Troubleshooting Air Conditioning Problems: Obstructions Matter
An Issue Some Homeowners Forget
When they encounter problems with a malfunctioning or noisy air conditioning unit, homeowners sometimes forget to check the exterior of the residence. Don't overlook this location! Obstructions around external air conditioning machinery pose problems sometimes.
Especially in very warm, sunny, humid climates where gardeners enjoy vigorous plant growth, vegetation may grow rapidly. Florida falls within this category of tropical spots. The wonderful climate in this area promotes robust greenery. Snowbirds, in particular, need to take precautions to prevent air conditioning problems caused by unnoticed obstructions.
For optimum AC unit operation, you should not permit anything to clog or block the exterior of your home air conditioning unit. You'll maintain a much safer premises by taking steps to check this issue periodically.
A Helpful Checklist
One useful step that may assist you in helping to detect problems caused by obstructions proves very simple. Keep a checklist handy. Review these items on a periodic basis:
1. Has sand, cobwebs or debris covered the outside of your air conditioning unit?
2. Do any items of furniture sit too close to the unit to permit safe operation?
3. Has a storm window become an obstruction to a window air conditioner?
4. Have trees, shrubs, grass, climbing vines or other plants begun obstructing the unit?
5. Do household blinds or drapes sometimes blow outside and come into contact with exterior air conditioning equipment?
6. Has trash blown into the area and created an obstruction hazard?
7. Does an exterior fixture, such as a swinging porch or a doghouse, stand too close to the exterior of the unit?
By remaining alert and checking these issues frequently, you'll detect some possible problems before they can cause damage to your air conditioner. The simple step of performing this home maintenance on a regular basis helps promote safer, more efficient cooling. Simply remove obstructions to keep air flows circulating better.
Unavoidable Obstructions
How should a conscientious homeowner handle an unavoidable obstruction? Some older houses in Florida, in particular, may not enjoy efficient window air conditioning units as a result of structural issues. Architects decades ago planned some of these lovely structures without taking highly automated modern home cooling systems into consideration.
One step that might prove helpful in this situation involves reviewing the location of your air conditioning unit carefully. For instance, if your window air conditioning unit or swamp cooler once stood unobstructed, but now sits clogged among mature trees and vines that you would prefer not to remove, re-locating the air conditioner makes sense. The extent of your ability to take this type of corrective action may depend mainly upon the design of the residence.
The Best Sites For Relocated Air Conditioning Units
In a room with a window air conditioner and multiple windows, the issue of finding another site for the unit may not pose a problem. In fact, simply by changing the location of the AC equipment to an unobstructed window, you may enjoy much better air flows inside and outside the home.
Try and find a place for your air conditioning unit that enjoys its own dedicated electrical outlet. Many older units require a lot of electricity. Depending upon the wiring in your residence, you may find that plugging in a vacuum cleaner to a connected outlet will sometimes blow a fuse if the air conditioner operates at the same time.
In the Venice and Sarasota area of South Florida, our company helps residents requiring assistance with these issues. We offer state-of-the-art technology that can provide a solution to this widespread problem. We'll help you discover the best options for cooling your home or office in Florida cost-effectively and efficiently. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Putting Off AC Maintenance Will Cost More In The Long Run
Upgrading your HVAC unit can be a significant expense for your family’s budget. For this reason, you may be putting off purchasing a new HVAC system for as long as possible.
The old adage ‘If it is not broke, do not fix it’ may apply to many situations. However, in the case of HVAC systems, you should replace your old system before it breaks down.
According to the experts at Energy Star, your air conditioner or heat pump unit should be replaced every 10 years. The reason is technological advances make newer HVAC units more efficient than ever. Efficient units can save homeowners hundreds of dollars in utility costs each year.
By using an older HVAC system to heat and cool your home, you are literally blowing your money out of the window. You may be saving money on the purchase price of a new unit, but each month you are spending more money on utility costs. Older HVAC systems are inefficient and wasteful.
