A/C Designs of St. Augustine, LLC Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

Should I Turn My AC Off When I’m Not Home?

Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022

Keeping your home cool through the Florida summer heat and your electricity bill low is a tricky balance to strike. One key question many homeowners struggle with is what to do with your AC when you’re away from home. It’s true that if you don’t know how to properly regulate your thermostat, you may be wasting both money and energy. 

At AC Designs, our experienced HVAC technicians are here to help you keep your home cool this summer without breaking the bank. Our AC company in St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida is dedicated to extending the lifespan of your unit. Below, we’ll teach you our recommended air conditioning habits and key tips to use year-round. Follow our advice to stay cool while protecting your wallet.  

Pros and Cons of Shutting Your AC Off

Many homeowners think that shutting their AC off completely while away will save the most money, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, this practice can actually lower your AC efficiency and cost more in the long run! Common sense tells you that you’ll save money when your AC unit isn’t running. Unfortunately, this practice often puts unnecessary strain on your unit when you return, canceling out any positive effects. 

Think of it this way. If your air conditioner is off during the hottest periods of the day, the inside of your home could become as hot as 90 degrees or more. Your unit may need to run for hours consistently to cool your home back down. Plus, it will work harder than normal to cool your home more quickly.

Not only does this wind up costing you more money on your energy bill. This extra work for your unit may also have damaging, long-term impacts that require maintenance or unnecessary costly repairs.

Best Thermostat Settings While Away from Home

Keeping your thermostat set to 78 degrees or higher can save you money and lower energy usage in your home while you’re away. When you return home, your AC unit will not have to work as hard to cool your house down to a lower temperature. 

If you spend a majority of the day away from your home, it is recommended that you set your thermostat between 78 and 83 degrees to avoid unnecessary electricity costs. This also prevents your unit from overworking throughout the day.

When your air conditioning is set to 78 while you’re away, there isn’t as much strain on the unit to return to normal temperatures at night. This can help you avoid premature AC maintenance and extend the life expectancy of your unit. 

If you like to keep your home comfort settings extra-cool, we also recommend turning down your thermostat incrementally by a few degrees at a time, rather than all at once. This will help avoid extra strain from your unit trying to cool your home quickly.

Benefits of Programmable Thermostats and Zone Control Systems

Zone control systems and programmable thermostats give homeowners greater control over their heating and air conditioning to improve energy efficiency. They make it easy for homeowners to save money on their energy bills while keeping their homes cool. 

If you find yourself forgetting to set your thermostat to a higher temperature when leaving the house or heading to work, investing in these systems may be right for you. A programmable thermostat can do the work for you based on your schedule. This way, your AC can operate on a consistent schedule, and you’ll never have to worry about regulating your home’s temperature yourself. 

Zone control systems allow homeowners to control the temperature of their homes remotely by zones. When paired with a programmable thermostat, these systems can lower the temperature of certain zones within your home based on their conditioning requirements. Monitoring your home’s temperature by zones allows you to cut electricity costs at an even higher rate. 

Schedule Your AC Maintenance With AC Designs

Dealing with the summer heat doesn’t have to take a toll on your electricity bill. When you incorporate these best practices into your AC routine, you can save hundreds of dollars each year without sacrificing a cool, comfortable home. Make an appointment with an AC company in Jacksonville, Florida that you can trust to keep your unit operating efficiently with your wallet in mind. Schedule an appointment with AC Designs today for all your AC maintenance needs.

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Air Conditioning Mistakes That Raise Your Bills

Wednesday, July 13th, 2022

Air conditioning is a necessity during the Florida summer, but you’ll still be sweating it if you get expensive energy bills. Believe it or not, there are simple steps that can save you hundreds of extra dollars annually on your energy bills. Plus, they’ll help your AC unit run more efficiently and last longer, saving you even more in the long run.

