Why Routine Cleaning is Critical to Air Conditioning Maintenance

Why You Need AC Cleaning

As days become sunnier, hotter, and longer, air conditioners across the country must come alive to offer necessary cooling. Millions of households in Canada rely on air conditioning in the summer. However, AC units cannot work efficiently without a bit of care and attention. That's why routine cleaning is critical to air conditioning maintenance.

Regular cleaning can help ensure that your cooling unit works optimally and your indoor air quality is pristine at all times. Your air conditioner will serve you diligently for many years if you are serious about AC cleaning and maintenance.

Here are some reasons why cleaning your air conditioning system is essential for AC maintenance.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Pollen, dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants are every air conditioner's worst nightmare. Moreover, they tend to build up over time within the cooling unit itself, clogging important components like coils and filters.

Accumulated debris also provides food for bacteria and fungi that live in warm environments with ample moisture. As airborne particles settle down upon surfaces, they also act as catalysts for the development of mould spores. Besides reducing your air quality, these contaminants pose health risks. It may range from minor allergies to asthma attacks and respiratory infections.

Cleaning an AC system helps reduce airborne contaminants. They may be hiding in gaps around the coils, around the ducts, and inside the evaporator and condenser.

Maintain AC Efficiency

Dirty air conditioners tend to lose considerable efficiency. It means that they use much more energy than usual to perform their cooling functions. Regular AC cleaning helps improve indoor air quality, reduces energy, and boosts performance.

Unclogged cooling coils ensure that air passes through the unit more efficiently, with less resistance. As a result, it promotes improved airflow and reduces wear and tear of all components.

Clean evaporator and condenser fins allow your cooling system to exchange heat with outdoor air. It reduces the load on compressors and fans. The result is enhanced cooling power and improved performance.

Prevent AC Breakdowns

Dirty components, clogged coils, and malfunctioning fans are a recipe for trouble in your cooling system. As a result, they contribute to breakdowns that can be costly to fix or replace.

Inspections by licensed technicians uncover issues with poor airflow early on. It allows you to address them before they create more significant problems. Poor AC maintenance and cleaning can also cause electrical issues. Therefore, it's crucial to hire a professional for tune-ups and inspections.

Protect the AC Warranty

Manufacturers of cooling units offer warranties against defects in materials for between 1 and 10 years. The exact warranty period varies from product to product and manufacturer to manufacturer.

Keeping your air conditioner clean and in good working order helps protect the warranty, reducing the risk of defects. That means you can enjoy factory-approved cooling power for longer without shelling out big bucks for high repair bills.

Maintain Healthy Lungs

Your HVAC system acts as your home's respiratory system, especially if you have a duct network with central AC and an air furnace. Maintaining your HVAC system is crucial to keep it working in good condition. Otherwise, dust will inevitably build up in the system. As a result, it may lower its efficiency and distribute the dust through the house and straight into your respiratory system.

How to Maintain Your AC System

You can follow the tips highlighted below to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently:

• Clean or change out the air filters in your AC every month, or at whichever interval the unit's manufacturer specifies. Replacing filters is a simple task requiring no technical knowledge or expertise. When the filters get clogged with dirt and dust, the air conditioner uses more energy and works harder. Moreover, that debris ends up getting circulated throughout the house. As a result, it lowers air quality and aggravating respiratory illnesses and allergies among your family members.

• Clean and service the entire unit annually. An HVAC professional should handle the cleaning. The cleaning will involve a thorough inspection of the system. It ensures everything is working and the internal components are clean and flawless. Your HVAC system can lose up to 5% efficiency each year without professional inspection and maintenance.

• Remember to clean the ducts. If the air conditioner and furnace are the lungs, the vents are the blood vessels that transport clean air around the house. Ducts don't need regular cleaning, but you should have them checked every once in a while. Make sure they aren't harbouring a staggering amount of dust and debris or leaking or broken at any point.

• Invest in a ventilator. A ventilator will help your HVAC system expel old and stale air and bring in fresh and clean air from the outside. With this, you don't recycle the same dirty air through the house over and over again.

Routine Cleaning is Critical to Air Conditioning Maintenance - Conclusion

Cleaning an HVAC system is easy and reasonably priced. You can compare the cost of cleaning your AC unit to the expenses you incur for repairs and replacement of a dirty, poorly maintained AC system.

