Wi-Fi thermostats are the latest fad. Having one makes you look cool and gives valid reasons to fiddle with your phone the whole day. Well, if that’s what you think, you’ve just touched the tip of the iceberg. In all honesty, Wi-Fi thermostats are all about flexibility of control and money-saving. The fact that they look futuristic and clean is just an added advantage. Most homeowners are not aware of what a boon they are. Owning one means you can start saving more from the word “Get Go.”

What Is A Wi-Fi Thermostat?

A Wi-Fi thermostat is nothing but a smart thermostat. It is a programmable thermostat that connects to your home’s Wi-Fi connection. This feature gives one the freedom to control it from anywhere with the help of a smartphone and a stable internet connection. 

Sadly, not everyone uses their smart thermostat to the best of their advantage. According to a study, almost 42% of homes use a programmable thermostat. At first glance, the figure is very encouraging, but the harsh truth is that 40% of these thermostats are not programmed. The reason behind this glaring disparity was that most homeowners found the Wi-Fi thermostat hard to understand and use.

Benefits Of Using A Wi-Fi Thermostat

The main advantages of using Wi-Fi are:

1. The convenience of controlling the temperature from anywhere.
2. It helps you gain a better understanding of your home’s energy consumption.
3. Ability to sense the environment and make automatic adjustments based on the homeowner’s adjustment habits.

How Much Money Does Wi-Fi Thermostat Save?

When used optimally, a smart thermostat can save around $180 annually in energy costs. It translates to savings worth 10% to 23% of the annual heating and cooling costs. It means you can recover the cost of your smart thermostat within a year or three. Over the lifespan of your HVAC, these savings make for a substantive amount of money saved.

The Main Question – How Does A Wi-Fi Thermostat Help Save Money?

A smart thermostat is not a magical device. Instead, it is a device made up of sensors and uses of algorithms to predict behaviors based on homeowners’ programs. The fundamental requirement behind rendering savings is, being insightful about how cool or warm one wants the home to be at specific times of the day. 

A Wi-Fi thermostat uses the program set by the homeowners to heat or cool the home. Ideally, one sets different temperatures for when the home is occupied and for those times when it is empty. When empty, the cooling and heating requirements are not the same. To save energy, at such times, you can program the thermostat to increase the temperature during summers and decrease it during winters. 

What smart thermostats do differently is that they can sense when the home is in residence or not. Depending on that, it modifies the temperature setting even if the programmed setting is different. Essentially, the Wi-Fi thermostats save money by keeping the temperature low (in winters) and high (in summers) for as long as possible.    

How Wi-Fi Thermostats Enable Savings?

Wi-Fi thermostats have the capability to learn the homeowner’s behavior in terms of temperature settings for the home. Accordingly, they help set programs that give maximum energy savings. Most smart thermostats can assess when you are at home and when away using third-party integrations, sensors, or geofencing abilities. Additionally, they remember your preferences as you continue using the device. Along the way, they also learn the length of time it takes to heat or cool the room based on the historical data for your home. The smart thermostat then utilizes all this information to work out the best programming solution for your home that optimizes your schedule and energy savings.

Factors On Which Energy Savings Depends

Energy-saving equates to money-saving, but every home is not the same. So the savings will differ from home to home and situation to situation. Nonetheless, some important factors that govern energy-savings are:

1. Zones In The Home – Homes divided into different zones have a separate thermostat for each area. Energy savings in these homes are far more significant because of improved and superior control over each area’s heating and cooling requirements. In short, homes divided into zones will have more savings in energy costs than homes that are not.

2. Energy Rates In Your Area – Homes in areas where the energy costs are high will save more by using smart thermostats. As against this, those areas where the energy costs are low, the savings too will be on the lower side. It is because energy savings are directly proportional to energy costs. 

3. Duration Of Energy Saving Mode – The longer the energy-saving mode runs on the Wi-Fi thermostat, the greater is the money-saving and vice-versa. It is because, during this period, lesser energy is consumed in heating or cooling the home.

4. System Usage When On Vacation – When on vacation, the home’s heating and cooling system works differently for different people. Some people have pets at home, so they cannot afford to shut it down completely. Similarly, if someone stays in a hot and humid area, shutting down the system will result in mold formations. They, too, have to keep it on. In both these cases, the temperature settings can be modified to suit the needs of the time. However, those homes where the complete HVAC system is shut down when the homeowners are away on vacation will maximize energy-saving. 

Closing Thoughts

Learning the nitty-gritty’s of Wi-Fi thermostats may look like a daunting task to people, but it is not really so. It’s more about getting used to it slowly and steadily, just like you have become used to smartphones. The more you use your smart thermostat, the more comfortable you will get using it. Hooking it up with your home’s Wi-Fi connection will give you more control over it. And at the end of its life, you will realize that it has paid more than its money’s worth in energy savings.

Aztil Air Conditioning provides a full suite of HVAC services in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our air experts specialize in keeping your home comfortable by taking care of its heating and cooling system. We have a trained and efficient team of 100+ technicians with considerable on-the-job experience. If you have any queries or concerns regarding Wi-Fi thermostats or wish to discuss the matter further, we shall be glad to help. To help you, our office is open 24/7. There is no need to wait. You can call us anytime. To contact us dial +1-888-729-8452.

The compressor is a critical component of the air conditioner. When it dies on you, there’s always a niggling worry – wondering whether its time to buy a new AC is entirely understandable. AC is an expensive piece of machinery. So expensive indeed, that most people can afford one, only after proper financial planning and budgeting. The last thing you want to hear at such a time is that you have to buy a new one. Today, we aim to tell you the truth about what the dead compressor means for you. 

What Exactly Is A Dead Compressor?

The outdoor unit of the HVAC system is the compressor unit. It is considered dead when it stops working. You can hear neither hum nor vibrations emanating from it. At best, you may just hear the fan moving inside the outdoor unit. 

Does A Dead Compressor Mean It Won’t Work Anymore?

First of all, it’s essential to know that the dead compressor does not always translate to a compressor that won’t work anymore. It’s just a term that denotes that for the time being, it is not working. There are several reasons that could result in such an occurrence. Some of them are rectifiable, and others not. Let us have a brief glimpse at the causes which can render the compressor dead.

1. There is no power supply to the outdoor unit – rectifiable
2. Failed capacitor – rectifiable
3. Dirty condenser coils – rectifiable
4. Overheating – rectifiable or not depends on the problem causing overheating and the age of the unit.
5. Electrical problems – may or may not be easily rectifiable.

Knowing Whether The Problem Can Be Rectified Or Not

One can conclude that the compressor is dead for good only after figuring out whether the issue that causes it to stop working as a solution or not. This is something easier said than done. To verify, you need a trained HVAC technician to inspect your system. Based on their findings and recommendations only, you can conclude one way or the other. If repair is possible, the technician will let you know so that corrective action can be initiated. Once that is done, all will be good. Now, the problem arrives when you are told that the compressor will not work anymore. This is when it is truly dead.

Does Dead Compressor Mean You Need A New AC?

When the compressor is beyond repair, people will often tell you that buying a new AC is your only option. Well, that is not strictly true. They advise buying a new AC because it is typically the old air conditioners where the compressor dies. If your unit is more than 10 years old, it is a more cost-effective solution to buy a new AC. As the unit is already towards the end of its useful product life, changing the compressor will just be a burdensome expense. 

If your stars are aligned right, your unit is still new and under warranty. In that case, you don’t have to worry much as the ball is in the manufacturer’s court. Let us now have a look at what your choices are when the compressor dies, and the unit is not under warranty.

1. Replacing Only The Compressor – The compressor is one of the most expensive parts of the air conditioner. If you have stayed abreast of the annual maintenance of the air conditioner, you are in luck. It is because, with the strictly followed maintenance regime, the warranty on the compressor is good for as long as 10 years. However, if you skipped a few in between, sadly, the compressor warranty lapses. If that is the case, and your unit is more than a decade old, replacing just the compressor is a bad idea. As it is, the complete system is almost at the end of its life, and very soon, you will have to upgrade it. When the compressor dies, and there’s no warranty, better to do it sooner than later.

2. Replacing The Condenser Unit – The other option that one has is to replace the entire condenser unit. It is that part of the HVAC unit which is installed outdoors. Housed inside it are the fan, compressor, and condenser coil. Replacing the condenser unit is any day cheaper than buying a new AC. Nonetheless, it is an option that is rarely ever recommended. The indoor unit and the outdoor unit are two halves of one whole. They are a matched set. So, when replacing the condenser unit, one must be extremely cautious that they don’t land up buying a mismatched unit. If someone were to do so, it would be a very costly mistake.

3. Replacing The Condenser And The Evaporator Coil – Replacing the condenser and the evaporator coil is yet another option. Often it is also known as replacing the air conditioner. Usually, under this option, the air handler remains the same, and the remaining system is new. The good thing is that you need not worry about mismatched units anymore, and on top of that, you get a new warranty. This would be a good choice if your existing air conditioner were using “R-22” or “Freon” as the refrigerant.

4. Replacing The Complete Heating And Cooling System – This is obviously the most expensive option and entails buying a completely new HVAC system. Choosing it makes good sense if both your air conditioner and furnace are more than 10 years old. Changing them both in one go is cheaper than trying to spread them out as two different jobs.

Extending The Life Of Compressor

To extend the life of your compressor:

1. Invest in timely annual maintenance.
2. Ensure that the outdoor unit is free of dust and debris.
3. Cut down any bushes, plants, or trees that could be restricting the flow of air.
4. Do not ignore any air conditioner problems.

Aztil Is Here To Help

Dead compressor or not, the professionals at Aztil Air Conditioning are here to cater to all your heating and cooling needs. We are a team of 100+ professionals serving in West Palm Beach, Florida. With us being just a phone call away, you have access to our air experts 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. All our technicians are trained to handle any job concerning your HVAC system. With substantive experience under our belts, we guarantee complete customer satisfaction. So wait no more. Book an appointment today by giving us a call at +1-888-729-8452.

Going to the doctor for an annual checkup is good for your health. Usually, when you visit the medical practitioner, he runs a battery of tests on you to figure out your general health. These tests also show whether you are developing some illness or ailment and if so, you can get due aid before it becomes a full-blown serious issue. So, in the sense of speaking, your visit to the doctor is a preventive action against falling sick. And that is exactly the point behind commercial air conditioning maintenance. It prevents the popping of issues with your cooling system.

What Is Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance?

The term “Commercial AC Maintenance” is used for the maintenance of air conditioners on commercial properties. These places are not meant for domestic use, but business, and include stores and offices. 

Importance Of Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance

The air conditioner installed in the office building or store is a necessity for your business. A cooling unit that is well cared for keeps the clients, customers, and employees happy and comfortable. This stimulates a productive and profitable environment to work. Keeping the air conditioning system running and that, too, efficiently is possible only through maintenance. Thus, it can be deduced that maintenance is critical to the efficiency and lifespan of the HVAC unit. 

Benefits Of Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance

Now that you understand the importance of commercial air conditioning maintenance, it’s time to know its benefits.

1. Identify Issues Before They Become Significant – Prevention is always better than cure. In the case of air conditioners, the best way to achieve “Prevention” is through maintenance. The important thing to understand is that maintenance or tune-up involves many activities covering most problem areas in the air conditioners. It begins with a superficial inspection. After the inspection, the unit is opened to grease moving parts, tighten wires, and inspect all critical components. The system is also checked for wear and tear. If necessary, the worn-out parts are replaced. This is, however, not the end. The entire unit is given a thorough cleaning inside-out to get rid of all dust, debris, and accumulations. In all this, most problem causing scenarios are addressed, ensuring that the unit runs without malfunctioning until the next tune-up.    

