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

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.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance, Air Conditioning | Comments Off on Air Conditioning Mistakes That Raise Your Bills

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.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance, Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How to Extend the Life of Your AC Unit

Celebrate HVAC Tech Day

Thursday, June 2nd, 2022

Since 2003, AC Designs has kept our Northeast Florida neighbors in their comfort zone with premier air conditioning and heating services. This is only possible thanks to our amazing team of experienced HVAC technicians. Join us in celebrating National HVAC Tech Day on June 22nd by thanking one of your favorite technicians and learning more about our dedicated team.

Why We Celebrate HVAC Tech Day

The Florida heat is a constant reminder of how important the invention of air conditioning was. Central heating and air conditioning were invented in the 1900s, but incredible advancements have been made in the decades since to improve home comfort. 

In 2016, National HVAC Tech Day was founded in an effort to recognize the crucial work of HVAC technicians. Without their expertise and dedication in our industry, our comfort zones would be compromised. 

When an AC Designs technician visits your home for a service call, you can count on them to improve your system’s performance and provide you with great advice to keep your system running smoothly. Do you have a technician you’d like to celebrate today? Here are a couple of ways to show your appreciation:

  • Send your technician a “thank you” message
  • Leave a positive review for your favorite technician
  • Share a picture on social media with the hashtag #NationalHVACTechDay and tag AC Designs
  • Recommend your favorite technician to friends and family

Comfort Superstars 

You’re always in good hands when you book an appointment with a technician at AC Designs. We pride ourselves on working with the best NATE-certified technicians who have the skills, training, and experience necessary to keep you in your comfort zone. Learn more about a few of our comfort superstars.

Jacob Barbary

 

Jacob Barbary 

Get to know Jacob Barbary, one of our talented HVAC Technicians. For nearly two years, Jacob has worked diligently to ensure our customer’s HVAC units are running smoothly. Jacob stays in his Comfort Zone by spending time with his children. We appreciate your hard work, Jacob!

 

 

Have you had a service appointment with Jacob? Leave him a kind review here. 

 

Keuntay Goodman

 

Keuntay Goodman

Meet Keuntay Goodman, an HVAC Technician at AC Designs. For the past five months, Keuntay has enjoyed providing our customers with expert AC services. One of his favorite parts about working for AC Designs is meeting new people. When our customers are happy, Keuntay is happy. Keuntay stays in his Comfort Zone by playing video games. Thank you for your hard work, Keuntay! 

 

Have you had a service appointment with Keuntay? Leave him a kind review here. 

 

Robert Carter

 

Robert Carter

Robert Carter is a Senior Maintenance Technician at AC Designs. Robert has provided our customers with great maintenance experiences for the past two and a half years. He loves educating our customers on the best ways to care for their units. During his free time, Robert stays in his Comfort Zone by playing chess and taking nature walks. Thank you for your hard work, Robert!

 

 

Have you had a service appointment with Robert? Leave him a kind review here. 

Schedule an Appointment Today

At AC Designs, we appreciate the trust our customers place in us and the services we provide. Whether your AC unit needs repair or you want to amp up your indoor air quality protection, you can count on our AC technicians. Request an appointment with one of your favorite technicians so you can do you, comfortably this summer.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance | Comments Off on Celebrate HVAC Tech Day

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.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance, Air Conditioning | Comments Off on HVAC Tips and Tricks for New Homeowners

Summer AC Maintenance Tips

Wednesday, May 4th, 2022

Florida is famous for its long, hot, and humid summers, and your air conditioner will be working hard this season to keep your home cool. Being proactive about your summer AC maintenance ensures your unit is ready to operate smoothly and efficiently all season long. You can perform many important maintenance tasks on your own, keeping your unit functioning properly. Follow our actionable tips below to extend the lifespan of your AC unit, save money, and keep your family comfortable on even the most scorching days.

Cleaning Your Condenser Unit

As your AC system sits idle during the winter, debris such as dirt, dust, leaves, and twigs collect around the base of the condenser unit. The condenser unit is a large fan in a metal box that is usually located outdoors. This accumulation of debris can damage the unit and obstruct airflow, which forces the system to run harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature. It also increases energy consumption by up to 30%. 

