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Why Smart Homeowners Keep Up on Air Conditioning Maintenance
Air conditioning maintenance is critical to the longevity and functionality of your AC system. Since its invention in the early 20th century, air conditioners have become essential for many Americans to breathe cleaner air and combat the summer heat indoors. According to the EIA, 87% of the homes in the United States use air conditioning equipment. Furthermore, as per their latest Residential Energy Consumption Survey, home air conditioning costs averaged $265 in 2015 or 12% of total home energy expenditures. Also, the U.S. Department of Energy states that air conditioners use about 6% of all the electricity produced in the United States, at an annual cost of about $29 billion to homeowners. Looking at these facts, we can safely say that AC units are one of the most valuable assets for your home, and air conditioning maintenance should be a top priority to take care of that asset.
If you ignore the routine maintenance of the air conditioner at your home, the energy usage of your air conditioning unit (and your utility bills) will likely increase while it steadily declines in performance. Spending money on air conditioning maintenance is a worthwhile investment, as it allows you to reduce the stress on your AC, save on unnecessary repairs, help prevent its untimely breakdown, as well as offer personal health and comfort. Here are four benefits of regular AC maintenance.
Air conditioning maintenance is a short-term investment in a long-term asset. Keep yours running smoothly – call Russell Heating & Air for an appointment today.
The benefits of air conditioning maintenance
1. Positively impacts the system performance
Air conditioners work on the basic premise of removing the unwanted heat and humidity from the indoor air into the outside and releasing the cool air inside. It contains mechanical components, including the compressor, condenser coil, evaporator coil, and thermostatic expansion valve. They manipulate the pressure and temperature of the specialized chemical called refrigerant for the entire air conditioning process. Unfortunately, indoor air pollutants can significantly hamper the functioning of air conditioner components. That\’s why keeping these components clean as a part of air conditioning maintenance is critical to ensure the smooth performance of your AC unit. Furthermore, it will help you increase the lifespan of your air conditioner and set it up to last around 15 to 20 years, if not more.
2. Protects the air conditioner\’s smooth operation
When you get air conditioning maintenance checks regularly, the HVAC technician performing the service will notify you if the components of your AC are going through the usual wear and tear and if any parts need repairs or replacements. The technician makes recommendations because they are very familiar with the AC components, and they can identify when you\’ve got a problem on the way. With that, you can protect your air conditioner from damage and avoid an emergency call. Generally, repairs or replacements are far more affordable when you find out about air conditioning issues early.
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3. Can reduce your energy costs
AC units perform at optimum capacity for the longest time with the assistance of air conditioning maintenance. This process includes cleaning ducts, fans, filters, and coils, thoroughly inspecting air conditioning equipment, monitoring and replacing coolant, and thermostat checks. This routine care allows the air conditioning unit to maximize its full potential and helps you by reducing your energy costs. Also, air duct cleaning is beneficial for your health too.
4. Provides reliable service
On the hottest days and nights of the year, a reliable working AC unit provides you comfort and ease of living only if you maintain it regularly to help avoid unexpected breakdowns. Air conditioning maintenance, including air duct cleaning and air filter upkeep, also assists in removing pollutants like dust, gasses, VOCs, mold, pet dander, and debris from the AC components and the air circulation within your home.
Is it time for your air conditioning maintenance?
Generally, you should perform maintenance on your air conditioner unit at least once every year, preferably during the early springtime before the weather heats up. Also, it\’s recommended to do regular duct cleaning to maintain air quality. Your HVAC tech can recommend how often to clean your ducts. At Russell Heating & Air, you get air conditioning maintenance service from experts who check the efficiency of your AC and suggest corrective steps if needed. Get in touch with us today to schedule your air conditioning maintenance in the Canton and Woodstock, GA area.
5 AC Maintenance Tips to Enhance the Functionality of Your Unit
The following 5 AC maintenance tips may keep your AC unit running smooth for years
Your air conditioner manages the temperature, removes excess humidity, helps eliminate the mold and musty odors, and provides improved air quality indoors. To ensure that your AC performs all these tasks for a long time, you need to routinely maintain the air conditioner unit. With regular AC maintenance, you can assist your air conditioner into running smoothly and reducing the chances of unexpected serious problems or breaking down. If you want to do some of the maintenance tasks for your air conditioner yourself, make sure that you wear appropriate safety gear and cut off the power supply to your AC. You can get started with the five AC maintenance tips mentioned below to enhance the functionality of your unit.
