Air Conditioning: Things You Need a Contractor For

When it comes to air conditioners, there are a lot of things you can do with nothing but a search engine, some ingenuity and your local hardware store. However, there are still things that you will need outside help with; things that are utterly beyond even the most determined Googler and expert DIY aficionado. The biggest one of all is air conditioning repair and maintenance which is one of those things that can be both expensive and dangerous to try to do yourself. Attempting to repair your AC unit without professional help can result in both a more expensive repair and exposure to deadly chemicals (which also could mean a hospital visit and paying even more money as a result).

If it is necessary to call a professional in to perform maintenance on your AC, you want to make sure it is done safely and accurately. This should include the following:

-Removing internal debris from your AC unit
-Cleaning away mold and other types of growth
-Replacing the filter
-Wiping down pans, water collections as well as the various fins, motors and coils

Now, this might sound quite straightforward and there are certainly some things on that list (such as changing the filter) which are within the abilities of your average air conditioner owner and don't necessarily require a pro to get done safely. However, the problem is that many owners tend to clean rather roughly and unintentionally damage their AC unit while they're trying to clean it. Also, many of the parts have quite the build-up of dirt and other kinds of residue by the time they get cleaned so many owners simply do not know how much force to use and go all-out which can result in long-term damage to the parts in question.

The benefit to hiring a professional to do this work is that they know exactly what the right amount of force needed to clean the various parts is. They are also in the right position to keep an eye out for unforeseen problems you may have overlooked which crop up during the cleaning process, therefore allowing you to see to those problems as they are discovered rather than you having to call them back because you cleaned your motor to vigorously and your AC unit is now making a strange noise and only putting out half the air it used to or something like that. Give us a call today!

These AC Unit Warning Signs Show Need of Repair

As we are entering the warmer months, the last thing you need is a broken AC unit. If you suspect your AC needs repair, it's a good idea to call for help as soon as possible. If the issue gets delayed, the condition could worsen to the point of total replacement. It's the difference between spending a few hundred dollars and a few thousand. But how are you supposed to know when the AC unit needs repair?

Does Your AC Unit Have Restricted Air Flow?

Particular signs show something is wrong. One of the most noticeable signs is the unit blows out warm air even when set on a cooler temperature. Make sure your AC is in cold temperature mode. There may be an air duct blockage, a clogged filter, or a compressor problem.

Does Your AC Cycle too Much?

Another red flag for AC maintenance is the constant cycling of the unit. It turns on more often but without producing efficient cooling. Also, pay attention to your air quality. Is there a mildew scent coming from the AC? Is your home too humid? Have the filter replaced for breathing cleaner air. With above-average moisture levels in your house, the AC needs inspection.

 Is Your AC Unit Making Any Unusual Noises?

Strange noises such as buzzing, whistling, grinding, or squealing are other signs. A slipped belt, a piece not lubricated, or broken motor bearings can all cause noises. Quick repairs and part replacement are essential.

Is Your AC Dripping or Leaking?

If your AC is leaking, let us know right away! We can resolve it fast before water damage becomes a bigger problem. Also, look for any significant changes to your utility bill. It could increase without delivering the usual results and shows inefficiency.

Plan and Arrange for Routine Maintenance

It is better to get routine checks and regular maintenance. Simple fixes are more affordable than total AC unit replacement. AC units last about 15 to 20 years. Having it checked out every so often will increase its longevity.

Reach Out to Us at Any Time

We understand that surprise repairs may leave you unprepared, especially during this pandemic. Do not let the fear of repair cost prevent you from reaching out to us. We cannot allow you to go without AC in the heat of the summer. Talk to us about setting up an affordable payment plan. We will do our best to have your AC unit functioning with clean air quality. Call us if any of the signs arise. We will be there!

Why Are Certain Rooms Colder Than Others?

Have you noticed that certain rooms in your home are noticeably colder than others? This can be caused by heating issues, but there may be other factors at play as well. If you have a home with uneven heating, give these causes some consideration.

Contributing Heating Factors
It may not that your home unevenly heating at all, but rather some rooms are just getting extra heat. For example, if you have been cooking dinner in the kitchen, you can expect it to be warmer compared to a back bedroom on the other side of the home. Electronics, such as computers, can also be a factor at warming smaller individual rooms.

