4 Eye-Opening Reasons Homeowners Should Invest in an AC Maintenance Plan
Unexpected HVAC costs can really hurt the homeowner who's on a budget. Air Conditioning repairs alone can range between $150-$450 depending on the issue.
That's why having an AC maintenance plan is worth the cost. You can have a warrantied professional in your home twice a year to examine all of your equipment and make any needed small repairs before they turn into costly issues.
Read on for our top 4 eye-opening reasons to invest in a maintenance package for your air conditioning system.
1. Fewer Expensive Repairs
Most major repairs that are required on HVAC systems are caused by a smaller problem that went unnoticed. In fact, most repairs are a result of inadequate maintenance.
If left for too long, a simple replacement or a part or cleaning of a coil can turn into a total system replacement or another expensive repair.
When a professional and warranty backed specialist comes regularly to inspect the various components of your HVAC system, they are more likely to find the small repairs before they turn into costly problems.
2. Peace of Mind
HVAC breakdowns happen when the equipment is working the hardest. This means that most system failures happen when you need them working the most, in the dead of winter during a freeze, or in the blazing sun of a summer heatwave.
By having regular maintenance done on your air conditioner and furnace, you'll be preventing small problems from turning into major equipment malfunctions.
You can rest easy, knowing that when you need your comfort systems most, they'll be working in perfect condition.
3. Having an AC Maintenance Plan is More Energy Efficient
A well-tuned air conditioner will work more efficiently than one that is overcompensating for damaged parts of the system.
By having regular maintenance through one of our custom maintenance packages your system will be able to work effectively while using less energy.
One of our trained experts will check the coils, condensate drain, clean the blower motor, lubricate the moving parts, and many more essential maintenances each time they visit.
Having your system in tip-top shape can save you a lot of money on your monthly utility bills.
4. Save Money on Needed Repairs
We offer special discounts on parts and labor to our clients with maintenance plans. That means they'll save 20% on all parts and labor costs. And when it's time for a new system, we even offer 10% off of new air conditioners and furnaces.
The air conditioners and furnaces with regular maintenance done have a longer performance life than those without. So you'll be able to avoid replacing your systems for longer.
It's our way of saying "thank you" and your way of saving big.
It's Time to Get Your Plan in Place
Having an AC maintenance plan is the key to having peace of mind and avoiding unexpected and expensive repairs.
Don't wait till your next AC malfunction, get a professional into your home today!
For more info on how to maximize the life and performance of your HVAC systems check out our blog today!
5 Things Homeowners Should Know About AC Preventive Maintenance
It’s easy to forget about your AC unit… until it breaks down during the hottest time of the year. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to prevent getting stuck in the heat without always having to think about it?
That’s when an AC preventive maintenance plan is the answer. It not only checks one more thing off your to-do list, but it also keeps you comfortable while saving money.
To learn how it can help you, let’s look at 5 things homeowners should know about AC preventive maintenance.
1. What Is AC Preventive Maintenance?
Regular AC maintenance is important for the HVAC system. Just like a small oil change can prevent a major breakdown for a car, servicing your AC keeps the unit running smoothly.
Preventive maintenance will take care of things like cleaning dirty parts and filters, inspecting for problems, and testing performance to keep it in top form. It also tightens and adjusts parts that will save you from experiencing big issues down the road.
2. What Are the Benefits?
Keeping your AC unit in good working order helps avoid breakdowns and repairs. This is especially beneficial during the hottest parts of the year.
It also relieves the stress hard-working units can endure over the summer months. This reduces wear and tear, prolonging the life of your system.
Plus, it keeps your home comfortable and safe. Technicians not only inspect your AC unit but ensure cool air is evenly distributed throughout the house. As a result, air quality is clean and your family safe from harmful refrigerant leaks.
3. How Does It Save Money?
An AC unit that is clean and running efficiently will lower the cost of your energy bills. Without having to work harder to cool your house, the unit will not use as much energy to run.
You’ll also save money from costly repair bills when the chance of breakdowns gets reduced. Yet, if a problem does come up, having a maintenance plan will save you money on parts and repairs.
Plus, you’ll get the most of your AC investment when the lifespan of the unit gets prolonged. You won’t find yourself replacing the system before necessary.