The decision to schedule maintenance today will save you money and headaches in the future. Countless benefits are offered with proper HVAC maintenance.

If you have any queries regarding AC maintenance or want to book an appointment to have your AC cleaned, call your local HVAC expert today!

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/why-routine-cleaning-is-critical-to-air-conditioning-maintenance/

How to Clean Your Air Conditioner and Stay Cool This Summer

Cleaning Your AC For Summer

Have you noticed your integral central air conditioning unit working harder these days? It's time to give it some attention in the cleaning department. Keep in mind that an air conditioner stays outside, exposed to the elements, leaves, dust, bugs, etc. That's why it's essential to clean your air conditioner.

We recommend that you fully clean your air conditioner at least once per year. You should clean it thoroughly at the start of spring to get rid of accumulated dirt and grime. And just as fall nears its end, give your AC a minor touch-up to keep it clean during winter. Why is it important to clean your AC, you may ask. Well, you will ensure your AC runs as efficiently as possible, which, in turn, lowers your utility bills. Additionally, an efficiently running AC does not overwork, which means parts will not wear down quickly.

While being vital, cleaning your AC can be a daunting task. It isn't as easy as wiping your floor, cleaning your bathroom, or dusting your living room. It's a more involved task. If you're interested in professional AC cleaning, make an appointment with Furnace Repair Calgary today!

However, if you want to DIY your way to an efficiently running AC, here is a trusted step-by-step guide to clean your Air Conditioner.

Related: MERV Rating Explained

Turn off Your AC

Shutting down your AC is the first and most crucial step to take. A typical AC uses a high voltage power supply running at 220 or 240-volts. It can be pretty dangerous if you're not careful.

To cut power from your AC, start by turning it off at the thermostat. The second step is to go to the circuit breaker box and turn off the breaker connecting to your AC outlet. Shutting down the AC at the circuit breaker ensures no electricity flows to your AC. And it is safe to open up.

Open AC Unit 

Your AC should be closed up pretty well to protect its components from the elements. To this end, open the door on your outdoor AC blower, giving you access to the evaporator coils. With some AC make and models, you need to remove the foil duct tape before unscrewing the screws that secure the door in place.

Please note that opening doing this yourself may void your warranty. Only proceed if you've confirmed that opening this part of your AC will not void your warranty.

Clean Your Air Conditioner's Coils: Three Alternatives 

AC evaporator coils are responsible for the actual cooling you experience in your home. Typically, the coils consist of copper. They absorb the heat inside your home and produce the cool that the AC supplies into your home's ductwork.

Evaporator coils are an essential component of the evaporation process. Water condenses on the evaporator coil during humid conditions, extracting moisture from your home. This component plays a vital role in keeping the coils clean. Dirty coils can consume 30% more energy compared to clean coils.

After opening the unit's door, you can access the evaporator coils. There are different ways you can clean the AC coils. We'll discuss all of the options you have. It would help if you also had the following tools:

- Coil cleaner spray (readily available at many hardware stores)

- Warm water and dish soap

- A soft brush to dust off coils

- Compressed air for the harder-to-reach crevasses

Evaporator Coil Cleaning Option #1: Using Brush Cleaning 

If your Ac's evaporator coils are relatively clean, you can opt to use a soft brush for the cleaning process. Ensure you use a soft-bristled brush that doesn't scratch the coils. However, the bristles should be firm enough to extract any grime and debris that's stuck in the coils.

Use a back-and-forth motion to remove all the dirt and debris until it's clean.

Evaporator Coil Cleaning Option #2: Air Compressor Cleaning

You can remove dirt and debris from the evaporator coils with an air compressor. The powerful compressed air is effective yet safe. Direct the air compressor nozzle from the clean side to the dirty side. Additionally, ensure you maintain consistent air pressure for the compressed air to be adequate.

Ensure you wear eye protection.

Evaporator Coil Cleaning Option #3: Warm Water and Detergent

A mixture of standard dish soap and warm water will work well to remove grime from your coil. Add the detergent-warm water to a spray bottle and then apply it to your coils.

Let the mixture sit for a little while before scrubbing the grime. Giving the solution some time to settle allows it to break up the debris. After scouring the grime, rinse any soapy water that remains.

