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The Best Ways To Maintain an Old Air Conditioner

Prolonging the AC Unit

Air conditioner maintenance is necessary for every type of unit regardless of when it was purchased, but if it is over 10 years old, it may need extra care. To extend the lifespan of an energy-efficient AC, there are a few handy tips for homeowners to follow.

What Does It Mean To Be Energy Efficient?

Energy efficiency refers to how hard the HVAC system must work to produce cool air indoors. If an air conditioner is not efficient, this increases energy bills monthly. To save money while staying cool throughout the entire summer, an air conditioner must be maintained annually.

An easy way for homeowners to extend the lifespan of an AC unit is to change the air filters. The standard time for air filter replacement is once every three months, but this does not factor in large households. A two-story house with multiple children or pets may require a new air filter every six weeks.

Air filters are designed to catch dust, pet dander, and pollen before circulating throughout the home. If the air filter is dirty, this leads to screen blockages. Air conditioners are powerful appliances, but when a clogged filter stands in the way of airflow, it cannot push particles out of the way. More energy is needed to produce the same amount of cool air.

When To Call a Professional

Air conditioners frequently need additional repairs as they continue to age. After a certain point, purchasing an air conditioning replacement may be less expensive. Before buying a brand-new unit, a professional can help evaluate the HVAC system.

Many HVAC technicians recommend spring maintenance. This is because old air conditioners are more likely to break during the summer when they must work their hardest to maintain room temperature. Maintenance in the spring allows technicians time to order parts if repairs are needed and will detect any damage that may have been caused earlier in the year. It also prevents homeowners from surprise break-downs during the year’s hottest months.

To avoid paying extra air conditioner repair costs, homeowners are advised to call a professional before fixing the unit independently. Repairs usually require special equipment; if the job is poorly done, homeowners will have to spend more on repairs. Fixing the blower fan or ductwork can be dangerous without the proper knowledge necessary to use specialized tools.

When Is AC Replacement Needed?

Air conditioners last for different periods, depending on the type of unit. Window units have a lifespan of approximately seven years, whereas a well-maintained mini-split can last for 20. The typical HVAC unit is harder to pin down. Central AC systems experience the most damage in around ten years without annual maintenance. Spring maintenance greatly extends their lifespan and can add an extra five or ten years to the same AC system.

Strange noises such as grinding or squealing may indicate that an air conditioner replacement is necessary, but a professional will examine the entire unit for clarity. In general, leaks and moisture are both signs of a serious problem. Homeowners should not ignore this issue for any length of time. In addition to AC repair services, technicians can give their own opinions about what will save homeowners the most money.

About Air Works Heating & Air

Air Works Heating & Air provides air conditioning installation and maintenance. Call them today to learn more about their $25-off coupon for first-time customers in Franklinton, NC.

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How You Can Improve Indoor Air Quality

What Makes Air Quality “Good?”

Poor air quality has noticeable health consequences. When indoor air pollution, such as pollen, smoke, or pet dander, circulates throughout the home, it can cause allergies. Clean air is imperative for the respiratory system for those with autoimmune diseases.

How Does Indoor Air Quality Impact Health?

Allergies can occur at any time of the year. While they are usually most noticeable in springtime, dust and dander can be problematic even during the winter. Poor air quality has a few recognizable signs that distinguish it from other forms of illness.

Indoor air pollution will not affect the digestive system, but it will cause symptoms such as fatigue and difficulty breathing. Sore throats that last longer than two weeks are usually caused by something other than the common cold. If dirty air filters are everywhere in the home, this may be to blame.

Eye irritation is among the most frequently reported signs of indoor air contamination. Unlike seasonal allergies, this can last for months. It is usually at its worst during the morning, and even with eye droplets, it is unlikely to disappear completely. Older houses with poor insulation can still be treated for toxic particles.

Expensive Air Filters: Are They Worth It?

There are several different kinds of AC filters that can be used in the home. The two main kinds of HVAC furnace filters are disposable and cloth. Although cloth can be reused, it is not superior to the more common disposable air filters.

Depending on the home, most air filters need to be replaced once every three months, and cloth filters should be washed once every other month. There is one exception to this rule: pets. If there is more than one pet, homeowners are strongly advised to change their filter once a month, regardless of the material. Heating maintenance can help if homeowners can’t find the right measurements.

When air filters are old, particles block the screen from catching new pollutants. In addition to regular filter replacement, routine maintenance will help prevent future breakdowns that can affect air quality. Not all HVAC problems are obvious, and annual air conditioning maintenance provides a thorough inspection of the entire unit.