4. Why Hire a Professional?
While some DIYers can do parts of AC preventive maintenance, other parts are important to leave to a professional. That’s because proper training and equipment are essential for your safety.
Technicians have training on how to inspect your AC unit in depth. Calibrating and testing parts require special equipment and know-how to get the job done right.
Dealing with electrical issues and refrigerant leaks is also dangerous. Only a professional will know how to handle these problems safely.
5. How Often to Use AC Preventive Maintenance?
AC preventive maintenance only requires a tune-up appointment twice a year. These are usually pre-scheduled, which relieves homeowners from having to always remember to get it done.
Also, being on a maintenance plan entitles you to 24/7 priority calls 365 days a year. No matter when an issue occurs, you’ll always have the peace of mind knowing fast help is available.
Buy Peace of Mind With AC Preventive Maintenance
Keep your family cool and comfortable. By knowing how an AC preventive maintenance plan can help you, you’ll beat the heat while saving money.
Ready to schedule your AC preventive maintenance? Contact us today to learn about discounts and details on a plan that will work best for you!
Faulty Furnace: 5 Warning Signs Your Furnace Lifespan is Coming to an End
How do you know when a furnace lifespan is reaching an end?
We all know this happens at some point, but it can be hard to accept. The average cost to replace a furnace, including installation, is $3,100. It could range from $2,150 to $5,900.
The average furnace life expectancy is 20-25 years.
In this article, we'll help you prepare for the eventuality of needing to replace your old furnace by identifying and explaining the signs that it might be failing. Read on to learn more.
Warning Signs Your Furnace Lifespan is Ending
These warning signs are pretty consistent across multiple sources. When you notice one of more of them, consider yourself alerted.
1. Your Heating Bills Have Increased
This is a sign that the furnace is working much harder than it would need to if it were in good working order.
The cause could be leaky windows or air ducts. It could be worn out insulation. It also could be that the thermostat is set too high.
However, it might be that the furnace lifespan is reaching its end.
2. The House Is Chilly and the Furnace Is Only Blowing Cold Air
This could be caused by several things.
First, if you have an older furnace, check the pilot light to be sure it hasn't gone out. If it has, relighting it should take care of things.
If the furnace is shutting on and off, it could mean it's overheating. It also could be a blower fan malfunction, causing the furnace to heat the house sporadically or some parts to heat but not others. It could also be leaky air ducts.
Or it could be something else altogether. Whatever it is probably needs professional attention.
3. Your Furnace Is More than 15 Years Old
You can find out the age of your furnace by checking the serial number on its label. This could be tricky, though, since most serial numbers don't list the manufacture date in obvious ways.
The best way to "decode" the date is to search the manufacturer's website for a guide. If all else fails, contact the manufacturer directly.
4. There's Increased Dust Coming From the Heating Ducts
This could be caused by dirt and dust build-up in air ducts. Or it could be a filter that needs to be changed.
Another possible cause, though is that your furnace is just too old. As furnaces age, they have a harder time filtering the air they heat.
5. The Pilot Light or Burner Flame Is Yellow, Not Blue (for a gas furnace)
Be aware that most modern furnaces use electronic ignitions, not pilot lights, so you should check the burner taking the necessary precautions or have it checked by a professional.
A yellow or flickering flame could be a sign of a dirty burner, signaling that the furnace might be producing carbon monoxide gas. Not only could this mean the furnace needs repair or replacement, carbon monoxide gas is also poisonous.
If you see a yellow or flickering flame, call an HVAC technician or your utility company right away!
Get That Heat Back On!
Depending on where your furnace is in the overall life of a furnace, you could be experiencing different types of problems--and for different reasons. With a newer furnace, for example, a problem could be due to a defective part.
But the more years your furnace has been serving you well, the more likely it is that it's just reached the end of what would be considered a typical furnace lifespan.
Whatever might be wrong, if it's more than a simple fix, such as replacing the filter, call your HVAC technician for help and advice. And, sorry to say, be prepared for the possibility that it's time to replace your furnace.
Is an AC Maintenance Plan a Good Investment? These 4 Reasons Say 'Yes'
When you're so busy, you might only think to call an HVAC repair company when your AC stops working.
