Often one hears about the manual and electronic thermostat controls, but very few actually understand how different they are from each other. People who are conscious about energy savings are not the only ones who will gain from this knowledge. All homeowners can significantly benefit if they pay attention to such vital information. If you want the best energy-saving solution for your home, you are precisely at the place that will guide you in the correct direction.

Manual Thermostat Controls

Manual thermostats are one of the oldest thermostat models, which can be seen in some old buildings. They have a thermometer-like unit containing mercury that allows the people to know the temperature in a room. These need to be manually adjusted. Every time you wish to change the temperature, you will have to go and modify the setting to reflect your intention. Usually, these are not very accurate. However, they are still popular because of their relatively low price tag. 

Electronic Thermostat Controls

Electronic thermostat controls are known by many names like digital thermostats and programmable thermostats. As the name itself suggests, these have electronic sensors to gauge the room temperature. Furthermore, one can also program these according to their daily needs so that there is no need to manually change the settings every time you come and go. If your time of leaving and entering the house is more or less fixed, you can program the electronic thermostat to have a fixed temperature when you are in and a different temperature for when you out.

Difference Between Manual And Electronic Thermostat Controls

Now that you know the basic difference between the manual and electronic thermostat controls let’s see what other differences exist between them.

1. Accuracy – Manual thermostats use a mercury thermometer to read the temperature. For close distance, these work fine. But rooms in a home are usually big, so the accuracy of manual thermostats becomes questionable, especially when they are mounted close to a heat-producing source like an oven, etc. Sometimes they even become uncalibrated. Electronic thermostats use sensors to figure out the ambient temperature. These sensors work better than mercury-based thermometers as there are no chances of them becoming uncalibrated. These even read the temperature more accurately as long as you pay reasonable attention to their installation.    

2. Human Intervention – If you want to change the settings on the thermostat, you will have to do it manually every time with a manual one. As against this, an electronic thermostat is programmable. If your routine is predictable, you can program your thermostat to settings most appropriate to the times when you are away from home and when back inside. The best part is that once programmed; there is no need to make any manual changes until there is a break in the routine.

3. Energy Savings – Preset settings in electronic thermostats allow for power savings. It is because even if you forget to change the settings, the program will do it automatically. In manual thermostats, there is no option other than to make the changes each and every time. If you forget to make the modification, the heating and cooling system runs as before and ads to the energy bill. 

4. Battery Indicator – Electronic thermostats have a battery indicator on the display screen itself. It permits the homeowner to keep a tab on the battery level and change it timely. Often, letting the thermostat battery run out disrupts the functioning of your HVAC system. There is no battery indicator on manual thermostats, and in case you don’t remember the last time it was changed, the chances are the only time you will notice something missing is when your heating and cooling system starts acting up.  

5. Air Filter Replacement Indicator – There is a filter replacement indicator on the electronic thermostat. It lets you know when its time for a filter change. There is no such indicator on the manual thermostats, and you have to remember all the basic things regarding the heating and cooling system in your home.

6. Vacation Mode – Probably one of the best features of the electronic thermostat, which does not exist in the manual thermostats, is the “Vacation” mode. It keeps the temperature in your home at a minimal level when you are away. The benefit is that the power consumption by your HVAC unit during this time is minimal. It translates to significant savings in that month’s power bill. 

7. Energy Monitor – Have you ever wondered about the power consumption by your heating and cooling system in different months? If no, you probably are stinking rich and don’t care. If yes, you are a conscientious homeowner who wants to maximize energy savings. Sadly, a manual thermostat does not offer this feature. The good news is that electronic thermostats show you the energy usage in different months. This way, you can plan for more energy savings during the months when the power consumption was high.  

Manual And Electronic Thermostat Controls – Which Is Better?

Clearly, from the above discussion, one can rightly draw the conclusion that between manual and electronic thermostat controls, the winner hands down is the electronic thermostat. To sum up, it is programmable with a plethora of features that help you understand your power consumption and maximize your power savings. With significant benefits like that, it is best to invest in electronic thermostats. So, next time you are looking for an upgrade, you know what you should go for. However, there is a small catch. If your heating and cooling system is a couple of years old, it is best to check with your local HVAC technician whether it is compatible with an electronic thermostat.   

Aztil AC For All Your Thermostat Needs

For more information on thermostats, feel free to contact Aztil AC. Our team of knowledgeable, experienced, and helpful technicians can help you figure out the best comfort solution for your home. We pride ourselves in providing prompt services with lasting solutions. We provide 24/7 emergency services. You can call us at any time at +1-888-729-8452.

If you thought that the air filters trap all the dust and allergens and do not let them pass, you’ve got another think coming. Air ducts happen to be one of the most contaminated areas of your home. Over the years, when left untouched, the level of dust and grime in them increases and, in extreme cases, may even cause blockages. As a result of these blockages, you may find your home at an uneven temperature. The air coming from the blocked vents may be sluggish to non-existent. Most importantly, if these impurities find their way back into your home, they will deteriorate the indoor air quality and put the health of all the family members at risk.

In essence, you need to ensure proper cleaning of the air ducts. But how often should the air ducts cleaning be done? There may be a lot of conflictory information available online, but right now, you are at the most appropriate place to gather the correct set of information. 

How Often Should The Air Ducts Cleaning Be Done?

There is a legitimate association called the National Air Duct Cleaners Association or the NADCA that has determined the frequency of cleaning the air ducts. It is based on their cumulative research and experience. According to them, the air ducts should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. Additionally, if you live with aged parents or grandparents, or if somebody in your home suffers from breathing ailments, you should get the air ducts cleaning done at least once in every 3 years. Air duct cleaning will get your home rid of allergens and prevent the slowing down of the airflow.     

Best Time For Air Ducts Cleaning

The ideal time for air duct cleaning is when the temperatures are still low. In case you are suffering from persistent allergies even inside the house, with all due precautions, it is best to get your air ducts cleaned by professionals. Here are a couple more scenarios in which you can think of duct cleaning:

1. When you are moving into a home where others have already lived, especially if they had pets.
2. When you have got some construction or renovations done in your home.
3. When you are getting a new heating and cooling system installed in an old home.

Signs That Your Home Needs Air Duct Cleaning

Some homeowners get air ducts cleaning done, but some don’t. Of those who get them cleaned, very few would remember when they got it done last. If you don’t know the last time the air ducts were cleaned or if you have never got it done before, here are a few signs that indicate a need for immediate action:

1. When the air flows out of the registers, it leaves behind in its wake floating particles in spite of regularly cleaning the house.
2. If there is, or you suspect there to be a pest or rodent infestation in your home or the ductwork.
3. If you see visible signs of mold in and around the ducts.
4. When there is an unpleasant odor in your home whose origin you cannot pin-point.
5. When there is visible black debris on the outer side of the filters or the vents. These occur only when the indoor pollutants have again become a part of the circulating air.

Can I Clean The Air Ducts Myself

You can superficially clean the air ducts, but no homeowner can do their thorough cleaning by themselves. They are restricted both by the expertise and the right equipment. At best, you can clean the air ducts as far as the hose of your vacuum cleaner reaches. There may be accumulations deep inside which your vacuum cleaner may not be able to reach. Thorough cleaning of the air ducts is possible only through professional duct cleaners.

Why Should Air Ducts Cleaning Be Done By Professionals

Air duct cleaning professionals have not only the right equipment, but also the appropriate knowledge, skill, and gear to carry out thorough cleaning. They use truck-mounted and high-powered vacuum cleaners to suck out all the impurities stuck inside the ducts. Their long hoses can cover the ductwork more extensively and ensure that every nook and cranny is free of any foreign particles.

Benefits Of Air Ducts Cleaning

Air duct cleaning is crucial to maintaining good air quality indoors. Nonetheless, that is not the only perceived benefit of air ducts cleaning. Another lesser-known benefit is getting rid of all the unwanted materials stuck inside the ducts allows free flow of air from and to the heating and cooling system. When the air flows without any barriers slowing it down, the efficiency of the unit is at its peak and puts minimum strain on it. 

Cost Of Air Duct Cleaning 

The average cost of cleaning the air ducts is $35 for one air vent. Most homes have 10 to 15 vents, so the cost of cleaning them lies between $300 to $500. There are a few other factors that govern the final price. These include:

1. Size of the home.
2. Ease of reaching the air ducts.
3. The length and configuration of the air ducts.

Based on these factors, the final price of cleaning the air ducts may vary. There is no one fixed cost that covers all. Every house has its own set of unique challenges, so you may have to pay differently from your neighbor for the same work.

Concluding Thoughts

To sum up, the best time for air duct cleaning is towards the end of winter when the temperatures are still low. The frequency of air duct cleaning varies from home to home. If you have pets, live with aged people, or someone in your family suffers from breathing ailments or allergies, get the ducts cleaned once every three years. If you have got any renovations done to your home, get the cleaning done as soon as the renovations are over. Others can get their air ducts cleaned anywhere between 3 to 5 years. Though try not to exceed this time period. Remember, air duct cleaning will help you and your family members breathe easier even if no one suffers from allergies of any kind.  

To schedule air duct cleaning in West Palm Beach, Florida, contact Aztil AC at +1-888-729-8452.

The thermostat is your link to controlling your heating and cooling system. The better you program it, the better the comfort level indoors. In spite of everything that you do, there may be a time when you realize that the display on the thermostat is blank. When that happens, you are in for a spin. Thermostat blank does not mean that it is a lost cause now. The could be many reasons why the display has disappeared.

Thermostat Blank – What Does It Mean?

Thermostat blank under usual circumstances means that either the power to it is cut or the batteries have died out. In extreme cases, there is a small possibility that the thermostat has died out on you and needs to be replaced.

Thermostat Blank – Most Probable Causes 

Here is the list of most probable causes that can make your thermostat screen go blank.

1. Dead Batteries – If there is no common wire on the wall, the thermostat is mounted on, it means that your thermostat runs on batteries. Quite often, people are not aware that their thermostat needs batteries to power the display screen. Due to ignorance and sometimes due to sheer forgetfulness, they don’t change them until the screen goes completely blank. Typically, the thermostat uses 3-volt lithium batteries or AA alkaline batteries. Best check which ones your thermostat uses before purchasing them in an adequate number. 

2. Loose Wiring – The wire with which your thermostat is hooked could be loose. Nothing startling about that. Its a fact and can happen due to a variety of reasons. For example:

1. It was nor attached firmly in the initial stage itself.
2. The rodents have chewed through the wiring.
3. Strong vibrations in the form of heavy traffic or earthquake could have shaken them loose.
4. The children could have pulled the connecting wire accidentally.

No matter what the reason, your HVAC technician can rectify the problem and get your thermostat up and running by fixing the loose wiring.

1. Tripped Circuit Breaker – Loose wires coming in contact with each other can cause a short circuit and trip the circuit breaker. Sometimes even a power surge can do the same. When the circuit breaker trips, it cuts the power supply to the thermostat, causing the screen to go blank. Check the electrical box to see if the circuit breaker has tripped. If it has, flip it back on, and that should sort the thermostat blank problem and light up the screen. 

