How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your AC Unit

June 20th, 2017

Air conditioning systems tend to be relatively reliable, and with proper care and maintenance, they can often last well over 10 years. As a system ages, however, it will lose both cooling performance and efficiency, especially compared to the latest models, and it will eventually become more cost-effective to replace the system, rather than paying its ever-increasing repair and operational costs.

Signs It’s Time for HVAC System Replacement

  • The system is more than 10–15 years old and showing wear.
  • Energy bills are rising despite similar usage.
  • The unit needs frequent repairs or breakdowns.
  • Some rooms are unevenly heated/cooled or airflow is weak.
  • Strange noises or odors are coming from the system.

AC Repair vs Replacement: How to Decide

  • If your system is over 10–15 years old, major problems become more likely and newer units offer better efficiency.
  • If your energy costs have been steadily increasing—older, inefficient units cost more to run.
  • If the unit is under SEER‑13 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), upgrading to a modern system can reduce cooling costs significantly.
  • When repairs become frequent or costly, especially for major parts like the compressor.
  • If the system uses outdated refrigerants (e.g. R‑22) which are harder to maintain or replacing parts is expensive. 
  • If your home is no longer maintaining comfort (struggles with temperature/humidity/durability), it may be more cost‑effective to replace.

You should consider A/C replacement when any of the following are true, especially if you’re unsure about when to get a new air conditioner.

  • The system is over 10 or 15 years old: Once an A/C unit is over 10 years old, it is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and major problems will be far more likely to occur. By upgrading to a new system, you can enjoy improved comfort, reduced energy costs, and the many improvements in technology and design that have occurred over the last decade.
  • Energy costs have increased: Gradual increases in your energy usage are to be expected as the system loses efficiency, and you can often save significantly on your long-term energy costs with an A/C replacement.
  • Your system is less than 13 SEER: Modern systems have SEER ratings of 13 to over 20, and with the proper A/C replacement,  you can reduce your cooling costs dramatically while also improving dehumidification for summer comfort.
  • Your A/C requires frequent repairs: If your air conditioner requires service or has a major problem like a damaged compressor, it is often more cost-effective to replace the system than to continue repairs.
  • Your system uses an outdated refrigerant: If your system uses R-22 or an earlier refrigerant, it may be more cost-effective to install a new system with R410A than to retrofit an existing system.
  • Your home is no longer comfortable: As the performance of your A/C unit degrades, it may no longer be able to keep up with the heat and humidity in Southwest Florida. A new system can offer better cooling and dehumidification, as well as improved reliability, especially if you prepare your ac for summer heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How old should an AC unit be before considering replacement?
Answer: When an AC unit is 10 to 15 years old, chances of major component failures increase, efficiency drops, and repair costs tend to rise. At that age range, it’s often more cost‑effective to replace the system than keep repairing it. 

Question: What SEER rating makes replacement worthwhile?
Answer: If your existing unit has a SEER rating below about 13, upgrading to a newer model with a higher SEER can dramatically cut cooling costs over time. 

Question: When do frequent repairs indicate it’s time to replace the AC?
Answer: If your AC requires service or major repairs often, replacing it may be more economical. Frequent breakdowns mean high ongoing repair costs and declining reliability.

Question: Why is using outdated refrigerants a sign to replace the AC unit?
Answer: Older units using R‑22 refrigerant (or earlier types) are being phased out. R‑22 is expensive and harder to source. Newer AC systems use current refrigerants and are more efficient.

If you are considering A/C replacement, talk to our team at Conditioned Air today. We can help you find the right system for your needs and your budget, and we serve homeowners throughout Southwest Florida.

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Central Air Conditioning vs Room Air Conditioning: Which Is Best for Your Home?

June 13th, 2017

Air conditioning is essential for comfort in Southwest Florida, and if you are considering adding a cooling system to your home, there are several options. Central air conditioning tends to be the most popular, because it cools the entire home, but it is also a significant investment. Room air conditioning, or window units, cost less initially, but they have some disadvantages.

Room Air Conditioning

Window units are easy to install and are a quick, inexpensive way to add cooling to one or more rooms, and each room can be set to a different temperature. Because they lack air ducts, there are no losses from leaks in the ductwork or missing insulation, which can increase energy usage significantly. They are far less efficient, however, than a properly-installed, well-maintained central air conditioning system, especially as multiple units are added to cool individual rooms. They also do not dehumidify as well as central air conditioning systems, making it feel hotter than it actually is in the humid climate of Southwest Florida.

Central Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning systems operate more efficiently than window units, and they are far better at removing moisture, making you feel cooler on a humid day. They also provide more even cooling, with air distributed from multiple ducts, rather than a single location. Central air conditioners also add to the value of your home, and are a wise investment, especially high-efficiency models that can reduce your long-term energy usage and utility costs. However, without a zoning system, the temperature cannot be adjusted independently in each room, and, if the air ducts are not maintained properly, energy could be lost through the ducts as the system ages.

For an area like Southwest Florida, where humidity is a major concern, a central air conditioner will tend to provide better comfort, especially if it has a zoning system to allow temperature adjustments in each room. The initial investment will be higher, however, though that can be earned back through lower energy costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the difference between central air conditioning and room air conditioning?
Answer: Central air conditioning cools an entire home through a network of ducts connected to a single system. Room air conditioning units, such as window or portable units, are designed to cool individual rooms. Central systems provide consistent whole home comfort, while room units are typically used for smaller spaces or targeted cooling.

