Author Archives: Elite HVAC

What are common signs of an air conditioner in need of emergency repair? 

So, it’s hot in your home, and the air conditioning apparently isn’t working. How do you know if it is a simple problem, like changing the air filter, or if it is an emergency air conditioner repair? The following 6 situations would constitute you have an emergency air conditioner repair: 

• Unusual noises and sounds: This is the top reason to call for an emergency air conditioner repair service call. Odd noises and sounds are an indication that a component inside the system is damaged, and if the air conditioner keeps running, you may be replacing the entire system. 
• Warm or hot air: If the airflow coming from the vents is warm, or worse, it’s hot, this is often due to blockage of the airflow. If you change or clean the air filter and making sure the intake isn’t blocked doesn’t help, you need to turn the system off and make an emergency air conditioner repair service call.
• Ice formation: If you’re seeing water puddling on the floor around the air conditioner system or ice inside the system, specifically on the evaporator coil. Turn the system off for an hour, try it again, and if the ice forms again, make that emergency air conditioner repair service call. 
• Electrical occurrences: If the circuit breaker trips unexpectedly while the air conditioner is cycling, you need an emergency air conditioner repair service technician to check the electrical components. Unaddressed, it could create a fire hazard.
• Odors: If you smell electrical or melting plastic, this can indicate something is not working correctly within the system, this is definitely an indication you need an emergency air conditioner repair service call.

How do you troubleshoot an air conditioner before calling for emergency air conditioner repair? 

Well, it depends on the problem you’re having.  If there isn’t any air coming from the vents, check the air filter. Changing or cleaning could be the fix. If the air is warm coming from the vents, check the thermostat is in the COOL and AUTO position. If not, make the adjustment and see if that cools the air. 

If the system is shutting down completely, check the breaker box or circuit breakers and if they are in the off position, flip them back on and try the system again. If these steps don’t fix the problem, make that emergency air conditioner repair service call. In both of these situations, check the outdoor component and make sure nothing is sucked up the unit. This can block airflow and cause it to blow warm air or shut the system off at the breaker. 

How long does it take for the emergency air conditioner repair technician to arrive? 

This can vary from company to company, and if there is a major heatwave across Vacaville, California. Most emergency air conditioner repair technicians arrive within an hour. Keep in mind that emergency air conditioner repair service calls will cost more when they are after hours, on a holiday, or on the weekend. If you can use fans to keep cool until normal business hours, the service call won’t cost as much. 

In The Heat of the Moment …. 

Once the emergency air conditioner repair technician arrives, they will ask what problem you’re having to give them a general idea. They will check the basics first like the air filter, the air vents, the drip pan and drip tube, and the outdoor component. 

If they don’t find a problem, they will open up the system and inspect the interior guts like belts, fans, etc. They will grease or oil as needed, check the refrigerant level, and other moving parts, making repairs if needed. 

Once they have completed their inspection, they will discuss what they found with you and make suggestions as to what repairs are needed or if the system needs to be replaced. If they are recommending a replacement, you should call for 2 or 3 quotes for a new unit and ask what type of warranty each company offers. While the first emergency air conditioner repair technician may be your knight in shining armor at the moment, you don’t need to make that type of decision in the heat of the moment.

Elite HVAC offers 24/7 emergency air conditioner repair in Orange, CA. Call (714) 464-6622 get set up with an appointment. 

What is the Thermostat Used For?

A thermostat is a device or an instrument that maintains the temperature within given limits. It turns the air conditioning or heating off when the set temperature is reached. 

There are different types of thermostats, such as the one you use for roasting that Thanksgiving Turkey, or the one in your car that tells you that it’s overheating. 

But in this article, we’re going to focus on the different types of thermostats available for homes.

What are The Different Types of Thermostats for the Home?

There are four types of thermostats used in homes today. They can range in pricing from very inexpensive to very expensive, with each one having a different level of energy efficiency. Those four basic types of thermostats are: 

• Non-Programmable 

If you’re home more than you’re not, a non-programmable thermostat is a perfect thermostat for your home. The temperature is adjusted manually to your ideal preference. This is the most basic of thermostats.  

• Programmable 

A programmable thermostat allows you the ability to pre-program the temperature based on when you’re home and at night. These thermostats can be set for each day of the week, and this saves the air conditioning or heating from working when you’re not there, decreasing the wear and tear of the thermostat, reducing your energy bills, and minimizing the need for HVAC  repairs.

• Wi-Fi 

If you have a computer, smartphone, or tablet, you probably have other devices connected for wireless control. The thermostat in your home can be connected with these types of thermostats so you can access it via a wireless network. This enables the ability to adjust the temperature while you’re away, even overriding the programmed setting if desired. 

