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

New Innovations in Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Wednesday, November 4th, 2015

One of the easiest ways to add a cooling system to an existing home is by installing a ductless mini split air conditioning system. Unlike central air conditioners, these systems do not require a duct system and they use only a small conduit to connect the indoor and outdoor portions. Today’s ductless mini split systems are extremely efficient and offer many great innovations and features.

Variable-Speed Compressors

In many conventional air conditioners, the compressor runs at a single speed, and can only switch on when the temperature becomes too high, and switch off when the desired temperature is met. This can be inefficient and cause excess wear on the system’s compressor and other components, while creating unnecessary temperature swings between cycles. Variable-speed inverter compressors can run at any speed, allowing the system to adjust the cooling capacity precisely to the current conditions, which increases the system’s efficiency and keeps your home comfortable regardless of the temperature outside.

Variable-Speed System Fans

Like the variable speed-compressor, variable speed fans on the condenser and evaporator coils allow the system to better adjust the cooling capacity to current conditions, and they reduce the energy usage of the system. In addition, when the evaporator fan is allowed to run at slower speeds, it makes the system much quieter and reduces noise levels in the room where the indoor unit is installed.

Efficient Coil Designs

Specially designed coils maximize the heat-transfer surface and increase the efficiency of the transfer process. Improved R-410 refrigerant also helps increase the efficiency of the coils, while protecting the environment.

Improved Control Systems

Efficient control systems use multiple sensors to detect current conditions and adjust the output accordingly. Advanced remote controls allow you to control your ductless mini split air conditioning system from a distance, and some systems can even be controlled remotely from the Internet.

With all these advances, today’s ductless mini split air conditioning systems are about twice as efficient as older models. To learn more about mini split systems, contact our team at Conditioned Air today. We serve Southwest Florida, including the Sarasota, Ft. Myers and Naples areas.

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Air Conditioner Freezing Up? This Could Be Why

Wednesday, October 28th, 2015

One of the most common air conditioning problems in South Florida is a frozen evaporator coil, which happens when the evaporator coil cannot absorb heat correctly and its temperature drops below freezing, turning any condensed moisture on the coil into ice. Not only does this prevent the system from cooling properly, it can also cause permanent damage to certain components. To get the system running properly, you will have to determine the cause, correct it and thaw the coil.

Airflow Problems

In many cases, poor airflow can prevent the coil from absorbing the heat in your home, allowing it to freeze up. Reductions in airflow can be triggered by a dirty or clogged air filter, an obstructed supply or return duct, or problems with the blower fan. Replace the air filter, if necessary, and check your air ducts for obstructions. Make sure none of the vents are covered by furniture, curtains or other items. Check the blower fan and make sure that it is relatively clean and operating correctly, and that its belt is not damaged or slipping.

Dirty Evaporator Coil

Household dust, pet hair and other debris can accumulate on the evaporator coil over time and prevent it from absorbing heat properly. If your evaporator coil is excessively dirty, allow it to thaw, then clean it gently using a soft brush and a vacuum cleaner, being careful to not bend any of the delicate cooling fins.

Refrigerant Problems

Low refrigerant levels, leaks or a clog in the lines can also cause major air conditioning problems like freezing. To correct a refrigerant problem, or any other serious issue, you will need to call a professional.

Thawing the Coils

To thaw the evaporator coils, turn off power to the system and allow the ice to melt naturally. To speed things up a hair dryer or heat gun can be used in a pinch, but never use tools to remove ice, as they may damage the refrigerant lines.

For help with your air conditioning problems, call our cooling experts at Conditioned Air. We serve Ft. Meyers, Naples, Sarasota and the surrounding areas.

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Quick Guide for Troubleshooting Your AC Unit

Wednesday, October 21st, 2015

An air conditioner that isn’t working properly can be a cause for concern, but it shouldn’t make you panic. Sometimes a few simple troubleshooting steps can let you resolve the problem and get the system working again without the need to call for repair. Here are a few things to look for when troubleshooting air conditioner problems and A/C noises.

A/C Doesn’t Work

  • Check the power supply to the air conditioner and make sure it is plugged in and receiving power.
  • See if the circuit breaker controlling the A/C has tripped. Reset the breaker and see if the air conditioner comes on. If the A/C unit keeps tripping the breaker, there may be an electrical problem that needs to be fixed.
  • Make sure all vents and registers are open and free of blockages from furniture, boxes, clothing, or other objects that could restrict airflow.
  • Make sure the thermostat is working and that the temperature and operational settings are appropriate for the season. Change the batteries in the thermostat if necessary.

A/C Noises

  • Rattling or clattering noises coming from your air conditioner could be the result of an access panel or other cover being loose.
  • If you detect new or unusual A/C noises, give the system a short period of time to operate and see if the noises continue.

