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

Turning Your Heat On? Look Out for These Sounds and Smells

Tuesday, January 17th, 2023

As Florida temperatures begin to drop, homeowners can expect to begin using their heating systems. Before turning the heat on for the first time this season, look out for strange smells or noises that could indicate a need for heating maintenance or repair. At AC Designs, we’re here to provide all the information you need to keep your home comfortable all winter long. 

Tips for Turning Your Heat On

There are a few key tips to keep in mind this winter to ensure that your home is heated safely and efficiently. Test your system and thermostat controls ahead of time to make sure that it still functions properly from the previous winter season. 

Turn your heat on for a minimum of one hour and monitor your thermostat. If warm air doesn’t blow from your vents, contact your HVAC technician to troubleshoot. When it’s finally time to turn the heater on for good, gradually adjust your thermostat until you reach your desired temperature. 

Sudden setting changes can overwork your HVAC unit and cause harmful wear and tear. Instead of switching from cooling to heating overnight, start out on the lowest setting for maximized efficiency. You should also practice other ways to maintain efficiency throughout the winter. 

Keep your curtains and blinds open during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home and reduce strain on your unit. Homeowners should also keep all windows closed to prevent heat from escaping the home. This can overwork your heating system and significantly raise your energy bill. 

Notice a Burning Smell From Heater? Don’t Panic!

An initial burning smell coming from your heat pump is normal after turning it on for the first time in months. This smell can be caused by a build-up of dust on your unit’s heat strips when the heating has not been used for an extended period of time. 

However, if strange smells persist after the heat has been in use for multiple cycles, consider calling a professional HVAC technician. AC Designs will send one of our highly trained professionals to diagnose the smell and ensure that your unit is functioning properly.

Troubleshooting Strange Sounds

Strange sounds coming from your heater can also be a normal part of turning your heating on after an extended time period. However, some sounds may indicate the need for a professional inspection. One common sound to look out for comes from the defrost cycle. 

This cycle occurs when the coil on your outside condensing unit becomes covered in ice or frost. This prevents the unit from functioning properly, causing it to go into the defrost cycle to thaw. Frost covering your unit’s coils is normal, and can sometimes cause a loud whooshing, grinding, or even sizzling sound. In some cases, steam may also appear.

Although they may be loud and alarming, these sounds are a normal part of the cycle as your unit’s coil defrosts. It is important to refrain from disrupting cycling by letting the system run and finish its process without interruption. Once the cycle is complete, your unit should be back to running efficiently.

Sources of Other Strange Sounds

Noises from the defrost cycle should only last 25-45 minutes around twice a day in colder temperatures. Other noises like whistling or squealing may indicate an airflow blockage or more severe problems with the belt or motor. 

Banging

Loud banging sounds coming from your unit after turning it on could indicate ductwork issues. While this noise may require loosening your ducts or adding thicker metal around them, banging noises are easy to remedy with the help of a certified HVAC technician.  

Booming 

If your furnace or HVAC unit is making booming noises, contact your AC technician right away. These sounds could be caused by a gas build-up inside the unit, which can result in an explosion without a proper fix.

Squealing 

Squealing noises typically indicate problems with your unit’s belt or motor. Although unpleasant, these sounds are no cause for concern and typically only require minor repairs. 

Rattling 

If your unit is making a rattling or vibrating sound, this could be an indication of loose ductwork. Tightening the screws is a quick, simple fix to stop the rattling and readjust your ducts. 

Rumbling 

Rumbling can be caused by issues within your unit’s burner as oil or gas uncontrollably burns. If a rumbling noise persists after your furnace is turned on, turn your unit off and immediately contact your AC technician. Continuing to run your unit can emit dangerous carbon monoxide into your home. 

Whistling 

Whistling sounds may be caused by airflow blockage and can often be fixed by changing your air filters and cleaning out your ductwork. If the whistling persists, contact your AC technician to further assess your unit.   

