Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Blog: Archive for the ‘A/C and Heating’ Category

The Expert’s Guide to DIY Air Conditioning Repair

There are times when you need AC repair and you’ll have to call in the pros to handle the job to ensure that your air conditioner is working in prime condition. However, there are also those times when your AC may just demand a little more attention from you.

Trust that it won’t take very long to give your air conditioning system a few quick inspections and corrections. Here are a few simple AC repairs that help get your unit working the way it was intended to.

Clean the Debris Around Your Unit

Don’t neglect the outside of your unit because you’ll need to keep it cleaned and cared for in order to prevent AC repair. If the unit isn’t working properly or you hear strange noises coming from the outside, it might be as simple as removing old sticks and debris that have fallen due to a storm that has passed.

Take Time to Examine the Ducts

You don’t want to lose any air because your ducts are leaking or they are clogged, so be sure you clean them out. Check the ducts if the air flow isn’t strong, and have the experts come in and clean them if you think that this is the problem but aren’t sure how to resolve it.

Change Your Filters Based on Your Home

Changing your filters once a month is a practice that you need to stay on top of, but also take the time to survey your home and the amount of dander that you produce. If it’s just you and one or two other people living in the space, then you should be fine. However, if you have dogs, cats, and a lot of people walking through your space on a regular basis, you may need to change the filters out more often.

Turn off the HVAC System to Melt Ice

If you notice a lot of ice building up around your unit, turn it off and let it melt away. If this becomes a common occurrence, then you’ll want to call in the pros to ensure that you have the problem corrected before it becomes more expensive.

Make Sure Your Thermostat Is Doing Its Job

Check and make sure your thermostat is reading the correct temperatures and that it is adjusting as it should. If not, it may be time to upgrade to a model that will allow you to change temps remotely from your phone. A new thermostat will not only make your life easier – it will save you money on your energy bill.

Check the Breaker

We’ve all done it before – thought something was broken only to discover it isn’t plugged in. When you think you need an AC repair because it suddenly stopped working, check the breaker to make sure a fuse wasn’t blown.

If any of these techniques don’t correct the problem, then it might be time to bite the bullet and call in the pros to ensure you have a durable unit.

Why You Should Leave Some AC Repair To The Professionals

While every homeowner can do things around the house to improve the efficiency and lifespan of their HVAC system, there are some reasons why you should call a professional. When it comes to more complicated repairs, here is why we recommend calling Peaden:

You Spend Money on Tools and Equipment

Now there are some aspects of AC repair that homeowners can tackle on their own, and that you will have everything at your home for. However, as the problem gets bigger and more complicated, you will find yourself running around town trying to find the right tools and equipment.

Plus, not all tutorials will be clear about the exact tools you need and it will feel like trial and error. When you don’t use the proper tools and techniques when it comes to AC repair, trust that you can do more harm than good.

You Lose Your Weekend

While you may think the AC repair will only take a little bit of time, when you aren’t confident with what you are doing or familiar with the process, you may not realize how much time you will log. When the first repair you perform does not fix the issue, you will find yourself continuing further down the rabbit hole to learn what is wrong. Going this route can add hours, if not days, to your AC repair.

You May Not Be Aware of the Safety Procedures

Trying to repair your cooling system can not only result in a loss of time and money, but it can be dangerous. When you do not understand the components of an air conditioning, then it is crucial that you let the exerts handle repairs to ensure you stay safe.

You May or May Not Fix the Problem

When you DIY AC repair, you may or may not completely fix the problem, or worse yet, you have an emergency during the process and have to turn your unit off until the pros can arrive and take a look. If you do think you fixed the issue, there is a chance that it will return later, and you never know when this can happen from the middle of the night to during a gathering of friends.

You Can Spend More Money Than Calling in the Pros

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Florida residents are no stranger to brutally hot summer temperatures, and they know the importance of having an effective air conditioning unit to combat the heat. But what about those cooler nights during our (fairly mild) winters?

To meet year-round heating and cooling demands, you should consider having a heat pump professionally installed. Below, we’ll dive into how heat pumps operate and the benefits they offer.

So, What Is a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps run by transferring heat from one place to another, similar to a refrigerator. During the hot, humid summers in Florida, heat pumps extract the heat in your home and pump it outside to leave you with cool, refreshing air. In the winter, it transfers heat from the outdoors into your home.

These units are ideal for those looking for an energy-efficient, convenient unit that can provide both heating and cooling based on their needs. The types of heat pumps you can choose from include:

• Air-to-air heat pump or air-source heat pump (ASHP)
• Ductless mini-split heat pump
• Geothermal heat pump/water-to-air heat pump
• Absorption heat pump

How Heat Pumps Use Refrigerant to Transfer Heat

Refrigerant is a fluid that has a very low boiling point that can be manipulated by increasing or decreasing the pressure to absorb heat through phase transition. When these refrigerants change from a liquid to a gas it absorbs a lot of energy or heat. All air conditioning systems have heat pumps that use refrigerant. Air conditioning systems use relationship between pressure and temperature to transfer heat.