HVAC units are only as good as their efficiency as they perform their functions. Each unit is given an efficiency rating by Energy Star known as SEER. For example, units that were installed prior to 2005 have a SEER rating of less than 10.
To put these numbers into perspective, a SEER-9 system that is upgraded to a SEER-13 system can save your family 38 percent in utility costs per year. That is a significant saving.
In 2005, the Department of Energy mandated that all HVAC units have a SEER number that is no less than 13. This legislation by the federal government is an effort to improve energy efficiency in households throughout the United States.
Understanding SEER
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This is a metric system that was devised to determine the efficiency of an HVAC unit. If a SEER number is high, then it is determined to have a greater level of efficiency. You can purchase an HVAC unit as high as SEER-23.
A simple formula is used to determine the SEER number of an HVAC unit. The calculation that determines the efficiency of your HVAC unit is the number of BTUs divided by the number watts in the system.
The SEER numbers represent the potential efficiency of an HVAC unit. They are not exact measurements that will determine how the HVAC unit will perform in your home.
Factors such as the climate of your geographical area, the size of your home and the quality of your air ducts can determine the actual SEER performance of your unit. At any rate of performance, it will not be less than SEER-13.
Purchasing a New Unit
Before you go to your local ‘big box’ hardware store to purchase a unit with the highest SEER number possible, there are factors that should be considered.
- HVAC units should be purchased according to the size that is right for your home.
- High SEER numbers may not be appropriate for your heating and cooling needs.
- HVAC efficiency can be affected if it is improperly installed.
- Regular maintenance affects your actual SEER number.
Installing Your New HVAC Unit
You might be tempted to install the unit yourself or get it installed by a family friend who performs unlicensed HVAC work. Resist the urge to do so.
Since your HVAC's SEER number and efficiency will be affected by improper installation, you should hire an HVAC company using the following guidelines. All HVAC technicians who install high-efficiency equipment should be certified and experienced.
Experienced HVAC technicians will be able to examine your home and current HVAC system to help you determine a SEER system that is appropriate for your circumstances. If you purchase a system that is not right for your home, you will lose efficiency regardless of the SEER number.
HVAC Efficiency
Although SEER numbers play an important role in your HVAC system's efficiency, a higher number does not mean the unit is better. Our technicians at Mahle Cool Air and Heating will help you find the best unit that suits your home and budget. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options.
Does a Better SEER Rating Mean a Better Air Conditioner?
Upgrading your HVAC unit can be a significant expense for your family’s budget. For this reason, you may be putting off purchasing a new HVAC system for as long as possible.
The old adage ‘If it is not broke, do not fix it’ may apply to many situations. However, in the case of HVAC systems, you should replace your old system before it breaks down.
According to the experts at Energy Star, your air conditioner or heat pump unit should be replaced every 10 years. The reason is technological advances make newer AC units more efficient than ever. Efficient units can save homeowners hundreds of dollars in utility costs each year.
By using an older system to cool your home, you are literally blowing your money out of the window. You may be saving money on the purchase price of a new unit, but each month you are spending more money on utility costs. Older heat pumps and cooling systems are inefficient and wasteful.
Each heating and cooling model form every manufacturer is given an efficiency rating by Energy Star known as SEER. For example, units that were installed prior to 2005 have a SEER rating of less than 10.
To put these numbers into perspective, a SEER-9 system that is upgraded to a SEER-13 system can save your family 38 percent in utility costs per year. That is a significant savings.
In 2005, the Department of Energy mandated that all heating and cooling equipment have a SEER number that is no less than 13. This legislation by the federal government is an effort to improve energy efficiency in households throughout the United States.
Understanding SEER
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This is a metric system that was devised to determine the efficiency of an HVAC unit. If a SEER number is high, then it is determined to have a greater level of efficiency. SEER ratings go as high as SEER-23.
A simple formula is used to determine the SEER number of an HVAC unit. The calculation that determines the efficiency of your HVAC unit is the number of BTUs divided by the number watts in the system.