2. Increase The Lifespan Of The Cooling Unit – Most commercial air conditioners die early due to neglect. When there is no maintenance, small issues become big and also create other newer problems. By the time the technician arrives to rectify the troubles, things are already on the downslide. By now, no amount of repair will get you a reliable cooling system. The overall effect of this neglect is that the mechanical lifespan of your air conditioner falls. An air conditioner that was to last you 15 years goes belly-up within nine to ten years.

3. Cost Savings – It is normal for air conditioners to lose efficiency year after year. Seldom do business owners realize that, though one may not reclaim all the lost efficiency. Yet, a large portion of it can still be recovered through a tune-up. So instead of letting things slide, one should be attentive towards the maintenance schedule. The efficiency of the HVAC unit translates into cost savings. How? By merely using lesser power to cool the business premises. As units lose efficiency, they consume more and more power to produce the same amount of cooling as before. Hence, there is a steady rise in monthly power bills. On the other hand, with periodic annual maintenance, you can keep the increased power consumption in check. But that is not the only cost-saving. A well-maintained unit rarely ever needs any repairs, and if it does, it’s hardly ever on the costly side. So, that’s like a double bonanza – low power bills and small repair costs.

What Entails A Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance?

Now is the right time to know what to expect during a tune-up. As mentioned above, it consists of a series of activities that ensure the safety and efficiency of the cooling unit. Without much ado, here’s all that goes into it:

1. Superficial inspection of the unit to make sure that there is no apparent damage to it, accidental or otherwise.
2. An inspection of all the system components to make sure that they are in perfect working order. If anything is found lacking, it is either repaired or replaced. Usually, now is when all the oiling, greasing, and tightening is done.
3. The refrigerant or the coolant level is checked. If less, first, the source of its leak is identified and then sealed. Once the refrigerant line is secure, its level is topped-up to the prescribed level.
4. The coils are checked for signs of corrosion and cleaned to get rid of any build-ups.
5. A systems diagnostic check is carried out to verify that the unit is safe to run and working properly.
6. The thermostat is also given a thorough once over to ensure that it is securely held in place and has no loose connections.
7. The ductwork is inspected for leaks. If any are found, they are sealed, or that section of the ductwork is replaced.
8. The outdoor unit is checked for any accumulations or build-ups that could result in restriction of the flow of air.
9. The condenser coils and fins are cleaned along with the cleaning of the rest of the unit.

This is not an exhaustive list of activities undertaken during maintenance. It is just a mention of some of the most important checks done during maintenance. Since the actual catalog of activities is quite long, the maintenance work takes a couple of hours to complete.

Before Closing

Commercial air conditioning maintenance is important so that your office or store has a reliable cooling system. Typically, every air conditioner needs maintenance once a year and that, too, before the summer begins. It is a tedious technician activity that needs technical know-how and precision. So always use professional HVAC contractors for it.

For commercial air conditioning maintenance in West Palm Beach, call the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We are a family-owned business that has been serving the customers for over 30 years. We have a team of over 100 well trained and experienced employees. You can rest assured that your HVAC and business are in good hands with us. We operate seven days a week and 24 hours a day. So anytime is a good time to call for our services. Reach out to us at +1-888-729-8452.

Gone are those days when one could live without an air conditioner. Global warming, together with man’s own need for comfort, has made air conditioners a basic necessity. You would hardly come across a home that does not have a central heating or cooling system. Buying an AC is no child’s play. One needs to plan their finances and budget for purchasing it. An air conditioner is already an expensive piece of equipment, but the dilemma is that it keeps getting even more expensive each year. Have you been wondering why that happens? Well, now you don’t need to wonder anymore. This post is all about informing the buyers of the reasons behind the increasing cost of air conditioning systems.

Reasons Behind The Increasing Cost Of Air Conditioning Systems

The repeated increase in the price of air conditioning systems is, in fact, the culmination of many factors. None of these reasons are unreasonable, rather a simple demand of time. Now, let us have a brief look at why the price of air conditioners is continually increasing.

1. Increase In Cost Of Raw Materials – The primary raw materials used in the making of air conditioners are steel and copper. Across the board, the price of these materials has been on a steady rise year after year. No industry remains untouched with its impact, which filters down to the air conditioning or the HVAC industry as well. The manufacturers now have to pay a greater price to procure the materials. As a result, the manufacturing cost increases, and so does the selling price. With an increase in raw materials’ price, there is no way for the manufacturers to stick to the old price tag. To accommodate the increase in expenses, they increase the price tag attached to the final product.

2. Redesigning Systems Due To Federal Regulations – The Environment Protection Agency or the EPA has been a forerunner in chalking-out laws and regulations that impact the environment. One such regulation has been the phased banning of “Freon” or R-22, the refrigerant used in air conditioners. R-22 is a chlorofluorocarbon which destroys the Earth’s protective Ozone layer. But when it comes to air conditioners, using a different refrigerant or coolant means redesigning the systems. It cannot happen in the blink of an eye. Only through time-consuming research, testing the prototypes, and modifying the manufacturing process allow the change to be incorporated in the air conditioners. All this costs millions of dollars, and someone has to bear that expense. In the end, it is the consumer who bears a fraction of the expenditure through a hike in the price of the AC.

3. Increase In Labor Prices – The cost of living index has been increasing steadily. It is because everybody wants to lead a better and more luxurious life. But the desire to live better is not the only reason. There has also been an increase in inflation, and the demand for better pay directly results from it. The installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC are all labor-intensive jobs. These have now become even more expensive due to improved workman’s compensation. Besides, every HVAC company bears overhead expenses, provides uniform and mobiles to employees, rents office premises, and pays for its utility bills. Together, these expenses go a long way in increasing the cost of air conditioners.

4. Increase In Insurance Rates – The insurance rates for the HVAC industry have increased. The work itself is complicated and also hazardous to both the men and the machine. The increase in rates is primarily to cover the health of the workers while on the job and also the damage, if any, that could be caused to the building or the unit of the customer. Insurance is a necessity which gives the customers confidence in the HVAC company. Also, it is a mandate by the state for the companies to have suitable insurance. The cost of this increase in insurance is reflected in the increased price of the air conditioners.

5. Gas Becoming More Expensive – Over the years, utilities have become increasingly expensive. The price of both gas and electricity has seen a gradual yet relentless surge. This increase has come because of changing regulations, increased safety parameters, and diminishing reserves of fossil fuels. No matter what the exact reason, the utility companies have no choice other than to transfer the burden of expense that they incur to meet the high demand. Making utilities costlier is the most feasible and direct way to do it. The HVAC manufacturing company pays a higher energy bill and offsets that expense by increasing the cost of the finished merchandise, which in this case, is the air conditioner. 

6. Demand For Better Services – Today’s customer is extremely wise, demanding, and informed. They desire 24/7 services, quality products, doorstep delivery, emergency services, and extended warranties. The companies land up paying more to the technicians and other employees in hazard pay, overtime, and late-night charges. All this only to accommodate the needs of the clients. Nevertheless, somebody has to shoulder the expense, which most obviously is the customer.

How To Cut Unnecessary Expenditure On AC?

Just because the air conditioning units are so expensive, one wants to make theirs last for as long as possible. For that, you need to:

1. Stick to the annual maintenance schedule of the AC.
2. Never ignore any signs of trouble.
3. Only allow a trained technician to inspect and repair the AC or carry out the maintenance or installation work.
4. Never fall for the low ball figure schemes as they can cause more harm than good.

Aztil For All The Air Conditioning Needs

Aztil Air Conditioning is a premier HVAC company in West Palm Beach, Florida. We are a family-owned business that has been around since 1981. We are a one-stop-shop for all your HVAC needs. Right from installation to repairs and maintenance, we take care of it all. Our hardworking team of trained technicians strives to ensure your comfort at all times. We are open around the clock, so you don’t have to wait for a convenient time when facing any HVAC issue. Give us a call at +1-888-729-8452, and we shall try to resolve it as soon as possible.

The winter season is fast approaching. Those of us who live in areas with moderate to severe winters would already be thinking about the gas furnace installed in their homes. Its been good so far, with a few intermittent repairs and regular maintenance, the furnace has not been a disappointment. But will the lucky streak continue or its time to get a new one? Many of you will think when the current one is still working, why bother upgrading? That’s a sheer wastage of money that can be put to better use. In case you have made up your mind to upgrade, the tough part is already over. 

The decision to upgrade a working gas furnace is real tough and rests on several factors. Today, we shall try and help you figure out whether it is worth upgrading a working gas furnace or wait until it breathes its last. We shall also have a glimpse of all those things that need to be considered while making a choice.

Is It Worth Upgrading When The Current Gas Furnace Is Still Working?

There are many advantages of upgrading to a better gas furnace. An energy-efficient variant will do more than make up for the unexpected expense. Some of the boons of upgrading are:

1. Improves Heating Inside The House – Your old gas furnace has given you good service in its hay days. Now it is getting old, and the warmth inside the house feels like a mild chill. A little more heat would set the tone right, but alas, it is no more in the aging furnace’s capacity. It served you well initially but not so anymore. Why stick with it if it’s not adding to your comfort at home? This is the best time to upgrade to a more effective furnace that will make your abode wonderfully warm and cozy. With a new furnace in place, you will notice a definitive improvement in the house’s heating.

2. Saves Money With High Efficiency – To upgrade means to buy an improved model. As you upgrade, you gain greater efficiency, and hence, the running costs decline. Your ultimate gains are in the form of reduced utility bills low maintenance costs. Were you to keep using the current gas furnace whose efficiency has declined; you will realize that the fuel bill is steadily increasing. It happens because the older unit uses more fuel to provide the same amount of heating, and even then, sometimes, the warmth is still lacking. Though the new furnace comes with a bigger price tag, it still pays for itself through the savings it provides. 

3. Helps You Serve Your Environmental Responsibility – As a responsible human being, you must see that you do your bit in protecting the environment. The best way to ensure that is by buying highly energy-efficient products. Such products use less fuel and are safer than your existing gas furnace. Using them is a win-win situation for all.

When To Upgrade A Working Gas Furnace?

Upgrading a working gas furnace is usually an idea that one tries to put off for as long as possible. It meets with a lot of resistance due to the expensive nature the decision poses. Nonetheless, there are times when one still needs to make this tough choice. If one or more of the below-mentioned statements are true for your gas furnace, upgrading is on the cards:

1. The Gas Furnace Is Close To 20 Year Mark – if your existing gas furnace is just a year or two short of the 20-year mark, now is a good time to upgrade. Ideally, you should buy a new one and get it installed before the winters truly set in. This way, you will not have to bear any discomfort when you need heating the most. A gas furnace’s usual lifespan is 20 years, so hitting close is a good enough reason to think of a suitable replacement. 

2. Furnace Is Demanding Frequent Costly Repairs – When your old gas furnace starts demanding frequent repairs, the time has come to look at your options. The decision to replace should be obvious if the cumulative cost of repairs increases for each successive year. There is no point spending on costly repairs when heating is also not up to par.

3. Efficiency Of The Furnace Has Dropped Significantly – As the furnace ages, its efficiency declines. Though you can reclaim a part of it through annual maintenance, yet it never goes back to working like brand new. When the efficiency drops so much that you aren’t happy with the warmth inside the house, you should think to upgrade.

