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Easy Ways to Self-Maintain your Home HVAC System

Easy Ways to Self-Maintain your Home HVAC System

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It’s no secret that maintaining mechanical systems is essential, and HVAC Maintenance is no exception. When you take care of complex mechanical HVAC Systems, such as your furnace and air conditioner, these machines will in turn “take care of you” by keeping you comfortable, healthy and stress-free throughout the hottest and coldest seasons of the year. We offer professional HVAC Maintenance Plans, with options for once or twice a year service, but we also recognize that self-maintenance throughout the year can go a long way toward keeping your HVAC system working as it should.

Here are a few easy things you can do to self-maintain your HVAC system and improve its efficiency between professional tune-up services!

Clean Outdoor Compressors

Every central air conditioning system and most ductless split systems these days have two primary components: an indoor unit that distributes the cold air into your home and an outdoor unit that removes the heat extracted from within your home as a part of the cooling process. This outdoor unit is known as your “compressor” and it can become pretty dirty after a while. A dirty compressor is a less-efficient compressor, as it can’t shed the heat nearly as easily. During particularly hot weather, this effect is magnified.

We recommend cleaning the area around your outdoor unit regularly. This means sweeping away any leaves, dirt, or other debris that may have built up around it. Create a radius of at least six feet around your outdoor unit and cut the grass down around it (if necessary) to encourage maximum airflow. Finally, use a hose to spray your outdoor unit to remove dust and debris that may have become lodged in the cooling fins.

Trim Away Foliage

Foliage that surrounds your outdoor unit can be a huge problem for an HVAC system. We recommend cutting and trimming away any bushes, plants, hedges or other plant life that is growing within a six-foot radius of your HVAC system. Trimming will ensure that not only does your system have the airflow that it needs, but also that any debris that your plants accidentally drop, like leaves or sticks, doesn’t get sucked into the air current being pulled into your HVAC system, where it can become lodged in cooling fins or within the system itself. This is something you typically will only need to do once a year or once every other year, but make sure that you get it done—your system will thank you for it.

Change Air Filters

When it comes to indoor maintenance, there may be no more important step than changing your air filter. Your air filter may be a small and inexpensive part compared to the rest of your HVAC system, but the overwhelming majority of air conditioning and heating problems can be connected to a dirty air filter, both directly and indirectly. That’s why we strongly recommend checking your air filter at least once a month and then replacing it as necessary -(which should probably be roughly every three to four months for most houses. This can help you avoid a breakdown including worn-out blower fans, frozen air conditioners, damaged heating elements and so much more. Likewise, it can help to keep your heating and cooling system more reliable and energy efficient!

Air Care Heating & Cooling Services, Inc | Shreveport, LA Bossier City, LA

Schedule Today! 318-525-7923

At Air Care Shreveport, we'd love to earn your business & trust. We offer expert HVAC service, AC repair & HVAC Sales. Our goal is to ensure that you have a comfortable home, year round. Contact Us for all your HVAC needs.

HVAC Maintenance - Filter Change

Should I Replace My AC & Heater At The Same Time?

Should I Replace My AC & Heater At The Same Time?

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One of the questions that homeowners may have is, “Would it be better to replace the full system?”. It makes sense to ask, why would you want to replace a component that still works? Replacing your furnace and AC at the same time, can be a cost-saving advantage to you. A Split HVAC system keeps your home nice and warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When the time comes to replace an old, worn out AC System, there are usually several options available. However, if one of the system’s major components stops working, the easy choice is to simply replace the part that’s broken. But replacing the full system, both your heating and cooling systems—even if one is still working—can save energy and money over the long term. Keep reading to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of replacing a furnace and AC together. HVAC Basics First, you should understand that Split HVAC Systems consist of several basic components, Condenser (outside unit), Air Handler (inside unit, evaporator coil & blower), Gas Furnace or Heat Kit, Ducts, Thermostat. Lifespan of Furnaces vs Air Conditioner – The average lifespan of a central air conditioner is about 15-20 years while the average lifespan of a furnace is about 15-30 years. In general, furnaces last longer than air conditioners — sometimes over twice as long. Furnaces are less prone to corrosion & mechanical wear and tear.