The SEER numbers represent the potential efficiency of an HVAC unit. They are not exact measurements that will determine how the air conditioner or heat pump will perform in your home.
Factors such as the climate of your geographical area, the size of your home and the quality of your air ducts can determine the actual SEER performance of your unit. At any rate of performance, it will not be less than SEER-13.
Purchasing a New Air Conditioner or Heat Pump
Before you go to your local ‘big box’ hardware store to purchase a unit with the highest SEER number possible, there are factors that should be considered.
- HVAC units should be purchased according to the size that is right for your home.
- High SEER numbers may not be appropriate for your heating and cooling needs.
- HVAC efficiency can be affected if it is improperly installed.
- Regular maintenance affects your actual SEER number.
Installing Your New HVAC Unit
You might be tempted to install the unit yourself or get it installed by a family friend who performs unlicensed HVAC work. Resist the urge to do so.
Since your SEER number and efficiency will be affected by improper installation, you should hire a company using the following guidelines. All HVAC technicians who install high-efficiency equipment should be certified and experienced.
Experienced technicians will be able to examine your home and current HVAC system to help you determine a SEER system that is appropriate for your circumstances. If you purchase a system that is not right for your home, you will lose efficiency regardless of the SEER number.
HVAC Efficiency
Although SEER numbers play an important role in your HVAC system's efficiency, a higher number does not mean the unit is better. Our technicians at Mahle Cool Air and Heating will help you find the best unit that suits your home and budget. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Air Conditioner Technology Has Been Improving And Home Owners Benefit
Many people think of air conditioners are ugly, boxy units, rattling in their frames as they drip condensation, or else as an environmentally unfriendly way to cool down homes and businesses. But air conditioning technology has been radically improving in the past few years, and many of our customers are surprised to learn by some of the latest advances in cooling systems.
Air Purifiers
Modern air conditioning systems do a lot more than just cool homes and offices, they also now purify the air as it circulates. Depending on the model and system you use, advanced filters can remove dust particles, strip allergens, and block noxious pollutants and fumes from contaminating your home or office.
Whole-House Filters - An efficient and economical way to purify the air in your home is to use a whole-house filter. If you're using a centralized A/C forced air system, the whole-house filter will be installed by a qualified technician inside the ductwork. Although it'll be out of sight, the filter will be capturing the return air and trapping particles, pollutants, and dust, cleaning the air you breathe.
Flat Filter - Every forced-air centralized system already uses a filter, usually thin rectangular framed units that rely on fiberglass to remove particles from the air. New designs in filter technologies allow flat filters to be extremely effective at removing particulates from the air, but only if you regularly change them on a monthly basis.
Pleated Filters - Similar to flat filters, the wavy or accordion design of a pleated filter are a bit more expensive, but take advantage of physics to add more filter surface area into the same size. Advanced electrostatically charged filters are perfect for stripping allergens from the air, particularly pet dander and pollen.
Extended Media Filters - Far larger than standard flat or pleated filters, extended media filters are about 8 inches thick. These advanced filter systems have to be installed by a professional, but once placed inside your ductwork they provide an outstanding way to screen dust, allergens, and particulates from the air.
Electronic Filters - Known by professionals as electrostatic precipitators, electronic filters are powered devices that add a magnetic charge to the filter. By constantly ionizing the surface of the filter, electric filters strip even tiny particles like smoke or dust motes from the air. Although electric filters are a bit more expensive and require professional installation, they never need replacing.
UV Filters - Ultraviolet light, a natural component of sunlight, is one of the world's best germicides. Usually installed in conjunction with an electronic filter, UV filters are used in hospitals and medical facilities to safely and silently sterilize the air from bacteria, viruses, and other airborne threats.
Energy Efficiency
Many homes and offices are cooled by air-conditioning units that are 20 years old or older. New breakthroughs in condenser and compression technology mean that today's advanced air conditioning units are about 250% more efficient. Using less electricity to cool your home not only saves you money but also is a great way to reduce your overall impact on the environment.
