A/C Designs of St. Augustine, LLC Blog: Posts Tagged ‘A/C Designs’

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. 

 

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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

An illustrated animal holding an umbrella

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. 

An illustrated skunk sitting on an AC unit

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

An illustrated osprey inspecting the inside of an AC unit

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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SEER Ratings: What You Need to Know

Monday, September 20th, 2021

There are many factors to consider when shopping for a new A/C unit. Choosing the right unit for your home relies on many factors. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t understand the importance of choosing the right SEER rating for their homes. Here’s what you need to know about SEER ratings in order to choose the most efficient air conditioning system for your home.

What is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The rating is created by calculating the annual cooling output during the cooling season divided by the total electric energy input. An air conditioner unit with a higher SEER rating typically uses less electricity to set your home at a comfortable temperature. When a unit uses less electricity, it will reduce your energy and gas bill.

What is a Good SEER Rating?

The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners is 13. Most modern air conditioners have a SEER rating that ranges from 13 to 21. Although a higher SEER rating does typically equate to better efficiency, it does not mean you need to choose a unit with the highest rating.

A 20 SEER rated unit could be too large to efficiently cool your house will likely underperform when compared to an appropriately-sized unit. A SEER rating indicates your unit’s maximum potential. Your unit will not always run at this rating, so it’s important to be aware of the unit’s average SEER performance to properly determine the unit’s efficiency. You can typically find a sticker on the side of your condenser indicating the average SEER performance ratings. Reach out to A/C Designs if you’re unsure of where your sticker is located, it could be missing or damaged.

How Do I Choose a SEER Rating?

On average, a good rating for residential air conditioners ranges from 14 to 16 SEER. In order to choose the right rating, you will need to consider various factors. Take into consideration your budget, the size of your home, and how often you run the A/C. A/C Designs’ NATE-certified HVAC technicians can help you determine the most appropriate SEER rating for your home.

A SEER rating is just one of the many factors to consider when shopping for a new HVAC unit. Finding the perfect unit to fit your comfort and budget is made simple when you book with A/C Designs. Schedule an appointment today to begin discussing your new unit installation in Jacksonville, FL.

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Cooling Tips for Multi-Story Homes

Monday, August 23rd, 2021

If you live in a multi-story home, you may notice uneven cooling throughout the house. A temperature discrepancy between the floors of your home likely indicates an issue with the way your HVAC unit is set up or running. There are a few ways to optimize your home for multi-story cooling. These cooling tips will help you cool your multi-story home efficiently.

A Multi-Zone System for a Multi-Story Home

Your multi-story home requires a different cooling system than a single-story home. When your home is two stories or taller, a multi-zone cooling system is necessary for optimal cooling. A multi-zone system uses separate blower fans and dampers to redirect airflow, allowing you to control each floor of your home with multiple thermostats.

If your home is not set up with a multi-zone system, schedule an appointment with A/C Designs to modify your system for zoned control. Our HVAC technicians in Jacksonville, FL can help you decide if a zone control system installation is right for your heating and cooling habits.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great option for homeowners looking for a little more control over their energy consumption. By setting different heating and cooling programs, you can maintain regular, efficient temperatures while you are not home.

Choosing an ideal temperature is an important step. If your ideal temperature is 76 degrees, set the top floor of your home to this setting. For each lower level, set the temperature two degrees cooler. This will help for optimal cooling.

Energy-Saving Tips for Multi-Story Homes

There are many energy-efficient ways to promote ideal cooling in your home. Try using ceiling fans regularly to promote air circulation. Keep in mind that during the summer, the most energy-efficient temperature for your home is 78 degrees.

It’s important to check your unit’s air filters regularly. A dirty air filter will limit circulation and cause more problems down the line. Check to ensure that your attic is properly insulated in order to keep heat and moisture out.