Join AC Designs’ Preferred Maintenance Program

If strange noises persist, contact AC Designs for professional help from our technicians. We encourage homeowners to join our preferred maintenance program for priority scheduling, replacement, and 24-hour emergency service to address issues with your unit as soon as possible 

Schedule an Appointment With Our HVAC Professionals

Turning your heat on for the winter can result in many strange sounds or smells as your unit adjusts. Keep these tips in mind as you turn your heating system on this season so you know when it’s necessary to call a professional for HVAC assistance. Schedule an appointment with AC Designs for all heater repair and maintenance needs.

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What’s the Difference Between Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps?

Tuesday, December 13th, 2022

Choosing the right system to heat and cool your home can be overwhelming. It’s normal to feel confused, especially when you come across unfamiliar AC terms. One common question we hear at AC Designs is: what’s the difference between heat pumps and normal air conditioners?

Many homeowners don’t realize that heat pumps actually are a common type of air conditioning system. They can both heat and cool your home, and they do it efficiently. Here in Northeast Florida, we recommend this type of system for most homeowners. 

Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. That’s why it’s important to understand the pros and cons before you make a big purchase. The AC Designs team is here to help you avoid unnecessary costs and purchase the right unit for you. Here’s everything you need to know about heat pumps and air conditioners to make your decision. 

Heat Pump vs. AC System

Heat pumps and straight cool air conditioning units both have the ability to cool and heat your home. The major difference is how they operate. Heat pump systems heat the home using the outdoor unit, also known as the condenser. They have a higher and quicker capacity for heat than straight cool systems. 

The heating ability of heat pumps is also made through a highly efficient refrigeration process. Straight cool systems are only equipped with electric heating abilities. This can increase electric bills and decrease both efficiency and heating capacity. 

Almost all North Florida homeowners use heat pump systems, as they are widely recommended for warmer climates. However, both heat pumps and HVAC units require regular preventative maintenance to maintain efficiency and increase their lifetimes.

Heat Pump Straight Cool AC Unit
Higher energy efficiency  Higher monthly utility bills 
Lower energy bills Less expensive upkeep
12-15 year average lifespan 15-20 year average lifespan
Less efficient in cold climates Weaker heating capacity

Heat Pump vs. Furnace

Another common type of heating system is the furnace. Furnaces have a higher capacity for heat than any type of system. That’s why they were designed for very cold regions. 

Furnaces can quickly heat the home but are not very energy efficient. Because of that, they can cost more to run. Most of the time, this level of heating capacity is simply not needed in our warmer Florida climate. Plus, the cooling aspect of these systems does not work as well as heat pumps. 

Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner Cost 

Your budget is an important factor when deciding the right heating and cooling system for your home. Straight cool AC units can be cheaper to install and maintain on their own. However, straight cool AC units usually need to be accompanied by a furnace or alternative heating system, which increases costs. 

Heat pumps often have higher initial costs than conventional AC units. On the upside, there are no additional furnace costs required due to their high efficiency. 

Heat Pump vs. AC Efficiency 

When properly maintained, heat pumps offer great advantages in energy efficiency. These systems transfer preexisting heat into or out of your home to heat or cool it. This heat transfer process only requires a small amount of energy and greatly reduces consumption and costs. 

Your system’s SEER or SEER2 rating is a key indicator of its energy efficiency. The best heating and cooling systems have an efficiency rating of 18 to 21 SEER. The higher your system’s efficiency, the lower your energy consumption and electricity bills. Higher efficiency also increases the unit’s ability to dehumidify your home.

Tips to Choose the Right HVAC System

While heat pumps are the most widely recommended heating and cooling system in the Northeast Florida region, the perfect unit differs for every home. Mini split condensers and straight cool units can be beneficial for vacation homes that are vacant for parts of the year to avoid unnecessary costs.

Here are the other factors we recommend considering before you purchase your next unit.

Budget & Financing 

Your AC unit is ultimately an investment in your home. That said, be up front about the budget you are able to spend on your unit. Keep in mind that a system with a higher SEER rating will have lower energy bills in the long run. Also, consider financing options to determine the right payment plan for you. 

Warranty

At AC Designs, we recommend purchasing a unit that includes a 10-12 year parts and labor warranty. That way you can rest easy knowing you’ll be covered and avoid costly repairs down the line. 

