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

What Are The Benefits Of NATE Certification?

Tuesday, June 6th, 2017

For homeowners in the Southwest Florida region, an air conditioning system is critical for comfort throughout the year, and it represents one of the most significant investments in the average home. To protect your system and keep it operating properly, you need an experienced, qualified HVAC professional, and with the North American Technician Excellence or NATE certification, you can be sure your technician has the ability and knowledge to do the job properly. For homeowners, the benefits of NATE certification include:

Quality Installations

An air conditioning system that is oversized, undersized or simply not installed properly can have its operating efficiency reduced by up to 30 percent, leading to higher utility costs, as well as the potential for more frequent repairs and maintenance. A NATE certified technician can provide a high-quality installation, with proper load calculations, sizing, system design and equipment installation.

Effective Repairs

NATE certified technicians have the experience and knowledge necessary to quickly diagnose and repair nearly any air conditioner problem, from refrigerant leaks to compressor overheating issues.

Comprehensive Maintenance

Routine maintenance is the key to keeping your air conditioner running efficiently, preventing unnecessary repairs in the future and protecting its warranty. NATE certified technicians can provide complete maintenance services according to the manufacturer’s requirements, ensuring that your system is protected and operating properly.

Longer System Life

With repairs and maintenance performed by a NATE certified professional, your system will receive the care it needs to maximize its potential lifespan, eliminating the costs of premature system replacement.

Energy Savings

Maintenance issues like a clogged air filter or dirty condenser can hinder airflow and heat transfer, reducing cooling efficiency significantly. With your air conditioning system kept in peak condition by a NATE certified HVAC professional, you can keep your energy usage to a minimum.

Improved Comfort

With proper maintenance and repairs, your air conditioner will be able to cool and dehumidify more effectively, provide more balanced airflow and minimize uneven temperatures, improving your comfort.

Contact our team at Conditioned Air today to learn more about the benefits of NATE certification. We serve Southwest Florida, including Bradenton and Naples.

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HVAC Maintenance: How Often Should A/C Coils Be Cleaned?

Tuesday, May 30th, 2017

Your air conditioning system needs clean evaporator and condenser coils to work well. When dirt and debris build up, these coils can’t transfer heat efficiently. This can lead to higher energy use and bigger utility bills. To keep your system running well, clean your A/C coils at least once a year.

Why Clean A/C Coils Are Crucial

Dirty coils can hurt your air conditioning system’s performance. Energy use can increase by up to 30%. This leads to higher bills and other issues, such as:

  • Poor cooling

  • Frozen evaporator coils

  • Overheating compressors, which can lead to costly repairs

Keeping coils clean helps your system run smoothly, lasts longer, and avoids breakdowns.

Simple Steps to Prevent Dirty Coils

You can prevent dirt buildup with some easy steps:

  • Replace Air Filters Regularly: Check your air filter every month. Replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter stops dust from getting on your evaporator coils.

  • Maintain Clear Space Around Condenser: Keep two feet of space around your condenser unit. Remove plants, trash, and tall grass. When mowing, direct clippings away from the unit.

Cleaning the A/C Coils

Evaporator and condenser coils have delicate fins. These can bend and disrupt airflow. You can handle basic cleaning, but a professional should do thorough cleaning and inspection. Aim for professional maintenance twice a year. Some systems may only need annual visits.

In between visits, gently remove larger debris and rinse the condenser coils with a garden hose after turning off the power. Evaporator coils, usually inside and harder to reach, should always be cleaned by a pro.

If you prefer help, contact an experienced handyman service. The team at The Smart Fix Handyman can help with A/C maintenance and other home repairs.

For coil inspection, cleaning, and HVAC maintenance in Bradenton, Naples, and Southwest Florida, reach out to our HVAC professionals at Conditioned Air.

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4 “Do These First” Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Tips

Tuesday, May 23rd, 2017

Air conditioning problems can be inconvenient and uncomfortable even on mild days in Southwest Florida, but in many cases, the cause may be simple, such as airflow problems from a dirty filter or a compressor that overheats on an especially hot day. Before calling a professional, there are a few air conditioner troubleshooting tips that you should try first, possibly saving valuable time and money.

Check for Power

When the air conditioner will not turn on, make sure that the thermostat is set correctly and that it has power, replacing the batteries if necessary. If the thermostat is working, check for tripped breakers, and reset them, even if they are not tripped. This will often reset the control systems or safety systems. If the compressor has an overheat safety switch, reset it, as well.

