Conditioned Air Wins Again

November 8th, 2018

CONDITIONED AIR EARNS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Conditioned Air Co. of Naples received the Southern Business Unit (SBU) Outstanding Achievement Award on Oct. 29 at the at the Mitsubishi Diamond Dealer Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. The company was one of three Florida firms to earn the honor and the only one from Naples to Sarasota. The SBU Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes Conditioned Air as the largest heating, ventilation and air-conditioning company in its market, utilizing state-of-the-art inverter-driven intelligent systems as the future of the industry and home automation. Based in Naples, Conditioned Air has more than 375 employees serving Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Sarasota and Manatee counties.

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4 Signs You Need a New HVAC System

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. For homeowners seeking both energy-efficient cooling and heating, heat pumps are a versatile option to consider when thinking about a new ac installation. Is it time to upgrade your AC system?

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. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your current system, there are several signs it’s time to replace your HVAC unit.

Introduction to HVAC Replacement

Replacing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a major decision that can greatly impact your home’s comfort, energy bills, and long-term performance. Whether your old system is no longer keeping up or you’re building a new home, understanding the air conditioning installation process helps you feel confident every step of the way.

Professional installation ensures compliance with local building codes and safety standards, and in Naples, a building permit is required for any HVAC replacement or installation.

A new air conditioning system is more than just an upgrade, it’s an investment in year-round comfort and energy efficiency. Professional air conditioner installation involves a series of important steps, starting with the removal of your old system and continuing through the careful setup of the new outdoor unit, installation of a new service disconnect box, and making all necessary electrical connections. Each part of the process must meet the latest National Electrical Code standards to ensure safety and reliability.

When removing the old system, EPA-certified personnel use specialized equipment and a recovery tank to safely remove refrigerant in compliance with environmental regulations.

Before installation begins, your HVAC company will prepare the area where the new air conditioning unit will be installed, which may include leveling the ground with a gravel base and installing a new pad for stability and vibration reduction.

During installation, the new line set, often a copper line set consisting of two copper lines (the larger insulated suction line and the smaller liquid line) or copper tubing, is connected between the outdoor condenser and the indoor coil. These copper lines may be pressure tested for leaks, protected with copper strapping, and routed under floor joists or even buried underground, depending on the home’s layout. Dry nitrogen is used during brazing to protect the copper lines and tubing, and heat protection is applied to prevent damage to the service valve and expansion valve.

For the indoor coil installation, the coil is placed in an insulated cabinet with proper access, connected and sealed to the existing sheet metal plenum, and installed with the proper distance from the furnace heat exchanger and drain pan to prevent melting or freezing issues.

All electrical connections, including the installation of an electrical disconnect, are carefully completed to meet code requirements. The thermostat is also upgraded or replaced to ensure seamless control of your new system.

The condensate drain line is installed using condensate tubing, and if a floor drain is unavailable, a condensate pump is added. A safety overflow switch is wired to the furnace control to prevent flooding in case of blockage or overflow.

A filter drier is installed in the refrigerant circuit to absorb moisture and protect the system from corrosion and failure.

Once everything is in place, the installer will perform a vacuum process to remove moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant lines, followed by a preliminary leak test and thorough system testing as part of professional installation. This commissioning process ensures your new air conditioner is operating efficiently and safely from day one.

The timeframe for installing a new air conditioning system typically ranges from 1 to 2 days, depending on various factors. After installation, the cleanup process involves removing all debris and ensuring the area is left in the same condition as before. Professional installation typically includes a warranty covering parts and labor, providing long-term protection.

Proper installation is key to getting the most out of your new air conditioning system. When installed correctly, your new air conditioner will deliver consistent cooling, lower energy costs, and improved indoor air quality. Features like variable speed fans and smart thermostats can further enhance comfort and help manage energy bills, especially in open floor plans or larger homes.

Choosing a reputable HVAC company with experienced technicians is crucial for a successful air conditioning installation. DIY installation can result in improper sizing and placement of the AC unit, leading to inefficiency and potential system issues. Hiring experienced technicians can lead to lower energy bills and fewer breakdowns, as they are trained to handle refrigerants safely, a legal requirement, and ensure all steps are performed to code.

