AC Repair – 5 Things You Can Do Before Calling a Repairman

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AC Repair Sherman Oaks technician starts by examining the air conditioner’s key components. They look for the following:

The outdoor unit houses the compressor, fan and condenser coil. These components work together to transfer heat from your home to the outdoors, creating cool indoor air.

During this AC Repair process, the repairman might check your circuit breaker. Sometimes, simply switching the breaker on can solve your problem.

Refrigerant Level Check

A leaking or low refrigerant level in an AC system will cause the unit to operate inefficiently, increasing energy consumption and leading to high electricity bills. This is why it’s important to have your air conditioning unit serviced by a professional. They will use specialized equipment to check both sides of the evaporator coil for pressure and temperature readings.

First, they’ll need to turn off the AC system for safety reasons. Then they’ll use a vacuum pump to remove any excess liquid from the evaporator coil. The technician will then check the gauges to see if the refrigerant level is in the proper range.

When the technician is confident that the refrigerant level is in the correct range, they’ll begin to diagnose any other problems with the system. The next step will be to check the thermostat. They’ll be sure that it is flipped to “cool” and that the setting is not too high or too low.

If the thermostat isn’t a problem, the technician will move on to checking the condenser fan motor and electrical components. They’ll also test the fuses and breakers to make sure they’re working correctly.

This is the most difficult part of the troubleshooting process, and it’s not uncommon for the technician to spend up to half of a day on this alone. This is because it’s important to note that there are many possible causes of a specific issue, including issues with wiring, fans and electrical connections.

Hissing noises are a common sign that your AC unit may have a problem with its refrigerant levels. A qualified technician will be able to spot this quickly and will have the necessary tools to fix the problem.

If the refrigerant is leaking, the technician will use a leak detection solution to identify the source of the leak. The solution will be applied to the system components and will produce bubbles if there is a leak. The technician will then add refrigerant to the system, following the manufacturer’s instructions for doing so. After doing so, they’ll recheck the pressure readings to ensure that the refrigerant level is in an acceptable range.

Condenser Coil Cleaning

Your AC’s coils are crucial to the air conditioner’s function, but they can also get quite dirty over time. Dirty coils cause the system to work harder than it should, leading to higher energy bills. They can also lead to shortened system life and more expensive repair costs.

A professional AC technician will begin by visually inspecting the coils to see if they’re clogged with large debris like leaves and spider webs. Next, the tech will use a special brush designed for cleaning coils (available at most AC stores and big box hardware stores) to clean the dirt off the coils. This will be a light scrub; the goal isn’t to get the coils spotless, but to remove any large debris that may be blocking the flow of refrigerant through them.

If the coils look pretty clear, the tech will move on to the condenser fan located in the outdoor unit. This is an external-facing component that helps to blow the warm air from your building outside. The technician will loosen the screws that hold the cover grill to expose the fan. He will then clean the fan blades with a vacuum cleaner and cleaning rags. Then he will wipe down the inside of the fan housing using a damp rag and check the fan motor to see if it needs oil.

Lastly, the AC technician will inspect the evaporator coils to make sure they’re clean and free of debris. This is a critical step to ensure that the refrigerant can flow freely through them, cooling your home properly. Depending on how dirty the evaporator coils are, you may need to rinse them with an AC foaming cleaner, available at most big box hardware stores and AC shops.

This special soap has been formulated to help clean AC coils without damaging them, and the foaming action helps it adhere to the surface of the coils while it’s working. After you rinse the evaporator coils, you’ll need to close up the access door and turn off your system at the breaker box. Finally, the technician will turn on your system again to test that it’s functioning correctly and that the coils have been cleaned effectively.

Condenser Fan Cleaning

In order for your AC system to work effectively, the coolant needs to be able to flow freely. When this is not the case, you may notice that your air conditioner runs, but you don’t feel a rush of cool air coming from your vents. There could be a few different reasons why this is occurring, but it is essential to determine the cause of the problem so you can find an AC repair solution that works for your home.

The air conditioning technician will look for any potential problems with the airflow within your home’s ductwork and air filters. These problems can restrict the amount of cool air that is delivered to your home, and they will be identified through a series of tests and HVAC diagnostic techniques.

If your cooling system is not producing enough cool air, there may be a refrigerant leak somewhere in the line. The AC Repair technician will look for this by performing a system pressure test, and he or she will use specialized equipment to locate the leak. If the technician finds a refrigerant leak, it is vital to make sure that this problem is fixed as soon as possible.

A leak in the refrigerant line can also be caused by a clogged condensate drain. The AC Repair technician will check the condition of this drain, and he or she will clean any blockages that are preventing water from exiting the system.