When the refrigerant changes from a liquid state to a gas state it absorbs heat at a high quantity.  Refrigerants have a low boiling point and they are used because they will boil at room temperature. The boiling point can be altered by adjusting the pressure of the refrigerant allow the system to control the evaporation of the refrigerant.

What Can Go Wrong With Your Heat Pump?

Heat pumps work hard to exceed your heating and cooling needs. Because they operate year-round and can produce both heat and air conditioning depending on what you and your home need, they’re typically met with more wear and tear and are inevitably at a higher risk of malfunctioning.

When this happens, you need a repair — and fast! Keep an eye out for signs a repair is due, including:

• Your system is short-cycling.
• Your unit isn’t producing adequate heating or cooling.
• You notice leaks or water pooling around your system.
• Your unit is emitting loud noises or bad odors.
• Your monthly bills are higher than usual.

Heat Pumps Have Your Back

Whether you need heat in the winter or cool air in the summer, heat pumps can provide both seamlessly. To ensure your heat pump is working at its best, you need to hire a professional for every heat pump service, and the team at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical has the tools to get each job done right the first time.

With over half a century of experience in the industry, our skilled technicians are eager to tackle your heat pump needs.

We’re excited to work with you! Let us make your heating and cooling dreams a reality and supply you with exceptional heat pump services.

Call [site_info_phone_number] or contact us online for booking appointments.

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Just because it is winter doesn’t mean you should just let your AC sit and collect dust. You should make sure it is working and in proper order. When the warmer weather hits, you want to make sure the air conditioning unit and system is going to be working properly. Far too many people just wait to deal with any problems there might be with the AC unit. Don’t wait. Choose to get ac repair help from Peaden AC experts if you are in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City.

Stop Wasting Money

Most people avoid getting their air conditioning unit fixed until the hot weather hits. Generally, this is mid-summer and they have already wasted a lot of money on their AC use. Sometimes the warmer weather hits early and you might use the AC unit a few times, before it gets very hot outside. Even these few times of use can be costing you more than they should. If you have your air conditioning unit looked at before you use it, you could save some money. Not only that, but many AC experts will have discounts on AC repairs at certain times throughout the year. Utilizing those discounts could save you money as well.

Don’t Be Inconvenienced

Another one of the reasons why you should not wait to have your AC repaired is to avoid any inconveniences. Peaden AC experts are here to fix your AC unit now. If you are in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City, you can get the AC repair services right away. Quality services are provided every time. If you wait until the hot weather hits, when Peaden and all other AC expert companies are busy, you may possibly have to wait days or even weeks to have your AC unit repaired. You can prevent the inconvenience by having your AC unit repaired or maintained during the winter or colder months.

Recalling Your Memory

Most people think back on the summer during the winter months. They think their AC system was working well. However, there may have been problems with it that you just don’t remember. Maybe the cold air didn’t blow out quite as far as it should. Your AC unit may have been blowing warmer air than it should have. There could be a range of issues with the AC unit that you just don’t remember, because you haven’t used it in awhile.

If you are in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City and you want to get your AC looked at now, be sure to get a hold of Peaden AC experts. You can stop wasting money when you use your air conditioner before it gets too hot. You won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of scheduling an AC repair visit in the summer and you will have all problems repaired before it gets hot outside.

Contact Peaden to schedule your AC repair visit sooner rather than later. You will be happy that you did.

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Knowing who to reach out to for your AC maintenance and repair needs can be an overwhelming feeling.  Are you getting a company with experience and knowledge?  Are you paying too much for repairs?  Will the job get done right the first time?  These are all concerns customers have when hiring an HVAC company.  Here is a checklist of what to ask an HVAC company before you hire them to complete an AC repair job.

Step 1: Ask For Credentials

Before you hire an AC company for necessary repairs, be sure to check credentials.  A reliable AC repair company should be licensed through the state.  Ask for any other certifications they may have such as the HVAC excellence certification program.  Technicians with necessary licensing and certification are more likely to have the knowledge and experience to complete your HVAC job and perform quality work.  You should also consider whether or not a company has liability insurance so that you are protected should something happen on the job.  

Step 2: Do Your Research In Advance

 Before you hire a company, get online and do the research.  Look up reviews and testimonials about previous work done by this company.  Relying on the experience of others, good or bad, can help you determine whether or not an HVAC company will be the right fit for you.

