Spring Cleaning Tips for Your HVAC System
Now that spring is here, it is time to dust off the grime, start your heavy-duty cleanup, and prepare for summer. Don’t forget to include your HVAC system in the things you have to clean up this season. Here are some spring cleaning tips for your HVAC system. Read on to learn what you need to do to prepare your air conditioner or heat pump for the cooling season.
Spring Cleaning Tips for Your HVAC System
1. Clean the Filter
During the cold winter months, your system worked extremely hard. It tried to contain airborne contaminants such as dust, hair, and pet dander. However, all that trapped dirt inside the filter can prevent the system from doing its job efficiently.
For that reason, experts highly recommend that you change your filter after a couple of months. You change it in order to improve your system’s performance – and your air quality. To make sure, check with your manufacturer to determine the correct frequency of changing filters.
2. Make a Service Appointment
Have a professional clean and service your system. You’ll want your equipment running at its peak before heading into summer.
In addition, you’ll intensively use your unit during the summer. And if it malfunctions during one of the hottest days, it could be inconvenient for the entire family. Not only that, but it could be harder to schedule an appointment. By scheduling a spring HVAC appointment, you’ll beat the summer rush.
Taking this step allows you to spot problems early on and mitigate them, as well as prolong the lifespan of your system.
Join Neal’s Comfort Club to protect your HVAC system’s warranty and ensure that your unit is running smoothly all throughout the year.
3. Remove Leaves from Outdoor Unit
Check your outdoor unit to see if any leaves or branches are encroaching on your unit’s space and remove them. Cut back any plants or shrubs growing nearby. Then, using a low-pressure hose, clean off the dirt that has accumulated outside the unit. Or, simply call Neal’s Heating & Air. We’ll clean your system thoroughly for you, inside and out.
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If you need help with your unit, please call Neal’s Heating & Air at (706) 764-7185 to schedule an appointment. By having your system maintained in springtime, you can rest easy – knowing you can depend on it to perform when you need it most in summer.
5 Tips to Fight the Flu with Your Heating System
Some of the best ways to fight the flu are not so obvious. Not many people know that they can use their heating system to stave off the illness that has affected so many people over the past year. But did you know you can actually fight the flu with your heating system? Here are some of the things you can do to protect your loved ones during this flu season.
5 Ways to Fight the Flu With Your Heating System
1. Replace Your Filter
Indoor allergens like pet dander, dust mites, and pollen get trapped in your heating system’s filter. But if you haven’t changed your filter for months, it won’t be able to stop these allergens from coming through.
Prevent them from entering your system by regularly changing your filters. By minimizing the presence of allergens in the home, your indoor air quality will also improve.
2. Use a Humidifier
Since it is cold and dry during the winter season, you need to increase the moisture level inside the home. Professionals recommend that you keep the home within the 35-50% humidity level to reduce the incidence of flu and cold viruses in the home.
Since the flu virus does not thrive in warm and moist environments, you need to invest in a good humidifier. A humidifier will also help you breathe easier and will help treat flu symptoms like sore throat and runny nose.
3. Invest in an Air Purifier
This device provides clean, fresh air throughout the home, which is highly effective in fighting back seasonal illnesses such as influenza.
4. Clean the Air Ducts
The air ducts circulate the air from your heating system to the rooms in your home. Over time, they can attract a lot of dust, dirt, and debris. You can ask your local HVAC company to clean the air ducts to reduce these irritants.
5. Check Your System
A heating system that has been largely neglected can become a breeding ground for mold and allergens. The quality of the air you breathe in is also important when combating airborne illnesses.
You need to hire the services of a good HVAC company to check both your system and your home’s indoor air quality. Regular inspections of your heating system is important, and more so during the flu season.
Neal’s Heating & Air can help ensure that your home and your loved ones are protected from the flu virus. To know more about our services, please give us a call at (706) 764-7185.
Where Should You Set Your Thermostat During Winter?
Whenever temperatures start dropping, most homeowners concern themselves with how to keep their loved ones warm and toasty during winter. In order to lessen your energy consumption and save on utility bills, the US Department of Energy highly recommends that you set your thermostat during winter at a temperature of 68°F.
