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We’ll regularly post energy saving tips, how-to’s on troubleshooting your systems, and breakdowns on even the most complex industry related terms and concepts.
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When the air in your home is too humid, you usually just turn down the settings on the air conditioner. But do air conditioners dehumidify effectively? Air conditioning systems help to dehumidify because the refrigeration process naturally gets rid of some of the moisture in the air.
However, is this all you need to get rid of the moisture in your home that’s often such a drag on your comfort? Is there a better solution? We think there is. Check out our guide to find out more!
Yes, an air conditioner does dehumidify your home. Condensation forms on a coil within the indoor unit as the AC system runs, as moisture from the air condenses and drips to a drainage system beneath it.
However, it’s certainly not the most cost-effective way to go about dehumidifying. You spend a lot of money to both cool your home and bring down moisture levels to an acceptable level. Even though the temperature is just fine, you have to keep lowering the temperature to feel comfortable, which raises your bills.
While both dehumidifiers and air conditioners can reduce humidity levels in the home, they do so in different ways. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Dehumidifiers are designed to pull moisture from the air, while air conditioners focus mainly on cooling. Air conditioners do remove some moisture, but it’s not their main job.
Dehumidifiers are usually more efficient for dehumidifying since that’s what they’re built for. Air conditioners can use more energy since they cool as well as dehumidify.
Dehumidifiers can tackle moisture issues throughout the house, while air conditioners usually target specific rooms.
Dehumidifiers are generally easier to install and maintain. They can be placed strategically for the best effect. Both need regular cleaning and care.
Dehumidifiers may have a lower initial cost, but consider the overall expenses of operation and maintenance. Depending on your climate and needs, one may be more cost-effective in the long run.
A dehumidifier will cost you, but it’s a worthy investment. You’ll feel more comfortable without a major increase in your monthly bills for years to come. A dehumidifier works similarly to an air conditioner, collecting condensation as warm humid air blows over it. However, it won’t use as much energy as a central air conditioner does.
You will, however, need an expert to install your whole-home dehumidifier. An HVAC specialist can see that it is fitted into place and that it doesn’t interfere with the air conditioner, but rather works with it to keep you comfortable.
Looking to dehumidify your Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville, or St. Augustine home? Contact AC Designs today for expert dehumidifier installation. We will deliver above your expectations so you can experience the comfort you deserve all year long.
While we often focus on outdoor air pollution, it’s equally important to consider the air quality inside our homes. Poor indoor air quality can lead to various respiratory problems and allergies, so taking proactive steps to improve the air you breathe is crucial. Learn the signs of poor air quality and the importance of indoor air quality services to enhance the air in your home.
Indoor air quality directly impacts your family’s health and comfort; many respiratory problems are linked to air pollution inside homes. Unfortunately, numerous households fall short when it comes to maintaining good air quality.
Luckily, improving your indoor air quality is made easy with the help of our experienced technicians at AC Designs. When you join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club, you’ll receive priority scheduling and replacement to ensure your system keeps the air within your home clean and safe to breathe.
Recognizing the signs of poor indoor air quality is essential for addressing potential issues early on. Here are some common indicators:
Improving indoor air quality doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Thankfully, you can take several simple steps to enhance your home’s air quality. Here are some of our recommended solutions:
Certain houseplants, like Aloe, English Ivy, Rubber Tree, Snake Plant, and Bamboo Palm, can act as natural air purifiers in your home by removing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Remember to consider your pets and what plants may be toxic to them before choosing indoor greenery.
Proper ventilation is one of the most important ways to maintain good indoor air quality. Opening windows regularly allows fresh outdoor air to enter your home while polluted indoor air can escape.
The air filters in your HVAC system play an essential role in trapping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles. Over time, these filters can become clogged, impacting the system’s efficiency and allowing more pollutants to circulate in your home. When you join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club, we’ll replace your air filters year-round to keep your unit running smoothly.
High humidity levels can create an environment conducive to mold growth and other allergens. Dehumidifiers help reduce excess moisture, preventing the growth and spreading of dust mites, mold spores, and other allergens.
Regular vacuuming removes dirt, dust, pet dander, and other allergens from carpets and upholstery. Avoid dust accumulation and keep your home clean by vacuuming furniture and carpets often.
Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can accumulate in your home’s air ducts. At AC Designs, our professional air duct cleaning services can help maintain a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Pets can contribute to indoor air pollution by shedding dander and fur. Regular pet grooming helps reduce allergens in the air. Additionally, cleaning ceiling fans prevents the circulation of dust and debris, promoting cleaner air.
