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What is the life expectancy of a commercial AC unit?

A quality commercial air conditioning system that has been installed and maintained properly can have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. Getting commercial air conditioning repair service done as needed is essential in keeping your commercial HVAC running efficiently and getting a longer lifespan. 

What maintenance should be done on a commercial air condition unit?

Annually, you should have a professional commercial air conditioning repair service contractor perform a full inspection and cleaning.  Your maintenance crew should take the following steps every month: 

1. Change the Air Filters 

Clean air filters are important for good airflow. Dirty air filters restrict the airflow which makes the system work harder, using more energy. Many professional commercial air conditioning repair service technicians find that problem to be a dirty air filter.

2. Visually Inspection

A visual inspection once a month by the maintenance team can often catch a problem before the system shuts down. This enables you to call a professional commercial air conditioning repair service technician and get the repairs needed.

3. Re-Calibrate 

A commercial air conditioning system needs to be re-calibrated prior to winter setting in and again before the summer heat arrives. This will need to be done by a certified commercial air conditioning repair service technician. 

4. Drainage Lines

The operation of a commercial air conditioning system includes both the air conditioner and furnace which create water vapor. This vapor goes through drain lines and into a drain pan. Once a month, your maintenance crew should empty the drain pan and clean the drain lines. This can prevent expensive and unnecessary professional commercial air conditioning repair service calls.

5. Clean Condenser Coils and Evaporator

The condenser coils and evaporator are exposed to the circulating air as they operate. The air often isn’t the cleanest with dirt, fungi, and mold sucking into them. This can have a significant impact on the system’s efficiency and if neglected, could result in the need for commercial air conditioning repair service.

How often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced?

With the monthly tasks we just listed for the in-house maintenance crew, you should have your system inspected and cleaned by a licensed, professional commercial air conditioning repair service company no less than once a year.

Why is commercial air conditioning repair service so expensive?

Several factors contribute to the cost of professional commercial air conditioning repair services. It is hard to state a price range because of those factors, three of which are: 

• The Problem

There can be a variety of issues and problems that require you to call a commercial air conditioning repair service company. From recharging the system with refrigerant to replacing the compressor, the more extensive the problem and the longer it takes will result in the service costing more.

• The Age

The older your air conditioning system is, the more expensive commercial air conditioning repair services are going to be. This is mainly because the parts are more expensive. After all, sometimes the parts aren’t readily available.

• The Labor

The labor of a professional and licensed commercial air conditioning repair service is expensive because they have gone through the training and have been certified and licensed. 

What are the most common problems of commercial air conditioning systems?

The most common reasons that professional commercial air conditioning repair services are: 

• Clogged or Dirty Air Filters.
• Inefficient Cooling.
• Odd sounds coming from the system.
• Unresponsiveness to the thermostat setting.
• Drain Line and Drain Pan Issues.
• Refrigerant Leaking.

Keeping Your Cool 

When you have a new commercial air conditioning system installed, take the maintenance program if offered!  This will have any commercial air conditioning repair service calls covered. Typically, parts and refrigerant are at an additional cost. 

If you move into a commercial structure already equipped with a working air conditioning system, have it inspected and serviced by a professional commercial air conditioning repair service company before using the system, calling three or four for estimates of what the service call will cost. Then follow through with any recommended commercial air conditioning repair service that is recommended. 

While both of these options will be an additional cost, in the long run, it can be a money saver. The unexpected breakdowns are minimized, even eliminated, and the routine cleaning, fine-tuning, and inspection will keep your system working at its maximum capacity, which is an energy saver. 

Call Your Local HVAC Professionals in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA

To maximize the benefits of regular HVAC filter replacement, it’s essential to follow manufacturer recommendations for filter replacement frequency and choose high-quality filters appropriate for your system and indoor air quality needs. Additionally, scheduling routine HVAC maintenance with a qualified technician can help ensure that your system operates efficiently and effectively year-round.

At what temperature are you experiencing an HVAC emergency?

