Conditioned Air Company of Naples, LLC Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning Installation’ Category

5 Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioning Installation 

Friday, December 9th, 2022

If you’re living in a small space and are looking for an efficient way of staying comfortable in your home during the summer, you might want to consider ductless air conditioning. Ductless AC installation is a quieter, simpler and more compact way of cooling a home. There are many benefits of ductless systems (also referred to as ductless mini-split units), including the five below. 

1. Simple to Install 

Ductless installation is simple to install. It essentially: 

  • Is hassle-free. 
  • Requires no invasive ductwork. 
  • Can be finished in only a few days. 

The simplicity of ductless installation results in it being less costly than a traditional AC system. 

2. Increases Energy Efficiency 

Ductless AC units are more energy-efficient than regular HVAC systems for various reasons, including: 

  • Traditional HVAC units can develop leaks in the ductwork, reducing the unit’s efficiency. 
  • You can turn off the units in other rooms you’re not using instead of cooling your entire home, thereby reducing your energy use and energy bill. 
  • Most AC units use compressors (one- or two-speed) that cycle on and off in order to maintain the programmed temperature in your home. This results in more electricity use. Ductless AC units use variable speed compressors that make adjustments continuously to keep your house at a consistent temperature. Because they don’t cycle on and off all day long, they’re more energy-efficient. 

3. Ductless Units Run Quietly 

Debris or leaks in ductwork could lead to banging or whistling sounds and you may even hear the scurrying or squeaking of pests that have infested your ducts. Once you have a mini-split system installed, the professional HVAC technician will either seal your air registers or remove your ductwork. This way you won’t need to worry about noisy pests, debris or leaks. 

Also, ductless installation is quieter since the indoor mini-split systems don’t always operate at the same time. Because they don’t require as much power to run, you can use a quieter, smaller outdoor system as well. 

4. Requires Little Maintenance 

To keep your mini-split unit in good working order, you just need to: 

  • Keep the wall unit’s vents clear 
  • Clean the filters 
  • Clean up the outside system to maintain airflow 

There’s no need to seal duct leaks or clean ductwork like you would have to with a traditional AC unit. 

5. Improves the Quality of your Indoor Air 

If you or another family member is suffering from asthma or allergies, ductless AC installation is a great way to improve your home’s indoor air quality. Unlike with traditional HVAC units, ductless units don’t have ductwork that allows the accumulation of dust, dirt and debris. It uses multi-layer filtration that decreases the amount of dust, allergens and pollutants that enter your house, keeping it healthy and clean. For more information or to schedule service, contact Conditioned Air today!

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Prevent Your Commercial Air Conditioner from Freezing with These Tips

Monday, December 27th, 2021

Commercial air conditioners are usually larger, unlike their residential counterparts. That means they are costlier, not just upfront but in repairs as well. Therefore, keeping your commercial air conditioning system in a good functional condition will always go a long way into reducing your business expenses. One of the common problems you’re likely to face with your commercial air conditioning is freezing. This can happen even during hot months. Freezing reduces the efficiency of your air conditioning system, and in most cases, you’ll need to shut it down until you fix the problem to prevent high energy bills. Below are tips on what to do when your commercial air conditioner freezes up.

Inspect Your Air Filters and Clean/Replace If Necessary

Airflow problems are the most common culprits when it comes to frozen air conditioners. That’s because proper airflow is imperative for keeping the cold air warm and preventing freezing. Therefore, check the air filters for dirt and other debris and clean or replace them depending on the model of the filters. Keep in mind that sometimes an air filter that isn’t the right size can also cause airflow issues. If your air filters aren’t the problem, schedule a ductwork inspection too. Blocked ducts can also prevent proper flow of air through your air conditioning system.

Check Your Refrigerant Lines for Leaks

If you have recently replaced your air filters or ductwork inspection doesn’t reveal any blockages, consider scheduling an inspection of your refrigerant lines. That’s because you could be dealing with low refrigerant or coolant levels. The refrigerant plays a crucial role in the cooling process. Usually, the refrigerant operates at a certain level of pressure. A drop in this pressure resulting from refrigerant leaks can facilitate the condensation of moisture on the refrigerant lines. While refilling the refrigerant may seem like a viable solution here, leaky refrigerant lines should be repaired. Refilling will only cost you more since the refrigerant will continue leaking.

Inspect Your Blower Fan

The blower fan is a crucial component of your commercial air conditioning system whose function is to aid the movement of the warmer indoor air outside your home to allow the cold air to settle inside. A defective blower fan will allow the cold and denser air to settle on the coils instead, resulting in condensation and freezing. Some of the things to watch out for when inspecting your blower fan for damage include breakages and cracks.

