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

Water Dripping From AC Vent: Causes and Solutions

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024
why is water dripping from my ac unit

Diagnose Water Dripping From AC Vent With AC Designs
It’s normal to see your vehicle’s AC dripping water after it’s been parked for a few minutes, but the same can’t be said about your home’s air vents. Understanding why water dripping from AC vents is a cause for concern is crucial, and our team at AC Designs is here to help you address this issue effectively. Here are some of the top reasons behind leaky AC vents:

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Summer Survival Guide for Your HVAC System

Friday, May 19th, 2023

Warm summer months in Florida can wreak havoc on your home’s air conditioning unit, but with the right AC unit maintenance and care, you can keep it running efficiently throughout the season. In this summer survival guide, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and resources to help you maintain your HVAC system and ensure a comfortable and cool home all summer long.

Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips

Being proactive and scheduling HVAC unit maintenance tune-ups is a crucial step in preparing your unit for the summer. At AC Designs, our professional HVAC company can perform a comprehensive inspection and cleaning while checking for any issues to ensure optimal performance.

During your maintenance visit, you can expect services such as checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting electrical connections, and lubricating moving parts. These steps will help your unit operate efficiently, reduce energy consumption, and extend its lifespan.

Remember to change your air filters regularly as old filters can make your unit work harder, reduce airflow, and lead to poor indoor air quality. By keeping your filters clean, you ensure that your system operates smoothly and efficiently without added strain during the summer months.

When you join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club, you’ll gain exclusive access to our maintenance program that offers benefits like priority service, discounts on repairs, and regular check-ups to keep your HVAC system in top condition.

Running Your AC Unit Efficiently During Summer

Keeping your costs low and your home comfortable depends on the way you run your system during the summer. Make sure to set your thermostat to an appropriate temperature throughout the warm season, aiming for a balance between comfort and energy savings. 

Consider investing in a programmable thermostat that allows you to schedule temperature adjustments throughout the day based on your routine. Frequent temperature fluctuations can overwork your unit, so avoid drastic changes and find a comfortable temperature to maintain consistently.

You should also weatherize your doors and windows to reduce unit strain. Seal any gaps or cracks, add weatherstripping, and consider using insulated curtains or blinds. Keeping doors and windows closed while the AC is running prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.

Maintaining a clean home also helps your AC system. Vacuum and dust regularly to reduce the presence of allergens and dust particles in the air. A cleaner home means cleaner air circulating through your HVAC system.

Lastly, be sure to provide shade over your outdoor condenser unit. Direct sunlight can increase the workload on the system, reducing its efficiency. You can create shade by installing an awning, large plants, or other forms of structures.

Consider Upgrading Your AC Unit 

Sometimes, the best decision for your summer comfort is to upgrade your AC unit. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for a home cooling upgrade:

Age

If your unit is over 10 years old, it may be less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Upgrading to a newer model can provide improved energy efficiency and better cooling performance.

Frequent Repairs

If you find yourself calling for repairs more often than before, it could be a sign that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Invest in a new unit to save you from the hassle and expenses of constant repairs.

High Utility Bills

If your energy bills have been abnormally high despite no significant changes in usage, it could be a sign that your AC unit is no longer operating efficiently. Upgrade to a more energy-efficient model to save on your monthly utility costs.

Inadequate Cooling

If your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature or if certain rooms feel consistently warmer than others, your AC unit may be struggling to cool your space effectively. Upgrade to a more powerful and advanced system to ensure consistent and comfortable cooling throughout your home.

Summer AC Maintenance in Jacksonville, FL

Stay cool and comfortable this summer by taking care of your HVAC system and following these summer air conditioning tips. Schedule your HVAC summer maintenance appointment with AC Designs today and enjoy a worry-free season in the sun.

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Trick or Treat: Should You Repair or Replace Your AC Unit?

Friday, October 7th, 2022

What’s scarier than a broken air conditioning or heating unit? The unexpected bills that come with it! Luckily, there’s nothing to fear with AC Designs on your side. We’ll help you discover whether your unit’s spooky sound or ghastly odor requires repair or replacement.   

Common Signs Your AC Needs Repair

Given Florida’s extreme heat during the majority of the year, it is likely that you may encounter the need for AC repair occasionally. There are many common problems that can be solved easily by scheduling a repair service with a trusted HVAC company in Jacksonville, Florida. 

Strange noises coming from your AC unit can often be repaired. If you notice a rattling noise coming from your outdoor unit, there is likely a twig or small branch obstructing the fan’s blades. Make sure your unit is turned off, and then try to remove any blockages from your outdoor unit. 