2. Blown Fuse – If everything in the electrical box looks ok, that is, if the circuit breaker has not flipped, there is a slight possibility of the thermostat having blown a fuse. Take out the fuse and check the fuse wire. If it is broken or melted, you need to replace the fuse. However, before replacing the fuse, check with your HVAC technician about the strength and capacity of the fuse that you need to replace it with. Many times the fuse wire is weak and not of appropriate strength to accommodate the power need. Consulting with your HVAC technician will help you buy the best-fit fuse.

3. Screen Resolution Not Sufficiently Bright – The programmable thermostat allows you to fix the display screen brightness. You may have dimmed it and forgotten all about doing so. Else someone else may have done it without telling you. In either case, brightening the screen resolution will make it easy for you to see and read the display. At times, the thermostat may also dim the screen at particular times of day to save power or extend battery life. Again, readjusting the screen settings will take care of the problem. 

4. Furnace Door Open – Some thermostats are very sensitive to furnace doors that are left open. It may not always be a possibility, but there is no harm in checking it out. Check your furnace door, if it is, in fact, open or not tightly shut, it may have triggered the screen of the thermostat to blank. Push the door closed and ensure that it is firmly shut. Once that is taken care of, the thermostat should power back on automatically. If the furnace door is not closing properly, you may have to call the HVAC technician to take care of it.

5. Old Thermostat – A thermostat can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years. Unfortunately, you cannot predict how long yours will last. In case your thermostat is more than 10 years old, the probability of it having gone belly up is quite high. However, you need not take our word for it. Ask your local HVAC contractor to come and check it. Based on their recommendation, you can take the necessary action. Our strong advice is to upgrade to a new thermostat if yours is a decade old to avoid futures inconvenience.

Thermostat Blank – What To Do Before Calling A Technician

Before calling the technician, you can do a couple of checks yourself. These will not only help cut down the work of the technician but also resolve the problem of the blank thermostat in case the reason is too fundamental.

1. Change the thermostat batteries to see if they were the cause.
2. Try and change the brightness of the display screen.
3. See that the furnace door is closed properly.
4. See whether the circuit breaker is tripped or the fuse is blown. In this case, you will still have to call the HVAC technician to figure out the reason for the trip or the fuse being blown.

Aztil AC For All Thermostat Problems

The team of Aztil AC often answers to calls related to the thermostat screen blank. Mostly it is one of the above causes that is the source of the problem. The remedial action for some of these can be attempted by the homeowner, but for the other ones, you need the help of a trained HVAC contractor. 

We provide 24/7 emergency services in West Palm Beach, Florida. If you want our trained and experienced technicians to have a look at your faulty thermostat, you can contact us at +1-888-729-8452.

Prevention is always better than cure. Not only does it cost less, but it also gives lesser trouble in the long line of things. Taking good care of your heat pump is the ideal way to keep it running efficiently even when the demands on it become pressing, especially during the peak of winters. Those of you who schedule it regularly have nothing to worry about. However, if you have not been diligent with it, its time to be so and take account of the situation. Residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, can contact Aztil AC for scheduling a prompt heat pump tune-up.

How Often Is Heat Pump Tune-Up Required?

Unlike the HVAC system, the heat pump is slightly different. An HVAC unit usually consists of an air conditioning unit and a furnace. Unlike that, the heat pump performs both tasks of cooling during summers and heating during winters. So, where an HVAC system needs just an annual tune-up, the heat pump needs servicing twice a year. 

Heat pumps run throughout the year keep your home comfortable. The constant running results in more wear and tear as compared to just the heating and cooling systems. The difference is due to the fact that the heat pump performs bot the jobs while an AC provides cooling during summers, and the furnace provides heating during winters. The inference is straightforward – the heat pump performs twice the work, and so it undergoes relatively more wear and tears.

When Is The Right Time To Schedule A Heat Pump Tune-Up?

Ideally, heat pump tune-up should be scheduled just before the peak season so that you don’t face any problems during the time when it is needed the most. It also boosts energy efficiency, ensuring that when the heavy season kicks in, you don’t have to pay substantial power bills.

The right time to schedule a heat pump tune-up is once during spring, prior to the hot summers set in. The second tune-up should be done in fall just before the winters descend plummeting the temperatures.

What If Heat Pump Tune-Up Cannot Be Planned In Spring And Fall?

If for some reason, you cannot schedule maintenance of your heat pump either during spring or fall as suggested, there is no need to worry. Though that is the most ideal time, you can still schedule it anytime and take care to maintain a roughly six-month gap between two successive tune-ups.

The idea is to keep your heat pump working efficiently all year round. Getting a tune-up in the middle of the season may add to your discomfort for a couple of hours when it is shut down for maintenance purposes. But as long as you are okay with that, there is no need to fret, for any time is a good time.

Service Plans Or Maintenance Agreement Plans

To remember scheduling maintenance and tune-ups is a very small thing in the long list of things that need to be taken care of during the year. Joining your local HVAC contractor’s service plan or maintenance agreement plans takes care of all your servicing needs for the heat pump. You don’t have to worry anymore as now the ball is in the contractor’s court for a small fee. They will schedule your heat pump’s semi-annual tune-up at your convenience. 

Beyond taking care of the maintenance schedule, the maintenance agreement also gives the customers additional benefits like:

1. Service on a priority basis.
2. Lesser fees for troubleshooting services.
3. Special discounts on services other than those covered in the agreement.

Isn’t Heat Pump Tune-Up An Overhyped Activity

If you are one of those people who think that the heat pump tune-up and that too twice a year is an overhyped activity, here are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind:

1. Keeps Warranty Intact – Regular heat pump tune-up as advised by the manufacturer keeps your warranty intact. If you fail to adhere to this simple requirement, it will nullify the manufacturer’s warranty. If you think about it, the manufacturer is only trying to ensure that you take good care of your equipment so that it does not give any untoward problems.

2. Helps Recover Lost Efficiency – After a tune-up, you will see that your heating and cooling equipment work far better, makes lesser noise, consumes less power, and above all, gives you minimum trouble. These improvements are clearly reflected in the comfort level of your home and the power bills. 

3. No Costly Repairs – A well-maintained heat pump will rarely ever give you any trouble. Moreover, if any complaints do arise, they will not cost you much in terms of repair. So, to keeps the repair costs low; heat pump tune-up is the best solution.

What Can You Do To Extend The Life Of Your Heat Pump?

Here are a couple of things that you can do to extend the life of your heat pump:

1. Schedule regular maintenance of the heat pump or purchase a service plan for the same.
2. Keep the system and the immediate area around it clean.
3. Change the air filters periodically.
4. Only allow a trained technician with relevant experience in your brand to work on your heat pump.
5. Don’t try to save money by making tune-up a DIY activity because it needs specialized technical knowledge.
6. Don’t overlook or ignore any anomaly which the system may show because it could be a sign of trouble or an issue building inside the unit.

Aztil AC For Heat Pump Tune-Up

Aztil AC takes care of heat pump tune-up in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our trained technicians ensure the stability and efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment by providing timely, prompt, and effective services. If you haven’t got your system checked until now, no need to wait any longer. You can contact us, any time, at +1-888-729-8452 and book an appointment. We provide 24/7 emergency services. Together we can extend the life and efficiency of your heating and cooling system for an unsurpassable comfort at home.

With the advent of winters, the one thing that worries you the most is keeping your home warm even when the temperature is plummeting outside. The chill of outdoor seeping indoor is a recipe for disaster in the holiday season. Having a reliable furnace at such a time will give you the much-needed peace of mind. The reliability is something that a homeowner can ensure by regular furnace tuneup. If you don’t take care of it, don’t expect it to work perfectly without giving any trouble.

What Is A Furnace?

In residential buildings or homes, the furnace is a boiler like equipment that provides heating. Usually, it consists of a pipe system for delivering the heat in the form of fluids, or ductwork in case it is a forced-air system. The furnace has blowers that operate at variable speeds to warm the house quickly and efficiently. It is, in fact, a cost-efficient way to guarantee a warm home in the most adverse conditions.   

Best Time To Get Furnace Tune-Up

The furnace is put to maximum use during the winters. So the best time for furnace tune-up is just before the winters come knocking. However, to say when is the perfect time for furnace tune-up is a little delicate. Mainly because it may differ from situation to situation. The rule of thumb is that you need to get it at least once a year. But if it’s a choice between not having it done at all and getting it done anytime during fall, winter, or summer, it’s better to do it whenever it suits your circumstances the most.

Getting a professional HVAC technician to check your unit before turning on the furnace is ideal. It gives them a good chance to figure out if anything is loose or broken before it complicates the situation. Furnace tune-up or maintenance, along with its inspection just before winters set in, will increase your power savings. On the other hand, a furnace that does not see regular maintenance will shoot your utility bills through the roof. Ultimately, it is a choice that you have to make. 

Importance Of Furnace Tune-Up

Furnace maintenance may not be your top priority in the long list of things you need to get done. In spite of that, the fact remains when things start going downhill, matters complicate and add to the repair cost, becoming a significant expense. To prolong the useful life expectancy of the furnace tune-up is the only feasible option. 

Annual Furnace Tune-Up Will

1. Prolong the life of the furnace.
2. Prevent any significant breakdowns.
3. Keep your home cozy and warm even during the peak of the cold season.
4. Render energy savings of approximately 30%.
5. Keep the warranty on the furnace intact.

How Long Does The Furnace Tune-Up Take?

A furnace tune-up can take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours. It includes cleaning of the outdoor unit along with the fan blades, blower, and the drain line. Next, a detailed inspection is carried out to discover signs of wear and tear and other budding problems within the system. After this, testing is done to figure out the fuel pressure, soundness of the thermostat, igniter, and such. Finally, a lubricant is applied to the motor parts so that they move effortlessly without damaging the motor.

Is It Time For Furnace Tune-Up?

If you face any of these problems mentioned below, getting a furnace tune-up may solve all your heating problems:

1. Home Is Not Heating Properly – Sometimes, dirty air filters and sluggish movement of the blower fan can prevent effective heating of your home. Both these problems can be readily handled during a tune-up.  

2. Strange Sounds Coming From The Furnace – Ideally, the furnace does not make much noise. Thanks to the advancements in technology, it works with a gentle hum at the most. If you hear strange sounds like groaning, whining, or clanking, they indicate to the fact that a furnace tune-up is in order. These sounds emanate because of friction between moving parts, and loose or broken components. 

3. High Utility Bills – Sudden spike in utility bills during the cold winter months also calls for furnace maintenance. A tune-up can help you recover a large percentage of the lost efficiency. As already mentioned above, it can save as much as 30% on your energy bills. Savings as big as that should not be kicked away.   

4. Yellow Pilot Light – The pilot light should be blue in color. In case you see a yellow light, it means that your furnace needs immediate attention. A yellow light indicates that your unit is producing carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless poisonous gas. 

5. Furnace Doesn’t Start – Your furnace isn’t starting at all, in this case, don’t assume the worst that it is done for. Lack of maintenance over the years may have just rendered it incapable of starting. All it needs is some rigorous tune-up, and it will start functioning as expected. 

Cost Of Furnace Tune-Up

A furnace tune-up can cost a homeowner anywhere between $80 to $100. However, in case any repairs are needed, the cost may escalate depending on the complexity of the repairs. There are many professional HVAC contractors who provide maintenance contracts that may bring down the cost of an annual tune-up along with providing other benefits. 