Cleaning the condenser unit is crucial for keeping your cooling system in optimal condition. Here’s how to clean it yourself, step-by-step. If you prefer, you can have a professional HVAC technician perform this important maintenance step instead. It comes included in AC Design’s Maintenance Program as well.

  1. Before getting started, turn off the circuit breaker that supplies electricity to the unit. You will also see a weatherproof disconnect box located around the unit that contains a lever, fuses, or a circuit breaker. Turn this off, as well.
  2. Begin by removing all debris from the exterior with a low-pressure water hose. 
  3. Next, remove the side and top panels of the unit to access the inside of the condenser. 
  4. Use a refrigerator coil brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently clean the condenser coils and fins from the outside. Then, vacuum them from the inside. 
  5. Wipe off the blower’s fan blades with a clean rag. 
  6. Remove any excess water inside the unit, then reassemble.

DIY Unit Upkeep and Home Tips

Along with cleaning the condenser unit before turning on your AC, you can also take other simple steps to ensure your unit continues running safely and smoothly throughout the year.

  • Clean or replace the furnace or air-handler filters whenever they look dusty, or at least once per month during the summer. These air filters are crucial for maintaining proper indoor air quality. Dirty filters constrict airflow, reduce the efficiency of your unit, recirculate dust into your home, and can cause the condenser coils to malfunction.
  • Open the supply vents in every room, clean them, and remove any obstructions, such as furniture, drapes, or rugs. Keeping the vents closed or allowing them to become obstructed creates unnecessary pressure on the ductwork. This forces the air handler to work harder and can waste energy by leaking cool air into the attic or basement.
  • Check refrigerant levels. The outside condenser unit should have two copper pipes, the largest of which is covered in insulation. If this pipe does not feel cold to the touch or sweat condensation when the unit runs, this indicates it is running low on coolant. Only a trained HVAC technician should replace the refrigerant. 
  • Eliminate airflow leaks. Check the AC ducts, connectors, and blower components for loose or damaged areas and have any issues addressed by an HVAC technician. Close your fireplace damper. Look for any gaps in walls, window frames, doorways, and attic entryways, then seal them with insulation, caulking, or rubber flaps.

Join a Professional HVAC Maintenance Program

Although you can perform many routine tasks yourself, it’s better to leave major AC maintenance and repairs to the professionals. Having an experienced AC company in Jacksonville, FL perform bi-annual professional maintenance on your system is crucial for ensuring your air conditioning unit operates at peak efficiency. 

At AC Designs, we offer a Preferred Customer Maintenance Program to take care of all your maintenance and repair needs. It includes:

  • Two pre-scheduled system checks each year.
  • Same-day HVAC services.
  • One-day replacement on most parts and units.
  • 24-hour emergency services.
  • Discounts on diagnostic fees and AC repair. 

Our AC company helps customers across St. Augustine, FL, and Jacksonville, FL. Our HVAC techs will thoroughly inspect your unit, test all components to ensure they are functioning properly, and repair any potential issues. 

By cleaning and maintaining your AC unit and having it regularly serviced by an HVAC technician, you can approach the summer months with confidence and peace of mind. Contact AC Designs today to make an appointment with our expert team.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance | Comments Off on Summer AC Maintenance Tips

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.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance, Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How to Fix Common AC Problems

What to Look for in an AC Maintenance Plan

Monday, February 7th, 2022

Your AC unit and annual AC maintenance can come with a high price tag without a plan in place. When you sign up for an AC maintenance plan, you end up saving more money with regularly scheduled maintenance to keep your HVAC system in top condition.

AC companies in Jacksonville, FL offer many maintenance plans with different perks. Before making a commitment, customers must know what to look for. That way, they can purchase a plan that will keep their unit running efficiently, save them money on utility bills and maintenance, and improve their indoor air quality.

Pre-Scheduled Maintenance Checkups

Schedule your AC maintenance checks in advance with AC Designs’ maintenance program. Our preferred customer maintenance program comes with two pre-scheduled system checks per year, saving you time and money. Choose the days and times throughout the year that work best for you. Rest assured knowing that any issues with your HVAC system will be addressed and resolved during these check-ups.