Get back to your comfort zone with a multi-zone system today. Schedule an appointment with our HVAC technicians today to set up your home’s zone-controlled HVAC system and receive more cooling tips for your multi-story home.

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How to Prep Your A/C Unit for a Hurricane

Monday, August 16th, 2021

When you live in Florida, your home needs to be prepared for storms during and after hurricane season. Many homeowners overlook their HVAC unit when preparing for storms. Avoid making this mistake by following these tips to prep your A/C unit for a hurricane or other Florida storm in St. Augustine or Jacksonville.

Preparing Your Indoor Unit

Ideally, you should begin hurricane HVAC preparation for your A/C units a few hours in advance. Let your air conditioner cool your home to a comfortable temperature in the hours before the storm. Try setting the thermostat a few degrees cooler than you normally would.

Consider investing in a surge protector specifically designed for your HVAC unit. A surge protector is an excellent way to fend off damage caused by lightning strikes and power surges.

Protecting Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit will likely bear the brunt of the hurricane. Make sure the outdoor unit is ready by clearing your yard of any nearby objects or debris. During the storm, items in your yard will likely fly around and can potentially damage your unit. Trim back trees and branches away from your unit with the help of a professional, if necessary.

Once you have cleared your yard, it is a good idea to elevate and cover your system. High winds can knock down branches and damage your unit, so it’s important to keep it covered.

After the Storm

It can be tempting to turn your A/C unit on as soon as the storm passes, but try to avoid doing so. Turning your unit on immediately can cause extreme damage if there is standing water in your unit. The first thing you should do once the storm passes, is perform a visual inspection of your outdoor and indoor units. Be sure to remove the covering on your outdoor unit to avoid trapping in moisture that could lead to mold.

Look for water damage, listen for strange noises, and take photos of any damage to send to your insurance company. Once you have assessed your unit, you should clean away any dirt or debris. Keep our Hurricane Prep Guide nearby when caring for your A/C unit before and after a hurricane.

If you suspect that your unit suffered some damage or want an extra set of eyes, schedule an appointment immediately with a NATE-certified HVAC technician. Book an appointment with A/C Designs for storm and everyday HVAC maintenance in Jacksonville, FL.

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5 Common Summertime HVAC Problems

Thursday, July 15th, 2021

When you live in Florida, you become accustomed to the 90-degree weather. Unfortunately, your A/C unit may not be as prepared. Summertime can pose many seasonal problems for your HVAC unit. We’ve prepared the 5 most common summertime HVAC problems and provided easy solutions to help you keep your family cool this summer.

Dirty Filters

One of the simplest ways to maximize your A/C unit’s efficiency is to ensure your filters are clean. A dirty filter will make your unit run less efficiently and worsen your home’s air quality. While most filters are typically replaced every three months, changing them more often in the summer will drastically improve your home’s air conditioning.

During the summer in Florida, most homeowners blast their A/C units all season long. The more your A/C unit is running, the more often you will need to replace your filter. If you notice your unit running less efficiently in the summer, your filters likely need to be replaced.

Low Refrigerant Levels

There’s nothing worse than turning your A/C system on, listening as the fans rev up, just to feel hot air coming through your vents. If your unit’s fans are not blowing cool air, this is likely due to a leak resulting in low refrigerant levels. While this is a common summertime issue, you will need to contact an HVAC technician to professionally seal any leaks and add new coolant to your system.

Failing Capacitors

One of the most common summer problems for A/C units are failed capacitors. If your A/C struggles to start-up and ultimately fails, your capacitor is failing. More often than not, capacitors fail during the hottest months of the year.

The best way to avoid a capacitor problem is to schedule regular maintenance with a certified HVAC company. During routine maintenance, an HVAC technician will be able to spot a weakened capacitor and fix it before it fails during the summer.

Outdoor Fan Malfunction

Summer can be a great time to get ahead on outdoor projects and to break out the lawnmower. However, be wary of any debris, grass, and other items that may damage your outdoor unit. If the fan in your outdoor unit is not encased and protected properly, the blades can be easily damaged by debris.

