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

Should My AC Be Running All Day in Summer?

Tuesday, June 20th, 2023

Summer season in Florida is here, but no matter how hot it is outside, your AC unit should never be running constantly. If you find that your AC is running all day without effectively cooling your home, there may be some underlying issues with your unit. At AC Designs, we’re here to offer some tips on how to reduce heat in your home without relying solely on your AC system.

Why is my AC unit running all day?

There are numerous factors that could contribute to your AC unit running continuously without cooling your home properly. Here are some of the most common issues that can place strain on your HVAC system:

Your AC Unit is Too Small

If your AC unit is undersized for the size of your home, it may struggle to cool each room effectively. This causes your unit to continuously run in an attempt to reach the desired temperature. Consult with a professional technician to determine if your AC unit is appropriately sized for your home.

You’ve Fallen Behind on AC Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your AC unit functions properly. Neglecting routine maintenance tasks like cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and cleaning the condenser coils can lead to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption. 

Summer AC maintenance is especially important as outdoor temperatures rise. Join AC Designs’ Preferred Customer Maintenance Program today to stay on top of these tasks and ensure your unit runs smoothly year-round.

Restricted Airflow 

Blockages in your AC system such as dirty air filters, closed vents, or blocked ductwork can restrict the airflow and strain your AC unit. This can cause it to run continuously without effectively cooling your home. Regularly inspect and clean air filters, ensure vents are open and unobstructed, and consider having your ductwork inspected regularly to prevent any issues.

Reduce the Heat Without Running Your AC Unit All Day 

Nothing beats your AC during the hot Jacksonville, FL summer, but it’s important to reduce strain on your unit as much as possible. Luckily, there are many alternative methods to cool down your home without solely relying on your HVAC system. Here are a few tips:

Run Appliances at Night

Appliances like dishwashers and dryers generate heat when in use. By running these appliances during the cooler evening hours, you can avoid adding extra heat to your home during the day.

Keep The Curtains Drawn

Closing curtains and blinds or using window treatments during the day can help block out sunlight and prevent heat from entering your home. This can significantly reduce the need for your AC unit to run continuously.

Use Thermostat Control

Set your thermostat to a slightly higher temperature during the day when you’re not at home to prevent your unit from running all day long. Some thermostat systems can be programmed to lower the temperature in your home before you return or when you need the cooling the most. 

Keep Fans on and Dehumidify

Ceiling fans or portable fans can encourage air circulation and create a breeze that makes your home feel cooler. Additionally, using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture levels, making the air feel more comfortable. 

HVAC Summer Maintenance in Jacksonville, FL

If your cooling system is constantly running during the day, it’s important to address the issue to keep your home comfortable and preserve your AC unit’s lifespan. Don’t let the summer heat take a toll on your comfort and energy bills—schedule an AC summer maintenance appointment with the experienced technicians at AC Designs today. 

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Celebrating National HVAC Tech Day 2023

Monday, June 19th, 2023

What is National HVAC Tech Day?

National HVAC Tech Day was created in 2016, a day to recognize all of the hard work and dedication of all HVAC technicians in the industry who help keep our units running year-round. There have been many great strides since central heating and air conditioning were invented in the 1900s. 

Why Do We Celebrate?

Without reliable A/C maintenance, these systems couldn’t operate properly. HVAC technicians keep our systems running because of their hard work, skillset and advanced technology. Oftentimes, your HVAC technician will recommend ways to save money on the right system for your home office. 

These technicians work in extreme conditions to help homeowners and renters improve the comfort in their home. That’s why on June 22nd, we show love and appreciation to our HVAC technicians.

Here are some of hard-working HVAC technicians:

Luciano Cordova: For over ten years, Luciano has worked hard to keep our customers in their comfort zones. His favorite part about working for AC Designs is being a part of a team that feels like family. In his free time, you can find him spending time with family or going to comic/horror conventions. We appreciate all of your hard work, Luciano!

Luciano in front of an AC Designs van

Tyler Stringer:  is a Senior Maintenance Technician at AC Designs. He works to ensure your HVAC system is cleaned properly and operates at manufacturer specs. Outside of work, Tyler enjoys spending time with his family and son, Waylon. Thanks for all of your hard work!

Tyler in front of an AC Designs van

Devonte Byrd: Say hello to Devonte Byrd, one of our meticulous training technicians! His passion for learning and growing is commendable, and we are so lucky to have him. His favorite part of the job is the fact that he gets to learn something new everyday, and in turn getting to pass that knowledge on. Devonte stays in his comfort zone by listening to his favorite music. We’re grateful to have him on the team!

Devonte in front of an AC Designs van

Tristan Mendigutia: Tristan is a graduate of FCTC in St. Augustine. He has been a Maintenance Tech with us for about 2 years and has recently been promoted to Training Tech status. Tristan is very ambitious and takes every opportunity to up his HVAC game. When not working, Tristan stays in his Comfort Zone by listening to and playing music.