Reasons to Replace both Furnace and AC at the Same Time

  • Furnace is over 15 years old
  • New System is a high-efficiency system
  • Installation is complicated by space or accessibility
  • Personal preference to have a totally new system
Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling
Modern high efficiency HVAC Systems are engineered to use much less energy than systems built just 10 to 15 years ago. The efficiency of HVAC Systems can be compared by SEER Rating. The higher the SEER Rating, the more energy savings you can expect. AFUE Furnace Efficiency Rating is a measure of seasonal performance for Gas Furnaces. In general, an AFUE of 90% or higher is recommended for a new, efficient furnace system.
Furnace and AC Performance
Having a Matched System for High Efficiency Modern HVAC Systems are engineered to obtain a specific efficiency (SEER Rating). Often, the SEER Rating can only be achieved if the systems components are “matched”. In this situation, replacing the old system makes sense, because you’ll want the advantage of the energy savings & comfort level. While it is usually necessary to replace both air conditioning components at the same time (in a split system), it’s not always necessary to replace both AC components and the furnace. It’s possible to mix and match the systems, it’s not recommended, especially if the furnace is over 15 years old. It makes sense to wait to replace your furnace if it is less than 10 years old. In this case, the furnace will likely last until the next time the AC needs to be replaced. Mixing and matching a new HVAC Component with an old, inefficient component could potentially decrease the lifespan of the replacement component that you need. By replacing just one part of your overall HVAC system, you effectively lower the performance of both components. Your HVAC System won’t reach the full potential that is possible. Also, be certain that you read and understand the manufacturers warranty. Many manufacturers will not honor the warranty in cases of system mismatches.
Matched HVAC Systems Complement Each Other
A furnace system and central air conditioning system share the same air handler. When an HVAC Contractor matches a condenser with an efficient handler that will allow both systems to operate properly, increasing energy cost savings, system lifespan and increasing heating & cooling comfort.
Saving Money on Home Heating and Cooling Costs
As we said before, modern HVAC systems are designed for increased efficiency. You will absolutely save money on your monthly energy bills if your new HVAC System is properly matched. The reason for the savings is because all components work together for maximum efficiency over time. New HVAC Systems require fewer repairs, and if a repair is needed, then parts will often be covered by the manufacturers warranty.
Reasons You Shouldn’t Replace a Furnace and AC at the Same Time
It’s not always the smartest choice to replace an entire HVAC System & there are situations where it’s a disadvantage. Your HVAC System is Less Than 5 Years Old If your HVAC System is only a few years old and nothing seems to be wrong with them, then there’s no reason to replace anything. However, if repair costs become significant, then it makes no sense to keep paying for repair of a failing component. Limited Budget If a full replacement isn’t in your home repair budget, then it doesn’t make sense to force yourself into a sticky financial situation.

HVAC System add value to your home?

You can improve the overall value of your home by maintaining high-quality, compatible systems for heating and cooling. For maximum efficiency and cost savings, replacing the furnace and air conditioner at the same time, when possible, gives you reliable comfort and modern convenience. Adding a new HVAC System can increase the value of your home, and help to make the home more attractive to potential buyers.
Air Care Heating & Cooling Services, Inc | Shreveport, LA Bossier City, LA

Schedule Today! 318-525-7923

At Air Care Shreveport, we'd love to earn your business & trust. We offer expert HVAC service, AC repair & HVAC Sales. Our goal is to ensure that you have a comfortable home, year round. Contact Us for all your HVAC needs.

Shreveport AC Repair Cost

15 Most Common Air Conditioning Repairs

15 Most Common Air Conditioning Repairs

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15 Most Common Air Conditioning Repairs. It can help you to make a better decision if you understand some HVAC basics.

15. Strange Smells If the air coming from your HVAC System smells odd, then it’s likely a sign of an issue. Mold & mildew can create musty smells in your system, or an electrical issue can cause a burning or chemical-like odor.

14. Uneven Cooling Uneven cooling is when some rooms are chilly while others are warmer. Your system air may be unbalanced, and a simple damper adjustment may solve the problem. Another cause can be low or leaking refrigerant. A mis-matched system can also cause uneven cooling to happen.

13. Ducts HVAC Ductwork, located in an attic, under the floors or in a furdown, is often constructed from insulated metal or flexible plastic tubing. Ducts can become leaky over time and insulation can become damaged. Leaky or damaged ductwork should be professionally replaced, or re-sealed & re-insulated.