You don’t have to suffer through heat and humidity. You can enjoy a comfortable home at an affordable cost—if you’re smart about your AC. Avoid these common air conditioning mistakes to lower the strain on both your AC unit and your wallet this year.

Forgetting to Clean Your AC Unit

A dirty air conditioning unit can cause your monthly bills to rise significantly. When your AC filters and coils aren’t clean, it can cause your unit to work harder or improperly. Make sure to check your air filters, coils, and outdoor unit regularly to avoid these unnecessary expenses. 

When inspecting these components, be sure to temporarily turn your thermostat off. You should replace each disposable, dirty filter monthly to maintain your unit’s energy efficiency. Failure to clean or replace your air conditioning filters on a monthly basis can increase your energy consumption, resulting in higher energy bills.

Another important component to keep clean is your AC’s condenser. It is typically located within your outside unit and can become dirty as it is exposed to the elements. Take time to remove all dirt, leaves, and debris from the coils to keep your unit’s air flow clear. It is also important to clip shrubbery around the condenser to avoid airflow blockage. 

If you don’t feel comfortable opening your AC unit, one of our experienced AC technicians can do this step for you.

Using the Wrong Thermostat Settings 

Homeowners will see an increase in electricity bills if they do not optimize their thermostat settings. Setting your thermostat at too low a temperature can cause a spike in your bills. That’s why it is important to raise the temperature in your home during the day or when you’re away. 

Using a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re at work or away from home can help save money and reduce your energy consumption. Today’s advanced technology allows you to raise or lower your thermostat settings on your phone, which can save hundreds of dollars each year. 

On hot, summer days, consider using fans to help circulate the air within your home without turning down the thermostat. You can also cool your home by closing outside doors and windows to keep your cool air from escaping.

Neglecting Bi-Annual AC Maintenance

When your unit is not properly maintained, it is susceptible to more frequent repair costs and higher bills due to energy inefficiency. Routine maintenance is required twice a year to ensure that your unit is running properly. 

Keep your AC unit in optimal shape with the help of an experienced HVAC technician. By identifying potential problems with your unit, they will help you avoid costly emergency repairs and extend its lifespan. Keep in mind that serious issues like refrigerant leaks can only be spotted by professionals. 

Join AC Designs Preferred Customer Maintenance Program

At AC Designs, our team of certified technicians is dedicated to helping you save money and energy. If you follow these tips and your AC unit still isn’t performing, it may be time for a professional inspection. 

Join our preferred customer maintenance program today to receive quality service from an AC company in Jacksonville and St. Augustine that you can trust. We were voted Bold City’s Best Air Conditioning Company and have over 1,800 5-star reviews.

As a member of our maintenance program, you’ll receive: 

  • Two pre-scheduled system checks per year 
  • One-day replacement of parts and units (except special orders) 
  • Access to 24-hour emergency service
  • ½ off diagnostic fee
  • 20% discount on repairs 

With so many great benefits, the program can pay for itself in just one visit. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind that your AC unit is always running efficiently to save you money and keep your family comfortable.

Schedule an Appointment With AC Designs

Let our trusted AC company in Jacksonville and St. Augustine help keep your family cool this summer. Make an appointment today to have your unit serviced and avoid costly emergency repairs.

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How to Extend the Life of Your AC Unit

Thursday, June 9th, 2022

Unexpected major expenses are never fun, especially when they leave your home with no air conditioning for days on end. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of maintaining your AC unit in Florida. Here at AC Designs, our mission is to keep you informed with helpful upkeep strategies to prolong the life of your AC unit and help avoid costly mishaps. 

Avoiding Unexpected HVAC Expenses

Your AC unit works hard to keep your home cool during our hot, humid Florida weather. It’s normal for issues such as poor calibration, worn parts, or a lack of lubrication to occur over time. Unfortunately, these can cause your unit to function inefficiently or even fail. When these issues are not addressed, you can wind up paying more money for weaker performance. 