An HVAC emergency is when the heating and air conditioning system is malfunctioning, or completely quits working when the temperatures are at a dangerous point. What temperature is considered an emergency during the summer? For a residential structure, an outdoor temperature of 90 degrees would be considered a temperature level to request an emergency AC repair service call. 

What should you do if your AC breaks at night?

When the air conditioner quits working during the day, calling for an emergency AC repair service won’t cost any more than a normal service visit. However, during the night, when the air conditioning quits working, you can avoid an emergency AC repair service call by keeping cool with these methods: 

• The Freezer 

No, we don’t mean stand in front of the freezer with the door open until your emergency AC repair service technician arrives. But you can put your bedding in plastic and put it in the freezer before going to bed. This will give you cooled sheets for the night. 

• Open Windows

By opening the windows once all the cooled air has dissipated, you’ll have improved air circulation. Be sure to close them and the curtains as the sun starts to rise until your emergency AC repair service is completed. 

• Cross-Breeze

Now is the time to get out the portable fans, both tabletop and floor models. Place them in front of open windows and this can create a cross breeze in each room.  Putting a bowl full of ice in front of the fans will make the air blowing across cooler too, and along with the ceiling fans, you’ll have a strong wind-chill effect as you wait to call for an emergency AC repair service.

• Limit Appliance Use

Avoid turning on the clothes dryer, cooking stove, or oven while waiting on your emergency AC repair service. This will generate excessive heat, adding to an already uncomfortable situation. Now is the best time to barbeque! 

• Keep Low 

Remember in science when you learned heat rises? If you have a two-story home, have every sleep down on the lowest level until your emergency AC repair service is completed. 

How can I cool my house during the day with a broken air conditioner? 

It’s bad if the air conditioning quits working during the middle of the night, but it isn’t any better during the day either. You can follow the same tips we listed above to keep cool along with the following additional tips during the day until your emergency AC repair service technician arrives: 

• The Freezer: During the day, wrap wet towels in plastic and place them in the freezer. Using ice packs on your forehead and around your neck will keep your body temperature cool. 

• Lighting: Keep the lights and other electronics off during the day if you’re not using them, including computers and television. 

• Keep Hydrated: Make sure everyone in the house is hydrated with cold water to keep their body temperature down. 

• Light-Colored Clothing: Wearing light-colored clothing will keep your body cooler, just as it does when outside in the sun. 

• Cold Baths and Showers: Taking cold baths or showers can lower the body temperature quickly. 

What is a good temperature to keep the air conditioner at to lower the energy bill?

Professional HVAC experts, along with the government, recommend setting the air conditioner at 78°F during the summer. This will keep the occupants in the house cool without a strain on the air conditioning system. 

Are there any indications the air conditioning system is about to go out? 

As a homeowner, you have many responsibilities, including paying attention to the main components, like the air conditioning. To avoid needing emergency AC repair service, when you notice any of these four things, schedule a regular service call immediately.  The problem could be addressed and repaired before it becomes an emergency: 

1. Warm air coming out of the vents.
2. You hear banging or clicking sounds. 
3. A musty odor comes out of the vents with the cooled air. 
4. The electric bill has increased more than usual. 

Keep Your Cool! 

With routine maintenance by you and annual check-ups and inspections by a professional HVAC service technician, you will have less chance of needing emergency AC repair services. If you’re having repeated service calls, emergency, or non-emergency, depending on the age of your HVAC system, it may be time to replace the unit. When repairs cost 25% or more than a new unit, it is probably time to purchase a new unit. And remember, if you do find yourself experiencing a need for emergency AC repair in Bonaire, Georgia you can always reach out to our team of professionals. Give us a call at 478-960-5825.

How long does a central heating system last?

Most central heating systems have an average life expectancy between 15 and 20 years. However, some factors can affect that lifespan such as: 

The Make and Model

The make and model of your central heating system are the most significant factors. Yes, the cheaper the unit, the shorter the lifespan. Within each brand, there are different levels of quality, so you can still buy a known brand’s lower quality. 