• Smart 

The smart thermostat integrates with other automation tools and equipment in your home, learning your lifestyle habits, then adjusting the temperature accordingly. It recognizes your family’s patterns and stores that information to provide maximum efficiency with your cooling and heating.

A commonly asked question about home thermostats is, “Should I leave the thermostat at a constant temperature?”, and the answer to that may surprise you!

No! By leaving your thermostat at a constant temperature 24/7/365, it is wasting energy and money and wearing the HVAC system out sooner than needed.  

The thermostat should be adjusted down or up according to the weather.  The excerpts at Energy Star recommend setting the thermostat between 70 degrees and 78 degrees, then raising it another 8 degrees when you’re not going to be home. 

How Much Money Will a New Thermostat Save Me? 

This is another commonly asked question because most of us think, “If it’s working, leave it alone.”. This makes sense, but what if it isn’t working at full capacity? 

A new thermostat will save you money, but there are other factors that play into this too, such as:

• The age of your HVAC system
• The insulation in your attic
• The age and condition of the windows
• The number of people living in the household
• Where you live and your family’s lifestyle

How Can You Cool or Heat Your Home Without Replacing the Thermostat?

Sometimes, there isn’t any spare money for something like a new thermostat, especially when the current one is working! So, here are a few things you can do to maintain a comfortable level in your home: 

• Seal the drafty areas like doors and windows in the winter to keep the cold out and the heat in.
• In the winter, wear layers even inside the house, and in the winter, wear light colors and fewer layers. 
• Use the ceiling fans! Change the direction they are turning based on the season to help regulate the comfort level in each room.
• Have a professional HVAC inspection performed annually. 
• Change the filter every 30 days.
• Keep the outside component of your HVAC system free of any debris, dirt, and grass that gets sucked up against it. 

Can I Install My Own Thermostat Replacement? 

If you’re a handy DIY homeowner, absolutely! They come with full instructions and there are countless videos online that can walk you through the process. 

Of course, having it done by a professional will ensure that it is done correctly, should have a warranty on the work, and will minimize any chance of something getting shorted out. If you have a regular HVAC technician that does your annual inspections, inquire what they charge to upgrade the current thermostat. 

Keeping It Cozy! 

Your home is an investment and the HVAC system is an investment to that investment. Consider replacing your current thermostat with a newer one as an investment that will provide your ROI with lower utility bills and a comfortable home. 

What is commercial HVAC preventive maintenance?

Preventive maintenance is a strategy for being proactive in keeping the HVAC system in good working order. PM (preventive maintenance) by a professional commercial AC contractor will include routine inspections with selective service and needed repairs to the HVAC equipment at scheduled intervals. 

The objective of having a commercial AC contractor perform this preventive maintenance routine is to extend the life expectancy of the HVAC system and prevent disruptions, and unscheduled downtime and reduce maintenance costs overall by correcting defects and issues at the onset. Some specific types of commercial HVAC preventive maintenance strategies are: 

• Routine Maintenance: Cleaning, inspecting, and servicing is important, and should include changing air filters and other small tasks. This can be done by the building maintenance crew or a professional commercial AC contractor.
• Proactive Replacements: During professional maintenance by a commercial AC contractor, this will include replacing broken, non-working, and worn building components. 
• Scheduled Refurbishment: This service is typically done by schools and other learning institutes during scheduled closings. A commercial AC contractor will inspect all components that have defective and deteriorated components, then repair or replace them as needed. 

Preventive maintenance by a commercial AC contractor on a commercial building is akin to that of oil changes on a vehicle. These measures listed above prevent costly repairs over time while extending the life of the system. This saves money for the company and keeps the HVAC system in a healthy and safe operating mode. 

How often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced?

Regular inspections should be performed on commercial, industrial, and other large facilities by the staff maintenance crew on a monthly routine. Professional commercial AC contractors should be inspected and serviced is dependent on the property and any unique considerations. Those considerations can vary based on the occupancy and purpose of the building type, which can include:

• Apartment Buildings and Condominiums
• Educational Facilities
• Healthcare Facilities
• Historic Buildings
• Hospitality Real Estate
• Manufacturing Facilities
• Office Buildings
• Retail Facilities

What does AC servicing include?

Preventative maintenance on a commercial or other unique building setups should be serviced by professional commercial AC contractors that include such tasks as:

Twice a year system checkups (fall and spring) should consist of:

• Cleaning and inspecting the outdoor components
• Check and regard the refrigerant levels 
• Inspection and cleaning of blower, belts, evaporator coil, and all indoor cooling system components, replace any as needed 
• Inspection and cleaning of burner assemblies, ignition systems, and all indoor heating system components
• Test control systems
• Inspect and change if needed all air filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Check thermostat functioning and reset programming as needed for the season

How often should you inspect your AC unit?