Can I Do Furnace Tune-Up?

You can, but only if you are trained and qualified to do so. If you are not a trained technician, furnace tune-up is not something you should try on your own. It could have adverse consequences on your health as well as the heating system.

Choose Aztil AC For Furnace Tune-Up

Aztil AC is a heating and air conditioning comfort specialist that offers furnace-tune-ups in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our licensed technicians are trained and experienced to handle the maintenance of your furnace so that it runs longer, stronger, and efficiently. You can contact us anytime by calling +1-888-729-8452. We provide 24/7 emergency services so that you can kick back and relax in your cozy abode.

To be aware is to be prepared. In the case of your air conditioner, knowing beforehand that the time is fast approaching when you need a new AC system, is all the more important. You need this information to ensure that your comfort at home remains uninterrupted and also to arrange the necessary finance for purchasing a new unit. Nobody is going to come knocking on your door to relay this information to you. Instead, you have to try and understand the symptoms shown by your AC.

Warning Signs That Indicate You Are Ready For A New AC System

If you are wondering when you may need a new AC system, here are a few signs that you need to look out for. If you see two or more of these symptoms together, its time to buy a new AC.

1. More Than A Decade-Old AC – People who take good care of their air conditioners do not change them frequently. With periodic maintenance, your AC can work as long as 10 to 15 years. So the chances of your AC being a decade or more old is not surprising. However, that is the extent of its useful product life. After the 10 year period, not only would the technology have become obsolete, but your AC too would have started slowing down. If not immediately, the need to buy a new AC would soon arise in the future. You can consult your local HVAC contractor to know approximately how many more years or months of life it has. Based on their inspection of your unit, you can get a fair idea.

2. Needs Frequent Repairs – Some air conditioners need frequent repairs. It could be because you did not invest in its regular maintenance, or probably at some time, the contractor that you hired to repair the AC was not skilled enough. Another reason could be that you had compromised on the quality when you purchased it. There are several reasons for things to go wrong and when they do look for a trained and qualified contractor to look into repairing them. Despite that, if you see that there is no decrease in how often your AC demands repairs, the best course of action is to buy a new one. 

3. Getting Replacement Parts Is Challenging – If getting the replacement parts of your AC for the repairs to carry forward is becoming difficult, it means that your air conditioner runs on old technology. Probably at the time of purchasing your current AC, you did not realize that newer models with better technology had already entered the market. As a result, your AC may not be very old, and yet its spares may be becoming more and more difficult to obtain. Carrying out repairs becomes challenging due to the lack of availability of spare parts.

4. Energy Bills Are Too High – You run yous AC same as the others, and yet your power bills are way higher than theirs. The first order of business is to check that the rates of your power company are the same as that of theirs. If the power rates are the same, you have on your hand an AC that is either oversized or undersized, or simply inefficient. In any of these cases, your utility bills are bound to run high. To prevent the same mistake in the future, when buying a new AC, consult your HVAC contractor to know which size AC will fit your home requirements the best.

5. Does Not Cool Your Home Sufficiently – In spite of regular maintenance, duct cleaning, repairs, and troubleshooting your AC is unable to cool your home as you desire, you may want to replace it. However, prior to taking this big step, check your thermostat settings. It is quite possible that the setting you are using is not correct for the season. The temperature settings vary to accommodate for the weather outside and how different you want it to be inside. That is why in summers, you tend to set your AC to cooling while in winters, you set it to heating.

6. Repairs Are Expensive – If the AC demands frequent repairs, each of which is costly, you may want to purchase a new one. There is no point in spending so much money each year in the form of repairs when adding a couple more thousand dollars can get you an AC that is reliable and does not break down frequently. However, if you skimp on the regular maintenance of the AC and hire the cheapest contractors for the repairs, the fault is not that of your air conditioner. If you continue to follow this penny-pinching practice, any new AC that you purchase will also fall into the same money pit category. 

7. Uses Freon As Refrigerant – The federal government is phasing out the old AC refrigerant, which is known as R22 or Freon because of its ozone-depleting properties. In the current scenario, only licensed contractors can buy recycled R22 as its production has been stopped. As a result, it is not only expensive but also hard to obtain. Very soon, getting it all together in any form will become impossible. Instead of waiting for that time to come, it’s best to be proactive and wake up to your environmental duty. The modern-day air conditioners use Puron or R410A as the refrigerant. This refrigerant is safe for the environment and much readily available. 

Ready For A New AC System

There is no one warning sign that indicates your need for a new AC in the near future. A combination of the signals mentioned above is a better indicator of the same. Nonetheless, never jump to the conclusion that your AC is dying without consulting a licensed contractor. It is just to make sure that you are not making any mistakes on your end and blaming your AC for the incompetence.

Aztil AC is always ready to provide a helping hand. When in doubt, contact us. Our technicians are not only trained but also experienced in handling all your AC related problems. You don’t have to worry anymore because we are here to help you, 24/7. To book an appointment call at +1-888-729-8452.

Buying a new air conditioner is a big decision for every homeowner, irrespective of their financial status. It is mostly so because your comfort at home depends on the AC to a very large extent. Before you begin the search for the most appropriate air conditioner, you should first search for a licensed and reliable HVAC contractor in your vicinity. Once the right contractor is chosen, the rest of the things will smoothly fall in place as they will guide you through every step of the decision-making process. Having said that, it is still good to know a few things beforehand. This knowledge will save you a lot of time. 

3 Most Important HVAC Terms

The HVAC industry has many technical terms that may confuse you. However, as a homeowner looking to buy a new AC, you just need to know 3 of them. We will discuss these terms in detail below, but here they are at a glimpse:

1. SEER rating or the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.
2. Tonnage or the cooling capacity of the air conditioner.
3. Thermostat or the device used for setting the desired temperature.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)

SEER is the ratio of an air conditioner’s cooling capacity (in British Thermal Unit) to the power used (in Watts). The higher the SEER, the better the unit’s efficiency. It translates to the fact that a unit that works efficiently consumes less power. An important point to keep in mind is that the SEER rating is the unit’s maximum potential. It does not mean that the unit will always perform at that ratio. It just means that your AC will not exceed and cross the given value. 

If your AC was purchased prior to the year 2005, it would probably have a SEER rating of 8 or 9. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 updated the old norm and set the new minimum standard at 13 SEER. However, every state can set its own minimum SEER standard as long as it is not below 13 SEER. If your old AC is around 15 years old, you can well imagine the instant savings that a new AC will provide due to its improved efficiency. 

The SEER rating of most modern air conditioners ranges between 13 to 21. Only those ACs that have a SEER value of 14.5 or more qualify for ENERGY STARⓇ. In general, for any homeowner, a good SEER value will be anywhere between 14 to 16 or more.

Here is a chart that shows the savings in energy bills for different SEER values.

If you see carefully, you will realize that the savings between two consecutive SEER values are not much, but if you jump one SEER value in between, you can save a substantial amount more than before.

Tonnage

Tonnage is the cooling capacity of an AC. Needless to say, it has nothing to do with weight. In the HVAC field, a ton is a term that tells the amount of heat an AC can remove from a home in an hour. An air conditioner of 1 ton can remove 12,000 BTUs of air in one hour. Similarly, an AC of 3 tons can remove 36,000 BTUs (12,000 x 3) and so on and so forth. The more the tonnage of an air conditioner, the more air it can cool. Following closely on the heels of this fact is yet another, the higher the tonnage, the greater the energy costs.

Most homes need 1 ton of AC to cool 400 to 1,000 square feet of space. The tonnage increases as the space increases. If you are buying a new air conditioner, immediately or in the near future, the best course of action is to buy one that is ENERGY STAR certified.  

Thermostat

A thermostat is a device used to control the fan speed and set the desired temperature on the AC. Gone are the days of the traditional analog thermostats where you had to manually change the temperature every time you went out or came back in. They were so tedious that most of the time, homeowners did not bother to switch them off, and if they did, they came back to a home that was hot and uncomfortable.

Programmable thermostats are a definite improvement over the traditional thermostats. These can be programmed to suit your daily needs. For example, if you have a fixed time of going to the office and coming back, you can program the thermostat at a slightly higher temperature for the duration that you are away. It will automatically cool the house as per the program. You don’t have to go and change it every time. One program will suffice all your needs.

Yet another step forward are the smart thermostats. These are not only programmable but can also connect to your home wifi. So, even if you are away from home, you can still program them as long as there is decent internet connectivity. 

Other Things To Know When Buying A New Air Conditioner

1. Always buy a unit that fits the size of your home the best. Buying a larger unit is not a good decision as your utility bills will increase, and a unit that is small in size will not cool your home sufficiently. In both cases, you lose.

2. Be sure to buy a good quality system. Usually, all reputable brands will satisfy this core requirement. Quality costs more but gives fewer problems, so in the long run, they serve you better.

3. See the features offered by different brands and purchase the one that meets all your needs. It is not necessary to buy an AC that is fully loaded.

In The End

Whenever you are confused and unable to make up your mind about buying a new air conditioner, ask your local HVAC contractor for advice. With their help, you can never go wrong.

Residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, can contact the trained and professional team of Aztil AC for any HVAC related queries and concerns. We can be reached anytime at +1-888-729-8452.

According to the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), knowledge regarding air duct cleaning is still in its early stages, so there cannot be one recommendation that is the perfect answer. Studies are still being conducted to prove things conclusively one way or the other. In the interim, you would want to err on the side of caution because that is the wisest thing to do. Chew on the fact that a single air duct cleaning helps you get rid of approximately 6 pounds of dust per home.

What Are Air Ducts?

Ducts are tube-like structures or passages that are used in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to distribute and remove air. These are usually connected to air vents that are installed inside the house. Hot or cold air passes through the air ducts and enters the home via the air vents.

Air Duct Cleaning

Air duct cleaning is the procedure wherein all the accumulations like dust and debris are cleared from the air ducts, registers, and any other parts of the forced air system.

The air ducts are usually concealed behind the walls and overhead in the ceilings. In short, they are hard to reach, and even then, you may not be able to access the entire length and breadth of it. The only effective way to reach and clean them is by using a truck-mounted and high-power vacuum system. A regular household vacuum cleaner will not do the trick due to its relatively low power and less reach.

Importance Of Air Duct Cleaning

Here are a few reasons why we consider air duct cleaning important:

1. Improve Indoor Air Quality – The air that you and your family breathe in is the same that passes through the air ducts. If the ducts are not cleaned, they become a breeding home to allergens and sometimes even critters (if you are unlucky). In case you have any pets or have renovated your home recently, your ducts would have attracted large amounts of dust and dander. These particles re-enter your home with the air that blows in. On their own, they may just add to the unwanted matter floating in the air or deposited on different surfaces. But for the elderly and patients suffering from asthma, they can become a health hazard. Cleaning the air ducts may not eliminate the airborne particles completely but will definitely reduce them drastically and improve the overall air quality.

2. Improve Energy Efficiency – Dust and debris tend to restrict the airflow. When the flow of air gets restricted, it is unable to move freely amongst the components of your heating and cooling system. As a result, your unit now has to work longer and harder to reach the desired temperature settings. Its flip side is that the system consumes more power to perform the same job as before and still fails at it miserably, providing inadequate heating and cooling. To summarize, the efficiency of the unit drops due to accumulations in the air ducts. Cleaning them will restore the lost efficiency to a large extent.