Air conditioners are rated by their SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) level, which refers to how efficiently they operate. The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the system. By law, the minimum SEER level for a new air conditioning unit must be 10, but recent changes in federal regulations will mandate that all systems installed starting in 2016 must be a minimum of 13. When choosing a new air conditioning system, always check the SEER level and choose one that has a minimum SEER rating of 13.
Environmentally Friendly
Originally, air conditioning units relied on CFCs, dangerous compounds that are now banned in the United States and most countries around the world due to their devastation of the ozone layer. New coolant fluids were developed, but many of them still contained chlorine and other toxic chemicals.
Today, advanced air conditioners now take advantage of R410A, a chlorine-free coolant fluid that does not cause damage to the ozone layer.
Whisper Quiet
Whereas once air conditioners were rattling, noisy contraptions, breakthroughs in compressor technology and fan design mean that even the largest units are virtually whispering quietly. Noise output is measured in decibels, and many of today's most advanced models operate at an astoundingly quiet 68 decibels, roughly equivalent to listening to a conversation in a restaurant or office. The new line of air conditioners and heat pumps from Bryant is extremely quiet, energy efficient contact Mahle Cool Air today for more information and pricing options. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Types Of Air Purifiers for Your Home
Air purifiers are convenient household devices that, as their names suggest, purify and cleanse the air. They accomplish this by extracting contaminants from out of the air. Air purifiers can be helpful to all people but are often considered to be especially positive for those who have asthma or those who have allergies. If you're thinking about purchasing an air purifier for your residence, you should review all of the options that are available to you. You can also contact our reputable family-run HVAC company for more information. Our Venice-based business has NATE certification and also is a Bryant dealer with factory authorization. When it comes to air purifiers, we truly know our stuff.
There are numerous options are effective whole-house filters.
Pleated filters are one option. These types of filters are adept at obstructing microscopic particles that are particularly harmful to the lung tissue. If this sounds interesting to you, look for a pleated filter that's electrostatically charged. These kinds of pleated filters are terrific for drawing in typical allergens such as pet dander and pollen. Although these filters sometimes cost a bit more than others, they're generally totally worth the extra money.
Ultraviolet filters are also available. These whole-house filters are a smart option for those who are generally most concerned about the presence of germs. Ultraviolet light is capable of destroying airborne viruses and bacteria. As a result, UV filters are particularly common sights in medical facilities such as hospitals. If you ever happen to visit the tuberculosis section of a hospital, you'll likely see an ultraviolet air filter there.
Electronic filters are yet another strong option in whole-house filters. Another common name for the electronic filter is "electrostatic precipitator." These filters are often integrated into ductwork. When air travels within these filters, single high-voltage currents place electrical charges on the particles. Collector plates with opposite charges then retrieve the particles. These collector plates are situated on the units' other sides. These types of filters are particularly useful for tiny smoke particles. When smoke particles are excessively tiny and therefore cannot be caught inside of media filters, electronic filters are a good idea. These filters differ from media filters in that they don't call for replacements ever. It is important, however, for people who have electronic filters to clean their aluminum collector plates several times a year. These collector plates require cleaning with soapy H20.
Extended media filters, last but not least, are yet another choice in whole-house filters. These filters are shaped like boxes. They consist of filtration media heaps that, as a result, enable them to be stronger and more successful than standard fiberglass filters. If you want to invest in an extended media filter for your residence, you have to get it professionally installed. Extended media filters require annual replacement.
Since maintaining clean air in the home is such an important thing, it's crucial for homeowners to take the process of selecting a whole-house filter extremely seriously. Your goal should be to invest in a whole-house filter that's capable of efficiently retrieving pollen and dust, for example.
As far as the subject of air purification goes, no other company in the Venice, Florida area can assist you better than we can. If you have any questions or concerns regarding air purifiers and whole-house filters, for example, we can provide you with all of the information you could ever possibly need.
