4 Reasons to Get Your HVAC System Cleaned

HVAC System: Four Reasons to Hire a Professional

Having your HVAC system cleaned can be one of the most beneficial preventative maintenance functions you can do for your families’ health. Contaminants in the ventilation system can produce awful smells, high humidity, and stuffy air. Poor indoor air quality affects every breath and can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, allergies, and illness.

Many homeowners might consider cleaning the HVAC system a DIY project; after all, is it too difficult to clean your own home? Here are four important reasons to consider having an HVAC professional clean your ventilation system.

The Right Person with the Right Tools

Cleaning the system would begin with locating all of the system parts: return vents, filter, blowers, heat exchanger/cooling coil, and supply ducts. Most homeowners would have difficulty identifying these parts, much less reaching them. An HVAC professional has the specialized equipment needed to properly clean the entire system. Having good tools is not the same as having the right tools!

Dust is more than an annoyance

The average household produces 40 lbs. of dust annually, so it is more than what you see on the coffee table. Dust is produced by scratching dry skin, using a paper towel, or simply walking across the carpet. Pets, pollen, and outdoor pollutants also contribute to dust. Since the indoor air volume circulates at least 5 to 7 times daily, family members come into contact with household dust more often than you think. It can get worse. Dust might not be the worst of it: the ducts may also contain the mold in areas with high humidity or become a haven for pests.

Improved system efficiency

We all know that changing air filter frequency will improve system efficiency, but heavy dust in the rest of the ventilation system will also reduce airflow. Dust builds up, clumps up, and clogs ducts, vents, and returns. Heating and cooling depend upon rapid airflow, but if dust prevents airflow the system cannot do its job effectively. This causes your system to work harder. It can also create hot and cold spots or areas of high humidity.

Prolong the life of your system

Your HVAC system consists of both a heating and cooling system: dust is harmful to both. Clogged ducts and vents will add strain to the system and makes the system “feel” like it is not working properly. The prolonged strain will shorten the life of the system’s parts. In addition, if dust collects on moving parts, on electrical connections, and on bearing surfaces, it will lead to component failure.

Want more information about HVAC Systems? We Can Help!

If you are considering preventative HVAC System services to better your HVAC Efficiency and prepare your home for cool weather, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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December 30, 2020December 30, 2020

3 Easy Furnace Maintenance Fixes

3 Easy Furnace Maintenance Fixes – Common Furnace Problems & Solutions

During the winter your family relies on your furnace to maintain comfort and heat your home. As the temperature drops, you do not want to face a breakdown and potentially lose your furnace’s ability to heat your home.

A commonly asked question is, “What are furnace problems to look for?” Most homeowners are looking for furnace maintenance tips to minimize the need for large furnace and HVAC repairs.

Here are the 3 most common furnace problems we’ve witnessed below and proactive furnace maintenance solutions to keep your heating system running at its peak.

Clogged and Dirty Air Filters

Clogged and dirty air filters put unnecessary strain on your furnace. In addition, a dirty air filter will reduce the air quality inside your home.

Replacing your air filter based on your furnace maintenance specifications prolongs the life of the unit and can drastically reduce your energy consumption.

The most effective way to avoid a clogged or dirty HVAC filter is regularly scheduled furnace maintenance. One of our NATE Certified Technicians can inspect your air filter and replace it if needed.

We will also provide a schedule for you to change your air filters based on several criteria such as the number of pets inside the home, tobacco use, chronic allergies or other conditions, and if you have elderly or infant family members.

Most filters provide replacement specifications and many modern thermostats provide an alert when air filters need to be replaced.

Ductwork Design Or Damage

Sometimes the original installation of your HVAC system can be causing your heating and/or cooling system to face challenges to keep up with the demand of your desired temperature settings.

Improperly installed or designed ductwork can lead to inefficient HVAC effectiveness.

Damaged ductwork could come from rodents, normal wear and tear, or damage caused by attic storage. Through the repetition of cycling back and forth from heat and then cold, ductwork experiences fatigue which leads to leaks.

