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

How to Prepare Your A/C Unit for Summer

Monday, May 17th, 2021

With temperatures heating up, this is a good time to make sure your air conditioning unit is ready. This helps ensure that your home feels comfortable and cool no matter how hot it is outside. Keep these HVAC tips in mind to prepare your A/C unit for a hot Florida summer.

Cleaning the Indoor Unit

Central air conditioning unit cleaning includes preparing the indoor and outdoor unit. To get your indoor unit ready, you should change the air filters. These filters get covered in debris and dust over time, which can cause your air conditioning to run less efficiently. Clean air filters improve the unit’s efficiency and indoor air quality.

Consider upgrading your thermostat to a programmable one this summer. Programmable thermostats allow you to program settings that reduce how much air conditioning your home uses at certain times, such as when you’re out of the house. Other cleaning tasks for your indoor unit include checking your ductwork for air leaks and cleaning the condensation lines.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit

When you’re getting ready to prepare your A/C unit for summer, you’ll need to clean your outdoor unit. Air conditioner cleaning on this unit helps ensure that your HVAC system works properly throughout the season. You should clean the coils on this unit since they can become coated in mud, dust, and other kinds of debris. If the coils are slightly dirty, shut off the power to the outdoor unit and spray it down using a garden hose.

Cleaning the outdoor unit also involves wiping down the fins using a soft toothbrush. This helps remove debris from these fins. Other tasks to do when preparing your A/C unit include making sure the concrete slab it sits on is even. You can use a level to even it out if needed.

You should also get rid of any weeds, branches, twigs, and other debris that is around your outdoor unit. This kind of debris can blow airflow through your outdoor A/C unit.

Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Having annual preventative maintenance done on your HVAC system helps ensure that it’s able to run at maximum efficiency throughout the year. These appointments allow HVAC technicians to check the components of your HVAC system to make sure they’re in good condition.

These technicians can also inspect parts of your HVAC system that you might not be able to check or clean on your own. If your A/C has any problems, HVAC technicians can find them early during maintenance visits and make repairs when needed. This helps lower the risk of having your air conditioning stop working during summer or develop major problems that require emergency repairs.

Putting these HVAC cleaning tips to use is a great way to keep your energy bills lower while still having a cool home all summer long. Routine maintenance is also an important part of preparing your HVAC system for summer. Please contact the experts at A/C Designs today to schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment.

Tags: A/C Designs, ac company jacksonville, AC Installation, ac issues, AC Maintenance
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Is It Time to Upgrade Your A/C?

Friday, April 23rd, 2021

Whether you have an older HVAC system or different cooling needs these days, you might not be sure if it’s time for an upgrade. Ensuring that you have an HVAC system that runs efficiently and meets your cooling needs is important to keep your home comfortable. The following signs can help you decide if you need to upgrade your A/C this season.

Common Signs It’s Time to Upgrade

The age of your HVAC system is one sign to consider. If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to upgrade. A new system can provide you with more efficient and reliable cooling all year long, without the heightened risk of needing repairs.

Other signs to watch for include increasing energy bill expenses and an A/C unit that breaks down often. Energy bills that are increasing for no apparent reason mean that your system isn’t running efficiently. It’s also time for an upgrade if your heating or cooling system is making unusual sounds or giving off strange or unpleasant odors. An A/C upgrade can also help if your home does not have good indoor air quality.

Get an Energy Assessment

Before you decide it’s time for a new HVAC system, check for air leaks that could be affecting its efficiency. Seal up gaps that could be letting hot air in your home during the hot months, and make sure that your home is properly insulated. You should have an energy assessment performed professionally to evaluate how much energy your home is using and what might be causing too much energy consumption. An energy efficiency professional might determine that your HVAC system doesn’t need to be replaced just yet.

Upgrading Your System

If an energy assessment indicates it’s time for a new HVAC unit or if you have any common signs that an upgrade is needed, the HVAC professionals at A/C Designs can help. We offer professional A/C installation and HVAC repair. Our NATE certified technicians can help you choose the right HVAC system for your home’s cooling needs. This depends on ventilation needs, weather conditions, the size of your home, your home’s insulation levels, and your windows.