Since we're equipped with NATE certification, customers can trust our expertise 100 percent. NATE refers to the HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) technician certification standard. The talented technicians who work for our company have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide our customers with the finest HVAC service around, zero exceptions.
If you need assistance with air purification, our company can be a great asset in your life. Our customers can back up our reliability, as well. Just read all of the glowing reviews we get on a regular basis. As soon as you realize that you need assistance with your air filtration system, let our company know. We can offer you dependable and trustworthy suggestions that can get you on the right path. Contact our company as soon as possible to make an appointment with us. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Energy Efficient Heat Pumps Save Money All Year
Save Money
One of the many reasons that more people are opting to use heat pumps is because they can help them save a lot of money. Heat pumps do not use as much energy as a standard HVAC system. Because they do not use as much energy, they can help cut the cost of your energy bills.
Keep in mind that you can use heat pumps during the summer and winter months. During the winter months, the heat pump will extract the heat from outside and transfer it inside. This process will reverse during the warm months. It will remove the heat from your home and then transfer it outdoors.
Therefore, you will be able to save money during the entire year if you have a heat pump. In fact, many people who have heat pumps do not use their air conditioner or heater.
Very Long Lifespan
In order to ensure that your heat pump lasts a long time, you will need to make sure that you take good care of your heat pump. You will be able to get a steady source of heat for the years to come. Heat pumps that are well-cared for can last up to 50 years. Keep in mind that a heat pump requires less maintenance than your standard HVAC system.
Safe
Heat pumps are very safe. In fact, they are safer to use than many other heating systems. A heat pump can also protect you from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a deadly by-product of burning fuel.
Convenient
It is very easy and convenient to use a heat pump. You can decrease or increase the temperature with just a push of a button. A heat pump can also cool or heat up your home in just a few minutes. Studies have shown that people are most comfortable in a room with a temperature that ranges from 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat pump will be able to maintain the same temperature for as long as you need it to.
You will also be able to leave the heat pump on all day and not worry about having to spend a fortune on your energy bill. Additionally, you will be able to come home to a comfortable place.
Helps Keep The Air Clean
Not only can a heat pump keep your home comfortable, but it can also keep the air clean. It helps remove mildew and dust. Keep in mind that exposure to dust and mildew can exacerbate allergies and other medical conditions. A heat pump can also act a dehumidifier, which can help keep your home dry. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Is Duct Cleaning a Waste of Money?
So many people want to know if duct cleaning is a waste of money. Commercial cleaning firms, health studies and scientific journals conclude that the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning system in a home and building is probably a good idea. Duct cleaning usually involves a complete cleaning of the HVAC’s air handler, coils, grilles, housings, fans and motors. Cleaning air handling units, heating and cooling coils, and air handling units can improve running efficiency.
Reports by the National Institutes of Health say there is not enough proof to determine if duct cleaning actually improves inner air quality (IAQ) or building occupant health. The following information may help you to decide if your home will benefit from HVAC duct cleaning.
Professional Duct Cleaning
Professional duct cleaners use brushes, vacuums and specially-designed blowers to clean the return, supply, and intact ducts throughout the home. Duct cleaning should be thorough, and should include a cleaning of the coils, air handler, housings, registers, motors, grilles and fans of the system. Although the jury is still out about whether duct cleaning improves air quality and helps people with respiratory allergies and illness, some states make HVAC duct cleaning a routine part of public buildings.
If duct cleaning isn’t proven to be necessary, there are instances in which cleaning ducts and the HVAC system may be important.
Indoor Air Quality
There are many growing environmental concerns in our world and it is a relatively simple task to convince people that ducts in their home require cleaning. Most homeowners value safety and cleanliness at home and paying to have the HVAC unit cleaned represents is not a major expenditure.