Consistently maintaining your HVAC unit is an easy way to increase its lifespan and avoid costly unanticipated repairs. By performing proper maintenance on your unit, you can eliminate common expenses that arise from improper heating/cooling, frequent repairs, and premature unit replacement. Failure to meet regular AC maintenance needs each year can result in larger problems for your unit. 

Short-Term AC Maintenance

A well-maintained air conditioning unit can last over ten years. There are many short-term practices that you can adopt to extend the life of your HVAC unit. This way, you can stay on top of any issues and avoid long-term damage and unanticipated AC repair costs. 

Preventative Maintenance

Consistent maintenance checks can prevent problems before they begin. Extend your unit’s lifespan by getting regular tune-ups, especially before the summer months. At AC Designs, we offer everything you need to take full control over your HVAC unit, from smart thermostats to zone control systems.

Give Your Unit a Rest

Running your air conditioner constantly can cause it to wear out more quickly, so be sure to give your unit a rest whenever possible. For example, turn the unit off when you have doors or windows open so it doesn’t run overtime. Investing in fans can also take some stress off of your unit on moderately warm days, saving you money and energy.

Clean Your Unit Regularly

You should also clean outdoor units regularly to avoid mechanical breakdown. This includes changing air filters and removing dirt and debris as it accumulates on your unit. Make sure that your outdoor HVAC unit is positioned flat on higher ground to avoid water damage from pooling after rainfall. 

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Using a programmable thermostat is a great way to moderate when your unit is running, especially overnight or when no one is home. This allows your unit to respond automatically to your home’s heating and cooling needs. 

Long-Term AC Maintenance

Regular maintenance from a certified HVAC company will keep your unit running smoothly for longer. Joining a maintenance program can provide homeowners with numerous financial benefits, including lower utility bills, fewer annual repairs, and improved unit capacity. 

At AC Designs, our certified technicians are dedicated to extending the life of your HVAC unit. Join our preferred customer maintenance program today to receive service from an AC company in Jacksonville, Florida that you can trust. As a member of our maintenance program, you will receive:

  • Two pre-scheduled system checks per year 
  • Same-day service availability
  • One-day replacement on parts and units (except special orders), 
  • Access to 24-hour emergency service
  • ½ off diagnostic fee
  • 20% discount on repairs

Schedule Your AC Maintenance With AC Designs

At AC Designs, we are committed to keeping Jacksonville and St. Augustine homeowners informed of the best practices to maintain HVAC units and avoid costly repairs. We will ensure that your AC unit is running smoothly throughout the hottest months of the year. Make an appointment with an HVAC technician today to take advantage of our efficient heating and air conditioning services.

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HVAC Tips and Tricks for New Homeowners

Monday, May 9th, 2022

Finding your new home is an exciting time—and with so much to consider, the HVAC system isn’t usually at the top of your mind. But if your new home’s AC system isn’t working properly, you’ll be stuck feeling hot, humid, and uncomfortable. Here’s our top advice for new homeowners to ensure your AC runs properly from move-in day and lasts for years to come.

Review Your HVAC Unit’s History

Check the AC Warranty

The first step when buying your new home is to check if the AC unit has a warranty and review its terms and conditions. New homeowners will want to keep a copy of this warranty on hand in case any issues arise.

Review Past AC Maintenance History

To get a clear picture of your HVAC system’s history, ask if the previous homeowner will share past AC maintenance and inspection findings. This will tell you whether there were problems in the past and what to expect for the future. 

Schedule Your Own AC Maintenance

If the previous homeowner can’t share a warranty or past maintenance records, it’s best to schedule a professional AC maintenance check as soon as possible. Your certified HVAC technician will identify any issues or needed repairs before they become a problem. That way, you won’t be caught without a working cooling system in the heat of summer.

Consider New AC Installation

Prepare yourself for the possibility that your new home’s AC system may need to be replaced. Our Florida weather is hot and humid year-round, putting extra strain on units. Don’t be fooled by the unit’s age, either. If the unit wasn’t maintained properly, or if the wrong size of unit was installed in the first place, it could wear out before its time.