Finally, the AC repair technician will inspect the condenser fan and cleaning it of dirt and debris. To do this, the technician will shut off electrical power to the unit at the electric panel and switch. Then the technician will remove the outdoor condenser fan, and he or she will use a fin comb to straighten any bent or damaged coil fins. Then the technician will wash away any dirt and debris that is left behind with a garden hose set at low pressure to avoid damaging the fins.

Once the condenser fan is clean, it will need to be reassembled and put back into place. The quick disconnect may need to be replaced after this, but the technician should not have any trouble reassembling it with minimal effort.

Electrical Component Testing

If your air conditioner is not cooling the house, there are many reasons why this might be happening. Often the problem can be sorted out without even needing to call an AC company for repair services. The five troubleshooting steps you can do before calling an AC repairman include:

If you are unsure what is wrong, start by visually inspecting the components on the circuit board to make sure they are in good condition. This involves looking at the physical appearance of the components and checking for obvious damage such as cracks, chips, or burns. A quick visual inspection can often spot problems that need more advanced testing tools and techniques, such as a microscope or magnifying glass.

Next, test the circuit board for continuity, resistance, and voltage. This can be done with a multimeter that can handle AC and DC voltages. A continuity test checks whether two parts of the circuit allow electricity to flow through them. Resistance and voltage tests can also be done on the circuit board itself, but it is important to ensure that all of the components are disconnected from power before starting any electrical testing.

In addition, you can check the thermostat for proper calibration and settings. The thermostat is the brain of your AC system and is essential to regulating temperatures within residential spaces. If the thermostat isn’t calibrated properly, or the temperature sensors are faulty, this may be the reason why your air conditioning isn’t working correctly.

Taking these steps before calling an AC technician can save you money on expensive repairs and ensure that your AC is functioning at optimal efficiency. By following these simple tips, you can help the service technician find the cause of your AC malfunction and resolve it quickly. Hopefully this will give you years of cool and comfortable air! Ron Walker is a former Marine with a B.S. degree who spent many years in the HVAC industry as a professional service technician and manager. He has also spent time training other technicians in the industry to be more knowledgeable and technically competent. This passion led to the creation of HVAC Training Solutions, LLC.

When It’s Time For Water Heater Replacement

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Nothing feels better than a hot shower after a long day. But when you notice that your water heater is starting to give out, it might be time for a replacement.

Water Heater

Replacing a water heater is no ordinary DIY project. It requires plumbing, electrical, heating ventilating, carpentry skills and knowledge of state and local building codes. Contact Water Heater Replacement Denver for professional help.

If you have a water heater that is over ten years old, it may be time to replace it. You should consider this especially if you have been having problems with it, such as hot water not turning on or leaking. It is important to repair any leaks as soon as possible to prevent serious water damage in your home.

The cost of a new water heater can vary, depending on the type of water heater you choose. For example, tankless water heaters can be more expensive than traditional ones. However, the energy efficiency they provide can help you save money on your energy bills. If you’re unsure which water heater is right for you, ask your HVAC professional for advice.

Whether you choose an electric or gas model can also affect the price of your water heater. You’ll need to consider the size of your household and the average amount of hot water used per day to determine which type is best. Additionally, you’ll need to consider the location of your home. If the replacement water heater needs to be installed in a different area, this will increase installation costs.

Water Heater Replacement can be a large investment, but it’s worth the cost if your current one is not working properly or has reached the end of its lifespan. If you’re having frequent repairs or notice that your water bill is increasing, it’s a good idea to have a pro take a look at your current unit and advise you about your options.

The most cost-effective way to deal with a broken water heater is to replace it before the problem becomes severe. However, many homeowners wait until the last minute and put in whatever is available. This can cost you more in the long run, as it won’t be as energy-efficient or as safe as a newer model. If you have a parts warranty still in place on your existing unit, repairing it might be more affordable than replacing it. However, if the repairs are extensive, it might be more cost-effective to replace your water heater altogether.

Energy Efficiency

Most homeowners put little thought to their water heater until it goes bad. A broken water heater can mean no hot showers, a house full of puddles and laundry that sits unwashed. It can also create a lot of stress and expense for a family.

A new water heater will provide a long-term solution that reduces these stresses and expenses. But before you rush out to purchase a replacement, it is important to understand that not all water heaters are equal when it comes to energy efficiency.

It is important to look for a model that matches the type of fuel available in your area. Some areas may have a cheap supply of clean, low-cost electricity, while others may have a lower cost for natural gas or propane. It is also important to consider the environmental impact of the model you choose. Electric water heaters are a great choice for many homes, and they generally use less energy than gas models. However, if your area uses electricity supplied by coal-powered plants, then a gas model could be a better choice.