HVAC Contamination
In contrast, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that cleaning is only necessary if the HVAC unit and its ducts are deemed “contaminated.” Since many homeowners may not know if mold is present in the HVAC system without an inspection, they may put off a decision about duct cleaning. Importantly, the State of Florida reports that mold is a serious problem. Mold requires only "a suitable place to grow, nutrients [e.g. dust] and moisture" to grow. Homeowners in Florida may believe that regular duct cleaning is an important preventive measure.
When to Clean Ducts and the HVAC System
While duct cleaning alone doesn’t seem that necessary, there are cases where cleaning the HVAC unit and ductwork could be useful. Consider HVAC unit and duct cleaning:
-- After a home modeling [especially important when high dust levels, asbestos abatement, and removal of lead paint occur]. Before performing such work, close off the ducts to prevent these dangerous elements from entering the home circulatory system.
-- After removing animals, such as rodents, found nesting in the HVAC and ducts. Cleaning in the aftermath of extermination is an important sanitary step.
-- When mold is present. Consider mold a serious problem.
-- When someone in the home is ill or suffering from a mystery allergy or respiratory illness.
-- When contaminates, such as pet hair, particulate debris, or odors are released through previously cleaned/vacuumed registers. The problem may rest within the duct system.
Disreputable Cleaning Firms
As with almost any business, disreputable firms--scammers--do exist. Homeowners should not give in to fear tactics used to get them to purchase duct cleaning services. To protect against scammer businesses, consider these details:
-- Ask for at least three references and call them. Ask each reference if they are satisfied with the business service.
-- Demand full-service cleaning of the heating and cooling unit. Cleaning the ducts is not enough.
-- Discard "specials" that offer discount duct cleaning. This type of offer allows the scammer to get a foot in the door. The goal is to sell additional products or services. A thorough cleaning requires special equipment and more than a single worker. The cost of professional HVAC unit and duct cleaning is about $500.
-- Obtain a firm estimate from any business offering cleaning of the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning system. A reliable business will provide a preliminary inspection as well as a written estimate.
The Fine Print
Hire only National Air Duct Cleaners Association-certified (NADCA) businesses. Licensing and insurance protect the homeowner against defects in labor and workmanship. NADCA-certified businesses will follow guidelines established by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA). This is crucial when insulated ducts are cleaned. The business should provide the homeowner with a visual inspection of their work to ensure your satisfaction. The visual inspection enables the homeowner to inspect each duct in person or via remote camera. The homeowner may withhold payment until the visual inspection is complete. Any use of steam is contraindicated because these treatments add moisture. Sprays or sealants should not be used and may infuse toxic chemicals into the system. At present, the EPA has not registered any chemicals for use in HVAC and duct cleaning.
Conclusion
Duct cleaning performed by a reputable professional cleaner may be helpful in many situations.
How To Choose The Best Air Conditioner
Your home’s HVAC system is one of the most important appliances for home comfort. It makes sense to choose the best possible system you can find. Here are things to consider when choosing a new air conditioner.
Energy Efficiency
Air conditioners manufactured today are more energy efficient than those of the past. This translates to less environmental impact and lower utility bills. However, not all air conditioners are created equal, and there are specific things you should look for to get the most out of your investment.
When you shop for central air conditioning, be sure to look at the SEER rating. This stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio and it makes a big difference. Look for ratings numbered 13 or higher. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
If you purchase an A/C with an ENERGY STAR label, you can be assured the SEER is at least 13. ENERGY STAR labels are only given to appliances that meet strict guidelines set by the EPA. They go through a battery of tests to achieve this designation.
Type Of Air Conditioner
There are several types of air conditioners, including ducted central air, ductless central air, and window units. If you are upgrading from a ducted central air unit, you will probably want to remain with that type of system. If your home is new or you have no existing ductwork, then a ductless system may be best. These are also called ductless mini splits, and some are equipped to cool in summer and heat the home in winter. The indoor and outdoor units are connected via a thin tube, and these ductless systems are energy efficient and quiet.
Window units or portable air conditioners are sometimes suitable if you only have a small space, such as a garage, to cool.