You can even set it even lower if nobody’s home during daytime, or if you’re asleep at night. Once you get used to the colder weather, you can also lower the temperature by one degree each week.
Set Your Thermostat During Winter the Modern Way
Manually changing the settings of your thermostat can be more work than it’s worth. If you no longer want to go through the trouble, you might want to invest in a programmable thermostat. To get the most out of your energy-efficient HVAC equipment, you need to pair it with a programmable thermostat.
Most programmable thermostats can easily learn the habits of your household and will automatically adjust the temperature of your home. They can also override these automatic settings should the need arise.
Placement of the thermostat is also important. To achieve optimal performance, avoid placing it on the path of direct sunlight or air drafts. Make sure to place it in an area far away from any heating or cooling registers, appliances, doors, windows, skylights, and fireplaces.
Most importantly, don’t forget to schedule a service maintenance before the start of the heating season. You need to ensure your unit can withstand the demands of the household during winter.
Start Saving on Energy Today
Employing the strategies mentioned above will help you keep comfortable during the long cold months ahead. If you want professional help in setting up your thermostat, you can consult with an HVAC professional from Neal’s Heating & Air. Please give us a call at (706) 764-7185 for a detailed energy assessment of your home.
Don’t Ignore Your Heating System During Winter
Now that winter is here, your heating system is working extra hard to keep your home warm and cozy. A properly working furnace or heating pump is an absolute must once the temperatures start dropping. For that reason, don’t ignore your heating system during winter!
You need to have a reliable system to get you through the harshest weather in North Georgia. Achieve the level of comfort that you and your loved ones deserve by making sure your equipment is up to speed with these tips:
1. Schedule a Maintenance Appointment
To make your heating system work more efficiently, you need to have it serviced by a professional heating company like Neal’s Heating & Air.
Make sure to have it looked at least once a year, preferably before the start of the cooling season. Aside from cleaning up the system, we can detect leaks and other signs of damage early on and fix them right away.
2. Keep your System Clean
You can also do some form of maintenance on your own. Wipe the equipment down and make sure it is free from dirt and debris. You also need to replace filters and clean vents. Make sure that nothing is obstructing the air vents, and that they are opened all the way.
If you are using a traditional HVAC unit, you can winterize your condenser with a waterproof cover. But if you’re using a heat pump, you don’t need to do this because you’ll be using it throughout the year. It is also important to remove leaves and branches from the outside unit. After a heavy storm, remove any snow buildup that may have accumulated.
3. Test your Thermostat
Make sure that the temperature you set your thermostat to is the correct one for the home. If not, consider investing in a smart thermostat that picks up your habits and automates your temperature in an energy-efficient way. It will increase the heat when you’re at home and awake, and dial it down when you’re away or asleep.
4. Insulate the Home
Check the insulation of your home to see if warm air is able to escape. Weatherstrip the doors and windows to ensure insulation is still effective. Doing so will reduce the amount of energy required to heat the home and will lower your utility bill.
No one wants to be left out in the cold. During this time of the year, a malfunction on your heating system can cause serious discomfort and health problems for the entire family. Contact Neal’s Heating & Air so we can check your system immediately!
Top Ways to Improve Indoor Air Circulation
Most homes have been designed to become energy-efficient and well-insulated. While these are all well and good, this efficient environment does not really do much in terms of your home’s indoor air quality. The good news is that there are things you can do to achieve a safer and more pleasant breathing space indoors. In addition, it’s easy to follow the best ways to improve indoor air circulation.
Top 6 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Circulation
1. Install Fans
You can install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to keep the moisture out and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. You can also install ceiling fans in the living area and bedrooms to help the air move around the house and to lessen the load on your air conditioner. Use ceiling fans when the weather is moderate and humidity is low, then use the air conditioner for warmer weather.
2. Install an Attic Vent
Don’t forget the attic when you’re working on the ventilation for the entire home. You can have a ridge vent or gable vent installed in the attic to prevent stagnant air and excess heat from being trapped.
3. Replace Filters
Make it a habit to regularly change or clean your air conditioner’s filters every three months. The filters serve as your system’s first line of defense, which is why they attract a lot of dust and dirt. Clogged filters prevent your air conditioner or furnace from performing their best and can cause an increase in your utility bills.