Not ready to DIY? Call Russell Heating & Air today for a quote on maintaining your AC professionally.
AC maintenance tips: 5 essential tasks
1. Keep the air filters clean or replace them
Air conditioners include air filters typically located behind the return air grille and inside the blower compartment. Filters catch air contaminants like dust, debris, mold, and pet dander to prevent them from interfering with the functionality of your unit and keep your breathable air cleaner. Unfortunately, these air filters get dirty and clogged over time with these air contaminants, which can impact the airflow of your AC and slow it down considerably. That\’s when you need to either clean the air filters (if they are reusable) or replace them (if they are the disposable kind). Remember to do it once per month, especially during the summer when the load on your AC increases. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner\’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%. Of all the AC maintenance tips you may read, this is the one that is easiest to handle on your own and has the greatest overall impact.
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2. Inspect the condenser cabinet
A condenser cabinet is an important part of an AC consisting of the coil, compressor, fan, and various controls. It is located in the exterior air conditioner unit for collecting or releasing heat depending on the weather conditions. You can inspect the condenser cabinet for cracks, melted insulation, burned wires, and signs of overheating. If you spot any problems, you should contact your local AC repair company for maintenance immediately before it causes severe damage to the entire unit.
3. Flush the drain lines
An air conditioner needs the drain lines to flow uninterrupted so that its efficiency isn\’t compromised at any stage. But when these drain lines are not clear due to pollutants like algae, dust, and mold, it can\’t remove excess water and moisture from the AC unit. In this case, you will notice the drain pan full of water and possibly some flooding. To get rid of this problem, you can use a small amount of bleach or vacuum cleaner to flush the drain lines. If you\’re feeling unsure about performing this job on your own, a local HVAC company can help.
4. Install and use a smart thermostat
The thermostat is one of the most critical components of AC as it helps control the temperature in an indoor space. When you leave your home for work or any other reason, you might forget to adjust the temperature on the thermostat. It costs you unnecessary expenses on energy consumption and overworks your air conditioner to have it running full blast when no one is home. But you can resolve this problem by investing in a smart thermostat. Unlike a mechanical thermostat, the smart thermostat allows you to program the temperature of your AC unit from wherever you are. Furthermore, when you set the temperature to adjust automatically for when you’re home and away, your air conditioner gets used more efficiently, and you will reduce your electricity bill.
5. Schedule regular AC maintenance
An air conditioner working at its optimum capacity is not only a matter of giving you luxury or comfort but also a matter of keeping your health and safety intact. In the south, the summer months can get very hot and muggy, with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees and relative humidity going over 75%. To combat this heat and moisture, you should have regular AC maintenance checks done by professionals. It can save you money on costly repairs on the air conditioner unit and reduce your power costs considerably.
When should you hire an AC maintenance company?
Once you implement these AC maintenance tips routinely, your air conditioner will deliver optimal performance for a long time. When your AC shows signs of wear and tear or suffers any damage even when you maintain it properly, you should hire the services of an AC maintenance company. Russell Heating & Air in Canton, GA provides you with the best repair and maintenance services for your AC to make sure that it works effectively and efficiently without fail. Call us today to get a quote on professional AC maintenance to upkeep the unit and ensure its longevity.
5 Reasons Why HVAC Preventive Maintenance Makes Your Life Easier
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a system responsible for safeguarding your comfort and indoor air quality. Whether it\’s a home, retail store, warehouse, office building, or any other indoor location, a smoothly functioning HVAC system provides you a secure and relaxed environment to live and breathe in. The main aim of installing an HVAC unit is to attain a fine balance between thermal comfort and operating costs. That means that HVAC preventive maintenance is critical to protect the investment you\’ve made in your HVAC system.
HVAC preventive maintenance includes experts looking at how well your HVAC system is operating, checking for minor faults and repairing them, and identifying potential issues to be addressed later. It also includes periodic duct cleaning. A regular preventive maintenance schedule is a must for you to avoid a breakdown of your HVAC system when you least expect it. With this, you can increase the shelf life of your HVAC unit, keep its repair costs to a minimum, ensure that it operates at the best possible levels for as long as possible, and keep your health and safety intact. Following are five reasons why HVAC preventive maintenance makes your life easier.
Don\’t let little problems turn into big problems. Schedule your HVAC preventative maintenance today with Russell Heating & Air.