Whole home air purifiers work to remove harmful particles in the air to reduce exposure to mold, dust, or even asbestos in older homes. Installing one with your cooling system can extend the life of your air filters and reduce your need for AC maintenance.
You can create a healthier living space by being aware of the signs of poor air quality and implementing these simple solutions. Take action today and prioritize the air you breathe—schedule an indoor air quality services appointment with AC Designs and join the Comfort Zone Club to make the first step toward cleaner air.
Poor indoor air quality can have serious consequences on your health and well-being, leading to a variety of illnesses for you and your loved ones. Luckily, with the REME-HALO® air purifier, maintaining clean indoor air quality becomes hassle-free.
At AC Designs, we recognize the important role that clean air plays in keeping your family healthy and safe. We’re here to teach you why investing in this innovative air purifier is a smart choice for your indoor space and all the benefits you can expect.
Installed above your unit’s air handler cabinet, the purifier utilizes two different types of advanced technology to purify the air in your home or office. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect:
Did you know that the air indoors can be more polluted than the air outdoors? Poor indoor air quality can worsen a variety of health issues, including respiratory problems like asthma, allergies, and even contribute to the spread of illnesses such as the common cold and flu.
With most people spending over 90% of their time indoors, investing in solutions like the REME-HALO® air purifier is essential to stay comfortable and healthy. The system’s cutting-edge technology ensures that the air circulating throughout your home is clean and free of pollutants and harmful bacteria.
Using ionization technology, the purifier makes the dust, dander, and pollen molecules floating throughout your home become sticky and attach to one another, allowing them to be easily picked up by the system’s filters.
The purifier also generates low levels of hydrogen peroxide that circulates throughout your indoor space, eliminating bacteria, viruses, odors, and mold spores in both the air and on surfaces. It’s important to replace the purifier’s core every two years for optimal protection and performance.
Unlike traditional air purifiers that can be difficult to use and maintain, the REME-HALO® air purifier is designed with simplicity in mind. It seamlessly integrates into your central air vent system without the need for constant adjustments or relocation.
Another advantage of the REME HALO® air purifier is its easy maintenance. While some air purifier models require professional assistance for routine upkeep, this system eliminates the need for complicated maintenance, making it easier for you to keep your indoor air clean and fresh all year long.
Investing in clean air for your home is truly invaluable. While the REME HALO® air purifier might come with a slightly higher price tag than some other purification system options, the benefits it brings are well worth it.
Purchasing this air purifier is an investment in your health and comfort that pays off in the long run. The system is built to last, and its durable construction and high-performance design mean you can trust it to keep your indoor air clean and fresh for years to come.
With its advanced technology, user-friendly design, and long-term benefits, investing in the REME HALO® air purifier is a step towards creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for your home. Don’t settle for anything less than comfort in your Jacksonville, FL home – call AC Designs today!
Regular AC maintenance isn’t just about preventing issues; it can also enhance your unit’s energy efficiency and save you money on bills. At AC Designs, our experts are here to show you how to clean your AC unit inside and out and when it’s time to call in the experts.
One DIY step you can take to keep the inside of your AC unit clean is replacing its filters regularly. Dirty or clogged filters can significantly impede the airflow, reducing the system’s efficiency and causing it to work harder than necessary.
How To: Change Your Filter For Air Handler Cabinets With Screws
How to Change Your Filter For Air Handler Cabinets With Clips
How To Change a 5 Inch Filter On Your HVAC Unit
Another way homeowners can clean their units on their own is flushing the drainline. Over time, algae, mold, and debris can accumulate in the drainline, leading to clogs and potential water damage. Flushing regularly can help break down any buildup and maintain unobstructed drainage.
How To Clear Drain Line
Now that you know how to clean your AC unit inside, homeowners can also play a role in keeping the outside of their AC unit clean. First, ensure that your condenser unit isn’t surrounded by any overgrown bushes or vegetation. It needs ample space for proper airflow to facilitate efficient heat exchange.
Additionally, check the air handler, which is often located inside closets or garages. Ensure that it is not blocked by items stored in these spaces, as this could restrict airflow and hinder your unit’s performance.
While some routine maintenance tasks can be done on your own, most aspects of upkeep are best left to the HVAC professionals. When you join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club, our expert technicians will handle these key tasks for you:
The evaporator coil is integral to the cooling process, and cleaning it requires precision and knowledge to avoid damage. Our experts at AC Designs are equipped to delicately clean the evaporator coil to ensure optimal performance.