After cleaning the coils, it's time to tackle the rest of the AC.

Inspect the Drain Plug

The drain plug allows the air conditioner to dehumidify your home during humid days. Without regular cleaning, it clogs up from mould and algae growth.

Most modern AC units come with a sensor to detect any clog. As such, they shut down until the clog is cleared, thereby protecting your AC. However, older AC will continue to operate, causing water to drip through the ceiling and vents as the water has nowhere else to go. If you have water dripping from your vents ceiling, you should immediately turn your AC off and call an HVAC technician.

To unclog a drain plug:

1. Locate the drip pan at the bottom of the AC.
2. Slide it out and extract the water using a wet/dry vacuum.
3. If you have access to a compressor, use it instead.

It's more powerful and effective.

If the air compressor cannot force the debris from the drip pan, it's time to call professional help.

Clean The Area Around Your Air Conditioning Unit 

Hose down the dirt and cobwebs outside of the unit. Dirt, grime, cobwebs, anything that attaches to the AC unit might obstruct airflow, causing your AC to work inefficiently.

Remember to inspect around the base of the AC unit. Dirt can settle underneath the unit, lifting a part of the unit. An unlevel AC can cause damage, resulting in expensive repairs down the road.

Replace Your AC Filters

The final cleaning AC task is to replace the filter. You should replace these filters every three months, especially if your dog sheds a lot.

If you have a ductless mini-split AC, you can vacuum its filter and soak it to remove debris.

Clean Your Air Conditioner Today

It would help if you were diligent about cleaning your AC twice a year. Otherwise, the dirt and grime that find their way into the AC system will damage the unit, causing costly repairs and reducing the life expectancy.

If you have skipped the cleaning task and the dirt and grime in the AC are bad, consider calling an HVAC professional to give it a proper cleaning.For professional AC maintenance and cleaning, contact Furnace Repair Calgary today.

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/how-to-clean-your-air-conditioner-and-stay-cool-this-summer/

How to Choose the Right Size Central Air Conditioning System

Choosing The Right AC Size

If you are looking to buy a new central air-conditioning system, there are several factors that you need to consider. These include the brand's reputation, efficiency rating, as well as your budget. In addition, you need to choose a unit that is the perfect size for your home to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency. A model that is either too big or too small can leave you dealing with high energy bills or inadequate climate control. Following are expert tips from the team at Furnace Repair Calgary on how to choose the right size central air conditioning system for your home:

Determining the Right Size Central Air Conditioning System

Did you know that heating and cooling accounts for 40% of the average Canadian household's energy budget? Canadians spend hundreds of millions of dollars annually to power their air conditioners. It is thus essential that you seek savings anywhere you can - and finding the right-sized unit for your home is a great place to start.

An AC unit that is too small will need to work harder and longer to achieve the desired temperature while also consuming excess power. On the other hand, an AC unit that is too big will frequently cycle on and off, resulting in excessive wear and tear and not to mention high energy bills to pay for the extra cooling power that you do not need.

What is more, if your AC unit only runs at irregular intervals, it won't correctly draw out humidity from the air, leaving you uncomfortable regardless of where you set the thermostat.

Calculating Your Load

Determining the perfect size range for your AC unit can be pretty complicated. Besides figuring out the square footage of your home, there are several other factors that you need to consider. These include the following:

• Amount of sunlight that your home receives.
• Several floors required air conditioning.
• The layout of your rooms.
• Climate.

We refer to all these factors as the "load."

Ensure that you compare your load to the cooling capacity of the AC unit that you want to buy. We express the size of an air conditioning unit in tons, which measures how much heat it can remove in an hour. For example, a typical AC unit is one ton and cools 12,000 BTUs/hr.

Considering that there are many factors to consider when determining the number of tons you need to meet your load requirements, you must consult the manufacturer or HVAC professional to identify your sweet spot.

Contact a Central Air Conditioning Specialist

If you need further assistance choosing or installing the perfectly sized central air conditioning system, contact an HVAC professional today at Furnace Repair Calgary.