AC Installation for a New System

In case you do decide to install a new unit at move-in, you’ll need to consider a variety of factors to ensure you get the right heating and cooling system for your home.

Choose the Right Type of System

Whether your home is older or newer, you’ll have to decide on the type of system that’s a match for the space. Options include a single central air conditioner, multiple systems, or a primary system with smaller units throughout the home. This is especially important when building a new home, because you’ll need to budget for the cost of a new HVAC system.

Consider Energy Efficiency

Budgeting goes beyond the initial cost for HVAC installation, too. We recommend taking a close look at the HVAC unit’s efficiency rating to save you money on energy bills in the long run. 

Getting familiar with efficiency ratings can also help. They include SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio), AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency specific to furnaces, water heaters, and boilers), or HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor specific to heat pumps).

DIY AC Maintenance

To save money, you can perform your own AC maintenance. The good news is that there are several things you can do to ensure your AC is running efficiently. Don’t let your unit work too hard by fluctuating the temperature or running it too high or low. 

Set Your Thermostat for Energy Efficiency

The AC owner’s manual may show a recommended energy-efficient temperature range. If not, the next time you have an AC inspection, ask the service technician what they recommend. Then, consider getting a programmable thermostat to keep your house at the right temperature even when you’re away.

Change Your AC Filter Regularly

Particle buildup clogs your ac filters, so we recommend changing them at least every 30–90 days. Proper airflow can be affected by your outdoor unit as well. Keep up yard maintenance around your unit to remove any obstructions near the air intake. 

Ensure Proper Airflow

But what happens when there’s improper airflow? Seal any areas of your home that cause a draft, such as doorways or cracks around windows. Otherwise, the leaks will lower your HVAC efficiency. 

It may also seem efficient to close vents to cool off other areas of your home quicker, but did you know that it can actually cause your unit to work harder? Keep all your vents open and remove any chairs, bookshelves, etc., that may be blocking the vent registers.

Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance

The simplest way to keep your system running smoothly is to have a qualified HVAC service company perform regular AC maintenance.

Enroll in an AC Maintenance Plan

It’s a best practice to schedule a certified HVAC technician to run an AC inspection on your unit twice per year. When searching for an AC company in Jacksonville, FL, or an AC company in St. Augustine, FL, look for one that has served your area for years, like AC Designs. We provide custom system design, in-house energy calculations, and customizable maintenance.

Our technicians will treat you like a person and care for your unit like it’s our own. With AC Designs’ Preferred Customer Maintenance Program, you’ll benefit from regular HVAC maintenance on your unit to keep your home comfortable without worry. On top of that, joining our maintenance program helps save you money on HVAC costs in the long run.

HVAC Tips & Tricks Takeaways:

  • Know Your Unit’s History
    • For inherited units, get the maintenance report from the former owner. 
    • If there’s a warranty, understand its terms and conditions.
  • Maintain the Unit
    • Make sure there are no obstructions to airflow.
    • Replace your filters every 30–90 days.
    • Utilize a programmable thermostat to keep the temperature at recommended levels.
  • Hire a Trusted HVAC Company
    • Find a local company that has a long history of happy customers.
    • Choose a maintenance plan that saves you time and money.

Are you ready to get your recommended AC maintenance on the books? Make an appointment with AC Designs. We take pride in being the number one family-owned and operated AC company in Jacksonville, Florida, and are proud to be a top AC company in St. Augustine, Florida.

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HVAC Tips to Reduce Allergens in Your Home This Spring

Wednesday, April 6th, 2022

Springtime and seasonal allergies are just around the corner. This time of year, it’s crucial to ensure that your AC unit is working correctly to reduce allergens. If it’s not, you and your family could suffer from pollen, pollutants, and worsened symptoms of coughing, sneezing, and itching from allergies or asthma.