4. Safety Is At Risk – The old gas furnace at home has been through years of wear and tear. Over the years, some parts were repaired, and others were replaced. Now even getting its spares is becoming a problem due to that technology becoming obsolete. In such units, breakdowns can often result in sparks that may ignite into flames and carbon monoxide leakage. These occurrences put not just your safety at risk but also that of your family.

Efficiency Of Furnace

The efficiency of a furnace is measured in terms of AFUE or the Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency. The AFUE is the percentage of gas or fuel consumed to produce heat in contrast to the amount lost or wasted in the ignition process. So, if the AFUE is 90%, it means that 90% of the fuel actually makes the house warm while the remaining 10% is lost.

Conclusion

Upgrading a working gas furnace is sometimes a necessity. When choosing a new furnace, pay attention to its AFUE value. The old gas furnaces had efficiency ranging between 56% to 70%, which is quite poor by today’s standards. The new furnace models can achieve an efficiency of up to 98.5%. It means that the new furnace converts almost the entire fuel to heat with minimal wastage. Buying a furnace with high efficiency means lower utility bills and a lesser impact on the environment. If you have an old furnace or one that malfunctions often, it is worth upgrading to a more improved version.

If you aren’t sure of which furnace to buy or if you wish to schedule the installation of a new one, look no further than Aztil Air Conditioning. We are a family-owned business that specializes in all things HVAC. In fact, we are one of the largest air conditioning companies in South Florida. Our team of professional air experts can give your home heating and cooling system the care that it really needs. We are open 24/7 and also provide emergency support services in West Palm Beach. To book an appointment, call us at +1-888-729-8452.

Most homes in Florida have a central cooling system to beat the heat and humidity. Once the cooling is on, and your home is comfortable, the feeling is heaven. In all this, it is natural for one to forget about the thermostat, which is actually responsible for temperature control. The next time you remember about it will probably be when you forgot to switch it off while away from home. Becoming frantic will not do anybody any good. The best that you can do under the circumstances is to return home and switch it off. Installing a programmable thermostat is one way to gain better flexibility in the usage of the thermostat and do away with unnecessary worry. If you are wondering whether a programmable thermostat is right for your home, in Florida or elsewhere, read on.

What Is A Programmable Thermostat?

The thermostat, which can modify the heating and cooling inside the home as per the preset program or schedule, is known as the programmable thermostat. Ideally, with the help of a programmable thermostat, the homeowners can set different temperatures for different times of the day. To make things easier, these thermostats come with some pre-programmed settings.  

Difference Between Traditional Thermostats And Programmable Thermostats

The traditional thermostats were not digital in nature. Neither were they programmable. The homeowner had to move the dial manually to the desired temperature always. Hence, they required constant monitoring and adjusting. The biggest drawback of these thermostats was the very fact that somebody had to manually change the temperature every time it became too hot or too cold. Man, being lazy by nature, usually does not want to get up and fiddle with the thermostat. So he waits until it becomes unbearable before making corrections to the thermostat settings. Unlike the traditional thermostats, programmable thermostats are indeed very versatile. One program can take care of different temperature requirements for the entire day.

Benefits Of Programmable Thermostats

Programmable Thermostats have become quite popular with the masses, and it is primarily because of the several advantages of using them. Listed below are the important benefits of these thermostats:

1. Improved Temperature Regulation – A programmable thermostat gives greater flexibility over control of indoor temperature. The key here is to create or set up a program that automatically increases the temperature during summers, and decreases it during winters when the occupants are away. Alternately, when the residents are in-house, for those times, the temperature should be suitably cool during summers and warm during winters. Similarly, for different times of the day, you can have different settings of temperature on the thermostat. This improved temperature regulation will ensure that your home is always comfortable when you or your family members are home. 

2. Energy Savings – Variable temperature settings for different times of the day, and for times when the house is empty or occupied, reduces energy consumption. Adjusting the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees for at least 8 hours a day will help maximize the savings. The energy savings created by leveraging the thermostat settings can be quite considerable. According to studies, one can save anywhere from 10% to 33% of the power or electricity costs and approximately 6% on natural gas consumption by using flexible settings. 

3. Less Manual Interruptions – The best part of using programmable thermostats is that once you have managed to establish a good program, there is no need for constant manual monitoring and temperature adjustments. The program will take care of it all without any interruptions. Even when you forget to turn it off or lower or increase the temperature, the thermostat will automatically make the adjustments as per the preset. So gone are the days of worrying about changing the thermostat settings while leaving home. 

4. Cutting Edge Features – Programmable thermostats come with some cutting edge features that increase energy savings and also save the day for you. Some programmable thermostats are indeed smart and can be controlled remotely. They also have sensors to gauge when the house is occupied and when not and adjust the temperature based on that data. On most programmable thermostats, you can put a reminder to change the air filters. They also have a child lock safety feature which is very useful for families that have small children. The best feature is the “vacation mode” where the operations of the heating and cooling system are restricted to the barest minimum. 

Is A Programmable Thermostat Right For My Florida Home?

Coming to the important question of the day whether a programmable thermostat is right for your Florida home? If you desire convenience at fingertips and want to gain more savings on your energy bills. In that case, a programmable thermostat is absolutely right for your home, be it in Florida or elsewhere. A programmable thermostat will make your life easier and make it one less thing for you to worry about while going out or on vacation. In fact, according to the latest trend, more and more people are now upgrading to programmable thermostats. When the majority swears by them, it means that they are definitely worth the investment.

Before We Close

Programmable thermostats are definitely the call of the day. Nonetheless, the technology is evolving in leaps and bounds, and something new is always around the corner. In thermostats, the new kid on the block is the “Smart thermostat”. It offers all the functionalities of a programmable thermostat with the additional benefit of remote operations. When upgrading to a better thermostat, you may want to think about them as well.

If you wish to further discuss the matter with experts, call the elite team of Aztil Air Conditioning at +1-888-729-8452. We are a trained team of HVAC experts who serve in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our technicians are well-trained professionals with adequate experience under their belts. They can take care of repairs, maintenance, and replacement of your existing HVAC along with the installation of the new one. To keep you comfortable by managing the health of your heating and cooling system is our top priority. We are available 24/7 so anytime is a good time to contact us.

When the AC stops working, wondering whether to repair or replace it is logical. Now, this is one question that has no straightforward answer as it depends on a number of things. Today, we are going to take you through a series of factors that you need to take into consideration. Once you have taken stock of all these concerns, the answer will be obvious.

Repair Or Replace AC – The Correct Option

Buying a new AC is a substantial investment and requires financial planning. Most families cannot afford to buy a new air conditioner on the spur of the moment as their pockets do not allow such a heavy expense without a budget. Hence, financially, the repair of AC always seems to be a better option because it is cheaper than replacing. Though being cheaper does not automatically make it the right option.

Repair Or Replace AC – Things To Consider

Here is a list of things that one needs to consider while thinking to repair or replace the AC:

1. Age Of AC – The first question that one needs to ask themselves is – how old is the AC? According to the rule of thumb, if your air conditioner is more than a decade old, upgrading to a new AC is definitely on the cards. It is mainly because constant use has taken a toll on the machine due to which the parts have suffered tremendous wear and tear. Additionally, in a span of 10 years, the technology has undergone a sea change. Your aged AC has almost become obsolete. So, sensibly replacing the AC is a viable solution. 

2. Frequency Of Repairs – Some air conditioners demand repairs frequently. It may happen due to oversight in following a strict maintenance schedule, electrical problems, etc. Whatever be the reason, an AC that demands repairs quite often is not a very reliable machine. Hence, replacing may become the call of the day. On the other hand, if the frequency of repairs is low or rare, you can easily get away with timely repairs. The key here is to never ignore a problem. Leaving them unattended can worsen the situation and become the cause of increased frequency of repairs.

3. Cumulative Cost Of Repairs – Most HVAC technicians use the $5,000 rule to decide whether repairing or replacing the AC is the order of the day. According to the rule, multiply the total cost of repair in any given year by the age of the AC. If it exceeds $5,000, replacement makes sense, else not. For example, the total expense incurred on repairing the AC in 2019 is $500, and the AC is 4 years old at that time. So, the relative expense incurred is:

500 x 4 = $2,000 (Hence, repair the AC)

Similarly, if the expense incurred is $800 and the age of the AC is 10 years, the relative expense comes to:

800 x 10 = $8,000 (Hence, replace the AC)

This $5,000 rule is quite handy, and any homeowner can use it as a basis to decide the final outcome.

4. Efficiency Of AC – Over the years, the efficiency of the colling system declines. Sometimes due to ignoring its maintenance needs, and, at others, despite following a strict annual maintenance regime. Though in the second case, the fall will be very slow and gradual. However, in the first instance, the efficiency of the air conditioner will drop rapidly. The drop in efficiency can be felt through a drop in the cooling capacity of the AC and an increase in monthly power bills. When the power bills start increasing dramatically way beyond your expectations, and the cooling inside the home leaves much to be desired, replacing the AC is a better option. On the flip side, if that is not the case, you can go ahead with repairs.

How To Extend The Life Of AC?

Everybody desires to get their money’s worth from the equipment they buy. When it comes to an air conditioner or a central cooling system, things are no different. Extending the life of the AC is in the hands of the user. Surprisingly, AC is not a very demanding machine. It has just 3 core requirements:

1. Annual Maintenance – As a homeowner, make sure that you don’t take annual AC maintenance lightly as it can prevent many troubles from rearing their head. For this very reason, the annual tune-up is also referred to as preventive maintenance. Typically, it should be done before the summers, i.e., anytime during spring. Nevertheless, if due to extenuating circumstances, it cannot be scheduled, you can still get it done anytime during summers. Important is to get it done.

2. Cleanliness – Cleanliness of the unit and the surrounding area, is paramount to its health. If you want your AC to run for long years, its cleanliness should be taken care of. Even regular dusting of the unit exterior and trimming of bushes, plants, and trees growing around the outdoor unit is important. Do sweep up the dust, dirt, and other debris, like stones and fallen leaves around it regularly. These small steps go a long way in extending the life expectancy of your AC. 

3. Timely Address Of Issues – Ignoring any AC issue will not make it go away. On the contrary, it will become a significant problem that will compromise your comfort at home and also the efficiency and longevity of the unit.

In The End

“Repair or replace AC?”. That is indeed a very difficult question. But if you diligently take into consideration the key points mentioned above, arriving at the answer will become an easy task. Even then, if you are in doubt, you can ask your trusted HVAC technician for his viewpoint. Ultimately, every system and situation is different, so the answer will vary from household to household. 

Making tough decisions easy, the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning will always point you in the right direction. To discuss the repair or replace AC option or to schedule maintenance of your heating and cooling system in West Palm Beach, call us at +1-888-729-8452. Our hardworking team of trained technicians will be glad to be of assistance. Our commitment to providing quality service will never leave you unsatisfied. Armed with thorough professional knowledge and years of experience, we are the best choice for looking after your HVAC. So, think no further. If there is something wrong with your AC or furnace, pick up the phone and call us now.

During the scorching heat of summers and humidity playing a relentless battle with your comfort, the central cooling system installed in the home is your only saving grace. But life does not always follow a set plan or pattern. Sometimes a curveball comes flying to throw a wrench in your best-laid plans, such as a broken or malfunctioning air conditioner. Now that is one thing that can make most homeowners break out in a cool sweat. At such times, an HVAC contractor who provides same-day AC repair service in South Florida or elsewhere is a godsend.