Different Air Filtration Systems

Air filtration installation can improve the health of both humans and pets. During the warmer seasons, it also helps combat indoor humidity. For households with pets, this can also cut down on odors.

Electronic air cleaners are available to get rid of floating bacteria and germs. They also capture larger particles, such as dust and mold. Most electronic air filters are compact and can be placed by a technician in under one hour.

Meta air purifiers are stronger than the average and can cover approximately 1100 square feet. Metal or mesh filters prevent hazardous contaminants from circulating throughout the home, upstairs, and downstairs. A HEPA filter, defined by the U.S. Department of Energy as a highly efficient particulate air filter, can remove almost 100% of mold and bacteria. Air sanitizers are known to help both children and adults sleep easier at night.

About Air Works Heating & Air

Air Works Heating & Air provides air filter replacement services and modern air purifiers. Homeowners can work with their technicians to find a custom solution to indoor air quality, with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about their $50 off coupon for air duct cleaning in Raleigh, NC, call Airworks Heating & Air.

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How to Spot a Refrigerant Leak

Is the AC Leaking?

Air conditioner refrigerant leaks cause HVAC systems to malfunction during the year’s hottest months. AC systems may cease to blow cool air or, in some cases, produce warm air. Since air conditioning units are complex systems with various components that must work together, figuring out the source can be tough for homeowners without experience.

Frozen Evaporator Coils Play a Key Role

Evaporator coils are usually located inside the blower compartment of an air conditioner. Their purpose is to retain cold air conditioning refrigerant to remove indoor heat. If an evaporator coil begins to leak, it can cause higher monthly energy bills.

A chemical reaction between copper and humidity causes evaporator coil leaks. When volatile organic compounds begin to corrode the copper, a refrigerant leak is created. If mold has formed, it can damage the copper by causing frozen evaporator coils.

Reducing volatile organic compounds in evaporator refrigerant can prevent a leak. This will also reduce indoor chemicals. If an AC coil begins to leak, it may create dangerous toxins that must be eliminated immediately.

Warm Indoor Temperatures

AC refrigerant leaks affect an air conditioner’s ability to cool air effectively. Since air may still travel through the vents, it can be difficult for homeowners to recognize the broken AC immediately. If the AC has been running for several hours, but the indoor temperature still feels warm, this is a sign of system damage.

An average cooling cycle should last approximately 20 minutes. The desired temperature is never met if the AC is constantly running. Not only does this affect indoor comfort, but it can also mean higher bills. An HVAC system that is not energy efficient can cost hundreds of extra dollars during the summer.

Refrigerant leaks are not uncommon in older air conditioners. If the system was undercharged during installation, new refrigerant can be added relatively easily. If it is low due to frozen evaporator coils, a refrigerant leak detector can help. Trying to repair refrigerant leaks without the proper tools can cause more damage in the long run.

Strange Sounds

A noisy air conditioner is not normal, even for older units. If homeowners notice a hissing or gurgling sound, it is likely due to a leak. Usually, this is one of the first signs of a problem.

If a refrigerant leak is handled slowly, serious health concerns will arise. Household members may feel nauseous or dizzy the longer the leak is untreated. To prevent physical health risks, homeowners are encouraged to call a professional when they notice unusual sounds or smells from the air conditioner.

Once temperatures begin rising, these sounds are more likely to occur. This is because the AC has not been used in several months and may need time to warm up. Annual maintenance will prevent problems from occurring during the hotter months, but it should be scheduled early. If there is an issue with the compressor, this can affect refrigerant levels when they are needed most.

About Air Works Heating & Air

Air Works Heating & Air specializes in heating and cooling services in Wake Forest, NC. Its technicians have the tools and expertise to diagnose any cooling issue effectively and always offer detailed estimates and explanations before starting any work in the home. Call AirWorks Heating & Air today to learn more about its $40 off coupon for evaporator coil services.

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Three Signs It May Be Time for a New AC

Signs It’s Time for AC Replacement

As winter fades for another season and warmer weather approaches, many people will soon use their air conditioners again. Since these systems have been dormant for the winter, it’s common for homeowners to experience some odd things. Maybe the smell of the vents is a little strange, or the air conditioner doesn’t seem to be cooling the home fast. Sometimes, these are just little things that spring maintenance from a professional HVAC company can address. Other times, there are signs that the air conditioner is failing. In this article, homeowners will learn the difference between the two!

