When temperatures rise, and we’re trying to find solace in our homes, there’s a common question many homeowners ponder: do air conditioners bring in fresh air from outside? The simple answer might surprise you. But to truly grasp the concept, it’s essential to understand the mechanics behind the AC unit and the process it uses for cooling the air.
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Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Blog
Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category
Do Air Conditioners Bring In Fresh Air From Outside?
Friday, September 29th, 2023How to Save Energy During the Summer Months
Monday, May 22nd, 2023As the summer heat approaches, it is normal to want to turn up the air conditioning, take multiple showers a day, and run the laundry more frequently. But with all these activities comes an increase in energy costs that can quickly add up over time. So, if you’re worried about your wallet, you might want to know how to save energy during the summer months. Luckily, you can take steps to increase your savings while still keeping cool and comfortable in your home.
What Are the New HVAC SEER Rating Minimums in Florida?
Monday, October 10th, 20222023 SEER2 Ratings in Florida
Florida’s heat and humidity make it extremely important to have an air conditioning system that’s reliable and energy-efficient. With so much energy dedicated to cooling, even small improvements in AC efficiency can significantly impact energy consumption and utility costs.
That’s why the federal government is instituting new SEER rating requirements throughout the United States. In Florida, this will directly affect the types of air conditioning systems that can be installed after January 1, 2023.
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What’s a SEER Rating?
An air conditioning system’s efficiency is characterized by two ratings: the EER and SEER. The EER, or energy efficiency ratio, indicates the amount of energy used by an AC unit during a controlled test that simulates an outdoor temperature of 95 degrees, an indoor temperature of 80 degrees, and relative humidity of 50%.
The BTU rating is then divided by the amount of energy used to determine the EER. For instance, a 15,000 BTU system using 1000 watts of power would have an EER of 15. A higher EER means greater efficiency and, in turn, lower costs to keep your home comfortable during a Florida summer.
The SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is an average of the EER over varying cooling conditions for an entire cooling season. It offers a better representation of the real-world performance of an air conditioning system. The rating makes it easier to compare different brands and models when choosing a new air conditioner to install.
Minimum SEER ratings for Florida and the southeast will increase on Jan. 1, 2023, so if you need to install or replace an air conditioning system soon, it’s best to choose a system that will meet the new rating requirements.
Why SEER Ratings Are Changing
Air conditioning takes significant amounts of energy, which is bad for your wallet and bad for the environment. By increasing HVAC energy-efficiency standards in the United States, energy consumption can be significantly reduced while helping the environment, lowering energy costs, and reducing the load on the utility grid.
The changes will differ by region. The northern United States, with its shorter, milder summers, will have less stringent requirements. The Southwest and Southeast regions will require more efficient air conditioners, as they can make a greater difference in energy consumption with their longer, warmer summers.
What Are the New SEER Regulations for Florida?
Starting on Jan. 1, 2023, any new central air conditioners or heat pumps installed in Florida or the Southeast will need to have a SEER of 15 or above, whereas the current minimum is 14. Any new single-packaged AC units will need to have a SEER of 14 or above.
Simultaneously, a new rating system is being introduced, SEER2, which changes how air conditioners are tested, with parameters like higher static pressures to better reflect real-world performance. This means an AC unit with a SEER of 15 will have a SEER2 of about 14.3.
The minimum SEER requirements are based on the original SEER rating, not the SEER2 rating.
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Trust Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical for Your HVAC Services
When you want the highest-quality, most energy-efficient air conditioning system for your Florida home, turn to Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. Our company has been in business since 1969, and we serve Panama City, Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and the surrounding communities in the Florida Panhandle.
We feature exceptional service with expert technicians, upfront pricing, and great financing options for AC replacements or installations. With our quality work, great products, and friendly, trustworthy personnel, you can be sure your comfort is in good hands.
Ready to upgrade to an AC unit that meets the new 2023 SEER ratings?
Call Peaden today at (855) 557-7878 or contact us online to schedule an AC installation or replacement in the Florida Panhandle.
How Does Salty Air Affect HVAC Systems?
Friday, August 5th, 2022
Florida’s warm climate and ocean breeze make it an ideal place for vacationers and residents. However, the abundance of salt in the air can wreak havoc on an HVAC system.
Salt and sand particles in the air can clog or corrode your system, leading to inadequate cooling, higher energy costs, and costly breakdowns.
Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical is here to ensure your HVAC unit stays in tiptop shape.
We’ll keep your cooling system working well in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach and slow the negative effects of salty air on your HVAC system.
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last at the Beach?
While you can expect most HVAC systems to last over 15 years, systems in areas exposed to ocean air typically need to be replaced after a decade due to salt exposure, which causes AC corrosion and rust on the air conditioner.