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/how-to-choose-the-right-size-central-air-conditioning-system/

Reasons To Consider Air Conditioner Maintenance

Why Your Air Conditioner Needs Regular Maintenance

Like every mechanical equipment, air conditioner maintenance is essential to perform optimally with fewer to no breakdowns. Many homeowners, however, only remember about their AC if/when it starts to malfunction or has broken down. Having your AC checked and serviced before the hot season rolls on, or scheduling regular servicing with a reputable HVAC company, can help prevent such.

Among other benefits, scheduling annual AC maintenance means you can choose the most convenient time for exercise. The technicians will also call you ahead of time to remind you of the scheduled service, giving you enough time to plan appropriately. In addition, the technicians will detect and fix any issue with the AC when there's still time.

Most technicians will schedule the tune-up when the weather is still favourable to reduce the risk of exposing your family to the blaring heat and avoid mid-summer breakdowns. Here are some of the reasons you, too, should consider scheduling annual air conditioner servicing and maintenance.

It Saves You Time and Money

Even the most expensive and well-designed air conditioner breaks down. Lack of proper servicing and maintenance could cause its efficiency to suffer and even break down when you need it most. However, scheduling annual maintenance allows technicians to catch and fix most issues enabling the AC to continue functioning properly through the season.

Regular maintenance translates to significant time, money, and energy savings in the long run.

Restore Its Performance

A neglected AC system won't perform the same way it did when new. Accumulation of dirt and grime on coils, ducts, vents, fans, etc., often takes a toll on the system's performance. A technician will remove any dirt and fix or replace loose or broken parts to restore performance.

Improve System Efficiency

Like performance, a neglected system will be less efficient, wasting energy in the process. The system thus needs to be kept in tip-top condition to restore or improve its efficiency.

Diagnose Problems Early

Most mechanical systems (the AC included) will show tell-tale signs of a looming problem before it happens. Some warning signs include the inability to keep the space cool, strange sounds and noises from the system, or a misbehaving thermostat. Any trained technician will catch most of these issues during their scheduled visits and fix them on time.

Eliminate The Risk of Water Damage

The air conditioner produces water (through condensation) as it strives to keep the space cool. The water drains through the tube system to the drain pan for proper disposal. The drain pan can be a magnet for dirt, dust, algae, and bacteria. Hence, should be drained and cleaned correctly. Failure to do this could see water backing up and spilling over to the house and other structures, causing water damage.

Improve Its Lifespan

The AC, like your car, needs proper care to not only work as it should but also improve its durability. A neglected system is more likely to break down and die prematurely, while a well-serviced and cared for AC will last for many years.

Scheduling annual servicing could save you lots of money and headache in the long run.

Replace Only When Necessary

Although hiring a technician to service your AC regularly will give it more life, there comes a time when you have to upgrade. It thus allows you enough time to save up for the new AC, hence no surprises.

It is never too late to start caring for your AC. Call your preferred HVAC company to book an appointment today.

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/reasons-to-consider-air-conditioner-maintenance/

8 Common Causes of An Air Conditioner Breakdown

Why Does An Air Conditioner Malfunction?

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes warmer weather and longer days. As a result, your air conditioner will have to work much harder and run longer to maintain the perfect temperature within your home. And unfortunately, air conditioners tend to malfunction or break down during this period due to various factors. In this article, we will look at some of the common causes of an air conditioner breakdown and the best repair solutions for them.

Dirty HVAC Filter

A dirty filter is perhaps the most prevalent reason for HVAC system failures. Typically, HVAC filters last for about 30 days. However, given that the AC system runs longer cycles during the hot season, the filter may need to be checked more frequently and returned much earlier than the recommended 30 days.

If your AC system isn't working correctly, in most cases, all that is usually needed is replacing the dirty filter with a clean one to restore optimal performance.

Thermostat Malfunction

The thermostat is responsible for regulating your HVAC system. To ensure that your thermostat is working correctly, start by checking the batteries and ensure that the thermostat is switched on and set to 'cool' mode.

If your AC unit still doesn't work correctly after completing all these steps, you can reach out to our team at Furnace Repair Calgary, and we will help further troubleshoot the issue over the phone.

Issues with the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is responsible for removing heat and humidity from the air that passes through the air filters, thus cooling the air that enters your home. The evaporator coil is located indoors, either inside the air handler or attached to the furnace of your HVAC system. An evaporator coil covered in dirt won't properly absorb the heat and moisture, which means that your indoor atmosphere will be less than conducive.