Leaking ductwork is one of the leading causes of loss of energy efficiency in your HVAC system.

This repair is typically easy and one of our furnace maintenance professionals can repair or reconfigure ductwork quite easily.

Reduced Efficiency

As we have discussed, routine furnace maintenance is highly suggested to keep your heating system performing at its best. We highly recommend furnace maintenance twice a year, once in the Spring and once in the Fall.

This maintenance will keep your HVAC system running at its optimal efficiency level.

There are reasons why you will lose efficiency that cannot always be prevented with maintenance. An aging heating unit will gradually lose its ability to maintain the desired comfort levels within your home.

Time will eventually cause a breakdown of the system’s mechanics, leading to costly repairs and the inevitable replacement.

Modern units promote an efficiency level of about 90%, an older unit may only be able to perform at 60%.

Not only does this minimize the comfort level, it inconveniently adds to your utility bill. Learn more about HVAC efficiency ratings here.

Want more information about Furnace Maintenance? We Can Help!

If you are considering preventative Furnace Maintenance services to better your HVAC Efficiency and prepare your home for cool weather, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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December 22, 2020December 22, 2020

HVAC Winter Preparation: 4 Tips to Get Ready for Winter

HVAC Winter Preparation Tips

To prepare your home’s HVAC for the Winter season, you will want to perform these preventative maintenance steps to be ready for falling temperatures. This HVAC winter preparation checklist will help you keep your energy expenses down and make winter a whole lot more comfortable for you and your family.

HVAC Winter Preparation Checklist:

Replace HVAC System Filters

Regular replacement of the air filter is one of the most productive and easiest ways to keep your HVAC system running at its finest. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on which filter to use and replace it more frequently if you have chronic allergies, are a pet owner, have small children, or have a compromised immune system.

Clean Registers and Air Return Grills

Vacuum or wipe clean your registers or air return grills to keep any build-up of debris and dust from restricting airflow. Keep furniture or household decorations free from blocking these registers and to allow proper airflow.

Conduct a Heating System HVAC Winter Preparation Test

Allow your thermostat to cycle your heater on and calculate how long it takes your room to reach the set temperature. If your furnace does not come on, or it takes an extended length of time to reach the set temperature, it is time to contact us for a service call. You will want to avoid a complete system breakdown in the dead of winter.

Regularly Scheduled Maintenance Should Be part of Your HVAC Winter Preparation

Complete HVAC system inspection should be done twice a year. Once in the Spring to prepare for the summer heat, and once in the fall to prepare for the winter cold. As your system ages, it will be more important to continue regular maintenance to ensure that HVAC components stay efficient to prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Want more information about HVAC Winter Preparation? We Can Help!

If you are considering preventative HVAC Winter Preparation services to better your HVAC Efficiency and prepare your home for cool weather, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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November 30, 2020November 30, 2020

6 HVAC Efficiency Tips for this Fall

HVAC Efficiency Tips

Inefficient HVAC systems not only compromise your comfort level, they hurt you financially. Keeping your HVAC system operating at its highest level will improve your home’s indoor temperatures, and it will also save you money.

Here are a few HVAC efficiency tips to keep your home’s comfort level at its best.

HVAC Efficiency: Keep Evaporator and Condenser Coils Clean

Dirt and debris accumulate around your condenser and evaporator coils. This build-up will decrease your systems’ ability to transfer heat and its cooling ability. Cleaning these components on a regular basis will keep your system running efficiently.

HVAC Efficiency: Replace Your Air Filters

Clogged or dirty AC filters will restrict the airflow of your unit. Fixing a disruption to airflow can create a great increase in energy efficiency. We strongly recommend changing your air filter every 30-90 days depending on the filter rating.

HVAC Efficiency: Poor HVAC Maintenance

Most homeowners neglect proper HVAC maintenance. Since your system components are stowed away and hidden, they have a tendency to become, “out of sight and out of mind.” Your AC and heating system efficiency can decrease by five percent per year.

To prevent further wear and tear, and to prolong the life of your HVAC system, we recommend you schedule regular maintenance.