Importance Of Same Day AC Repair Service In Florida

There are two main advantages of getting the same day repair service for the air conditioner at home. These are:

1. AC Gets Prompt Attention – Every HVAC contractor and technician will tell you to shut down your air conditioner at the first sign of trouble. That may be a piece of sound advice, but far from practicality, especially when the summer is at its worst. You can maybe try to live without the AC for a few hours, but living without it even for a day is unthinkable. So what you actually land up doing is using the AC even when there is an issue. If the problem is small, it will not complicate matters much. Nevertheless, if the problem is already significant, your continued use of AC can fry the unit. The same day AC repair service in South Florida ensures that your cooling system gets the expert attention that it needs on the same day. So, you needn’t take the unnecessary risk of using the AC.  

2. No Need To Suffer Unnecessarily – When the AC shuts down, one has no choice but to suffer. The suffering continues until such time when the technician comes and rectifies the problem. This could, at worst, take days. Until then, your temper boils, and the body roasts because there is no alternative. However, with the same day repair service, you can rest satisfied that your suffering will end on that very day. This is what an ethical and professional HVAC contractor will always try to offer. Putting an end to the agony, you endure, because of a malfunctioning AC should be their aim.

No Compromise On The Quality Of Service

Some contractors throw big words around to intimidate the customers who have limited knowledge concerning air conditioners. In the name of same-day service, they do a poor job claiming that’s the best that can be done on such short notice. Nonetheless, no homeowner should ever accept anything less than quality service. You are paying for it, and so it is your right. Poor service not just puts your AC at risk, but sometimes, you as well. Never accept anything less than the best.

Why Don’t Some Contractors Offer Same Day AC Repair Service In South Florida?

There are many HVAC contractors who don’t offer emergency repair services or same-day repair service. It happens due to three main reasons:

1. Lack Of Manpower – HVAC business is very demanding and needs investment in premises, tools, and necessary equipment. As a result, most contractors start out small with limited human resources to keep their expenses in check. Such contractors usually work appointment to appointment as they don’t have the manpower to spare who can solely look after same-day or emergency services.

2. Inexperience – Sometimes, the limited experience of the technicians also stops them from offering same-day repair services. Some air conditioning faults are very technical in nature or could be a culmination of different minor issues. At such times, the technician may be required to inspect the unit and brush up his knowledge prior to undertaking the repair, which may take a day or two.

3. Improper Planning – Running a successful business is not everybody’s cup of tea. Yet, the lure of profits is sufficient enough for them to take a dive headfirst into the thick and thin of things. Their lack of professionalism is brought to the forefront through a lack of proper planning. One such area, where it becomes quite apparent, is in offering same-day AC repair services. 

The Key To Choosing The Right Contractor

Only the most professional contractors will ever offer the same-day AC repair services. Others may claim to do so but will fail to deliver when the need arises. Choosing the right contractor is the key to putting an end to the waiting game. Here are a couple of things that will help you choose the contractor most suited to meet your needs:

1. Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
2. Always check their reviews online.
3. Check their credentials as well concerning licensing and insurance.
4. Do not fall for those contractors who entice you with low ball figures.
5. If possible stick to the one who has an office in your local area,

Aztil Air Conditioning Providing Same Day AC Repair Service In South Florida

Aztil Air Conditioning has been serving the customers in South Florida since 1981. Our team consists of over 100 air experts who are professionally trained and well-experienced in handling all HVAC issues. They are highly skilled and will deliver admirably on your expectations. The best part is that we offer the same-day AC repair services to keep you and your home cool. 

We also have 24/7 emergency support services. So there is no need to suffer through an AC breakdown anymore. You can call us anytime. We guarantee top-notch services irrespective of the time of the day. Additionally, our experts will always inspect your unit to identify any other potential problems as well. Looking after your comfort, by ensuring that your heating and cooling system works efficiently, is our uppermost priority. We are just a phone call away. Give us a call at +1-888-729-8452 and we shall be happy to help you.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may not always be in front and center of your eyes, but that does not mean it serves no purpose and requires no care. The outdoor unit of the AC is known as the compressor unit, and it is an integral part of your AC. It pulls in the air from the atmosphere to draw away heat and cool your home. The operating efficiency of the outdoor unit depends, to a very large extent, on its cleanliness. Since the compressor unit is always installed outdoors, it is normal for dust and debris to accumulate around and over it. Keeping the outdoor air conditioning unit free from debris should, therefore, be every homeowner’s top priority.

Why Keep The Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit Free From Debris

The dust and debris accumulating over and around the compressor unit restrict the flow of air over the condenser coils that are inside. As a result, it fails to draw away the absorbed heat and provides insufficient cooling inside the house. Keeping the unit clean is the only way to ensure that the air moves freely through it. 

How To Keep The Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit Free From Debris

Now that you know why it is necessary to keep the outdoor unit clean, let’s see the different ways in which one can achieve this purpose.

1. Do Not Allow Shrubs And Trees To Grow Around It – Trees and shrubs growing in close proximity to the condenser unit are often the biggest cause of accumulations. Dried leaves and twigs along with broken branches collect around the outdoor unit forming piles that restrict the airflow. A good practice is to ensure that there are no plants, shrubs, or trees growing around the AC unit. If there are any, you would want to keep them short and trim so that they do not interfere with the working of the air conditioner. You can either do this yourself or ask your gardener to maintain them.

2. Cage It Or Put A Fence Around It – A cage or a fence around the outdoor AC unit not only ensures its safety but also serves the purpose of keeping accumulations at bay. Even windblown trash and other materials will not find its way inside. If they do, it would usually be in small quantities and not large enough to cause any harm or damage. Nonetheless, it does not mean that if a cage or fence is set around it, you can go back to ignoring the outdoor unit. It just means that the homeowner does not have to worry about cleaning it constantly. You can simply follow a once a quarter cleaning schedule, which would otherwise have been monthly.

3. Regularly Clean The Unit – Make a routine of cleaning the outdoor unit. Please don’t wait for it to become filthy before taking action. Regularly cleaning the unit means that it will never get dirty enough to hamper the smooth functioning of the air conditioner. Being proactive will hold you in good stead and allow you to enjoy the cool confines of your home. Keeping the outdoor AC unit clean is very easy. All you need are a few dry rags and a brush with soft bristles. Use the brush to gently dust the exterior of the unit along with the fins and use the rags to clean the loosened dust. Always switch off the power supply to the AC prior to undertaking its cleaning.

4. Covers – During the season, you can use PVC screens coated with polyester mesh to keep leaves, grass clippings, and trash out of the outdoor unit. Similarly, during the off-season or at that time, when the AC is not in use, you can cover the unit with a water-resistant fabric. It provides comprehensive protection to the condenser unit.

5. AC Maintenance – As a part of the air conditioners maintenance, the outdoor unit is inspected. Along with an intensive once over, it also gets a professional cleaning. This cleaning is important because it thoroughly cleans the unit, which is something that homeowners cannot do. At best, the homeowners can just give it a basic superficial cleaning. Only professional HVAC technicians have the know-how and tools to give the condenser unit a proper cleaning. So give due importance to the AC maintenance or tune-up schedule. Don’t skip on it.

What Happens When The Air Conditioning Unit Is Not Kept Free From Debris?

As we mentioned above, when there is dust inside the unit and accumulations around it, the flow of air becomes, at best, sluggish or restricted. Now think of your AC as the home’s breathing mechanism. When it cannot breathe freely, it is bound to develop problems. These problems manifest themselves in different ways, like:

• Uneven cooling
• Poor flow of air indoors.
• Freezing of the coils.
• Overheating of the system.
• Frequent tripping of the circuit breaker.

None of these occurrences are good for the well being and longevity of your home’s cooling system. At worst, they can make your air conditioner unit go belly up in the middle of the season. Now that is a completely unacceptable thing.

Conclusion

Though cleaning may sound like a regular and not so important job, it is entirely the opposite. Keeping the air conditioning unit free of debris is very important if you don’t wish to spend on unwarranted repairs and replacement. A regular cleaning schedule will keep the cooling unit humming in pleasure. In spite of that, one needs to adhere to the annual maintenance schedule, so that the unit gets a proper examination and professional cleaning.

Your air conditioner is an expensive investment. Keeping it in good health through timely repairs and maintenance is a wise choice. If you wish to schedule an AC tune-up or repair, call the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We are an elite team of professional air experts, serving in the West Palm Beach area. Our aim is to ensure the well being of your heating and cooling system. We also offer 24/7 emergency services so you don’t have to suffer anymore. To book an appointment call anytime, at +1-888-729-8452.

The weather in Florida is such that one cannot live without the air conditioner. When a machine runs for so long, it suffers tremendous wear and tears. As a result, the need for repairs arises from time to time. To keep the cost of repairs low, all homeowners must ensure timely upkeep and maintenance of their units. Despite tune-up, some AC problems still crop up, but these are usually nothing major and can be handled with relative ease. 

Common Air Conditioning Repairs

Here are some extremely common problems that you may face with the air conditioner in your home, and it is always good to know how to handle them.

1. Clogged Air Filters – Air filters of the HVAC system trap the impurities floating in the air to make it clean and pure. Over time, the deposits become heavy and clog the filters. When that happens, it seems as if the cooling in your home is always lacking and not up to the par. If ignored, it can lead to overheating of the unit and its subsequent shutting down.

Repair Option – When the air filters become very dirty, the only feasible option is to replace them with new ones. Ideally, one should not wait for them t become completely clogged before replacing them. A more desirable routine is to change them every month to ensure the efficiency of the AC.

2. Thermostat Display Off – The thermostat controls the temperature settings and, in turn, the running of the AC. Sometimes its display goes blank. Mostly it happens because the batteries in the thermostat die out and kill the display. In some other cases, the culprit could be a loose wire connection.

Repair Option – In the case of dead batteries, switching them out with new ones will bring back the display on the thermostat. If that does not work, call the HVAC technician because there is a slight probability that there is a loose wire connection which he can take care of.

3. Low Refrigerant Level – In an air conditioner, cooling happens due to the refrigerant or the coolant that flows through the evaporator coils. With age and constant use, the refrigerant line develops holes or cracks from which it flows out. When that happens, the cooling efficiency of the AC declines.

Repair Option – Before the refrigerant can be topped up to the requisite level, all leaks in the refrigerant line need to be fixed. Only a trained HVAC technician can do both the jobs suitably. So, when the AC is running low on refrigerant, always call your local HVAC technician to carry out the repairs.

4. Blocked Condensate Line – The drain line or the condensate line dispels all the moisture extracted from the air to the outside of the house. Sometimes due to accumulated dust and other debris, the drain line gets clogged. As a result, the water starts dripping indoors or forms wet spots on the walls. Any dampness inside the house is a cause for concern as it can lead to potential mold growth.

Repair Option – If you are reasonably competent in small scale DIY projects, cleaning the condensate line can be done by the homeowner. All you need is a wet-dry vacuum cleaner and some rags. Expose the drain line by opening the front panel. Soak up the collected water in the drip tray with rags. Finally, use the vacuum cleaner to suck out the stuck blockage. Once done, replace the panel, and the repair work is done. You are now all set to enjoy the coolness of your home without worrying about any kind of water damage. 

5. Bad Capacitor – The work of the AC capacitor is to charge and initiate the AC motor. When the capacitor goes bad, the system may not cycle on and off as before. Sometimes it may not start altogether or may develop the problem of “hard starting”. These situations are undesirable as they either add to the power bills or spoil your comfort level at home. 

Repair Option – When the capacitor becomes faulty, replacing it is the only option. Again this is a job for the HVAC technician as it involves working with electrical connections.  

6. Frozen Coils – Freezing of the evaporator coils is a common problem. Usually, it happens when there is restricted airflow, and the coils become too cold. At such times the moisture extracted from the warm air freezes and becomes ice. The ice build-up increases continuously and becomes noticeable. The result of the ice build-up is that the supply registers start blowing either warm air or none at all.