The Installation

Regardless of the brand and quality, if it isn’t installed correctly, it will shorten the lifespan of the central heating system you choose. 

The Placement

The placement of your central heating system will have a significant influence on the lifespan too. Having it installed in the attic will shorten the lifespan because of the heat buildup. And the crawlspace isn’t the best place either.  There isn’t always a lot of flexibility and options, but trusting your central heating technician to choose the best place is recommended. 

The Thermostat Settings

Having your central heating system’s thermostat set at 78 all winter, 24/7, will stress the system and shorten its lifespan, as well as dent your bank account. Wear layers and add blankets to keep that cozy warm feeling. 

Maintenance

Having a routine maintenance program is going to make the biggest impact on the lifespan. This includes maintenance by you monthly and annually by a professional central heating repair technician. A few maintenance tips include: 

• Change or clean the air filter monthly.
• Set the furnace thermostat on a low setting and leave it there.
• Caulk and seal air leaks around doors and windows.
• Keep the air vents in every room open and unobstructed. 

The annual maintenance by a professional central heating repair technician will typically include an inspection and tune-up. During this tune-up, they will perform basic tasks such as:

• Lubricating moving parts like the motor bearings.
• Cleaning the fan and surrounding compartment.
• Belts tightened or replaced if needed.
• Checking the electrical connections and their voltage.
• Test and inspect the heat exchanger, checking for cracks and damage.
• Check the combustion air calculation for adequacy. 
• Clean and inspect the burners.
• Check and inspect gas connections for leaks, and proper pressure.
• If applicable,  clean and inspect the condensate drain line and drain pan.
• Test the thermostat and calibrate if necessary.
• Clean and straighten the coil fins.

Who should you call for central heating repair service? 

If you need a central heating repair service,  if possible, call the company that installed the system. They will have installation and repair records and be familiar with the system. If you don’t know who installed the system, who you call will depend on what type of heating system you have. 

If you have a boiler-type heating system, a plumber would be the best person to call. They are trained for water leak repairs, which noises are unusual, and what the pressure fluctuations should be. 

However, if you can’t find a plumber available for central heating repair service, you can call an HVAC service technician too. Their specialty is typically central cooling and heating systems. 

What do you do if your central heating stops working?

There can be several reasons why your central heating system quits working, but calling a professional central heating repair service technician may not be necessary. Follow these troubleshooting steps before you make that call: 

• Blowing Cold Air: Make sure the thermostat is set to “COOL” and “AUTO”. If not, move it accordingly and set the thermostat to 72. If this doesn’t help, check the air filter. If it needs changing or cleaning, try that. If this doesn’t get warm air blowing, it’s time to call a central heating repair technician. 

• Air Ductwork Leaking: Every winter, go into the attic and check the ductwork for leaks. Use proper ductwork tape and seal any tears you find. If there are collapsed ducts, call a professional air duct service. 

• The Pilot Light: If you have a gas-powered central heating system, check the pilot light. If it isn’t lit, light it after checking the gas valve is turned on. If the gas is on and the pilot light is on and still getting cool air, call a central heating repair service. 

• The Heater Continues Running: First, check the thermostat is set to “AUTO”  and if it is in the “ON” setting, there is that is probably the problem. 

• Other possible problems could be the thermostat or the blower motor malfunctioning.

• House Isn’t Evenly Heating: This is usually blocked air vents, a dirty air filter, or the ductwork is broken, torn, or inadequate. A quick check for these things could be a quick fix, but if that doesn’t get the heat distributed evenly, it is time to call for a professional central heating repair service. 

Keep Warm Now, Cool Later

With any central heating system that has cooling features also, having a professional inspection once a year is recommended. It is sometimes a better deal to take a maintenance contract with that company and they will remind you when it is time for a professional cleaning and inspection. And remember, if you do find yourself in need of central heating repair services you can always reach out to the professionals on our team. Give us a call at 478-960-5825 when you find yourself in need of assistance.

How much does air duct installation cost?