Energy-efficient water heaters are more expensive to purchase than traditional tank-style models, but they can save you money in the long run by lowering your utility bills. A high-efficiency model will also help to cut the costs of repairing or replacing older equipment that is less efficient.

Replacing an old water heater with a new, high-efficiency model can cut your water heating energy usage by anywhere from ten to fifty percent. Considering that the water heater usually accounts for more of your home’s energy use than any other appliance, this is a big savings potential.

Energy-efficient options include solar, heat pump and condensing gas models. These systems can be used to replace existing water heaters or installed in new homes. Many local utilities and energy companies offer rebates and incentives to encourage consumers to upgrade to more efficient water heaters. They can help you make the best decision about which type of system is right for your home. These programs can also help you to finance the installation cost, which can offset the initial investment in a new water heater.

Life Expectancy

There is nothing quite like a hot shower in the morning or sinking into freshly washed sheets at night. These little luxuries are provided by water heaters, but these tanks don’t last forever. Knowing when your water heater is about to fail can prevent you from getting caught off guard and having to deal with the inconvenience of a sudden, unexpected replacement.

In general, a water heater should last about ten years. However, a lot of factors determine the actual lifespan of a water heater. Water quality, usage strain, and even climate can greatly influence the longevity of a water heater.

The typical water heater requires annual maintenance in order to keep it functioning properly. A home inspector can help you understand the best way to maintain your water heater and when to seek professional repair or replacement services.

Water Heater Replacement may be necessary when you notice that your hot water tank isn’t heating up as quickly as it used to or you haven’t had any hot water at all for awhile. If this is the case, it’s likely that the tank is simply overworking and needs to be replaced.

Another sign that it’s time to replace your water heater is the presence of sediment in your hot water. This sediment buildup can cause the water heater to rust and eventually fail. If you find sediment in your water, it’s best to call for professional repairs immediately, as the tank will likely need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

Finally, if your water heater is making unusual noises, this is probably a good indication that it’s nearing the end of its life. Mineral and sediment deposits can create air pockets inside of the tank that when heated release suddenly, causing banging or rumbling sounds. This means that your water heater is experiencing serious problems and should be replaced.

If you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your water heater, a professional home inspection can help you decide. An InterNACHI home inspector can provide information about the average lifespan of a water heater and can help you weigh the cost-benefit of replacing it before it fails.

Safety

Water Heater Replacement is a job best left to professionals. It’s not only risky for homeowners to attempt a DIY installation, but it’s also illegal in many areas. The job involves water and gas lines, so your city or homeowner’s association will likely only grant permission to a licensed plumber. This will help protect your property and safety in the event something goes wrong.

Water heaters use natural draft to draw combustion fumes up the flue and out through a vent. If that draft fails, those fumes can spill out and into the home. To prevent this, make sure the vents are free of dips, they’re not blocked by anything like a dryer, and they’re routed outside. It’s also a good idea to install carbon monoxide detectors. These detectors will warn you of any CO buildup, which can be life-threatening if inhaled.

It’s also a good idea to remove everything combustible from the area around the water heater. If the unit is leaking, combustible materials could catch fire and burn, or they might even explode. This is especially important if you have children or pets in the house. Make sure to child-proof the area, and keep your kids and pets away during repairs.

You should also take care to clean up the area around your water heater regularly. It’s a good idea to put a reminder on your phone or calendar to do so. This will help prevent rust, which can lead to corrosion and leaks.

If you have a gas water heater, it’s also important to avoid storing flammable materials near the unit. Gasoline fumes can seep out of the tank and into your home, causing an explosion. Also, make sure to check the gas shut-off valve to the water heater on a regular basis.

If you suspect a gas leak, it’s important to leave the house immediately and call the gas company. It’s possible that the gas can be redirected, but it’s better to play it safe and get out of the house. If you have an electric water heater, make sure to hire a licensed electrical worker (LEW) to wire it.

Tips For Improving HVAC System Efficiency

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HVAC systems are an important part of residential and commercial buildings. They help regulate and stabilize temperature, air quality, humidity, and more.

Old systems with low ratings require more energy to run than new, high-efficiency units. Click here at https://alltemprefrigerationfl.com/ to learn several things you can do to improve your system’s efficiency.

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Change The Air Filter

Air filters are an essential part of any HVAC system and they help to keep the system running efficiently. Dirty filters restrict airflow and force the equipment to work harder, consuming more energy. Changing the filter regularly is a simple task that can make a significant difference in energy savings.