The signs of a poorly running unit can be subtle, and you may not notice your indoor air quality isn’t what it should be. By understanding how you can improve your HVAC unit’s efficiency, you can reduce allergens in your home and help your family breathe easily.

Here are our top tips to get your AC unit ready for the spring.

Perform DIY Maintenance

Your air filter plays an important role in your home’s air quality, and one of the best things you can do for your allergies is to keep it clean. On average, air filters need to be changed every 90 days due to the buildup of particles in the air. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, changing your filter every 45 days can help improve your symptoms immensely. This is because your filter collects allergens such as pollen and other air particles.

If you’re not sure whether your air filter is dirty or needs to be changed, you can try a simple method called the white sheet test. Hang a white sheet in front of your AC unit for an hour or so, and then check to see if it’s dirty. If your sheet is grayish or looks dirty, it means that your air filter needs a change. You can also invest in an air quality monitor that alerts you to high allergens, poor air quality, and pollutants.

Managing humidity levels in your home will help keep your allergy symptoms mild as well. The amount of humidity in your home greatly affects your indoor air quality and can irritate your allergies. Investing in a dehumidifier is a great way to control your indoor humidity levels.

Keep Your Home Clean

Keeping your home clean is one of the most important things you can do for your AC unit to reduce allergies. Upholstery, rugs, and carpets can hold in dust, allergens, and other particles that can affect the quality of the air you breathe. That’s why it’s essential to clean them regularly.

Pollen clings to almost any surface, including your shoes and clothes. Remember to take off your shoes when you come into your home, and clean regularly to eliminate the particles you accidentally bring in. Dusting, especially in hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fans, is another great way to help combat pollen and other small particles.

Schedule Routine AC Maintenance

The best way to ensure your AC unit is running smoothly is through routine HVAC maintenance.  Because there are multiple components within your unit that require maintenance from a certified HVAC technician, scheduling professional maintenance twice per year is recommended.

During your bi-annual AC maintenance appointment, your HVAC technician will inspect your entire unit and offer recommendations to improve your indoor air quality. These recommendations may include technical improvements like upgraded air filters, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers. They may even recommend some easy lifestyle changes you and your family can try to improve your home’s air quality.

By joining a maintenance plan like AC Designs Preferred Customer Maintenance Program, you can have regular HVAC maintenance performed on your unit and keep it working to the best of its ability. On top of that, joining our maintenance program helps save you money on HVAC costs in the long run.

If you’re looking for AC maintenance for spring to help reduce allergens in your home, contact our team at AC Designs. We take pride in being the number one family-owned and operated AC company in Jacksonville, Florida, and we’re ready to help you with all your HVAC needs.

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How to Fix Common AC Problems

Thursday, March 17th, 2022

An efficient AC unit is the key to staying in your comfort zone during the hot Florida summer. Investing in an AC Maintenance Program is one great way to optimize your home cooling. In between your pre-scheduled visits, you may notice some smaller issues that compromise your home comfort. Luckily, many of the problems homeowners encounter can easily be fixed by following a few tips from the experts. If your home comfort is suffering due to these common AC problems, here’s what you can do.

Unit Cycles On and Off

One of the most common AC problems homeowners deal with is short cycling. There are a few reasons your air conditioning unit starts and stops every few minutes. A faulty thermostat, dirty air filter, or refrigerant leak may be the culprit.

To find the root of your problem, you’ll want to start by performing a quick inspection of each of these components. If your air filter is dirty or hasn’t been replaced in the past three months, go ahead and replace it. A clean air filter is a crucial component of an efficient AC unit. If this doesn’t mitigate the problem, try checking your thermostat.

If you think your thermostat is failing, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot it. If your thermostat’s screen is blank or unlighted, it likely needs to be replaced. The location of your thermostat can also impact how it functions. If your thermostat is in direct sunlight, or if it is located on a wall with large openings or holes behind it, your temperature readings may be inaccurate. Before replacing your thermostat, try checking the settings, batteries, and circuit breakers first. If you have confirmed these elements are not at fault, then it may be time to replace your thermostat.