And how do you maintain a commercial air conditioner? There are a few things to keep in mind. The staff maintenance crew should perform the following on a monthly schedule: 

1. Air Filter Change 
2. Visually Inspect all areas of the system
3. Clean Drain Lines and Drain Pans
4. Clean AC Evaporator 
5. Clean Condenser Coils

What happens if AC is not serviced?

Neglecting the recommended monthly staff maintenance and annual or bi-annual professional HVAC maintenance by a professional commercial AC contractor can lead to the system becoming inefficient. This causes the energy bills to increase as the system works harder. An HVAC system that must work harder has frequent failures and will need to be replaced sooner than it should. 

How long does a commercial AC last?

If you’re purchasing a new HVAC system for your commercial structure, after the initial sticker shock, you’ll likely want to know, “How long should a commercial air conditioner last?”. In general, the typical lifespan of a properly maintained commercial HVAC system is between ten and fifteen years. With proper monthly maintenance and annual or bi-annual maintenance and inspection by commercial AC contractors, the lifespan can be extended to another 30% or longer. 

 Is annual AC maintenance really necessary?

Paying bills, buying groceries, and putting gas in the car are all things that you know are necessary. But is AC maintenance necessary? No, not really. Yes, you read that right – an annual ac maintenance plan is not necessary. 

If your air conditioner is running okay, why waste your money on an AC maintenance appointment? But we can’t promise you nothing will happen going forward into a hot summer, like a blower motor going out, or an air conditioner that will only blow hot air. If you’re lucky, your air conditioning system may continue to run just fine. However, there is no guarantee you’ll be lucky, and having that maintenance can identify and prevent plenty of the problems that may crop up if you aren’t lucky.

What maintenance does an air conditioner need?

Okay, the salesperson that sold the AC system to you recommended an AC maintenance plan. You declined, then the 30-day checkup appointment, the technician recommended an AC maintenance plan. Again, you declined, but you may be wondering, “What does ac maintenance include?”

The two basic maintenance steps are routine filter change and cleaning the condenser and evaporator coil. You’re in charge of the filter changing – every 30 days, the same time you change the smoke alarm batteries. While every HVAC company will have its own process and routines, the following are generally a part of any professional AC maintenance check: 

• Calibrate the Thermostat
• Examine the Equipment Condition
• Blower components
• Check the Air Handler and Furnace
• Check Electrical Connections
• Measure the Airflow
• Check Safety Controls
• Check Refrigerant Pressure
• Check and Clean Drip Pan and Condensation Drain Lines

Once the technician has completed the AC maintenance and inspection, they will review what they found and advise if anything needs to be replaced. They will also discuss with you when to schedule ac maintenance for the next appointment.

What kind of problems does air conditioning maintenance prevent?

Preventative AC maintenance will keep your air conditioner operating at optimum capacity. With the professional AC maintenance of all the components and if any are malfunctioning, the technician replaces the part, lubricates all components required. These steps keep your AC from freezing up and leaving your home amid a hot summer and maximize energy efficiency, which will save you money on your monthly utility bills.

How often should you clean your outside AC unit?

This step of AC maintenance doing it twice a year is sufficient, once at the beginning of summer and again just before fall arrives. All year long you should check around it to make sure there isn’t any grass or other debris sucked up against the unit and always keep the grass trimmed back.         

During the professional AC maintenance check-up and inspection, the technician will check outside components too. This is where they will check the refrigerant pressure, they will open the unit up, and check the electrical components and blower motor.

Should I pay for AC maintenance?

And are AC maintenance plans worth it? Yes, an AC maintenance plan is well worth the cost, within reason. You don’t have to go with the company that installed your unit, although that will probably be the best pricing. The cost of the AC maintenance contract is minimal compared to the cost of a replacement unit! 

How long do AC units typically last?

Today air conditioners can have a lifespan up to 20 years when proper AC maintenance is performed. An older air conditioner will typically last 12 years. There are several factors that will give you the longest lifespan possible from your air condition system, one starting with the quality of the system. A better grade and model, and a quality installation are key in getting a long lifespan. 

Routine homeowner AC maintenance of changing the filter every 30 days has an impact on the lifespan as will annual professional AC maintenance and inspection. By keeping professional appointments, any small issues are found and handled before they become more expensive problems, or worse, replacement! 

