason to have a tune-up at least once a year.

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

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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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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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Give Your HVAC System a Spring Tune-Up

April 4th, 2018 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Spring is the perfect time to schedule HVAC system maintenance. The mild months of spring are usually when you need your HVAC system the least; why not take the time to get it serviced during this mild season? When the hot summer months and cold winter months are in full swing, HVAC service companies are busy handling cooling and heating emergencies. Spring is a great time to get a quick appointment for a tune-up for your A/C and heating system.

Benefits of a Tune-Up

Like all motorized systems, your HVAC has components that need maintenance, repairs and replacements. A tune-up service gives your system the maintenance it needs to be efficient while preventing issues during the higher-use months of summer and winter. Tune-ups usually include:

  • Filter check/change
  • Inspection
  • Lubrication, if needed
  • Check all components, replace as needed

A quick spring tune-up can catch small issues before they become big problems. A small leak can be caught and repaired before it ends up shutting down your A/C on the hottest day of the year. Preventive repairs are much less expensive than an emergency call for a breakdown and much more convenient for you and your family. Tune-ups can also help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and increase the longevity, saving you money in both energy costs and system replacement.

Don’t wait for your HVAC system to breakdown when you need it the most. Take time this spring to call your local HVAC service company to schedule your tune-up during the mild weather. You will be happy you did when you are staying cool and comfortable all summer long.

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

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