HVAC Issues Only Coastal Homeowners Will Experience
Living on the coast has its benefits. You have easy access to the ocean and a wealth of recreational activities such as surfing, fishing, and boating. As wonderful as coastal living is, it does have its disadvantages, and no they’re not hurricanes and tropical stores. Coastal residents have specific HVAC problems that come with living so close to the ocean.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Winter
Winter’s right around the corner, which means it’s time to start taking measures to ensure your home keeps the heat in and the cold out this winter. Your heating and cooling systems consume a great amount of energy, so taking the time to prep them for the cold months ahead will help you save on your energy expenses. Here are seven ways to get your HVAC system ready for the cold to ensure your home stays nice and warm all winter long.
How Your HVAC System Affects Your Allergies
Escaping Allergies
Although the length of spring and fall may vary from year to year, one thing remains constant. That is the fact that many people suffer from allergies during these two seasons. There’s one location where you should be able to minimize the physical symptoms brought on by blooming weeds outside, however, and that place is the inside of your home. If your ductwork hasn’t been properly cleaned or maintained, though, escaping allergies inside your house may be difficult for you. The following provides overviews of how your HVAC system can affect your allergies and what you can do to make sure the inside of your home remains a safe and healthy place to be.
HVAC Tips to Help Reduce Allergic Reactions in the Home
Keeping the air in your home clean and breathable is important. It reduces the risk of respiratory illness and lessens allergy symptoms. If you’re sneezing or having difficulty breathing in your home, the air quality might be poor. Luckily, there you have options to make these symptoms better, and it all starts with HVAC maintenance. Check out these tips to help reduce allergen symptoms in the home.
Is it Time to Replace Your HVAC System?
Antique collecting is a fantastic hobby, but not when it comes to your HVAC system. With summer rapidly approaching, it’s high time to endure that you have an HVAC system that will keep you comfortable and safe in your home for years to come. While the costs of a new heater or AC can be off-putting, repairing your system will, in most cases, cause it to run more efficiently. This means that you’ll save money in the long run on energy costs.
Leaking, clanking, dubious air, and even a yellowing or unsightly appearance are all signs that it’s time for an upgrade. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call an HVAC company today to discuss your options for a stellar, up-to-date HVAC system. You owe it to yourself and the home that you’re proud of.
Without further ado, here are some telltale signs that it’s time to update your HVAC system.
It’s Older Than You
Back in the day, individuals and corporations alike weren’t so concerned with energy efficiency. Even if they were, the technology wasn’t yet available to construct systems that ran efficiently. If your HVAC system is over ten years old, there’s a good chance you’re not only wasting energy, but you’re paying more than you should be for heating and cooling.
When you install a new system, you stand to save up to 40 percent on your energy bill. Not to mention, gone will be the days where you and your guests have to look upon an unsightly thermostat and unit. You’ll be able to control the temperature of your home on a digital screen with the touch of a button, indicating that you’ve moved into the 21st century.
Undesirable Noises or Smells
If your unit is making strange clunking noises, this is indicative of a problem with its internal operations. All of the parts of your HVAC system should be moving seamlessly without waking you from a peaceful night’s sleep. If you’re hearing brand new and frightening sounds, this indicates that a malfunction will take place in the near future.
Additionally, strange smells are a sign of poor air quality. This is a sign that your system has been infested by dust, mold, excessive moisture, or other unwanted elements. If your HVAC system regularly takes in materials it’s designed to filter out, it may be beyond repair.
Repairs Cost You a Fortune
If you’ve already called in the professionals to repair your heating or cooling system a handful of times but you’re still experiencing the same problems, it’s time to move on. Yes, new installation is likely to cost more than one repair appointment. However, how many repair appointments do you need to schedule before you’re losing money? Not many.
Stop dealing with your antiquated and potentially unsafe HVAC system. Call a professional today if you notice any of the above issues as well as refrigerant leaks or lack of cool or hot air. HVAC companies offer a diverse range of services that can help you in almost any situation. All you have to do is pick up the phone.
Ways to Make Your HVAC System More Energy Efficient
On average, more than half of a building’s energy usage can be attributed to the HVAC system. If your system is not functioning as effectively as it can, you are likely losing a lot of money every month. Use the tips below to make your building’s HVAC system more energy efficient and save some cash, too.
Upgrade Your Equipment
If your HVAC system is old and using out-of-date technology, the best thing you can do is replace it. Upgrading to a new energy efficient model may cost more up-front, but it will save you money in the long run. Be sure to look for the EnergyStar logo when buying your new equipment so you can be sure it is energy efficient.
Programmable Thermostat
You can also save money by purchasing and installing a programmable thermostat. This way, you can pre-set the temperature around the schedule of the people in your home. After all, there’s no point in having the heat turned up to 76 degrees Fahrenheit if nobody is home. By using the set-it-and-forget-it method, you won’t even have to think about the thermostat and you can still save money.
Clear the Vents
Your HVAC system won’t work very well if the vents are blocked. Re-arrange the furniture in the room to ensure nothing is blocking the air vents and ducts. You should also clean the air ducts regularly, as dust and debris can negatively impact its efficiency as well. Taking these simple steps will help preserve the airflow in your home.