A clogged evaporator drain can lead to issues like water damage and reduced efficiency. We have the tools and expertise to safely and effectively clear the evaporator drain to prevent potential complications.
The blower filter is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. Our HVAC technicians are trained to assess the type of filter needed and ensure its proper installation to maximize the effectiveness of your AC unit.
Cleaning the condenser and compressor is a delicate task that requires specialized knowledge. Our experts use industry-approved methods to clean condenser fins, ensuring efficient heat transfer. Additionally, we inspect and maintain the compressor, a vital component for overall system performance.
At AC Designs, we’re equipped with a comprehensive set of skills and tools to not only conduct thorough inspections but also to make any necessary adjustments, ensuring that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operates at peak efficiency and reliability.
Knowing how to clean your AC unit inside and out and when it’s time to call in the professionals is crucial for it to work its best. Make an appointment with the experts at AC Designs today and join our maintenance program to keep you and your family comfortable all year long.
Does it feel like your HVAC system isn’t as cool as it used to be? Is it freezing up unexpectedly? These may be signs of a dirty evaporator coil. But don’t sweat it – the experts at AC Designs are here to help you keep your unit in top shape so you can get back to cool comfort.
If you find your AC unit suddenly freezing up, a dirty evaporator coil may be the culprit. Even in brand new systems, blocked airflow due to a lack of regular maintenance can lead to condensation buildup and eventual freezing.
Here’s how it happens: when the coil is covered in grime and debris, it can’t absorb heat properly, leading to the freezing of remaining moisture. This results in ice buildup on the coil, which not only affects the unit’s functionality but also poses the risk of potential damage.
Discovering a dirty evaporator coil in your AC can be concerning, and while simple tasks like replacing air filters and checking vents for any airflow blockages can improve efficiency, it’s important to leave this job to the professionals. Avoid using evaporator coil cleaner on your own and join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club for expert care and discounted diagnostic fees and repairs.
Our professionally trained technicians specialize in restoring optimal performance for your unit to keep your home comfortable. Comfort Zone Club members receive priority scheduling on maintenance appointments that include whatever your unit needs – from evaporator coil cleanings to vent inspections – to restore airflow and get your home back to comfort in no time.
Don’t let a frozen AC ruin your comfort – avoid future freeze-ups with regular maintenance from AC Designs. Our skilled HVAC technicians will keep your system debris-free, guaranteeing uninterrupted cooling when you need it. Schedule an appointment today for 24-hour air conditioning repair services to ensure you’re covered around the clock.
Sometimes, your HVAC system’s condensing unit coil (located outside) can become too cold, leading to ice/frost buildup. To ensure proper functioning, your unit will naturally enter a heat pump defrost cycle, a process designed to thaw the ice/frost on the coil.
Remember, frost on your unit’s coils is normal. If your unit enters the defrost cycle, it’s important NOT to disrupt – the process is typical and natural to your unit. Instead, allow the system to run and finish thawing. Here are some common signs that your system may be in the defrost cycle:
Watch our Guide to The Defrost Cycle video to see the process in action.
While the defrost cycle is normal and no cause for concern, the experts at AC Designs are always here to ensure your HVAC system is performing at its best. If you notice any irregularities or have concerns about your heat pump, our Jacksonville, FL team is ready to assist with professional heat pump repairs. Make an appointment today to stay in your comfort zone.
Nothing is more miserable than losing your AC when you need it most — besides the repair bill that comes with fixing it. Unfortunately, our extreme Florida weather is hard on AC units, which can lead to frequent breakdowns and high emergency air conditioning repair costs.
That’s why we created AC Design’s Comfort Zone Club to help you prevent the frustration that comes along with AC troubles and keep your home cool, no matter the season. Plus, our AC maintenance program will keep your energy bills manageable and maintain healthy indoor air quality. Whatever your AC needs, AC Designs is the AC company in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida you can trust.
Quick and efficient service is crucial, especially in Florida’s hot weather. Joining our AC maintenance program ensures you’re at the forefront for service and HVAC maintenance, avoiding long waits for parts when your unit malfunctions.
Rather than waiting for a breakdown during peak summer demand, our preferred maintenance members enjoy priority scheduling. This means you won’t be left without heating or cooling while others wait in line, ensuring your comfort all year round.
Your comfort is our top priority at AC Designs. As a member of the Comfort Zone Club, you benefit from after-hour emergency services, ensuring your needs are met promptly. Plus, our technicians will work around your busy schedule at times that work best for you.