When looking into AC maintenance programs, make sure that the checkups include these crucial aspects: unit inspections, air filter changes, thermostat checks and repairs, duct and airway checks, lubrication and refrigerant checks, and air quality inspections.

Regular HVAC maintenance is the key to ensuring your unit runs efficiently and safely while keeping your family in their comfort zone.

Professionally Trained HVAC Technicians

Select a maintenance program from a company that employs professionally trained and certified HVAC technicians. A company with highly-skilled technicians is more likely to perform exceptional AC maintenance on your unit. They have the knowledge to inspect your unit for any mechanical problems and make proper recommendations or repairs when necessary.

At AC Designs, our NATE-certified technicians have all the talent, training, and experience to ensure that your home or commercial building is as comfortable as possible.

Our team always puts you and your home’s comfort first, which is why our customers voted us the #1 Heating & Air Conditioning company in Jacksonville. Our customers are always confident in the skilled service they receive, knowing they are working with the best AC company in Jacksonville, FL.

Attentive Service

When investing in a quality maintenance program, you should expect remarkable service. With AC Designs maintenance program, you receive additional benefits such as same-day service, one-day replacement on parts and units, 24-hour emergency service, and more.

Our HVAC technicians will prioritize your AC unit with expert maintenance and repair service available to you as soon as you need it.

Performing annual AC maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your HVAC system. Luckily, AC maintenance plans exist to make checkups easier to schedule and more affordable overall.

At AC Designs, we prioritize our customers and their needs. Our skilled HVAC technicians will always put you first. Stay in your comfort zone all year long when you join AC Designs’ Preferred Customer Maintenance Program today.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance | Comments Off on What to Look for in an AC Maintenance Plan

Save on HVAC Costs in 2022 With Preventative Maintenance

Monday, January 17th, 2022

Maintaining your air conditioning and heating unit is similar to taking care of your car. It needs proper attention to function well and lengthens its lifespan. Homeowners tend to neglect their AC units which causes them to overspend when it comes to HVAC maintenance work and electric costs. However, investing in preventative AC maintenance has many benefits that include less expensive repairs and a lower electric bill. Scheduling preventative AC maintenance will help you save on your HVAC costs and energy bills in 2022. Here’s how:

Flow More Cash, Not Just Air With Preventative Maintenance

Many of those who invest in an HVAC system for a new home fail to properly maintain the HVAC system over time. This reduces system capacity and increases energy usage, eventually leading to costly and unnecessary repairs.

An HVAC system is similar to a car. When you ignore your vehicle’s check engine or TPMS light, chances are you will drive into some problems. Your AC unit, too, needs proper attention and maintenance in order to stay efficient and keep the home comfortable year-round.

When your AC unit works harder than normal to keep your home at the desired temperature, more energy is used and in turn, you receive a higher monthly bill. Therefore, there are lots of benefits to preventative maintenance.

When you schedule maintenance appointments for your AC unit, you will lengthen your unit’s lifespan, reduce overall repairs, improve energy efficiency and in turn, lower your monthly energy bill.

Additional Tips for Saving Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC maintenance in Florida can be expensive. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell how much to budget for repairs. Luckily, there are certain steps you can take to keep overall HVAC costs low.

First, change your air filters as often as needed to maintain quality HVAC efficiency. Next, check on your outdoor unit and remove any debris or weeds from around it. Additionally, you should consider sealing your home’s doors and windows to prevent drafts from outside. These whisks of air can make it seem chillier or warmer inside which causes you to use your HVAC more, driving up energy costs.

Another option is installing a programmable thermostat that can decrease the amount of energy your HVAC system uses when you are not home. With a thermostat like this, you can automatically set certain temperatures for certain times of day which will reduce your bill in the long run.

Using curtains can also help keep your home cooler so you don’t have to use your HVAC system as often. They are especially useful during the warmer months when the sun shines brightly and for longer periods of time.