Fan blades that become damaged will start to bend and cause further damage to your unit. Keep your outdoor unit safe all summer long by keeping any debris, footballs, and toys away from your unit.

Clogged Drain Hoses

A large part of your unit’s job is to pull humidity from the air and keep your home’s humidity levels balanced. As the unit works, the condensed water will leave the system through a drainage line. If this line becomes clogged, your system will begin experiencing problems, including dangerous standing water underneath the system.

With heightened humidity during the summer in Florida, this problem can be very serious. Fortunately, a skilled HVAC technician can flush the drains to remove any clogs.

Florida’s intense summers pose an issue for many aspects of our lives. With these best practices and regular maintenance, you can ensure your home’s A/C system is prepared to keep you comfortable all season long. Schedule a maintenance appointment with the NATE-certified HVAC technicians at A/C Designs today to stay ahead of these common summertime HVAC problems.

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National HVAC Tech Day

Monday, June 21st, 2021

It’s National HVAC Tech Day! Find out why we celebrate our HVAC techs and how you can show your appreciation.

What is National HVAC Tech Day?

National HVAC Tech Day was founded in 2016, in order to recognize the good work of all HVAC technicians in the industry who keep our units working year-round. Central heating and air conditioning were largely invented in the 1900s giving homeowners control over their indoor comfort. Great strides have been made since then in the heating and cooling industry.

Why Do We Celebrate?

These systems couldn’t operate efficiently without reliable A/C maintenance. HVAC technicians can keep our systems running due to their skillset and advanced technology. These techs work in extreme conditions to help homeowners and renters improve their home’s comfort.

Oftentimes, your HVAC technician will recommend ways to save money on the right system for your home or office. That’s why on June 22nd, we show love and appreciation to our HVAC technicians.

Ways to Show Appreciation

If your HVAC tech makes sure your system stays running correctly and gives you good advice, you can show them appreciation in a few ways:

  • Say thank you
    A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Most people just want to know they are appreciated.
  • Leave a review
    Technicians love when you leave amazing reviews. Show your support for your favorite technician by leaving them a personalized review!
  • Share a picture
    Use social media and share a picture of your HVAC tech, HVAC company, or your system with the hashtag #NationalHVACTechDay.
  • Do the work
    Your system won’t work well if you aren’t keeping up with things after your tech has done their job. That means you must change the air filters on a regular basis, insulate your home, and keep up with your maintenance appointments. This makes your technician’s job a little easier.

These are just a few ways you can remember your technician on HVAC Tech Day. As one of the premier firms of HVAC technicians Jacksonville, FL has to offer, you’ll always be in good hands with A/C Designs. For more information, book an appointment with our team of HVAC experts today!

Thank Your HVAC Technician Today – Leave a Review!

Here are a couple of reviews celebrating the A/C Designs’ team!

“Always exceptional professional service. Kevin’s HVAC knowledge is outstanding and his customer service second to none. He never forgets to walk us through the maintenance process and debriefing after service completion. With A/C Design we know that we’re getting the best service. That’s why we’ve been with the company since our house was built in 2017.” – John T.

“Fair price, professional, a clean, quality install. Alex and Jeremy did a great job. I am very happy that I chose AC Designs.” – Rick W.

“Jacob was very professional and polite the entire time during the job. He took the time to explain what was being done and how it affects the system. I would definitely recommend.” – Chan L.

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HVAC Tips and Tricks for New Homeowners

Monday, June 14th, 2021

When you move into a new home, it’s important to make sure your HVAC system stays in good condition. This helps reduce the risk of damage or other problems while also ensuring your HVAC unit reaches its lifespan. Keep the following HVAC tips and tricks in mind, and your new home will stay comfortable throughout the summer.