If you suspect that your evaporator coil is dirty, have a technician come and check it.

Dirty AC Condenser Coils

Given that the condenser coils are outside your home, dirt and seasonal debris always find them. If the condenser coils become too dirty, it will lead to high utility bills.

Clean off the AC condenser coil using a water hose. If there is too much build-up of dirt, you need to call out an HVAC service technician who will clean it professionally.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks are another common reason for AC breakdowns. A refrigerant leak leads to increased temperature and humidity levels, which cause your home to become uncomfortable. Fortunately, refrigerant leaks are easily detectable with a leak test.

If your AC unit isn't cooling off your home as it should and you suspect that you have a refrigerant leak, you need to contact our office for a service call. Our technician will diagnose your system to determine whether a refrigerant leak has indeed occurred. If a refrigerant line requires repairs, contact Furnace Repair Calgary. The cost of repairs primarily depends on the leak's location and the amount of lost refrigerant.

Clogged Drainage Line

Like the HVAC filter, the drainage line can become clogged due to dirt, dust, and lint build-up. Water will fill the drain pan and leak out when the drain becomes clogged. A drain clog can potentially damage your AC system and furnace. In addition, the leaking water can damage other objects around your system.

Depending on how the drain is connected or runs, you can unclog it. But if it is hard to reach or you don't know how to go about it, consider reaching out to our office. We will also perform a check-up of your system to identify any other potential issues.

Faulty Capacitor

The capacitor powers the motors that drive fan and compressor motors. The start capacitor sends the initial jolt that starts up the motor. The run capacitor keeps the motor running by sending a series of jolts. If the capacitor goes wrong or is weak, your AC unit won't work correctly or may not work at all.

Your best option is to call out a residential HVAC technician who will be able to determine whether the capacitor is wrong and if your cooling system needs a replacement.

Pitted or Burnt Out Contactor

The contactor supplies voltage to your fan and compressor motor. If the contactor is pitted or burnt, the fan and compressor motor won't get the proper voltage to power up. Thus, your system won't run correctly or at all.

If a pitted or burnt-out contactor is the root cause of your AC issue, a technician from Furnace Repair Calgary will diagnose the problem and offer an AC repair solution to get the system back up and running.

Maintenance Manages Common Causes Of An Air Conditioner Breakdown

Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to ensure your HVAC system's efficiency and service life. It also helps to prevent unexpected and premature AC breakdowns.

Our team of expert HVAC technicians provides quality, effective, and comprehensive AC solutions to all your AC problems. Call us today at (403) 775-6800 to schedule your service.

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/common-causes-of-an-air-conditioner-breakdown/

5 Steps to Choose a Central Air Conditioner For Your Home

How to Choose A Central AC

Purchasing a new central air conditioner is one of the most daunting tasks a homeowner might engage, especially if you're a novice in dealing with HVAC equipment.

Make the right choice, and you'll enjoy a comfortable home, a reliable home conditioning system that does not break down every so often, and potentially lower energy bills. On the other end of the spectrum, when you make a wrong choice, you can expect high energy bills, high installation and maintenance fees, costly untimely repairs, and worse still, an HVAC system that is ineffective and inefficient in cooling your home.

Do you want to learn to find the perfect option? Here are our four steps that can simplify your HVAC buying endeavour and significantly help you make the right choice for your home and current (and future) needs.

Related: What does MERV Rating mean?

Step 1: Learn About The Basics of A Central Air Conditioner

First, you should learn about the basics of AC installation to ensure a central AC will suit your needs.

A central AC system requires your home to have an air handler or a furnace. Additionally, it needs properly-sized ductwork to distribute the conditioned air. Installing a central AC in a house with pre-existing ductwork will cost anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000, depending on the unit's efficiency, size, and AC type you purchase. Your personal preference will also influence the cost of the AC.

However, if your home does not have pre-existing AC ductwork, the project will cost a lot more.

Let's delve into the steps you should take when choosing a central AC.

Step 2: What Size Air Conditioner Do You Require?

The question of sizing is a crucial question you should answer before everything else. Numerous considerations that influence your energy bills and comfort can help you determine the AC unit that will perfectly suit your home. The most prominent concern is how big your home is.