Joining our AC maintenance program will not only save you money by preventing future repairs, you’ll also have access to special discounts and rates. AC Design’s Comfort Zone Club offers 50% off regular diagnostic fees and a 20% discount on repairs so you won’t have to worry about unexpected high repair bills or unit breakdowns.
When your unit receives consistent routine maintenance, you’ll deal with fewer emergency air conditioning repairs, improved capacity, and an overall extended lifetime for your unit. Our AC maintenance program offers two pre-scheduled system checks per year for members to prevent costly issues from going unnoticed.
Seasonal tune-ups, particularly after the winter months, are crucial to prevent major issues and boost energy efficiency. Our skilled technicians clear your unit of dust and debris during these check-ins, extending your system’s lifespan and preventing it from overworking and increasing your energy bill.
When your AC quits unexpectedly, our emergency air conditioning repair team is here to quickly address the issue. Trust our expert technicians to diagnose and fix the problem efficiently, ensuring your home remains cool and comfortable, even in the hottest Florida weather.
AC units in Florida generally last around 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Regular servicing and cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your unit in our challenging Florida climate.
If your new AC unit is freezing up, it could be due to issues with refrigerant levels or airflow. Contact your installer to diagnose and resolve the problem and avoid potential long-term damage.
To unfreeze your AC unit, turn it off and let the fan run. Check for clogged filters and ensure proper airflow. Regular maintenance, including filter checks, helps prevent future freezing issues.
At AC Designs, your comfort is our number one concern. Members of our Comfort Zone Club receive priority scheduling, priority replacement on parts and units, and after-hours emergency service.
Joining an AC maintenance program will save you money, time, and frustration in the long run. Contact the experts at AC Designs to sign up for our Comfort Zone Club today. We’re a top AC company in St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida with all of the support you need to keep your home comfortable year-round.
As winter sets in, the debate over the most efficient way to manage your home heating becomes a hot topic. Finding the right balance can keep you warm and help you avoid emergency AC repairs.
At AC Designs, our expert HVAC technicians are here to provide expert advice on how long your heat should be running, signs of an overworked AC unit, and the ideal thermostat settings.
During the winter months, finding a balance between heating your home efficiently and minimizing costs is essential. Turning off the heat when leaving the house may seem like a money-saving move, but the experts at AC Designs suggest a different approach.
Many people believe it takes more energy to reheat your home than to maintain a constant temperature. However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day can save you up to 15 percent on heating costs annually.
Lowering your thermostat rather than turning it off ensures that your HVAC system doesn’t have to work extra hard to restore the temperature. Make this a habit each day during the winter months before heading to work to protect your unit and your wallet.
Are you wondering if your HVAC unit is pulling more weight than it should? An overworked AC system can present itself in many ways, impacting your comfort and energy bills. Keep an eye out for these warning signs:
A sudden spike in your energy costs may indicate that your HVAC system is working harder than necessary.
If some rooms in your home are warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign of an overworked HVAC unit struggling to maintain consistent temperatures.
Regular breakdowns and the need for frequent emergency AC repairs are clear indicators of an HVAC system under stress.
An overworked system may struggle to filter and circulate the air in your home properly, leading to a dustier environment and the need for frequent indoor air quality services.
Unusual sounds coming from your HVAC unit can be a sign of mechanical strain and potential issues.
Water leaks around your HVAC unit or surrounding areas could result from an overworked system.
Choosing the right thermostat setting is the key to maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. During winter, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home.
Similar to leaving a door or window cracked on a cold day, setting your thermostat above 70°F can cause the heat in your home to escape quickly. You’ll find yourself using more energy to maintain the warmth you prefer.
If you’re used to a toastier home in the winter, try gradually nudging your thermostat down to 68°F. This allows your body and home to adapt, helping you find a sweet spot where you’re comfortable while maximizing energy efficiency.
At AC Designs, our preferred customer maintenance program is your ticket to worry-free HVAC and heat pump repair service. For a small annual fee, you’ll receive two unit check-ups, priority scheduling, and fast replacements.
Plus, members receive additional perks such as half-off diagnostic fees, a 20% discount on repairs, and the expertise of our professionally trained technicians. Sign up for our program today to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter.
Ensure your HVAC system is winter-ready, and take advantage of our comprehensive maintenance program to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained heating system. Schedule an appointment with AC Designs in St. Augustine or Jacksonville to stay warm and worry-free!