How Can I Protect My HVAC Unit from Salty Air?
There are ways you can protect and maintain your HVAC system to prolong its life span in Florida, including in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
In these areas, nothing is as important as routine maintenance from professionals like those at Peaden. This allows you to remove debris, including salt, from your system and defend it against untimely deterioration.
Keep Your Condenser Clean
We also recommend that you rinse your outdoor condenser unit once a month to help prevent salt and sand buildup. Run hose water through the unit’s top and side grills to adequately flush out debris.
Consider Covering Your Unit With a Breathable Barrier
While air conditioners are designed to be out in the elements, a breathable AC cover like one made of canvas may be helpful in coastal climates. However, you should never cover your unit with a tarp, plastic, or vinyl, which make up the bulk of AC covers on the market. These materials trap the salt air and moisture, creating condensation, which can cause issues.
Trust the Experts at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical
Our team at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical is here to answer any questions you may have about preserving your HVAC system in Florida’s humid and salty air. You can trust our professional, friendly, and quality work and service for all your HVAC needs in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach.
We provide convenient maintenance plans, upfront pricing, flexible financing, and free estimates on replacements.
For all your HVAC maintenance, repair, and replacement needs in the Florida panhandle, call Peaden at (855) 557-7878 today.
How To Best Prepare Your AC for Summer in Florida
Wednesday, March 23rd, 2022
Summer is when the Florida sun really beats down, causing you to seek relief in the cool AC. Ensure your air conditioner can keep you comfortable without failure with a few simple maintenance steps that can also help you increase system efficiency!
1. Change Your Air Filter
Start summer off right with a clean air filter. When your air handler filter is clogged with dust, it restricts cool air from flowing throughout your home. Some cool air will make it through a dirty filter, but the air will circulate dust and other irritants.
Changing your filter every one to three months allows your AC to run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills and improving the indoor air quality for you and your family.
2. Clear Debris From the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Outdoor condenser units tend to get cluttered with twigs and leaves over time. They can also house critters during the winter season.
Ensure your AC is off, and clear away any debris you see near the base of the outdoor unit.
3. Check the Refrigerant Lines
While you’re outside clearing debris around the condenser, inspect the coolant lines. They should be thick insulated tubes or pipes that run from the condenser.
Check for holes, fraying, chew marks, leaks, or other damage that needs professional repair.
4. Schedule a Professional Maintenance Appointment
Now that your AC is thoroughly cleaned and a new filter is in place to ensure efficiency and indoor air quality, schedule air conditioner maintenance with an HVAC technician to complete the tasks that only a professional can do, such as:
- Checking and topping off refrigerant
- Inspecting breakers and fuses
- Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
- Testing thermostat accuracy
- And more!
Choose Peaden for Routine AC Maintenance in the Florida Panhandle
The best way to ensure your air conditioner is ready to keep you cool all summer long is by scheduling maintenance with Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical.
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Since 1969, our team has helped homeowners in the Florida Panhandle correct minor problems and avoid major repairs with SmartCare, our routine maintenance program.
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5 Tips To Help You Avoid Costly AC Repairs This Summer
Wednesday, February 10th, 2021
When you have an air conditioning unit you rely on to keep your family or employees comfortable and productive, you want to stay on top of repairs. While AC repairs are a necessary part of owning a unit, many repairs can be prevented.
Here are a few tips to ensure you have a comfortable summer with as few AC repairs as possible (if any at all).
#1: Schedule Service Before the Hottest Months
You don’t have to wait until you have an issue to call and have your air conditioner serviced. Call before the hottest months and have your AC unit cleaned and inspected by a professional so you stay on top of any issues the heat can bring about.
If you notice you need an AC repair, don’t hesitate to call because it’s summer and you think the company will be too busy. Call when you need to, but if you can be proactive, you may save yourself some time and discomfort.
#2: Get a Programmable Thermostat
If you want to avoid needing AC repairs, invest in a programmable thermostat so you have control over your temperatures when you’re away from home.
The more you learn about the best practices for programmable thermostats and temperature settings, the more money you’ll save on your energy bill and the longer your unit will last.
#3: Start Paying Closer Attention to Filters
When the weather is perfect and you don’t have to use your AC as much, you often won’t have to change your filters as frequently. However, be sure you don’t use this as the standard for how often to clean filters.
In the hottest months of the year, you’ll need to change your filters more often because the unit works harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
#4: Insulate Your Home Better
You can give your air conditioner a major break when you have a well-insulated home, from the windows to the attic. Take the time to ask the AC repair company what you can do to make sure your home is properly keeping the cool air in.
You’ll be surprised how many things you can do that are affordable, plus a few updates you can make to add value to your home and prevent AC repairs.