However, it would help if you considered influencing elements such as:

- How old your house is

- Ductwork size and airflow

- Construction materials in your home

- Insulation amount, efficiency, age, and type

- How many windows do you have and their sizes

- How much solar radiation does your house receive, and where the radiation strikes

With myriad considerations in mind, even homes with identical floor plans and building materials will have different cooling needs. If trees surround your property, they provide a natural shade, which a property devoid of trees does not experience. A house surrounded by trees is naturally cooler, while a house without trees is naturally warmer.

Such simple factors go a long way in determining your AC's effectiveness and, ultimately, the most suitable size for your home.

We express the power of AC in tons, which describes the AC's cooling capacity. To determine a rough estimate of the AC size you need, you should compare the AC cooling capacity with your home's square footage.

A 1-ton AC system can provide ample cooling for 600 to 800 square feet. However, the vast majority of the lower tonnage ACs start at 1.5 tons, increasing in tonnage from there. The average size of single-family homes in Alberta is about 1,520 square feet. For such a house, you need a 2-ton AC.

What Are The Consequences Of Buying And Installing the Wrong AC Unit Size?

Your choice of AC size will impact its price, energy efficiency, energy expenses, comfort, and the equipment's life.

Installing an undersized unit will not keep up with the humidity and heat. On the other hand, an oversized unit will quickly cool your home and not provide ample time to dehumidify your home. Furthermore, under-sizing and oversizing your AC unit will cause uneven air distribution, higher maintenance and repair costs, and higher energy usage.

Step 3: Which Type Of Central AC Will Suit You Best

The second step is to choose a central AC type. In Canada, there are three common types of central ACs on the market. Their differentiating qualities are their energy efficiencies and price points.

Single-Stage Condensers

These types of ACs operate at full capacity, or they're off. A single-stage AC can be a significant entry-point AC. However, if you want better efficiency, this unit will not meet your needs.

Dual-Stage Condensers

The dual-stage unit, as the name suggests, operates in two modes. They can run at a lower or higher rate depending on the prevailing weather. The use of two settings helps you run a more efficient central AC compared to the single-stage type. However, they are much cheaper than the variable speed type.

When switching to a dual-stage condenser, ensure your HVAC technician installs a unit compatible with the air handler or indoor furnace, thermostat, and evaporator coil.

Variable Speed Condensers

Variable speed ACs are designed for longer runs rather than turning on and off as the conditions change. As such, they can run all day while offering better energy efficiency than the two AC types above of ACs. However, variable speed ACs are the priciest.

To install the variable speed AC, you must have a matched system. A matched system is an AC unit where the condenser, air handler or furnace, thermostat, and evaporator coil are designed and made to function together.

Step 4: Match Energy Efficiency Rating To Your Needs

Generally, the more an AC unit is energy-efficient, the more you will pay upfront. On the other hand, the more energy-efficient an AC is, the more it will reduce your monthly energy bills. Increased efficiency also translates to a reduced carbon footprint.

As you can appreciate, energy efficiency will also influence the budget. As such, you should understand how to measure energy efficiency and balance it with budgetary needs.

How Do We Measure The Energy Efficiency Of ACs?

We use the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) to determine the energy efficiency of an air conditioner. The SEER uses several seasonal temperatures to determine how efficient your AC is, much like how we measure kilometre-per-litre in vehicles.

However, some ACs use the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The EER measurement is similar to the SEER, except it uses the steady outdoor temperature when calculating the AC efficiency.

An AC with high EER and SEER ratings is more energy-efficient, which means your home will be more comfortable.

Popular ACs in Alberta range between 13 and 16 SEER. You can choose an energy efficiency level that suits your needs and personal circumstances.

Step 5: Select A Provider

Having understood considerations such as AC sizes, types, and energy efficiency, it's time to choose your provider.

An AC technician should be knowledgeable and experienced in handling HVAC systems. Importantly, they should be able to walk you through the steps we've discussed above.

Before signing on the dotted line, we recommend that you learn more about the company, their installation services, payment options, services cost, and the warranties they offer.