12. Fan Motor Inside of your system’s air handler is where the blower motor is located. When a fan motor breaks down, the system can no longer force air through your system and ductwork.

11. Contactors Contactors are switches which make an electrical connection that starts HVAC motors and compressors. Contactors can become worn or corroded over time, and it becomes difficult for electric current to start the motors.

10. Fuses Electrical Fuses are important, because they prevent damage & fires due to overloads. Whenever a fuse is damaged, it can prevent proper electrical flow to your AC & Heating Systems. Fuses most often fail due to either a powerful electrical surge (lightning), or normal wear and tear (exposure to elements, age).

9. Air Filter A dirty HVAC filter can restrict the flow of air within an HVAC System. Dirty HVAC filters may not seem like much, however, the restriction of airflow causes several problems. Less cool air is produced by a system with clogged air filters. Having clogged filters, over time causes the system to work harder to cool the air & increases wear and tear. In many cases, dirty filtration will cause ice to form on the refrigerant lines & coils of AC & Heat Pump systems.

8. Thermostat Having the correct thermostat will provide the ideal amount of airflow to achieve a desirable temperature & humidity level. When a thermostat is faulty, the home or building remains uncomfortable. Upgrading to modern programmable or Smart Thermostats can help increase comfort & efficiency. Especially when paired with a High Efficiency System rated 18 SEER or higher.

7. Defrost Control A properly functioning defrost control prevents frost build up on an air conditioner unit. Ice can form, especially in extremely hot climates, if this device does not function properly.

6. Condensation Drain Condensation is moisture formed by a decrease in humidity. When cool air meets warm air, condensation happens. Inside of your HVAC system’s air handler, located in an attic or closet, is the primary location where condensation is formed. Condensation generally drips into a collection pan and then drains out through pipes. Condensation drain lines can become clogged by debris or algae, and will cause water leakage. In addition, an emergency “float switch” may be installed. Float Switches are designed to totally disable an AC System with a condensation drain issue, protecting from interior water damage.

5. Condenser Fan A condenser fan is located in an exterior condensing unit or heat pump. An activated condenser fan draws air into the unit and moves air past the condenser coils. Since this fan is exposed to the elements, it is a common fail-point in HVAC Systems. Once the condenser fan starts to fail, it should be quickly replaced, in order to protect the compressor.

4. Compressor The compressor, located in the outdoor unit, is one of the most important parts of an HVAC System. The compressor is essentially a pump, that moves the refrigerant through the rest system, using pressure. Compressor failure is often caused by mechanical wear & tear, exposure to the elements or failure of other HVAC components.

3. Coil Cleaning Condenser & Evaporator Coils require cleaning as part of preventive maintenance. Dirt collects on HVAC Coils from dust & pollutants in the air. This dirt buildup on coils causes corrosion, which results in leaking refrigerant. When refrigerant begins leaking from an HVAC System, most often it is time to replace parts or all of the system.

2. Capacitors Capacitors help various motors in your air conditioner system to start and run. A faulty capacitor can cause these motors to run hot and/or completely fail.

1. Refrigerant Leaks Refrigerant (freon) is the life-blood of an HVAC System, and pressurization of refrigerant is what produces the cool air in your system. Refrigerant Leaks can be caused by damage or normal wear and tear. In many cases, refrigerant leaks can be repaired. However, it can be wiser to replace the entire system, rather than paying for failure after failure in an aging HVAC System.

Air Care Heating & Cooling Services, Inc | Shreveport, LA Bossier City, LA

Schedule Today! 318-525-7923

At Air Care Shreveport, we'd love to earn your business & trust. We offer expert HVAC service, AC repair & HVAC Sales. Our goal is to ensure that you have a comfortable home, year round. Contact Us for all your HVAC needs.

Air Conditioner Repair Shreveport LA

Repair or Replace: Does it Make Sense to Replace My A/C Unit?

Repair or Replace: Does it Make Sense to Replace My A/C Unit?

Repair or Replace: Does it Make Sense to Replace My A/C Unit?