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You Get What You Pay for with Air Conditioning Installation

Thursday, June 24th, 2021

When you’re getting air conditioning installation done, it’s important to go with the right contractor because this is a complex and expensive process. You can’t afford to have an amateur install your air conditioning or you might have to get it done all over again.

Although someone with less experience will probably offer to do the installation for less, the fact is that you get what you pay for. This doesn’t mean that you have to go with the most expensive contractor on the market. But go for someone reputable who has been around for a long time and has good reviews. And such a contractor will usually charge you a reasonable amount which is neither too high nor too low.

Researching Air Conditioning Systems

Make sure that you consult the contractor about the various air conditioning systems available on the market. Also consider the pros and cons of getting central air conditioning and window air conditioners. Depending on how much you use your air conditioning, one or the other of these might be better for you.

Doing your research before you decide on an air conditioning system and an air conditioning contractor is necessary or you might end up with an air conditioning system that blows out within a couple of years and have to go through the whole process of installation again.

Installation, Repair and Service

It can be quite bothersome when your air conditioning system has to be repaired over and over after installation. This is something you can avoid by doing some research and getting the right system for your needs. If you get a good air conditioning system and have it installed by a reliable contractor, you shouldn’t need to call them for more than routine tuneups or service.

But keep in mind that these tuneups are necessary to keep an air conditioning system going in the long run. Just as you might take yourself to the doctor for checkups, you need to do the same with your air conditioning system.

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Get Your Home a New AC

Friday, May 14th, 2021

With the ongoing pandemic, it is more important than ever to make sure you can breathe normally in your own home. As breathing difficulties increase, so do your chances of getting a disease. Not only would having a new AC installed help your life become easier to handle, it will also help ease your energy bill and can increase the value of your home.

Get Comfortable With a New AC

We tend to panic even more when we are uncomfortable and an improperly heated home can definitely add to that stress.  Not only can you help yourself stay calm by keeping your home cool, you also help prevent your body from losing an excessive amount of water which can cause dehydration. Having a heat stroke or suffering from dehydration isn’t any prettier than any other reason for going to the hospital, so prevent yourself from having massive medical bills because you couldn’t stay cool with your new AC.

People with breathing difficulties associated with asthma and allergies are also more likely to be affected by the current pandemic and may require trips to the hospital as well. Newer AC’s have better air filters than older models. Humidity is one of the primary factors for bacterial and mold growth which are also known causes for breathing difficulties. Having a new, properly maintained AC can slow or prevent these problems from getting worse.

Lower Your Electric Bills with a New AC

It is expensive to keep an AC running. Newer AC’s are way more energy efficient than the older ones which can drastically lower your electric bill. You can keep yourself occupied during these self-quarantine days by running more of your entertainment systems and running more appliances in general because you now have a lower electric bill.

New AC’s Can Add Up To 5% Value to Your Home

According to Consumer Reports, home automation is one of those new ways to increase the property value of your home and a new AC system is one of the popular ones, whether you are selling your home or not. 5% may sound insignificant but that translates to roughly an increased value of $5,000 – $15,000 to your home (assuming a typical value of 100k – 300k). For a 500 or 1000 dollar investment, that is a significant return.

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4 Signs You May Need a New HVAC System

Wednesday, October 17th, 2018

An HVAC system is an important investment for your home and your family especially here in Southwest Florida. Installing a new system in Sarasota, Naples & Fort Myers may seem expensive, but repairing an old inefficient system may cost you a considerable amount of money as well. High utility bills and maintenance costs may continue to pile up. An overworked system can also lead to fires, mold or structural weaknesses. It’s a fact that our AC Units run more than anywhere in the country. Is it time to upgrade?

Having the unfortunate surprise of a failing system is never pleasant.  Lack of air conditioning in the hot summer months can cause serious discomfort and safety risks especially with the elderly and children.

Here are four signs that you may need to consider a new HVAC system for your home:

Your System Was Installed Over 8 Years ago

This may seem obvious but there is good reasoning behind a new system. If your unit is older than 8 years, it is probably not energy efficient and does not perform as well. Newer efficient systems can save you up to 40% on utility costs and may offer programmable thermostats which are easier for your family to use. Upgrading can save you time and money on your electric bill.

Repairs Keep Adding Up

When motors, coils or compressors fail in your old system, the labor and parts costs can add up quickly. Replacing your old, deteriorating system with a new system may be a much more beneficial investment over time when compared to mounting repair costs.