Poor Insulation
Insulation is crucial regulating the temperature in your home. If insulation is missing or worn down in one room compared to everywhere else, you will definitely notice it. It often make the room feel more drafty. This will make people look to the windows when the problem is really what is in the wall, or rather, what isn't in the walls.

Duct Leaks
The ducts in your home ferry treated air around your home, but if they have breaches, you may notice that some rooms do not get as warm as others. This is usually the case in rooms far from the thermostat since the thermostat cannot accurately measure the temperature there.

Undersized Equipment
This is the least likely cause unless you have recently had a new heating system installed. Undersized equipment means the heating system is too small for the needs in your home. In some cases, the heating system is simply installed too far away from certain rooms. In these cases, you may want to consider calling the installation company and telling them of these issues right away. If it is a long-standing problem, supplemental heating may be necessary. Contact us today to sign up for a maintenance agreement to ensure you don’t run into any of these problems!

How to Choose A Heater or Furnace For Your Home

Choosing the appropriate heating system for your house may be a difficult task. Although it varies depending on the system, it typically lasts around ten to 20 years. As a result, it's critical to think carefully about all of your choices before making a decision.

What is the difference between a heating system and a furnace?

A furnace and a heater are very different systems. Often, homeowners will mistakenly think they can fix their furnace by simply adding some heat to the property or vice versa. Unfortunately, this is not the case at all. Both of these heating methods have entirely different functions and uses. Additionally, both of them need professional installation for them to work safely.

Furnaces

A furnace can be either forced-air or hot water. A furnace uses propane, oil, natural gas or electricity to heat the air within your house and then send that warm air into different parts of your home through duct work. Forced-air furnaces use a blower fan to circulate the heated air throughout the property. On the other hand, hot water furnace systems use heated water to create warmth in your home.

A furnace is ideal for buildings with multiple floors because it can efficiently move warm air around the entire house with its duct work system. If you're planning on using the furnace only during certain seasons of the year (i.e., summer or winter), then this furnace is probably right for you.

Heaters

A heater works like a furnace in that it converts fuel into heat and then sends warm air throughout the property. However, there are two significant differences between these heating systems: 1) a heater doesn't require ducts to circulate hot air; this means that homeowners only need vents placed around their property and 2) heaters typically cost less than furnaces.

Depending on the heater you choose, these heating systems can be powered by either gas, oil or electricity. If your furnace does not have a duct system to distribute air throughout your house, this is probably right for you because it will only need vents to circulate warmth.

What is the best type of heating system for my home?

Your furnace or heater needs to match the size of your house and the building's structure. For example, if you have a large home with high ceilings, it would be best to get a furnace that can distribute heat throughout all parts of your property so everything is warm.

Additionally, if you plan to use only certain seasons, consider getting either a gas furnace or electric heater, depending on which fuel type will better serve your heating needs in those months. Most homes require both systems because they're ideal for each season: Furnaces are great during cold weather, while heaters work just fine during hot weather when homeowners need warmth without humidity and air conditioning costs skyrocketing.

It's also important to consider the long-term costs of a furnace or heater. If you're able to, try out furnaces and heaters in your property with friends before purchasing one for yourself so you can get a feel for what works best in your house. Also, check which system is more comfortable during cold and hot months, because comfort plays a vital role in choosing heating systems.

Another consideration will be safety features like carbon monoxide detectors if any individuals living in the home have respiratory problems, since gas furnace systems release this pollutant into your air throughout their duration of use.

A furnace or heater might seem complicated at first glance, but that's not true at all - think about how much time they save homeowners per year on energy costs!

Do I need to hire an HVAC contractor?

Yes!

You might be tempted to install your furnace or heater on your own, but that's not safe, and you could end up causing more damage than good. Since HVAC systems are complicated, only a trained professional should handle furnace installation or furnace repair. There is simply too much risk involved in heating equipment, so don't try to handle furnace installation yourself!

Please stay safe and hire an HVAC contractor to help you when it comes time for furnace or heater repairs and furnace installation. New England Cooling Towers, Inc is here to be your go-to HVAC contractor. Contact us today!

 

3 Reasons To Call A Heating Service Company

When it comes to any type of work on your furnace, it is likely in your best interest to call a professional for the job. A heating service has trained professionals who know how to work with your furnace and will do all that they can to meet your needs. Here are three great reasons to call a heating service.

You Need A Furnace Inspection Before You Turn It On
Before you turn your furnace on for the year, it is very important that you take the time to have it inspected. A professional will be able to come to your home and do a full inspection of your furnace, as well as any maintenance that needs to be done. They will then start your furnace and make sure that it functions properly for you. This ensures your furnace runs well and that you keep nice and warm on the cold winter days.

