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

3 Benefits Of Home Service Agreements

Tuesday, March 14th, 2017

One of the best ways to protect the air conditioning system in your Florida home is with regular maintenance, which will help keep the system running efficiently and prevent premature failure. HVAC service agreements make keeping up with your system’s maintenance requirements simple and convenient, and they offer several benefits for Southwest Florida homeowners.

Automatic Service Reminders

When it is time to perform routine maintenance, like cleaning the coils, replacing the air filter and checking the refrigerant levels, your HVAC provider can send reminders that service is due, so that you can schedule an appointment for a convenient date and time. This makes it less likely that you will forget, and allows your provider to make sure your service is completed before the busier parts of the year, when it will be harder to schedule an appointment.

Reduced Cooling Costs

HVAC service agreements prevent common air conditioning problems like dirty air filters and coils, which can make it harder for the system to move air through the ducts and to remove heat from your home. With proper maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, your system will run more efficiently, reducing your cooling costs and helping the environment.

Avoiding Future Problems

With frequent service visits, your HVAC provider will become familiar with your system and will be able to spot minor problems, like airflow obstructions or refrigerant leaks, before they cause further damage to the system, or a complete system failure. Not only will this reduce your repair costs, but it will extend the life of your air conditioning system. Finally, if you do have a problem, because you have a maintenance agreement and an existing relationship, you will receive priority service and other valuable incentives.

To learn more about the many benefits of HVAC service agreements, or to learn which plans are available for your system, talk to our HVAC experts at Conditioned Air today. We have been serving Southwest Florida, from Bradenton to Marco Island, since 1962.

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5 Ways to Reduce Strain on your AC System

Tuesday, February 21st, 2017

With the hot and humid weather in Southwest Florida, any extra stress on your air conditioner can not only increase your energy usage and utility costs, but it can also lead to premature failure of the system. By taking a few simple precautions and keeping up with routine maintenance, extending the life of an HVAC system is possible, and relatively easy.

Have the System Inspected Twice a Year

Routine maintenance is the key to extending the life of an HVAC system. Have a professional inspect the system at least twice a year, performing regular maintenance like cleaning the coils and changing the air filter, as well as looking for anything that may pose a problem in the future. With the system in prime condition, it will not have to work as hard, extending its useful lifespan.

Replace the Air Filter Often

Between service visits, you should check the air filter yourself at least once a month. A clogged filter significantly reduce efficiency and make your system work harder, shortening its lifespan. Also, keep the outdoor condenser unit free of leaves and other debris to keep the system running smoothly.

Seal and Insulate the Air Ducts

As much as 40 percent of the energy typically used for cooling is wasted in poorly sealed and insulated ductwork. By having a professional seal and insulate your air ducts, your system will operate more efficiently, reducing your energy costs.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

When you are away from home, raising the temperature about 5 degrees can not only reduce cooling costs, but it also decreases stress on your air conditioning system. A programmable thermostat makes raising the temperature and returning it to normal easy and automatic.

Minimize Heat Gain

Extra heat in your home adds undue stress to your air conditioner. Close the blinds or shades during the daytime to prevent solar gain, and avoid heat-generating activities like cooking, bathing and washing dishes or clothes until the evening, when it is cooler.

For more tips about extending the life of an HVAC system, talk to our experts at Conditioned Air today, serving Southwest Florida.

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3 Benefits to Having an Ongoing Service Contract

Tuesday, February 14th, 2017

Like any complex system, routine maintenance is the key to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. An HVAC service contract is the ideal way to make sure that your system receives the care that it needs at regular intervals, and it offers several tangible benefits for both you and your HVAC system.

Regular Professional Maintenance

By choosing an HVAC service contract, your system will receive regular maintenance by professionals that are familiar with your system and that you can trust, according to the guidelines recommended by the manufacturer of the system. Not only does this keep your HVAC system operating properly and efficiently, it also protects its warranty and value. Service will be scheduled according to the requirements of the system, and typically includes things like changing the air filter, cleaning the air condioner coils, checking the refrigerant levels and cleaning the air handler.

Lower Energy Costs

With an HVAC service contract, your system will be kept in prime condition, preventing issues like clogged air filters, worn belts and dirty condenser or compressor coils. Such problems can make your system work harder to keep your home comfortable, increasing your energy usage and your utility costs.

