Are Pests Causing Problems with Your HVAC System?

May 2nd, 2019 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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Most people do not want pests in their home. Rodents, insects, snakes and other critters are not welcome in most homes and with good reason. However, there are parts of your home that extend to the outside and can invite pests to live on the outskirts without coming inside. Your HVAC system may be a haven for unwelcome pests and they could be causing problems without your knowledge.

Pests Living in Your Ductwork

The ductwork for your HVAC system could be harboring pests like rodents, reptiles and insects. Rodents are known for their ability to chew through almost anything, including metal. If they create a hole in the ductwork, they may find their way in and allow other pests to follow.

Holes in the ductwork can cause lost energy efficiency and impact climate control. Plus, those pests may be living, and dying, in your ducts. This can create air quality issues as their remains contaminate the air that flows through your ducts.

Pests Living In Outdoor AC Units

Another place an unwanted pest may want to visit is your outdoor AC unit. They even decide to make it their home, especially during the winter. Birds, rodents and snakes can create nests in your outdoor unit that can cause major damage once the unit begins working again in the spring. Rodents can also chew wiring, hoses and other components, causing significant damage.

Unfortunately, you may not know there are pests causing HVAC issues until you have your system inspected or it breaks down from damage. This is a good reason to have an annual HVAC inspection and tune-up performed to ensure your ducts and outdoor AC units are sealed properly to keep out those destructive pests.

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

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Ways to Reduce Strain on Your Air Conditioner

March 26th, 2019 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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How long your air conditioner will last and how often it will need repairs can be largely controlled by you. The harder your AC needs to work the quicker components will wear out and need replacement. To extend the life of your AC unit and reduce visits from your HVAC service for repairs, lower the strain on your AC with these few tips and tricks.

  • Use your programmable thermostat. Reducing use of your AC when no one is home or during off-peak hours is important for efficiency. Set your temperature higher for when you are not at home.
  • Don’t overdo it. 78-degrees is an efficient setting for your AC when you are at home. Going lower puts excess strain on your unit.
  • Use zones or close off areas. If you have a zone system, shut down zones or rooms you do not use. Or, shut doors where AC is not needed to help keep the main part of your home cooler.
  • Utilize other cooling methods. Just because you have AC doesn’t mean you need to use it all the time. Open the windows at night, use fans and cool down your home without using the AC when possible.
  • Keep up with maintenance. Simply having your AC cleaned, inspected and serviced once or twice a year by a professional can add many years to its lifespan and reduce the need for emergency repairs.

Not only will these tricks and tips extend the life of your AC unit, they can also reduce your monthly energy bills. With a little AC maintenance and planning, you can get a long life from your air conditioner and save money at the same time.

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

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Why Spring is the Best Time for AC Service

January 14th, 2019 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Budding trees and blooming flowers are signs of spring; they are also signs that it is time for annual service on your air conditioning system. You should have service performed on your AC unit at least once a year, but there are good reasons to plan service every year in the spring. Here are a few reasons why spring is the best time of year to get a tune-up, inspection and service on your air conditioning system.

  • Beat the rush. Once the temperatures start rising, the phones at HVAC service companies start ringing. Beat the rush and get your system checked and serviced before you need to wait longer to get an appointment.
  • Avoid breakdowns in the summer. Sure, you can get your AC serviced any time of year, but it is best to have it done right before the hottest season. If parts need to be replaced or there are other issues, get them fixed in the spring to avoid breakdowns during the summer when you need your AC the most.
  • Special deals. Often HVAC services will have a springtime deal on tune-ups and services to encourage their customers to get maintenance done early. You may be able to save money by not procrastinating until the warmer weather hits and your HVAC contractor is too busy to give a discount.

Let the blooming flowers and trees in spring be a reminder each year that it is time for an AC service. Contact your local HVAC contractor to schedule your annual service to get your air conditioning system ready to perform its best for the hot summer months ahead.