The last reason your unit may be short cycling is if you have a refrigerant leak. If this is the case, you’ll need to repair the leak before adding more refrigerant to your unit. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact an HVAC professional to help locate the source of the leak and facilitate the repair.

A/C Blows Hot Air

There’s not much worse than seeking comfort in your home, only to find your AC unit is blowing hot air. If your A/C unit is running, but blowing hot or lukewarm air, you are likely dealing with a low refrigerant level. Luckily, this can easily be fixed by recharging your system with new refrigerant. Be sure to inspect your unit for leaks beforehand. If your refrigerant is leaking, refilling it will not solve your problem.

A/C Running Constantly

We know you want to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, but your unit shouldn’t be running constantly in order to do so. Your A/C unit’s thermostat is responsible for measuring the room’s ambient air so that it knows when to turn on to reduce the indoor temperature. If your thermostat is incorrectly measuring the room’s temperature, it will instruct your unit to keep running until it reaches your set temperature. Reaching this goal temperature can be impossible if your thermostat is faulty.

Fortunately, this problem can be easily remedied by replacing your home’s thermostat. AC Designs offers a number of different solutions when it comes to system controls. From smart thermostats to zone control systems, we have you covered.

Whether your AC unit is displaying a common or unique problem, AC Designs can help you get your home back to its comfort zone. Schedule regular air conditioning services in Jacksonville, FL with one of our NATE-certified professionals today to ensure that every component of your system is performing its function efficiently and properly.

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Why You Should Activate AC Designs Parts & Labor Warranty

Thursday, March 17th, 2022

AC repairs can be expensive, so we always recommend adding an extended warranty to help cover unforeseen costs. Adding an AC warranty is a smart, preventative measure to protect your wallet and your unit in case it stops running efficiently or breaks down. If your new unit is through AC Designs, you can add this extra protection by filling out a simple form.

New units often come with a manufacturer warranty, but these are not all-inclusive and they expire over time. Because of this, it’s important to secure a warranty with an expert like AC Designs that covers both parts and labor.

Manufacturer Warranties Explained

What a manufacturer’s warranty covers can be lost in fine print or unclear to buyers. Most new AC units come with a 5-year manufacturer limited warranty. They typically cover certain parts, like the compressor, that fail before they should, and manufacturer defects, during the warranty period.

The fact that these manufacturer warranties are “limited” is important to remember. That means you are not covered for everything that could go wrong with your air conditioner.

Also keep in mind that a manufacturer’s warranty does not cover labor costs for repairs. While the manufacturer may replace a part at no cost, you will still need to hire a licensed HVAC technician to install it. You will also need to pay for the initial cost for a service technician to diagnose the problem. Some manufacturers will not honor a warranty if you can’t provide proof of yearly completed AC maintenance.

Benefits of a Parts and Labor Warranty

Even a brand new unit can be susceptible to breakdowns without expert installation, cleaning, and routine maintenance. Since manufacturer parts warranties are limited in coverage, it’s crucial to consider an extended warranty. A parts and labor warranty ensures quality AC maintenance and repair from the day you purchase your unit, through installation, to future repairs and beyond.

You can add a labor warranty through the AC company that you hire to make repairs. When selecting the best HVAC warranty for you, you’ll want to make sure you ask your HVAC company about the following:

  • How long does the warranty last?
  • What can void the warranty?
  • What does the warranty cover?

Don’t forget, many warranties expire within 3-7 years. Luckily, at AC Designs, we are proud to offer the best 12-year parts and labor warranty on the market for select units, which comes with your new unit after activation. The moment you activate a parts and labor warranty through us, you can rest easy knowing you’re covered for future repairs.