There are several types of systems available, including central air conditioners (the most common), ductless mini-split systems for additions or homes without ductwork, heat pumps for both cooling and heating, packaged air conditioners, zoned HVAC systems for independent temperature control, and mobile home AC units designed for smaller spaces.

In Naples, all new or replaced AC units must be screened from view with approved fencing or landscaping, and it’s important to select a properly sized unit with a high SEER2 rating (minimum 14.3) for effective humidity management and energy savings in Florida’s climate.

The cost for new AC installation in Naples typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on system size, efficiency rating, brand, and installation complexity. Financing options and warranties are available to make your investment more affordable and secure.

To protect your investment and maintain peak performance, regular maintenance is essential. Comprehensive maintenance plans often include regular tune-ups and inspections, and failure to maintain your system according to manufacturer guidelines can void your warranty. Routine care helps your new air conditioning system deliver reliable comfort and energy savings for years to come.

Signs Your Heating and Air System Needs Replacement

  • Your system is over 10–15 years old
  • Frequent repairs are needed to stay operational
  • Energy bills have increased significantly
  • Uneven heating or cooling throughout the home
  • Strange noises or odors are coming from the unit

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. Even tasks like cleaning your AC coils might not be enough if the core components are failing.

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 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!

Choosing the Right AC Unit

Selecting the ideal air conditioning system for your home is a decision that can have a lasting impact on your comfort and energy bills. The right air conditioner should be tailored to your home’s size, layout, and unique cooling needs. An AC unit that’s too small will struggle to keep your space comfortable, while one that’s too large can lead to unnecessary energy costs and uneven cooling. That’s why it’s important to work with a knowledgeable ac installer who can evaluate your home and recommend the most efficient new ac unit for your situation.

Beyond just square footage, factors like insulation, window placement, and even your family’s lifestyle play a role in determining the best air conditioning system. Modern systems offer a range of features, from advanced filtration to smart controls, allowing you to customize your comfort and manage energy bills more effectively. By investing in the right system from the start, you’ll enjoy reliable air conditioning, lower maintenance needs, and peace of mind knowing your new ac is built to last.

Benefits of New Air Conditioning

Upgrading to a new air conditioning system brings a host of advantages that go beyond just cooling your home. Today’s ac systems are engineered for maximum energy efficiency, which means you’ll notice a significant reduction in your energy bills right from the start. Enhanced comfort is another major benefit, new air conditioners maintain more consistent temperatures and humidity levels, creating a healthier and more enjoyable indoor environment.

A new air conditioning system can also boost your property’s value and appeal, thanks to quieter operation and improved indoor air quality. Features like advanced filtration and humidity control help deliver cleaner, fresher new air throughout your home. Plus, with the latest technology, your new ac system is designed for long-term performance, requiring less frequent repairs and offering greater reliability. Investing in a new air conditioning system is a smart move for your comfort, your wallet, and your home’s future.

Air Conditioner Installation Process

A professional air conditioner installation is essential for ensuring your new system operates safely and efficiently. The process begins with the removal of your old system, making way for the new air conditioning system to be installed. Your ac installer will carefully prepare the site, ensuring the new outdoor unit is placed on a stable surface and that all necessary electrical connections are made according to code, including the installation of a service disconnect box and low voltage wiring.

Once the outdoor unit is in place, the installer will connect the refrigerant lines and ensure all components are properly integrated with your home’s existing infrastructure. The air conditioner installation also includes a thorough check of the system’s performance, with tests to verify that the air conditioning is running smoothly and efficiently. Your installer will walk you through the operation of your new system and provide tips for ongoing maintenance, so you can enjoy reliable comfort and peace of mind from day one.

Financing and Special Offers for New AC Units

Investing in a new air conditioning system doesn’t have to strain your budget. Many HVAC companies offer flexible financing options, rebates, and special promotions to make purchasing a new ac unit more accessible. These programs can help spread out the cost of your new ac, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a modern, energy-efficient system without a large upfront expense.

Be sure to ask your ac installer about current financing plans and any available discounts or manufacturer incentives when considering a new air conditioning system. Taking advantage of these offers can make it easier to upgrade to a new ac unit and start saving on energy bills right away. With the right support and honest pricing, you can bring new air and comfort to your home while keeping your investment manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are some early signs that my HVAC system may need to be replaced?
 Answer: Some common early signs include an older unit (especially 8+ years), rising energy bills, frequent repairs, loud or unusual noises, and declining indoor air quality. These symptoms suggest your system may no longer be running efficiently and replacement might be more cost effective than continued repairs.