Repair Option – One way to take care of the frozen evaporator coils is to switch off the AC and let it thaw on its own. The other method is to switch off the cooling, but keep the fan running so that the warm air melts the ice. If the condition does not persist, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Nonetheless, suppose ice formation happens again. In that case, you should call the AC technician to figure out the cause and carry out repairs.

7. Tripped Breaker – The breaker to the air conditioner may trip due to a short circuit or a power surge. Normally, we don’t pay attention to the circuit breaker, instead, assume that something is wrong with the AC. in this case, it may or may not be an AC problem.

Repair Option – If the circuit breaker trips due to a power surge, pushing it back to the on position will get the air conditioner working normally. On the other hand, if the trip happens due to a short circuit, it is best to call the technician, as the short circuit’s source and cause need to be identified first. Once the problem is known, the technician will conduct suitable repairs to correct the anomaly.

8. Fan Troubles – There are two fans in the air conditioner. One fan blows the indoor air over the evaporator coils. In contrast, the other blows air over the condenser coils to banish the absorbed heat. Sometimes these fans slow down or stop working completely due to lack of lubrication, faulty motor, or accumulation of dust and other materials. It results in poor airflow, which, in turn, causes overheating of the unit and sometimes even compressor failure.

Repair Option – Routine maintenance of the AC is the best repair option in this case. During the maintenance, both the fans are thoroughly inspected. If any shortcomings are found, they are addressed there and then.

In The End

Routine maintenance of the AC is the surest way to ensure that the cooling system works without any trouble, even on the hottest days. Despite that, there will be some times when it starts giving indications of trouble. That is the time when air conditioning repairs become essential, At first sight of these indicators, call the HVAC technician. The life and performance of your home’s cooling system depend upon it.

Residents of West Palm Beach need not look further than Aztil Air Conditioning for air conditioning repairs. We take care of everything from installation and repairs to maintenance. To book an appointment, call +1-888-729-8452.

Every consumer wants those electronic products that give the best performance with minimum energy consumption. In other words, they desire energy-efficient equipment. Such devices not only keep your power bills low but also reduce your carbon footprint. So it indirectly helps you serve your environmental responsibility. Energy-efficiency is measured in terms of SEER ratings. Today, we shall enlighten you about every aspect of it.

What Is SEER?

The concept of SEER was given by AHRI or Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. SEER is an acronym that stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a metric term that calculates the energy efficiency of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system by dividing the cooling output with energy consumed. In other words, it measures the amount of cool air generated for each unit of power consumed.

For better understanding, in cars, we study the mileage or the miles per gallon that it gives to know how efficient it is. Similarly, in air conditioners or HVAC systems, we study the SEER rating to know how well it performs in relation to power consumption. The modern air conditioning systems usually have a seer rating between 13 to 21.

Are There Air Conditioners With Less than 13 SEER Rating?

If your current air conditioning system is more than 10 years old, the chances are that its SEER value is around 8 or 9 SEER. It is because, at that time, not much stress was given on energy efficiency.

In a nutshell, the modern air conditioners are any day more efficient than their older counterparts as they have a higher SEER rating.

SEER Rating Is A Maximum Rating

The SEER is always a maximum rating. Let us try and understand this with the help of an example. Say your AC has a rating of 16 SEER. It means that the unit’s rating can go as high as 16 SEER, but it is not always so.

For ease of understanding, remember we spoke of the car mileage above? The car does not always give that mileage, but that is the maximum it can give. The next time when you are in the market looking for a new cooling system, keep in mind that the SEER just represents the maximum saving the system can render and will not always function that efficiently.

Minimum SEER Requirement

Starting in 2023, all new residential HVAC systems in the United States of America will have to adhere to the new minimum energy efficiency standards. According to the new standards, in the northern part of the US, the residential systems should not be less than 14 SEER (which was 13 SEER previously). The southern part of the US will have to meet a minimum of 15 SEER standard (which was previously 14 SEER).

Higher The SEER Rating Costlier The Unit

As the SEER rating improves or becomes higher, the cost of the AC also increases. Many people will advise you to buy an AC with the highest SEER rating. According to them, it will pay for itself in terms of savings in energy bills within a couple of years. But this statement is not true. It is because, as we mentioned above, the SEER rating is a maximum rating, and your AC will not always work to deliver the same. So, if the SEER is, in fact, a variable figure with the maximum limit defined, one can never be sure when it will pay for itself through energy savings. 

Energy Savings For Different SEER Ratings

Below is the expected savings in energy for different SEER ratings in air conditioners:

1. 13 SEER – 38%
2. 15 SEER – 47%
3. 16 SEER – 50%
4. 18 SEER – 56%
5. 20 SEER – 60%
6. 21 SEER – 62%

Noticeable is the fact that the energy-saving between two consecutive SEER values is not very high. But if you skip even one in between, the difference becomes worth a second thought. Hence, if you are looking to upgrade, try skipping at least one SEER level and buy the next one to generate justifiable saving opportunities. 

So What Is A Good SEER Rating?

Now we come to a very important question, and that is – What is a good SEER rating? Yes, 13 is the minimum and 21 the maximum, with so many in between, but those are just the maximum readings. The truth is that the performance of the AC will not always be the same. Therefore, which one should one buy? Well, according to the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning 16 SEER is a good compromise. It will give you a good boost in terms of energy bill savings without a heft price tag attached to it. It’s a win-win situation where you get the best of both the worlds.

Factors That Determine The Actual Efficiency Of The AC Unit

As we mentioned, the SEER depicts the maximum level, but in actual, the performance of the air conditioner is variable. The factors on which the actual efficiency of the cooling system depends are:

1. Size of the house.
2. Condition of the present ductwork.
3. Quality of insulation.
4. The local climate in the area.
5. The maintenance schedule followed by the homeowner for the AC.

Towards The End

In the United States alone, half the energy bill of any home consists of just heating and cooling costs. With the cost of living increasing in leaps and bounds, one needs to think of creative ways to lower expenses. Buying an AC with a good SEER rating is one way of ensuring a reduction in the power bill without compromising on your comfort at home. Hopefully, with the awareness gained from the above discussion, you will now be able to choose an air conditioner with the appropriate SEER rating easier.

If you still have any queries or concerns, feel free to contact the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. You can reach us anytime at +1-888-729-8452. We are open 24/7 and will be glad to be of assistance.

The air conditioner in your home is an extremely complex piece of machinery that consists of many moving and stationary parts. Working in tandem, together as a whole, they make your home cool and comfortable. One very critical component of the AC is the “Compressor”. In a nutshell, until the compressor works, your house will not cool. So, today, we shall try and learn more about the compressor and, more importantly, what it does in the air conditioner. 

Where Is The Compressor Located?

In a split air conditioner, which is the most commonly found air conditioner in homes, the compressor is located inside the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is also known as the condenser unit. It is usually found at the back or on the side of the home.

What Does Air Conditioner Compressor Do?

In order to learn about the compressor’s function, one first needs to know more about the cooling process and all that it entails. The AC cools your home by extracting heat from the air and sending it over the cold evaporator coil to cool it even further. This cold air is then circulated throughout the home. The liquid refrigerant in the evaporator coil cools the air and changes into a gas. The gas is then carried out to the condenser coils, where it once again changes form and becomes liquid. This cycle is repeated continuously.

Now let us see what function the compressor performs in this cooling process. The compressor performs the vital task of carrying the refrigerant between the two sets of coils and changing its form as needed. It is powered by a motor to perform this crucial function. When the motor runs, the compressor transforms the refrigerant into a high-pressure gas, which is forced into the condenser coils where it releases heat and becomes liquid. Post condensation, the liquid refrigerant is again redirected into the evaporator coils to absorb heat, and the cycle continues.

Types Of Compressors

There are usually two types of compressors used in an AC. These are:

1. The Reciprocating Compressor – The reciprocating compressor has a motor like any vehicle. It has both a piston and a cylinder. There is an external source of power that compresses the refrigerant enclosed in the cylinder. This compressor can be open type, semi-hermetically sealed, or hermetically sealed.

2. The Scroll Type Compressor – The scroll-type compressor consists of two entwined scrolls or tubes enclosed in a casing. One of the tubes is stationary or fixed, while the second one orbits around the fixed tube. Together the two scrolls provide compression. The shape of these scrolls may incorporate a hybrid curve, an Archimedean spiral, or an involute.

Maintenance Of Compressor

Since the compressor is such an integral part of the cooling system, it requires proper and timely maintenance. Nonetheless, it is not a task to be undertaken by the homeowner. Only an HVAC technician can carry out proper tune-up of the compressor. The technician will inspect it for any apparent damage or fault. He will also ensure that the compressor pads are in top shape so that there are no electrical issues. Ideally, the compressor maintenance is done at the same time when you schedule the maintenance of the air conditioner. The best time for its maintenance is the spring season.

Compressor Glitches

The AC compressor has many moving parts. Due to continuous use, wear and tear of these parts are but natural. As a result, compressor problems are also common. Timely annual maintenance is one way to minimize their occurrence. Yet sometimes, in spite of all due care, they still arise. Some common compressor malfunctions are:

1. Noises Coming From The AC – Banging and clanking noises can be heard when there is a loose or broken part in the compressor. Hissing and bubbling sounds are heard when there is a coolant or refrigerant leak.

2. Hard Starting – “Hard starting” refers to the situation where the compressor struggles to cycle on or off, as it ideally should. Typically, this happens when there is some electrical fault in the compressor.

3. Insufficient Cooling – Sometimes, the compressor problems manifest themselves in the form of reduced cooling. So for the same temperature setting, your home still feels warm.

Repairing The Compressor

When the compressor malfunctions, you have just two options – repair or replacement. Though the options are limited, yet the correct guidance can only be given by the HVAC technician. It is because what you assume to be a compressor problem may not necessarily be so. It could be a fault elsewhere in the unit. The technician will first carry out a thorough inspection of your heating and cooling system and then advise on the best course of action. Depending on the gravity of the problem, the age of your system, and possible repair options, the technician will give you the best recommendation.

Tips To Keep The Compressor Healthy

Couple of things that every homeowner can do to minimize compressor problems are:

1. Ensure regular annual maintenance of the AC.
2. Change the air filters every month.
3. Maintain basic cleanliness around the outdoor unit.
4. Never ignore any unusual sounds or happenings in context to the AC.
5. Only allow a trained technician to carry out repairs and maintenance on the AC.

Before We Close

The compressor is the very heart of the cooling system installed in your home. It performs the important work of compressing the refrigerant so that the AC can cool your house desirably. In the event that there is a suspected problem with the compressor in particular or AC in general, only allow a professional technician to inspect it and carry out repairs.

If your AC is acting up and you think it may be a compressor issue, call the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. Our team of elite technicians is professionally trained to conduct repairs and maintenance of your HVAC. To book an appointment, call us at +1-888-729-8452.

When you see black dust around the air vents, you are bound to wonder whether it is normal or something to be concerned about. Obviously, hygiene and safety are a top priority, so one should never take chances with them. Anything which was not there earlier and has now appeared should be a cause for concern. The black duct around the air vents is probably:

1. Soot from the fireplace.
2. Dust or dirty insulation.
3. Mold spores.

Soot, dust, and dirty insulation are not major causes of concern. Nevertheless, since they are darkening your walls, they should be cleaned and their source eliminated. Mold spores, on the other hand, should never be taken lightly because they are detrimental to your good health. Today, we shall discuss all three types of black dust and understand how they can be controlled to maintain the hygiene and aesthetics of your home.