4. Use Humidifiers & Dehumidifiers
A humidifier increases the moisture levels and is used during the winter months when the air is dry indoors, while a dehumidifier decreases the humidity level and is used during summer when the air is warm and humid.
5. Go Natural
Open your doors and windows and let the fresh air flow throughout the home. You can also add plants not just for decoration, but to also help improve the air quality. There are plenty of plants that thrive indoors and require little maintenance such as snake plants, philodendrons, and bamboo palms.
6. Seek Professional Help
Improving your home’s indoor air circulation is important to create a healthier breathing environment for you and your loved ones. If you need professional help when it comes your home’s indoor air quality, please contact Neal’s Heating & Air for assistance. Call us at (706) 764-7185 or fill out our contact form, and we promise to get back to you within the next 8 business hours.
5 Easy Steps to Get Your Heat Pump Ready for Fall
The days are getting shorter and temperatures are starting to drop. Now that fall is in full swing, winter is just around the corner. And we know what that means! It’s time to prepare your home for the cold weather. In addition, make sure your heat pump can handle the additional workload. Just follow these steps to get your heat pump ready for fall.
5 Steps to Get Your Heat Pump Ready for Fall
1. Replace Your Air Filters
A dirty filter will block the airflow. In doing so, it’ll increase the load on your system. It will also increase your energy consumption as well.
For that reason, the easiest – and most important – way to maintain your heat pump is by regularly changing its air filters once a month. If you are suffering from allergies or asthma or have a pet at home, then you may need to change it more frequently.
2. Check Outdoor Unit’s Environment
Pay a visit to your outdoor unit from time to time. You’ll need to remove any branches, leaves, or debris that may have accumulated on the top and area around it. In addition, remove ice or snow from the top.
3. Inspect Your Doors and Windows
Seal gaps between doors and windows and their frames to lessen the air that escapes. As you seal those gaps, you’ll help to minimize the amount of energy it takes to warm your home. Caulking and weather stripping will make sure your home is airtight.
4. Adjust Your Thermostat
If you haven’t already done so, make the switch to a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat can learn your heating and cooling requirements. It will also automatically adjust the system.
If you are using a conventional thermostat, you can keep it at the lowest possible comfortable temperature to save on your energy bill.
5. Schedule a Tune-up
Your heat pump technically works all year round. However, during the winter season when the colder weather hits, your system works harder than ever.
For that reason, sign up for a maintenance contract with Neal’s Heating & Air. It’s best to get started before the frigid temperatures start. Joining our Comfort Club will help ensure that your heat pump will perform at its best once winter comes.
A technician will come over to assess the performance of your heat pump. If there is a need for repair, they will also take care of it on the spot.
Get Ready for Winter Season
Of course, we all know one of the first steps to get your heat pump ready for fall. Make sure to have it checked by a professional.
As one of the leading HVAC service companies in North Georgia, Neal’s Heating & Air can ensure your equipment is up to the task of warming your home. Please give us a call at (706) 764-7185 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?
Many advancements have been made in the field of heating and cooling technology. As features become more advanced and HVAC systems become more complex, their lifespans are constantly evolving, too. So, how long do HVAC systems last in our modern era? When might you need to replace yours? (Hint: if it looks anything like the image above, replacement will be sooner than later!)
If properly maintained, many modern air conditioners and heat pumps generally last between 15 to 20 years. Furnaces generally last within 20 to 30 years, depending on a number of things. Boilers typically last longer than furnaces.
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last? As Long as Circumstances Allow!
There are many factors that can affect the longevity of your system. Consider that the climate conditions when you first purchased your system have significantly changed due to global warming and climate change.
In addition, incorrect sizing, improper installation procedures, and lack of maintenance are also factors that can severely affect the performance of your HVAC unit. These tend to accelerate its wear and tear.
Maintaining Your Heating and Cooling Equipment
To prevent wear and tear from happening, you can do some of the basic maintenance work by yourself. There are simple tasks such as changing the filters or landscaping the outdoors to protect the outdoor unit.