Our team can evaluate your home and recommend the best HVAC system for your needs. Keep in mind that we offer HVAC maintenance in Jacksonville FL to help keep your new system in excellent condition for many years to come.

When you begin noticing signs that it’s time to upgrade your AC or a poor energy assessment reading, our HVAC experts can provide dependable A/C unit installation. When you’re looking for HVAC maintenance near me, A/C Designs can help. Request an appointment with A/C Designs for your HVAC system upgrade today.

Tags: A/C Designs, A/C Upgrade, ac company jacksonville, AC Maintenance, AC Service
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Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Tips for Spring

Thursday, April 15th, 2021

Keeping your HVAC system up and running properly requires seasonal maintenance. HVAC maintenance plays an important role in making sure your system runs efficiently and improves your indoor air quality. Follow these seasonal HVAC maintenance tips to ensure your home system is performing at its best.

Replace Your Filter

Your HVAC system’s removable air filter traps pollen and other particles, keeping them out of your home. Tree pollen and other debris can cover these filters during spring, leading to clogged and dirty filters. A dirty filter can lead to damage as your HVAC system attempts to run improperly.

In severe cases, your HVAC system could break down. Keep in mind that lowered efficiency also results in higher energy bills. You should replace your filter as part of your HVAC maintenance routine during spring.

Test and Clean Your Cooling Equipment

Testing your equipment helps determine if it is running efficiently. Turn your HVAC system on and leave it running for a few minutes. This test allows you to determine if your air conditioning is working properly.

You should run your HVAC equipment through one standard cycle to ensure that it’s producing cool air throughout your home. A professional HVAC technician can perform a more in-depth test on your system to determine its efficiency.

When it comes to HVAC cleaning, you can do some of these tasks on your own. Wipe down return registers and supply vents to remove dust and other debris. During a professional HVAC maintenance visit, a technician can clean the internal components of your system, such as the blower fans. Clean components can help your HVAC system run properly.

Preventative Maintenance

Performing preventative maintenance on your HVAC system is a great practice to ensure it operates at its highest efficiency. In addition to the tasks you can do at home, you should schedule an appointment for professional maintenance. Technicians will check the components in your HVAC system to make sure they’re in good condition.

If needed, technicians can repair minor problems and make adjustments to keep your system working properly. They can also inspect your air ducts to check for dents, debris, and other problems that could affect airflow. During maintenance appointments, technicians also look for signs of bigger problems with your HVAC system that require prompt repairs.

These seasonal HVAC maintenance tips can help you enjoy dependable cooling throughout the hot spring and summer months. While you can do some of these tasks yourself, it’s necessary to have a professional technician perform preventative maintenance. When searching for “HVAC maintenance near me,” choose A/C Designs for your preventative maintenance needs. Request an appointment with A/C Designs for your annual HVAC service maintenance appointment.

Tags: A/C Designs, ac company jacksonville, AC Installation, ac issues, AC Maintenance, air conditioner tips
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How to Get Rid of HVAC Odors

Friday, March 19th, 2021

HVAC systems usually don’t produce strong or strange odors when they’re running properly. If you’re worried about an HVAC odor coming from your system, it’s always a good idea to get professional help identifying the source and fixing it. Keep the following solutions in mind to eliminate common HVAC odors and improve your indoor air quality.

Easily Fixed Odors

Some odors coming from HVAC systems can be easily found and fixed.

A mildew smell could be coming from your HVAC unit if excess water has built up due to poor drainage. This musty or moldy odor occurs when moisture accumulates in your system. Change your filter first, but don’t hesitate to call A/C Designs if this smell remains. Our HVAC technicians can professionally clean your unit to get rid of this odor.

A rotting garbage odor in your HVAC system could be coming from a dead bird or rodent that is trapped inside it. Give us a call as soon as possible, and our HVAC technicians will gladly remove the source of the odor.

An old cigarette smoke odor can result from a smoker being or living in the house. The fumes from the smoke can linger on the evaporator coil. Cleaning this section of your HVAC system can eliminate this smell.

Oil odors typically come from oil leaks. An HVAC technician might need to tighten a fitting in the filter, tank, or oil line to fix the leak. If there is no oil leak, have an HVAC technician check your HVAC system. This oil odor might come from an oil burner that is not working properly. If you also notice unusual noises, smoke, or soot, call an HVAC technician immediately.