Soot From Fireplace

When wood burns, it produces a black powdery or flaky substance called soot or ash. When the AC is running, it sucks air from the house, cools it, and sends it back inside your house. Invariably, the soot suspended in the air gets sucked into the ducts, and out it comes from the vents. Usually, soot around the vents can be seen during the colder season when many homeowners burn logs in the fireplace to get more cozy and comfortable.

To get rid of soot around the air vents upgrade to an air filter with better MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. It is a measure of the contaminants that a filter can catch. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter. Mostly, homeowners prefer using air filters with a MERV rating between 8 to 10. Though these filters are good, they fail in capturing the smaller soot particles. An air filter with a minimum MERV rating of 13 will do an admirable job of trapping the soot particles and preventing them from recirculating.

Dust And Dirty Insulation

In any home, a large expanse of the ductwork runs through unconditioned spaces like roof space or attic, and at the back of the walls. In such places, the dust of every kind and dirty insulation can be found in abundance. Also, leaks or holes in the ductwork of a home are a common occurrence. As a result, dirt and dirty insulation gets pulled in and blows out through the vents creating black dust-like deposits around the air vents.

To annihilate such an occurrence, first and foremost, identify all the sources of leaks in the ductwork and seal them. Those ducts that are beyond repair should be replaced, and finally, get your home ductwork cleaned professionally at least once in every 5 years. Doing so will keep the ducts clean and in top shape.

Mold Spores

Now, this is one problem that can severely impact your health and that of other family members as well. Under no circumstances should you ignore the presence of mold in your household. When one breathes in air laden with mold spores, it causes:

1. Difficulty in breathing.
2. Bouts of coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.
3. Irritation of throat.
4. Lung infections.

In some cases, mold spores can also cause skin ailments and irritation of the eye.

Mold requires dampness, dust, warmth, and darkness to grow and thrive. The air conditioning system of any home naturally fulfills all these four requirements. Dampness comes from the moisture that it extricates from the air, dust from the dirty air, warmth from the unconditioned spaces, and darkness because sunlight cannot permeate it. Hence, mold growth near the AC and ductwork is very common.

Eradicating mold from home and preventing its future formations is a tricky business. After confirming the presence of mold through a lab test, the first order of business is to get the ductwork cleaned by a professional duct cleaning service. Now that the ducts are clean, you need to take steps to maintain healthy humidity levels inside the house. For this, use appropriate temperature and humidity settings on the thermostat. If necessary, install a whole-home dehumidifier. Additionally, don’t ignore water leaks anywhere in the house. Last but not least, keep your home clean.

Tips To Prevent Mold Formations

Taking steps to prevent mold formations is a more proactive step. Instead of waiting for the mold to grow and then cleaning it, it is best to avoid it altogether. Here are a couple of things you can do to ensure the same:

1. Ensure proper annual maintenance of your heating and cooling system.
2. Regularly change the air filters of the HVAC system. Ideally, they should be replaced every month or at least every quarter.
3. Make sure that the drip pan has no leaks.
4. The drain line should be free of all blockages.
5. The insulation inside the air ducts should be of good quality irrespective of the place from which it passes.
6. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms.
7. Open the windows from time to time to ventilate your home and improve the circulation of air.

To Summarize

Black dust around the air vents does not always mean mold. The only way to confirm that it is not mold is by testing, which only a mold remediation specialist can do. If it is indeed mold, under no circumstances should you try to clean it on your own? Mold is harmful and needs to be dealt with care. Mold specialists are properly equipped to take care of it on your behalf. At your end, you can follow the tips mentioned above for preventing mold formations.

If you live in West Palm Beach and wish to schedule the annual maintenance of the HVAC, contact the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We can be reached anytime at +1-888-729-8452. You can also give us a call if you have any queries or concerns. We shall be happy to assist you in any capacity we can.

Just when you are thinking about beating the heat in the cool comforts of your home, the AC stops working. There is no bigger mood spoiler than an air conditioner that does not cool the house. It becomes even more unbearable when the weather is not only hot but also clammy. So figuring out what is wrong with the cooling system and getting it repaired becomes a top priority. In a large number of cases, the problem lies with the compressor and the AC fan. Today, we shall help you figure out the probable causes of why your fan and compressor are not running. 

Understanding The Compressor

To know the problem with the outdoor unit or the compressor unit, one first needs to understand how it works. Once you understand the basic concept, diagnosing the problem becomes easier.

The AC consists of two fans. The one in the inside unit is tasked with the function of blowing cold air into your house. While the second one, which is on the outer side or in the outdoor unit, is responsible for blowing air across the coils to remove heat from the air. Even if one of these fans malfunctions or stops working, the cooling capability of the AC suffers.

How To Know Whether The Fan Is Working Or Not?

Figuring out whether the fan in the compressor unit is working or not is relatively easy. All you need to do is switch on the AC and take a stroll outside to where the outdoor unit is installed. If you hear a soft humming sound and see the fan blades moving, it means that the fan is working. However, if you hear the hum but can’t see the blades of the fan move, there is probably a capacitor problem.

What Could Be Wrong If The Compressor Fan Is Not Working?

If the AC compressor fan is not working, these could be the probable problems:

1. If the compressor is working but not the fan, it is indicative of either motor or capacitor failure.
2. If there is no sound to indicate that the compressor and fan are working, it points towards a break in the power supply or a faulty compressor contactor.

When Both AC Fan And Compressor Are Not Working

It may seem that you are doomed when both AC fan and compressor refuse to work. Take a breath because things are not always as dire as they look. Here are two possibilities that could prevent the AC fan and compressor from working:

1. No Power – As mentioned above, sometimes the problem is relatively simple, and we jump to wrong conclusions. First and foremost, check whether the air conditioner has a power supply or not. It could be a tripped circuit breaker, a fuse that has blown, or probably there is no power supply at all in your area. To rule out the last scenario, all you need to do is check whether the other appliances in your home are working or not. When there is a power outage, your whole house will not get any electricity and so no electrical appliances will work. If that is the case, you can do nothing but wait for the power supply to get back on. But if the other appliances are working, first check the circuit breaker of the AC. If it has tripped, push it back to the “ON” position. Even then, if the AC does not kick in, check the fuse. The AC may have blown a fuse, and if that is so, you will have to replace the blown fuse with a new one.

2. Faulty Compressor Contactor – A contactor is tasked with supplying electricity to various parts of the AC, including the compressor. It controls the flow of electricity to the compressor to cycle it on and off as per the need. In the “up” position, the contactor restricts the flow of electricity. So essentially, it is preventing the AC from stating its cooling process. When in the “down” position, it allows the current to pass through to initiate the cooling cycle. With age and constant use, wear and tear of the contactors happen. As a result, they tend to burn out. Replacing the worn out contactor with a new one is the only feasible solution under the circumstances. Sometimes when they get dirty, they tend to get stuck in one position (which could be either up or down). Cleaning, dirty contactor will solve the problem easily.

Preventing Contactor Issues

As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. The same stands true for HVAC problems. The best way to prevent any breakdowns is by ensuring regular annual tune-up of the heating and cooling system. During the tune-up, the technician tries to prevent any unnecessary faults from developing in the various components of the HVAC system, including the contactors, by trying to catch them at an early stage. This way, no issue materializes into anything serious when you need the cooling of your air conditioner the most.

Do Not Try To Rectify AC Issues On Your Own Until Advised By The Manufacturer

No homeowner should ever try to rectify any AC fault on their own until and unless approved by the manufacturer and the technician. Going against their advice can put not only your safety but also that of your cooling system at risk. Additionally, if your AC is new and still under warranty, going against their word can nullify it.

Concluding Thoughts

If you have seen the regular maintenance of your AC year after year, the chances are that when the AC fan and compressor are not running, it is not a significant problem. However, always call a professionally trained technician to validate the problem and rectify it. Do keep in mind that your AC is an expensive piece of machinery, so you should not experiment with it.

If you live in West Palm Beach and are facing some problem with your HVAC unit, call the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We are available 24/7 and can be reached anytime at +1-888-729-8452.

When the old HVAC becomes hard to maintain and instead of offering relief becomes a headache, it is time to buy a new one. Nevertheless, the purchase decision is not always easy to make, but sometimes you’ve just got to bite the bullet. When that time comes, budgeting is the only way to plan for this necessary expense. It is important to note that many homeowners commit the folly of not taking the cost of HVAC installation into account. 

At Aztil Air Conditioning, we always recommend our customers to budget for installation as well. It is primarily because the cost of HVAC installation depends on several factors and can vary. No one figure that is affixed to it.

Cost Of HVAC Installation

The cost of HVAC installation is by no means cheap. Since it is a sensitive task that needs 100% accuracy, it has quite a hefty price tag attached to it. Add to it the labor cost, and you need to shell out a substantive amount in total as the actual cost of HVAC installation. 

To you to get a fair idea of the installation costs, here is a small table:

Change-Out HVAC Installation Cost

Replacing the old HVAC system can cost anywhere between $4,500 to $9,500. Usually, it takes almost an entire day to complete it. In a change-out, there is no new ductwork installation. It just involves replacing the prime components of the HVAC system. A change-out is recommended only when the existing ductwork is in good condition.

HVAC Installation Cost With Ductwork

Almost 80% of HVAC installations require completely to partially new ductwork. If you are replacing your aged heating and cooling system, the chances are that you will require some sort of rework on your ductwork. Many times the contractors try to avoid it as it is an extremely time-consuming task. Though no professional contractor will ever try to mislead you in this aspect. With entirely new ductwork, the HVAC installation can take anywhere between 3 to 5 days. It also adds to the installation cost. Typically an HVAC installation with completely new ductwork can cost anywhere between $6,500 to $12,500.

Factors On Which Cost Of HVAC Installation Depends

There are several factors that determine the final cost of HVAC installation. The most important ones are:

1. Type Of AC System – There are many different types of ACs available in the market. A few examples are heat pumps, mini-split systems, and variable refrigerant flow systems.  Each has its own set of installation procedures to follow. The more there is to take care of, the costlier is the installation and vice-versa. Add to it other things like zoning, new ductwork, and special add-ons (like UV germicidal Lights and whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier), the cost of HVAC installation increases even further. Depending on the type of the AC system and its inherent peculiarities, the cost of installation varies.

2. Difficulty In Installation – All homes do not have ample space to install the HVAC system. So the installation process becomes more complex. The technician needs to figure out the most suitable place and the manner in which to mount the outdoor unit without compromising its performance and safety. The task is tricky, but a professional contractor will never let one down because they have ample experience in handling such projects. However, complicated installations take more time and hence, are inherently more expensive in nature.   

3. Quality Of Contractor – There are cheap HVAC contractors, and there are expensive ones as well. But who is the right one? The most appropriate contractor is the one who is thoroughly professional, has sufficient experience, holds a good market standing, and stands behind the jobs that they perform. By and large, a contractor who fulfills all these conditions will never come cheap. However, the key is to remember that they will charge only that which is the market standard and nothing more. On the other hand, cheap contractors will not only do a hash job of installation but also put the safety of your HVAC equipment in jeopardy. 

Whom To Call For HVAC Installation?

HVAC installation is not a DIY task. Not only is the equipment costly, but also its installation is no child’s play. Trying to do it yourself may damage the unit and also put you in harm’s way. It is best to book an appointment with a reputed HVAC contractor for the new installation. They are trained to carry out such tasks and also have all the right instruments to perform the job to complete satisfaction. Beware of those contractors who give the lowest quote as a majority of them are out to scam the innocent public. To be on the safer side, employ only that contractor who is licensed to carry out the job in your area.   