If your home already has air ducts installed, there will be the added expense of that being removed first, then the new air ducts are installed. Both require the technician to work with the existing framing of the house, the HVAC system, as well as the electrical and sometimes the plumbing systems. The technician will need to make sure the entire HVAC system and air duct installation all meet building codes and requirements. 

In 2022, HVAC air duct installation for an average-sized, single-story home could range between $1,100 and $2,100 on average. A larger home or multi-story home could cost as much as $12,000 for a complete air duct installation job. 

Can you install ductwork yourself, or is it too complicated and technical?

Those numbers made some homeowners want to do the air duct installation themselves to save some money. And while air duct installation isn’t as technical as installing the HVAC system is, it isn’t recommended. And not because your HVAC technician wants to make more money off of you! If the installation isn’t done correctly, you could end up wasting money on cooled or heated air going into the attic, or worse, out the roof! 

How long does an air duct installation take?

No two homes are going to be the same. There are several factors that can determine the time it takes to install air ducts. Some can be completed in one day and others can take up to 4  days or even a week. The factors that can affect the time it takes include: 

• Design: Formulating the design is a big factor, even if there is an existing air duct layout, a new air duct installation takes some designing. A complex or intricate design takes longer to install, even more so if some of the existing ductwork is being left in place and needs repairs. Additional vents installed in various rooms can add time to the design. 
• Size: The air duct network size includes the number of ducts needed, which depends on the size of the house. The bigger the house, the more vents are needed. And if the house is multiple stories, this requires more vents. 
• Upgrading: If upgrading an existing system with newer tubing and vents, it can take some time with the fittings to get the installation correct. 
• Accessibility: Air ducts aren’t always as easily laid out as you may picture it. Some of it is often tucked away in inaccessible areas, making the installation process more challenging. 

How many years does ductwork last?

The material air ducts are made from consists of fiberglass and plastic. This combination of materials and professional air duct installation can last up to 15 years. This isn’t to say that all new air duct installation is needed at the 15^th year, but you should have it inspected and cleaned, every 2 to 3 years. If there are any holes or broken connections, they should be repaired, which may require some parts of the ducts to be replaced.

What are the benefits of an energy-efficient HVAC system? 

There are several benefits to having an energy-efficient HVAC system, but the main three benefits are: 

1. Carbon Footprint Reduced 

There are several environmental crises today, some are getting worse by the day. One of the things we can do is utilize things that reduce our carbon footprint.  An energy-efficient HVAC system does this while keeping your home comfortable. 

2. Saves Money

The term energy efficient HVAC system means you’ll only be using the energy needed to power the system. This means less electricity which keeps more money in your bank account. 

An energy-efficient HVAC system doesn’t work as hard as it used to, so the system needs less repair and will last longer. Saving you from having to make that big purchase too frequently.

What maintenance is needed to keep an energy-efficient HVAC system energy efficient? 

The key maintenance task that keeps an energy-efficient HVAC system energy efficient is to change or clean the air filter. For most systems, every 30 days is recommended, however, if you have several pets or live in a dusty area, you may need to do this every 15 to 20 days. Other steps you can do include: 

• Clean Air Conditioner Coils

There is a condenser coil within the system that collects dirt over time, and the air filter minimizes what gets to the coil.  However, the coils still collect dirt, and if they aren’t cleaned, the airflow is blocked. This keeps the coil from absorbing heat that is converted into cooled air. 

The exterior component has a condenser coil, which can get blocked by dirt dust, grass, and trash sucked up to it. This should be cleaned every month as well and make sure that grass and other foliage aren’t growing up around it. 

• Coil Fins

There are aluminum fins on the condenser and evaporator coils that can get bent easily. This blocks airflow, but by keeping them straightened out, using a fin comb, you can keep the air flowing as it needs. 

• Condensation Drain

As an energy-efficient HVAC system cools, it creates condensation which flows through drain channels into a drip pan. When the drain channels become clogged, the excess moisture can back up onto the flooring, discoloring the flooring and allowing mildew to form. 