HVAC Preventive Maintenance: 5 Reasons Why It Makes Your Life Easier
1. Improves your indoor air quality
According to the EPA, there is 2 to 5 times higher concentration of environmental pollutants indoors than outdoors. It\’s a big menace if someone in your family suffers from respiratory issues like asthma. To help control this air pollution problem, getting the air ducts cleaned professionally and regularly is a must. [https://legacy1.russellheatingandair.com/services/duct-cleaning-and-repair/] It\’s an HVAC preventive maintenance practice that many homeowners skip, but they pay the price when it comes to the quality of the air in their homes.
2. Enhances your living comfort
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An HVAC system is a proven technology that helps you to live comfortably within the confines of your home, but only when you maintain it regularly. A properly maintained system is able to work effectively during the hottest days and coldest nights of the year. Preventive maintenance gives you the best possible chance of an HVAC unit performing its tasks optimally and enhancing your living comfort without unexpected breakdowns.
3. Reduces the risk of costly HVAC system repairs
When you keep up with a regular HVAC preventive maintenance plan at your home, it benefits you in so many different ways. With consistent checks, you can catch potential issues in your HVAC system before they cause any major damage. And subsequently, it will reduce the risk of unexpected costly repairs and save yourself from unwanted hassle. Air conditioning is a vital part of any HVAC system, so keeping it maintained is a must for effective and efficient functioning. Read how Russell Heating & Air routine AC maintenance helps prevent air conditioning problems, especially during the peak season. [https://legacy1.russellheatingandair.com/services/air-conditioning/]
4. Saves you money every year
Preventive maintenance is all about testing, inspecting, cleaning, and diagnosing your HVAC system to ensure that it works efficiently. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, HVAC preventive maintenance can save you up to 30% on your energy bill. Maintaining your HVAC system will ensure less energy consumption at your home, saving you money on your electricity or gas bill every year.
5. Extends the lifespan of your HVAC system
Installation of a new HVAC unit is quite expensive, so you want to make sure you take care of it and give it the longest life possible. That\’s why you should get regular preventive maintenance done on your HVAC system to correct minor issues and keep it performing well. Generally, an HVAC unit lasts around 15 to 25 years, depending on specific environmental variables and how well it is maintained.
Make Your Life Easier with HVAC Preventive Maintenance
HVAC preventive maintenance is a cost-effective way for you to make sure that your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency for as long as possible. Russell Heating & Air provides top-quality and highly-efficient HVAC preventive maintenance services in the Canton and Woodstock, GA area. Contact us today to get your custom quote so that you can enhance the comfort of your home and save yourself money in the long run.
3 Major Reasons for Poor Indoor Air Quality
In our day-to-day lives, we face various environmental pollutants that pose a considerable health risk. No place is entirely safe from the harmful effects of air pollution, whether it\’s our home, school, office, or anywhere else. Most of us try to avoid outdoor air pollution as much as possible by simply staying inside.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we spend approximately 90 percent of our time indoors. Unfortunately, our indoor air quality isn\’t as safe and healthy as we might think. The EPA states that the concentration of environmental pollutants is 2 to 5 times higher indoors than outdoors. Ouch!
These indoor air pollutants can bring about serious health issues, especially in children, the elderly, and chronically ill people. Soon after exposure, they can cause skin irritations, headaches, fatigue, and disorientation. Even worse, they can cause asthma, cardiovascular diseases, emphysema, and even cancer in the long term. That\’s why it’s important to take the dangers of indoor air pollution seriously. Following are the three major indoor air pollutants that you should learn about and understand to mitigate the risk to your health and well-being.
Dirty air ducts can harbor all kinds of contaminants that keep your indoor air quality low even when your filters are clean. Call Russell Heating & Air today for a quote on cleaning up those ducts.
Indoor air pollutants: 3 top offenders
1. Gasses and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Gasses and VOCs are the indoor air pollutants found in various household products like paints, paint thinners, varnishes, adhesives, cleaners, cosmetics, carpets, furniture, and tiles. These organic chemicals vaporize and become gasses at standard room temperatures. Some dangerous gasses and VOCs are CO, NO2, SO2, O3, Radon, Toluene, Xylene, Benzene, Styrene, Formaldehyde, Perchloroethylene, Naphthalene, and Trichloroethylene. They can cause chest pain, coughing, skin reactions, eye and respiratory irritation, nausea, birth defects, and memory impairment.
To lower the impact of gasses and VOCs at your home and improve indoor air quality, use them as per their directions and make sure the area is well ventilated while using them. Always be sure to properly dispose of chemicals and their containers.