HVAC Efficiency: Compromised Ductwork

Damaged or worn ductwork can certainly cause inefficient heating and cooling. Air leaking out of your ductwork into your attic will definitely cause poor performance and higher utility bills. A thorough inspection of your ductwork by an experienced technician can save you a great deal of money.

HVAC Efficiency: Aging HVAC Systems

If you notice decreased efficiency in your A/C even with proper maintenance, it may be the case that your unit is simply nearing the end of its lifespan. Most air conditioners can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, so a replacement may be in order if your unit is older than that.

How Do You Test Your HVAC Efficiency and Performance

On a day that is above 80 degrees, allow your AC unit to run for at least 15 minutes consistently. Place a thermometer on a supply register closest to the unit and let it sit for 5 minutes. Repeat the process at a return vent.

An efficient HVAC system cools air 14 to 20 degrees from the temperature that it entered your system. If your HVAC system is not able to do this, its performance and efficiency are at best problematic. If this is the case, you should contact us immediately to schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment.

Want more information about HVAC Efficiency? We Can Help!

If you are considering preventative HVAC system maintenance services to better your HVAC Efficiency, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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November 16, 2020November 16, 2020

HVAC System Maintenance: 5 Reasons Why Your Heating Costs Are Through the Roof

5 Reasons Why Your Heating Costs Are Through the Roof

Heating costs are sure to rise as the outdoor temperatures fall during winter. If you notice your heating costs increasing each year, it is safe to say that your HVAC System may be showing signs of aging or needs repair. The most common sign is that your heating system is losing efficiency.

The more your HVAC System loses its ability to heat your home, the more it will cost you to achieve the same level of comfort. Here are some of the most common causes for your heating system to lose its efficiency.

How do furnaces lose efficiency?

Dirty HVAC Air Filters

Your HVAC filter being dirty is the leading cause of heating system inefficiency. Replacing your air filter regularly will keep efficient airflow through your HVAC system. Clogged air filters reduce the airflow causing multiple components to drop in performance. Continue neglect of replacing your air filter regularly can even result in system failure.

Most air filters are scheduled to be replaced every 60 to 90 days. Pet owners, tobacco users, and those with elderly or small children in the home may consider replacing their air filter more frequently.

Dust and Debris Buildup

The air filter will only remove a certain amount of dust and debris from settling on your components. This build-up will reduce their efficiency. Your HVAC System coil is one component that is expensive to replace and whose lifespan can be increased with proper cleaning. Your HVAC system has two coils, an evaporator coil, and a condenser coil.

Dust buildup on your evaporator coil reduces the ability to reduce humidity in your home’s air. Debris buildup on the condenser coil limits the condenser coil’s ability to release that heat outside.

The best way to prevent dust buildup is to have your heating system undergo preventative maintenance twice a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall. Our experienced technicians will clean and shore up your system and report any potentially problematic areas to address.

Failing Ductwork

Your ductwork is the delivery system for cooling and heat to your home. When this delivery system is compromised, that system is less efficient and your HVAC system must work harder to achieve the same level of comfort. During a preventative maintenance appointment, our technicians thoroughly inspect your ductwork to identify any wear and tear or potential areas that may cause improper air flow.

Blocked or Close Air Vents

Many times we forget to keep air vents free of furniture or rugs, and sometimes we close air vent to attempt to redirect airflow. Without a zoning thermostat, your heater will continue to heat that room regardless.

Aging Heating Systems

The average lifespan of your HVAC system is about 15-20 years. Proper maintenance can increase lifespan considerably. As your system ages, it will decrease its efficiency. As technology increases, systems become more efficient, work less, and last longer.

Want more information about HVAC System maintenance? We Can Help!

If you are considering preventative heater maintenance services, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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September 1, 2020September 1, 2020

Energy Efficient HVAC Tips for Summer

Summer Energy Efficient HVAC Tips

Being cool is the number one priority for most of us during the intense summer heat. HVAC systems work overtime to remove the heat and make our homes comfortable and safe.

Cool summertime temperatures come with a cost. Homeowners see spikes in utility bills and must question their choices and consider energy-efficient alternatives. Here are some solutions to reduce your energy consumption during the summer.