What do you do if your house doesn’t have air conditioning? Fortunately, there are other methods for cooling a home like: 

• Swamp Coolers: Call it old-school, but swamp coolers gave us cooled air for many years before Mr. Carrier invented the air conditioner. They are either mounted on top of the home or installed in a window. There is a sponge insert on 3 sides and you spray those with water. Then the air is pulled in through the soaked sponges and blows into the house. 
• Attic Fans: Another old-school way of cooling a home by lowering the temperature by keeping a constant circulation of air in the attic The hot air is vented out while the cool air is pulled in. 
• Geothermal Cooling and Heating: A far cry from the above-mentioned swamp cooler, but geothermal is as old as the earth itself. The underground temps are more consistent than on the surface, usually around 54 degrees, just 10 feet down! A Geothermal system takes advantage of this stable temperature by pulling heated air out in the winter to warm your home. Or it exchanges the warm air indoors for that 54-degree cooler temperature underground. 
• Heat Pumps: An air-source heat pump will provide an efficient way to cool your home by pumping a refrigerant like that of a refrigerator, through the coils indoors and outdoors. This works like that of a central air unit. 
• Other Options: To keep your home cool besides central heating and air conditioning include room-to-room air condition solutions like a ductless mini-split system or portable window units.

Should I open the windows if the AC is out?

Yes, should you find yourself waiting for emergency AC repair, here are some helpful suggestions to keeping cool in the meantime: 

1. OPEN THE WINDOWS: While you’re waiting for your emergency AC repair appointment open the windows while the temperatures are cool, usually early morning and late night. Open them in a method where you can get a cross breeze through the house. 

2. COVER THE WINDOWS: Keep blinds and curtains closed in the windows where the sun is shining through the windows directly. If you can hang blankets over the windows to minimize the UV rays coming through. 

3. STAY HYDRATED: Sip cold water or any other cold beverage, avoiding caffeinated drinks and others that can potentially cause dehydration. Sipping is key to making it last longer and not upsetting your stomach. 

4. WEAR BREATHABLE LIGHT COLORS: Dress in fabrics that are lightweight and light colors for the most comfort. Fabrics that are breathable include, cotton, linen, nylon, rayon, and silk. 

5. COOK OUTDOORS: Now is the time to grill outside!  If you must cook indoors, avoid using the oven, or microwave as much as you can. 

6. WATER: Other than for drinking, use water to cool down by taking a cool shower at the hottest time of the day, or mist yourself with cool water and stand in front of a fan. Cold, damp washcloths can keep kids cool as they play (making a game of tossing them back and forth), and of course, water sprinkler time is great while waiting on an emergency AC repair technician. Hook up a dehumidifier can help too.

7. FAN IT AWAY: Set your ceiling fans in a counterclockwise rotation to pull the hot air up to the ceiling. Does putting ice in front of a fan work? Definitely! Place a bowl of frozen ice in front of stand fans to blow the cooled air and ice sprinkles throughout the rooms. 

Is it cheaper to run the fan or the AC?

A fan is a lot less expensive on utility bills than central air conditioning or window units. However, using your ceiling fans WITH the air conditioning is cheaper because the thermostat can be set higher, and the fan will do the cooling. 

What is the best AC temperature to save money?

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) advises setting your thermostat at 78 or higher in the summer and 68 in the winter. Because most of us in California and other areas of the country where the summers are blisteringly hot, we want our thermostats much lower. 

For that purpose, a programmable thermostat is ideal. When you’re not home, you can have it set for 78 to 80 degrees during the day (or night) and then have it programmed to cut on to a lower setting within 30 minutes of getting home. Your home will be nice and cool when you come from a long day’s work! 

How many hours should your AC run per day?

A central air conditioning system will cycle every 15 to 20 minutes when in proper working order. At the end of the day, it should not have run more than a total of eight hours with a 24-hour time frame. 

What happens if the AC runs for too long?

The evaporator and coils will freeze up, and the cooled air won’t get blown through the system as intended. Eventually, this will cause the condenser to freeze up and the entire system can burn up. At that point, it is beyond an emergency AC repair, but instead, you’ll find yourself buying a new unit. 

What is central heating?

Basic central heating is a system that provides heat to the entire home after being generated in a central location, typically a closet. Once the heat is generated there, a blower motor forces the warmed air and distributes it throughout the home via the air ducts. 

Central heating systems typically work in the same manner that central cooling systems work, moving the air around to meet the temperature setting on the thermostat in your home. Some central heating systems produce their own heat. There are two primary options for central heating systems: 

• Furnace Central Heating: The most traditional form which uses a natural fuel source and makes the heat from scratch. Air from that heat is then distributed through air ducts. 
• Heat pumps:  A common type of central heating that works year round, switching from cool to heat based on the temperature. 

Is central heating gas or electric?

It can be either, actually. Gas central heating uses either natural gas or propane gas to make heat. However, a central heating system can also be powered by electricity. Both are common in this part of the country, with gas-powered options said to provide a hotter heat. 