2. Mold
Mold is a type of fungi that needs a food source, moisture, and mild temperatures to grow. Their food source includes paper, wood, dust, dirt, soap scum, glues, paint, insulation, and carpet – things found in abundance in your home! These molds thrive on leaky roofs and pipes, moist walls, clogged gutters, drains, poor HVAC design and operation, sitting water in appliances, and excessive humidity indoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimation, around 6 to 10 percent of the general population and 15 to 50 percent of the genetically susceptible population are sensitive to mold allergens.
Symptoms of a mold allergy include respiratory issues, throat soreness, upper body congestion, and watery eyes. Mold is also known for playing a role in triggering asthma, especially in children. You can find mold growth problems by looking for it visually, checking for water damage, and noting any musty odors. However, you can’t always see mold. To be certain, you can get your home tested for mold spores. Also, mold needs humidity to thrive, so learn about how Russell Heating & Air whole house dehumidifiers can keep the humidity levels at your home in check.
3. Pet Dander
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Many people assume pet dander is pet hair, but that\’s not the case. Pet dander is tiny and dried skin flakes that pets like dogs, cats, birds, and many other animals shed from their bodies. If you are suffering from an allergy, then pet dander can become a big issue. It can trigger asthma, cause chest tightness, eczema, itchiness, and wheezing. But don\’t worry, you can live with your pets even if you have a pet allergy. Decluttering, cleaning your home regularly, and keeping your pet clean are some of the ways to reduce the pet dander in your home and enhance your indoor air quality significantly.
Also, don’t forget to keep your HVAC system’s air filters clean so they can catch these contaminants before they spread around the house. Don’t worry, replacing your air filters is easy. When Russell Heating & Air completes your HVAC system routine maintenance, our technicians can show you how to do it.
Make sure your indoor air quality is both safe and healthy
VOCs, mold, pet dander, and other pollutants can be quite a health hazard when indoor air quality isn’t taken seriously. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to keep them under control. Change your HVAC air filters regularly, make sure your air ducts are clean, and consider humidity control measures like whole-house dehumidifiers. Russell Heating & Air in Canton, GA offers all these solutions and more. Call us today and take the first steps to cleaner, healthier indoor air.
Searching for \”HVAC Company Near Me\”? Here\’s What You Should Look for in a Service Company.
When searching for \”HVAC Company Near Me\” or “Air Conditioner Service Near Me”, this is What You Should Look for in a Service Company.
Have you typed HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me into a search bar and not known how to choose from the results? Whether you are a new homeowner or an existing one experiencing heating and cooling troubles for the first time, you’ve found yourself in need of a good HVAC company. And, if you’re like most people, your first stop is Google.
But once you’ve searched for an HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me in your area, then what? How do you make the best choice from the list? From questions to ask to how to evaluate reviews, you’ll find answers below.
Need to find a trustworthy heating and air conditioning repair company in the Canton, GA area?
Russell Heating and Air has a reputation for reliability, value, and customer satisfaction.
6 Boxes to Check to Find the Best HVAC Services Company
No matter what area you’re located in, there are certain markers of quality when it comes to heating and air conditioning companies. Continue reading to find six criteria you should consider before hiring an HVAC maintenance company to repair your air conditioning or heating unit.
1. Licenses and certifications
Heating and cooling companies in the industry require proper licenses to be able to serve their customers. These licenses/certifications are a symbol to assure their customers that the company’s technicians who will be working on their heating and cooling systems have the appropriate skills, training, and experience. Georgia offers two kinds of HVAC licenses to service experts: Georgia HVAC License Class I and Georgia HVAC License Class II. Before applying for the Georgia HVAC License Class II, the future applicant should possess a minimum of five years of experience which includes two years of installation as a lead mechanic and a minimum of one year of commercial work experience, one year as a technician or supervisor, and two years of commercial supervisory experience.
While you are searching HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, you should ensure that the HVAC repair provider on your short list has these licenses. They should be open and willing to share their credentials. In addition to the licenses, the contractor should also be bonded and insured to protect homeowners in case of injury or accidental damage. Apart from these, you should also look for the company’s stability and experience because how long the company has been open does not alone assure that the HVAC tech will do the job right.