But having a thorough maintenance check is something that’s best left to the professionals. This is best done twice every year on a year-round system like a heat pump package unit, or once per system if you’re using two systems such an air conditioner and a furnace.
The best time to do this is before the start of the heating season (spring) and cooling season (fall). That will allow you to have any problems fixed before the weather changes for the worse.
But really, how long do HVAC systems last? Only as long as they’re well maintained. For this reason, join Neal’s Comfort Club to get quality maintenance services that will make your HVAC equipment last. Our team will inspect your system for signs of damage and fix it right away.
HVAC System Replacement
An aging HVAC system won’t be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. As a result, you’ll see increased energy bills.
If you have been using your air conditioner or heat pump for more than 15 years, or your furnace has been purchased more than 25 years ago, now is the best time to consult with a heating and cooling company to help you with the upgrade.
Neal’s Heating & Air can get the job done. We provide professional installation and replacement services at an affordable price. If you’re not sure it’s time to replace your current heating and cooling system, feel free to give us a call at (706) 764-7185. Or, just fill out our contact form for a quick consultation with an HVAC expert.
Too Hot? Late Summer Air Conditioning Issues
Let’s face it – many of us enjoy summer and wouldn’t want anything to ruin this special season. However, summers tend to get a bit warmer than we remember. It’s funny how every year, we’re amazed by how hot 90° feels. As a result, we tend to power up our air conditioners to keep ourselves comfy. For that reason, now’s the time when late summer air conditioning issues develop.
These sophisticated systems tend to overheat or develop issues such as motor wear, lack of air flow, faulty capacitors, and many more. Although it might be hard for you to spot a problem with your conditioner, an experienced technician will be able to.
4 Common Late Summer Air Conditioning Issues
Keep reading to discover what to watch out for as the temperature spikes and air conditioners get more worn out.
1. Faulty Capacitors
In air conditioners, capacitors are used to start the mortars in the blowers, fan, and compressors. The main cause of faulty capacitors is overwork. If you leave your air conditioner on all the time, there’s a high chance that your capacitors will fail.
What’s more, you also need to remember that faulty or overheated capacitors can cause major issues within your unit. That can also lead to the breakdown of the whole unit. So, how do you know they’re faulty? If you hear a clicking or humming noise coming from your air conditioning unit, consider checking on your capacitors.
2. Insufficient Airflow
If you realize that the temperatures are about 80 degree and your air conditioning is at 70, but you can’t feel the difference, there is a high chance that your unit might be clogged. The best way to conduct repairs is to clean out debris or replace filters. It is one of the best options to comfortably unclog your air conditioner without calling a technician.
3. Motor Wear
Of course, air conditioners use motors to spin their fans. And the fans are essential. They pull air into the machine to be cooled, and send it throughout your house. If you notice that your fan has stopped spinning or there is a squeaking noise coming from the motor, motor wear may be the culprit. Like the majority of air conditioning problems, your best solution is to call an expert to have it fixed. Also, make sure to stop running your motor until it is fixed. If you don’t, you might worsen the problem.
4. Low Refrigerant
This is one of the most common late summer air conditioning issues. If your system doesn’t have enough refrigerant, it won’t cool properly. Maintaining a vacuum is essential when replacing the refrigerant, so have a professional do it.
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Your air conditioner is prone to certain late summer air conditioning issues, especially if you have been using it the whole summer. However, if you are able to identify the problem early on, you can have the right tech perform repairs. Then, continue enjoying your summer. For help making the end of summer cool and comfortable, call Neal’s Heating & Air at (706) 764-7185.
How to Lower Indoor Humidity for Cool Comfort
Humidity in your home can make you very uncomfortable—especially hot summer weather. What’s more, persistent damp can cause health hazards in some cases. A high level of moisture in the air can promote mold growth. To stay comfortable and healthy, you need to know how to lower indoor humidity for cool comfort during summer. How do you reach that ideal indoor humidity range of 30–50 percent?
How to Lower Indoor Humidity During Summer: 5 Simple Methods
1. Ventilate Everywhere
Proper ventilation can help lower humidity. Turn off the air conditioner and open your windows during the cool hours of the day. This will let fresh air circulate through the house. A nice breeze can help bring down latent humidity.