Check for Airflow Problems

Poor cooling performance or frozen coils could be the result of airflow problems. Check for a dirty air filter and replace it if necessary. Check all vents and ducts for obstructions, such as furniture or curtains that block the vents, or items that have fallen into floor ducts. If the problem remains, check the evaporator and blower fan for dust or dirt accumulations, and carefully clean them with the power off.

Clean the Condenser

Poor cooling performance can also be caused by a dirty condenser outside. Make sure the area around the condenser is free of debris, such as tall grass or lawn furniture. Check the condenser coil for debris, such as leaves and grass, and clean it with a garden hose, if necessary. Make sure the fan spins freely and operates properly.

Clean the Condensate Drain

If you notice water leaking from the air conditioner or it will not turn on, make sure the condensate drain is clean. Some systems will shut down automatically if the drain is clogged. Use a shop vacuum or a thin wire to remove dirt and algae from the drain line.

For more air conditioner troubleshooting tips, talk to our professionals at Conditioned Air today. We have been serving homeowners throughout Southwest Florida since 1962.

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Removing Common Allergy Triggers From Your Home

Tuesday, May 16th, 2017

Indoor air pollutants like dust, mold spores, pet dander and dust mites can make your entire family uncomfortable, but especially those with allergies or asthma. With a bit of extra care and maintenance around your home, you can remove many common allergy triggers and prevent future accumulations.

Have Your HVAC System Serviced

Routine annual, or semi-annual, maintenance of your HVAC system, such as cleaning the evaporator coil, blower fan and air handler cabinet, can reduce the accumulation and distribution of allergy triggers, while also improving system efficiency and extending its lifespan. Between service visits, you should replace the air filter yourself monthly to minimize allergens and dust, and every few years, consider having the ducts cleaned to eliminate any residual accumulations.

Upgrade Your Air Filter

If your air conditioner or heating system has only a basic air filter, it may allow smaller contaminants to pass through. Consider upgrading to a filter with a higher MERV rating for improved air quality or, for the best air filtration, consider electrostatic or HEPA systems.

Control Humidity

Dust mites, mold and other allergens thrive in a moist environment. If your home is excessively humid, consider adding a dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels at 50 percent or lower, and make sure that your air conditioner is sized correctly for your home so that it can dehumidify properly.

Use Hypoallergenic Bedding

Use hypoallergenic mattress covers, sheets, pillows and pillow covers for each bedroom, as well as easily-washable blankets, and clean them weekly. Minimize clutter in the bedroom and use hardwood or vinyl flooring instead of carpet to prevent dust accumulations.

Clean Frequently

Sweep and mop hard-surface floors often, and vacuum carpets at least weekly with a machine that uses a HEPA filter to minimize dust. Dust often using a moist cloth or disposable wipes, and consider adding easily-washable slip covers to keep furniture clean.

Other Options

If allergens are still a problem in your home, consider installing a whole-home air cleaning or ventilation system.

 

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Air Conditioning Basics: A Quick Reference Guide

Tuesday, May 9th, 2017

Air conditioning systems are crucial to comfort in Southwest Florida, and whether you are installing a new system or having one repaired, it is a good idea to know a few air conditioning basics to simplify the process.

How an Air Conditioner Works

Refrigerant enters the evaporator coil indoors as a cool, low-pressure liquid, where it absorbs heat as a fan circulates indoor air over the coil. This boils the refrigerant, turning it into a gas. Exiting the evaporator, the refrigerant enters the compressor, which increases the pressure of the refrigerant, heating it further, and pumps it through the system.

The refrigerant then enters the condenser coil, where it loses heat and cools to a liquid, using a fan that blows outside air over the coils. Finally, the high-pressure, cool liquid flows through an expansion valve, reducing its pressure, and back into the evaporator to repeat the cycle.

Efficiency Rating

One of the most important air conditioning basics to learn about is the SEER or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. This number indicates how much energy is used by the system over a cooling season, with higher numbers indicating more efficient performance and lower cooling costs. Typical models have a SEER of 13 to 16, while the best have a SEER of 20 or above.

Size

The cooling capacity of a central air conditioner is typically rated in tons, or the ability of the system to remove 12,000 British thermal units, or BTUs, of heat per hour. A 5-ton system, for example, would remove 60,000 BTUs of heat. Smaller air conditioners, like window units, may be rated in BTUs alone.