Indoor Comfort
Look for comfort aspects aside from cooling, such as how well the unit dehumidifies and how quiet it operates.
Size
Size is very important, but this does not mean you should buy the biggest unit you can find. No matter what kind of air conditioner you buy, if you choose one that is too small, you won’t get adequate cooling and the unit will have to work very hard. This usually equates to extra noise, inefficiency and a reduced lifespan of the unit. However, if you purchase a unit that is too big, it will cycle on and off too much. Your home may be cool, but it will also be damp and you will be using more energy than needed.
Here is why choosing an oversized air conditioner can be a problem. Aside from cooling, air conditioners remove some moisture from the air, which keeps humidity levels lower and makes your home feel cooler and generally more comfortable. Since air is moved through a filter, it also helps with indoor air quality, provided the filter is changed regularly. An oversized air conditioner doesn’t need to stay on very long at a time to bring temperatures down in the home. This makes it shut off too quickly to dehumidify the air and affects air quality.
The best way to determine what size is right for your home is to have an HVAC technician come out to do a cooling load calculation on your home. Using industry-approved calculations, the technician can determine the size of system you need plus give you tips about home improvements you could make to improve energy efficiency once the unit is installed.
Other Features
Other features to look for including a fan-only switch and a variable speed air handler. A fan-only switch allows you to use only the fan when temperatures are so cool outside that you don’t need the cooling component. This saves energy while keeping air flowing through your home.
A variable speed air handler is a common feature now. Instead of pushing cool air into the home in a sudden rush before eventually shutting off again, what this does is simply change the fan speed so there is a continuous flow. These air handlers keep things quieter and make the home more comfortable, evenly cool.
Choosing a new air conditioner shouldn’t be a rushed affair. When you pick the right system, it should last for many years and save you money through energy savings. Remember to ask your HVAC professionals anytime you have any questions about which A/C is right for your home. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
How a Programmable AC Thermostat Can Save You Money on the Utility Bill
Naturally, everyone wants to save money on their utility bill. Did you know that having a programmable AC thermostat can help in that goal? People who program their AC thermostat are able to control the temperature of their home at all times. This type of thermostat regulates the air conditioner which contributes to the level of air quality in a home. Take a look at how a programmable thermostat can improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system and save on your household’s utility budget.
Controlling Your System While You’re Away from Home
One of the biggest benefits of getting a programmable thermostat is that you can control your air conditioning while you’re away from the house. You can adjust the temperature on your thermostat while you’re on the job, out enjoying a ball game or even while vacationing in another state. In short, your thermostat doesn’t have to remain at the same temperature just because you are not at home to adjust it.
Avoiding Drastic Adjustments of Temperature
In some households, the temperature on the thermostat is constantly changing. One person adjusts the thermostat to increase the cool air while another person adjusts it so the air conditioner turns off. The good news is that homeowners can program their thermostat to remain at a consistent temperature throughout the day. This allows the air conditioner to work in a steady way to establish a comfortable atmosphere in a home.
Setting the Temperature and Forgetting About It
Homeowners who want the atmosphere in their home to remain at a particular temperature can program their thermostat with preferred settings. This allows a homeowner to avoid changing the setting of the thermostat throughout the day. Plus, a homeowner can program the thermostat to maintain a particular temperature throughout the night. Some homeowners like their home to be a little cooler as they sleep while others prefer the atmosphere to warm up. Creating the perfect atmosphere in a home is possible with a programmable thermostat.
An Efficient Air Conditioner
An inefficient air conditioner runs continually in order to create a cool atmosphere in a home. This wastes precious energy and drives up a homeowner’s utility bills. Also, when an air conditioner is running continuously, it causes a lot of wear and tears on its parts. This may result in a lot of repair calls or the need to replace the entire system. When homeowners can program their AC thermostat it helps them to avoid having a continuously running air conditioner. The air conditioner achieves its purpose in an efficient way.