When it comes to central heating, electrically powered central heating is easier and less expensive. Electric central heating repairs are also easier because there are only electrical components involved. With a gas central heating repair, it could be the gas supply or the electrical component like the blower motor that needs to be taken care of. 

How much does it cost to install a central heating system?

The cost can vary based on the size of the house, the size of the system, and the work needed to install the system. A gas-powered central heating system for a house that has never had central installed before will require air ducts to be installed as well as the central heating system. 

That means some renovation to the home in the attic, ceilings, crawl space, and the walls of the home. The cost can start around $10,000 and go upward of $15,000 or more. It will take one full day minimum for installation in a single-floor home. A multi-floor home can take up to two days. 

If there is pre-existing ductwork in good condition, the cost is considerably less, being between $6,000 and $8,000 to $10,000 for gas-powered central heating system installation. However, if the ductwork needs extending, repairing, or replacing, this can add another $1,000 to $2,000 and can take longer to complete the job. 

Is central heating expensive to operate and maintain?

Finding the perfect balance for heating your home at an economical cost is a hurdle all homeowners face. What type of heating system is best for being the most comfortable and what type of heating is cheaper to install, operate and maintain – oh the confusion!  So, let’s look that the pros and cons for both electric and gas; you can make your decision from that: 

Gas Furnace

The most common source for a heating system in this country. The thermostat controls when the gas furnace ignites to heat the exchanger for the blower motor to move the air through the house. 

The Pros

• The newer the gas furnace, the more efficient, resulting in less environmental impact. 
• Operating a gas furnace is less expensive than an electric furnace. 

The Cons

• More expensive to purchase, install, and gas central heating repairs are typically more expensive. 
• Gas furnaces must be consistently maintained to keep from deteriorating, which will cause it to use more gas. They typically need inspecting more frequently, they are noisy and if there are any malfunctions with the heat exchanger like cracking, gas central heating becomes dangerous with carbon monoxide leakage.

Electric Furnace

For multi-unit structures like apartments, electric heating is used more commonly. Newer home developments are often all-electric because gas isn’t available in the area. An electric furnace heats the air as it passes over the coils and then a blower motor distributes the heat through the duct system. 

The Pros

• Electric furnaces are cheaper to purchase and install.
• Electric furnaces have a longer lifespan because there isn’t any combustible air involved in the operation. 
• Electric central heating repairs are less expensive because there are fewer moving parts. 

The Cons

• Electrical power can be more expensive in some areas, making operating an electric furnace cost more in monthly utility bills.
• Electric powered heating systems seem to be more eco-friendly until you do an in-depth search of how the power is generated. Some electric power plants are powered by coal, which minimizes the eco-friendly factor of electric powered furnaces.

What is the difference between central heating and forced air?

With a central heating system, there is a central location where the heat is produced and then it is distributed throughout the home. A forced-air system, typically referred to as an HVAC system, utilizes air ducts and vents to send the heated air, or cooled air, through the home using air ducts. 

Will central heating work without a thermostat?

No, a thermostat is what tells the heater to engage so the blower motor can blow the warmed air throughout the home. When the thermostat goes out, usually between eight and 10 years, you can replace it yourself or call for a central heating repair service to change the thermostat out for you. Changing over to a programmable unit will cost more upfront but will save you money over time.

What does it mean when central heating smells like burning?

If you notice a burning smell when you first turn on your central heating system, it is most likely the dust that has accumulated over the spring and summer. Dust collects on a furnace during those months it isn’t in use, so the first time it is operating for the winter, that dust will burn off, causing a burning smell. 

You could also have a burning odor from things being dropped into the floor vents over the summer. Another common issue found by central heating repair service technicians is a dirty air filter. The filter should be changed or cleaned every 30 days so the system is working more efficiently and healthier. 

Sometimes, a burning smell with a central heating unit is an issue with the electrical wiring. This will need a professional central heating repair technician to evaluate, inspect, and repair accordingly. 

What does it mean when central heating is blowing cold air? 

There can be several reasons why central heating is not working. The first thing you should check is the thermostat setting. Make sure it is set to “heat” and in the “auto” position. Check the thermostat setting is at a level that will engage the heat to turn on. 

Another thing to check before calling for a professional central heating repair service is the air filter. If the filter is clogged and dirty, the heating system will shut down for safety because the air isn’t circulating properly.

If you have a gas-powered central heat system, check that the pilot is on. Older systems do not have the enclosed system that newer systems do today and the pilot light often will blow out. Relight if needed and if there is still cool air blowing, call your professional central heating repair technician.

The basic heating cycle for a forced-air furnace heats by way of the following process: 

1. The gas is ignited in the burner.
2. A metal heat exchanger is heated up by the heat of the flames and it exhausts out the flue.
3. The heat is transferred into the air through the exchanger.
4. The heated air is forced by the blower through the ductwork, distributing it through the home.
5. Cold air is denser than warm air, and because of that, it is drawn back in the furnace as the warm air fills the house.