Question: Why does the age of an HVAC system matter when considering replacement?
 Answer: As HVAC systems age, they tend to become less efficient, parts wear out, and repair costs climb. Many professionals suggest that once a unit starts reaching about 10 to 15 years (or even as early as 8 years depending on usage), replacement becomes more practical.

Question: How do unusual noises or sounds factor into HVAC replacement decisions?
 Answer: Unusual sounds such as squealing, grinding, rattling, or banging may indicate that critical components like motors or fans are failing. If such noises persist despite maintenance or repairs, they often signal the system is nearing the end of its useful life.

Question: Can poor indoor air quality be a reason to replace an HVAC system?
 Answer: Yes. A system that’s old or poorly maintained may circulate dust, allergens, excess humidity, or even mold. While duct repairs or filter changes might help, sometimes the system itself is the root cause and replacement could restore healthier air quality.

Question: How should I decide between repairing my HVAC system and replacing it entirely?
 Answer: Consider factors like the system’s age, frequency and cost of repairs, rising energy bills, and performance issues (like inadequate heating or cooling). If the system is old, inefficient, requiring frequent expensive fixes, replacing may provide better value and comfort long term.

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PREPARE TO SAVE ENERGY THIS FALL IN FLORIDA

October 1st, 2018

With the mild weather of fall coming, now is the perfect time to make a few improvements around your home. If you are suffering from high utility bills, here are four easy ways that you can reduce energy consumption in your Southwest Florida home:

Have Your HVAC System Serviced

Things like clogged air filters, poorly-lubricated blower motors and dirty condenser or evaporator coils can make your HVAC system work harder than necessary to keep you comfortable, increasing your energy consumption and utility bills. To save energy and extend the life of your system, have an HVAC professional inspect it and perform any routine maintenance that may be required. After the visit, check the air filter often and change it as necessary to keep your system running efficiently.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

By adjusting the temperature in your home while you are at work or asleep, you can reduce the energy consumption of your HVAC system by as much as 10 percent. A programmable thermostat is the easy way to do this, as it can automatically adjust the temperature, then return it to normal so that your home is comfortable when you come back from work or wake up. In warm weather raise the temperature 10 to 15 degrees, and in cool weather reduce it.

Seal and Insulate Your Home

Air leaks can significantly increase energy usage in any season by allowing conditioned air to escape and outside air to enter.. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal around drafty windows or doors, and use caulk or expanding foam insulation to seal penetrations made for pipes, cables, dryer vents and other openings in your exterior walls. Have your insulation levels checked, especially in the floors, walls and attic, and add more if necessary.

Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature

Many water heaters are set to 140 degrees or higher from the factory, which not only wastes energy but also may cause scalding. A setting of 120 degrees can reduce your costs, while still providing plenty of hot water.

For more ways to reduce energy consumption, talk to our HVAC professionals at Conditioned Air today.

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SICK OF RED TIDE? HERE’S 3 BENEFITS OF A WHOLE-HOUSE AIR FILTRATION SYSTEM

September 18th, 2018

It has been a rough summer dealing with Red Tide here in Southwest Florida. Just remember 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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DEALING WITH INDOOR ALLERGY ISSUES THIS YEAR? YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

September 5th, 2018

As summer rolls on in Southwest Florida area and both the temperature and humidity rise, many people will be spending the majority of time indoors comforted by air conditioning. This can present problems for those with allergies, as indoor allergy issues will become more prevalent. There are, however, several steps that you can take to successfully cope with indoor allergy issues during the summer.

Keep Doors and Windows ClosedWhen pollen counts are high, it’s best to keep your windows and doors closed and use the air conditioning as much as possible to avoid unnecessary allergens. This is especially true in the early morning hours — from about 5:00 to 10:00 a.m. — when pollen counts tend to be the highest.

Avoid Bringing Allergens Inside

When you do work outside during the summer, such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the yard, pollen, dust and other allergens can easily hitch a ride indoors on your clothing. To avoid adding extra allergens to your indoor air, change your clothes and take a shower after the job is finished and wash your work clothes often.