Types

Central air systems feature a condenser unit, a single evaporator and a system of ducts to deliver air. Ductless systems have an evaporator and air handler in each room, connected to a single condenser, eliminating the ducts and simplifying installation. Heat pumps are similar to central air systems, but can be reversed to provide heat, as well.

For more information on air conditioning basics, contact our team at Conditioned Air today. We serve Southwest Florida, from Bradenton to Marco Island.

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3 Easy Ways To Boost Cooling System Efficiency

Tuesday, April 25th, 2017

Once the heat and humidity reach their peak in the Southwest Florida region, it can be difficult to keep your air conditioning costs under control. By taking a few steps to boost cooling system efficiency, however, you can lessen the effects of the higher temperatures and save money, while still remaining comfortable.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

One of the easiest and most effective ways to boost cooling system efficiency is by replacing your older thermostat with a new programmable model, then optimizing it to fit your schedule perfectly. By raising the temperature 10 degrees while you are at work or away, and reducing it just before you arrive home, you can reduce your cooling costs by up to 20 percent. Try to find a model that fits your routine, such as one with a separate program for weekends and weekdays, if you have a standard business schedule, or one with an individual program for each day, if your schedule is more flexible. The newest models offer features like self-programming, Wi-Fi connectivity and touchscreen interfaces that make them simple and convenient to use.

Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, replacing the air filter and cleaning the air handler, can keep your air conditioner running more efficiently and extend its lifespan. Have your system professionally inspected and serviced at least twice a year for the best results, and check the air filter yourself monthly.

Reduce Heat Gain

Adding extra heat during the daytime can make your cooling system work harder to keep you comfortable. Seal and insulate your home to prevent unnecessary heat gain, and close blinds or curtains during the day to block solar gain. Postpone heat-generating activities like bathing, cooking, laundry or washing dishes until the evening, and be sure to use exhaust fans to eliminate extra humidity. Replace inefficient incandescent bulbs with LEDS or fluorescents to save energy and reduce heat output.

For more ways to boost cooling system efficiency, talk to our experts at Conditioned Air, serving Ft. Myers, Naples and Sarasota since 1962.

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Does Rain Affect My Air Conditioning Unit?

Tuesday, April 18th, 2017

In Bradenton and the surrounding Southwest Florida area, heavy rains are common, especially as tropical storms or hurricanes approach. If you have ever wondered “Does rain affect my air conditioning unit,” the short answer is “No.” In most cases, rain is safe for your air conditioning system, though there are some exceptions, and a few precautions to take during strong storms.

The Effects of Rain on Your Air Conditioning

The outside portion of a central air conditioning system, known as the outdoor unit or condenser unit, houses both the condenser and the compressor, as well as a system fan, electrical connections and other accessories. Most of the components are made from aluminum, copper, plastics and other materials that are not prone to corrosion or damage from moisture, and the electrical connections are sealed, allowing the system to run properly even in heavy rain.

Only during heavy flooding, when the condenser is partially or completely submerged, should you shut the air conditioning system off, which can be done using the breakers in your main electrical panel. If the system is submerged for a significant period of time, have it inspected by an air conditioning contractor before tuning it back on.

Should the Condenser be Covered?

In most cases, the condenser unit should never be covered. Rain cannot harm the condenser, as long as the moisture can evaporate freely, and neither can the cooler weather of a Florida winter. In colder climates, some people cover the condenser during the winter to prevent accumulations of snow, leaves and debris, but it is not necessary. In fact, it can actually cause damage by trapping condensation beneath the cover, leading to corrosion and other damage.

The only time that you should cover the condenser is during extremely strong storms, such as hurricanes, to prevent damage from wind-blown debris. For this purpose, something strong, like plywood, should be secured with the power off, and it should be removed immediately after the storm. Otherwise, simply keep the condenser free of debris, and rinse the dirt out periodically.

When you have questions like “Does rain affect my air conditioning unit” or if you need air conditioning service, contact our team at Conditioned Air for helpful answers and HVAC advice.

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Is a Heat Pump Upgrade The Right Choice? Key Points To Consider

Tuesday, April 11th, 2017

Heat pumps are a great way to provide energy-efficient cooling in Southwest Florida, and many models can provide heating as well, for the rare chilly day. If you are thinking about replacing your current system with a newer, more energy-efficient model, there are a few things to consider prior to your heat pump upgrade.