3. Protect The Heating And Cooling system – Dirty air ducts can lead to dirty air conditioner coils. It can also contaminate the wheels of the blower and increase friction between the parts that rub against each other. Dirty air conditioner coils will prevent proper cooling of the air and also increase the humidity inside the home. Those parts that rub against each other can heat up and burn, resulting in expensive repairs. Cleaning the ducts will increase the productive life of your costly heating and cooling system.

4. Remove Smells And Odors – Most homes will have their own unique smell. It is usually a combination of personal hygiene products, foods, air fresheners, and such. Sometimes this smell may be pleasant and, at other times, quite offending. Air ducts tend to trap smells like cigarette smoke, paint fumes, mildew, cleaning agents, etc. These smells are absorbed by the particle matter trapped inside the ducts. When these particles find their way back into your home, it starts smelling. If you want a permanent solution to the unwanted smells permeating your home, air duct cleaning may be the only perfect solution.  

When Is Air Duct Cleaning Imperative

Listed below are a few cases in which you should resort to air duct cleaning without wasting any time:

1. If you see visible mold growth in the air ducts, you need to see to their cleaning ASAP. If you are not sure whether the substance is mold, you can collect a sample and send it to a microbiology lab for confirmation.

2. If your ducts are infested with pests and rodents, you will have to get them cleaned prior to getting any treatment to prevent any future infestations. 

3. If you haven’t gotten your air ducts cleaned in the past couple of years, the chances of accumulations inside them are pretty high. Cleaning them immediately will improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and also enhance the quality of air.

How Often Should Air Ducts Be Cleaned?

According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, your ducts should be cleaned at least once between 3 to 5 years. In case you live in an area that is highly polluted or faces frequent dust storms, the same should happen once in two years. In the end, it all depends on how much dust and pollutants find their way inside your home.

Closing Notes

The average cost of cleaning the air ducts is $35 per vent. However, the price may vary slightly depending on the size of your ducts and the ease of accessing them. If you wish to undertake the cleaning task yourself, we will highly recommend you against it as you won’t be able to do a thorough job of it. Contractors offering professional duct cleaning services are the best and obvious solution if you desire complete and systematic cleaning of the air ducts.

Feel free to contact Aztil AC if you have any problems, queries, or concerns regarding your HVAC system. 

While doing AC troubleshooting, the main concern is to repair or replace? That is a million-dollar question. The dilemma is that repair is cheaper than the replacement. But if constant repairs are needed, it’s always better to replace the unit. Truth be told, you will have to depend on the experience and expertise of the AC technician to make the most suitable decision. 

Always Have A Plan

You cannot decide between repair and replacement of your AC or HVAC at the toss of a coin. What you need is a solid plan. To make the best decision under the given circumstances, here are a few questions that you need to answer.

1. How much will the repair cost?
2. How long will the repair hold?
3. How much will be the replacement cost?
4. Which of the two options, repair or replacement, is suitable for your home in the long run?
5. Will the new unit pay for itself in efficiency, functionality, and reliability?
6. Are you in a position to bear the financial burden of the final decision?

AC / HVAC Warning Signs That Repairs Are In Order

For any of the symptoms mentioned below, you can straightforward think of repairs. The decision will not only get your AC working as good as new but ill also save you a more significant financial burden. 

1. Sluggish Air Flow – If you feel that the cool air coming inside your house from the vents has become slow and sluggish, the chances are that your air filters are dirty. On the off chance that someone may have accidentally changed the fan settings on the thermostat, do have a peek at it as well. Mostly, it is one of these two reasons that the airflow has become sluggish. Another reason could be that the fan has become dirty and so not moving as fast as it ideally would.

2. Refrigerant Leak – The first time that it happens, you can ask your local AC technician to plug or seal the source of the leak and top up the refrigerant to the requisite level. A simple repair like this is all that is needed to make your air conditioner work like before. Sometimes due to corrosion and at other times due to heavy impact from stray debris can cause the coolant to leak. So, you needn’t panic and start looking into the replacement options.

3. Water Leak – A multitude of reasons could lead to water leaks from your AC. If the drip pan or the drain line gets clogged, it could happen. It could also happen when the condensation frozen over the coils melts. In the first case, you need to unclog the blockage so that the trapped moisture droplets can pass out through the drainpipe without any fuss. This is a relatively easy task; all it needs is a little vacuuming and plugging of cracks, if any. In the second case, ideally, there should be no freezing of coils. If the coils freeze, it may be because the cold air is getting trapped inside due to dirty air filters or because the system is short cycling. Changing the air filters will take care of the trapped cold air, and an AC technician can easily rectify the problem causing short cycling.  

4. Noises – There are a plethora of reasons for the noises coming from the AC. Most of them are nothing to be greatly concerned about. However, they need to be dealt with as soon as possible. If left unattended, they can become bigger problems. In most cases, the noise can be handled by greasing the rubbing components and tightening of loose parts. In a few unfortunate cases, a broken piece may be the culprit and may require changing that particular part. 

AC / HVAC Warning Signs That Indicate Imminent Replacement  

Here are a few signs that point to the fact that your AC will need to be replaced very soon.

1. Frequent Breakdown – If your AC breaks down frequently even after regular and timely maintenance, it may be on its last leg. However, it is advisable that you take a second opinion from another contractor before jumping to any conclusions.  

2. Costly Repairs – If the cost of repairing your air conditioner is constantly increasing, you may want to think about buying a new one. No amount of AC repair and troubleshooting is worth paying dearly through the pockets without any end in sight. It will only drain your finances and not offer any concrete solution. Again, take a second opining from a trained HVAC contractor to figure out the actual situation. Maybe your old technician is scamming you or is limited by his knowledge.  

3. More Than A Decade-Old AC – In case your AC is more than 10 years old, you should not think twice about replacing it. Firstly, because technology is constantly evolving and offering better and improved solutions. Secondly, your system has become outdated and run through its productive life. Getting its spares will become an increasingly costly and challenging task. 

No matter what, you should always consult a few trained contractors before making your final decision. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can help you identify the actual cause behind frequent break downs and costly repairs. 

AC Troubleshooting – Repair Or Replacement?

As we spoke above, you cannot decide either way without consulting with a few HVAC contractors. No option is without its own merits and demerits. Keep these in mind while you are trying to decide on the best possible course of action. There are times when a repair will give you outstanding results, and at other times you have no other possibility than buying a new AC. The decision is very difficult for homeowners. At the end of the day, don’t just think in terms of the expense. Think also in terms of health, safety, comfort, and environmental impact. These considerations will help you make the most appropriate decision.

You can count on Aztil AC to help you figure out all the problems related to your heating and cooling system. Our team of trained technicians will not only answer all your concerns but will also assist you by providing reliable services. You can reach us anytime at +1-888-729-8452.

You are repeatedly told by the HVAC manufacturer and your local contractor to change the air filters periodically. But as is human nature, we just assume that they are doing so to earn a few extra bucks. Well, that is not actually the case. To remove this myth, we are going to tell you how dirty air filters can impact your air conditioner system. Hopefully, by the time you have read the complete article, you will not think twice about regularly changing them.

The Purpose Of Air Filters

To fully appreciate the importance of changing the air filters at frequent intervals, one needs to first understand their purpose. The air filters are a vital part of your heating and cooling system as they cleanse the circulating air. They are used to trap the solid contaminants, which could be anything from dust, pollen, and smoke, to grease or grime. Getting rid of these contaminants enhances the quality of the indoor air. Along with your health, the air filters also have a direct bearing on the energy efficiency and productive life of your AC.

Impact Of Dirty Air Filters On Your Air Conditioner System

1. Build Up Of Allergens – Air filters tend to become dirty over a period of time. Once they get clogged with dust and debris, they are unable to trap anymore suspended particles in the air. As a result, the allergens in the circulating air increase, and the quality of the indoor air deteriorates. On its own, you may think that this is not a big problem. However, if you live with the elderly or anyone in your home has asthma, they will suffer terribly. Similarly, colds, skin irritations, and watering eyes will be a common occurrence in your home. 

2. Uneven Cooling – Think of the respiratory system. The amount you inhale decides the amount you exhale. If you cannot breathe-in properly and adequately, there is no way you can breathe-out suitably. The same is the case with your cooling system. Dirty air filters prevent your system from breathing appropriately. As such, it is unable to cool your home in the desired manner. Sometimes the cold air remains trapped behind the dirty air filters, and at others, it flows in sluggishly. What you ultimately land up with are hot and cold areas or rooms at different temperatures.

3. Short Cycling – Every air conditioner cycles on and off, depending on the climate and temperature settings throughout the day. When the air filter becomes excessively dirty, it can cause the air conditioner to cycle more frequently. This creates not just noise pollution but also the uncomfortable temperature inside the house. Both these occurrences kill the pleasure of relaxing indoors without any interruptions.

4. Freezing Of Coils – When the air filters are clean, they do not obstruct the flow of air from the unit. However, when there is a build-up of any sort, it acts as an impediment to the free flow of air from the system. This causes the cold air to get trapped inside and drastically lowers the temperature within the unit. The unit becomes chilly, and the moisture trapped by the coils starts to freeze, causing the icing of the coils. When the ice over the coils melts, it can make your AC unit leak water. These leaks further lead to mold infestation and wet spots in your clean home.   

5. Reduced System Efficiency – The flow of air plays an essential role in maintaining the efficiency of the system. As we spoke above, dirty air filters cause short cycling and freezing of the coils. Both these occurrences push the air conditioner to work continuously to provide the necessary cooling. Instead of bringing down the temperature to a comfortable level inside the house, it consumes more power and still delivers insufficient output. In turn, you see a dramatic increase in your utility bills. So, one can rightly deduce that dirty air filters lower the efficiency of the AC.

6. Puts The System Under Strain – When the efficiency of the system is less, it needs to work harder to provide the same amount of cooling as before. This puts the AC under a lot of pressure due to which it can overheat, short-circuit, and sometimes, even malfunction. Either of these situations is not suitable for the health of your AC. It not only leads to more wear and tear of the components but can also lead to complete failure of one or more parts. 

One-Stop Solution – Change Dirty Air Filters

All the air conditioner problems listed above occur only if you let the air filters become dirty and clogged. Thankfully changing them is not a big deal. The homeowners can do this themselves. So, if you want to save a few extra bucks, you can tackle the task yourself. However, take care to buy the same configuration filters as before. Most homeowners land up at the hardware store without the basic knowledge of what type of air filters they need. The best option is to take a pic of what is already installed in your home and look for the same type. Or you could ask your local HVAC technician to help you figure out the type and size of air filters needed for your AC. Remember, one size does not fit all. In case you still have any doubts, let your HVAC contractor take care of this small matter.

The Final Verdict

If you want to extend the life of your AC, you need to change the dirty air filters regularly in addition to its annual maintenance. We recommend that you change the air filters every month. However, the span can vary depending on their actual condition. If the filters look clean even after a month, you can wait a few days longer. But change them you must when they get dirty.

For the residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, you needn’t look any further than Aztil AC. We take care of any small to big matters related to your air conditioner. Our elite team of technicians specializes in everything HVAC and can be reached 24/7 at +1-888-729-8452.