What are the differences between an energy-efficient HVAC system and a standard HVAC system? 

Upgrading from your current HVAC system to an energy-efficient HVAC system will come at a cost upfront. However, that higher cost will be recovered over time with the energy savings. The differences that help this are: 

• SEER

The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is how air conditioner efficiency is rated. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) requires every air conditioning sold today to have a SEER rating of 14 and up, whether it is labeled as high efficiency. The higher the SEER rating the higher the cost. 

• Innovation

Technology has come a long way with innovation, including features that maximize comfort levels while not damaging the environment. This is done with variable speed adjusters that allow you to improve the efficiency as it operates. High energy efficient HVAC systems today regulate humidity better today without on-on-off cycling. 

In Conclusion

If you’re considering placing your home on the market in the near future, upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system will be an attractive feature for prospective buyers. Couple that with added insulation in the attic and upgraded windows will make your home stand above others in the same neighborhood that doesn’t offer these upgrades.

If you’re not planning on selling, your home will be more comfortable at less cost by upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system. The savings each month will recoup your investment over time. By following a routine schedule of changing or cleaning the air filters, coils, and drain pan, you’ll ensure a longer lifespan of your investment. If you would like to learn more about an energy-efficient HVAC system in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA, please reach out to us at 478-960-5825 today!

What is a ductless AC system? 

A d ductless air conditioner system, often referred to as a mini-split system, contains two components: one is outdoor, and one is indoor, which is wall-mounted sometimes. They are connected by electrical wiring and refrigerant tubing. The indoor component is what delivers cooled or heated air into the living space without any ductwork, hence the “ductless” in ductless AC systems. 

Is a ductless AC better than other ACs?

Central air conditioning cools the air with a centrally placed unit. That cooled air is distributed through air ducts, providing home a comprehensive cooled home. However, the air ducts must be installed and maintained, both an additional expense that a ductless air conditioner system doesn’t have.

Another concern with air ducts, they can be damaged and come apart, allowing that cooled air to escape into the attic. This alone makes ductless air conditioner systems more energy efficient.

What are the pros and cons of ductless AC?

A ductless air conditioning system is a new technology, and you’ll find it in commercial, industrial, and residential applications today. It is available to dual serve with both cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. 

The Pros of a Ductless Air Conditioning System: 

• Flexible and small, having one in each room if desired
• Each unit has its own thermostat. 
• Ductless means no air leaks from the air ducts
• Collects fewer contaminants and dust

The Cons of a Ductless Air Conditioning System:

• High upfront cost, up to 30% more than a central air conditioning system
• Visible in each room installed, takes from the aesthetics
• Some don’t like that the unit is inside the home, and very visible. 
• Experienced installation and service may be difficult to find

Can ductless AC cool an entire house?

Businesses and homeowners today are all about customizing and personalizing, including heating and cooling. Ductless air condition systems are the answer to this desire, they can do what central air conditioning can’t do. 

With a central unit, you need to choose the proper size to get the most benefit, and it has the additional expense of having ductwork installed and maintained too. A ductless air conditioning system is designed so you can expand as needed, and it will cool from the very bottom level of your home or business, to the highest area. How? You can use a separate ductless air conditioning system in each room or in as many rooms as needed to keep your business or home comfortable. 

Ductless air conditioning systems have multi-zone capabilities that allow the temperature to be independently controlled in each room or area.  The size is still a factor along with the following: 

• Expansion capabilities
• Size of your home
• Brand

Is a ductless system worth it?

Yes, the benefits of a ductless AC system make this one of the best choices in cooling a business or home today because it is scalable. You can install units in each room or area and set the temperature for that each room or area. They can be installed to hang from the ceiling, or they can be wall-mounted. 

Each unit will need a small hole for the refrigerant tubing that is connecting the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. They should be done by a licensed professional due to the electrical needs may require additional wiring. 

Do ductless AC units use a lot of electricity?