Additionally, your installer must have the following licenses:

- Gas license

- ESA permits

- Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) license

- A 313a refrigeration or 313d residential air conditioning license

Choose The Best Central Air Conditioner - Conclusion

If you're looking for experienced AC technicians in Alberta, our licensed HVAC experts are ready to help you find the right cooling system that will suit your budget. Contact us today for your free in-house consultation and estimate.

https://furnace-repair-calgary.ca/how-to-choose-a-central-air-conditioner-for-your-home/

How To Troubleshoot AC Issues: Tips and Tricks

How to Troubleshoot Your Air Conditioner

Today, almost every household depends on the AC system to keep their home cool and comfortable through the hot summer season. The AC, like everything else, is prone to problems and can break down when least expected. So, a little knowledge of how to troubleshoot AC issues is essential.

A minor issue with the AC, say fans not turning on or a water leak, can be a cause for concern, a reason it should be diagnosed and fixed immediately to prevent a breakdown.

Although experts recommend having your AC unit serviced at least once every year (just before summer) to keep it functioning correctly, there are times when issues will pop up nonetheless. Your AC might have been working correctly one moment, then suddenly start malfunctioning the next.

What you do next can be the difference between the AC breaking down and saving it. Has your AC system been misbehaving lately but can't put the finger on the central problem? Here are a few tips on troubleshooting and fixing the issue quickly.

Check the Thermostat

A malfunctioning or inaccurate setting on the thermostat can be the reason the AC system isn't cooling your home as it should. For this reason, the first step should be to check the thermostat before proceeding to the AC unit itself. Checking the thermostat is especially crucial for AC systems with smart thermostats, as these tend to fail at times.

The unit won't start altogether if the thermostat fails to auto-start the AC. Check to confirm if the thermostat is working, and if possible, reboot it. You might also want to replace the thermostat's batteries (if you haven't done so in a long time).

Check The Circuit Breakers

If the AC still can't turn ON, the chances are the circuit breaker tripped. A tripped circuit breaker can happen if there's an unexpected load or power surge in your area, causing the breaker to trip. Try resetting the breaker to see if it solves the problem. Should the breaker continue tripping, there's a problem with the electrical system or circuitry and a reason to involve or call a certified electrician.

Check the Air Filter

If the AC turns on but cannot cool the house adequately, you should check for a clogged air filter or a frozen unit. A blocked air filter makes it almost impossible for cool air to pass through, resulting in higher-than-normal energy bills. If you can't remember the last time you had the filters checked or replaced, it's time to do so. Check the filters to confirm their state, and switch to clean or new ones if they seem opaque and dirty.

Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Most AC systems have outdoor and indoor units. If unchecked for some time, dirt, grime, or even leaves will cover the unit. Take a trip outside to see if this is the case. If dirt or leaves cover the AC system, it needs proper cleaning. While you might be comfortable cleaning the unit yourself, it's probably best to call an expert. HVAC technicians have the technical know-how and materials/equipment required for the job and are less likely to damage the system.

Inspect The Air Vents

Blocked air vents can cause the AC unit to start malfunctioning, leak, freeze, or even shut down unexpectedly. Dust and grime can collect in these vents producing a thick 'mattress' that blocks are from circulating correctly. Check every room and outlet to see if the ducts are open and note any blocked ones. Sometimes all it takes to unblock air vents are to vacuum them or use pressurized air.

Be sure to move any objects that might be blocking the air vents, such as pet beds, curtains, clothing, or even furniture. Although you might not notice at first, blocked air vents can cause uneven cooling and even strain the AC in the long run. Blocked air will be most notable with increasing energy bills.

How To Troubleshoot AC Issues - Call the Experts

If you've followed every step on this list but the AC unit still won't work, it's time to call the pros. Call your preferred AC technicians for professional troubleshooting and have any problems fixed. Although the technician might be able to get it working again, they will advise you accordingly on how to care for the same and start saving for a new one.

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Ways to Protect Your Central Air Conditioning System in the Winter

Your home's central AC system is finally getting some much-needed rest this fall, but don't let your guard down. Winter is fast approaching, and you'll need to put your system in preventative care mode before the first blizzard hits. You should know some innovative ways to protect your central air conditioning system in the winter.