One of the most common problems people have with their HVAC systems is that they are not changing the air filters often enough. This causes the equipment to have to work harder, causing it to wear out faster and consume more energy.

To change a filter, first turn off the HVAC unit so you can access it easily. Then remove the access panel and take out the old filter, which can be a bit messy as it may have dust or dirt on it. Replace the new filter, making sure it is oriented in the correct direction. Many filters have arrows on them that indicate which way the air should flow, and it is important to follow these directions.

Also, be sure that furniture or curtains are not blocking the vents or ducts, which can block airflow and again affect efficiency. Finally, write the date on the new filter so you will remember when it is time to change it again. It is best to do this once every three months. It’s a small task that can save big money in energy costs and prevent the need for expensive repairs. The cost of replacing a dirty air filter can be more than the cost of the annual repair service for an HVAC unit. This is one of the easiest ways to cut your energy costs.

Turn Off The Lights

There are many things you can do to improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency. These include using appliances that generate heat such as ovens, stoves, and dryers only during the coolest parts of the day (like early mornings and late evenings). Doing so helps keep unnecessary heat out of your house. It also prevents your air conditioning system from having to work as hard.

You should also close your curtains or blinds during the summer, which helps block out excess sunlight and keeps your home cooler. However, during winter, you should open your curtains to allow the sun to naturally warm your home, which decreases the pressure on your AC system to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Many HVAC systems have built-in UV lights, which use special UV-C light to sterilize microorganisms that can cause respiratory illnesses. These lights are especially helpful in preventing mold growth on the evaporator coil, which is a common problem for many air conditioning units. They can also sterilize the air that moves through the ductwork into your home’s vents.

If you don’t have an HVAC system with a built-in UV light, you can also get a portable version that goes near the evaporator coil and stays on all the time or one that sits in your supply vents and sanitizes the air before it circulates through your home. These lights can reduce your energy usage by up to 50%, as they eliminate the need for your HVAC system to operate as often.

Additionally, these lights can help you neutralize odors in your home that are caused by bacteria and other pathogens. They can be extremely effective if you’re used to opening your windows and doors every time your guests arrive, which only provides a temporary solution.

Turn Down The Thermostat

Changing the temperature settings on your thermostat is one of the simplest ways to improve HVAC energy efficiency. Many modern thermostats are programmable and can be set to automatically change the temperature during different times of the day. For example, setting it to lower the temperature when you’re asleep and higher when you’re at work can save a lot of money throughout the year.

Another way to reduce HVAC energy use is by insulating your home as much as possible. It can make a big difference in how far your HVAC system has to work to maintain the right temperatures. It’s especially important to insulate ducts and outlets, as these are common areas of heat loss. You can also insulate windows and walls to help trap conditioned air inside.

It’s also important to keep your outdoor unit clean, as it can significantly reduce the energy it takes to cool your home. This includes keeping it free of any debris and making sure it doesn’t get blocked by tall bushes or trees. Additionally, you should regularly check the area around it for moisture or water leaks.

Finally, if you’re going on vacation or leaving your house for extended periods, it’s a good idea to raise the thermostat temperature a few degrees. This will prevent your system from running more than it needs to, which can strain an already overworked air conditioner and hasten a breakdown.

It’s also worth noting that it takes a lot more energy to turn on an AC system than it does to maintain the same temperature. That’s why it’s important to only adjust the thermostat temperature a few degrees when necessary.

Keep Your Vents Clean

Clean air vents are an essential part of your HVAC system. If your vents are clogged with dust, they can’t blow the air out of your house as effectively. This causes your system to work harder to get the job done, which increases your energy usage. Cleaning your air vents can be as easy as pulling down the covers and vacuuming out the cobwebs, dirt, and dust with a household vacuum. Using a long hose will help you reach deep into the corners and crevices. You can also clean the grills on the ceiling by wiping them down with a damp rag or towel.

Keep furniture, draperies, and rugs away from your indoor vents to allow for clear airflow. It’s best to do this routinely to avoid the buildup of debris. You can also try using a nozzle on your vacuum to suck out the dust. It won’t get as deep as a professional cleaning, but it will make a big difference in how well your vents work.

Regular maintenance on your HVAC system will ensure that the unit is working efficiently. It’s a good idea to schedule an annual maintenance service with a qualified technician who will inspect your system for any problems or areas of improvement. This will help your home maintain its optimal temperature and save you money on energy costs.

In addition to regular maintenance, it’s important to keep the area around your outdoor unit free of dirt, leaves, and branches. This will ensure that the unit can work properly and reduce the risk of leaks or other issues. It’s also a good idea to schedule regular pruning on shrubs and trees near your unit.