Extended Service Life

An HVAC system that receives regular maintenance will last much longer than a system that receives only the minimal amount, and will experience fewer problems over its lifetime. Regular maintenance also helps to reduce long-term repair costs by catching problems early, preventing them from doing further damage to the system and extending its lifespan.

To learn more about the benefits of an HVAC service contract, talk to our professionals at Conditioned Air today. We have HVAC service contracts available for both our residential and our commercial customers, and we offer service throughout the Southwest Florida region, from the Bradenton area to Marco Island, including the communities of Ft. Myers, Sarasota and Naples.

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Common AC Problems in South Florida and What to do About Them

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017

With weather that is quite often hot and humid, a large part of maintaining your Florida home is making sure that your air conditioner is running correctly and efficiently. There are several problems that, as a homeowner, you may be able to solve yourself to avoid an unnecessary service fee.

Frozen Coil

In many cases, a frozen coil is the result of a simple airflow issue. The air filter could be extremely dirty or clogged, or the return ducts could be blocked. Check the air filter and replace it with a new one if necessary, or clean and reinstall it if it’s reusable. Check all the supply and return vents in your home for blockages and clear the obstructions. If the problem remains, the cause may be more serious, such as a refrigerant leak, and you will need professional assistance.

Poor Cooling Performance

If not enough cool air is being delivered into your home, the problem may be a dirty evaporator coil, which is located in or near the air handler. Carefully clean the coil with a soft brush and a vacuum. Also, make sure there is no debris in or around the outdoor condenser unit. If there is, turn off the power, remove large debris by hand and rinse the coil with a garden hose to remove the rest.

System Won’t Turn On

In most cases, this is a simple electrical fault. Reset the breakers that power the air conditioning system, and make sure that the compressor overheat circuit has not been tripped. If this does not fix the problem, or the breakers and safety circuits trip repeatedly, your air conditioner may need professional repairs.

System Cycles On and Off Excessively

This typically happens when the outdoor condenser unit is dirty or its airflow is blocked by vegetation or debris, though it could also be caused by a dirty evaporator coil. Clean both coils and have the system inspected if the problem remains.

For more tips about maintaining your Florida home and its cooling system, talk to our HVAC experts at Conditioned Air, serving the Southwest Florida region.

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Using AC in Fall? When and How to Get the Most From Your AC System

Tuesday, January 17th, 2017

In Southwest Florida, year-round air conditioning use is often a reality, but by taking advantage of the cooler nights and mornings during the fall, you can reduce your energy usage and utility bills. Simply follow these simple A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida to save some money this season.

Use Natural Ventilation

In the cooler mornings or evenings, open your windows and turn on your ventilation system or some fans to bring the cooler air into your home and freshen indoor air. Once it starts to warm up in the afternoon, close the windows to keep the warm air out and close the curtains or blinds on southern windows to keep the heat of the sun at bay.

Adjust Your Thermostat

If you have not already, install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature in your home throughout the day. During cooler mornings or evenings, turn the thermostat up to prevent the air conditioner from running unnecessarily. While you are at work or asleep, raise the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees to save even more money. Finally, during the hottest part of the day, reduce the temperature to remain comfortable.

Change the Air Filter Often

Check the air filter for your air conditioner at least once a month and replace it as necessary. With the windows open to allow fresh air inside, it may become soiled more often, reducing the efficiency of your system. At least once a year, have your air conditioner inspected and maintained by a professional to keep it running at peak efficiency.

Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can help make it feel cooler at higher temperatures, and they are useful throughout the year. While the windows are open, they can help the air circulate through the home, and while the air conditioner is operating, they can help spread the cool air more evenly.

For other handy A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida, talk to our home cooling experts at Conditioned Air. We have been serving Southwest Florida, including the communities of Ft. Myers, Sarasota and Naples, since 1962.