But from coils that need cleaning to a thermostat that needs calibration, your AC needs routine maintenance just like your car does.
To reduce any hassle, you can purchase an AC maintenance plan.
This plan involves having a few visits to tune up your AC each year. It also gives you access to special perks that lessen the strain of any future repair needs.
Read on for four reasons why an HVAC maintenance plan is a great investment.
1. Save Money
With HVAC service contracts, you can pay a flat fee to have regular maintenance performed on your air conditioning equipment.
You won't have to pay for each tune-up or coil cleaning visit.
At the same time, you can get discounts on future products and services.
For example, we offer a 20 percent discount on replacement parts and repair labor for plan members. You'll get 10 percent off any new AC units you buy from us, and we won't charge you for service calls either.
2. Prevent Future AC Breakdowns
It's never convenient when AC problems happen and leave you sweating in the summer heat.
The regular tune-ups an AC maintenance plan offers can help prevent common problems early.
For example, we will make sure your AC has no leaks and that the wiring doesn't have damage. By making small fixes, we can save you future headaches and keep your home cool.
Also, keep in mind that regular maintenance often is a requirement for your AC warranty.
So, if your AC unit breaks down with proof of maintenance, you're more likely to get a replacement or repair under your warranty claim.
3. Get Priority Service When You Need It
Have you ever needed your AC fixed fast just to find out you'd have to wait several days until an appointment?
Even worse, the next visit might be when nobody is even at home.
You won't have to worry about this if you get an HVAC service contract from us. We'll be there within 24 hours and have convenient appointment hours so that your family isn't left in the heat.
4. Keep Your AC Operating Efficiently
Did you know that having regular HVAC maintenance done can also help your AC unit save energy?
This happens thanks to the coil cleaning process included as part of our AC maintenance plan.
When your coils have dirt on them, your AC's motor and other parts feel the strain. Eventually, this can make your unit not last as long as it should.
Having the coils cleaned as part of regular AC maintenance will lessen the strain on the AC's components and will also have a nice impact on your electric bill.
Invest in an AC Maintenance Plan Today
Getting an AC maintenance plan will help you save time and money in the long run.
It will also keep your AC in good shape so that it serves your family longer.
So, rather than just booking a single tune-up, consider signing up for our AC maintenance plan. You can rest assured we'll send trained technicians to perform a thorough inspection and check-up on your unit as soon as possible.
Schedule an appointment with us today to get started!
7 Essential Steps to Effective Air Conditioner Maintenance (2019)
Your air conditioner is one of the most valuable assets in your home. Of course, you are going to protect and preserve such a valuable asset.
Unfortunately, many people ignore their air conditioner’s maintenance requirements. Then, they are shocked when the repair and replacement bills start rolling in.
The average cost to replace an air conditioner is roughly $5,000. However, more complex replacement jobs in more substantial homes can cost upwards to $12,500.
Read on for a comprehensive guide to air conditioner maintenance. Explore seven preventative maintenance tips to make sure your air conditioner is running smoothly.
1. Replace the Air Filter
Very few maintenance tasks are more manageable than replacing an air filter. However, many homeowners neglect this step.
Instead, they continue to run the air conditioner with a clogged air filter. This makes the AC unit run harder than it needs to and shortens its shelf life.
AC air filters need to be replaced every month. They are cheap and easy to install.
2. Clean the Air Compressor
Your AC unit’s compressor is located on the exterior of the home. Many people ignore this critical subsystem and allow it to operate unchecked in the elements.
You should periodically clean the air compressor. This consists of removing the fan cage and removing any foreign debris like leaves and pines.
Also, make sure to remove dirt on the compressor’s fins. This is accomplished with a brush attachment on a shop vacuum or a commercial cleaning spray. Once all the soil is loose, use a gentle stream from the garden hose to clean it thoroughly.
3. Compressor Maintenance
Several items can reduce your air compressor’s efficiency. For starters, inspect the compressor unit for bent fins as they reduce airflow. You can use a fin-straightening tool to fix it.
Also, periodically check on the compressor’s level. If the compressor is out-of-level, it can fail earlier than anticipated. For some, this maintenance task is too advanced and requires assistance from a professional.
4. Clean Air Conditioner Coils
Now, we are back to maintaining the primary AC unit. The purpose of the AC coils is to absorb heat.