There are several components that, in a gas furnace, work together to make your home comfortable and warm. Some of the components, their functions, and why gas furnace maintenance is important include:

• Thermostat: This is a temperature-activated switch. When the indoor temperature drops below the setting it tells the furnace to cut on. 
• Draft Hood and Fan: As the burners draw air in, the air mixes with the gas and becomes combustible. Today, there are high-efficiency models with a draft-induced fan that makes the combustion leaner and offers better gas furnace efficiency. The fan blows the heat from the burners into the heat exchanger. Exhaust gases are then vented outside.
• Burners: Furnace burners consist of tubes that gas goes through, and then a gas valve, the igniter, and a flame sensor to control the flames. As the heating system requires heat, the gas valves are opened, and the air/gas mixture is ignited. 
• Heat exchanger: There are metal tubes that the burners heat up, and as the gas becomes combustible inside the heat exchanger, metal baffles are heated and transfer the radiant heat to the passing air. If the heat exchanger is damaged in any way, that combustible gas will leak in the house, putting everyone at risk. This is one reason routine gas furnace maintenance and inspection are so important. 
• Blower: The blower motor directs air with a fan, taking the return ducts air into the heat exchanger and forcing the warmed air through the ductwork. 
• Flue: This is where the combustion gases are collected and sent outside, away from your home. They are typically made of galvanized steel. 

How long does a gas furnace usually last?

A quality gas furnace that is professionally installed and has the recommended and needed furnace maintenance performed may last up to 20 years, and perhaps even longer. If your gas furnace is reaching that 15 to 16-year mark, begin shopping around so that you’re better prepared when the time comes and you don’t find yourself making a panic decision with your purchase. 

How much does it cost to replace and install a furnace?

There are multitudes of brands on the market today when it comes to gas furnaces. You want to do some research before purchasing one, which is why you need to start shopping before you need one. Get one that is the right size for your home, and note that too small is just as bad as too large. A gas furnace installation can start around $3,500 and go as high as $10,000, depending on the area where you live and the brand and model of gas furnace you choose. 

If you’re trying to choose between a gas furnace vs heat pump, but not sure which is better for you, consider that here in California, natural gas is cheaper than electricity. With that in mind, operating a gas-powered furnace will cost less than a heat pump. However, the more energy-efficient an HVAC system is, regardless of how it is powered, the less power it will take no matter whether it is electric or gas. 

Will a gas furnace work without electricity? 

You’ve likely heard many say that they like having electricity and gas because they can still keep warm with their gas furnace even if there is a power outage. To clarify, while a gas furnace will need gas to heat your home, it will also need electricity for the blower motor and the igniter. Even if you can get it lit and started without the igniter, it won’t blow the heat out as it should. 

What does a gas furnace that smells like burning mean? 

There are three categories that a gas furnace maintenance call will usually fall under when the complaint is a burning smell:

• Dusty burning smell: This could be because the filter needs to be changed. Try that before you call for a professional gas furnace maintenance service. It can also come from the unit sitting up all summer with dirt and dust accumulating. 

• Rotten egg smell: That is the smell of sulfuric acid that is added to natural gas to give a warning there is a leak. As soon as you smell that, turn the system off, vacate your home, and call for emergency gas furnace maintenance.

• Burning metallic smell: If it isn’t dust burning off or leaking gas, a burning smell could be telling you there is an electrical or mechanical problem that needs immediate gas furnace maintenance service. 

What does a gas furnace blowing cold air mean?

If your gas furnace is giving you the cold shoulder, so to speak, there are several causes. Note that some of them you can fix yourself without needing professional gas maintenance service.

Check the Thermostat Setting

If the thermostat fan setting may be set to ON, the blower motor will run constantly no matter whether you need air conditioning or heat. You want to have it set at AUTO for the best results.

Check the Air Filter

Change the air filter. This should be done every 30 days at the very minimum. When the air filter is dirty, the airflow is blocked from the heat exchanger. This can cause the system to overheat and trip the switch that turns the burner off. After changing the filter, if it is still blowing cold, you’ll need to call for a professional gas furnace maintenance service. 

Check the Pilot Light

If your gas furnace has a pilot light, make sure it is lit. If it is off, then follow these steps: 

Step 1: Turn the furnace 

Step 2: Reset the pilot light assembly switch

Step 3: Turn the assembly knob to “off” and wait 5 minutes

Step 4: Turn the assembly knob to “pilot”, press down hold a lighter to the pilot until you see the flame light up

Step 8: Turn the assembly knob to “on”

Step 7: Turn the thermostat to heat and on

Check the Condensation Line

Check to see if there is water pooled up around the furnace. If so, check that the condensate line is clear and if blocked use can air to clear it. 