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Air Conditioner is something that many, living in Shreveport, Louisiana, take for granted. However, if/when yours breaks, you will quickly realize how essential having a well maintained AC really is. The heat and humidity that we see in North Louisiana is especially high in late spring and during our long summers. If you have a broken AC, then you’ve come to the right place. Our experts can quickly assess a residential or commercial HVAC system using the following basic steps. We can’t turn you into a qualified AC Tech, but this guide is written to help Shreveport, Bossier to make informed decisions about AC Repair. Air conditioners have many moving parts, have high voltage electricity and pressurized refrigerant that require knowledge and training. Once you know you’ve got a broken air conditioner, you can contact an Air Care professional to get it back up and running again. But first, you’ll have to ask yourself, is your air conditioner broken?

HVAC Leaking Problems

A common issue facing Shreveport HVAC systems is water leaking from the AC unit. Water leaks can lead to other problems, and should be dealt with as soon as possible. If you find that water is leaking from your central AC unit, you should call Air Care as soon as possible. Most water leaks aren’t major, but a leaking AC can lead to mold growth, wall damage, ceiling damage and insulation damage. A refrigerant leak is a more serious problem. It may be as simple the drain line being too loose. Unsealed ductwork or a condenser unit that isn’t functioning may also be to blame.

AC System Not Cooling

An air conditioning unit that’s no longer cooling is pretty much worthless during a Louisiana summer. If your air conditioning unit is still running but the air that is blowing out of the vents isn’t cool, then there is a need for expert help. Several different problems may be causing this issue. It could be a failed compressor, refrigerant (freon) could be leaking from corroded AC coils, or your thermostat may be out of calibration.

HVAC Making Loud Noises

A properly functioning air conditioner shouldn’t make loud noises since AC systems are designed to operate very quietly. If you hear clunking, squealing, grinding, whirring, or other sounds your AC doesn’t usually make, there’s some sort of problem. Loud noises are a sure sign of a broken air conditioner. Make sure you get your AC checked out if it doesn’t sound right. A belt may have slipped, or a part may need lubrication. Noises may indicate a minor AC issue, but you should not wait to call us. Running your AC Unit that makes loud noises can cause other parts to break down as the noises indicate a strain on the mechanics and components of your HVAC system.
Air Care Heating & Cooling Services, Inc | Shreveport, LA Bossier City, LA

Schedule Today! 318-525-7923

At Air Care Shreveport, we'd love to earn your business & trust. We offer expert HVAC service, AC repair & HVAC Sales. Our goal is to ensure that you have a comfortable home, year round. Contact Us for all your HVAC needs.

AC Repair Shreveport LA
Furnace Repair Bossier City
Air Condition Duct Cleaning Shreveport

Broken AC Thermostat

If your thermostat isn’t working, your AC may not be working. There’s always a chance that the issue is only with the thermostat itself, though, so it pays to investigate the problem further. Before assuming that the AC isn’t working, ensure the thermostat is working properly. If it is, you may have a problem with the AC. Your AC and thermostat should control the temperature of your home. If you’re experiencing temperature issues in your home, you may have a broken AC unit. If your thermostat is working fine, you may have one of the other issues listed in this article.

Higher Than Normal Electric Bills Caused by AC Running Too Long

If your energy bills seem to be through the roof, that may be a sign that your AC is using more power by being on longer. However, your bill may be high due to warmer weather or other changes. If you suspect that your AC could be the culprit, then give us a call to inspect your HVAC system. An air conditioner that isn’t functioning the way that it should can cause your monthly energy cost to rise. Letting issues linger means your AC has to work harder, which leads to more wear and tear and higher repair costs anyway. To keep energy bills as low as possible, perform proper maintenance must be performed on your AC unit. Maintenance can be done at any time, of course, but we recommend that you have your HVAC system inspected, cleaned and tuned each spring. Check out our Maintenance Agreement for more information on what we offer. During our maintenance visits, we inspect the unit and all electrical contacts, tune it and clean it. The technician will alert you to all of his/her assessments.

Strange Smells Coming from AC or Heater

You may have noticed strange smells throughout your house. If so, they may be coming from your AC system. Strong smells, like burning rubber, may mean you have a wiring problem. If the air smells musty, there may be mold in the system. You should look into both of these issues immediately. Mold can lead to health problems and wiring issues may result in a fire.

High Humidity

As part of the way it functions, your AC unit reduces humidity (moisture) in the air while it circulates through your home or business. With a normally operating AC System, you shouldn’t see condensation or other signs of moisture in your home. Condensation, like water collecting on glass and windows, signs of mold, or cold/clammy feeling air are all signs of high humidity.