When coils are covered in dirt and grime, they cannot effectively complete this objective. By absorbing less heat, the air conditioner has to work harder.
This results in higher than anticipated energy bills and shorter shelf life for the AC unit. Accessing coils is another task that may require professional assistance.
5. Make Sure the Condensate Drain Is Clear
This maintenance task requires periodic inspection to make sure the drain is not clogged. The condensate drain helps route condensation from the AC unit to the home’s exterior.
A clogged drain means the condensation is trapped within the system. If you are unable to unclog the drain yourself, it is time to call an HVAC professional.
A Recap of Air Conditioner Maintenance
Air conditioner maintenance is often overlooked, but it is important to your wallet and comfort. Taking steps like replacing an AC filter or cleaning coils go a long way to extending the unit’s service life.
If you need help performing air conditioner maintenance, please contact us to schedule an appointment today.
Why Is It So Important to Have a Preventative AC Maintenance Plan?
One item on your preventative AC maintenance plan can reduce energy consumption by between 5 and 15 percent. According to the U.S. Energy Department, replacing or cleaning your air conditioner's air filters can make this much difference.
Why is it so important to have a preventative AC maintenance plan? Read on to find out how an AC maintenance plan could save you money and trouble in the long run.
An AC Maintenance Plan Saves Money
Having to fix a breakdown in your air conditioner is not just inconvenient. It can be expensive too.
The better maintained your air conditioner is, the more efficient it will be. This means your energy costs will be lower than if you didn't have a preventative maintenance plan.
Buying and installing an air conditioner is a big expense. Far better to extend the life of your existing AC unit. Regular checks of your air conditioner, cleaning, and replacement of filters will put that replacement expense off.
Maintain Warranty Cover
The warranty on an air conditioning unit can give you peace of mind. If the unit fails, a valid warranty will cover the cost of repair. But are you sure that your warranty will be valid?
Many air conditioning warranties require you to have regular preventative maintenance. Failing to do this will mean that if the air conditioning unit breaks down you will not be covered by the warranty and may have a large bill to repair the unit. Check your warranty conditions.
Maximize Performance
Your air conditioning unit helps provide you with a pleasant living environment. When temperatures are high outside, you want to enjoy pleasantly cool temperatures indoors.
If you operate your air conditioning unit seasonally, you will only be aware of a performance problem when you most need it to work. The temperatures will be soaring and you'll be trying to call an air conditioning engineer in to fix it. This will be at the same time as every other homeowner with a poorly maintained air conditioner is doing the same thing.
Regular preventative maintenance is the best way to maintain reliable performance. The maintenance can be done by our AC technicians at a time when you don't most need it.
Better Air Quality
One of the benefits of having air conditioning is the impact it has on air quality. An air conditioning unit filters and purifies the air passing through it. This process removes many allergens such as smoke, pollen, dust mites, and mold.
We probably wouldn't want to breathe these substances anyway but, in some cases, it's more serious than personal preference. Removing allergens can significantly help with illnesses such as asthma. A bad case of asthma can lead to hospitalization and may be life-threatening.
Having air ducts cleaned and air conditioning filters changed helps remove the build-up of harmful allergens and maintains air quality.
Peace of Mind
An AC maintenance plan gives you peace of mind. Save money and stay cool. Get a preventative maintenance plan in place now.
Contact us today about an annual service agreement.
When to Get a Central AC Repair Free Estimate in Jasper TX
Most years in Jasper, Texas, it stays above 80 degrees Fahrenheit from May to September. If you're going through that without an air conditioner, it can be miserable.
However, AC units can be expensive to repair which is why so many people procrastinate when it comes to having them checked.
It's also why we came up with this list of when you should get an AC repair free estimate. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Poor Airflow
Reduced airflow can mean one of two things when it comes to your AC unit. It could be that something is blocked which is preventing air from properly flowing through the unit or it could be that your unit's motor isn't working efficiently.
Either way, this is a sure sign that something needs to be done as soon as possible.
2. Warm Air
Another sign that it's time to get a repair estimate is when you feel warm air coming from your vents. Be sure to check that your thermostat is set to cool and that the temperature is set to a lower temperature than your home.