Ductless air conditioning systems use approximately 600 watts per hour, making them more energy-efficient than the traditional central air condition system, and the numbers prove that.  The average American household pays approximately $0.13 per kWh for electricity. This can vary between companies, location, and size of houses. 

If a ductless air conditioning system is run constantly for 24 hours, it will use around 430 kWh for the month. That is less than $60 for the electric bill. Every brand will have some variance in its energy efficiency, you’ll do yourself a favor and research them before making a purchase. 

What is an air duct?

An air duct installation is an essential part of the HVAC system. The job of the air duct system is to l distribute air throughout your home. The air duct system distributes the cooled or heated air to the vents in each room. What is the difference between air duct vs vents and are they both necessary?

Do you need air ducts in houses?

If your home has an HVAC system, aka central heating and air, yes, air duct installation is necessary or the cooled and heated air could not be dispersed throughout the house. Installing air conditioning without ducts can only be successful with individual window units.

Yes, both are necessary for a properly working air duct installation. As described above, the air ducts are where the cooled or heated air from the HVAC system is blown through and out the vents in each room. Some rooms may have more than one vent depending on the size of the room. Standing in a room, you will not see the air ducts installation, but you will see the covers over the vents. 

Where is the air duct located?

An air duct installation should always be installed within the conditioned envelope of the house. The ideal location is within the framing of the ceiling, flooring, and walls. Routine cleaning, inspections, and maintenance are recommended so they stay in good working condition, free of any blockages or collapsed sections. 

Can air ducts make you sick?

An air duct installation will require that they are professionally clean to remove the “stuff” that builds up inside them. That “stuff” includes bacteria, diseases, and viruses from the following:

• Dust and Dust Mites
• Fungi and Fungal Spores
• Mildew, Mold, and Mold Spores
• Pet dander
• People dander
• Pollen
• Insect and Rodent Feces, Nests, and Remains
• Tobacco Smoke 
• By-Products of Chemical Pollutants

All of these allergens, diseases, growths, and pollutants can affect the health of everyone living in your home, or even visitors with sensitive respiratory systems can suffer from any of the following: 

• Coughing, congestion, sneezing
• Itchy, scratchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Breathing difficulties including asthma and wheezing
• Fever
• Headaches
• Eczema, hives, or rashes
• Feeling of lethargic 

How much does it cost to install air ducts?

The average cost for air duct installation ranges between $2,000 and $7,000. Depending on the size of the home, single or multi-story, the cost could be less, or it could be more.  With ductwork costs between $18 and $27 per linear foot, there are multiple factors involved: Including removing any existing materials before installing the new components, cutting into ceilings, flooring, or walls, and the type of air duct material. 

Some examples:

• Flexible Polyester Ducts: Cost up to $4 per linear foot, this is the least expensive but has the shortest lifespan.
• Flexible Aluminum: Cost up to $5 per linear foot, durable material but lacks in energy efficiency and flexibility.
• Galvanized Steel: Cost up to $10 per linear foot, this is the most expensive, but the most durable air duct installation material. 

Other components and materials estimated costs are: 

• Vents: Averages at $150 per vent.
• Insulation: This can cost up to $4,000 depending on the type of insulation between fiberglass, the least expensive and foil-backed mineral wool, the most expensive. 
• Replacing Ductwork in Attic: Can cost up to $2,000 with insulation another $2,000.
• Replacing Ductwork in Crawl Space: As much as $25 per linear foot, an additional $6,000 for cleaning and repairing the crawl space, and a crawl space encapsulation system installed at an additional cost of $9,500.

Other modifications can increase the cost like repairing after the air duct installation is complete, installing a drop ceiling, and rerouting any existing ductwork. 

• Odd, Strange Sounds: If your air conditioning is making a shrieking noise, there are a couple of possible reasons. The fan belt may be loose, which a routine professional AC maintenance program could avoid this from happening. For the immediate time though, you need to turn the system off and call an emergency AC repair service. Another cause of a shrieking sound could be a problem with the compressor. Shut the system off immediately and call for an emergency AC repair service. 