Protecting Your AC Warranty

When you add an AC warranty to your unit, you should take some time to learn more about protecting your investment. Be careful, as there are a few things that can void your warranty. These include failing to register the product as directed, hiring a technician who installs the unit improperly, and not keeping up with routine HVAC maintenance.

Using parts that are not approved by the warranty will almost automatically void the warranty. Additionally, you should keep a record of your purchase and receipts that prove that maintenance was performed on your unit. A qualified HVAC company like AC Designs will keep your unit and warranty safe and sound. 

Let AC Designs Keep Your AC Unit Running

With the unpredictable heat and weather that comes with living in Florida, it’s essential to have an AC warranty. Keeping your AC running efficiently and protected will help you enjoy endless summer for years to come.

Add the right warranty with confidence. Contact AC Designs, the leading family-owned AC company in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, to see if your unit is eligible for a warranty today.

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How to Protect Your AC Warranty

Tuesday, November 2nd, 2021

Not all AC unit warranties are created equally. At AC Designs, our 10-Year Parts and Labor Warranty is one of the best warranties on the market.  Taking steps to protect your AC warranty is always a good idea. But understanding the details of your AC warranty like what it covers and its duration, is crucial to keep it protected. Find out what you can expect from your warranty below.

Benefits of Purchasing an AC Unit Warranty

We understand that AC units and repairs are expensive. But especially in the sunshine state, they are important to stay comfortable year-round. That is why AC companies, like AC Designs, offer warranties to protect your investment.

Most new air conditioners come with a manufacturer warranty already. But the company installing them may also offer their own labor warranty. These ensure quality AC maintenance from the day you make the purchase, through installation, for future repairs and beyond.

Additional air conditioning warranties for equipment cover faulty part malfunctions and failures. If your system quits because of a manufacturer error and that part is still under warranty, it will likely be replaced by the manufacturer for free.

Choosing the Right Warranty

With so many companies fighting for your business, take the time you need to sift through all the information regarding their warranties. Before signing anything, ask these questions that could save you time and money:

  • How long does the warranty last? The average AC unit lasts between 10 and 15 years. You will want to confirm that the warranty lasts for a significant period of the AC unit’s lifespan, but does not go over the average timespan.
  • Is there a warranty processing fee? Sometimes manufacturers will charge you for any paperwork, even if the warranty covers the part you need.
  • What could void the warranty? This is one of the most important sections of the warranty to read. Depending on the warranty, these four small steps will keep your warranty from being voided.
    • Choosing to work with a qualified AC company
    • Registering your AC unit after installation
    • Scheduling annual AC maintenance
    • Using trusted products for your AC unit repairs.
  • What does the warranty cover? Labor? Equipment? Both? Most warranties will cover one or the other. Do your research before making any commitments.

AC Designs has one of the best AC warranties in the industry. When comparing AC Designs to other companies’ warranties, you’ll notice one big difference between them. AC Designs covers parts and labor when most others only include parts. Choosing the AC Designs warranty gets you 10 years of exceptional service on your AC unit’s parts and labor.

Ways to Protect Your AC Warranty

All of the fine print is exhausting. However, it is imperative that you read the entire warranty to ensure you understand what could void your contract. While scanning the document, take note of anything that may not make sense to you. Ask questions in order to understand the exact terms and details of your warranty.

After purchasing your warranty, the last thing you want is your manufacturer declining to cover a repair. If you feel confused or uninformed, don’t stay quiet. Instead, gain clarity on your contract to avoid breaking the terms of your warranty and continue to get the parts and labor you paid for.

While all warranties are different, here are some of the most common ways people break their warranties. Avoiding these will help you protect your air conditioning warranty:

  • Not registering the product as directed
  • Hiring a technician who installs the unit improperly
  • Failing to schedule/perform routine AC maintenance
  • Throwing away receipts/documentation that prove maintenance was performed
  • Using parts not approved by the warranty on their unit

One of the best ways to keep your warranty protected is by working with a qualified HVAC company that employs NATE-certified technicians. This will help ensure that your unit is installed and maintained properly.