The Condition of Your Current System

If your system is more than 15 years old, requires frequent repairs or has major problems like a failing compressor or blower motor, a heat pump upgrade may be well worth the cost, especially if it has a seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, of 12 or less. If your system is younger and in relatively good operating condition, it may be more cost-effective to wait for a few more years, until the operating and repair costs become excessive.

Heat Pump Efficiency Improvements

Many older heat pumps were rated at less than 12 or even 10 SEER. Today’s models are often rated at 14 to 16 SEER, and the most efficient models earn a rating of over 23 SEER. With energy-saving design improvements like variable-speed scroll compressors, two-speed or variable speed blower motors, and better coil designs, the latest heat pumps can reduce your cooling costs significantly.

New Comfort Technologiespgrade, talk to our team at Conditioned Air, serving the Naples, Ft. Myers and Sarasota areas since 1962.

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How To Determine The Best A/C Equipment For Your Home

Tuesday, April 4th, 2017

If you are considering a new air conditioner for your Southwest Florida home, determining the best A/C equipment for your needs can be difficult. There are several types of systems, differences in cooling efficiency and a variety of features. Here are a few tips for determining the best A/C equipment for your home:

System Type

A conventional central air conditioner offers cooling only, with an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor air handler that delivers conditioned air though a system of ducts. A heat pump looks and operates similar to a central air conditioner, but it is reversible, allowing it to also provide heating. Ductless mini split systems feature an individual air handler for each room or zone, connected to an exterior condenser, and they are available with cooling only, or both cooling and heating. If you have ducts installed, either a central air conditioner or a heat pump would be a good choice. For homes without ducts or for a single room, a ductless system can be more cost-effective. If you require both heating and cooling, a heat pump or a ductless system would be the best choice.

Energy Efficiency

Air conditioners are classified by their SEER rating, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. A higher number means greater energy efficiency, with systems typically ranging from 14 SEER to over 20. By paying a bit more initially for an efficient system, you can earn that money back over its lifetime through reduced cooling costs. For systems that offer heating, look for an HSPF, or heating seasonal performance factor, of higher than 8 for the best energy efficiency.

Features

Optional features like multiple-speed compressors and blower motors provide more consistent cooling and quieter operation. Zoning systems enable the temperature in each zone to be controlled independently, allowing you to reduce cooling in unused rooms and save money. Wi-Fi thermostats allow for easy programming and increased energy savings. Select a system with the features that are best for your needs and your budget.

Just contact Conditioned Air for all your options.

 

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Ductless Heating And Cooling: A Handy Reference

Tuesday, March 28th, 2017

In a conventional HVAC system, as much as 30 percent of the energy used for heating and cooling is wasted, due to leaking or inadequately-insulated ductwork. A better alternative, especially for homes without an existing HVAC system, may be a ductless heating and cooling system. By placing the air handler directly in the room to be heated or cooled, and eliminating the air ducts, a ductless heating and cooling system can be far more efficient and easier to install. Before installing a ductless system, there are a few things to consider.

Installation Process

Ductless or mini split systems consist of an outdoor condenser and compressor unit, one or more interior air handlers that contain and air filter, evaporator and fan, plus a conduit that connects the two halves. The air handlers are available in a variety of styles, including floor-level, wall and ceiling-mounted models, and a conduit containing the refrigerant and electrical lines connects each air handler to the condenser through a small 3 to 4-inch opening in a wall or ceiling. Ductless systems require minimal remodeling to install, and are perfect for homes or additions that lack a complete cooling and heating system.

SEER and HSPF Ratings

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, and represents the amount of electricity used for a cooling season. Ductless systems typically have a SEER from 16 to 20 or more, with higher ratings indicting greater efficiency. The HSPF, or heating seasonal performance factor, measures the electricity used for a heating season, with average systems receiving ratings of 7 to 8, and high-efficiency models receiving an 8 or above. By investing in a more efficient system, you will reduce your long-term utility costs.

Single or Multiple-Zone Systems

Some ductless heating and cooling systems serve one room or area only, while larger systems have an upgraded condenser and typically up to 5 air handlers to provide whole-home heating and cooling with independent temperature controls for each zone.

To learn more about ductless heating and cooling systems, talk to our team at Conditioned Air, serving Southwest Florida, including the Sarasota and Ft. Myers areas.

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