Why do you have to recharge AC?

Your air conditioning relies on refrigerant; it is the lifeblood it needs to function. Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from inside the home and carries it outside. Without the refrigerant substance, the entire cooling process of the air conditioning system doesn’t work. This is why if an air conditioner is low on refrigerant, a recharge is necessary to get the unit cooling again. 

Can you recharge a home air conditioner?

Yes, there is recharge refrigerant for home ac units. However, it should be understood that the refrigerant level in a home air conditioning does not get lower the more you use it. The refrigerant in a home air conditioning unit cycles with itself between the indoor and outdoor components. If all components are working as they are designed and intended to, the system should always have the same level of refrigerant. A refrigerant recharge shouldn’t ever be needed as long as the system is working properly. 

There are two circumstances in which an air conditioner may need refrigerant recharge: 

1. A refrigerant leak. The most common reason for a low refrigerant level is a leak in one of the refrigerant lines. If this happens the line needs to be patched or replaced before a refrigerant recharge is done. 
2. An undercharged system. If a system wasn’t charged sufficiently upon installation, it will need a refrigerant recharge. 

Another important note about refrigerant charging for ac in a home, business, or vehicle is that it must be done by a certified and licensed technician. This is because refrigerant is a government monitored substance, much like prescription medications, and not something that can be purchased off th shelf today. 

How do you recharge your AC? 

If somebody suggests that your air conditioning needs a refrigerant recharge, adding more of the substance that makes it absorb the heat and pushes it outside, keep in mind that this isn’t a DIY project. With the EPA regulations that are in place today, AKA the law, a refrigerant recharge can only be done by a certified professional that has been trained in how to recharge refrigerant central air conditioners and licensed to administer this process. 

How much refrigerant do I need?

This is one of the important things technicians receive training for when it comes to working with air conditioning systems. The basic rule followed for the amount of refrigerant recharge needed for a residential air conditioning unit is two to four pounds. 

How much does it cost to recharge AC?

Since an air conditioner should never run low on refrigerant, recharge is only done when there is a leak, and the cost of the recharge will depend on what the certified technician finds wrong. The leak will need to be patched or the line that’s leaking will need to be replaced, if possible. After that, the refrigerant recharge takes place. Because it is charged by the pound, how many pounds a unit needs will also determine the cost of the refrigerant recharge, parts, and labor. 

An experienced certified technician will discuss the problem found and advise you if repairing the unit and the refrigerant recharge is worthwhile or if you should get a new unit. If the unit is older, a refrigerant recharge is only a temporary fix. 

A whole house filter maybe in a housing or it may be a cartridge that is installed into the ductwork right in front of the HVAC unit in your home. Some varieties fit in prior to being installed. Whole house air filtration systems purpose is to remove harmful particulates from the air in a home. Particles like the airborne viruses we don’t see along with mold, pet dander, pollen, and those everyday odors that we become accustomed to in our homes. Whole house air filtration systems clean and create healthy air for the whole home, not just one or two rooms. 

Where should I put my air purifier in my house?

Experts recommend that you place a stand-alone air purifier where the odor is the most offensive, the strongest. For instance, where the smoker in your home does most of their smoking or in a room that tends to have that funky odor. A few pointers where to place a stand-alone air purifier: 

• An air purifier should not be placed  behind furniture or under furniture or shelving. 
• An air purifier should be elevated, but not any higher than 5 feet from the floor. 
• All exterior doors and windows should be closed when the air purifier is on. 
• An air purifier should not be placed near electronics like microwaves, stereo equipment, or near a television. 
• Keep your air purifier opposite side of the roof of a humidifier. 

Trapping odors that aren’t originated inside your home can be difficult, but placement of an purifier where the odor(s) are coming is recommended along with following the above listed pointers. 

Can air purifiers be harmful?

Yes, but no, maybe?  Indoor air purification systems and unit have become widely popular with more and more homeowners concerned with air pollution and the health of their family. While an air purifier targets airborne particles, dust, pollen, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds), there are some unit that produce ozone in the process of cleaning the air. 

There are ionic air purifiers that charge airborne particles and attract them electrostatically to metal electrodes, then as an ionization byproduct, emit ozone. Even if only a few milligrams of ozone are emitted each hour, it is the same amount as what dry-process photocopier emits with continuous operation.

Ozone has been known to cause chest pains, coughing, and damage, irritate throats and cause shortness of breath. Where air purifiers are intended to help those with respirator disease and issues, the ozone created can worsen them and compromise the body’s ability to fight a respiratory infection. 