 

Your System Is Loud

If your air conditioning and heating unit is making aggressive and loud sounds, this could be a sign of more serious, underlying problems. Blowers, motors and fans within your HVAC system should work without squealing or grinding sounds.

 

Your Indoor Air Quality has diminished 

Old or run down systems can carry mold, allergens, excess humidity and dust into your living space. If this is the case, your current system may just need some duct sealing and leak repairs to improve it, or you could need a new system entirely.. Having a Conditioned Air tech inspect your home’s HVAC will uncover the extent of the problem. If your old system is insufficient or malfunctioning enough, you should consider budgeting for a new one, instead of pouring resources into something that can only be marginally improved upon.

One thing to note here is that our techs never work on commission so you can rest assured. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms with your home’s HVAC system, or you have any questions, Call Conditioned Air at 1-888-COLD-AIR to schedule a an inspection of your heating and air conditioning unit! We are happy to help 24/7!

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IS YOUR HOME OLDER? HERE’S SOME TIPS TO KEEP COOL

Friday, May 4th, 2018

In the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida, air conditioning is practically a necessity during the hottest parts of the year, and a quality system can increase the value of your home significantly. Many older homes lack a central air conditioning system, so here are a few tips that will help when installing air conditioning in an older home:

Prepare Your Home

For an air conditioning system to run efficiently without dramatically increasing your energy costs, your home must be reasonably sealed and insulated. Drafts around windows, doors and other penetrations in your exterior walls can allow cool air to escape, significantly increasing your cooling costs, and a lack of insulation will make it hard for your home to maintain a cool temperature. Before installing air conditioning in an older home, consider having an energy evaluation done to find out where your home needs proper sealing and additional insulation.

 

Choose a System Type

If your home has existing ducts for a furnace, adding a central air conditioning system can be a relatively inexpensive choice. If, however, ducts must be added, the costs will increase dramatically. In that case, you may want to consider adding a ductless mini-split system, which can cool one or more rooms without the need for traditional air ducts. If you are upgrading your heating system at the same time, another option may be a heat pump, which requires air ducts, but can both heat and cool your home efficiently and cost-effectively.

Size It Correctly

Often, especially in older homes, air conditioners are oversized to compensate for any problems with air leaks or poor insulation. An air conditioner that isn’t properly sized will run inefficiently, increasing energy costs. Oversized systems will cycle on and off frequently, preventing proper dehumidification and stressing components like the blower motor and fans. Systems that are too small will work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A professional should be used to size the system, using the proper Manual J procedures.

For more tips on installing air conditioning in an older home, talk to our team at Conditioned Air.

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3 SIGNS YOU MAY NEED TO UPGRADE YOUR AIR CONDITIONING UNIT

Friday, December 8th, 2017

With the hot and humid summers in Southwest Florida, air conditioners are all but required, and if the system in your home is showing its age, it may be time for a new A/C installation. There are several signs that it may be time to upgrade, and they should be considered carefully.

Utility Bills Have Increased Dramatically

As the components of your air conditioner begin to wear and fail, the system’s efficiency will gradually decrease and its cooling effectiveness will wane. If the system is a few years old, it may already be inefficient, and though you could keep it running with frequent filter replacements and minor maintenance, its lack of efficiency will start to add up, leaving you with huge utility bills. Eventually, the accumulated operating costs will become higher than the cost of a new system.

Frequent Repairs are Required

When your system starts breaking down frequently, and the repair bills start creeping higher, it may be time to consider a new A/C installation. Once major components like the blower motor or compressor start failing, it’s only a matter of time before the others follow, because they all tend to have similar life spans. Upgrading to a new system can reduce your maintenance costs significantly and it will be far less trouble than scheduling all those service visits.

The System is Over 10 Years Old

Even if your air conditioner is running perfectly fine now, you should be ready to replace it if it is over 10 years old. Most air conditioners have an expected lifespan of 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance, or shorter if the maintenance was erratic or incomplete. At this point major components will begin to fail and it will start to run less efficiently. By upgrading to a new model, you can take advantage of today’s advancements in efficiency, and save up to 20%-40% off your cooling bills.

If you are considering a new A/C installation, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air to learn about your options. We have been serving Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota and the surrounding areas since 1962.

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THE RIGHT HVAC CONTRACTOR: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tuesday, November 21st, 2017

When there is something wrong with your home’s HVAC system, it won’t take long for things to get uncomfortable. You might not have the time to do an extended search of the HVAC contractors in Sarasota to find just the right one. Friends and family can also help steer you in the right direction, so ask them for referrals. You may end up with a couple good names. Still, it’s best to look a little deeper to make the perfect choice for your home. Here are some keys to look for when you are seeking a trusted and respected contractor to do the repairs on your home.