Harmful Odors

Some HVAC system odors can be dangerous. A rotten egg smell could indicate a gas leak close to your air ducts. In this case, you should leave your house right away and call the local gas company before calling an HVAC technician.

A sewage smell can occur if you have a sewer line close to your ductwork that has backed up. If this happens, you should call a plumber or HVAC technician right away. This sewage smell comes from methane. This gas can fill your home and be highly dangerous.

A burning smell could indicate a mechanical problem with the fan in your HVAC unit. Shut off your HVAC system, and check for burning odors close to your equipment. Call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to handle burning smells.

Eliminate HVAC Odors

You can remove HVAC odor problems by checking for mildew, mold, dead animals, and other possible sources of HVAC smells regularly. Other ways to eliminate these odors include cleaning your evaporator coils, improving your ventilation, replacing your air filter, and scheduling HVAC maintenance annually. HVAC technicians can remove air duct odors, check for faulty wiring, and tighten belts or other parts as needed.

Most of the unusual odors that come from HVAC units can be solved easily, but some can be hazardous. Contact the team at A/C Designs to schedule an appointment for your HVAC maintenance needs.

Tags: A/C Designs, harmful odors, HVAC Maintenance, hvac odors, hvac system
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How Your HVAC Unit Can Affect Your Health

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

With heightened stress levels, lower immune systems, and an international pandemic, it’s more important than ever to stay healthy. Your HVAC system plays a major role in determining your indoor air quality (IAQ) and therefore, your HVAC and health have an interesting relationship. Since this is the air you’re inhaling all day, you should take steps to ensure a healthy home environment.

Unclean air raises your risk of getting sick. If you start to notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to check your air quality. An HVAC contractor in Jacksonville, Florida can help you boost IAQ and maintain a healthy home at all times.

At A/C Designs, we offer electronic air cleaners and air purifiers to reduce germs, allergens, and other harmful particles in your home. We also have other air quality solutions available, including UV germicidal lights and air duct cleaning. Our technicians can help you determine the right solutions for better air quality.

Asthma or Allergies

If you’ve been experiencing bad asthma or allergy flare-ups, your air quality could be the reason. Dirty HVAC filters or ducts can cause dust and other asthma and allergy triggers to float throughout your home. Breathing these particles in can cause you to have asthma or allergy symptoms, such as trouble breathing, sneezing, or itchy, watery eyes.

Changing air filters is an important part of preventing this from happening. Make sure you check and replace your air filters every couple of months or more often if needed.

Decreased Cognitive Performance

HVAC and health issues can affect your ability to concentrate, make decisions, and use other cognitive skills. For example, being in a room that’s too hot can cause distractions while working or make it difficult for your kids to get their schoolwork done. Turn down your thermostat setting to ensure a more comfortable environment at home that’s not too warm during winter.

When it’s hot out, make sure your air conditioning is running properly. If your HVAC system doesn’t seem to be working right, schedule an AC repair service as soon as possible.

Headaches

Getting a headache from time to time isn’t unusual. However, if you’ve been experiencing frequent headaches, this could be due to your HVAC system. Dusty or dirty air ducts can lower the air quality in your home, resulting in chronic headaches. Headache may also be caused by dirty air filters or rooms that are overly warm.

You should have HVAC technicians check your HVAC system, including your ductwork, to see if any cleaning or other maintenance is needed. This will help minimize your frequent headache episodes and improve your home’s overall comfort.

Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose your HVAC issues and get you started on the path to repair. Contact A/C Designs today for all of your HVAC repair needs in order to prioritize your health. Keep in mind that we also offer air conditioning installation in Jacksonville, FL if you need to replace or upgrade your HVAC system.

Tags: A/C Designs, covid-19, health, hvac and health, hvac system, hvac tips
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A/C Designs Gifts New A/C Unit to Jacksonville Military Family in Partnership with Lennar and Operation FINALLY HOME

Thursday, January 28th, 2021

At A/C Designs, we are committed to making a difference in the community. We started off the new year by contributing a new A/C unit to a local military family who received a brand new home by Lennar in partnership with the non-profit, Operation FINALLY HOME, at no cost.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Bradley Thomas and his family stepped foot inside their new home for the first time almost 10 years to the day from when Sgt. Thomas was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) while serving overseas. After years of physical and emotional hardship, he and his family are excited to start a new chapter in their dream home.