Thermostats

Some modern thermostats offer remote access and built-in dehumidification control, but these features may only work with specific HVAC systems. Before making a purchase, consider how important these functions are to your comfort and convenience.

Keep in mind that installing a smart thermostat often requires precise placement on the wall and secure mounting. To avoid drilling unnecessary holes, it helps to understand how to locate studs correctly. This quick guide can walk you through the basics: How Does a Stud Finder Work?

AC Maintenance

Whichever unit you choose for your home, join an AC maintenance plan to get the most out of your HVAC system. Members of AC Design’s maintenance program receive discounted service, priority scheduling and more perks. The goal is to extend your unit’s lifetime and reduce heat pump repair costs and utility bills. 

Schedule a Free In-Home Estimate With AC Designs

Deciding on a new heating and cooling system for your home should be based on many factors. Let our family-owned, local AC company help you determine the right pick to keep your home comfortable. Schedule an appointment with AC Designs today for all your new unit replacement, AC repair and maintenance needs.

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Common Heat Pump Repairs Explained

Tuesday, December 15th, 2020

Heat pumps come highly recommended as energy-efficient heating and cooling systems that are ideally suited for climates like you’d expect in Jacksonville, Florida. These are reliable devices, too, particularly when installed by qualified HVAC technicians, and when serviced through routine maintenance. Even so, problems can arise with heat pumps, so let’s take a look at what heat pumps are, and the common types of issues and repairs you can expect.

What is a Heat Pump, and What Does it Do?

To understand some common heat pump problems and how they might be repaired, it helps to understand how these fixtures work. They’re surprisingly simple, usually made up of two components, which would be the condenser unit on the outside of the home, and an indoor unit that vents hot or cold air into the home.

Heat pumps serve as both heating and cooling units, and they are reversible as your need for heating and cooling changes throughout the year. In warmer months, you can set them to air conditioning, and the reversing valve will pump cooled air into your home, while in the cooler months, you can set the unit to heat. This works exactly the same as the air conditioning part of the process, but instead of removing warm air from inside the home, the pump reverses to compress the refrigerant, which heats the refrigerant and allows the pump to blow warm air over the refrigerant coils and into the home.

Common Heat Pump Issues

When it comes to heat pump problems, there are a few common themes. Some of these include:

  • The pump isn’t providing enough heat. As with many issues like this, when a heat pump isn’t heating enough, it’s time to call a technician right away because the problem could get worse—and it could get worse quickly.
  • Problems switching into heating mode. Heat pumps are designed to switch between heating and cooling, and if yours won’t switch from one mode to the other, then it’s time for repairs.
  • Unusual noises can signify a problem, so if you hear banging or hissing noises, you’ll want to schedule a diagnostic.

Common Ways to Repair a Heat Pump

Repairs depend on what has gone wrong with the heat pump, but just the same as there are common themes in heat pump problems, there are usually also some common fixes that are quick and easy for a qualified technician.

  • When the pump isn’t providing enough heat, it may be that leaky refrigerant lines need to be repaired. This is also a likely repair if the unit is producing unusual hissing sounds.
  • Banging sounds could signify that the compressor needs repair or replacement, or that a fan needs to be replaced.
  • When heat pumps won’t switch between heating and cooling, the most common causes are either a malfunctioning thermostat or a malfunctioning reversing valve—and both are issues that can be corrected by replacing these parts.

If you’re experiencing issues with your heat pump system, or if you’re considering having such a system installed, don’t hesitate to contact A/C Designs. We can help you save on repairs and new installations alike, and our technicians have the industry expertise to handle your concerns quickly.

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How to Avoid Creating Hot & Cold Spots in Your Home

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

Your HVAC system can help your Jacksonville home feel cooler or warmer as needed. However, you might notice that certain areas feel warmer or colder than others. Knowing how this might happen and what you can do to prevent it from occurring can help you keep your home feeling much more comfortable this season.