Important Facts About Energy Efficient HVAC

Do you know what percentage of your utility bills come from your HVAC system? Let us take a quick look at some facts to help you better understand your HVAC system efficiency.

In the Texas Gulf Coast, over 95% of homes use some type of cooling system. In the U.S., 12% of the total energy consumption is from air conditioning systems. In Southeast Texas, that number is over 30%. Reducing the amount you use your air conditioning system is the easiest way to reduce your energy usage, but the cost is not worth it. Yes, your bill is lower, but often your comfort level is also below what is acceptable.

Energy Efficient HVAC System Upgrades

Older HVAC units are not as energy-efficient as newer and more modern options. Newer air conditioners are required by the Department of Energy to meet certain energy efficiency standards. Over time your HVAC system will lose efficiency. The older your unit is, the harder it has to work to reach the same comfort levels that you are used to.

Redesign Your Energy Efficient HVAC System in Your Home

Air conditioning systems work to cool your home. Rarely does each area of your home stays the same temperature or have the same cooling requirements. Zoning HVAC systems create comfort levels designed exactly like what you need and want. Zoning thermostats can redirect airflow to specific areas of your home as needed. This keeps the temperature consistent, between floors and rooms to provide the cooling and heating level you desire.

A zoned Energy Efficient HVAC system provides comfort and precision, and it helps you use less energy. Zoned HVAC systems can reduce airflow to unused rooms so energy is not wasted cooling/heating areas where nobody will be using it. When you pair your zoned HVAC system with a zoning thermostat, you can see additional savings that can further reduce your utility bills.

Looking for a more Energy Efficient HVAC system?

If you are sick of paying high utility bills and looking for an energy efficient HVAC system, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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May 29, 2020May 29, 2020

A/C Tune Up Maintenance Tips To Save Money This Summer

A/C Tune Up, HVAC Maintenance , air conditioning system maintenance

Maintenance Tips To Save Money on Your Summer Air Conditioning Bill

Here are some easy maintenance tips to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. A smooth-running A/C system can reduce your utility bill. Rather than letting cabin fever get the best of you during this global crisis, make good use of your time by conducting HVAC maintenance that will save money on your summer utility bills. Your Family and Pets Need Fresh Air, All Summer Long!

Limit the Amount of Sun that Enters Your Home

Window coverings are a great way to block the intense heat of the summer sun. Installing window coverings that are designed to reduce radiant heat can reduce your home from heating up in the hot’s part of the day. Covering your skylights or any window in rooms facing the West can reduce energy consumption. Landscaping that shields south and west-facing walls and windows can help prevent your home from heating up from the summer sun. Window screens and tint can be a great solution for large windows that let sun heat up rooms on the Southwest side of your home.

Conduct a Proper Vent Inspection

Regular vent inspection can reduce air conditioning strain. Keep your vents free from being blocked. Allow plenty of airflow in and around vents and returns. Complete or partial blockages can put excess strain on your air conditioning system.

Clean Your Outdoor Condenser

During the winter leaves, branches and debris can gather around this vital component to your HVAC system. The condenser is not only a vital component, but it is also the most expensive component. Shrubs, plants, and trees can also grow in and around your air conditioner condenser. With appropriate regular spot checks & maintenance, you should expect more than a decade of use from this important piece of equipment.

Evaluate Your Thermostat Placement

Your thermostat determines how often your HVAC system turns on and off. If your thermostat is affected by sources of heat, it could be detecting inaccurate temperatures. Household items like lamps and direct sunlight can prematurely turn your system on inappropriately. Also note that the lower your thermostat setting, the more energy your system will consume. For every degree below 78 degrees, you increase your energy consumption by 8%.

A/C Tune Up and Preventative Maintenance

We have outlined a few tips to reduce summertime energy consumption by your HVAC system. In addition to visual inspection of your unit, preventative maintenance is a key step to reducing summertime utility bills. Schedule your A/C tune up appointment before the summer heats up to avoid delays in scheduling and help mitigate costly repairs.