Once you've confirmed that the air is warmer than it should be, it's time to call in a professional.
3. Constant Cycling
It's normal for an air conditioner to cycle on and off as it keeps your home cool. However, it shouldn't be doing that constantly. If it is, there may be something wrong and you should call for service quickly.
4. Water Leakage
Another normal part of an AC unit is the creation of condensation thanks to the cooling elements. However, a properly-working unit removes that water to the outside of your home.
An indoor leak is a sign of a potential problem. This is also something you'll want to have fixed as soon as possible because the water coming into your home can lead to other problems like mold.
5. Strange Sounds
While there are many normal noises you'll hear from your air conditioner, there are other sounds that are abnormal and could indicate a serious problem. Normal noises are typically soft and shouldn't be too noticeable.
Here are a few sounds that may be cause for concern:
- Loud sounds
- Rattling noises
- Grinding sounds
- Buzzing
If you do hear any of these, you should get an estimate to figure out what might be causing them. In some cases, it may simply be a loose screw but it could also be something more serious.
6. Foul Odors
Your HVAC system shouldn't have any type of bad smell coming from the vents. If it does, there could be something inside that needs to be cleaned out.
Only an estimate from a professional can let you know exactly where the problem is so you can resolve it quickly.
Where to Get an AC Repair Free Estimate
Now you have six signs that your air conditioner may be in need of some professional attention.
Fortunately, it's easy to get an AC repair free estimate in Jasper, Texas. This will let you know exactly what's wrong with your unit and help you decide if it's worth repairing or if it's time for a replacement.
Contact us today if you're in or near Jasper and want a free estimate to determine what's wrong with your AC unit.
Need Central Air Conditioner Maintenance? Here are 7 Warning Signs
Are you feeling that intense summer heat yet? If you find yourself too hot, then it may be time to check up on your AC unit.
How can you tell when it's time to conduct some central air conditioner maintenance? Keep reading to learn about the top seven warning signs.
1. Increasing Energy Bills
One of the first warning signs you need AC maintenance is increasing bills. At first, the increases may seem incremental or small. Don't mistake this sign as something normal.
Learning how to clean an air conditioner can help reduce your bill. It'll also extend the life of your AC unit, too!
If you see a giant spike, then it's time to call in an expert.
2. Reduced Air Flow
Does your home still feel cool, but you've noticed less airflow? This could be one culprit behind your higher bills. Here are a few things that can cause lower airflow:
- Blocked vents
- Dirty air filters
- Malfunctioning blower
- Low refrigerant
First, try to learn how to clean an air conditioner unit. This will reduce the likelihood that debris or dirt is causing your problem.
3. Thermostat Problems
Is your home still hot despite your thermostat's low setting? Understand that putting your thermostat lower will only make your compressor work harder.
If the temperature in your home doesn't match the thermostat, then it could be a sign of other problems.
4. Strange Humming Sounds
Do you often hear strange bumps and noises throughout the day? Are they coming from your AC unit?
Another sign that you need air conditioning repair services is humming noises. Humming is a sign that something in your unit is off. Banging and vibration could mean a part is loose.
If you look up 'how to clean central air unit' online, then you may find the loose part. If not, then you need to contact a maintenance specialist.
5. The Age of Your Unit
Do you know how old your unit is? Even with top-notch maintenance, the average AC unit's lifespan is 15 years.
That means if you're getting close to this mark, you can expect an increased need for maintenance.
6. Get Central Air Conditioner Maintenance When You Notice Moisture
Don't think a little extra moisture near your outside unit is an issue? Think again.
Each year, Americans shell out about $29 billion on air conditioners. Don't let yours get ruined by failing to correct an issue like excess moisture.
7. Your Unit Stops Blowing Cold Air
Has your unit completely stopped blowing out cold air? This fact is a clear sign of a malfunctioning unit. It's important to reach out to a repair service rather than continuing to run your system.
Keep Your AC Unit Running Smooth
Central air conditioner maintenance needs to get done as soon as possible. Neglecting a problem can cause further irreparable damage. If you're in need of a brand new system, then consider checking out our variety of products.
Have you ever experienced problems with your central AC unit? Did you notice a warning sign that we missed on this list? Share your knowledge with us by leaving a comment in the box below.