Step 3: Ask For References

Along with researching a company, get more information about their job performance by asking for references from customers who have previously used this HVAC company.  Employers ensure they are getting quality employees by checking references, and you should do the same when hunting for an HVAC company that can meet your needs.  Getting recommendations from others you trust is also a great way to ensure you are hiring a reliable, hard-working ac repair technician.

Step 4: Ask For Experience

Obviously, it is necessary to hire an HVAC company that has some experience under their belt.  Ask up front what experience an ac technician has.  You should also ask what experience they have had with other jobs relating to the repairs you need.  Technicians should be qualified and experienced so that you can have peace of mind the job will be completed correctly the first time.  While it may initially save money to do it on your own, or go with a new technician, in the long run, hiring someone without the necessary experience could lead to future repairs that end up being more costly than you originally thought.  Don’t take a chance on someone with minimal experience.  Entrust an established, professional HVAC company with the necessary skills and know how to complete a job.

Step 5: Get An Estimate

Before hiring an HVAC company, ask for an estimate.  Be sure you are getting a fair price but with quality service as well.  Ask for estimates and compare these prices with other companies.  Find a quality HVAC company at an affordable price.  The lowest price might not offer the most quality, so shoot for somewhere in the middle. 

You don’t want to have to be making the same HVAC repairs a few years later because you didn’t choose a reliable HVAC company.  Follow these steps to be sure you hire a company who can complete the job right the first time and save you time and money.

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When you call in an AC repair technician, you may be anxiously waiting for them to arrive to get your unit working in prime condition again. To help ensure the process goes smoothly, there are a few things that you can do before the arrival of the technician. While you may already do most of these, here is a quick checklist to help you prepare before your next AC repair so you don’t miss anything.

#1: Know the Age and Manufacturer of Your Unit

To help the AC repair technician learn more about your unit, you’ll want to have some basic information handy such as the age of the system, the brand, and the manufacturer. While the technicians will come prepared with tools and parts, the model can alert them to the inner workings, common issues and the specific parts that should be brought.

#2: Have Information Ready to Help Identify the Problem

Have information ready such as when the problem started occurring and any warning signs such as poor air flow or strange noises. You should also let the AC repair technician know how often you change filters and how often you have service calls. Even information that feels minor to you like your past energy bill can help move the process along faster and give the technician a better idea of what they are up against.

#3: Clear a Path Around the Unit

Make sure that the AC repair technician can easily get to the outside of the unit without too many obstacles. You can clear a path around the unit by removing any ladders, vines, and debris that is in the way. Safety is going to be the primary concern of the technician, and you want to make sure that they can reach and see all of the components easily.

#4: Learn About Finance Options

While you are preparing for the AC repair company to show up, you can learn about finance options and what getting a new unit would entail if that is recommended. The more you know about what your next steps are if a repair isn’t going to get the job done, the better prepared you’ll be if you need a new installation.

#5: Write down Questions and Take Notes

There are plenty of questions that will pop in your mind when you know the AC repair technician is coming, and this is the ideal opportunity to write them down so that you can get as much information as you can to care for your unit. Trust that the best technicians want you to save money and have fewer AC repairs, and they’ll be more than happy to guide you towards the best practices you can do at home to ensure this. And don’t forget to write down the answers to the questions you ask so that you can refer back to them when the time comes.

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We spend a lot of time inside of our homes, and many people don’t know how important our air conditioner and everyday activities are when it comes to the impact on the quality of air that we breathe. And even when protecting our health and the well being of our family is a top priority, we may not think about the air circulating through the vents. Here are a few ways to improve the air quality in your home so that you have peace of mind about what you breathe in.

Stay Proactive When It Comes to AC Repair

When you start to notice that your heating and cooling system isn’t doing its job at peak performance any more, then have a professional inspect it to see if you need an AC repair. Minor repairs will not only help keep your air quality in good shape, but it will give your unit longevity. On top of paying attention to how your unit is working, make sure you’re keeping up with filter changes to ensure the best air quality.

Vacuum and Remove Dust

Dust and dirt will create a space that promotes allergy flare-ups and can cause issues with breathing. By taking the time to remove the dust and vacuum on a regular basis, you’ll find that you not only have a more comfortable ambiance, but that the air is fresher. You’ll also save your system from requiring AC repair when you keep your space as free of dust and dirt as possible. You can also install a 4-inch, extra large pleated air filter to catch more airborne particulates.

Make Sure You Keep Your Home Ventilated

Keeping the air ventilating throughout your home is a good idea to keep infections and lung issues from occurring. You want fresh air to run through your house when possible, so start opening windows when the weather feels delightful outside! Be sure that you turn your air conditioning off when you do this so that you can give it a nice break and save money on your energy bill. Your unit shouldn’t have to run 24/7 all year long, and when you allow it to rest, you’ll find that your unit will last longer and need fewer AC repairs. Try using an ionic air purifier as well. The ions kill kill bacterial and use a negative charge to cause suspended airborne contaminants to clump together and fall out of the air so they can be cleaned.