2. Dealing with home evaluation and cost estimation proposals
The search for an HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me in your area is just the first step to find a solution to your heating and air conditioning problems. You must then go through a home evaluation or repair estimate by the potential service contractors to find the best heating and cooling solutions for your home. While the search phrases HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me will get you many relevant options in your area, you might have to struggle a bit before finding the perfect fit. A home evaluation will give you an excellent chance to see if you have landed yourself the right HVAC services consultant who will help you find the best heating and air conditioning options for your home.
The factors that the technicians should check during your home’s evaluation are the area of your house, the number of windows, the direction in which the windows are facing, and the appropriate R-value insulation. Short for Resistance-value, R-value measures how well a specific type of insulation can resist heat flow. This means the greater the R-value, the better the insulation for your climate and home.
Once the home\’s evaluation is completed, the prospective contractors will quickly estimate the costs involved for maintenance or installation, warranties, and energy efficiency details. The proposal the HVAC repair company suggests should offer the best quality and greatest energy efficiency. Operating your units with the greatest efficiency will help offset a heftier unit price tag by using less energy over time. Keep in mind to ask about these tiny but very crucial details while calling names from your search results.
3. Checking references and reviews
When doing an internet search for HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, you’ll see a list of heating and cooling services and repair companies in the results. The best HVAC service experts provide high-quality work to serve their customers’ needs. A reputable company will also have the company name emblazoned on their vehicles when they arrive. But how do you determine the quality of the company before you hire?
References and reviews significantly reflect the quality of services provided by a particular company. Based on the search results of searching HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, you’ll have a list of potential repair consultants in your area to call. But before you start dialing, you can check the online reviews they received from their previous customers. You can filter the reviews based on these criteria: whether the heating and cooling company contractor accomplished tasks within time and budget, performed a clean installation, respected the homeowner\’s property, and ensured the entire system worked after installation.
However, be aware that reviews are not always open and honest. Some of the glowing 5-star reviews can also be fake. One sign of fake reviews is when it is vague yet positive and does not mention any pertinent details. At the same time, harshly negative reviews can also be fake, posted by disgruntled former employees. Doing your homework and evaluating reviews to separate the fabricated from the authentic will go a long way in helping you find the right repair company.
In addition to reviews, the Better Business Bureau is a platform where you can find complaints registered for faulty and improper services from businesses. You can use this platform to even further filter out the potential candidates from your search results.
4. Availability of rebates, discounts, and special offers
Heating and air conditioning systems are expensive, so look for rebates on energy-efficient appliances, special offers and financing, or discounts that the HVAC company is providing. They should also be aware of any open tax incentives for upgrading to more modern units so you can tell your tax preparer. Simply searching for an HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me in your area won’t always tell you if they’ve got special offers happening. When you call a company, be sure to ask.
Russell Heating and Air is an HVAC company providing repair, maintenance and installation services to the Canton, GA and Woodstock, GA area. We’ve been open and serving since 2008 and offer a combined team experience of over 60 years. We regularly offer discounts and special offers, so be sure to ask when you call us. We are a service-oriented company with a history of reviews from satisfied customers. We have earned a BBB A+ rating for our top-quality HVAC services.
5. Ensuring the efficiency of equipment offered
Every homeowner should consider efficiency as one of the most vital aspects before buying new heating and cooling units when it is time for a repair or replacement. Make sure that you ask the company for the Energy Star rating of the unit. Energy Star is the government program that rigorously tests and certifies heating and air conditioning equipment for efficiency. If the unit provided by the company does not have an Energy Star rating, you might want to choose another company. The Energy Star sticker should also be displayed on the unit in an open manner.
Units that are not up to the Energy Star rating standards leave you open to losing money thanks to an inefficient unit racking up high utility bills after installation. From your list of results from searching HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, see that you choose the one that adheres to supplying units with proper Energy Star ratings.
6. Air conditioning, furnace, and ventilation guarantees
An essential thing to understand while choosing an HVAC company is the different types of guarantee coverages they will be providing. These should include air conditioning repairs, installation of new air conditioning units, installation of new furnaces, furnace and heat pump repair, ductwork cleaning, routine maintenance and other services. HVAC companies will have refund policies for errors, omissions, and defective equipment. Before booking, make sure you get those policies in writing in case you need to make a claim. Find out exactly what they cover, how long the warranty lasts, and how much money you can get back. Any reputable HVAC repair company will guarantee their work. If they don’t, you’ll want to find a different contractor.