Question: Which is more energy efficient: central air or room air conditioners?
Answer: Energy efficiency depends on how the system is used and the size of the space. Central air conditioning can be more efficient for cooling an entire home evenly. However, room air conditioners may use less energy when cooling only one or two rooms instead of the entire house.

Question: Is central air conditioning better for larger homes?
Answer: Yes, central air conditioning is usually better suited for larger homes. It distributes cool air throughout the entire house using ductwork, helping maintain consistent temperatures in multiple rooms. This makes it a convenient and effective solution for households that want whole home cooling.

Question: When should you choose a room air conditioner instead of central air?
Answer: A room air conditioner can be a good choice if you only need to cool a small space or a single room. It may also be useful in apartments, smaller homes, or areas where installing ductwork for central air is not practical or cost effective.

Question: What factors should homeowners consider when choosing between central and room air conditioning?
Answer: Homeowners should consider the size of their home, budget, installation requirements, and cooling needs. Central air systems work well for whole home comfort, while room air conditioners are better for targeted cooling in smaller spaces or specific rooms. Energy usage and long term maintenance are also important considerations.

 

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Conditioned Air Receives The Dave Lennox Award

June 8th, 2017

Conditioned Air of Naples, Fort Myers & Sarasota announced that it has received the Dave Lennox Award from Lennox Industries for the third year. It is the most prestigious award bestowed by the international heating and air conditioning equipment manufacturer, recognizing the top 25 dealers in the United States and Canada.

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What Are The Benefits Of NATE Certification?

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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Nest In Southwest Florida

June 6th, 2017

The Nest Learning Thermostat has finally arrived in Southwest Florida with lots of options to help save you money. Conditioned Air of Southwest Florida, with locations in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota is now your Nest Pro Elite Partner. Please check out our new page dedicated to great Nest Products now here. If you have any questions how we can help you with Nest Products please let us know.

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How Often Should AC Coils Be Cleaned for HVAC Efficiency?

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 AC Coils Are Crucial for System Performance

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 AC 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.

How to Clean AC Coils Safely and Effectively

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.

Frequently Asked Questions About AC Coil Cleaning

Question: How often should I have the coils in my AC cleaned?
 Answer: At a minimum, the indoor evaporator coil and outdoor condenser coil should be cleaned once a year as part of your regular AC maintenance.

Question: What problems can dirty coils cause?
 Answer: When coils are covered in dirt and debris, they can’t transfer heat efficiently, leading to poor cooling, frozen coils, an overworked compressor, and up to 30% higher energy usage.

Question: Can I clean the coils myself, or do I need a professional?
 Answer: You can clear simple outdoor debris and gently rinse the outdoor coil yourself (after turning off power). But for thorough cleaning, especially the indoor coil, it’s best to call a trained technician.

Question: Are there things I can do to help keep the coils cleaner between professional cleanings?
 Answer: Yes, regularly replace or clean your air filters, keep at least two feet of clear space around the outdoor unit, and direct mower clippings and debris away from the condenser. All those steps help reduce coil fouling.

 

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4 Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Tips to Try First

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

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

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 Improve Your Cooling System Efficiency

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, especially when paired with easy ways to lower energy consumption.

Quick Steps to Improve Air Conditioning Efficiency at Home

  • Install or upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to match your schedule and reduce cooling costs by up to ~20%. 
  • Keep your system well‑maintained: clean coils, change filters regularly, and have a professional inspect the unit at least twice per year. 
  • Reduce heat gain in your home: seal leaks and insulate, close blinds or curtains during peak sun hours, delay heat‑producing tasks, use exhaust fans, and swap out inefficient bulbs.

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. Have your system professionally inspected and serviced at least twice a year for the best results, and check the air filter yourself monthly to avoid issues like those caused by older AC units using R22.

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—an approach that works well alongside fall energy-saving tips. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is one of the easiest upgrades to improve cooling efficiency?
Answer: Installing a programmable thermostat is among the simplest improvements. Newer thermostat models with scheduling, Wi‑Fi connectivity, or self‑programming features let you more precisely control when your AC runs, reducing unnecessary cooling. 

Question: How often should I perform maintenance on my cooling system?
Answer: Regular maintenance is key. Replace filters, clean condenser and evaporator coils, and schedule a professional inspection at least twice a year. Checking the air filter monthly is also recommended. 

Question: What are some ways to reduce heat gain in the home to help AC work less?
Answer: You can seal and insulate your home to cut down on outdoor heat entering. Also close blinds or curtains during sunny parts of the day, delay heat‑producing activities (like cooking) until cooler times, and use exhaust fans to reduce humidity. 

Question: Why is reducing indoor humidity beneficial for AC efficiency?
Answer: High humidity makes the AC work harder because moisture in the air must be removed, which uses extra energy. Using exhaust fans, sealing leaks, and reducing sources of moisture help keep humidity down and system strain lower.

Question: Can swapping light bulbs contribute to cooling system efficiency?
Answer: Yes. Incandescent bulbs produce a lot of heat. Replacing them with LED or fluorescent bulbs reduces ambient heat in the home, which in turn reduces the load on your AC system.

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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