Remember, if your unit is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it with a new unit. An old unit will run inefficiently and require more repairs, causing your HVAC costs to skyrocket. Schedule an appointment with an AC technician to determine if a new unit is needed.

Join AC Designs’ Maintenance Plan and Save

When you sign up for AC Design’s maintenance program, you are automatically locked into savings on your HVAC unit. You are guaranteed two pre-scheduled system checks per year, same-day service, one-day replacement on most parts and units, and more. By using our preventative maintenance program, you can expect lower utility bills, improved HVAC unit reliability, and an extended lifespan of your AC unit.

Don’t forget that with our maintenance program comes big maintenance savings. You will receive ½ off diagnostic fees and 20% off on repairs.

Get more out of your AC unit when you follow these tips for maintenance savings. Schedule a maintenance appointment with AC Designs, your choice AC company in Jacksonville, FL to keep your HVAC unit in tip-top shape. We’ll help you stay in your comfort zone all year long.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance | Comments Off on Save on HVAC Costs in 2022 With Preventative Maintenance

What Happens During AC Maintenance?

Monday, November 15th, 2021

Over the last two years, the home has become an especially popular place to be. But are you taking proper care of it? When was the last time you had an AC unit maintenance check? If you don’t schedule annual maintenance for your home’s AC unit, you are putting your overall well-being at risk.

Preventative AC maintenance goes a long way in fostering a healthy living environment for you and your loved ones. Here’s how AC maintenance appointments will help you stay in your comfort zone.

Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

AC maintenance benefits include less money spent, more love for the environment, and a greater focus on your health. How much money you will save depends on how well you take care of your AC. The easiest way to save money on your air conditioning unit is by identifying and preventing issues before they arise.

During your AC maintenance appointment, an experienced HVAC tech can pinpoint any issues they see with your unit. Then they can address any problems before they become major issues. They may also recommend other money-saving improvements for your unit based on your AC habits, where you live, and the time of year.

When an AC unit is given proper preventative attention, it consumes less fuel and becomes more energy efficient. Your unit’s efficiency may also be affected by dirty air filters, dirty condenser coils, inadequate ventilation, and more. Routine maintenance can catch these smaller issues and correct them to help improve your unit’s efficiency.

The air you breathe every day is crucial to your overall health. AC Designs’ indoor air quality specialists can correct any poor air quality issues within your unit. They can also make recommendations for air filters or air quality monitors to keep track of the pollutants in your home.

Finally, when your AC unit is maintained properly, you’ll get to enjoy it for many more years to come. When you treat it well, it experiences less wear and tear which contributes to a longer lifespan.

What to Expect From Your Maintenance Appointment

During your maintenance appointment, the HVAC technician will inspect your unit to ensure it is running efficiently. They may check and test components such as the blower motor, thermostat, condenser coil, fan blades, and capacitors.

They should also check your air filter and clean or change it if necessary to improve your indoor air quality. Additionally, you can expect them to inspect the safety components within your unit to ensure they are operating properly.

Make sure your HVAC technician checks your refrigerant level. This is a crucial step in your maintenance appointment. A loss of refrigerant means that a leak may have occurred. If possible, your technician should locate and repair the leak during your appointment.

Consider Joining a Maintenance Program

AC maintenance benefits ensure that you can stay in your comfort zone all year long. It is crucial to give your AC unit proper attention and maintenance to keep your home healthy and energy-efficient. Joining a preventative maintenance program can take the stress off of you when it comes to caring for your HVAC unit. At AC Designs, our Preferred Customer Maintenance Program includes the following:

  • Two pre-scheduled system checks per year, same day service, one-day replacement on parts and units (except special orders), 24-hour emergency service
  • You can enjoy lower utility bills, improved reliability, extended life, fewer repairs, improved capacity, improved safety
  • ½ off diagnostic fee, 20% discount on repairs, professionally trained technicians

Don’t wait to claim all of the positive AC maintenance benefits. They are all just one phone call away. Schedule your preventative maintenance appointment with A/C Designs, a trusted HVAC company in Jacksonville, FL, today.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in AC Maintenance | Comments Off on What Happens During AC Maintenance?