Choosing the right people to work with is always the best. With them, there remain no doubts about the quality of work, ethics, and following safety measures. Things are no different when you are looking to hire an air conditioning company or an HVAC company to take care of your heating and cooling system. To choose the best, you need to look for certain qualities. Today, we will tell you about the top 10 things that you need to look for when hiring an air conditioning company.

10 Things To Look For When Hiring An Air Conditioning Company

1. Market Reputation – The market reputation of a company is often the starting point of any decision-making process. If the company has a good reputation, it means that they provide prompt, reliable, and quality services. These are precisely the three things that you need in an air conditioning company because you never know when your HVAC system demands their services. Nobody would want to be stuck with a company that promises and promises but fails to deliver. Asking for referrals and checking online reviews are the best ways to gather this vital information.    

2. Training & Certification – Only trained and certified personnel should be allowed to touch your heating and cooling system. Technical training from any recognized institute for HVAC systems is must-have. In addition, the technicians must also have a North American Technician Excellence certification. This certification is received only after passing rigorous exams that reflect a technician’s up-to-date knowledge of practices, innovations, and technology in the HVAC industry.   

3. License – A mandatory requirement by the state is that the HVAC contractor should have a license. The license is proof that the contractor has adequate training and expertise to do the job. It also guarantees the fact that the said contractor meets all the industry standards. Besides, the license is an assurance that the contractor does not indulge in any malpractices. The license of those contractors who are found to be scamming the customers or breaking any rules and regulations is forfeited. 

4. Insurance – Insurance is necessary to protect the rights of both the contractor and the customer. Here is where you can differentiate the chaff from the grain, or in this case, scammers from actual contractors. A company having valid insurance will never hesitate to show you the insurance document. On the other hand, a con artist will try to confuse you in words and try his best not to let you see and examine the insurance document. Beware of these so-called cheap contractors as they can do more harm to your HVAC unit.

5. Brand Experience – Experience counts a lot in the HVAC industry; more importantly, the brand experience. Your chosen HVAC contractor should have at least a couple of years of experience in the brand that you own. Hiring an air conditioning company that has no experience in your AC brand is a foolish mistake, one that you may regret at a later on time. Each brand has its own nuances, and so you need to hire a technician who understands the intricacies of your AC.

6. On-Site Evaluation – Without inspecting the actual equipment and the site of its installation, it is not possible to predict the problem or the cost of installation. In either case, the technician should come to your home and inspect the premises before arriving at any decision. It is not possible to judge the level of difficulty in the installation or the reason for malfunction over a telephonic conversation. 

7. Written Estimates – Whenever you are looking to get a new AC installed or experiencing some problem with your unit, ask for written estimates for the job order. It will allow you to compare the prices and also see the various heads under which you will be charged. Only genuine contractors will ideally give you detailed written estimates. Others will simply tell you a round-off figure and try to get away with it. The problem with these so-called contractors is that once they enter your home, they will start adding to the estimate by pointing out one problem after the other even when none exists.  

8. Special Offers – Most HVAC contractors will come out with special offers, especially during the lull season. Sometimes these offers are used as a means of attracting new customers even during the peak season. Whatever be the time of your requirement for an AC technician or contractor, ask them whether their company has any special offers going on at the moment. These could be in the form of discounts, rebates, or loyalty points. An attractive offer at the right time may make your decision-making process a bit easier.

9. Financing Options – God forbid, but if your AC needs a costly repair or any modification to the home that will eat into your finances, you need to find out about the payment schedule. Some reputed contractors tend to offer special payment plans or other finance options that suit your pockets better. There is no harm in asking for this information. In hindsight, it may just ease your burden. However, always read the fine print and clearly understand what the option entails. You wouldn’t want to get any unpleasant surprises later on.   

10. Warranty – There are certain aspects which, if not adhered, can render the warranty null and void. One such thing is the periodic maintenance of your AC unit. Your air conditioning company should be able to tell you how to keep the warranty intact and in force. While at it, you should also ask them about the maintenance contracts.

Concluding Thoughts

Finding the most suitable contractor or an air conditioning company for your heating and cooling system may appear to be a daunting task. But armed with the right set of pointed questions, you can easily overcome the hurdle. The tips suggested above will guide you immensely in choosing wisely.

In case you are a resident of West Palm Beach, Florida, you needn’t look further than Aztil AC. We are a one-stop solution for all your heating and cooling needs. You can contact us anytime at +1-888-729-8452.

Purchasing an air conditioner or upgrading to a better one is always a time of great contemplation. With a decision that has financial implications and also impacts the comfort level at home, you wouldn’t want to go wrong. To that extent, let’s learn a bit about the Rheem air conditioning systems that are a top quality product and so a definite contender for your most probable list.

About Rheem

Rheem is an American, privately held manufacturing company. It is a subsidiary of “Paloma Industries” and was founded in the year 1925 by the brothers Richard and Donald Rheem. In addition to the Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning systems, the company also manufactures boilers and commercial water heaters. Today, it is the only company in the world that produces air conditioners, furnaces, water heating, pool and spa heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment. In fact, it is the biggest manufacturer of water heating systems in North America.

Why Rheem Air Conditioning Systems?

Let’s not go with the usual advantages like quality and efficiency. Instead, let’s try and see what actually gives Rheem a unique and competitive standing in the market.

1. A Trusted And Reputable Brand – Rheem has made a commendable name for itself not just in the United States but also abroad. With unique and quality products that appeal to the customers, Rheem has already made a strong foothold in the international arena. Its innovative products are the leaders in the market and continue to do well both on the operational and service levels. Both residential and industrial-grade heating and cooling ac equipment made by Rheem are trusted by homeowners and organizations alike. It continues to serve its customers through advanced comfort solutions, more savings, and delightful experiences.

2. Award-Winning Innovations – Very few businesses dare to be different and innovative. Most let others take the lead and follow the leaders to play safe. Rheem dares to be different by taking the innovation bull by the horns. It pioneers in cutting edge technology that leads the industry today. Along with that, it works tirelessly to achieve higher and better energy efficiencies. Rheem has a very long list of innovations that have been recognized and won awards for exemplary solutions.  

3. Committed To Sustainability – Rheem is steadfast in making sure that it only makes those products and systems that can make a difference for the people they serve.  It also ensures that its processes also drive the same thought process. The difference could be in the form of saving more energy, supporting trade, lowering the carbon footprint to minimizing waste. In fact, Rheem’s 2025 commitment is to eliminate waste entirely. This kind of sustainable thinking needs to be applauded and motivated. 

Benefits Of Rheem Air conditioning systems

Rheem air conditioning systems offer the perfect solution for all homes because of their minimal effort systems. Rheem air conditioning system is not only simple to understand and easy to use but also cost-efficient. With a wide variety of products, they offer manifold solutions focusing on needs like energy efficiency, silent operation, ease-of-use, and carrying unfailing manufacturer warranties for various problems.

If customer ratings are any indication, most Rheem air conditioning systems are preferred than other similar units. Since homeowners usually have a strict budget, Rheem AC’s are affordable, energy-efficient, and durable. It also has a good STAR rating, and some of its systems boast a SEER rating of 20. Both these facts are no small feat. The advanced onboard diagnostics are helpful to technicians while troubleshooting as it is helpful in pinpointing the problem area.

Aztil AC For Repair And Installation Of Your Rheem Air Conditioning System

If you are desirous of the best repair and installation service of your Rheem air conditioning system, look no further than Aztil AC. We are a West Palm Beach-based company that specializes in taking care of your Rheem AC. We have a team of trained, reliable, and efficient technicians that have immense hands-on experience with the Rheem air conditioners along with other popular brands.

The elite team of Aztil AC is available 24/7 at +1-888-729-8452. When you book an appointment with us, our technician visit you on-site to discuss the installation or repair, as the case may be. After inspecting your system, he will give you a run-down of the installation process or the probable cause of the problem and how they aim to correct it. In the case of a repair, the technician will discuss the repair costs and replacement options available along with answering all your queries and concerns related to the job at hand. 

You can rest assured that our team prides itself on making available timely and professional services to you and that too at your doorstep. Typically, you will get the same day service for installation or repair of your Rheem air conditioning system.  

For Your Consideration

The hot summer days are just around the corner. When you are already aware of it, there is no use in delaying the installation or repair of your Rheem AC. In fact, if you don’t want to be stuck indoor with a faulty AC later, now is the perfect time to get it repaired by a trained and experienced technician. And if you are looking to upgrade or buy a new AC, Rheem will not let you down. With top of the line products, cutting edge technology, steady and reliable performance, long-lasting warranties, and excellent customer and service support, Rheem is bound to awe you.

This summer doesn’t be stuck in a warm home but enjoys its comforts with help from Aztil AC and Rheem. Your summers could never get better than this winning combination. So help us to help you.  

The lifeline of every modern home is its HVAC system. It keeps your home cool in summers and warm in winters. But everybody is not that lucky. Some of us make costly mistakes while installing the HVAC system, and these eat into our carefully planned finances. To ensure that you don’t make these very same mistakes, we are taking the initiative to warn you about them. 

5 Common And Costly HVAC Installation Mistakes

1. Choosing An Inappropriate Contractor – Yes, we understand that you want to shave off extra and unwarranted expenses. However, don’t do so at the cost of choosing the right contractor. An inexperienced contractor will definitely be cheap. His reputation, quality of work, and advice everything will be substandard and questionable. If you are really unlucky, they will do more damage to your HVAC system and add to your list of mounting expenses. An experienced contractor does not come cheap. His knowledge and understanding of the finer points of HVAC is par excellence. A knowledgeable and experienced contractor will never let you down. They are skilled in taking care of all your HVAC needs, and you are sure to benefit from their advice. In the long run, with their help, you will be able to keep your repair and maintenance costs to a minimum. 

2. Purchasing An Incorrectly Sized System – When it comes to central heating and cooling systems, there is no one size that fits all. In fact, before purchasing a new HVAC unit, you should get your home inspected by an HVAC contractor so that they can tell you the best size of HVAC for your home. If you land up buying a unit that is small, it will never heat and cool your home appropriately. However, if you buy an oversized unit, it will add to your utility bills by constantly cycling on and off. Both of these mistakes are expensive. The only way to correct them is by purchasing yet another AC that is sized for your home. 

3. Choosing The Wrong Installation Location – The location of the outdoor unit has a significant bearing on how well the heating and cooling system works. You can stick it between bushes or case it between cemented walls so that it does not stick out. All that this camouflaging will do is restrict the air that the system breathes in. When the air entering the system is not proper, it will not push in the appropriate amount of cool or warm air into your home. In the same way, you cannot install the unit in an area that receives direct sunlight throughout the day. You need to install the compressor unit in a shaded area that is open and has no restrictions in the form of bushes and such.

4. Constantly Running The AC – In most homes, the kids go to school and the adults to works. There are a couple of hours in the day when nobody is home, and yet the heating and cooling system works without any change. It just adds to your utility bills and does not in any way add to the comfort of either yourself or your family. Add these days together, and you will realize that more than half the year, your HVAC runs for no good reason. It amounts to quite a considerable sum. Before leaving home, you should increase the temperature on the thermostat, or you should shut down the AC. Both these options will save you a lot of money and also decrease your carbon footprint. If you think that everyday fiddling with the thermostat is troublesome, you can invest in a programmable thermostat. This way, whatever settings you program, your thermostat will accordingly send signals to the HVAC system.