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

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How to Stay Cool When Your AC is Out

January 14th, 2019 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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It is not a coincidence that AC units tend to breakdown when temperatures are in the triple digits. The constant strain to keep your home cool can be too much, especially if your unit has not been maintained. Unfortunately, when your AC unit stops working at 9 pm at night, you are probably not alone. There may be dozens of other homeowners in your area experiencing the same problem, putting you at the back of a long line for AC repair.

If your AC unit fails and you need a get through one or more hot days and nights, here are a few tips to keep you cool until you can have your unit repaired:

  • Fans and ice. An old standby method for those with AC to stay cool is fans paired with ice. Grab a few blocks or bags of ice and put a pan of ice in front of the fan to blow cool air your way.
  • Keep the shades closed. During the day, keep your drapes and blinds closed, as well as doors and windows. At night, allow in cooler air from outside to circulate with fans in windows.
  • Cool your bed. One of the worst problems is trying to sleep when it is still 90+ degrees in your home. Put your sheets in the freezer, stick an ice pad in your pillow or slip on damp PJs – whatever you need to do to stay cool, so you can get a little rest.

Of course, the best scenario is not losing your AC at all during the hottest days of summer. Make sure to schedule preventive maintenance before the heat waves hit to ensure your AC unit is ready for hard work ahead.

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?

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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Tips to Keep Cool During the Summer

August 10th, 2018 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Air conditioning is a luxury, but it can feel like a necessity when the temperatures soar through the summer months. Luxury or not, you want to use your air conditioning to stay cool, but you also do not want to pay enormous energy bills. The best way to reduce your AC bill and keep cool is to set your temperature higher in your home and find other ways to cool yourself and your house. Here are some tips to stay cool and minimize the cost of AC this summer.

  • Use your windows. Windows can either cool or heat the home, depending on how you use them. Make sure you use drapes or blinds over closed windows during the day to keep sunshine out of the home that can heat it up and open the windows to let in cool air in the evening and early mornings.
  • Use a cooling pad in your bed. You can turn your AC off or down during the night if you use a cooling pad on your bed. You will stay cool and use much less energy during those eight hours a night.
  • Use cold or wet shirts. A t-shirt stored in the freezer or wetting your shirt and putting it back on can cool you down quickly.
  • Use your thermostat wisely. Try to reduce the use of AC when you are not home. A smart thermostat is a wise investment to help you control when to use your AC. Set it at higher temps when you are typically not home, then lower the temperature shortly before you will be going back home. Smart thermostats give you the ability to adjust these times as needed from wherever you are to save on energy.

Also be sure that your HVAC system is properly maintained and checked for its efficiency. An efficient system saves money. Stay cool without breaking the bank by keeping yourself and your home cool with these tips.

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

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How to Inspect Your Furnace or Air Conditioning Ducts

August 10th, 2018 Posted in Air Duct Cleaning
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Do you have uneven heating or cooling in your home? If you have central air and heat with a duct system, you may have a blockage in your duct system. Many items can find their way into the ducts and cause a blockage. This can cut off air to one or more rooms in your home, causing uneven temperatures. It can also cost you more on your energy bill and put extra stress on your HVAC system. Here are some tips on how to inspect your ducts to find blockages.

  • Check air flow. Turn on your heat or air and check all the vents in your home for air flow. If any do not have air coming out, there may be a blockage in that duct. If low air is coming from all ducts, check your air filter – it could be clogged and need replacement.
  • Remove vents. If there are vents with low to no air, remove the vent cover. This is often where debris gets caught, pushed up against the vent cover. Clean away any debris and check the duct for any blockages as far as you can see using a flashlight.
  • Make sure valves are open. If the vent and filter are clean, but there still is no air going to certain rooms, make sure the valves for the duct are open. Most systems have valves in the ducts to close air flow to certain rooms.

If after your inspection, you are still having air flow issues, call your local HVAC service team. There is possibly a blockage in your ducts that may need to be cleared by a professional.

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

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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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