Conditioned Air Company of Naples, LLC Blog: Posts Tagged ‘HVAC’

Does Your Air Conditioner Really Require a Yearly Tune-Up?

Thursday, July 8th, 2021

Does your A/C really require a yearly tune-up? If you want a reliable air conditioner that doesn’t call it quits halfway into the cooling season, the answer is yes. While you may get lucky the first or second year you skip out on a tune-up, the lack of maintenance will eventually catch up to your unit, meaning either a major malfunction will occur or your system’s efficiency will dip, significantly. If you’re still questioning the importance of having your air conditioner tuned-up, the consequences listed below will definitely change your mind.

Restricted Airflow

During a tune-up an air conditioning specialist thoroughly cleans your system. This includes checking and replacing the air filter and cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils. Excessive dirt and grime on the unit’s coils and a filter left unchanged for too long are contributing factors to poor airflow. Restricted airflow can cause a number of issues, including frozen evaporator coils and a drop in efficiency. A lack of efficiency also means your air conditioner is forced to work longer and harder while trying to cool your home, which inevitably leads to components inside your A/C wearing down faster than they should.

Expensive Repair Bills

An air conditioner technician does a lot more than just clean your unit; they also inspect your A/C for damaged, loose, and leaking components, which, if left in disrepair can cause a major or even dangerous malfunction. During a tune-up an air conditioning contractor will perform a thorough examination of your system’s fans, wiring, refrigerant level, and motor. If any issues are spotted they will either repair or replace the offending component. When you choose to skip your systems yearly tune-up, the parts in your unit that are beginning to wear down will continue to deteriorate, meaning what could have been a simple repair will likely turn into an expensive one.

Reduced Lifespan

Having your air conditioner tuned-up on a yearly basis is key to extending its life, on the opposite side of the fence, neglecting to get your system tuned-up every year will accelerate the aging process, meaning your A/C will call it quits earlier than its estimated lifespan. If you don’t want to spend a large amount of money replacing your air conditioner prematurely, a yearly tune-up is extremely important.

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HONEST AIR CONDITIONING OF VENICE JOINS CONDITIONED AIR; MERGER CREATES ONE OF THE LARGEST AC FIRMS IN SARASOTA COUNTY

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2019

HONEST AIR CONDITIONING OF VENICE JOINS CONDITIONED AIR; MERGER CREATES ONE OF THE LARGEST AC FIRMS IN SARASOTA COUNTY

NAPLES, FL. – Conditioned Air and Honest Air Conditioning of Venice announced a partnership under which Honest Air will be acquired by Conditioned Air and operate as a division of the air-conditioning contracting and service firm. This merger expands Conditioned Air’s presence in Sarasota County and enables Honest Air Conditioning to provide enhanced products and services.

 

“This is a great partnership as our two companies share the same core values and a commitment to serve our customers with honesty and integrity and to provide service that will exceed their expectations,” said Tim M. Dupre, President and Chief Executive Officer for Conditioned Air.

 

Once the transaction is completed, Honest Air Conditioning will operate under its existing name as a division of Conditioned Air. A number of improvements also are in the works to allow the company to better serve customers, such as an updated dispatching/operating software program.

 

“We will have more access to employee training programs to ensure that we have the best technicians in the market,” said Nicholas J. Masher, President of Honest Air. “Our service fleet also will have increased inventory, which will allow us to serve customers faster, and improved buying power will ensure our ability to provide fair and competitive pricing in the local market.”

 

Headquartered in Naples, Conditioned Air is currently the region’s largest air-conditioning contracting and service firm with a total of 390 employees serving Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Sarasota and Manatee counties. The company expanded into Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties in 2011, mostly to serve existing clients in those markets. The company has since experienced tremendous growth, increasing revenue and boosting its employment throughout the region.

 

To accommodate further growth in the northern region, Conditioned Air last year moved into the remaining flex space in its northern headquarters building located on Knight’s Trail Road in North Venice, growing from about 5,000 square feet up to 15,000 square feet. The company also has been increasing employment and expects to hire an additional 15 to 20 people over the next year.

 

The acquisition of Honest Air Conditioning fits with Conditioned Air’s strategic plan to grow the company both organically and through acquisitions of companies with similar corporate cultures.

 

Honest Air Conditioning has served the South Florida community since 2000. It is owned by husband and wife team, Nick and Brooke Masher. The couple is committed to the local community, to providing superior service to their customers and to running a successful company that provides a rewarding career to their employees. The Mashers will remain in a leadership role.

 

Founded in 1962, Conditioned Air offers local expertise in light commercial and residential HVAC systems, including design, engineer, estimate, installation and maintenance of new construction, refrigeration, indoor air quality and dehumidification systems. For additional information or to schedule service, call 1-888-COLD-AIR or visit  www.conditionedair.com.