5. Setting The Thermostat Too High Or Too Low – Most of us think that setting the temperature too low or too high will cool or warm the house faster. This is simply a misconception. Irrespective of the temperature setting, the unit will still function in the usual manner and pump in the air at the same rate. The result of extreme settings is that it puts your unit under tremendous strain, and very soon, you have to switch the temperature back to normal else you home will become either too chilly or hot. Every time your system works under stress, it consumes a lot of power, making for higher energy bills. Instead, try changing the fan settings to help your HVAC system reach the desired cooling quickly and more efficiently. 

Few Other HVAC Installation Mistakes That Cost Money

Here are a few other HVAC installation mistakes that can prove to be costly on your pockets:

1. Neglecting to periodically change the air filters puts the heating and cooling system under pressure, thereby increasing your utility bills.
2. Keeping your windows open to let in the sunlight or a little breeze will prevent your home from reaching the desired temperature, and your unit will work constantly to try and achieve it.
3. Skipping the HVAC maintenance and ignoring any budding troubles within the system will also cost you dearly when they escalate into more significant and costlier problems.
4. Poor insulation will also prevent your home from reaching a comfortable temperature. The heating and cooling system will work continuously and still be unable to satisfy you. The electricity bill keeps mounting, and you see no end to the needless expense.

Concluding Thoughts

First and foremost, get hold of an experienced and reputable HVAC contractor. He will always guide you in the correct direction. Next, in case you are upgrading or buying your first HVAC, get your home duly sized by the contractor to know the exact capacity of your intended new ac equipment. Once the HVAC installation is done, see to its periodic maintenance and regular changing of the air filters. Refrain from committing the mistakes, as mentioned above. If you succeed in doing so, you will not only do your finances a favor but also extend the life expectancy of your heating and cooling system.

If you have any queries or concerns, you can contact the elite team of professionals at Aztil AC by calling +1-888-729-8452.

At times, homeowners call us complaining about the fact that certain parts or rooms of their home are cooler than the others and vice-versa. When you have an HVAC system or a central heating and cooling system, this should not happen. Such variance in temperature occurs only when the air balancing is not proper. Due to this, some rooms, zones, or areas get more air while others do not. However, ensuring air balancing in homes is not a complicated task. There are a couple of ways in which you can see to it that your entire home gets an equal amount of air so that it heats and cools evenly.

What Is Air Balancing?

Air balancing is the process of testing and making adjustments to the central heating and cooling system so that it delivers the appropriate amount of air in each and every room. The aim of these tests and adjustments is to see to it that your house will have a consistent temperature throughout. It eliminates hot and cold areas.

9 Ways To Ensure Air Balancing In The Home

Here are 9 different ways to make sure that your home has an even distribution of air:

1. Check The Registers – Registers are the grilled moving parts that direct air onto your home. You need to pay attention to these first when you encounter air balancing problems. It’s entirely possible that by mistake, the registers have been closed. If that be the case, correct the mistake immediately. In case you have a double-story house or a house with two floors, try opening the registers on the top floor and partially close those on the ground floor during summers. Reverse the process during the cold winter months. This small trick will go a long way in eradicating the hot and cold zones in your home.

2. Make Sure Filters Are Clean – If the air filters are not clean, they will prevent the free flow of air into your home. When the airflow is sluggish, due to the accumulation of dirt, dust, and debris on the filters, there are bound to be air balancing issues. One cannot do without the air filters as they improve the quality of air. So the only option that you have is to change them frequently so that they don’t get clogged. Changing the air filters is very easy as they are usually the “place and clip-on” types.

3. Use The Ceiling Fan – The direction in which the ceiling fan moves has a great bearing in maintaining the coolness and warmth in that room. During the summers, the ceiling fan should move counterclockwise as it will push down the cool air downwards. The speed can be adjusted as per choice, though low is always better. But if it’s scorching hot, you can always increase the speed. In the winter months, the ceiling fan should move in the clockwise direction at low speed. This will ensure that the warm air distributes evenly throughout the room.

4. Install Window Coverings – The windows let in sunlight and heat during the hot summer days adding to the warmth inside the home and dissipating its coolness. As against this, in winters, they add to the coolness inside the home. To prevent the loss of heat during winters and cold during summers, install window coverings. They can be in the form of a tint film, blinds, drapes, or heavy curtains. The idea is to install a barrier that prevents the outside temperature from mitigating the indoor temperature. 

5. Fix The Ductwork – Often, when the ductwork becomes old, it develops leaks and cracks. Sometimes critters make homes inside the ductwork and restrict the flow of air. At other times, the airflow gets restricted due to accumulations inside it. The lack of professional cleaning keeps these problems hidden, causing the airflow to get slow and sluggish. You need to get your ducts professionally cleaned at least once a year and also fix all the sources of leaks and cracks.

6. Check Fan Settings On Thermostat – A common mistake that most of us do is that we don’t pay attention to the fan setting on the thermostat. The fan setting should be set to “On” as this will continuously force the hot or cold air, based on the temperature setting, into the house. “Auto” setting for the fan is not desirable as it does not steadily move the air indoors.

7. Check Insulation – Insulation plays a very vital role in air balancing. If the insulation is not up to the mark, the places from where the indoor air is escaping will have a marked temperature difference. Most of us are very diligent about ensuring that no gaps and cracks exist in the doors and windows from which the air can escape, but we forget all about the attic. In most homes, the lack of proper insulation in the attic is the prime cause of air balancing problems. If that is the case in your home, you need to rectify the situation immediately. 

8. Try 2 Degree Offset – The two-degree offset trick works only for those homes that have a separate thermostat for the upper and ground floor. You need to set the thermostats at a difference of 2 degrees. For example, in winters, the temperature on the top floor should be 2 degrees lower than that of the ground floor. At the turn of the season, reverse the setting. 

9. Check The Placement Of Electronics – Electronics that work continuously generate and emanate heat. As a result, the area where they are installed will have a higher temperature than the rest of the house. While placing such electronics like the fridge and TV, make sure that they are nowhere near the thermostat as they will play havoc with the thermostat’s sensors. Secondly, don’t place these types of equipment in close proximity to each other. 

Size Does Matter

If you speak to any air conditioner repair services personnel or technician, they will tell you that the size of your HVAC system has a bearing on indoor air balancing. Your AC has to be the right size to prevent any such issues. 

Air Conditioner Repair Services

Aztil AC prides itself on providing air conditioner repair services in the West Palm Beach area. If you need any help or assistance with your heating and cooling system or if you have any queries or concerns, call us at +1-888-729-8452. 

A common AC mistake committed by most homeowners is not scheduling their AC maintenance at the start of the summer season. They assume, since the air conditioner was working fine last summer, it will continue to do so. Seldom do they realize that the problem may have started brewing last season, and overlooking the maintenance now could lead to expensive AC repairs.

Another school of thought is that AC maintenance is a wasteful and expensive activity that serves no purpose. If something has to go wrong, it will, and maintenance will not make any difference. To such people, ignorance may be bliss, but if they pay attention to the below-mentioned facts, they will realize how much more they have to bear.

1. How often does your AC break down or develop issues as compared to those who ensure regular AC maintenance?
2. How expensive are the repairs to your unit as compared to the ones that are well taken care of by the technicians?
3. How high is your electricity bill as compared to the others?

The answer to these three questions will help you understand the importance of AC maintenance. 

It’s Never Too Late For AC Maintenance

At the very onset, let’s be clear about one important fact – It’s Never Too Late For AC Maintenance. If you still have not scheduled it for your AC, contact Aztil AC at +1-888-729-8452. Our trained technician will come to your home and do thorough maintenance or tune-up of your AC so that it functions optimally without giving you any trouble.

How AC Maintenance Helps

1. Keeps Most Problems At Bay – Annual AC maintenance takes care of most of the issues which, if left unattended, develop into problems. For example, the fan belt is tightened to prevent noises and improve cooling, the fan motor is cleaned so that the fan moves without any hinderances, loose wires are tightened to prevent short circuits, and so on. Since the maintenance involves the complete check-up of the cooling unit, it helps you evade most of the scenarios that could make your unit malfunction or break down. 

2. Increases Your Savings – AC maintenance help recover around 20% to 25% of the lost efficiency. The more efficient your cooling unit, the lesser the power it will consume. It results in more savings in your electricity bills. So if you wish to be on top of your utility bills, AC maintenance is a must-do.

3. Reduces The Cost Of Repairs – Timely rising to the occasion and getting the repairs means that the issue will not escalate into a bigger problem. Small things are not only easy to rectify, but they also cost less. However, once it is a full-blown problem, not only will the rectification become an expensive activity, but it will also take a lot of time. You will be paying the technician by the hour, so the longer it takes, the more you pay.

Is It Necessary To Service AC Every Year?

Let’s begin by asking another question, “Do you service your car every year?”, then why not your AC? The servicing of a car is important so that it runs smoothly and gives good mileage. So is the case with an air conditioner. You need to get it serviced every year so that it gives you optimum and troublefree performance. Therefore, YES, it is necessary to get the servicing of your AC done every year.

Can I Do AC Maintenance?

Ac maintenance is not a plain and simple task, one that you can do on your own. Please refrain from doing so. At most, you can change the air filters, but draw the line at that. AC maintenance is a complex activity, one that can only be done by a trained technician. It involves proper inspection of the cooling unit. It includes examining the motor and the blower along with the drain line and coils. Additionally, checks are done to verify the operating pressures and temperatures, the return and supply lines, level of the refrigerant, and connections.

Technician Most suitable Person For AC Maintenance

A trained and certified HVAC technician is the only person who is most suited to do the AC maintenance. The technician will keep all the safety regulations in mind while performing the task and complete it with due diligence. You may come across people who claim to be trained, but when you ask for their certification or license, they will try to confuse with words. Beware of such con men as they can put the health of your family as well as the AC at risk. 

Cost Of AC Maintenance

Routine maintenance and servicing of AC will cost around $75 to $200. Extended service contracts can cost you around $150 to $500. However, these include the complete HVAC system, that is, both heating and cooling. In the case of repairs other than the standard service, you may have to pay to the HVAC technician $50 to $150 per hour.

The price of AC maintenance varies due to the size of the system you have, the size of your home, the age of your AC unit, ease of access to the unit, and so on.

Contact Us For AC Maintenance Services In West Palm Beach

Now that you know why AC maintenance is so important, let’s come back to the most crucial fact that we mention in the beginning – It’s never too late to get the maintenance of your AC done. Yes, it will give you a couple of hours of discomfort because your AC will be switched off due to safety purposes. But once the servicing is complete, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home without your cooling unit, giving any trouble.

You can contact the elite team of Aztil AC to schedule the maintenance of your AC. Our representatives can be reached anytime at +1-888-729-8452. If you want to run your AC without any problems for years to come, you need our annual AC maintenance services. Let us start today itself and build a fruitful relationship. We are glad to be of assistance in any which way we can. 