New equipment will be fully warrantied, but the length of the warranty will vary from unit to unit. Your HVAC company should provide a guarantee for installing properly-sized equipment to deliver the correct temperature for the size of your house. These warranties from your HVAC company will ensure that if the technician cannot install the right sized unit you will receive a replacement or free installation. They should also offer guarantees for the protection of your property while installing both outdoor and indoor units. If anything is damaged while the technicians work, then the guarantee will cover a replacement or repair.
The manufacturer’s warranty that comes with the heating or cooling unit will ensure a replacement or repair if the air conditioning or furnace does not maintain proper temperatures. But you’ll have to question each company regarding the guarantees they provide for their work before proceeding.
Don’t sweat your air conditioning repair. Call Russell Heating & Air today.
(678) 324-8210
Now that we’ve covered the general list, let’s get into a few more details as they relate to air conditioning and heating services, repair and maintenance. Especially when you’re going to be laying out a lot of cash for repair or replacements, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got the right company on the job.
A few things to keep in mind when searching for an HVAC company near me in your area.
Especially in a warmer area like Georgia, your air conditioning function is absolutely critical. But it can also get bitterly cold in the winter, making keeping your furnace in good repair just as important. Your HVAC influences temperature, humidity, ventilation, and air purity in the indoor environment all year round, with your safety and comfort as the highest priority. An HVAC unit’s main aim is to achieve the delicate balance between finding your family’s comfort while controlling operating costs.
Here is a list of the key performance measurements that you should keep in mind when searching for air conditioner service near me:
1. Air handling equipment
You can imagine an HVAC unit like the cardiovascular and respiratory system of your home. The unit’s job is to supply clean and conditioned air to all the parts of the house. This system’s heart is the air handler, which is where the outdoor air that is drawn in is filtered, conditioned, and mixed with return air getting distributed through a network of ducts to and from various parts of your house. The air handler includes a lot of basic components that help in conditioning and distributing the air evenly throughout the building. These include dampers, fans or blowers, heating and cooling coils, air filters, boilers or furnaces, compressors, ductwork to convey the air, and diffusers or registers. The process is controlled via a number of control mechanisms like thermostats, sensors, and actuators.
When you finalize your choice from the search results of HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me for home evaluation, ensure that you discuss the details of positioning the air handler in your home.
2. Air velocity
To introduce, distribute, recirculate, and exhaust the air back and forth in your house, a fan is used. In order to check if the ventilation system is functioning well and the air is being distributed as expected, air velocity has to be periodically checked at various points. Measurements should be taken down for both the supply and the return side of the system. Your family’s comfort and health depend upon the open movement of air in your house and its velocity.
3. Ventilation
The amount of fresh air delivered inside the building is referred to as ventilation. To conserve energy, generally, the air handler recirculates air and mixes it with some amount of fresh air. This addition of fresh air dilutes any amount of airborne contamination that may be present indoors and helps exhaust it outside faster.
A good company that specializes in HVAC installation, repair and maintenance will know the critical importance of having the perfect ventilation system for a healthy home and a healthy family. During your home evaluation, ensure that the company you choose from the search results you find by searching HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me in your area can perform this important job.
Feeling a chill in the air? Have your furnace maintenance done before it becomes an emergency repair.
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4. Air volume and number of changes
According to ASHRAE Standard 62, there is a recommended volume of fresh air that has to be supplied to the various parts of your house. These values depend on the total number of people living in the house and the general nature of activity inside the building. This value is typically expressed as cubic feet per minute (cfm), cubic meters per hour (m3/hr), or litres of air per minute (l/min) per person.
The company in your area that you choose from your HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me search should understand the nuances of a perfect air volume and ventilation system and provide you with the best option possible for you and your family.
5. Thermal Comfort
Perception of thermal comfort is a quality that will vary from person to person. It is influenced by a combination of temperature, humidity, and airflow. It can also be affected by parameters outside of the HVAC system, such as time of day, activity level, clothing, and the number of individuals in a space. The ASHRAE Standard 55 recommends “comfortable” temperature to be within 74 to 82F (23 to 28C) during the summer and 68 to 78F (20 to 25.5C) during the winter. Generally, the indoor relative humidity level preferred by people is between 30 and 65 percent.
The existence of a differential pressure condition between spaces, if high enough, creates what is perceived as a draft, such as when you open a window. Drafts are essential as their complete lack can cause people to feel stuffiness or stale air. However, drafts have to be maintained at the correct speed so as to not be high enough to be noticed by the occupants of the house. Generally, drafts below 40 fpm (0.20 m/s) are not detected by people, and, therefore, maintaining levels close to these values is recommended.