Understand Your HVAC Unit

When moving to a new home, you should find out the age and efficiency rating of your HVAC system. A home that’s 10 or more years old is likely to have an older A/C unit that will need to be replaced. Older HVAC systems also have lower efficiency ratings.

Ask for the results of the former owner’s HVAC inspection to see how old it is and whether there were any problems with it. You should also be familiar with the terms and conditions of the HVAC system’s warranty if it has one.

DIY Maintenance

At your new home, you can take steps to maintain your HVAC system. These include changing air filters as often as needed to maintain good HVAC efficiency and removing debris and weeds from around the outdoor unit. You should also seal your home to prevent drafts since this can cause you to use your HVAC system more.

Have a programmable thermostat installed in order to decrease the amount of energy your HVAC system uses when you’re not home. Using curtains or other window coverings can also help you run your HVAC system less often, resulting in less wear and tear.

Keep Up With Professional Maintenance

You should have professional A/C maintenance done on your HVAC unit on an annual basis. Going without maintenance could cost you an extra 20 percent on your energy bills. Routine maintenance helps you save on heating and cooling costs while also improving your air quality and extending the lifespan of your HVAC system.

You’ll also have a lower risk of needing emergency HVAC repairs. Join A/C Designs Preferred Customer Maintenance Program, which provides you with important benefits, including two pre-scheduled system checks each year, a 20 percent discount on repairs, same-day service, and more.

HVAC Tips and Tricks

HVAC checklist for new homeowners

Knowing more about your new A/C unit and scheduling HVAC maintenance are crucial parts of ensuring your system lasts for years and runs smoothly. Book an appointment today with the HVAC experts at A/C Designs.

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Tips to Improve Air Quality & Make Indoor Air Safer to Breathe

Monday, May 24th, 2021

Your home’s indoor air quality can affect your health, especially if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions. Taking steps to improve air quality means you’ll have safer and cleaner air to breathe. Keeping these important tips to improve air quality in mind will help you make a healthier home.

Keep Your Home Clean

Making sure your home is clean on a regular basis is an effective way to improve your indoor air quality. You should vacuum all of the carpeting and rugs in your home once or twice a week to remove dust and other debris. Cleaning your bedding, curtains, and other fabrics throughout your home also helps cut down on the amount of dust and other debris that get into the air.

You can help reduce dust and other debris in your home by using dust mite-proof covers on all of your mattresses, box springs, and pillows. While you should be washing these regularly, these special covers also help keep them clean in between washes. Getting rid of trash and clutter in your home is another way to limit the amount of dust, allergens, pollutants, and other harmful particles that get into the air.

Change Your Filters

The air filters your HVAC system uses can have a big impact on the quality of your indoor air. These filters should be as clean as possible in order to cut down on indoor air pollution. Otherwise, pollutants and other particles can get into your air when your air conditioning or heating is running.

Consider using HEPA filters rather than regular air filters; HEPA filters are able to catch dust, pollen, other allergens, smoke, and other particles more effectively. Look for an air filter with a higher minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. These filters can remove tiny pollen and dust particles from your air.

You should use a filter replacement every three months, or sooner if needed. You should also change the filters in your vacuum cleaner and other appliances on a regular basis.

Control Humidity Indoors

Having the right amount of indoor humidity is an important part of keeping the air clean. Too much humidity, especially in bathrooms and other moist areas, allows mildew and mold to grow. These can lead to significant health issues like respiratory problems.

Because the summer months can make your home even hotter and more humid, you should take steps to lower your indoor humidity. Using a dehumidifier can help with this issue. Dehumidifiers are able to eliminate excess moisture in the air, which helps reduce the risk of mold. Having a lower humidity level during summer also keeps your home feeling more comfortable overall.

Following these tips means you can enjoy having healthier and cleaner air inside your home. Getting air purifiers and measuring indoor air quality from time to time can also help. Contact the indoor air quality experts at A/C Designs to schedule an appointment if you need additional help.

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