• Strange Odors: If your air conditioner has a burning odor, it is either an electrical issue or the air conditioning system has overheated. Either way, turn the system off immediately and call an emergency AC repair service.

• No Air Flowing: If your air conditioning isn’t kicking on, or there isn’t any air flowing out, your air conditioning system is malfunctioning. Two possibilities could be the thermostat needs to be calibrated or replaced, or the problem could be the blower motor has gone out. These can be repaired by an emergency AC repair technician. Another possibility could be your air conditioning system needs to be replaced. The only way to know which of these are the problem is to call an emergency AC repair service. 

How much does emergency ac repair cost?

There are a few factors that are considered in the cost of an emergency AC repair service call such as: 

• The time of the day or night
• Holidays and weekends
• How extensive is the problem

On average, an emergency AC repair call is typically double or triple a regular AC repair service call with the rates running $150 to $250 per hour plus parts. 

Should I turn my AC off if it is not cooling?

Definitely, this should be the first thing you do after a few checks to see if you can get it cooling again. If you hear odd noises or smell anything different, turn the system off and call for an emergency AC repair service call. 

How can I cool things down if the AC is broken?

While waiting on an AC service technician, keep your home cooler with the following tips: 

• Box Fans, Ceiling Fans, Stand Fans: No, box fans and stand fans are not going to cool your house, but the circulating air will help keep you cool. You can place a container full of ice in front of box fans will make the air cooler! 

• Eat Out or Take Out: Keeping the oven and stove off will minimize the heat building up. Time to eat out or bring dinner home, or if eating at home is the only option, time to get the grill fired up! 

• Cold Showers: Yes, that can be chilling even thinking about it, but what better way to cool off than a cold shower. Let the kids play in the sprinkler and of course, if you have a swimming pool, jump in. 

• Cover the Windows: Yes, sunshine through the windows is wonderful, but it can also be heating your home up. Close the blinds and curtains for now. 

Why is my AC running but not blowing cool air?

If your AC isn’t blowing cold air, there are several things that could be the cause. There are some things you can check yourself if you know what to check if your AC is not cooling. Those things include: 

• Check the thermostat is set to cool and auto.
• Check the air filter, replace it if dirty. 
• Check the circuit breaker. 
• Check the power switch to the unit. 

If these things are all good, and you’re still not getting cold air from the unit, it is time to make an emergency AC repair call. 

What causes an AC unit to stop working?

There can be several reasons by an air conditioning unit stops working. Among those reasons are: 

• The thermostat
• The air filter
• The condenser
• The compressor

If your air conditioning system is 10 years old or older, it may be time to replace the unit! 

A natural gas heating system is more efficient than an electric heating system, so, if your home is set up for natural gas, that is the better option to choose. With that decided, you now need to choose between the three primary types of heating systems that will be the best for your home. Those three types are: 

Furnace

A furnace heating system is the most efficient, especially when powered by natural gas. A furnace heats the air with a heat exchanger and pushes it through a duct system with a blower motor. 

Not only is this the most efficient, but it is also the most affordable. The cost of a new natural gas furnace can range $2,000 up to $7,000. The biggest downside to a gas furnace is the noise level. Heating system maintenance is a little more detailed than electric choices when considering the pilot light.

Heat Pump

A heat pump system is an all-in-one system housing both air conditioning and heating, which makes it an efficient system in its own way. These take the hot air from inside your home and using refrigerant, removes the heat. Then it returns the cooled air back into your home. The heater portion works in reverse and takes the cold air from inside your home, heats it up, and then returns it to your home. 

This is an excellent air filtration system along with the heating and cooling and is quieter than the furnace heating system. However, they are on the expensive side with an average cost starting as low as $5,600 but can cost as much as $20,000. With three different varieties to choose from, you can fit your budget and needs between the air-source, geothermal, or split-duct style. Heating system maintenance is simple with the air filter changes being the biggest concern.

Boiler

Boilers are considered an old-school heating system, but they are still around, heating water up in a tank, then pumps that heated water through pipes into individual radiators. 

