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

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.

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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.

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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.

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How to Choose the Right AC Filter

Thursday, April 14th, 2022

We all know we can’t beat our Florida heat without a well-running AC system. But what most don’t know is how important AC filters are to their systems and their home comfort. Finding the right AC filter can have a huge impact on air quality and the efficiency of your unit. An optimal AC filter will trap particles that can be harmful to your health and even save you money on your electric bill. What should you look for in an AC filter? We’ve compiled some options and important factors to consider when finding the right AC filter for you. 

Types of AC Filters 

There’s a wide variety of AC filters on the market. The most popular options are fiberglass, pleated, and HEPA filters. Fiberglass filters are a top choice for homeowners because they are cost-efficient. Chances are that you’ve seen one—these sturdy filters are made up of fiberglass layers within a metal grate. They do a great job filtering out large particles and other contaminants. They’re also easy to find, install, and generally affordable. However, some homeowners don’t like that you have to replace them on a regular basis, usually around once per month. 

Pleated filters are considered higher quality than fiberglass filters, and typically cost more. This is because they last longer, and because they can capture finer particles in the air, including allergens. Most pleated filters need to be replaced around every 6 months.

If you’re looking for something more top-of-the-line to purify the air in your home, you can invest in a HEPA filter. These industrial-grade filters are rarely seen in homes but are important to those who are sensitive to lower air quality. At their peak performance, these filters capture anywhere between 97-99.97% of airborne particles. However, not all HEPA filters are “true” HEPA filters, therefore, potential buyers should read the manufacturer’s specifications to make sure they’re genuine. 

AC Filter Qualities

Selecting the best filter for you depends on a myriad of factors, including your preferences and lifestyle. For example, HEPA filters can be beneficial for those who suffer from severe allergies and asthma. Though HEPA filters are expensive, there are affordable AC filters specifically made to filter out pet hair and dander. Others can trap small particles and other asthma triggers. Finding a filter for your needs can significantly increase your quality of life. 

You should also ensure you’re using the correct size filter for your AC system. Using an incorrectly sized AC filter can reduce your unit’s efficiency and ability to filter airborne particles. Make sure to consult your HVAC manual or your AC maintenance technician when determining the correct AC filter size for your unit. 

MERV Rating

When choosing an AC filter, another factor to consider is its MERV rating. MERV ratings, or the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, rank filters on a scale of 1-16. This number indicates how well the filter is designed to hold contaminants under the least efficient conditions. 

MERV 1-4: On the lower end, fiberglass, disposable panel, and washable metal/synthetic filters tend to have a MERV rating around 1-4. Filters with this rating will clear out pollen, dust mites, and carpet fibers. 

MERV 5-8: Pleated filters rank between 5-8, which is close to the default choice for most systems (6-8). These do a better job of catching smaller particles and allergens to improve air quality.

MERV 9-16: More advanced, industrial filters, such as extended pleated and electronic filters, will rank between 9-12 and 13-16, respectively. Filters within an 8-13 range will filter out fumes, smoke and smog. 

It’s critical to avoid selecting an AC filter with a MERV rating that is too high for your unit. While you may want to buy one with a higher MERV rating and filtration efficiency, it can end up being an unnecessary and costly expense. For perspective, hospitals and operating rooms use MERV 14-20 filters because of their ability to filter bacteria and viruses. With this in mind, finding a balance between energy efficiency and filter efficiency is key.

Questions? Call AC Designs

There’s plenty to consider when choosing the right AC filter. Knowing what types of filters are available, their quality, and MERV rating is essential. But it all boils down to finding what best suits your home, budget, and individual needs. We pride ourselves on being Jacksonville’s premier AC and HVAC maintenance company, and we’re happy to work with you to determine which filters and systems work best for your home. Schedule an appointment with the indoor air quality specialists at AC Designs today.

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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.

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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.

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Why Should You Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance?

Thursday, September 9th, 2021

Are you tired of paying for high utility bills and expensive emergency repairs? Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance is the best way to save money while improving your home’s air quality and overall safety. Studies show that a dirty and unmaintained unit can rack up an additional 20% in operating costs. Learn more about HVAC maintenance benefits and how you can join our preventative Maintenance Program below.

Maintenance Savings

Don’t spend rainy-day funds on a day with clear skies. When you schedule preventive maintenance, you will extend the life of your unit and your savings account. Prevention is the best way to avoid costly repairs and emergency services.

As your air conditioner operates, it will inevitably incur some general wear and tear. During annual maintenance appointments, our HVAC technicians check for any signs of damage or safety issues. With pre-scheduled appointments, you can alleviate the time and stress accrued from having to remember when your A/C unit is due for maintenance. When your unit is maintained properly, it will run more efficiently and lower your energy bills.

Improved Air Quality and Home Safety

During your preventative maintenance appointment, an HVAC technician will inspect your unit’s air filters and other components that could be causing poor indoor air quality. If your technician notices system performance or safety errors, they can rectify the issue on-site or schedule a follow-up appointment.

Without regular maintenance, homeowners may not know their unit is experiencing any issues. This leads to more costly repair appointments later. It is crucial to be aware of problems as they arise. Some HVAC issues can be dangerous if they are not fixed immediately.

Increased Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained air conditioning unit consumes less fuel, making it more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. Without preventative maintenance, there are many factors that could be affecting your unit’s efficiency. Dirty air filters, dirty condenser coils, inadequate ventilation, and inadequate refrigerant are just a few of these contributing factors.

Your air conditioner’s efficiency will likely suffer if it is in need of service to alleviate issues. As efficiency decreases, you could wind up paying more money for a weaker performance from your air conditioner. During your regular HVAC maintenance appointment, your HVAC technician can identify and solve these issues to improve your unit’s efficiency.

Your HVAC unit needs proper attention and maintenance to stay efficient and keep you comfortable all year long. Did you know AC Designs has a Preferred Customer Maintenance Program? For a low annual fee, members can enjoy pre-scheduled system checks, discounts, lower utility bills, long-lasting equipment, and more! Sign up or schedule an appointment with our NATE-certified HVAC technicians in Jacksonville, FL today.

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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.

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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.

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