Clean Often

Minimize the accumulation of allergens by vacuuming and dusting often, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and either moist or electrostatic cloths. Install hypoallergenic sheets, pillowcases and mattress covers in each bedroom, and wash them at least once a week. Reduce clutter throughout your home and reduce the number of surfaces that can collect dust and allergens.

Keep Your HVAC System Maintained

Have your HVAC system professionally inspected and cleaned twice a year to prevent system problems and reduce dust accumulation. Check the air filters monthly and replace them as necessary, and upgrade to filters with higher MERV ratings for better air filtration. Consider installing a whole-home air cleaner or ventilation system to improve indoor air quality and to reduce the amount of allergens and dust in your home.

For more suggestions about coping with summer indoor allergy issues, talk to our air quality experts at Conditioned Air. We have been serving the Southwest Florida region since 1962 including Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch.

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TOP 4 AIR CONDITIONER TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS-TRY THESE FIRST!

August 24th, 2018

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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DEHUMIDIFICATION: THE KEY TO SUMMER HOME COMFORT

August 20th, 2018

In areas of high humidity, such as Southwest Florida, controlling the amount of moisture in the air is as critical to your comfort as controlling the temperature. In many areas, air conditioning alone is enough to maintain comfortable humidity levels. But in more humid areas, or in homes with poor ventilation, additional dehumidification may be necessary.

How Humidity Affects Comfort

In the summer, a hot day with low humidity feels much cooler than a similar day with high humidity. This is because the humid air prevents sweat from evaporating, interfering with your body’s natural cooling system and leaving your skin feeling sticky and uncomfortable. High humidity can also make it harder to breathe for those with allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses, and it can encourage the growth and reproduction of bacteria, mold, mildew, dust mites and other irritants. By maintaining healthy humidity levels of 50 percent or lower, you can make your home much more comfortable and avoid moisture-related problems.

How to Improve Dehumidification

Any home with a properly-sized, well-maintained air conditioning system and decent ventilation should be able to control humidity sufficiently in all but the most humid areas. If a home lacks proper ventilation, however, moisture from cooking, bathing, washing dishes, and fuel-burning appliances can accumulate, increasing humidity levels. Likewise, an air conditioner that’s oversized and doesn’t run long enough to properly dehumidify will leave moisture in the air; and if vents are blocked, the air filter is dirty or there are other maintenance problems, it may make the problem worse.

To improve dehumidification, make sure your home is properly ventilated, that your air conditioner is sized correctly, and that it is professionally maintained annually. If you live in an excessively humid area or still have moisture problems, then you may want to consider installing a whole-home dehumidification system to supplement your air conditioner.

To learn more about dehumidification systems and how they can improve your comfort, talk to our experts at Conditioned Air. Our team can help solve your humidity problems throughout the Southwest Florida area, including Naples, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Ft. Myers.

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Florida: Save Money on your Electric Bill This Summer

August 10th, 2018

Check out the infographic for stats and tips on how to save money on your electric bill this summer in Southwest Florida. In Sarasota, Bradenton, Naples or Fort Myers, Conditioned Air is here to keep you cool all summer long. If you have any further questions about how to save energy this summer in florida, please feel free to give us a call at 1-888-COLD-AIR.

We are here to help you!

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Naples Daily News features Shorty’s 50 Years at Conditioned Air

August 6th, 2018

Our friends at Naples Daily News did a nice feature on Shorty’s 50th celebration here at Conditioned Air. Read more here

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The Life of “Shorty”

July 24th, 2018

Today marks a big milestone in the life of William “Shorty” Sander, our longtime service professional and Field Supervisor. Longtime does not do it justice as today is Shorty’s 50th anniversary with Conditioned Air. Yes, five zero, 50. He came to work on July 24, 1968 when CAC had only 12 people. 50 years of loyalty to the people of Conditioned Air, our customers and clients all over southwest Florida and the industry and profession he loves. What a landmark day in Shorty’s life and fortunately for all of us, our lives as well.

 

Shorty is part of the foundation and fabric that is Conditioned Air and his contribution to the lives of people here and the people we serve cannot be overstated.

 

Congratulations Shorty!!

 

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