They are available in natural gas, the more efficient choice, or electric, the least common choice. They take up a lot of space and can cost around $10,000. When it comes to heating system maintenance, these are more finicky, and repairs are expensive.

What is the average heating system lifespan?

A gas furnace has an average life expectancy between 15 and 20 years. With proper heating system maintenance, you could get over 20 years of life expectancy. And for an electric heating system, maintenance on a regular basis could give you up to 30 years of life expectancy. 

How much to install a new heating system?

Homeowners in colder climates, like the far northeast, need a heating system that will function at any temperature. Fortunately, here in the Bonaire, Georgia area, the winters are typically not that harsh. This enables homeowners to choose a heating system that is budget-friendly as well as one that matches the power set up in the home, i.e., electric or gas. 

The average cost across the country for the heating system itself and the installation can range from $4,900 up to $10,000. This depends on which type of system you choose, the size of the home, and how much ductwork, if any, is needed. 

So – what heating system do I have?

If you’re not sure whether your heating system is electric or gas, check the front of the heating unit; you may have to open a small door. If there is a small window on the front, check through it for a blue flame, and then you have a gas-powered heating system. If there is no window, you have an electric heating system. You can also check the breaker box and if there is a circuit labeled “furnace” or “heater” you have an electric heater.

Why is my heating system not working?

If your heating system has quit working or the heating system keeps turning on and off, there could be several issues. A common issue is poor heating system maintenance, which is usually when the air filter hasn’t been changed every 30 days. Change the air filter, hit the reset button on the furnace and see if that helped. 

If not, check the thermostat and make sure it is on “heat” and “auto”. If the system is on “cool” or “off”, it isn’t going to come on. If the thermostat is programmable, try replacing the batteries and if the thermostat is older than 10 years, replace the entire thermostat. 

Other possible issues could be any of these three things: 

The Blower Capacitor

This is like a big battery that starts the furnace once the thermostat sends a message. If this component goes out, you’re not going to get any heat. With an annual heating system maintenance, this component is checked by the technician and replaced when there is indication it is about to fail.

The Refrigerant

This pertains to a home with a heat pump system. If the refrigerant level gets too low, the compressor will overheat, and the system quits working. An annual heating system maintenance with a professional service will include a refrigerant check which can keep this from happening. 

Faulty Ductwork

A heating system maintenance will include inspecting the duct work and would find ahead of time if it were broken, detached, or poorly designed and installed. Any of these things will keep the heat from dispersing through your home, even causing it to keep cycling off and on because the warmed air isn’t getting distributed correctly causing the thermostat to start and stop. 

Can a heating system cause a fire?

Absolutely, which is a tremendous part of what makes heating system maintenance so important! Over one in six home fires are caused by the heating system according to The National Fire Protection Association. That is second only to home fires started from cooking. While space heaters are the biggest cause and fireplaces right behind them, even a furnace can catch fire if the heating system maintenance is overlooked for too long. 

Can a heating system make you sick?

The heating system in your home is there to keep you comfortable. But if the heating system maintenance is ignored, it isn’t working efficiently and can cause any of the following issues: 

Recycling Particles 

Today, new homes are well-sealed and existing homes are sealed up to keep cold or hot air from leaking in or out. This is an energy bill-saving factor, but it also keeps fresh air from circulating throughout the home too. The air in our homes today has dust, pet dander, bacteria, and mold spores that are recycled and circulated continuously in our well-sealed homes. The investment of a quality air filter or an air filtration system will reduce the exposure to these things and make us healthier. 

Humidity Problems

Even the best working, best home heating system maintenance schedule will make a home extremely dry in the winter. This won’t make us sick, but it will cause the eyes, nose, skin, and throat to be irritated and uncomfortable. 

Carbon Monoxide 

Natural gas-powered heating systems that aren’t properly vented and working correctly can emit toxic carbon monoxide. This can cause various illnesses including confusion and muscle aches, and with longtime exposure, death.