Adjust the Temperature
Most people cannot tell the difference in temperatures that are two or three degrees away from each other. By altering the thermostat just a little, you can maintain the comfort of your home and save some money. If it’s hot outside, setting the thermostat to 75 degrees will use 18 percent more energy than a thermostat set to 78 degrees. Set the thermostat closer to the temperature outside to improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency.
Improve the Home’s Insulation
You can also ensure your system is working efficiently by improving the home’s insulation. Poorly insulated homes lose more hot air in the winter and cold air in the summer, which means it will cost you more to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Add insulation to your walls and windows, as well as around outlets, pipes, and ducts. Pay close attention to the attic and basement, as these spots are usually where homes lose the most heat or cold.
Change the Air Filter
This is a simple maintenance task that can make a significant difference. Air filters that are loaded with dust and debris will block the air from entering your home. Your system will run for longer and use more power to make your home comfortable. Be sure to clean dust out of the air filter every so often to keep your system functioning properly. You should also hire a professional to inspect the system every year and make sure it is as energy efficient as possible.
Signs That Your HVAC System Needs Repair
The comfort level of your home or business is maintained by an effectively operating heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. When running properly, the HVAC unit works to circulate cool air in hot and humid conditions, and comfortably warms the environment on the most frigid of days.
HVAC systems work hard to maintain a comfortable climate, and you likely have the electricity bills to show for it. HVAC units typically consume more energy than any unit in a business or residence, so its efficient operation is important. Regular maintenance by a professional technician is essential to avoid costly repairs.
Over time, the heating and air conditioning system will fail to work properly. Age, lack of maintenance, and wear and tear are a few of the factors that can contribute to a malfunction. There are many warning signs that can tell you if there is a performance problem with your system. Here are four signs that will make you want to contact your HVAC repair technician.
Poor Air Quality
An obvious sign that your unit is not working properly and is in need of repair is when the air conditioner blows warm air instead of cold air, or struggles to blow air into the room. Even if cool air does circulate, you may notice that the air quality is not cold enough for comfort. The coils may be dirty and need cleaning, or the compressor could be failing. If you notice this problem, you will want an HVAC expert to take a look at the unit.
Rising Bills
The heating and air conditioning system uses a great deal of energy. A sudden jump in the electricity bill that does not correspond with an increase in usage is a sign that the HVAC unit may be experiencing a problem and is due for repairs. You will likely notice this happening in older, less energy-efficient systems.
Strange Smells and Sounds
If you switch on your heater or air conditioner and a pungent or unpleasant odor comes from the vents, you may want to contact a technician to diagnose and head off what could be real damage to the unit. That smell could be from a malfunctioning motor, or damage to the electrical wiring. The smell could be the result of mold growth somewhere in the system or the ductwork. If you become aware of bad smells from the ducts, then repairs to the unit will be necessary to safeguard the health and safety of your family or employees.
Moisture
Moisture or leaking in or around your HVAC system can indicate a minor issue, such as a clogged condensation tube, or something more serious, like leaking refrigerant. Wet areas around the unit are evidence that the unit is in need of immediate repair.
Signs of problems with your heating and air conditioning system requires prompt response and repair. A failing or broken-down system will cost money as well as cause overall discomfort to the people in your home or place of business. If you notice signs of a problem, contact your HVAC repair technician right away.
5 Reasons to Prep Your HVAC for Spring Now
You probably have a long list of tasks to prepare your home for spring and the warm weather months ahead. One top priority? Your HVAC system. As you probably know, an HVAC system in good repair can help you save on maintenance costs and reduce the risk of many health problems for your family.
Here are five great reasons to prepare your HVAC for spring and the sunny summer months ahead.
1. A Healthier Home
Air ducts contaminated with dirt, dust or other materials can cause health problems for people who live in your home. A cleaning after the winter months can clear up any potentially hazardous materials as well as confirm your HVAC system did not suffer any damage during the winter months. If anyone in your home is prone to allergies, it’s even more important to schedule a regular cleaning of your HVAC system.
2. Improved Air Quality
Tuning up your HVAC for spring can not only protect your family’s health, but it can also improve your home’s overall indoor air quality. Having your HVAC serviced will confirm whether there are any problems with filtration, humidification and dehumidification, as well as proper ventilation. It’s important to have your indoor air quality tested to make sure your HVAC system has no leaks and that it provides fresh and clean air throughout the year, and now might be the best time to consider installing an indoor air purifying system to ensure high-quality, clean air inside your home year round.
3. Lower Utility Bills
Along with improving your air quality, a spring tune-up for your HVAC system may also result in lower monthly utility bills. Spring HVAC servicing will ensure there’s no dust on your indoor coils, breakage or leak in your ducts or layers of dirt on your outside coils. This tune-up can also confirm whether the system is low on refrigerant. Everyone loves saving money on energy bills!
4. Prevent Potential Breakdowns
No one wants to think of their HVAC system breaking down, especially during a hot Florida summer. When you schedule a tune-up, the team can ensure your HVAC system is prepared for the warm season and address any potential problems. Remember, summer heat is rough on your HVAC system, and it’s good to be prepared.