 If you’re in the market for an air purifier, here are some tips as what to avoid: 

• Ozone Production. There are air purifiers on the market that produce ozone, a known lung irritant. Choose an air purifier that doesn’t emit ozone. 
• HEPA Filters. Choose an air purifier that uses a HEPA  air purifier, the gold standard for creating pure air. Hospitals and other healthcare settings use only HEPA filters for a reason. 
• Individual Room Units. Experts recommend whole house air filtration systems versus individual room unit. Keeping clean, fresh air for the entire home makes more sense then pick and choosing rooms. 

3. Rid Odors

A home with persistent odors from cooking or tobacco can be hard to eliminate. Whole house air filtration systems with activated carbon filter or charcoal filters are ideal in helping with those odors and more.

4. Reduces Everyone Getting Sick

Whole house air filtration systems remove some bacteria and that are keeping everyone in your home from being in good health, especially during the winter  months when houses are shut up. pathogens.

Whole house air filtration systems are the best way to go, but not always affordable or feasible. When that is the case, household air purifiers comparison is better than nothing, and when combined with replacing the central air filter, dirty air has less chance of making everyone sick. Call (714) 464-6622 today for your air purifier installation in Orange, CA.

What are the symptoms of bad air quality in the home?

Your family’s health is one of the best ways to determine if the indoor air quality of your home is bad. If any member for your family suffers from these things, it may not “just allergies” causing them:

• Congestion and coughing
• Sneezing and watery eyes
• Headaches
• Frequent nosebleeds

Pay close attention to anyone that shows these symptoms and if they didn’t show them until they had been in your home for period of time.  Things that can cause poor indoor air quality include asbestos, off-gassing, and toxic mold spores.  These can all create and lead to your family suffering extreme health consequences and developing into a chronic sickness including and beyond chills, dizziness, fatigue, fever, muscle aches, nausea/vomiting, rashes, and shortness of breath.

Your home could be telling you that you have poor indoor air quality too with things like:

• Dust Buildup: If you have a significant buildup of dust on surfaces and around the vents, your home probably has indoor air quality issues. Simply upgrading your air filter to an HEPA filter could be all the fix your home needs.
• Inconsistent Air Distribution: Does your home have cold and warm spots? This is indicative that your home has poor air distribution which probably means you have poor indoor air quality. Have your HVAC system professionally inspected and consider either new windows or having the windows tinted.
• Humidity Issues: The relative humidity in your home should be between 35% and 50% for ideal comfort and prevent the grown of microorganism. When there isn’t enough humidity, it creates a poor indoor air quality everyone suffers from dry and itchy eyes, sinus, and skin. There is n increase in upper respiratory infections and furniture begins to warp. When the humidity is too high, it creates the perfect setting for mildew, mold, and microbe growth. These things can be remedied by adding dehumidifiers and humidifiers.
• Mildew & Mold Growth: Mildew and mold growth typically happen when the relative humidity level is high the air circulation is poor.  A musty odor accompanies mold issues with black and green spots around sinks, tubs, and other moist areas, all creating poor indoor air quality.
• Unpleasant Odors: A home with that musty, unpleasant odors of mildew and mold will usually have a pest infestation, and decomposition of dirt, debris, and dust on surfaces in your home.

What are the 4 major indoor air pollutants?

The Environmental Protection Agency says there are thirteen common sources for indoor air pollutants within four categories:

• VOC
• Biological pollutants
• Combustion byproducts
• Legacy pollutants

 Yes, polluted air isn’t just from factories and vehicles. Four of the most common factors to poor indoor air quality are:

• Carbon Monoxide – an invisible and odorless gas from fossil fuels.
• Radon – a colorless and odorless gas from uranium breaking down in the Earth.
• Nitrogen Dioxide – a corrosive and toxic gas.
• Secondhand smoke – containing over 4,000 chemical ingredients from tobacco smoke

How do you test indoor air quality?

Technology today provides us a less expensive and smaller types of indoor air quality tests using sensors. By strategically placing these sensors around your home as instructed, one very ten thousand square feet is recommended, you’ll be able to test your home for measurement of the following pollutants:

• Carbon monoxide
• Formaldehyde
• Humidity
• Particulate matter
• Radon
• VOC’s

There are sensors that can measure bioaerosols, methane, and more that can all effect the indoor air quality of your home.

How much does an indoor air quality test cost?

 There are indoor air quality testing kits for various pollutants you can purchase for as little as $10.00 at your local hardware or big box home improvement stores.  Along with those kids, you an also purchase alarms for carbon dioxide, fire alarm, smoke alarm, and radon.

Or you can have your home tested by a professional, with rates starting around $250.00 up to $500.00 and more.  The professional tests are more detailed and extensive, including samples collected for analyzing. The more extensive testing, the more it will cost and the longer it will take to get results.