 

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THE END OF R22: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR OLD AIR CONDITIONER

Wednesday, August 14th, 2019

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 service. For many, the smarter option is upgrading to newer technology, such as ductless mini split systems for additions. 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.

Why replacing your old AC may be better than maintaining R‑22 refrigerant?

  • R‑22 refrigerant is being phased out due to environmental rules; no new R22 can be produced.
  • As R‑22 becomes scarce, its price rises and availability becomes limited, making maintenance increasingly expensive.
  • Old units using R‑22 often are less efficient than modern units that use newer refrigerants like R‑410A. 
  • Replacing the entire AC system with one designed for compliant refrigerants is often more cost‑effective in the long run than repeated R‑22 recharges and repairs.

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, making regular maintenance tasks like changing your air filters even more important for system efficiency. 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. Even if you need a recharge of R22 in the future, there can be no guarantee that the refrigerant will be available, especially as summertime temperatures continue rising.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is R‑22 refrigerant and why is it being phased out?
Answer: R‑22 (also known as Freon or HCFC‑22) is a refrigerant commonly used in older air conditioning systems. It is being phased out because it depletes the ozone layer and contributes to environmental harm. Regulations require its production to stop and its use to be restricted. 

Question: Is it still legal to use R‑22 in existing air conditioning units?
Answer: Yes. Existing AC units that use R‑22 can still operate and be serviced, but R‑22 is no longer manufactured or imported. Only recovered or recycled R‑22 is available, which tends to be more expensive and less easily sourced. 

Question: What are the cost implications of continuing with an R‑22 AC system?
Answer: Costs tend to rise because R‑22 supply is limited. Repairing leaks, recharging refrigerant, or maintaining such systems becomes more costly. Over time, these rising service costs can make keeping an old system less economical than replacing it. 

Question: Can I retrofit my old R‑22 air conditioner to use a newer refrigerant?
Answer: In some cases it may be possible to retrofit, but there are limitations. Differences in system design, oil types, and compatibility can make retrofits costly, less efficient, or technically impractical. It’s not always guaranteed or cost‑effective.

Question: When is it more sensible to replace an R‑22 AC unit rather than keep repairing it?
Answer: It’s generally more sensible to replace when the unit is older (often over 10‑15 years), requires frequent repairs, has major component failures, or if the costs of maintaining R‑22 and its parts outweigh the benefits. Also when energy efficiency and environmental compliance are priorities.

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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Conditioned Air plots major expansion

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019
Conditioned Air of Naples recently announced plans to build a 52,710-square-foot operations center in Fort Myers.
by: Business Observer Staff

The march up Florida’s west coast from Collier County to grab more market share continues to blow quickly for Conditioned Air of Naples.

The latest news: The company recently announced plans to build a 52,710-square-foot operations center in Fort Myers, a replacement of its current facility in the area and the culmination of a two-year search. The air conditioning contracting and service firm company, with 370 employees and $51 million in revenue in 2018, also plans to double in size in the next five to seven years, mostly in Lee and Sarasota counties. “We are very excited about the future of Conditioned Air, with a combination of organic growth through the company and potential acquisitions,” Conditioned Air President and CEO Tim Dupre says in a statement.

The new complex will be in the Southwest International Commerce Park, just across from Southwest Florida International Airport, off Interstate 75. The building will be slit into some 10,800 square feet of office space, 31,110 square feet of warehouse space and 10,800 square feet of mezzanine for storage and future expansion.

Founded in 1962, Conditioned Air’s 370-person payroll is divided into 185 people in Collier County, 124 in Lee County and 61 in Sarasota County. The new building — replacing an existing smaller facility nearby on Jetport Loop — will be the company’s central hub for the growing Lee and Charlotte county markets. It will provide operational support for its Naples headquarters and Sarasota branches, the release states, and will also be the company’s main training facility, with a fully functional training lab for hands-on education.

Officials hope to break ground for the project in October, with expected completion and occupancy scheduled for July 2020. The developer is Seagate Development Group, and the architect/designer is McHarris Planning & Design.

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CONDITIONED AIR TO EXPAND OPERATIONS

Thursday, July 25th, 2019

Conditioned Air plans to build a 52,710-square-foot operations center in Fort Myers to accommodate the air-conditioning contracting and service firm’s current and future growth throughout Southwest Florida. The building will be located at the intersection of Jetport Loop and Global Parkway in the Southwest International Commerce Park across from the Southwest Florida International Airport. The building will encompass 10,800 square feet of office space, 31,110 square feet of warehouse space, and 10,800 square feet of mezzanine for storage and future expansion. The building will be Conditioned Air’s central hub for the growing Lee and Charlotte County markets and provide operational support for its Naples headquarters and Sarasota branches. It also will serve as the company’s main training facility, with a fully functional training lab for hands-on continuous education and onboarding of entry-level technicians. The new operations center will replace an existing smaller facility nearby on Jetport Loop. Permitting is currently underway on the location. It is anticipated that ground will be broken on the site in October with completion and occupancy scheduled for July 2020. The building will be designed by McHarris Planning & Design and developed by Seagate Development Group. Conditioned Air plans to double in size in the next five to seven years, according to a press release.