In The End

The discussion above makes it quite clear that the HVAC installation does not come cheap. If you don’t budget for it, you may find yourself in a soup when the final bill is presented. Being forewarned, one can plan their finances accordingly. In fact, you can also stagger the installation of the add-ons to keep the installation costs as low as possible. The important thing to remember is to always use a reputed and licensed HVAC contractor for all the installation, repair, and maintenance work. This way, you will never have to second-guess the quality and integrity of the work done by them. The safety of your family and HVAC equipment should be your top priority. Only a professional technician will take it equally seriously.

If you live in West Palm Beach and need a quote for installing your new heating and cooling system, contact the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We provide 24/7 emergency services and can be reached anytime at +1-888-729-8452.

Many homes have both ceiling fans and air conditioners to beat the heat of the hot summer months. Nonetheless, most of us have become heavily dependent on the AC, so we don’t bother with the ceiling fans at all. Yes, the air conditioners are more convenient to use, but their running costs are high when compared to the ceiling fan. Hence, it is natural for you to wonder whether switching on the fan is better or lowering the temperature of the AC when you start feeling warm indoors. 

Ceiling Fans Or AC – Which Is A Better Option?

If you want an honest opinion, the key is to find the correct balance. It is because both ACs and ceiling fans serve the same purpose, but each in its own distinctive manner.

Air Conditioner Most Convenient To Use

The ceiling fan can provide only so much relief from the heat. Unlike that, an AC is a smarter machine. All you need to do is set the desired temperature you want on the thermostat, and after that, just kick back and relax. It not only cools your home faster but also helps get rid of the humidity. You need not worry about switching it on and off. It will cycle automatically to maintain the set temperature in your home.

A fan, on the other hand, cannot control humidity, and you need to remember to switch it on and off every time. With a fan, one cannot afford to be lazy. In the case of an air conditioner, all you need is a smart thermostat, and you can be as lazy as you want. With the set program on the thermostat, you can have different temperature settings for different times of the day. There is no need to manually crank up or crank down the temperature. Now, that is the heights of being lazy and yet comfortable.

Ceiling Fans Lower The Power Bills

Most homes that are centrally air-conditioned spend around 27% to 30% of their power bill on air conditioning. Running a ceiling fan is even more economical than the most energy-efficient AC as it consumes far less power. Consider the fact that even if you leave the ceiling fan running throughout the day, the power that it consumes is way less than running the AC for two hours. So, switching on the ceiling fan is any day a wiser and more pocket-friendly option. However, if you run the fan in conjunction with the AC, you can help you bring in more savings. Research shows that using the ceiling fan and simultaneously increasing the temperature of AC by one degree, you can easily gain savings worth 3% to 6%.

To maximize savings and make the most of your HVAC, you should increase the thermostat temperature by 4 degrees and switch on the ceiling fan. Surprisingly this combination will give the same cooling effect as running the AC at a lower temperature but with tremendous energy savings. With this combination, one can enjoy the same coolness at home and that, too, at a lower cost.

The Big Question Is That Of Comfort

Comfort is a relative term. It is personal and varies from person to person. What is cool for one person may be chilling or warm for another. It depends on your build, type of clothes you wear, activities that you perform while at home, and so on.

The only way to please everyone is by giving them control over the cooling equipment. This does not mean that every member of the household has the liberty to go and play around with the thermostat. It just means installing ceiling fans in every room so that the wind chill effect can be used at one’s discretion. If one wants the room cooler, all they have to do is switch on the fan. If somebody else finds the room too chilly with the fan on, they can simply switch it off.

Clockwise or Counterclockwise Ceiling Fan?

The direction in which the ceiling fan spins has a significant bearing on how cool or warm the room becomes.

When the ceiling fan runs counterclockwise, it blows the air in a downward direction. This makes one feel a slight breeze in the room. Such a setting is most ideal for summers as it helps cool the room faster, and the breeze makes the occupants feel cool and comfortable.

During winters, the fan should run in a clockwise direction as it pulls up the air. So there is no breeze in the room. Due to the clockwise movement of the fan, the cold air rises to the top and is replaced by warm air, so the room becomes warm and cozy in just a few minutes.

Replace Old Fans With New Ones

Fans that are more than 15 years old should be replaced with new ones. It is because old fans lose their efficiency over time and start consuming more and more power. Replacing them can give the homeowners energy-savings worth almost 80%. When you replace your old ceiling fans, you don’t have to buy ones that have a higher speed. As it is, you will be using it in combination with your central heating and cooling system. So all you need is a ceiling fan with reasonably good speed and nothing too fast or too fancy.

Closing Thoughts

Running just the ceiling fan or just the AC, both options are unsuitable. In the first case, you will not be able to get comfortable enough, and, in the second case, your energy bills are going to be very high. The most desirable setup, where you get the best of both the worlds, uses the combination of the two. It will give personalized comfort without any extra cost.

If you have tried the combination of the two and still find your home lacking comfort-wise, give a call to the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. You can contact us at +1-888-729-8452. We serve in the West Palm Beach area and would be delighted to help solve your dilemma.

Routine maintenance of any equipment is the only way to extend its life and keep it in top working order. Your heat pump is no different. It works non-stop throughout the year to keep your home comfortable. Definitely, you need to ensure that it receives care in the form of regular maintenance for optimum operations. Many times we receive calls from clients asking about when to get the tune-up done. So, today’s post is dedicated to answering when and how many times the heat pump tune-up is recommended. 

Heat Pump Tune-Up Frequency

Usually, the air conditioner works during the summer and the furnace during the winter. Hence each of these units needs servicing just once a year, which is before the season sets in. The heat pump is a little different because it performs both the functions of heating and cooling. It works throughout the year and rarely ever gets any resting time. As such, its maintenance requirement is twice more. So, where the regular AC and furnace require an annual tune-up, the heat pump requires a semi-annual tune-up.

The Best Time For Heat Pump Tune-Up

The first tune-up of the heat pump should be scheduled prior to the setting in of the hot season. Spring is an ideal time for it as one can easily stay without cooling for a couple of hours because the weather is still not warm enough. A tune-up at this time will ensure that the equipment is able to cool your home efficiently without suffering any breakdown during the height of the summer season.

The second tune-up of the heat pump should be slated just before the winters. Fall is the best time for it. Again because at this time, the weather is pleasant and you and your family can stay without the warmth without any inconvenience. In turn, this little caring will ensure that your abode stays warm and cozy throughout the winters.

Should I Get A Heat Pump Tune-Up Now?

To err is human. We forget, and there is no shame in accepting it. Some of us have such busy schedules that the heat pump tune-up my get lost in the long list of things to do. So anytime is a good time for a tune-up. The only disadvantage is that you may have to bear a few hours of discomfort and pay a slightly elevated price for the tune-up. Forgetting to get it done on time does not mean that you now have to forgo it all together until the next season. It just means that you may not be able to take advantage of off-season discounts and priority service. 

What Does A Heat Pump Tune-Up Involve?

During the heat pump tune-up, a detailed inspection of the complete unit is conducted. Ducts and filters are checked, and blower and indoor coil are cleaned. The electric terminals are given a once over. If found necessary, the connections are tightened and cleaned. The moving parts are greased or lubricated to reduce friction and make movement smooth. In short, the steps involved are geared towards taking care of all those possibilities that may lead to downtime.

Benefits Of Heat Pump tune-Up

1. Energy Efficiency – As the heat pump runs continuously, it suffers from wear and tear. As a result, its efficiency drops. Though that does not mean you have to accept the fact and live with it. Scheduling timely maintenance of the heat pump is the best way to recover most of the lost energy efficiency. If you pay close attention, it is easy to see that those homeowners who don’t invest in the maintenance of their heating and cooling equipment pay more in terms of energy bills. Compared to them, those who ensure and stick to the timely maintenance schedule have far lower energy bills.

2. Less Downtime – Maintenance is the key to getting the most out of the heat pump. Since most things that can cause downtime are taken care of during the tune-up, there is no fear of unnecessary breakdowns. You reap the benefits of an investment well made and well maintained.

3. No Need For Expensive Repairs – With a proper maintenance schedule, if problems do crop up, they are usually not significant. Minor repairs will have your system up and running like nobody’s business. Expensive repairs are a thing of the past, but for that, the tune-up has to be timely, thorough, and carried out by HVAC professionals.

4. Increases the Life Of The Unit – It’s a time-proven fact that anything that is well cared for has an extended life span compared to that which isn’t. A unit that gets regular tune-up suffers bare minimum wear and tear. Any damage to it is also limited, and so it runs efficiently for longer. Needless to say, maintenance guarantees the safety and longevity of your investment.

Always Get Tune-Up Done By HVAC Professionals

It may seem to you that the HVAC contractors are available a dime a dozen. This is where you are wrong. Professionally trained and licensed contractors are few; the rest are those who are out to scam the innocent public. These scam artists or so-called technicians have a simple plan. They quote a price that is way below what professionals charge. And you land up thinking why to pay more when you can get the same thing done for less. This is exactly what the scammers are banking on. Remember, not utilizing the services of a professional contractor can cause more harm to your heat pump. These mediocre contractors do not have the expertise to handle such specialized equipment. Their ignorance might as well write off your unit.  

If you live in West Palm Beach, Florida, it is time to call the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. Our elite team of trained and experienced technicians will perform a thorough tune-up of your heat pump. To schedule an appointment, call at +1-888-729-8452.

Without the air ducts, the central heating and cooling system becomes virtually worthless. It is because the ducts are responsible for carrying the air to and from the HVAC unit. However, most of us don’t even give a second thought to these very important air ducts…maybe because they are always concealed and not right there in your face. Nonetheless, ignoring them is not good for the air quality in your home. So what is that one thing that you should do to maintain them? The answer is simple – Air Duct Cleaning. 

Today, we shall take some time out to learn the importance of air duct cleaning and the benefits that it brings. 

Why Is Air Duct Cleaning Important?

Air travels through the ducts continuously. Usually, the circulating air carries dust, dander, debris, and other particles. These deposit in small quantities throughout the ducts. Over a period of time, the deposits become large, so much so that the circulating air starts picking up these impurities and making them a part of the indoor air. In this manner, the indoor air quality deteriorates, and your breathing space becomes contaminated. Often it is referred to as indoor air pollution.

You will be surprised to know that EPA or the Environmental Protection Agency considers indoor pollution to be a major concern that is detrimental to the well-being of the residents. When a premier US agency is concerned, so should you be.

To improve the indoor air quality and make the air you breathe more hygienic, air duct cleaning is the only option.

4 Benefits Of Air Duct Cleaning You Didn’t Know

Now that you know how critical air duct cleaning is to the indoor air quality let us briefly look at what other benefits it has.

1. Fewer Allergies – The spring season is most often synonymous with an increase in allergies. It is primarily due to the presence of pollen in the air. This pollen finds its way indoors as well. Adding it to the present combination of contaminants in the home like mold, mold spores, dust, and dander, the environment becomes ripe for causing allergies. Sometimes pests and critters reside in the ducts, and their droppings are picked up by the air passing through. When these become a part of your breathing space, the allergic reactions can be severe. Until and unless the ducts are given a thorough cleaning, there is no way to get rid of the allergens that reside in the ducts and mix in the air you breathe. Once the ducts are cleaned, there will be a drastic drop in the occurrence of allergies and their severity.