“This means opportunity for my family,” said Sgt. Thomas. “It means they’ll always have somewhere to call home. No matter what happens in life, no matter what challenges they’re faced with, they’ll always have a home.”

The Thomas family couldn’t be more grateful for their new fully-furnished and mortgage-free Lennar home in the Amelia Walk community in Fernandina Beach.

The A/C Designs team is thrilled to do our part in giving back to the community however we can. We hope this new A/C unit keeps their new home warm, cozy, and cool for years to come.

Tags: A/C Designs, Jacksonville
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Save on HVAC Costs in 2021 with Preventative Maintenance

Friday, January 8th, 2021

Your HVAC system is crucial to keeping your Jacksonville home comfortable in all seasons. When you’re finalizing your 2021 budget, make sure it includes HVAC costs for preventative maintenance. This kind of maintenance can improve the average lifespan of HVAC systems. While these systems can last for over a decade, their lifespan can be cut short without proper care.

Keep these maintenance tips in mind to reduce HVAC costs in the new year.

Extend Your HVAC’s Lifespan

Your HVAC system will last longer with preventative maintenance. Include the cost of routine inspections in your budget for the new year. Schedule them through your local service team once or twice a year. Routine maintenance checks will keep you from having to invest thousands of dollars in a new system before it is absolutely necessary to do so.

Reduce Your Risk of Repairs

Your HVAC system can cost a significant amount of money if you need emergency repairs. While you might not be able to prevent repairs entirely, such as storm damage, you can lower the risk of needing them with preventative maintenance. This type of maintenance will ensure that your HVAC system runs properly. HVAC technicians can inspect your system and make minor repairs as needed, such as tightening loose components. Over time, this can lower the risk of your HVAC system breaking down.

Boost Indoor Air Quality

The condition of your HVAC system can have an impact on your budget when it comes to healthcare costs. Routine maintenance can help you improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) throughout the year. Healthier indoor air means a lower risk of catching colds and other viruses for you and your family. In turn, better air quality results in fewer healthcare costs for existing respiratory conditions that may worsen with poorer IAQ.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Having maintenance done on your HVAC system doesn’t only help it last longer. This kind of maintenance can also help your HVAC system run with better energy efficiency. This can help you save on your energy bills. Running your air conditioning in summer and your heating system in winter can add up throughout the year. With routine maintenance, you can ensure your HVAC system uses less energy all year round, resulting in reduced heating and cooling costs.

If you’re looking for more ways to save on HVAC costs in the new year, contact A/C Designs. We’re here to handle all of your HVAC needs, including preventative maintenance. We have years of experience providing heating and cooling services for homeowners in and around Jacksonville.

Tags: A/C Designs, air quality, Energy efficiency, hvac costs, hvac systems, jacksonville fl
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A/C Designs is Now Hiring

Tuesday, January 5th, 2021

A/C Designs is looking for experienced, dependable, and personable HVAC professionals to join their team. If you don’t have a lot of experience in the HVAC industry, company leaders say they are willing to provide training.

“Our company really looks for people with a strong work ethic, positive attitudes, that have career goals,” Riley Tennant with A/C Designs said. “A good driving record is very important with us. Mechanically inclined men and women who really want to strive and work and build a career.”

For more information, check out this interview with First Coast News.

Interested in a career with A/C Designs? Apply here!

Positions A/C Designs is currently hiring for:
Maintenance Technician, Service Technician, Service Helper, AOR Installer, New Construction Installer, New Construction Helper.

Tags: A/C Designs, ac company jacksonville, AC Service, Careers, Employment, HVAC Technicians, Jacksonville, Now Hiring, St. Augustine
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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.

Tags: A/C Designs, ac company jacksonville, ac issues, AC Maintenance, Heat Pump, Heat Pump Installation, heat pump problems, Heat Pump Repair, heat pump valve, Heat Pumps, heating and cooling, Heating Repair, heating system, HVAC Maintenance, Jacksonville, St. Augustine
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