While your AC unit may not be in use, this doesn't mean you can forget about it. You should take preventative measures to ensure that your AC unit will stay in tip-top shape, ready to give you a cool breeze once summer arrives once more. This post will outline some clever ways to protect your central AC system in the winter.

Central AC Units Are Tougher Than You Think

Manufacturers construct central AC units to last the harshest weather conditions. Some people may even enjoy their AC units without taking any preventative measures. However, some environmental factors such as debris, water, moisture build-up, and even ice can cause damage to your AC unit that may cost you more than just a few bucks. With that, it still pays to understand what you need to do to protect your central AC unit.

Even if the winter weather isn't particularly harsh where you live, it's still important to safeguard against any risks such as heavy snow accumulations or freezing temperatures. These precautions will protect your central air conditioning system from getting damaged when it's not in use and can help extend its life.

The first and the most important thing you have to do is turn off your unit during the winter months. Not only will this help save you some money on your energy bill, but it also prevents you from accidentally turning it on during the winter. Doing so may result in costly damages, especially when your unit starts to cycle water, which may eventually turn into ice.

Clean Up Debris

As mentioned earlier, the cold environment won't cause any damage to your central air conditioning system. However, outdoor debris can still be a significant nuisance and may cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to. Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other kinds of debris can easily get caught in the condenser coil and prevent your system from cooling properly.

Before you put your AC unit in hibernate mode and before covering it up, make sure to clean up the debris around it. Cleaning will ensure that your system can breathe easily and won't have any trouble starting back up in the spring. Additionally, choose a tarp or an AC cover at least 1 foot above the ground. This way, moisture won't build up, and wild animals can't use it as temporary shelter.

Protect It from Water Damage

Water is a significant threat to your central air conditioner system. Water may seep into the condenser coil and damage it, or even worse, it can accumulate inside the unit's housing and cause irreversible problems. For example, standing water and ice accumulations can prevent your AC unit from turning on once spring finally arrives.

Be mindful of where you place your AC unit and ensure that it's away from water drainage areas such as gutters, downspouts, and any other sources of possible water damage. If you can't find a suitable location for your central air conditioning system, make sure to place some protection around the entire unit to prevent any water accumulation.

Continually Test Your System

Once you've covered your central air conditioning system and turned it off, make sure to check for any leaks or hazards periodically throughout the winter. There's no guarantee that water won't seep into your system in some fashion, especially when ice begins to melt.

To protect your cooling system against leakage (if it does happen), place several pans of water around the housing unit. If any moisture starts to appear, you'll know that there's a problem and can get it taken care of before the damage gets more severe.

Never Blow Out the Coils

You've probably seen this method used by your neighbours or friends to get rid of the ice, dirt, or other debris on their AC unit. While it may seem like a plausible solution, you should never blow out the coils on your central AC system.

Doing so can damage the fins and cause them to bend, which will eventually affect the performance of your unit. Instead, check your AC system every once in a while to ensure clean and free from any debris.

Cover Your AC Unit

As mentioned earlier, you should take proper care of your AC unit, especially when it's not in use for the next few months. One way to do so is by covering your central air conditioning system.

While tarp covers are typical, you can also try using an insulated cover. It will prevent snow and ice from accumulating on the condenser and the evaporator during harsh winter weather.

Regardless of what type of cover you use, make sure that it's completely secure and will not fall off in the middle of a snowstorm.

Chill Your Air Ducts

When you turn your AC unit off during the winter months, make sure to take the same precautions with your air ducts. You should also ensure that all cooling coils are completely dry before covering them up for the season.

While these precautions may seem like an inconvenience, it's best to maintain clean and clear systems to prevent major problems such as expensive unit repairs and AC system malfunctions during the cold weather.

When there is less humidity in your home, you can turn on your central AC unit for a few hours every week to keep it from collecting dust and dirt. It will also help avoid internal rusting and protect your AC components from corrosion during the winter months.

Should you need any help protecting your central air conditioning system this winter, don't hesitate to contact an experienced and qualified HVAC technician.

Protect Your Central Air Conditioning System in the Winter - Conclusion

It's no secret that the winter months can take a toll on your central air conditioning system. Protecting your unit against hazards such as ice, snow, and extreme temperatures is quite challenging since several factors are considered. However, with these simple tips, you should keep your central cooling system in top shape even during the harsh winter weather.

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