Holidays are a time for kicking back and getting some much-needed relaxation. It is time to spend with your family and play catch up with your friends. Celebrations are part and parcel of the holiday season. At such a time, you will want your house to be warm and inviting, not cold and unwelcoming. A time filled with happiness and joy should never be spent stressing over the mounting utility bills and heating service repair costs. With so much shopping to do for all the close friends and family, we decided to help you out with 5-holiday heating tips.

Top 5 Holiday Heating Tips

If you wish to minimize your heating service repair costs and get optimum efficiency from your HVAC system, here are a few handy tips:

1. Don’t Keep Opening The Oven Door – Refrain from opening the oven door every few minutes to check the status and condition of your bake. Every time you open the oven door and have a peek inside, its temperature drops around 25 degrees. The oven consumes more power to bring the temperature up to mark. Every time you open the oven door, the same cycle repeats. Now, look at another aspect. The temperature drop of 25 degrees does not vanish into thin air. It releases into your home, heating it more. Your HVAC system kicks in to maintain the temperature to your preset level, consuming more power. This you could have done without had you not opened the oven door after every few minutes. Baking is something which you have probably been doing for a long time, even if you haven’t, the recipe that you are following tells you approximately how much time it will take to bake the delicacy. Don’t open the oven door before the time is up unless the recipe calls for it.

2. Run Dishwasher Only When It Is Full – A dishwasher uses less water in washing the dishes as compared to when you wash them by hand. With water being such a precious commodity and the fact that the dishwasher runs on electricity, you cannot afford to be careless. Every time you use it, you add to your water and electricity bill. Instead of running your dishwasher for a few dishes, wait until you have a full load. This way, you will get more work from your dishwasher and that too at a small cost. You may think that the dirty dishes are piling in the sink when the guests can arrive, any moment. Well, if that be the case, rinse them and place them in the dishwasher so that they are not an eyesore. Also, while rinsing, try to use cold water as using hot water will mean more power consumption to heat the water. 

3. Match Your Pans To The Burner – Many homeowners don’t pay attention to the size of their pots and pans while cooking. They place them on any burner and get down to feeding the family. When cooking, you need to make sure that the size of the utensil matches the burner size. For example, using a 4-inch pot on an 8-inch will result in heat loss. And if you put an 8-inch pan on a 4-inch burner, it will take longer to heat. In both these cases, the mismatch causes heat loss. For the best results, you need to use that burner, which matches the size of your cooking utensil. It will help you cook efficiently without any excessive power consumption or heat loss.

4. Plan A Heating Inspection – Its the holiday season and celebrations are on. You will not want your heating system to give any trouble at such a time. The best way to avoid this unwanted situation is by scheduling the inspection of your heating system by a trained professional. They will ensure that everything is working fine and will continue to do without any unpleasant surprises. If the technician discovers a problem in the making, it can be taken care of timely through repair or replacement, as the case may be. In any case, when you need it the most, your heating system will work to your satisfaction and cause no trouble.

5. Attic Insulation – In order to save a few dollars, many homeowners make the mistake of leaving the attic uninsulated or poorly insulated. In either case, when there is a drop in temperature, you will realize that your home is not warm enough. It happens because the heat escapes through the attic. Properly insulating the attic will not let the warm air escape the confines of your home. It will keep the heat trapped inside and provide your family and guests with a cozy and comfortable environment to enjoy the holiday season.

Other Helpful Holiday Heating Tips   

If you are all into making your home warm and welcoming this holiday season without adding to your utility bills and heating service repair costs, here are a few other things that you can do:

1. Change your air filters periodically.
2. Make sure that the vents and registers are not blocked unknowingly.
3. Use programmable thermostats.
4. Add area rugs on the floor and throw blankets on the couches.
5. Consider wearing a warm layer of clothing and using warm blankets at night.
6. Ensure that all the doors and windows are properly sealed, so that warm air does not escape and cool air does not enter your home.
7. Use the reverse setting on your ceiling fan for quickly warming your home. This will push down the warm air and maximize the heat that is generated by the heating unit.
8. During the daytime, pull back the blinds and curtains and allow the sunlight to filter indoors and warm your home naturally.

Remember

Always begin your holiday season with the scheduled maintenance of your heating system. This will keep your heating service repair costs to a minimum. A system that is well taken care of will stand you in good stead. It will not break down when you need it the most. Instead, it will work at its best during that time. 

If you have still not scheduled the maintenance of your heating system, now is the time to do so. The experts at Aztil AC are here for you, always and anytime. The residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, can contact us at +1-888-729-8452. 

If you are wondering what a thermostat is, it is that device mounted on the wall indoors that senses the ambient temperature and adjusts it as per your need. The key to maintaining the desired temperature in your home lies in a good thermostat. If your thermostat is functioning properly, half your heating and cooling headaches are already over. If your thermostat is outdated (manual thermostat) or malfunctioning, you may want to invest in a new one. Very few homeowners are actually aware of the fact that today when it comes to thermostats, you have many options available. We will not discuss all of them, rather, just the two that are crowd favorite at the moment – smart and programmable thermostats.   

What Are Programmable Thermostats?

As the name itself suggests, a programmable thermostat is the one that can be programmed to heat or cool your home as you deem fit. It allows automatic adjustment of the heating and cooling system so that you need not constantly tweak your thermostat every day when you go to the office or come back home. They can be programmed as per your convenience. For example, you can program your thermostat to shut down the HVAC system half an hour after you leave for office and restart it an hour before you are due back home. If you have a 5 day work week, you can program the thermostat to do the above activity Monday to Friday and work incessantly through Saturday and Sunday.

What Are Smart Thermostats?

Smart thermostats are a major stride in IoT or the “Internet Of Things”, connecting devices through wifi. These are programmable thermostats that can easily connect to your wifi system and give you the option to control them remotely with a smart device like your smartphone. Their added benefit is that you can track your energy usage and better program your smart thermostat to result in bigger savings. You need not be home to make these changes. In fact, you can do so while away on a holiday to some distant nation. As long as you have internet connectivity, you can make the necessary changes anytime, anywhere.  

Pros And Cons Of Programmable Thermostats

1. Pros – The programable thermostats are better than manual ones as they don’t require constant monitoring. They can be programmed to preferred temperature settings for set times. Once that is done, you need not monitor it constantly other than to check the battery level. The thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature as per the preset levels.

2. Cons – It fails to provide any extra information like your energy consumption so that you may take the necessary steps to further lower it. Neither does it allow you to schedule any events like a vacation. So if you forget to change the settings while away, you will not get another chance to do so until you are back. 

Pros And Cons Of Smart Thermostat

1. Pros – A smart thermostat has all the benefits of a programmable thermostat and some more. You can pre-program it, schedule events, monitor your energy consumption, etc. It also minimizes the running time by using the weather and system performance data and making adjustments to the preset for the best performance. The icing on the cake is the fact that it has wifi connectivity so you can make changes to the preset from anywhere and at any time of your choosing. You can also monitor your energy consumption online, again, anytime, and anywhere.

2. Cons – Technologically challenged people may find it a little hard to get accustomed to so many smart features. Other than that, the only two drawbacks of smart thermostats are they are a bit more expensive than the programmable thermostats, and they quickly use up batteries due to constant wifi connectivity. It would be best if you were diligent in monitoring the battery level to make sure that your thermostat functions without giving any errors.

Who Are Programmable Thermostats Meant For?

Programmable thermostats are meant for the regular working-class people who have fixed schedules. They go to the office at a fixed time and come back at a fixed time. Having a fixed routine makes it easy to program the thermostat as per their schedule.

Who Are Smart Thermostats Meant For?

Smart thermostats are for the jet setting class. People who travel often and at short notice need these. In addition, those people who work in shifts, do not have a fixed time to go to the office or come back will also benefit from using smart thermostats. With good wifi connectivity, they can program their thermostat from anywhere without any worries.

The Best Thermostat For You

If you have a manual thermostat, the first order of business is to upgrade. If you don’t travel too much and have a fixed daily schedule, you can upgrade to a programmable thermostat. However, if you do not stick to a fixed routine, you will benefit more by using a smart thermostat.

Additionally, you also need to see which thermostat is compatible with your HVAC. It is not necessary that your HVAC will accept a smart thermostat, though the chances of it accepting a programmable thermostat are pretty high. Most modern, HVAC systems readily accept smart thermostats, so you will have to first check. You can take the help of your local HVAC company to help you figure this out.

Final Thoughts

Both smart and programmable thermostats are a definite upgrade over the manual ones. And the time has come for you to switch to either if you are still using the traditional analog thermostat. These thermostats are digital and hence, far easy to understand. Programming them is also not a big deal. Depending on your lifestyle and the configuration of your HVAC system, you can choose either. They are any day better than manual thermostats and save you a significant amount in energy bills.

If you still have any concerns or need any further clarification, the elite team of Aztil AC will be glad to be of help. 

Simply buying the right equipment does not guarantee flawless operations always. Yes, it still has a bearing on how well the unit works. So to get the maximum out of your heat pump, you not only need to buy the most appropriate system but also bear in mind certain do’s and don’ts. When you have a heat pump system at home for heating and cooling, there are literally twice the possibilities when something starts malfunctioning. When something does go wrong, as it surely will because the heat pump is but a machinery, many questions come to your mind. Could this have been prevented? Can I repair it myself? These are natural queries, and we to answer them by sharing a few heat pump repair do’s and don’ts with you. These tips will come very handy to homeowners and guarantee longer life for the heat pump.

Do’s And Dont’s Of Heat Pump Repair

1. Maintenance Is The Key – Often, homeowners forget the importance of timely and periodic maintenance of their heat pump. Maintenance ensures that your heat pump keeps working efficiently without breaking down. Timely maintenance will not only help you save on your utility bills but will also lower the cost of repairs if any. It prevents unnecessary wear and tear of the components and keeps them running smoothly for a very long time.

2. Adjust Thermostat To Most Appropriate Temperature – Cranking the thermostat up or down to make your home comfortable quicker is but a folly. The thermostat should be adjusted as per the recommended temperature setting for that season. Any variations will force your unit to work under strain. It will not only decrease its efficiency but may also result in unnecessary repairs. Other than that, invest in a digital thermostat as it is easy to use and not at all confusing like the analog one. Keep an eye on its battery level so that you can switch them before they start causing trouble with the performance of the thermostat.

3. Use Higher Fan Speed – If you wish to warm or cool your home faster, consider using a higher fan speed. You can also switch on the ceiling fan to further quicken the process. Increasing fan speed is any day a better option than setting the temperature too high or too low to get the same effect. It maintains the efficiency of your heat pump and does not put it under any undue pressure.

4. Refrain From Using The “Auto” Setting – Homeowners often think that the “Auto” setting on the thermostat is the best as it will automatically crank up the heat or lower it. They also assume that this setting makes it unnecessary for them to keep an eye on the thermostat. Alas, they are completely wrong in their assumption. When the family is away from home, the Auto” setting will still heat or cool your home as if the members were still indoor and enjoying a comfortable atmosphere. This is an unnecessary wastage of electricity. Also, many times the unit unnecessarily fluctuates between heating and cooling wheen set on “Auto” mode. A far better option is to set the desired temperature and switch off the thermostat when leaving home for an extended period of time.

5. Remove All Surrounding Debris – Cleanliness is of utmost importance. If the unit itself, along with its surrounding areas, is clean, your heat pump will work without giving you any troubles. If there are accumulations in or around the unit, they are bound to hamper its efficiency and put the system under undue stress. 