Homeowners who are looking for a dependable, NATE certified HVAC company will find what they are looking for with our family owned business. Everyone in our business takes pride in their work. We are a Bryant Factory authorized company that cares about the satisfaction of our customers. In fact, we know that our reputation as an HVAC business depends upon the satisfaction of our customers. That's why we go out of our way to do whatever we can to make sure customers are happy with our service. Homeowners interested in a programmable thermostat, a new air conditioner or any other HVAC service are sure to be pleased with the work of our company. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options.
Summer AC Bills Are Almost Here – Learn How To Lower Your Costs
During the summer, operating without air conditioning can be a tough thing. With temperatures rising above normal, all you need is some cool air to make things a bit bearable.
Downtown Sarasota and Venice FL Can Get Hot and Humid Even In May.
What this means is that your energy costs will definitely shoot up. However, the good news is that there are ways to ensure that you cool your surroundings and at a lower cost. Preparing for the hot season in Venice can help you save more in terms of air conditioning. Here are some tips and tricks on how to do exactly that.
Create Thermal Boundaries
One of the best ways of saving money on air conditioning is by sealing all holes and spewing vents in your home. The trick is to seal any places where air can leak out. The best area to start with is along window seals because these are places where drafts are likely. This extra insulation tactic can be achieved using either caulking or foam.
In case your air conditioning is window-unit, you should ensure that it fits firmly so that there is no air escaping around it. According to experts, creating such thermal boundaries around the home can help you save approximately 20 percent off your air conditioning costs in the summer.
Program your Thermostat
What most homeowners do not know is that they can tweak their thermostats a bit and make their air conditioner do less work. The idea here is to turn up the heat in your home a few degrees so that the air gets warmer. This way, your air conditioner will not be overworked.
The problem arises where you have to turn up your room temperature manually and at specific times. Because this can be hectic, you can consider investing in a programmable thermostat. This kind of thermostat can be programmed at specific times and regulate the temperatures even when you are not around.
Keep the Sun Out!
Another way of ensuring that your air conditioning costs go down during the summer is by keeping the sun out. Any shade is welcome especially since any sunlight in the house will make it difficult for you to keep air cooler. The best way of keeping the sun out is by investing in curtains, which will subsequently create a greenhouse effect and help you maintain cooler temperatures in the house.
If you have a long-term plan, you could consider planting trees and plants with big leaves to create a shade effect in your rooms.
Keep the Filters Clean
If you have never given this a thought, try it and see how effectively it works. When you clean your air conditioner, it enables it to run smoothly. Clogged air conditioner filters are normally overworked because the conditioner has to work extra to circulate air. This, in turn, takes more electricity and it could be the reason why your energy costs are high.
If you can, invest in air conditioning systems that are easy to clean. Removable filters that can be cleaned under a sink are the most convenient because you can clean it any time you suspect it is clogged with dirt.
Use Air Conditioners Wisely
Probably one of the most effective ways of reducing your air conditioning costs during the summer in Venice is to exercise some best practices to save energy.
For instance, if you are not home, there is no reason why you should leave the air conditioner on the whole day. You can turn it up to 80 when you are gone and put it back to comfortable levels when you get home.
Another best practice is to switch on the air conditioner when it is uncomfortably warm. If you can tolerate the temperatures in the room, you could save some of that energy for a time when the warmth is too much to bear. Taking a cold shower to keep you cool and fresh is another trick you can find very useful.
Ask the Experts
Finally, yet importantly, you should consider calling the professionals to check your conditioning systems in preparation for the summer. An energy auditor can help you check the home for any air leaks while an air conditioning expert can check the systems for clogs, rust and grim. The experts can recommend measures such as repairs and re-installation to enable you to save energy during summer. Such checks should be done regularly, at least on a yearly basis, to ensure that your systems work efficiently.
With these tips and tricks, you should be able to save on your energy costs by a big percentage this summer.
If you have very high electric bills call Mahle Cool Air and our NATE certified AC technicians will test and diagnose your air conditioner and provide a solution to keep things cool while bringing your summer AC bills down to size. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!