The first item on your list should be asking about HVAC certifications and national memberships. Many such organizations, like the North American Technician Excellence program, are dedicated to testing members on their comprehensive field knowledge, ensuring they are up to date.

It is important that you pick a contractor that is licensed, bonded and insured. The state of Florida requires anyone working in the HVAC industry be licensed through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Being licensed through the CILB indicates the contractor meets the state’s requirements for training and field experience. Possible contractors should be bonded, which covers you if a contractor fails to meet the terms of your contract. They should also be fully insured, which covers you in case someone is injured while working at your home, or sustains injuries due to their negligence.

There are a number of signs to be wary of, as well. Choosing the right HVAC system depends on a number of factors, including the size of your home. HVAC contractors in Sarasota, Fort Myers Or Naples that offer to quote you an estimate over the phone without having ever seen your home, or that offer what seems to be a very cheap estimate should be avoided.

The name at the top of your list for HVAC service and repair should always be Conditioned Air. We’ve been serving southwest Florida homes just like yours since 1962. Contact us the next time things start to get uncomfortable in your home.

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YOUR DUCTWORK: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Monday, October 16th, 2017

Air ducts are a vital component of your home’s HVAC system, and any ducts that are leaking can reduce the performance of the system considerably, increasing your energy costs and making your home less comfortable. Properly sealing your ductwork is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things that you should know first.

WHY A PROPER SEAL IS IMPORTANT

Leaking ductwork can allow up to 30 percent of the air moving through the system to be lost, increasing your heating and cooling bills by up to 40 percent. Additionally, leaks in the ductwork can allow dust, combustion gases from nearby appliances and other pollutants to enter the duct system and be carried throughout the house, reducing your indoor air quality. Properly sealing your ductwork can reduce your energy costs, especially if the ducts run through uninsulated spaces like the attic, basement or a crawl space, and it can improve your home’s indoor air quality.

HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU HAVE LEAKS

A couple of the symptoms of leaky ductwork are high energy costs, inconsistent temperatures or rooms that are hard to keep heated or cooled. You can also inspect any ducts that are easily accessible and check for damaged tape or mastic at the joints, disconnected or loose joints, holes or other damage, and obvious air leaks. Often, however, the ductwork is hidden in walls or otherwise inaccessible, and you may need a professional to inspect it.

SEALING THE DUCTWORK

Sealing your ductwork can be a difficult job, especially if it’s inaccessible, and it’s often best left to a professional. To do it properly, any loose joints need to be secured, using screws for rigid ducts or the proper clamps for flexible ducts, and each joint should be sealed with mastic or foil tape that is specially designed for HVAC systems. Despite the name, regular duct tape cannot do the job properly. Any holes or other damage should be patched, and kinks or twists in flexible ducts should be straightened.

For more information about sealing your ductwork, talk to our professionals at Conditioned Air, serving Southwest Florida.

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3 Key Advantages Of A Ductless System

Tuesday, June 27th, 2017

Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are an efficient and effective way to add a cooling system to an existing home, an addition or even a new home. The advantages of a ductless system are numerous, but there are three key advantages that make them distinct from conventional systems:

Greater Efficiency

Ductless systems are extremely efficient, largely because they lack air ducts, which can waste up to 30 percent of the energy used for cooling through leaks or poor insulation. Many systems also feature variable-speed air handlers, inverter-driven multiple-speed compressors, improved coil designs and optional zoning systems that help to increase energy efficiency further. The latest models feature a seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, of up to 22, compared to the federal minimum of 14 SEER for Southwest Florida.

Easy Installation

With an outdoor unit, one or more interior air handlers, and a few refrigerant and electric lines connecting them, ductless systems are easy to install. They require only a small 3 to 4 inch opening through a wall or ceiling to route the electrical and refrigerant lines, minimizing damage to your home and remodeling. In comparison, a central air conditioner or heat pump requires custom ducts to be fabricated, a centralized location for the interior air handler and evaporator, and several openings for electrical and refrigerant lines.

Optional Heating

Many ductless systems can reverse the refrigeration cycle during the winter, providing heating instead of cooling. This eliminates the extra cost of a separate heating system, which is only occasionally needed in Southwest Florida. With a multiple-room system, each zone can be adjusted to the perfect temperature for the occupants, winter or summer.

To learn more about the advantages of a ductless system, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air today. We serve Southwest Florida, from Bradenton to Marco Island, and we have been providing quality, reliable HVAC services throughout the area since 1962.

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