A grinding noise is a more serious problem that may be caused by issues with your blower fan belt, motor lubrication, or compressor. We recommend calling a certified HVAC tech to inspect your unit and repair the source of this problem.

If your unit is cycling on and off constantly, it may be low on refrigerant, your thermostat may be malfunctioning, or the coils within your unit may be icy or frozen. A unit that refuses to turn on may be due to electrical problems, an overheated compressor, or a blown breaker. These are repairable problems, but we recommend scheduling regular maintenance to avoid these issues in the future. 

The most common repairable AC problems include:

  • Clogged or dirty air filters
  • Poorly-located thermostats
  • Coolant leaks
  • Blown breakers or fuses
  • Clogged drain lines
  • Frozen condenser coils
  • Overheated compressors

Scheduling service with AC Designs can solve all of your AC repair needs. However, the best way to avoid unwarranted repairs is by performing routine HVAC maintenance. A preventative maintenance appointment is a perfect chance for our technicians to locate the source of any issues in their early stages and mitigate them before they turn into a problem later on.

How to Know Your AC Needs to be Replaced

An AC replacement may seem like a trick, but it’s often necessary to avoid further problems and monetary loss. If you have experienced temperature inconsistencies in your home, it’s likely your unit no longer has the power to cool your home efficiently. Minor repairs, like cleaning air filters and replacing thermostats, may temporarily solve this problem. However, as your unit continues to age, it’s a good idea to consider an upgrade.

The most common reason for an AC replacement is old age. Generally speaking, an AC unit approaching the 10-year mark is nearly due for replacement. When deciding between a repair or replacement for larger issues, consider doing a cost analysis. Here’s how:

  1. Take your estimated cost for repair and multiply it by your system’s age.
  2. If this number is greater than $5,000, replacement is usually a better economical choice in the long run.

AC replacements are an expensive investment, but can ultimately save you money down the line. A new unit that is properly maintained will require less frequent repairs and will be more energy efficient. Another advantage of installing a new unit is being able to enjoy improved indoor air quality in your home.

Finding a Trusted HVAC Company in Jacksonville FL

A well-maintained HVAC unit can last for years beyond its expected lifespan. This is why it’s important for homeowners in Northeast Florida to work with a trusted HVAC company for AC repairs and replacements. 

Joining an AC maintenance program is one of the best ways to save money on AC-related bills, extend the life of your unit, and breathe healthier air. As a member of AC Designs’ Preferred Customer Maintenance Program, you’ll receive:

  • 2 pre-scheduled system checks per year
  • Discounts on repairs and diagnostics
  • Priority scheduling
  • After-hours emergency service
  • And more!

Whether you’re in the market for a new unit or in need of repair services, AC Designs is here to help get you back to your comfort zone. Are you experiencing an HVAC issue we didn’t mention? Download our free Repair or Replacement guide for additional information. 

Let us help you avoid any tricks this season. Book an appointment today with Jacksonville’s best family-owned and operated AC company.

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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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What’s That Spooky Noise Coming From My A/C?

Thursday, October 22nd, 2020


Halloween is here, and with all the scary movies you’ve probably been watching, you might be a little spooked by the strange sounds coming from your air conditioning. Thankfully, there are no ghosts lurking in your a/c. Learn more about common noises in your a/c, what causes them, and how to fix them.

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3 Reasons to Replace Indoor & Outdoor HVAC Units Together

Tuesday, September 15th, 2020


While it might seem like you can replace one unit and leave the other in place, this usually isn’t recommended. Take a look at the three reasons why you should replace your indoor and outdoor units at the same time to ensure your Jacksonville home stays comfortable all year long.

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GUIDE: Should You Repair or Replace Your A/C?

Thursday, July 30th, 2020

Should you repair or replace your a/c unit? This is a common question among those of us surviving this Florida heat, and knowing the answer could save you a lot of money. Having an air conditioner that isn’t working can be frustrating, however, the cause is usually one of a few components. That’s why we have created this simple questionnaire to help you decide whether to repair or replace your unit.

To better understand your HVAC system and diagnosing your a/c issue, click the link below and download your FREE Repair or Replace Guide.

Click to Download (opens in new window)

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3 Common A/C Problems and How to Fix Them

Friday, February 14th, 2020

While homeowners in some parts of the country have a long “off-season” to have their a/c repaired or replaced, most Florida residents use their a/c for a significant portion of the year. Because of this, it’s important to diagnose and repair any issues quickly, before they begin to have a serious impact on your unit and home comfort. Take a look at three of the most common a/c problems and how you can fix them.

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3 of the Spookiest A/C Problems & How You Can Solve Them

Monday, October 21st, 2019

Is your home haunted? Or is it just your a/c? We’re here to debunk three of the most common misconceptions your home experiences during this spooky fall season. 

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