6. Change Air Filters Regularly – Air filters trap floating particles and get clogged over a period of time. Changing them frequently ensures that the air flows freely without any hindrances. It allows the system to breathe in and out without any restrictions. When the air flows freely, your home reaches a comfortable temperature far more efficiently and quickly.

7. Check For Leaks That May Be Dripping Water Into The Unit – Often, the gutters on the roof get blocked and drip water directly into your outdoor unit. This can cause short circuits and even other damage. Ensure that your gutters are clean so that no water is trapped in them and drains out quickly.

8. Check Refrigerant Levels – At the time of maintenance and even while getting any repairs done, you should ask the technician to check the level of refrigerant. If it is low, you need to get it replenished and seal the point of the leak. Checking the refrigerant levels regularly ensures that you can take timely action to prevent any major leaks. It will also keep your unit working efficiently without the scare of it shutting down. 

9. Don’t Carry Our Repairs On Your Own – As a homeowner, at the most, you have a very basic knowledge of the heat pump or any part thereof. Hence, you should refrain from carrying out DIY repairs. If you still do so, it may put the warranty of your equipment under risk and may also lead to extensive and expensive repairs. The HVAC technicians fee is any day a far cheaper expenditure than the above-mentioned scenario.

10. Only Allow A Trained Professional To Check Your Heat Pump – Don’t try and save on the fee by hiring a cheap and untrained technician though they will claim to have complete knowledge and training. The biggest give of these con artists is the fact that they charge super low. So, low that you think why to waste money by hiring a costly technician when you can get the same job done for a throw-away price by somebody else. These scammers can do more harm to the heat pump with their limited knowledge. A trained technician, on the other hand, will follow all the safety regulations and take full ownership of the work done. 

Food For Thought

Your home is your haven, and the heat pump is its lifeline. If you take proper care of the heat pump through periodic maintenance, timely repairs, and not putting it under any unwanted stress, it will work efficiently for many years to come. Only allow trained professionals and experts in heat pumps to see to its cleaning, repairs, and maintenance. Other than that, kick back and enjoy the comforts of your home.

Today, the options available to a homeowner when it comes to heating and cooling systems are many. If you, too, are considering installing the same, this article is meant just for your eyes. Technology has advanced so much that you don’t really need big and cumbersome equipment anymore. In fact, energy efficiency can be reached with smaller ones as well. One such option is the ductless heating and cooling system. It provides heating and cooling as efficiently as the traditional split ACs and provides more flexibility in maintaining varying degrees of temperature in each section of the house.

What Are Ductless Heating And Cooling Systems?

A ductless heating and cooling system or the ductless heat pump and air conditioner consist of a wall-mounted air handler or the indoor unit. It is combined with an outdoor unit or the compressor via a conduit. Sometimes this system is also referred to as the mini-split system, multi-split systems, or the split-ductless systems.

The ductless units can be installed in old as well as new homes, new construction, condos, and apartments. You can use these to improve temperature control in individual rooms or zones. The ductless systems can also be used in buildings that presently use ducted forced-air systems.

5 Advantages Of Ductless Heating And Cooling Systems

Frankly speaking, the ductless systems are the latest rage with the homeowners and rightly so. Let us have a look at the prime reasons why everybody wants them:

1. Flexibility Of Usage – With multiple air handlers having their own thermostats, homeowners can maintain different zones at different temperatures. Additionally, those rooms or areas of the home that are not always in use can have their air handlers switched off. This way, you can not only maintain the temperature that each member of your family desires in their respective rooms, but you can also cool or heat only those rooms that are in use. Such flexibility of operations is not readily available in the traditional split systems giving the ductless system a definitive edge. 

2. Cost Savings – Utility costs have increased everywhere. No country remains untouched. At such times the monthly power bills tend to make a significant dent in your finances. The good news is that the ductless systems use less power to cool your home. They are small in size and still render efficient cooling with lower power consumption, thereby reducing the monthly utility bills. On top of that, the flexibility of operations allowing you to shut down the air handlers in rooms that are not in use provides even greater savings. You are not unnecessarily forced to run the heating and cooling system for the rooms where it is not currently required. Another point of interest for the homeowners is the fact that the ductless heating and cooling systems are cheaper than the traditional split systems. The year you install a ductless system in your home, you are eligible for utility rebates or tax credits even.  

3. Lower Carbon Footprint – As mentioned above, the ductless systems provide greater energy efficiency. In fact, they follow the “ENERGY STAR” regulations. It translates to the reality that they are more energy-efficient than the basic standards set by the federal government of the United States Of America. Enhanced efficiency not only saves money, but it also lowers your carbon footprint. Adding to its immense popularity is also the fact that ductless systems gain from the strides made in chemistry and technology to reduce the harmful effects on our environment. The refrigerant used in the ductless systems is R410A, which is safe for the environment as it does not cause the depletion of the ozone layer. So it has a minimal adverse impact on the environment for as long as it is in use.

4. Easy To Install – The only consideration while installing the ductless system is that the air handler should be able to freely throw in the air directly into the room. It should not be placed at the end of a long gallery or a restricted corner. Other than that, you can hide it inside the false ceiling or hang it from there, mount it on the sidewalls, embed it in the flooring, etc. If you compare this to a ducted system, you will realize how precise the process of setting up the ductwork has to be. Add to it the disruption to your daily life that the installation of the ducts causes, and you will realize what a breeze the installation of the ductless system is. Not only is it quick and easy, but also far less invasive, causing no restrictions in your everyday routine.   

5. Improve Indoor Air Quality – More often than not, homeowners tend to allow the indoor air quality to deteriorate. So much so that, at times, outdoor air is much healthier than indoor air quality. Installing a good heating and cooling system takes care of this problem by removing the allergens from inside the home and making the air circulating inside healthier. The traditional heating and cooling systems often require professional cleaning of the ducts to maintain clean and hygienic air inside. However, professional cleaning is an additional expense, one you can do without, by installing the ductless system in your home. The ductless systems comprise of a multi-stage filtration system that traps all the allergens and particle matter floating in the air and prevent them from becoming a part of the circulating air.

Food For Thought

The Ductless air conditioning and heating systems are a Godsend in today’s time. A time when the power bills are rising, maintenance costs are increasing, and fulfilling one’s environmental duty is becoming challenging. At such a time, the ductless systems provide not only energy efficiency and customization ability but also helps one fulfill their environmental duty by lowering their carbon footprint. They cater to each individual’s temperature preference and make your home comfortable for all the family members.

If you have any further questions with respect to the heating and cooling systems, feel free to contact AztilAC. We will be glad to be of assistance in any which way we can.

Modern-day air conditioners are not loud anymore. They may not exactly be silent, but other than a gentle hum; you would hardly ever hear another sound coming from it. If, however, you do, it may be alarming and may indicate towards the beginning of some problem. Hence, it is best not to ignore and weird noise emanating from the AC.

Reasons For The Noise

Your air conditioner is but a machinery that consists of many components. With time and constant use, they become loose, fall apart, or develops holes and cracks. These deterioration are the primary cause of air conditioner noises. Most of these sounds can be dealt with during periodic maintenance, but for others, you may need technical repairs. These repairs are best carried out by trained and competent HVAC technicians. 

Types Of Air Conditioner Noises And Their Probable Causes

Here is the list of some of the most common sounds that your air conditioner might make along with their probable cause. This information will help narrow down the problem area. We would strictly advise that you only allow a trained professional to corroborate the problem and rectify it as soon as possible.

1. Hissing – Your air conditioner would make a hissing sound when there is a leak of some sort. It could either be a compressor issue, damage to the refrigerant, or the coolant line an internally leaking valve.

2. Banging – If there is a loose, broken, or a hanging part in your air conditioner, it will make a banging noise. Another reason could be that the indoor blower is not correctly aligned. The sound will usually be periodic and constant in nature.

3. Clicking – At start-up and shut down, if you hear clicking sounds, that’s pretty normal. However, if they continue thereafter as well, you have an issue on hand. A defective control, as well as a failing thermostat, will ideally make such noise. Again, this is something that only a trained technician can check and tell.

4. Squealing – Usually, the squealing sound comes from the AC when parts that rub against each other. In some cases, when the fan motor and the blower motor are going bad, you will hear the same sound.

5. Sparking – The sound of sparking is very distinctive. Typically, it is a low-intensity chattering sound that may be accompanied by visible sparks or smoke. Its cause could be overheated parts or loose wires rubbing each other. Sparking should never be taken lightly as it can lead to short-circuits and, in extreme cases, fires.

6. Crackling – An old and aging unit produces crackling noise. These sounds can be heard inside the house when your ductwork is old. If your unit is not old, the reason for the noise could be debris accumulated in the outdoor unit. Such sounds will only be heard when you are outdoors. 

7. Groaning – A loud groaning noise whenever the compressor kicks in is indicative of issues with the compressor unit. It could also arise due to a faulty damper. Only an HVAC technician will be able to tell you the exact reason.

Can I Keep My AC Running Even With The Strange Sounds?

Aztil AC recommends that any strange sound coming from your air conditioner should not be taken lightly. At such a time, switch it off and call your local HVAC technician. Not all sounds mean a big problem. But it is always better to err on the side of caution rather than be remorseful later as you cannot determine its true cause. If you still decide to run your air conditioner, you are doing so at your own risk. 

What To Do When You Hear Air Conditioner Noises?

Most often, you would want to keep running your AC even when it is making weird noises, especially during the peak of summers. Wanting to do so does not mean that you actually should. 

The first thing you should do when you hear any strange noise coming from your AC is to switch it off. Doing so will ensure that the problem does not aggravate. Second, call your HVAC company to send a technician to look into the cause of the issue. Third, once the problem is pinpointed, ask them to make the necessary repairs so that your unit once again starts functioning normally. 

Are All Noises An Indication Of Biggers Problems To Come?

No, all air conditioner noises do not mean that your unit is failing. Mostly it will be a lack of periodic maintenance that will be the cause of the strange sounds. So, a regular tune-up of your AC will keep most of them at bay. As a part of maintenance, the loose parts will be tightened, the rubbing components greased or oiled, and all dirt and debris cleaned. Should the reason for the noise be one of these, it will be automatically handled. 

If the sound persists in spite of the tune-up, it could be due to a failing component in an aging AC. This is normal, and you can see to the replacement or repair of the faulty component to extend the life of your system. When these problems are ignored and left unattended, they morph into bigger issues. It increases the cost of repairs and, in most unfavorable cases, even results in the system shutting down. 

Tips To Reduce Noise Levels

1. See to it that your air conditioner gets annual maintenance from trained technicians.
2. Your unit may have been incorrectly installed in a place where the sound reverberates and seems long drawn out or loud. Hence, ask for a professional opinion.
3. If needed, you can install sound dampers. It is especially helpful in old buildings where the sound echoes and also in air conditioners that are old.

Aztil AC For All Your Air Conditioner Needs

Aztil AC consists of a team of professionals who are dedicated to looking after all your air conditioner needs. In addition to regular tune-up and maintenance, we also install and repair ACs. If you need any such assistance with your air conditioner or HVAC, you can contact us at 888-729-8452.