A/C Produces No Cool Air

  • If the fan is working, make sure that the system hasn’t been set to fan-only operation. Set the system to “cool” if necessary.
  • Listen to make sure the compressor is working and that coolant is being circulated through the system.
  • Check the HVAC system ductwork to ensure that there are not damaged or missing sections and that all sections are fitted tightly together. Each connection should also be sealed with mastic, a specialized sealant, or with metal tape.

Conditioned Air helps the residents of Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Naples, Bradenton, and the surrounding Florida communities keep their air conditioners working properly and reliably. Contact us today for more information on troubleshooting air conditioning problems and A/C noises when your cooling system isn’t working the way it should.

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The End of R22: What it Means for Your Old Air Conditioner

Wednesday, October 14th, 2015

Florida homeowners with older air conditioning systems may soon be facing a difficult choice: replace their entire air conditioning system or continue to pursue increasingly costly and hard-to-find R22 refrigerant when it’s time for AC serivce. Standards for types of refrigerants used in air conditioning repair and maintenance are changing, and this means that this most common and least expensive refrigerant will soon be phased out. When the phase-out is complete in 2020, R22 refrigerant will no longer be available.

R22 refrigerant, sometimes known as R22 Freon or HCFC-22 Freon, is an environmental danger because it contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. The U.S. government has placed restrictions on R22 and has issued the requirement that R22 refrigerant must be eliminated from use in cooling systems by the year 2020. At this point, R22 will no longer be manufactured and cannot be used as a refrigerant in new air conditioning systems. R22 is being replaced by R-410A, a safer material which is the current, compliant standard refrigerant in air conditioning equipment.

The refrigerant change means several things for homeowners with older ACs:

  • You can continue to use R22 refrigerant in existing systems, but it will only be available through after-market sales, such as when it is recovered from older systems that have been salvaged.
  • Prices of R22 refrigerant have been rising and are expected to continue to rise. By the time the phase-out is complete, R22 will most likely be very expensive.
  • Availability of R22 will be limited since it cannot be purchased new. Even if you need a recharge of R22 in the future, there can be no guarantee that the refrigerant will be available.
  • Complete air conditioning system replacement to an R422 model may be the most cost-effective solution.

Conditioned Air has the mission of keeping the residents of Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Naples, Bradenton, and the surrounding Florida communities cool and their air conditioners working properly and reliably. Contact us today for more information on the types of refrigerants used in air conditioning system maintenance and what the new refrigerant changes will mean for your cooling system.

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3 Benefits of a Whole-House Air Filtration System

Tuesday, September 29th, 2015

The quality of your Southwest Florida home’s indoor air is just as important as the air quality outdoors. Considering how 90 percent of an average person’s time is spent indoors, it pays to have an effective way of keeping your home’s indoor air healthy. Fortunately, a whole-house air filtration system offers the perfect solution to your indoor air quality concerns.

Whole-house air filtration systems are designed to tackle airborne pollutants that come from inside and outside of your home through a wide variety of methods. For example, many air filtration systems use HEPA filters and ultraviolet (UV) lamps to capture and neutralize an array of pollutants, including microorganisms and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from common household sprays.

To understand how whole-house air filters can benefit your home, consider these three pieces of information:

  1. As the name implies, a whole-house air filtration system takes care of the entire home. Most portable air filters can only handle one or two rooms, at most. This makes buying a whole-house system a more cost-effective investment than buying multiple portable units.
  2. Whole-house air filters can also extend the life of your heating and cooling system by reducing the prevalence of dust and other airborne particles throughout the system. A cleaner HVAC system offers better performance and greater longevity.
  3. Whole-house air filters have the added benefit of being able to purify your home’s air without being seen or heard. By integrating filtration systems neatly into the existing HVAC, they’re able to operate with little to no noise.

With a whole-house air filtration system, you’ll be able to enjoy cleaner, healthier indoor air, with the peace of mind that comes in knowing that your whole-house air filters are more effective at capturing airborne pollutants than most ordinary air filters.

To learn more about how whole house air filters can benefit your home, or if you need air conditioning repair in Southwest Florida, contact the professionals at Conditioned Air today.

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Best Practices for Air Conditioner Maintenance

Tuesday, September 15th, 2015

The air conditioner in your home or business means more to you than comfort on hot Florida days. It also represents an investment of hundreds, perhaps thousands of dollars in equipment that should give you years of reliable service. The best way to ensure your cooling system works at its best for as long as possible is through regular preventive maintenance. Here are some useful best practices for air conditioner maintenance and some reasons why you should consider a maintenance service agreement.