Tristan in front of an AC Designs van

Daniel Soto:  Daniel Soto has been a service technician at AC Designs for the past year. Keeping our customers in their comfort zones is Daniel’s #1 priority on the job. In his free time, he loves spending time with this three daughters. Thanks for all of your hard work, Daniel!

Daniel in front of an AC Designs van

Ways to Show Appreciation

If your HVAC tech makes sure your system stays running correctly and gives you good advice, you can show them your appreciation in a few ways:

  • Say thank you
  • A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Most people just want to know they are appreciated.
  • Leave a review
  • Technicians love when you leave amazing reviews. Show your support for your favorite technician by leaving them a personalized review!
  • Share a picture
    Use social media and share a picture of your HVAC tech, HVAC company, or your system with the hashtag #NationalHVACTechDay.
  • Do the work
    Your system won’t work well if you aren’t keeping up with things after your tech has done their job. That means you must change the air filters on a regular basis, insulate your home, and keep up with your maintenance appointments. This makes your technician’s job a little easier.

These are just a few ways you can remember your technician on HVAC Tech Day. As one of the premier firms of HVAC technicians Jacksonville, FL has to offer, you’ll always be in good hands with A/C Designs. For more information, book an appointment with our team of HVAC experts today!

Thank Your HVAC Technician Today – Leave a Review!

Here are a couple reviews celebrating some of our HVAC techs! 

“Ignacio was so professional and informative! He explained the way that the A/C filter works and the UV light kit and was very efficient. It was a pleasure doing business and Ignacio made me want to use this company again!” -Sarah K.

“5 /15/23 BILLY Came out today from St Augustine and was on time and very informative .I didn’t have any work done but I will be in the future. I can’t thank him enough for his professionalism and knowledge on what I need to have done before I can move forward. We have used these guys before and will continue to use them.” -Rita M.

“Excellent and professional work done by Wayne today. Thanks Wayne!” Pete V.

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Vote AC Designs Best AC Company in Jax

Wednesday, May 24th, 2023

At AC Designs, we’re proud to be a 100% family-owned and operated business. For over 20 years, we’ve been committed to delivering the very best customer service possible. Our team is made up of 180+ experts in what life is like on the First Coast. 

Everyone at AC Designs will go the extra mile to ensure any air conditioning needs you may encounter are met with personalized care and expertise. If you agree that we provide the best HVAC services in Northeast Florida, vote for us for this year’s Bold City Best competition. Your vote means everything to us and will help other homeowners across the First Coast find us for all their AC needs. Thank you in advance!

Why Choose a Family-Owned AC Company?

Selecting the right service provider is crucial when it comes to maintaining and optimizing your home’s air conditioning and heating system. Many nationally-owned HVAC companies prioritize sales quotas and aggressive selling techniques. 

This causes them to lose sight of the customer, pushing unnecessary repairs just to earn commission and meet national expectations. At AC Designs, we operate in the capacity of a large corporation while keeping a family-oriented vision. 

We value the relationships we create with customers and personalize our service to you. AC Designs understands that Jacksonville and St. Augustine are different from other regions of the country, or even Florida, and can promise that no quota will alter your experience. 

AC Designs team
AC Designs team in 2012.

Commitment to Quality

The AC Designs staff takes pride in upholding our legacy as a family-owned business, ensuring every customer receives the attention and care that they deserve. Our company is proud to offer high-quality services that you won’t receive from a corporate-owned company. 

AC Designs technicians are trained to consider the customer and their needs first. We don’t champion part repairs with a commission and allow ample time to complete our services. You can rest assured that if we diagnose an issue, it was done out of necessity, not for an extra dollar. 

Our team of NATE-certified technicians provides high-quality services, including AC repair, maintenance, replacement, and other indoor air solutions. AC Designs was named Bold City’s Best AC/Heating Service company three years in a row based on our outstanding air conditioning services.

We offer a wide range of the best AC unit brands, and our knowledgeable staff can provide customized solutions tailored to your specific air conditioning needs. The AC Designs team is dedicated to ensuring that our commitment to our customers is reflected in every aspect of our services. 

Understanding Your Neighborhood

One of the unique advantages of hiring our family-owned AC company is our deep understanding of your neighborhood and its specific climate conditions. This way, our technicians can provide the most appropriate suggestions for your home and air conditioning needs.

AC Designs technicians have a greater understanding of the local weather patterns in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, a knowledge that corporate-owned companies often don’t have. This enables our team to make informed recommendations regarding the size and type of AC unit that best suits your home. 

Unlike corporate-owned AC companies, our family-owned AC company won’t try to upsell you on unnecessary units or services. AC Designs’ personalized approach ensures that you receive recommendations that align with your specific needs, resulting in efficient solutions that won’t break the bank.

Enhanced Customer Service

Another advantage of choosing a family-owned AC company is the enhanced level of customer service you can expect. At AC Designs, the relationship between our owners and employees is personal – our team knows who they work for and the values that our business strives to deliver. 

This encourages our staff members to take full ownership of customer experience, ensuring that if any issues arise, we make them right. Unlike corporate-owned companies, our family-owned AC company offers a direct line of communication to those in charge, allowing for faster responses and solutions.