-Gulfshore Business Daily

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Happy July

Monday, July 8th, 2019

July is here and it’s time to save big! Lennox has just unveiled new rebates just in time for summer. You can now save up to $1600 on select units. This doesn’t include the money you will save on your utility bills this hot and humid Florida summer. Get in now and find out more here

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Florida Rainy Season & Your AC Unit

Thursday, June 6th, 2019

All over Southwest Florida, heavy rains are common, especially as tropical storms or hurricanes approach. No matter if you are in Sarasota, Fort Myers or Naples, Conditioned Air has you covered. 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. Conditioned Air serves customers from Bradenton to Naples, Florida, part of Southwest Florida.

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Hurricane Season in Florida Starts this Saturday

Wednesday, May 29th, 2019

If you live or own a home in Florida, Hurricanes are always a concern. Hurricane season starts this Saturday, June 1, 2019 and ends November 30, 2019.  Are you prepared? If not here’s some tips for you to consider:

Now/Prepare

 

Sign up for local alerts and

warnings. Monitor local news and weather reports.

Prepare to evacuate by testing your emergency communication plan(s), learning evacuation routes, having a place to stay, and packing a “go bag.”

Stock emergency supplies.

Protect your property by installing sewer backflow valves, anchoring fuel tanks, reviewing insurance policies, and cataloging belongings.

Collect and safeguard critical financial, medical, educational, and legal documents and records.

 

During/Survive

 

Follow guidance from local

authorities.

If advised to evacuate, grab your “go bag” and leave immediately.

For protection from high winds,

stay away from windows and seek shelter on the lowest level in an interior room.

Move to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning.

Turn Around Don’t Drown.®

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.

Call 9-1-1 if you are in life- threatening danger.

 

After/Be Safe

 

Return to the area only after

authorities say it is safe to do so. Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected by qualified professionals.

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.

Look out for downed or unstable trees, poles, and power lines.

Do not remove heavy debris by yourself. Wear gloves and sturdy, thick-soled shoes to protect your hands and feet.

Do not drink tap water unless authorities say it is safe.

To learn more about how you should prepare for the upcoming hurricane season in Florida check out more tips from Ready.gov here.

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Summer is back in Southwest Florida!

Monday, May 6th, 2019

Summer in Southwest Florida can be brutal. Are you ready? Most importantly, is your AC Unit ready?

Don’t be surprised and left out in the heat this summer. We can come out and make sure your unit is ready for summer. Manufacturers suggest getting your unit checked twice per year to keep your unit under warranty.

In case you didn’t know, we offer maintenance agreements where we come make a house call twice per year to keep your HVAC unit cleaned and running properly. It’s just like your car, it needs love too.

If you have any questions about just what our maintenance agreements are all about, please feel free to live chat with us here on our website or by calling us anywhere in southwest Florida at 1-888-COLD-AIR.

We are proud to serve from Bradenton to Naples so let us keep you cool all summer long!

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What To Expect

Wednesday, February 20th, 2019

There is so much noise in the world today. It sometimes makes it difficult to find out who are the best companies to do business with locally. That’s why we want to be pro-active and let you know what you can expect when you partner with us here at Conditioned Air.

First of all, we have been in business for 57 years. Since 1962, Southwest Florida has trusted us to keep them cool. We stand behind our work and if it’s not done right, we take care of it. Experience the Conditioned Air difference today.

Below, you will find what to expect when you do business with Conditioned Air in Naples, Fort Myers or Sarasota. We encourage any customer to read reviews with anyone you do business with to ensure a world-class customer service experience.

 

  1. Technicians receive NO commissions on parts used in repairs.
  2. Technicians may NOT sell new equipment.
  3. Team members receive bonuses based on COMPLIMENTS from clients, NOT sales goals.
  4. Comfort Consultants do NOT share in any “overage” pricing. We do not allow that common practice.
  5. We have NO SALES QUOTAS in any department. No HIGH-PRESSURE SALES.
  6. If we cannot make you satisfied with any equipment we sell, we will refund the money, in full, in the first year.
  7. All team members are fully background checked and drug screened.
  8. We have been in continuous business since 1962.
  9. We DO NOT accept deposits on residential replacement or service work. You pay only when we have completed the work as agreed.

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