6. Airborne contaminants as related to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Some substances can become airborne and can pose threats to your health. These particles can get inside your respiratory system and lead to a number of health problems that can range from temporary irritation to chronic issues and even death in extreme cases. These particles can be gases or chemical vapors such as CO, NOx, SOx, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and radon. Very small particles less than 4 microns in diameter can be taken in through inhalation. Biologicals, which include animal parts such as skin particles, as well as bacteria, viruses, and plants such as fungi, mold and pollen can also contaminate indoor air.
While all three of these categories are harmful, some people might be acutely allergic to these substances. Talk to your potential HVAC services company to see what recommendations they have for ensuring better indoor air quality. In the Canton and Woodstock areas in Georgia, Russell Heating & Air can provide top-quality air filtration and cleaning recommendations to help protect your family. [link to contact]
7. Differential Pressure
The small airborne particles and gases present in the air get transported by its movement and migrate from a high differential pressure area to a lower one. Therefore, the key to controlling this migration of unwanted contaminants is by managing differential pressure between the inside and outside and between different areas of the building. This is done by regulating the volumes of supply and return air. This makes verifying and maintaining your home’s building pressures very essential to prevent the infiltration of outdoor contaminants and moisture into your house.
Maintaining the house’s differential pressure is critical as not doing so can negatively impact the occupants’ quality of life and may cause accidents. The air pressure inside a building also controls the opening and closing of the doors to the outside. If the pressure is not maintained, it can make it difficult to open and close doors. This, especially in the case of the elderly or disabled family members, can lead to emergency scenarios and is therefore a significant concern.
8. System Pressure
Air pressure is a crucial part as well as a common issue faced by heating and air conditioning systems. An HVAC unit’s system pressure has three components: static pressure, which is the driving force to move air; velocity pressure, which is the extra force applied whenever there is an obstruction in the path of the air; and finally, the total pressure that is the sum total of static and velocity pressure. The fans and blowers tasked with meeting the requirements of adequate air distribution have particular characteristics such as size and rotational speed. Your HVAC company should see to it that your system pressure is properly controlled, and if not, recommend the most effective solutions.
9. Air Filters
Among the very important components of your HVAC systems are the air filters. These filters perform the highly crucial task of capturing any particles present in the air and preventing them from entering the conditioned air stream. Changing your filters regularly is something you as a homeowner can handle on your own, in addition to some other basic maintenance tasks.
Filters can be of many types, sizes, and configurations, depending on the application. They can be made of different media such as paper, sponge, foam, spun glass, and pleated woven bags. You can also select the electrostatic particle arresting types of filters that include electrically charged filter media that effectively attract and capture unwanted particles. You may want to try the popular activated charcoal filters that also eliminate any unwanted smells. They should always be used with a particle filter. The correct choice of filters can influence your health as well as that of your family and should be discussed with your HVAC technician.
Be sure to do a little research on your own if you aim to find the best HVAC company for your house evaluation and subsequent maintenance, repair or new installation. Therefore, when you search your area for an HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, be mindful of the points discussed above. The technician should be able to answer all your questions.
Finished sorting the results of HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me? Here’s what’s next.
Once you’ve searched HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me, reviewed your results and narrowed your options down to a few choices using the above criteria, it’s time to make some phone calls. Be ready to pay careful attention to the entire process, from making the first call until finishing the installation process. As you speak to each HVAC service expert ask them some critical questions based on your current needs. You could begin by figuring out the correct size of the unit for your house. You will also want to see whether the warranties provided would cover labor, materials, and equipment. Also, inquire if the promises made will be given in written form, how the warranty work will be done, and if there will be an expense to you.
What began with typing HVAC company near me or air conditioner service near me and clicking search might be a long process before you can enjoy the smooth and efficient working of your HVAC units. But whether the process is tedious and painful or seamless and convenient will all depend on who you hire as your furnace and air conditioning services expert. For a personally satisfying experience from a customer-focused HVAC company with great communication and excellent ratings in the Woodstock and Canton area in Georgia, call Russell Heating and Air today.
9 Important Furnace Maintenance Tips Every Home Owner Should Know
Every homeowner should understand that basic furnace maintenance isn’t rocket science and should not feel overly intimidating. Replacing or repairing HVAC units can be expensive. If your system breaks down, it could leave your home without heat for days or weeks. Maintenance should be performed about every three months to avoid common problems with your furnace. If you want to keep your HVAC system efficient and working smoothly, take care of your heating system by following a few essential furnace maintenance tips.