5. Extend Your System’s Lifespan
Having your HVAC system examined and serviced on a regular basis may extend its lifespan. In turn, that will save you from costly repairs. Routine maintenance can prevent small problems from becoming major headaches.
With the winter months coming to an end and the warm weather of spring upon us, there’s no better time to schedule a tune-up for your HVAC system. Whether for health reasons or simply to lower your monthly utility bill, investing in your home’s heating and cooling system is always a good idea. Contact the professionals at Cox Heating & Air Conditioning today and let us prepare your HVAC for spring and the long summer ahead.
4 Benefits of a Winter HVAC Inspection
Think you should wait until the warmer months to have your home’s HVAC system looked at? Think again. Winter is actually a great time for a thorough inspection of your home’s heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Here are four reasons to schedule an HVAC inspection now, as well as a few topics to bring up during your appointment.
1. Your HVAC Company is Probably Less Busy in the Winter
In Florida, summer is obviously the busy season for HVAC companies, as they work to keep people cool during the sweltering Southeastern summer. Business slows down significantly during the winter, meaning companies may be more flexible and accommodating to your schedule.
2. Regular Maintenance Is Always a Good Idea
If you’re due for an HVAC inspection, anytime is a great time. There’s no need to wait until spring to have an expert look at your air conditioner. HVAC systems that are regularly inspected and properly maintained can last for many years and will operate more safely and efficiently than those that aren’t.
3. It’s Better to Have an Inspection Now Than a Repair Later
Keeping up with maintenance now can save you from expensive and inconvenient trouble down the road. If a problem with your AC is caught during your winter inspection, you can have the necessary repairs done before you have a breakdown on a 90-degree day when all the HVAC companies are booked out for days.
4. Winter Inspections Help You Plan for Summer
If you schedule an HVAC inspection during the winter, you can discuss your options for improvements before summer comes back around. If you’re looking for ways to increase energy efficiency or save on your summer cooling bill, there may be some things you can do during the winter to make sure your air conditioning system is ready to go by the time summer hits.
What to Ask Your HVAC Specialist
There are several topics you may want to bring up with your HVAC company when they come out to do your winter inspection. Here are a few questions:
- What can I do to save energy in winter and summer?
- Is my house properly sealed to prevent heat loss in winter and keep me cool in summer?
- Can you tell me about carbon monoxide? Do you test for it?
- Am I using the right filters?
- Is there an HVAC system that might work better in my home than my current system?
You should never wait to have an overdue inspection done on your HVAC system. Always be aware of the red flags indicating that you have urgent issues that need to be addressed. Here are a few to watch for:
- Your heating bill is suddenly much higher than usual
- You feel cool drafts in your home during the winter
- There is noticeably inconsistent airflow from the different vents in your home
- You notice dramatic temperature differences between rooms
- Your heating or cooling equipment seems to be performing poorly
Regular inspections and maintenance of your HVAC system help ensure you stay comfortable in your home, no matter the time of year. Contact Cox Heating & Air today to schedule an HVAC inspection or any other type of service, and one of our professional, licensed HVAC technicians can inspect your HAVC system to ensure you are ready for Florida’s hot summer days.
Considering a New HVAC System? Winter May Be the Perfect Time
Your HVAC system may be more complicated than you think. Most have both heating and cooling components (an air conditioner and a furnace) plus a system of ducts and thermostats to provide air flow throughout your house. An effective HVAC system is vital to a comfortable home. If something goes wrong, you need to address it immediately. Repairing an HVAC system can be an intimidating prospect, and, in some cases, a new HVAC system is the best answer.
Replace and Repair in the Fall or Winter
There are a number of reasons fall or winter may be the best time for inspecting your system, repairing your current system or getting a new HVAC unit. First, taking care of any leaks or inefficiencies in your air distribution system will ensure that you maximize energy efficiency throughout the winter. This can save you money on heating bills. Further, air companies may be in less demand during the cooler months.
How to Know When to Replace
If your HVAC system was not keeping up with warm weather during the summer, it likely won’t keep up in the cold weather either. The size and condition of your system may mean that it’s time to revamp it. The system can be too small, meaning you are not sufficiently heating and cooling your home year-round. Or it can be too large and costing you money on inefficient heating and cooling energy. If you live in a humid area like Tampa, the wrong-sized system will not balance humidity levels properly. Finally, if your heating and cooling costs seem too high, it might mean it’s time to upgrade to a new HVAC system that is more efficient. A professional HVAC specialist will be able to test your system to see which solution is best for you.
Preventative Maintenance
Your HVAC system also requires regular maintenance. Purchasing a Maintenance Service Agreement is the best way to ensure your HVAC system is properly maintained year-round. During routine maintenance appointments, your HVAC technician will replace filters, remove any debris, clean condenser fan blades and many other necessary tasks. IN addition to keeping your system running well during both hot and cold weather, routine maintenance can save you money in the long run and may help you avoid costly emergency repairs.
Don’t get left out in the cold if you need to revamp or repair your home heating system. The professionals at Cox Heating & Air Conditioning in Tampa can help.
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