  • Check the filters: The filters in your air conditioner help clean the air moving through your cooling system and into your indoor spaces. They also contribute to the airflow needed to ensure the equipment operates properly. Dirty, clogged air filters are a major contributor to cooling system malfunctions and breakdowns. Check these filters at least once a month and change them when they get dirty.
  • Ensure proper airflow: The conditions surrounding the outside unit of your air conditioning system also affect system airflow. Make sure that grass, weeds, hedges, tree limbs, and other vegetation is trimmed away from the outside unit to provide plenty of clearance for proper airflow. Remove mud, dirt, leaves, sticks, and other material from the cabinet vents.
  • Hire a professional: Almost anyone can change an air conditioner filter, but when it comes to the more complex technical elements of preventive maintenance, always hire a professional HVAC technician. Your HVAC expert will be able to evaluate the performance and condition of your cooling system and make necessary adjustments and minor repairs that will improve performance and extend the equipment’s lifespan.
  • Purchase a maintenance service agreement: Sometimes called a service contract, a maintenance service agreement provides for an agreed-upon schedule of maintenance services from your HVAC service provider. Your HVAC company will schedule maintenance visits for you. Many service agreements also provide benefits such as discounts and expedited service.

Conditioned Air serves residential and commercial air conditioning customers in Ft. Myers, Naples, Bradenton, and Sarasota. Contact us today for more information on air conditioner maintenance and to find out more about our maintenance service agreement plans.

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Picking the Right HVAC Contractor: What You Need to Know

Tuesday, September 8th, 2015

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 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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3 Signs You May Need to Upgrade Your Air Conditioning Unit

Tuesday, September 1st, 2015

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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Did You Know Our Ductless Air Conditioners Save Energy?

Wednesday, July 15th, 2015

Considering Southwest Florida’s warm climate, you might already know a little about how convenient ductless mini-split systems are for keeping cool. What you might not know, however, is how ductless air conditioners save energy.

No Ducts Means Less Waste

Air ducts can lose cooled and heated air through leaks. Sealing the duct joints helps, but even after a thorough professional sealing job, the ducts will still lose a small amount of air. That loss adds up over the day. Ducts in unconditioned areas, such as the attics, are affected by the temperature of the surrounding air. For example, a hot attic warms cool air passing through the ducts. Although insulation helps, some waste inevitably occurs.

To understand how ductless air conditioning systems save energy, you’ll need to know how they differ from conventional ducted systems. Instead of using ducts to carry air from a central air handler to your rooms, ductless systems use air handlers on the walls, ceilings or floors to deliver conditioned air directly into your rooms.

Nothing leaks out so you receive all the air the system conditions. The air reaches you without having warmed up in the ducts, so you don’t have to adjust your thermostat to compensate for energy loss.

Precision Control Helps You Save

One ductless system outdoor unit can run up to four indoor air handlers. Each air handler can be independently controlled so you can lower the temperature setting on the air handlers in your hottest rooms, while raising the setting in areas that need less cooling.

You’ll no longer have to set the thermostat low on your whole air conditioning system just to achieve a comfortable temperature in one particular area of the house. This precision control reduces the load on your system, allowing it to use less energy so your cooling expenses fall. Better yet, you’ll also enjoy more even temperatures throughout the house, including in those areas that have always been hard to keep cool enough.

If you think a ductless system might be right for your home, contact us at Conditioned Air anywhere around Southwest Florida.

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Headed out on a Vacation? Save Energy While You’re Away

Wednesday, July 15th, 2015

Heading out for summer vacation can be an exciting time for every member of your family. However, one thing you don’t want to have to worry about during vacation time is whether or not your energy bills are being unnecessarily increased by wasting energy at home. Here are some practical tips for how to save energy during summer vacation so you can enjoy your time away.

  • Use your programmable thermostat:Use your programmable thermostat and its pre-programmed set points to reduce the operation of your cooling system while you’re away. The thermostat can be set to provide a small amount cooling during the day so that the interior of your home doesn’t get too hot. It can automatically shut cooling down even more at night while you’re away.
  • Unplug energy-using appliances and devices:Before leaving for vacation, make sure to unplug appliances and devices that use standby energy. These can include computers, microwave ovens, stoves, televisions, and entertainment systems. Simply shutting them off will not be enough since they use small amounts of energy to maintain clocks, internal settings, and other features even when turned off. Unplug them completely or plug them all into a power strip that can be switched off when you leave.
  • Turn down the water heater:While you’re away on vacation, you won’t need hot water at home, so turning down the temperature settings on the water heater makes sense. Set the thermostat at well below the usual level or, if you are going to be gone for an extended period, shut the water heater off completely.
  • Close window blinds and curtains:Partially closing window blinds and curtains will help reduce sunshine getting into your home and increasing indoor temperatures. This will help keep the inside of your home cooler and prevent your air conditioner or heat pump from switching on unnecessarily.

For more than 53 years, Conditioned Air has been providing expert heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services to customers in Naples and throughout the surrounding communities in southwest Florida. Contact us today for more information on how to save energy during summer vacation.

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