Furnace maintenance tips not enough? Get your unit back on track with a furnace check-up from Russell Heating and Air.
1. Make sure you switch off the furnace before handling maintenance tasks.
Gas appliances could put your life in danger if mishandled, so be sure you are exercising safety precautions while inspecting the furnace. While following any furnace maintenance tips that expose you to electricity, gas, or moving parts, ensure that the HVAC system is turned off. Don’t hesitate to call for an HVAC expert technician if anything seems amiss.
2. Clean or change your filter.
The air filter keeps the air clean by accumulating dirt, dust, airborne particles, and other debris. This vital component of your system needs regular attention. If the furnace seems slow to heat your home, it may be an indication of a clogged filter. A clean filter uses up to 15% less energy than a dirty filter. It significantly improves HVAC system efficiency and performance and results in a lower utility bill. The filter should be cleaned or replaced about once a month. When it comes to essential furnace maintenance tips that anyone can do, changing the air filter is at the top of the list.
3. Examine the pilot light.
Monitoring the furnace’s pilot light can give you clues as to how well your furnace is working. The color of the flame can alert you to dangerous problems with your furnace because it indicates whether or not the gas is burning in the proper ratio. If the pilot light is blue, then your furnace is burning fuel normally. If the flame is yellow or any other color, the furnace is malfunctioning. In the interest of your family’s safety, an HVAC professional should be contacted immediately.
4. Test the thermostat.
Checking off items on your furnace maintenance tips list should always include a thermostat test. Homeowners can check for furnace problems by adjusting the temperature of the thermostat. Set it to a warmer temperature, then listen for sounds from your furnace. If you hear the furnace rumbling but heat isn’t coming through your vents, this indicates a furnace malfunction.
5. Inspect fan components.
You can take a look at the furnace fan components to check for any obvious issues or obstructions. A detailed examination of fan components is best done by the well-trained eye of an HVAC professional. HVAC service pros know precisely what to look for and can spot issues that are often missed by others. The experts at Russell Heating and Air can perform a maintenance check and keep your family warm this winter. They can also provide some additional furnace maintenance tips that are specific to your system.
6. Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear.
Sometimes following furnace maintenance tips will take you outside. If trees or shrubs surround your outdoor unit, ensure the unit is unobstructed. Make sure leaves or other debris do not get inside the unit. This may require cutting back branches, vines, or brush. Keep a clearance of two feet surrounding the unit to keep it running at top performance.
7. Clean the condensate drain line.
Every HVAC unit has a condensate drain line. If your system has difficulty performing, it could be a sign that the drain line is clogged with sediment or debris. The solution to this problem is to clean the drain line. You will need to detach the line and pour in a cup of vinegar or bleach to clear out the build-up of impurities like mold, algae, or dirt. If this item on the list of furnace maintenance tips makes you think twice about doing it yourself, don’t hesitate to call in a professional from Russell Heating and Air for help.
8. Ensure the evaporator and condenser coils are free of dirt or debris.
Both the indoor and outdoor units of the HVAC system have coils. Dirt and debris can block the coils and lead to improper functioning. Therefore, it\’s a good idea to keep your condenser coils and evaporator free of matter that can inhibit their performance. Be sure to follow the coil cleaning instructions in your unit’s user manual. If the coil is damaged, it may lead to an expensive repair.
9. Check air ducts for damage or restricted airflow.
The final item in this list of furnace maintenance tips is another simple one that often gets missed. Walk through your house while the unit is running and make sure the airflow coming through the vents is strong and consistent. If any vents seem weak, ensure the vents are fully open and not being obstructed. Make sure that not too many vents are closed, as this may cause airflow problems as well. If it feels like the air is weak or restricted, or if you see insulation debris blowing through your vents, it’s a sign of damaged or torn ducts.
Does Your Furnace Need a Maintenance Check-Up?
These furnace maintenance tips are a great start for any homeowner. However, the thorough inspection and maintenance of HVAC systems can only be done by a knowledgeable expert. Call our furnace maintenance professionals today to avoid being left out in the cold. We provide 24/7 emergency services in Woodstock and Canton, GA.
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Every homeowner should understand that basic furnace maintenance isn’t rocket science and should not feel overly intimidating. Replacing or repairing HVAC units can be expensive. If your system breaks down, it could leave your home without heat for days or weeks. Maintenance should be performed about every three months to avoid common problems with your