Keep Up with Visual Inspections

Be on the lookout for mold and mildew around your unit and other areas of your home that are in darker and dampened areas. While these aren’t always something that you can avoid, you can proactively work to prevent them from occurring and keep up with visual inspections.

Let the HVAC Experts Perform a Yearly Service Call

AC repair professionals will know what to look for when want to learn more about the air quality inside your home. If this is a concern of yours, let them know because they’ll not only work to identify the problem, but can perform a yearly service call to get your system working correctly. When your unit is serviced annually, you’ll improve the air quality in your home and prevent many AC repairs that can happen when it’s neglected.

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We love our pets because they make life more enjoyable and are wonderful companions. However, while cats and dogs have their charms, they can also leave a mess behind. When it comes to AC repair and maintenance, you’ll find that pet owners will need to take a few extra steps. If you have a furry friend living in your home, here are five tips to help you prevent AC repair and ensure that everyone can relax in comfortable indoor temperatures.

#1: Change Filters More Frequently

In most cases, pets will bring in more dirt and dander that people will because of the way they love to roll in the grass and shake off as soon as they get in the front door. This means that your air conditioning filter is filling up faster with dirt and dander, and you’ll need to clean it more frequently. If your filter is almost clogged when you change it every four weeks, go ahead and change your filter every three weeks to see if that makes a difference.

#2: Try to Brush Pets Outside

If you’re grooming your pets inside, you’ll be stirring up a lot unnecessary dander that your air conditioner is going to work through each room and send to the filter. While some people will have animals that they can’t take outside, if you have dogs and cats that spend time in the yard, go ahead and grab a brush before the run in.

#3: Check and Clean Vents Often

You’ll need to check vents and make sure that they aren’t filled with wads of hair, toys, socks, bones, and treats. Dogs like to bury and if they see an opportunity to get something through a vent, some will attempt it! Plus, the more you pay attention to the interior of your vents, the better idea you’ll have of how much hair and other elements are being left behind.

#4: Visually Inspect the Outside Unit Carefully

If you have dogs that love to dig, then you may find that they disrupt the pad that your air conditioning unit sits on. You want this part of your HVAC unit to be as level as possible, and it’s impressive how much a dog can dig when they are on a mission whether it’s burying bones or when they are on a scent of a smaller animal that might be hiding in the area of your system.

#5: Start Training Pets

If you have pets that like to do things like chew on toys and bones directly over vents, then start the training process to break them of this habit. Because the cool and warm air will flow through here, some animals will be more attracted to this spot. In some cases, this won’t cause any issues, but if you notice a problem such as ducts filling with hair or cotton from toys, then you may prematurely need AC repairs.

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Your air conditioning is an essential part of your home and a welcomed addition to your space because of the comfortable and cool temperatures it provides. So when you need an AC repair, you don’t want just anyone to make adjustments. An air conditioning unit is an investment, and in order to keep in running in prime condition, you’ll want to bring in a reliable AC repair company. In fact, you should have their number saved in your phone in case you have an emergency or demand a quick response to an issue. Here are a few qualities that your AC company should provide you to ensure prompt and efficient services.

Straightforward Pricing and Procedures

You don’t want to be left in the dark when it comes to your AC repair and how much it will cost and what you can expect. The best air conditioning companies will be up front about pricing and let you know exactly what they will be doing so that you know what areas of your property they’ll need access to. When performing home improvements, you’ll find that you have to let workers into your home and you expect them to treat it with respect. Keeping you informed and pricing and procedures is an excellent sign that they are a professional AC repair company that is there to be your cooling solution.

Prepared and On Time

The best AC repair companies will come on time and be ready to work when they arrive. They’ll have the proper equipment, as well as multiple spare parts so that they can correct most issues quickly and without wasting any time. It’s frustrating when you notice someone second guessing the diagnosis or not applying the best methods of repair, and you want to select a company that you’re confident with when it comes to AC repair. If they are late and unprepared, it might be a good idea to find someone that is more reliable.

Professionalism on All Levels

While you want your AC repair company to have the proper certifications and training, you also want them to be professionals and show up with a clean appearance and good attitude. You’ll also want them to properly represent their company so that you know exactly who you are dealing with. If you have two guys show up in dirty clothes and an old, beat up car with one tool belt between them, it can be unnerving to write the check to pay for the AC repair. Professional and reliable HVAC companies will have shirts and vehicles that help you identify them, as well as speak to you with a friendly attitude.

Easy to Reach and Communicate With

It’s never convenient to be in need of an AC repair, but the experts will be easy to reach and make the process go much smoother because they’ll be prompt and efficient. You’ll often notice in the first phone call you make just how easy the company is to speak with and how quickly they respond.

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