Choosing the right warranty comes down to asking questions to stay informed on all terms and conditions. Know what to expect from your AC warranty so you know how to handle any issues that may arise. Protect yours today with AC Designs, professional HVAC company in Jacksonville, FL. Call AC Designs to schedule your bi-annual maintenance.

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Choosing the Right A/C System For Your Northeast Florida Home

Friday, October 15th, 2021

Choosing the Right A/C System for Your Northeast Florida Home

Not all A/C systems are designed to handle the extreme Northeast Florida heat or humidity. If your A/C unit leaves your home too hot and stuffy or needs constant repairs, it’s time for a change. Don’t let poor air quality stop you from doing what you love at home. Get back to your comfort zone today by finding the perfect A/C system for your Northeast Florida home.

A hermit crab looking for a new shell

Find the Right Size

Your unit needs to be large enough to keep your whole home cool and comfortable. That said, bigger is not always better. Oversized equipment cycles on and off more frequently, shortening its lifespan and making your home less comfortable. You’ll need a certified technician, like the professionals at A/C Designs, to take measurements of your home and calculate the proper size needed for today’s standards. 

 

An illustrated bulldog laying in a hammock

Maximize Energy Efficiency 

Why spend more on your energy bills than you need to? Check for the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) when comparing units to help keep your bills low. The minimum required SEER for units installed in Northeast Florida is 14, so look for units with SEER ratings of 14 up to 25. The higher the number, the more efficient your system. 

Consider Humidity Control

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High humidity levels cause discomfort for Northeast Florida homeowners year-round. Many homeowners don’t realize that an efficient A/C unit can dehumidify their home when they have a high Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR). This rating shows how much moisture a unit removes from the air. Systems need a rating of at least 0.7 to handle our summer heat, but this rating often isn’t listed on unit labels. A/C Designs will make certain you’ve chosen a unit with proper SHR for your home. If your home feels cool but clammy, with heavy, stuffy air, ask us about adding a whole-home dehumidifier to your installation package as well. 

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Improve Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air that you breathe makes a huge difference in your home comfort. In Northeast Florida, pollen, mold and mildew is a constant issue. Thankfully, the right A/C unit can help rid your home of these unwanted pollutants. Choose an A/C system that captures and kills mold, pollens and dust smaller than three microns. At A/C Designs, we also offer supplemental systems such as UV germicidal lights. When added to your A/C unit, these can destroy viruses and bacteria, keeping your home healthy and safe.

Ensure Quality Installation

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Even the best A/C unit can malfunction if it isn’t installed properly. At A/C Designs, our certified technicians ensure that each unit is leveled properly on your property and that all ductwork is connected correctly for maximum efficiency. A/C Designs will keep your systems running smoothly so you never have to worry about your home comfort.

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Find the Best Warranty

Today’s HVAC manufacturers offer a base five-year warranty on parts and compressors. However, HVAC manufacturer warranties don’t always cover all of the risks associated with owning an A/C unit. Many warranties are limited, with risks like accidents, storms and critter damage not covered. When buying a new unit, be sure to ask about warranty coverage. At A/C Designs, we offer an industry-best, ten-year warranty on all parts and compressors as long as you own the home.

 

Choosing the Right A/C System for Your Northeast Florida Home

There’s nothing more important than feeling comfortable in your home. When you choose A/C Designs for all your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs, you can be certain that you’ll stay in your comfort zone for many years to come.

Why Choose A/C Designs?

NATE Certified Technicians

24/7 Emergency Services

Over 5,000 New Units Installed Every Year

Voted Jacksonville’s Best A/C Company 4 Years in a Row

Industry-Best 10-Year Warranties

Serving Northeast Florida for 16+ Years

Locally Owned and Operated

Fully Licensed and Insured #CAC1813372

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