Your Furnace Is Overheating
If you find that your furnace is overheating in an effort to try and warm your home, then you want to call a professional to come and look at it right away. An overheating furnace is not only ineffective at heating your home, but it can also become very dangerous if it isn't fixed quickly. The likely cause of an overheating furnace is build-up that has clogged the duct of the furnace, making it difficult for the hot air to come out and spread through your home. A professional will be able to safely and effectively remove the clog, or whatever the issue is, and get your furnace functioning as it should once again.

You Are Having Duct Issues
If you find that you have damage to the duct work in your home, such as cracks or leaks, this may cause the warm air that comes out of your furnace to turn cold before it reaches you. Hiring a professional from a heating service to come and inspect and repair your duct work is an excellent way to get your ducts fixed properly. Give us a call today!

Four Top Energy-Smart, Money-Saving Furnace and Heating Tips

 The U.S. Department of Energy spotlights the impact that heating has on typical energy bills, accounting for nearly half of your home's energy usage at 42 percent. So, it makes good sense to concentrate on applying smart furnace and heating tips to deliver a noticeable impression on household consumption and your wallet. This winter tackle high heating bills with these four approaches.

1. Have Your Furnace Serviced
Furnace tune-ups prepare your equipment for extended use during chilly winter months. A trained HVAC technician performs checks and calibrations on the various components of your furnace and heating system. A thorough exam ranges from gas burner and inlet pressure checks to thermostat and vent system inspections and an overall operation review. Problems, potential breakdowns, and energy-draining issues can be identified and addressed before they compromise the efficiency of your system and drain your wallet.

2. Minimize Drafts
You lose up to a quarter of the heated air in your home through drafty windows and doors. Keep that warm air from escaping by sealing those cracks and drafts with weather-stripping, caulk, or foam. Even hanging blinds or thicker curtains during the winter can help minimize heat loss. If it's in your budget, consider upgrading your windowpanes for better insulation.

3. Be Smart About Your Windows
Keeping warm air from escaping isn't the only way to ensure your windows aren't wasting energy and costing you money. Ensure you're paying attention during warmer times of the day and take advantage of nature's heating unit – the sun. Open blinds and window coverings on the windows in your home that face south during warm hours. Then close them before it becomes cooler to help trap that natural heat indoors.

4. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats give you more control over your heating system. They offer energy savings and support more comfort while applying smart home heating practices. Set it for 68°F during the periods when you're indoors, awake and active. Program it for between 58°F and 61°F while you're sleeping and when you're not home. These simple adjustments can lower your heating bills and reduce energy waste. With the programmable option, you enjoy convenience and more heating consistency.

Call on our team of professionals for furnace and heating service, repair and HVAC equipment installation to help keep your home toasty during cold weather months.

5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Air Conditioner's Performance

As temperatures climb, you rely on your air conditioner to keep you comfortable. Your cooling system is one of your home's biggest energy expenses. That's why it's important to make sure you're getting the best performance from your air conditioner. Read on to learn how to improve your air conditioner's performance this summer.

Keep Vents Clear
Make sure your indoor supply vents aren't blocked by furniture, curtains, or toys. All of the vents in your home should be open and clear. Vacuum and dust around the vents to help keep them clean and maintain airflow.  

Keep Windows Covered
When direct sunlight hits your windows, your home will heat up quickly. Your air conditioner will work hard to keep you cool. Closing your curtains and blinds during the day will reduce the amount of heat entering your home, which will reduce the strain on your cooling system.  

Turn Up the Thermostat
Adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees can save energy and reduce your cooling bills up to 10 percent. A programmable thermostat lets you set the temperature on a pre-set schedule. You can raise the temperature when you are away from home, then lower it shortly before you arrive. With a smart thermostat, you can even adjust the temperature from your smartphone.   

Change Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter can interfere with airflow and lower the performance of your air conditioner. Changing your air filters regularly will ensure your A/C keeps running efficiently. Replacing the air filters will also help to improve your indoor air quality. Most air filters should be replaced once per month.    

Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenance
Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure you're getting the best performance from your air conditioner. A properly maintained cooling system lasts longer, works more efficiently, and saves you money on your cooling costs.

Contact us to learn more about the air conditioning maintenance services we offer.