#5: Don’t Forget the Outside Unit
While people tend to focus on the thermostat and filters, make sure you spend a little time outside cleaning up any debris that has fallen and removing any vines that may have grown into the fan.
When you keep this area of your cooling system clean and stay aware of how it should sound and act when it’s working properly, you’ll find you’re much quicker to spot signs of trouble.
Do You Have Smells Coming from Your Air Conditioning Unit?
Monday, May 25th, 2020Odd HVAC Smells & What You Should Do About Them
While living in or around Pensacola, Walton Beach or Panama City, you know what it’s like to live with hot days and nights, and humidity. Humidity and excessive moisture can be as tough on your body as they are on your air conditioner.
Once that moisture gets trapped in your air conditioner and flows through your home’s ductwork, you could be in for a rough, smelly time in your home, not to mention putting your health at risk. Ask yourself what smells you notice in your home every time you use your air conditioner. Do you notice any of these odors?
Dirty, Old Socks
Does your air conditioning unit smell like dirty, old socks? Dirty sock Syndrome is the foul, moldy-smelling odor that comes from your air conditioner when you first turn it on. This can be really bothersome. If you have this smell coming from your ac unit, the condenser might be the problem.
At times, bacteria will grow on the ac unit condenser coils. This is what causes it to smell like dirty, old socks. With this smell, the good news is that all you probably need to do is have a Peaden ac repair expert come and clean the condenser coils. They may need to sanitize the condenser, as well.
Gun Powder
Are you smelling gun powder wafting throughout your home? If so, this is not a good thing. It means that there is something burning. If this smell occurs, you should instantly go to your breaker box and turn the HVAC system off. Then, contact your local fire department, and don’t go back into your home until you are told it is okay.
Once you do go back into your home, you can call a Peaden AC repair expert. The gun powder smell can indicate a short from the air conditioner’s circuit board, or fan motor. The smell could also be from an overheating motor, a wiring issue, or some other mechanical problem.
Dirty Trash Smell
Do you notice the smell of trash coming from your vents after turning on your air conditioning unit? If so, different things could cause this. However, one of the main causes is that an animal died in the HVAC system and needs to be taken out. This happens a lot in the winter. If you suspect this has happened, you should turn your air conditioning unit off, open your windows, and contact an ac repair expert.
These are some of the most common smells that come from air conditioning units. If you notice that any of these smells have been coming from your vents, you should reach out to Peaden ac repair experts. The expert that comes to your property will asses the issue and they can make any repairs that are required. Sometimes it is just a matter of cleaning something out and other times something has been damaged and needs to be repaired.
Rotten Egg or Sulphur Smell
Never, ever ignore the Rotten Egg Smell! It could be the smell of leaking gas!
While natural gas is naturally odorless, manufacturers are required to add a chemical called mercaptan to give it that rotten egg smell. If that is what you are smelling, it’s an emergency, so follow these steps:
- Don’t operate anything electrical.
- Don’t operate matches or lighters.
- If there are any open flames, such as candles, put them out.
- Open as many doors and windows as you can.
- Turn off your gas supply at the meter.
- Contact the gas company.
- Have the gas company turn the gas back on for you when it is safe.
Fumes from Exhaust
Do you smell fumes from an exhaust through your vents? If this is the smell you have in your home, one of the main reasons is that your ac unit or condenser is leaking fluid. It is more than likely leaking on the motor or a different portion of the ac system that is warmed up. If this is happening, contact an ac repair expert right away.
If You Notice These Things You Need AC Repair Services Right Away
Saturday, May 16th, 2020
Are you wondering if you need AC repair services in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City? Maybe there is something going on with your air conditioning unit that seems out of the ordinary or odd. If this is the case, you can always contact Peaden ac repair experts today. You can let the expert know what is going on and they can determine what services you might need. Still not sure if you need to make that call? Below are some of the reasons why you might need AC repair services right away.
Loud or Odd Noises
Is there a noise coming from your air conditioning unit that is loud or odd? If so, it may be time to contact Peaden ac repair experts. Some of the noises that you might hear a clunking, rattling, buzzing, clanking, thumping, or banging. Air conditioning units should be quiet. Yes, from time to time, you may hear slight noises. However, there shouldn’t be anything too loud or odd coming from your air conditioning unit.
Weird Odors
Do you notice a weird odor coming from your vents? Maybe it smells like dirty socks, rotten eggs, burning, exhaust fumes, mold, or chemicals. If you are noticing any of these odd-smelling odors, then you shouldn’t wait any longer to contact Peaden ac repair experts. These odors could mean there is an electrical issue, fried circuits, a natural gas leak, fluids leaking, or another issue.