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How to Get the Most from Your Air Conditioner

Wednesday, October 19th, 2016

Even with an efficient air conditioning system, the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida can make it difficult, not to mention expensive, to stay comfortable. Here are a few A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida that can help you stay cool at a reasonable cost:

Have the System Maintained Regularly

Routine maintenance helps your air conditioning system run at peak efficiency, saving energy and money. Have the system professionally inspected at least once a year. By making sure that the air filters are replaced often, the coils are cleaned, the refrigerant is topped off, and the blower motor is cleaned and lubricated, your system will not have to work as hard to keep you comfortable.

Reduce Heat Gain

Any sources of additional heat in your home can make it harder for your air conditioner to cool properly. Minimize heat gain by avoiding activities like cooking, washing dishes, washing clothes or bathing until cooler periods of the day, and add shades or blinds to block the heat of the sun. Locate your air conditioner condenser in a shaded area, if possible, and make sure the attic is vented to draw out excess heat.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Add a programmable thermostat to your system and set it to raise the temperature 5 to 10 degrees while you’re away from home, then reduce it about an hour before you are due to arrive. This can reduce cooling costs by up to 15 percent without sacrificing comfort. Add fans to make it feel cooler, and you may be able to save money by raising the temperature a few degrees.

Seal and Insulate

Many homes in Southwest Florida are poorly insulated. Have your home inspected and add insulation where necessary, especially in the attic, which will help your system cool more efficiently. Use weatherstripping, caulk or spayed foam to seal around windows, doors, pipes, wires and other places where cold air can escape.

To discover more A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida, talk to our home comfort team at Conditioned Air. We have been providing quality A/C services to Southwest Florida since 1962.

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Repair or Replace: Air Conditioner is Blowing Hot Air

Wednesday, October 5th, 2016

When an air conditioner is blowing hot air instead of cool air, it’s not necessarily a sign of a major system failure. In many cases you can repair it yourself, or you may have to call in a professional. Here are a few things to check when your air conditioner is blowing hot air.

Thermostat Settings

Verify that your thermostat is set to cool your home and that the fan is set to “Auto.” When the fan is set to “On,” warmer air may be circulated between cooling cycles.

Breakers

Be sure that the breakers for the system are on — turn them off and then back on if you’re unsure. A tripped breaker can shut down the compressor while still allowing the fan to circulate warm air.

Air Filter

Make sure the air filter is not dirty or clogged. A dirty air filter can reduce airflow, causing the system to shut down and blow warm air.

Outdoor Coil

Make sure that the outdoor condenser coil is not covered or blocked by furniture or other items, and that the coils themselves are not clogged with leaves, grass or small debris. Turn off the power and clean the coils if necessary. A clogged condenser can prevent heat from being properly released.

Indoor Coil

A clogged evaporator coil can cause airflow problems, leading to a frozen coil and the distribution of warm air. If the evaporator coil is accessible, it can be cleaned with a soft brush and a vacuum.

Refrigerant Level

Low refrigerant can also lead to cooling problems. Have a professional check for leaks and proper refrigerant levels.

If these steps have not solved the problem, it may be more serious, such as a major refrigerant leak or a damaged compressor. Have a professional inspect the system and determine the cause. If extensive repairs are required or the air conditioner is over 10 years old, it may be time to replace it.

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, contact our team at Conditioned Air for assistance. We have been serving the Southwest Florida area since 1962.

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Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips for Peak Cooling Season

Wednesday, July 20th, 2016

Between the high temperatures and excessive humidity of the Southwest Florida region, peak cooling season can be difficult on air conditioning equipment, leading to inefficient cooling performance or major system malfunctions. With a bit of simple air conditioner maintenance, you can keep your home comfortable, protect your system, and keep your energy costs under control throughout the summer.

Have Your System Professionally Inspected

Before the peak cooling season starts, it’s good practice to have your system inspected by a professional HVAC technician who will perform routine maintenance like checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning the coils, and replacing the air filter. This will ensure that your system runs as efficiently as possible, in addition to helping prevent problems when the system is operating at full capacity later in the summer.

Change the Air Filter Often

A dirty or restrictive air filter can increase your cooling costs, harm your indoor air quality and cause major system problems. During the cooling season, you should check it at least once a month and replace it when required, or at least every two or three months.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Free of Debris

To operate efficiently, the condenser coil of your air conditioner needs plenty of airflow to dissipate the heat from your home. Keep at least a 2-foot area around the outdoor assembly clear of all debris, including furniture, toys and tall plants. If leaves, grass or other debris accumulate in the coils or system fan, turn off the power and remove the large debris by hand; then rinse the coils with a garden hose to remove smaller debris.