AC Designs also provides After Hours service, along with other benefits through programs like the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club. This program provides customers with priority service, regular maintenance visits, and exclusive discounts, ensuring that your AC system remains in optimal condition year-round.

Vote AC Designs Best AC Company in Jacksonville, FL

After over 20 years of serving the Jacksonville community, our goal remains the same: to provide First Coast homeowners with the best air conditioning maintenance and service possible. We hope that you’ll consider voting AC Designs as Bold City’s Best Heating and AC Company for 2023!

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A/C Designs Gifts New A/C Unit to Jacksonville Military Family in Partnership with Lennar and Operation FINALLY HOME

Thursday, January 28th, 2021

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

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

Jacksonville military family standing by new ac unit

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

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

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

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A/C Designs is Now Hiring

Tuesday, January 5th, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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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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HVAC Energy Saving Tips for the Holidays

Monday, December 14th, 2020

Christmastime is one of the most wonderful times of the year — and it is also the time of year when the most energy is used around the home. Heating bills go up as temperatures drop, and that’s compounded by frequent visitors coming through your doors. Here’s a list of tips and tricks to help cut down on energy usage during the holidays.

Essential Tips for Saving Energy This Christmas

It’s good to save money year-round, but at Christmastime in particular, you could use some extra savings in your pocket — and energy savings are a key way to do that. Reduce your energy usage in the following ways:

  • If you’re expecting to be away from home a lot over the holidays, there’s no need to let your heating and cooling system keep your home at the ideal temperature when you’re not home. Invest in a wifi-enabled thermostat to remotely control temperature, set your heating lower before you leave, or turn off the air conditioning to save.
  • Holidays mean lots of people coming and going through your doors — and sometimes those doors are left hanging open, which lets warm or cold air out. Save your AC unit some trouble by making sure that doors are closed when people aren’t using them.
  • Many people make Christmas meals to celebrate the holidays, but perhaps you’ve never noticed the indoor temperature going up just a notch while your oven is running. That’s right, cooking with your oven is a good and frugal way to help heat up your home using the heat generated by the machine. You can cut down on your power bill and have a hot home-cooked meal at the same time.
  • Enroll in an HVAC maintenance program so that technicians can monitor your heating and cooling equipment. Routine maintenance lowers utility bills and prevents problems before they can become costly.
  • Don’t just keep the power on. Be it whether you’re leaving a room or the house, remember to turn off unused applications and lights. That goes for power strips too, as they can still hog energy even if you don’t notice them easily. Turning the power off whenever you can is not only good for the environment but also your power bill.
  • Go for energy-efficient Christmas lights. Choose LED ones over traditional light bulbs or other sorts of fancy electronic decorations that eat a lot of wattage.

Contact A/C Designs to Help You Save 

There are other ways you can save, too, such as zoned heating and cooling systems that allow you to use less energy in areas of the home that you aren’t actively using. If you’re looking for services concerning air conditioning in Jacksonville, Florida, contact A/C Designs and let us help you figure out ways that you can get those energy bills lower.

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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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Tips For Your A/C When You Turn on the Heater for the First Time

Monday, November 16th, 2020

As temperatures slowly get cooler in the Jacksonville area, you can expect to start using your heater soon. Before using it for the first time this season, though, you should make sure it’s in good condition. This helps ensure that you’ll have efficient heating in your home all fall and winter long.

Don’t Switch From A/C to Heat Suddenly 

If possible, you should avoid having your air conditioning turned up high and switching over to your heating system later that day or the next. Doing this could make it hard for your HVAC system to work efficiently. Gradually change your indoor temperature over time, so that you’re not going from a very cool temperature to a very warm one. Turn up your thermostat a degree or two while you’re still using your a/c. As the weather gets cooler, stop using your a/c and put your heating system on low when you first use it. You can slowly adjust your thermostat so that the interior of your home stays warm enough on cold days. Taking this approach prevents excess wear and tear on your HVAC system. 

Test Your HVAC System 

Since your heating system hasn’t been on for months, it’s important to test it before using it regularly. Turn your heating system on for about an hour just to test it and make sure it’s working right. This also helps you check to see if your thermostat is functioning properly. Your heat should come on without any problems and blow heated air out of your vents. Keep in mind that you’ll need to have your heating system checked if it’s blowing cool air from your vents, not coming on at all, or turning on and off frequently.

Set Up HVAC Maintenance 

HVAC maintenance is among the most effective ways to make sure your heating system is all set for winter. Having professional maintenance done can also help identify any issues your a/c might have after running for several months. You can have these issues handled now so that you won’t need to have repairs done next spring when you turn your a/c on again. During a routine HVAC maintenance visit, technicians can do a thorough inspection of your heating and cooling equipment. In addition to looking for possible problems with your HVAC system, technicians can clean equipment, adjust or tighten components as needed, and do other tasks to ensure that it’s in good condition and able to work properly.

If you need to schedule HVAC maintenance this fall or winter, contact A/C Designs today. We provide high-quality HVAC maintenance and other services in the Jacksonville area.

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