High Cooling Costs
Have you recently noticed that your utility bill has skyrocketed after using your air conditioning unit? If so, this could signify a wide range of issues with your ac unit. If you want to get to the bottom of these high utility bills, you should have an ac repair expert come take a look at your unit. They can assess what the issue is and make any necessary repairs.
Can’t Keep a Regular Temperature
When you run your air conditioning unit, do you find that you can’t keep a regular temperature in your home? Does the temperature go up and down and back again? This could mean that your air conditioning unit isn’t working properly. It could be something minor or there could be a major repair that needs to be made.
If you notice any of these things happening with your air conditioning unit, you shouldn’t wait it out. If there is an issue with your ac unit and you just leave it, the problems could get much worse. Your entire air conditioning unit could become damaged. If there is just a minor issue at this point, it is better and more affordable to have that fixed, than to have bigger issues in the future.
You can contact Peaden ac repair experts today. Let them know what your ac unit issue is and they can come to make any repairs that may be needed.
Best Tips for Efficiency of Your HVAC System
Monday, April 20th, 2020
As a homeowner in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City, you have got to take care of every aspect of your home and that includes your HVAC system. However, many homeowners find they have issues with their HVAC system. If you are constantly having issues with your HVAC system, it is important to learn more about how to properly maintain your system and how to keep it running efficiently.
Keeping the System Clean
If you don’t keep your HVAC system cleaned out, dust, dirt, and other pollutants are going to build-up inside of it and on top of it. With time, this build-up is going to restrict the airflow and make it much harder for your HVAC system to work properly. You will probably find that it is more and more difficult to keep the temperature in your home comfortable. If your HVAC system gets dirty, you are going to use excess energy which will raise your energy bill. If you need regular maintenance and cleaning on your HVAC system, be sure to call the AC repair experts today.
Use Your Ceiling Fans
Many people don’t think their ceiling fans are beneficial during the warmer months of the year. However, your ceiling fans work like wind, they cool you down enough, so you don’t have to constantly crank up your air conditioning unit. If you want lower energy bills throughout the warmer months of the year, take advantage of your ceiling fans.
Consistent Thermostat
Every degree that your home’s HVAC system uses to cool your home takes 8 – 10% more energy. For instance, if you have your home’s thermostat at 68 during the summer months, you will be using 40% more energy than if you set it at 72. Don’t keep increasing and lowering your thermostat. Find a temperature that works for you. The more consistent your thermostat is, the less fluctuating your energy bill will be.
Maintenance Appointments
Finally, if you want your HVAC system to be the most efficient, you need to make sure it is regularly maintained. As you read above, you need to make sure your HVAC system is properly cleaned on a regular basis. However, you will also want to make sure AC repair experts come into your home and provide the proper maintenance on your HVAC system. These experts can make sure there are no issues with your system and make any repairs that may be necessary at the time of the maintenance appointment.
Your HVAC system does a lot for your household. It is important that you take great care of it. By following through with these tips, you can properly clean and maintain your home’s HVAC system. You can also make sure that it is running as efficiently as possible throughout the year, as well.
What Makes an AC Repair Company the Right Choice for You?
Friday, April 10th, 2020If you live in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, or Panama City and you are looking for the best AC repair company for your household, there are many things that might want to look for. Picking out an AC repair company is more than just affordability. While that is one factor that you may want to consider, there are some others that are important, as well.
Great Values
One of the things that you will want to look into when you are trying to find the right AC repair company for your household is one that has great values. Does the company care about their customers? Do they try to offer affordable prices while providing excellent customer service? Does the company answer any questions that their customers have? Do the AC repair experts strive to always do the best work they can. If you are looking for an AC repair company that has great values, Peaden is the right company for you.
Arrive on Time
Have you called an AC repair company in the past and they didn’t show up when they said they would be at your home? Maybe this caused you to be late to work. When you are looking for a great AC repair company, you need to know that the repair expert will be at your home on time. With Peaden, you get professionals who are always on time.
Trained and Certified
Another thing that you should consider when picking out the best AC repair company is whether the professionals who work there are trained and certified. When you work with AC repair professionals from Peaden, you are assured that they are trained and certified technicians by N.A.T.E. This means you won’t have to worry about their professionalism or expertise. They are qualified to work on every issue that may be going on with your air conditioning unit.
Staying Safe
You also want to make sure that the professionals who work in your home are going to be safe on the job. At Peaden, all of the technicians are licensed and always comply with all building codes. They have gone through safety training and had a thorough screening before being hired.
Providing Maintenance Services
In addition to repair services, you will want an AC repair company that will also provide maintenance services. You don’t only want professionals who are going to be there if something goes wrong. You want AC repair experts who will help to prevent your air conditioning unit from having issues in the first place.
These are some of the things that you should consider when you are looking for the right AC repair company for your household. If you contact Peaden, you can get all of this and much more.