2. Gets Rid Of Odors – Every home has a distinctive smell, sometimes it is good and sometimes bad. Rarely do people know that the ducts contribute to how your home smells, to a very large extent. The ducts are usually a thriving space for mold and bacteria. These tend to leave a musty, wet socks kind of smell picked up by the passing air and spread through the house. Similarly, if your ducts suffer from a pest infestation, you are in for a really unpleasant surprise when even one dies. The smell is offensive and permeates your abode, making it tough to breathe without gagging or pinching your nose. Last but not least, cigarette smoke and cooking smells are captured by the particles in the ducts and released into the breathing air. So, smells tend to linger for a very long time. Cleaning the ducts will get rid of all the mentioned menaces and make you home relatively odor-free. 

3. Cleaner Home – When your home was new, it did not need cleaning often. However, as the years have gone by, the frequency with which your home demands cleaning has increased. And even then, within a day or two, it feels as if it is still dirty. This is the story of most homes where air ducts are conveniently forgotten. Basically, what is happening here, is that the moving air picks up the dirt from inside the ducts and deposits it on the various surfaces in the home. The dirtier the ducts, the dirtier your home, and vice-versa. No amount of cleaning will suffice until you get the air ducts cleaned by the professionals. Once all the impurities and particles inside it are removed, your home will become once again.

4. Reduces Power Bills – When the build-up inside the ducts becomes heavy, it restricts the flow of air. So now, your heating and cooling system has to work longer and harder to maintain the desired temperature inside the home. As a result, you will notice a sharp increase in the power bill for no good reason. Essentially, the build-up inside the ducts reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system. Getting rid of the blockage will improve the airflow efficiency and, in turn, the efficiency of your unit. When that happens, the power bills will again come down to normal and acceptable levels.

The Frequency Of Air Duct Cleaning

Fortunately, air duct cleaning is not something that you need to do every year. Getting them cleaned by professionals every five years is a good plan. However, if you reside in an area close to nature or in a place that often faces sandstorms, getting the air ducts cleaned every three years is a better option.  

Whom To Call For Air Duct Cleaning

Air duct cleaning is a job that only professional duct cleaners can perform. Our regular household equipment has neither the power nor the range to go deep into the ducts for proper cleaning. So you need to ask your HVAC contractor for reference and contact professionals for taking care of the ducts in your home.

In The End

Air duct cleaning is a vital part of ensuring that your HVAC system works efficiently. It is also essential to maintain good air quality indoors. Additionally, it serves many other purposes, like making your home odor-free, reducing allergies, etc. So consciously make an effort to ensure that your ducts get the necessary TLC every 3 to 5 years.

When the air conditioning at home doesn’t work, especially during the summers, our first reaction is to panic and start calling the local HVAC contractors. Although there is nothing wrong with that, it so happens that many times the problem is quite small. Some simple steps taken by the homeowners can get the AC working up and again in no time. So, why spend money on the technician fee when you can save it. Though critical here is to remember that you cannot solve all the AC glitches, just a few of them. So when things are out of your scope, they fall in the category of problems to be dealt with by a trained HVAC technician. However, today we are dealing with the first reaction when the AC doesn’t work, what should you do next.

What Should You Do When AC Doesn’t Work?

Here are a couple of things that you can do to try and get your AC functioning. If none of these work you will have to call the air experts.

1. Check The Power Supply – Before jumping to any conclusions, check whether the other appliances in your home are working or not. For all you may know, the air conditioner refuses to work because there is no power. If the other appliances seem to be working fine, check whether the power source to which the AC is connected has not been accidentally switched off. In homes with young kids, more often than not, it happens to be the case. Flipping the switch to the “ON” position will get your AC working once again.

2. Check The Air Filters – The air conditioner needs to be able to breathe in order to work. Quite often in our busy lives and hectic schedules, we forget to take time out to change the air filters. Over time, the filters trap dust and debris and become clogged. When an adequate amount of air is not able to pass through, the system shuts down. It happens to prevent the overheating of the unit. With clogged air filters, the AC has to work longer and harder to maintain the indoor temperature. It puts the unit under tremendous strain and hence, overheating. To avoid such an occurrence, the air filters should preferably be changed every month. However, if that is not possible, they should be changed quarterly.

3. Have a Look At The Circuit Breaker – There are many reasons that can cause the circuit breaker to trip like power surge, short circuit, overheating of AC, or simply wearing out over time. Essentially, when the circuit breaker trips, it cuts the power supply to the unit. Until you flip it back to the “ON” position, the AC will not start. The key here is to notice whether the breaker trips again or not. If it does, you will have to call the technician to figure out its cause. If the circuit breaker trips repeatedly, it is a sign of a problem severe enough to shut down the unit.

4. Clear The Condensate Line – The condensate or moisture generated by the AC usually drains out through the condensate drain line. However, sometimes due to a blockage in the line, it may not happen. So, whenever such obstruction occurs, the float switch trips and shuts down the air conditioner. It trips to prevent any water damage to the unit because of a spill. You can clear the condensate line by sucking out the blockage using a wet and dry vacuum cleaner. Once done, the condensate or the water will drain out on its own, and the air conditioner is back to its usual working self.   

5. Clear All Obstructions Around The Outdoor Unit – It is always a good idea to check the outdoor unit. As mentioned above, the AC needs to breathe air in ample quantity to work properly. Mostly, since the unit is outside, one tends to ignore its existence. The outdoor unit is usually exposed to the elements of nature to tends to collect dust and other debris. Sometimes bushes may grow around it, cutting off the air supply or leaves from nearby trees may pile over and around it. Either of these scenarios is not good as it prevents the free flow of air. Clearing all the obstructions around the unit may kickstart the air conditioner.

6. Revisit The Thermostat Settings – Someone may have, knowingly or unknowingly, changed the thermostat settings. So you need to revisit and check the current settings on the thermostat. Ensure that it is set to “COOL” and not “HEAT”. The other thing you would want to check is that the fan should be set to “ON” and not “AUTO”. If you still feel that the AC is not working, turn the temperature down by five degrees. It should ideally kickstart the AC. If not, best check the battery level in the thermostat. Change them, if necessary. If none of these hacks work, you may have to call the technician. 

What To Do When Nothing Works?

When none of the above troubleshooting ideas work, you have no option but to call the HVAC technician. Refrain from opening the unit and trying to figure out the problem. The AC is built up of many small parts, and you may accidentally damage one of them. Invariably that will increase the cost of repairs, which may otherwise have been minimal. The AC is not a toy. It is a piece of expensive machinery that demands careful handling by trained and knowledgeable experts.

The Conclusion

There is only so much that you can do to keep your AC running. The one most important thing to do is to see its annual maintenance. Apart from that, you may do just the basic checks, but nothing that requires opening up the unit. If you are still unable to get your unit up and running, call the air conditioning service experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. Our trained and experienced professionals will check out the unit for problems and discuss their findings with you. With your approval, the repairs will be carried out so that you don’t face the problem again. To book an appointment, call us at +1-888-729-8452.

Rarely do we know that insufficient ventilation makes the indoor air quality poor. When homes are centrally air-conditioned, it would seem foolish to let in the fresh air and lose that comfortable environment you created inside. But opening doors and windows is not the only way to improve the air quality inside your home. There are many other ways in which you can achieve the same effect without losing the coolness or warmth inside. So, today, we shall see the top 5 ways to improve indoor air quality. However, before we proceed, let us briefly understand what indoor air quality is and why it is essential.

Indoor Air Quality

The quality of air within a closed structure like a house or a building is called indoor air quality. In actuality, it conveys the physical health and comfort of the people residing in the building. Poor air quality is synonyms with illness and allergies, while good air quality means healthy occupants.

Importance Of Indoor Air Quality

The make-up of the air indoors predominantly decides the health and well being of the inhabitants. The biggest mistake that most homeowners do is assume that the air inside their home is clean and healthy. Pollution can occur anywhere. It is not restricted to outdoors only. Indoor air can have a variety of contaminants like VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), mold spores, dust, dander, pathogens, etc. These pollutants hurt the general health of family members. It usually manifests itself in the form of allergies and recurring illnesses. Therefore, one cannot assume everything is as it should be. Instead, we all need to take proactive steps to ensure that it always remains on the positive side.

5 Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality

Here are a couple of steps you can take to improve the indoor air quality:

1. Change The Air Filters Frequently – Your air conditioner not only keeps your home cool, but it also recycles the air. It has an important part known as the air filters. These filters trap the impurities suspended in the air. However, over time the filters become dirty and are no longer able to snare the particles. When that happens, the indoor air quality starts deteriorating. To prevent such an occurrence, change the air filters at least once a quarter. Even better would be to change them every month. In this manner, your air filters will always work efficiently and keep the indoor air relatively clean.  

2. Indoors To Be A No Smoke Zone – The air inside the home circulates continuously. If any member of the family smokes indoors, the smoke too gets circulated throughout the house. So, it does not matter whether one is smoking in private or not. Cigarette smoke contains numerous chemicals that are hazardous to health. Additionally, there is always the harm of second-hand smoking to the other non-smoking members of the family. All in all, smoking negatively impacts indoor air quality and harms our health. The only way to address the issue once and for all is by making your home a no-smoking zone. When one does not smoke indoors, there is no chance of it becoming a part of your breathing space inside the house.

3. Use Air Purifying Indoor Plants – Most of us use indoor plants to add a dash of green color to the decor and also for their aesthetic value. Seldom do we realize that we can achieve that and much more by wisely choosing the indoor plants. There are many plants that act as natural air filters. They not only pull out contaminants from the air but also do wonders for the home decor. Some examples of such air purifying plants are Aloe Vera, English Ivy, Snake plant, Spider plant, Weeping Fig, and Chinese Evergreen. Next time when you go to the nursery to buy potted plants, keep this little tidbit in mind and choose those plants that serve dual benefits.  

4. Maintain Healthy Humidity Levels – Pathogens and mold, all love high humidity because it provides them the best breeding ground. One way to clean the air inside the home is by limiting the growth of these micro-organisms. This is possible only if we maintain healthy humidity indoors. You can achieve healthy humidity levels by programming judicious temperature settings in the thermostat, addressing all water leaks in the house promptly, and installing exhaust fan in the bathroom. Also, if necessary, one can invest in a good whole-home humidifier or a dehumidifier, as the case may be. 

5. Use Cooking Vents – A large number of air pollutants find their origin in the kitchen. For example, gas stoves usually produce nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. Similarly, while cooking, the smoke that rises contains oil particles and a mix of the spices. In all, these things spoil the air quality. However, you can minimize their impact by opening the kitchen vents, using an electric chimney, or switching on the exhaust fan. The idea is to prevent these particles from becoming a part of the circulating air. Catching them at the source and filtering them out immediately is the best practice.

Tips To Improve Indoor Air Quality

Here are a few handy tips that will further your efforts for healthy indoor air quality:

1. Vacuum the rugs and carpets frequently and try to put them in direct sunlight every few months.
2. Regularly brush your pets so that dander is under control.
3. Try and limit the use of synthetic fragrances indoors. Synthetic fragrances include deodorants, perfumes, room fresheners, strong cleaning agents, paints, etc.
4. When possible, air out your home by opening the windows. If that is not possible, at least allow sunlight to enter your home through the glass windows.

In The End

Indoor air quality solutions are not always expensive. Some of the things are a matter of changing our habits and others about common sense. Together, they make an unyielding team that ensures good and healthy indoor air quality. 

At Aztil Air Conditioning, we believe in empowering our clients with the best indoor air quality solutions. If you wish to discuss the matter further or desire any service for your HVAC, call us at +1-888-729-8452.