Also, long, hot showers are luxurious—but they produce a huge amount of humidity. Always use the ventilation fan in the bathroom. In addition, open the bathroom window (if practical) to lower the temperature.
In the kitchen, you can also use a fan over the stove. It can help bring down the amount of heat produced during cooking.
Finally, keep your ceiling fans running. Any way you can increase air circulation in the house is one of the best ways how to lower indoor humidity.
2. Use a Dehumidifier
Running a dehumidifier is an excellent way to lower humidity. And, because it’s easier to cool less humid air, this excellent indoor climate control machine can also reduce your AC costs in the long run. A system-wide dehumidifier fits in your air furnace handler. There, it removes moisture as the air passes through. By the time you feel the air, it’s cold and dry—an excellent feeling for summer comfort. And that’s not the only benefit. By using a dehumidifier, you may even reduce the amount of time your AC unit needs to run. And that will save wear and tear, causing you to need fewer air conditioner repairs.
3. Keep All Surfaces Dry
One of the simplest ways to reduce humidity (that few people think of) is to keep all surfaces dry. Wipe down your sink and counter area after washing your dishes. Use a squeegee to take water off your shower walls when you’re done. Also, dry out your sink after you finish brushing your teeth. If the water is left to evaporate, it goes straight into your home’s air. And, as we discussed, moist air can lead to mold formation.
4. Turn the Air Conditioner On
Remember #1 and how we recommended that you open the windows? Well, anyone who knows how to lower indoor humidity knows this: once the air warms up, turn on the AC right away. You should also run it overnight. By doing so, you’ll let the system start removing humidity. As warm air exits and is replaced by cooler air, your home’s humidity will naturally drop. Make sure you change the filter regularly for the best air flow!
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Now you know how to lower indoor humidity for comfort this summer. It’s time to put those tips into action! At Neal’s Heating & Air, we want you stay cool—and we’re ready to help. If you notice a drop off in performance, don’t hesitate. Simply give us a call at (706) 764-7185 and we’ll help restore you to cool comfort.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?
Have you ever found yourself wondering, “why is my air conditioner blowing warm air?” After all, a fully functional air conditioner is a must-have for every home in and around Chattanooga. Generally, air conditioners play a significant role in circulating and filtering the air we breathe in. Just a few other benefits of good air conditioning systems include preventing heat-related illness, filtering allergens out of the air, and preventing electronic devices from overheating.
On the other hand, having a faulty AC unit can be quite frustrating. Especially with summer just around the corner. Temperatures are usually unbearable during this season and you need comfortable, cool air more than ever. An air conditioner that blows warm air can give you sleepless nights unless you take immediate action.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?
Well, your air conditioner can start blowing warm air due to various reasons. Let’s look at a few of them.
1. Clogged Filter
When your air conditioner has a good filter, contaminants such as dust and pet hair are filtered out of the air. When the filter becomes clogged by foreign substances, it prevents air from flowing through the system effectively. Your air conditioner may start blowing warm air if not enough air is passing over the condenser coils.
2. Thermostat Problems
The first thing that you should consider doing when your AC system starts blowing warm air is to check the thermostat. From time to time, thermostat components may break. Or, you may have changed the temperature accidentally. Is the thermostat set at the correct temperature and the air is still warm? Just call a professional to diagnose and repair the problem for you.
3. Disconnected or Damaged Wiring
If the wiring isn’t connected properly, your air conditioner will have a hard time functioning as it should. Whether the wires are damaged or simply disconnected, they need repair. Check for exposed or damaged wires. If you spot any, call a professional.
4. Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the substance that turns warm air into comfortable cool air. If it’s low, whether from a leak or otherwise, you’ll experience warm air coming from your vents. Your AC repairman will let you know if this is the problem.
Other Common Causes of AC Blowing Warm Air Include:
- Tripped condenser breakers
- Blocked return vent opening
- Blocked/dirty condenser coils
- Power loss to the system’s outdoor unit
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Is your air conditioner blowing warm air? Call Neal’s Heating and Air for professional diagnosis and repair.