May 20, 2020May 29, 2020

UV Light Sanitizers for Your HVAC System

UV Light Components for Your HVAC System

What an Air Purification System Can and Can’t Do

Reduce Indoor Air Pollutants with an Air Purification System

During this current pandemic, we see countless numbers of ads about the different sanitizing products on the market. Some are effective, while others are not. The most proven method of removing indoor air pollutants is using UV light sanitizers within your HVAC system. Although a UV light system inside your HVAC system cannot prevent contaminants from entering your home on your person or through open doors or windows, it can kill mold, bacteria, and some airborne viruses. This can be a great addition to regulate your indoor air quality within your HVAC system. This is especially critical for those with compromised immune systems, sensitivity to allergens, asthma sufferers, or children.

In 2012, Duke University conducted research providing evidence that UV light sanitizers can significantly reduce mold, bacteria, and virus transmission when combined with standard cleaning solutions. Although commercial based cleaners are not used in most homes, UV light sanitizers can be added to many existing HVAC systems.

The common method of adding these components is done in two ways:

Coil Sanitization

Your HVAC’s indoor coil can be fitted with UV C components to remove mold and other contaminants. Your coil removes liquid from the air to dehumidify your home. As air flows over the moist indoor coil, dust, debris, pet dander, and other pathogens stick to the coil. The coil can have mold and fungus grow if it is not cleaned regularly. If neglected those same allergens can enter your indoor air.

Coil sterilization light can remove irritants from your coil. The UV light sanitizers will direct its focus on the coil itself to kill everything before it gets into your indoor air quality. With a professionally installed UV light sanitizer, pollutants are removed 24/7 since the light remains on at all times. When a UV light is paired with a quality HVAC air filter, you will be provided some of the best indoor air quality possible.

Air Sanitization

Air sanitization products are a step beyond HVAC system coil sanitization. The air sanitization components use activated carbon to remove odors and chemicals from indoor air. Hazardous fumes from carpet, furniture, household cleaners, and industrial solvent concerns make your HVAC system an excellent candidate for this technology advancement.

In this world of pandemic crisis, we are all looking for the best solution to indoor air quality. We want to protect our family, our home, and our pets from pollutants, contaminants, and pathogens. Although HVAC UV light sanitizing components are not foolproof, they will take your indoor air quality protection to the next level. They are a great solution to remove bacteria, viruses, chemical irritants, pet dander, dust, and debris. These are all common irritants for those with chronic respiratory issues, sensitivity to chemicals, and asthma.

UV Light Sanitizer Questions

If you have questions about UV light sanitizers for your HVAC system, call All Cool A/C today at 281-238-9292. We look forward to working for you in the near future.

April 13, 2020April 22, 2020

Indoor Air Quality: How Spring Affects Our Air Quality

Spring has sprung! Pollen, mold, mildew, and dust are circulating in our air making for extremely poor indoor quality. If not maintained, these Springtime pollutants can have a big negative effect on you and your family’s health.

Indoor Air Quality Adverse Effects

– Itchy Eyes
– Congestion
– Body Aches
– Runny Nose
– Coughing
– Sneezing
– Fatigue
– Headache
– Dry Skin

Allergens such as pollen are in abundance in Spring and the leading cause of congestion and allergy flare ups. One of the reasons this contaminants flourishes during Spring is our tendency to “air out” our homes by opening the windows. This allows the pollen allergens to have full access to our sinuses.

Spring showers leaves dampness and moisture where mold and mildew find easy conditions to grow rapidly.

Throughout the entire year, your HVAC system pulls dust and debris into your ductwork settling to be recirculated as your air conditioning system works. This cycle of circling the dust in and out of the house will continue until the ducts are thoroughly cleaned. During Spring, outdoor pollutants and allergies have your sinuses and breathing labored, additional dust and debris from your ductwork can send your health spiraling downward.

What is the Roll of Your HVAC Systems for Healthy Indoor Air Quality?

Your heating and air conditioning systems filters and cleans your indoor air, maintains humidity levels, and provides comfortable temperatures. If properly maintained, HVAC systems will help filter that springtime pollen out of your home and will minimize the risk of mold growth by monitoring humidity levels.