Install Fans

The simplest way to save energy is to install fans in your home or office. This will help to circulate the air, which can keep your HVAC system working efficiently throughout the day. This can also reduce the amount of work your HVAC system has to do to maintain a comfortable temperature, which will result in lower energy bills.

In addition, you should also invest in high-quality MERV-rated replacement filters. This type of filter helps to trap 1.0 – 10.0 microns of particles like lint, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and more. This will prevent these particles from contaminating your indoor air and making it hard for your HVAC system to keep up with the demands of your indoor environment.

If you have a large house with long, complicated ductwork systems, it may be difficult for your HVAC system to deliver conditioned air to all areas of the building. Adding inline fans will help to increase the airflow through these longer ducts, which can boost your HVAC system’s efficiency. You can install these fans by plugging them in or hardwiring them into your existing HVAC fan circuit.

Keeping your return vents clean and free of debris is another simple way to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency. Regularly vacuuming these vents will help to prevent dust from blowing into the HVAC system and causing it to work overtime to keep your indoor environment comfortable.

By taking these easy steps, you can significantly improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and lower your energy costs. Remember, though, that you should still hire a professional for routine maintenance and repairs. It’s not worth it to put your expensive investment at risk by trying to save money with DIY fixes that could damage your system and cause costly repair bills.

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Your Heating And Cooling Guide

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Your heating and cooling system is essential to your comfort throughout the year. This article will help you understand how your HVAC system works including the most popular heating and cooling systems for homes, basic terms and technology, tips to save energy with your home’s heating and cooling, and basic maintenance recommendations.

Thermostat Settings

There’s no shortage of recommendations on how to adjust your home temperature, but the truth is that the right settings make a huge difference in comfort and energy savings. The best thermostat setting for winter and summer depends on when your family will be home, as well as the outside temperature.

A general rule of thumb is that 68 degrees is the ideal balance between comfort and energy efficiency, according to ENERGY STAR. For the best results, raise that temperature when you are home during the daytime and lower it at night or while you’re away.

Using a programmable thermostat can help you achieve the most energy efficient thermostat setting for winter and summer. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for each day of the week, and your system will automatically turn up or down based on a schedule you create. This can reduce your energy use, but be sure to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to program your unit.

The “wake” setting should be set at the time you’re planning on waking up, and the same should go for the “sleep” and the “away” settings. You can also set the “return” option for fifteen-to-thirty minutes before you expect to return, so your house won’t cool down too much while you’re gone.

Another great way to save energy is to use ceiling fans in winter, as they will improve heat distribution throughout your home. Similarly, use your air conditioning to its full potential in summer to keep your home cool and comfortable without spending more on electricity.

Your indoor humidity levels can also affect your home comfort and your health. High indoor humidity can promote the growth of mildew and mold, which may lead to a variety of health problems, including allergies and sinus infections. Low humidity levels can cause dry nasal passages, which can lead to nose bleeds and exacerbate breathing problems for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

In order to avoid these issues, it’s important to maintain the proper humidity levels in your home and to change your HVAC settings seasonally as the outdoor climate changes. Additionally, be sure to keep your thermostat in a central location in your home and away from drafts, direct sunlight, or electrical appliances that emit heat.

Air Leaks

Air leaks are one of the biggest reasons that homes struggle to keep comfortable. They allow unwanted outside air into a house, which can cause indoor drafts and breezes. They also allow heated or cooled home air to escape, which wastes energy and makes it harder for the HVAC system to maintain your desired temperature.

Leaks can occur anywhere in a house, including through walls, floors, and ceilings, around doors and windows, electrical sockets and switches, fireplaces, crawl spaces, attics, and dryer vents. Often, they occur in the main unit and the large ducts that run throughout the home.

The best way to feel for unwanted airflow is to turn off your furnace and fans, close all the exterior doors, and walk through your house with your hand placed on any wall where it meets a window or door frame, light switch, or electrical outlet. If your hand feels a draft, there is probably an air leak.

Maintenance

Your HVAC system is the foundation of your home’s comfort. It keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s important that you maintain it well in order to prevent problems. A good place to start is by looking at your manuals. Manufacturers will typically have set maintenance periods that they provide for their systems. This can help you determine a maintenance schedule and options that will be right for your system.

The first thing you should do is double check your thermostat settings. It may seem like a simple step, but it’s surprisingly common to overlook it. It’s also a great idea to look for air leaks and make sure that your ducts are properly maintained. You can also download our easy HVAC maintenance checklist for your convenience. This will save you time and money in the long run. It can also prevent your AC from breaking down when you need it most.