Reduce the Cooling Load

Adding extra heat to your home or the air conditioning system can reduce its cooling performance and increase your cooling costs. Keep the outdoor unit shaded during peak cooling season if possible, and use blinds or shades inside your home to prevent solar gain. Avoid heat-generating activities like cooking, washing clothes or bathing during the afternoon.

For more air conditioner maintenance tips, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air, serving the communities of Southwest Florida, including Naples and Sarasota.

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3 Common Causes of Noisy Air Conditioners

Wednesday, July 13th, 2016

Modern air conditioning systems are relatively quiet, and though some noise is to be expected, any sounds that are new, unusual or that have become louder should be investigated to prevent expensive damage to your system. Three of the most common sources of abnormal sounds include the fan belt, the electrical system, and the compressor, and they should be thoroughly inspected if your air conditioner is noisy or suddenly louder than normal.

Blower Fan Belt

Inside the air handler, especially in a commercial application, a belt connects the blower motor to a squirrel-cage fan, which is used to move air through ducts of your home. Over time, the belt can stretch or begin to crack, and the pulleys on the motor and the fan can lose lubrication or become misaligned. A stretched belt can cause screeching sounds as it slips, and a cracked belt can start thumping as pieces break away. Pulleys that are starved of lubrication or misaligned can begin to whine or screech, as can the blower motor if it’s not properly lubricated. Have the belt adjusted or replaced, if necessary, and check the pulleys and blower motor for proper lubrication and alignment. Failing bearings can also cause this type of noise.

Electrical System

Faulty electrical contacts, relays, and capacitors can cause many strange noises in a system, including clicking as relays or contacts fail to engage properly or buzzing as the start capacitor fails to start the compressor properly. Have the electrical system inspected, cleaning any dirty contacts and replacing burned or faulty components.

Compressor

Problems with the compressor can cause screeching, whining, thumping, buzzing or hissing noises. If it’s hissing, there’s likely a refrigerant leak; and if it’s buzzing, the start capacitor may have failed. Screeching, whining, thumping or other noises may indicate serious problems with the compressor, such as damaged pistons or scrolls, lubrication failure or worn brushes. Have the compressor inspected immediately to avoid unnecessary damage.

If your air conditioner is noisy, talk to our HVAC experts at Conditioned Air today to determine the cause of the problem. We serve the Southwest Florida area, including the communities of Naples and Sarasota.

 

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Summer Air Conditioner Maintenance: It’s Not Too Soon

Wednesday, May 11th, 2016

Summer may seem like it’s a long time away, but it’s never too early to think about summer air conditioner maintenance. By scheduling your summer air conditioner maintenance visit now, you can make sure that your system is completely ready for the hot and humid weather of Southwest Florida. You’ll also avoid your HVAC contractor’s busy season which is often during the early summer when people discover that their air conditioners are not working as expected.

Why Routine Maintenance is Critical

Routine maintenance extends the life of your air conditioning system by eliminating unnecessary causes of major system problems, such as a compressor that overheats and fails due to dust accumulation on the evaporator coil. By performing regular maintenance and correcting small problems that could cause major failures, you not only extend the life of the system, you also ensure that it continues to run efficiently, reducing energy usage, lowering your utility bills and protecting your system’s remaining manufacturer warranty.

What is Done During the Maintenance Visit

The HVAC technician will inspect your system thoroughly, checking for problems such as dirty coils, refrigeration leaks and electrical problems. The technician will then perform routine maintenance, which typically includes cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the blower fan, adjusting the blower motor belt, lubricating the blower motor and pulleys, changing the air filter and inspecting the electrical system. If any problems are found, the technician will recommend possible solutions and perform any repairs that you have agreed to.

What You Can Do Between Visits

There are also several things that you can do between service visits to keep your system running properly. This includes checking your air filter regularly—about once a month—and replacing it when it becomes dirty. You should also keep the supply and return vents free of obstructions, such as furniture or curtains, and keep the area around the condenser coil clean and free of debris.

For more information about summer air conditioner maintenance, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air.

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