Your HVAC Air Filter is a Crucial Component to Indoor Air Quality

A common problem for many homeowners is your AC unit “freezing up.” This is when your HVAC system is overworked. Its effectiveness becomes compromised and electricity usage can increase drastically.

Leading Causes of A/C Freeze Ups

Your HVAC evaporator coil drops too low, your system will begin to ice up. Hot airflow has become obstructed. Rather than moving hotter air from your home, the evaporator’s coils begin the transference of ice-cold air. Such an occurrence is an example of poor system airflow.

Here are the leading causes of poor airflow:

– Clogged or dirty air filters
– Lack of refrigerant level
– Curtain/drapery/furniture obstructions for air returns
– Dirty or clogged coils
– Poorly functioning or malfunctioning system fans

Repair It Now or It Will Cost You

If you notice that your HVAC system is performing poorly, running excessively, your utility bill skyrockets, noises or smells are coming from your air conditioning unit, call for service immediately. Fixing an air conditioning system quickly as issues are noticed, will reduce expensive repair down the road.

April 13, 2020April 22, 2020

5 Reasons To Change HVAC Filters Frequently

5 Reasons You Should Change HVAC Filters More Frequently

Your air conditioning system’s air filter is designed to protect the system from debris and dust build up. Your HVAC system’s efficiency will become labored if its filter becomes clogged and your indoor air quality will become compromised.

For the average homeowner, how often should you change your HVAC filter and why should you change it regularly.

Why change HVAC filters?

#1 Part of System Maintenance to Prevent Costly Repair

Your HVAC system air filter keeps debris and dust from building up on or around your air conditioning system components. As dust and debris enter your A/C system, it begins to coat motors, fan blades, belts, and pulleys. This build up increases friction and will keep your system from running efficiently causing the air conditioner to run longer. If neglected, the heavy burden on your air conditioning system components will break down. Over time, the increased wear and tear causes parts to fail prematurely.

Your HVAC system needs free flowing air for it to be effective. If your filters are clogged with debris and duct, the flow is compromised. This improper airflow can cause your coils to seize up or overheat your compressor. If this happens, you are looking at very costly repairs that could have been avoided.

Changing your air conditioners air filter is an inexpensive maintenance task that can prevent expensive damage to your HVAC system.

#2 Reduce Your Utility Bills

Reducing your energy consumption is great for the planet and it saves you money.

An HVAC system with a dirty air filter requires more power to provide the same cool temperature. The system is required to run longer and work harder to maintain the same desired comfort level. Changing your HVAC filter regularly allows your system to consume less electricity and perform more efficiently.

#3 Increase the Lifespan of Your Equipment

Replacing your HVAC system is expensive. However, it saves you money and you can increase the longevity of your air conditioning system. The longer your air conditioning system performs at optimal levels, the longer your A/C system will last. Taking care of your HVAC system, which includes changing the filters regularly, will extend the life of your system.

#4 Limit the Amount of Dust in Your Home

Replacing your HVAC filter means less cleaning. A clogged filter means more dust in your ductwork. More dust in your ductwork means the more dust that is circulated throughout your home. Having a clean air filter will reduce dust that is in the air in your home.

#5 Reduced Pollutant and Allergens

Inexpensive paper filters are not designed to remove harmful contaminants from your home’s air. HEPA air filters remove pet dander, pollen, mildew, mold, bacteria, and viruses. HEPA air filters are comprised of densely packed glass fibers. The better quality HEPA filters filter 99% of pollen, dust, and smoke particles. When choosing a HEPA filter, make sure the MERV rating is 10 or higher.

Living in a home with poor air quality can lead to health complications. Change your filter and change it with a HEPA air filter.

How often should you change HVAC filters?

In general, we recommend changing HVAC filters at least every couple of months. However, that depends on your system and your environment. We have had customers that need to change filters every couple of weeks due to high levels of contaminants in the air. Homeowners with more pets may also need to change their filter more often due to pet dander.