Replace HVAC Filters

Preventing hot and cold spots in your home might be as simple as changing your HVAC filter. The filter in your HVAC system traps particles and stops them from getting into your home’s indoor air. This results in HVAC filters that are covered with dust and other particles over time. When filters are coated with these particles, they aren’t able to work as well. This can cause your HVAC system to run more often or work harder at keeping your home warm in winter, which can result in more wear and tear. Replacing your current HVAC filter with a new one helps ensure that your HVAC system can work more efficiently and heat your home more evenly.

Check Your Airflow 

Air should be able to go through vents, ducts, and registers without any blockages. Clogged or damaged ducts can affect airflow, which makes it harder to maintain even temperatures throughout your home. Having furniture or other large items in front of vents and registers can also make it more difficult for air to move without any obstruction. Ensuring that you have good airflow in your home can help lower the risk of ending up in spots that are too hot or too cold.

Add Insulation if Needed 

Insulation helps your home stay warmer in winter. If certain areas in your home feel colder than they should, check to see if you have enough insulation. You might need to add insulation to areas that tend to get colder than others, even when the heat’s running. Keep in mind that proper insulation can help you heat your home more efficiently all winter long.

Double Check Your HVAC Size 

Is your HVAC system the right size for your home? If parts of your home feel colder than others in winter, you might have an HVAC system that’s too small for your heating needs. Have a professional HVAC expert help you determine if your HVAC system is properly sized for your Jacksonville home. Keep in mind that zone control systems are an option that allow you to better control the temperature in different parts of your home.

Use Ceiling Fans 

Ceiling fans aren’t just for staying cooler in summer. You can turn ceiling fans on so that they run clockwise in winter. This helps distribute heated air more evenly in rooms, which can eliminate hot and cold spots.

Contact Us A/C Designs

If you need help balancing the temperature throughout your home, we can help. Contact A/C Designs today for all of your HVAC needs. Our team offers timely and reliable repairs, maintenance, and installations in and around Jacksonville.

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Heat Pump Reverse Valve: How It Works

Thursday, November 14th, 2019

If your HVAC system has a heat pump, you already know that this term can seem like a misnomer: after all, in Jacksonville’s mild climate, the heat pump provides far more cool air than warm. This ability to produce air at a wide range of temperatures can be attributed to the reversing valve, a metal cylinder with a slide that moves back and forth to switch between the heating and cooling modes. Read on to learn more about the heat pump’s reversing valve and some signs that your valve may be in need of repair or replacement.

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Four Common Heat Pump Issues, Explained

Thursday, January 17th, 2019

Even Florida’s balmy climate can go on vacation during the winter months, and many Sunshine State residents find themselves reaching for the thermostat when temperatures dip into jacket weather. If you find that your furnace is constantly cycling on and off or just doesn’t seem to be getting your home as warm as it normally does, you may be facing a heat pump problem.

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Defrost Cycle: How It Works

Wednesday, December 26th, 2018

Did you know that your heating and air conditioning unit will need to run through a defrost cycle at various times of the year? This important feature is designed to help your unit work properly throughout the cooler winter months. In fact, without the defrost cycle, and the regular maintenance provided by trusted professionals, your HVAC won’t be able to operate properly.

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Could a Heat Pump Be the Perfect Comfort System for Your Home?

Monday, January 23rd, 2017

comfortable-familyA lot of people rely on window AC units and portable heaters for home comfort throughout the year. But this simply is not the best option if you’re looking for long-term efficiency. Most likely, you don’t feel as comfortable as you would like. And you’re spending more than you have to just to cool or heat small portions of your house at a time.

When we hear about homeowner’s year-round home comfort woes, we often recommend a heat pump. Heat pumps are not just for heating. They are actually some of the most efficient air conditioning systems around, that just so happen to be extremely efficient for heat in our climate as well.

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New Technology Makes Variable-Speed Heat Pumps Highly Efficient

Monday, January 2nd, 2017

When you’re shopping around for a new comfort system, you’ll have a wide range of options available. Heat pumps are some of the most efficient systems there are if you live in a climate like ours, where we rarely need heating but still want an efficient system for both cooling and heating.

And today, heat pumps are even more efficient than they’ve ever been before.

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