The Home Doesn’t Get Cool Enough

The only job an air conditioner has is to cool the house (well, that and help control humidity). So, there’s good reason to be concerned when the unit isn’t doing its job. However, there are several minor reasons why this could be happening. Just to name a few, a clogged air filter could cause a lack of cold air blowing through the vents, a blocked condenser unit, a refrigerant leak, or a frozen evaporator coil. These issues can be addressed by the homeowner (clogged air filter) or an air conditioner maintenance tech.

But other times, especially if the air conditioner has been struggling, needs numerous repairs, or is old, it could be a sign that the unit needs to be replaced. Most air conditioner units last between 10 and 15 years, and paying for continual repairs when a replacement is needed could end up costing the homeowner more money in the long run.

Energy Bills Are Increasing

In addition to paying for air conditioner repairs when replacement is the better option, there’s also the problem of decreased efficiency. As air conditioners get older, they tend to lose efficiency. This makes them run longer to achieve the desired temperature, increasing the energy bills. To exacerbate the problem, skipping regular maintenance can also damage efficiency and shorten the lifespan of the air conditioner.

Homeowners who experience rising energy bills in addition to air conditioner malfunctions or repairs are often better off getting the unit replaced. Modern air conditioners are more efficient than their older counterparts and tend to last longer — up to 20 years in some cases.

The AC Makes Strange Noises or Generates Bad Smells

Many homeowners experience a musty smell the first time they use their air conditioner in springtime. This is because dust and other fine particulate matter build up in the unit when not used during the winter. This can generate mold and mildew, which can cause that musty smell when the AC is first turned on. While this isn’t a huge issue, it can be a sign of poor maintenance that should be addressed with air conditioning maintenance.

Other smells, however, are certainly cause for concern. If there’s a burning smell or an odor like car exhaust, it’s usually caused by a serious issue that needs to be addressed by a professional as soon as possible. Homeowners who aren’t sure what they’re smelling, only that it’s not normal, should contact an AC repair company immediately.

About Air Works Heating & Air

Air Works Heating & Air professionals have been serving Wake Forest, NC, with pride since 2007. Their NATE-certified technicians are always prompt, professional, and knowledgeable. They also provide up-front pricing and a 1-year parts and labor warranty on every job. Contact them today for air conditioner replacement or repair in Wake Forest, NC.

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You Need To Know About Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps: Frequently Asked Questions

In recent years, heat pumps have become one of the most popular choices for heating and cooling in homes and businesses. After all, their efficiency and versatility give them a leg up on traditional air conditioners and furnaces.

But despite their popularity, heat pumps remain a mystery to many homeowners looking to upgrade or replace their current heater or AC. This article will clear the air by answering some of the internet’s most common questions about heat pumps: how they work, why they’re worth installing, and how to tell when they need repairs.

What Is a Heat Pump (and How Does It Work)?

A heat pump is a type of HVAC system that uses virtually the same technology as an air conditioner – but unlike a normal AC, it can provide both cooling and heating capabilities in the same package.

A heat pump system involves an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser unit. Copper pipes carry a chemical refrigerant between the two units. In cooling mode, the air handler blows indoor air over evaporator coils, transferring the heat of the air to the refrigerant inside the coils. The refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where that heat energy is dispersed by blowing air over similar coils. In heating mode, this process is simply reversed, capturing heat energy from the outdoor air and transferring it indoors.

There are two main types of heat pump systems: ducted heat pumps and ductless heat pumps. Ducted, or central, heat pumps use one large air handler unit to distribute heated or cooled air throughout the home’s air ducts. Ductless heat pumps (also called mini-split heat pumps) instead use multiple smaller air handler units, usually mounted on the walls, to deliver air directly to all the rooms in the house.

What Are the Benefits of Heat Pump Systems?

Whether homeowners opt for a central heat pump or ductless mini-split heat pump, there are several benefits of installing this type of HVAC system:

Lower Energy Bills – Heat pumps are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional ACs and heaters, so homeowners can enjoy impressive savings on their utility bills. This is especially true for ductless heat pumps, which offer even greater zone control and help prevent heating or cooling empty rooms.
One System Handles Everything – Since heat pumps are effective at heating and cooling, homeowners won’t need to install separate air conditioners and heaters.
Lower Maintenance Costs – Heat pumps tend to last longer and require less overall maintenance than traditional heating and cooling systems, and having everything in one system helps reduce service costs.
More Eco-Friendly – Since they draw on existing heat energy in the air (or underground in the case of geothermal heat pumps) rather than generating heat directly from electricity or burning fuel, heat pumps are the most environmentally friendly type of HVAC system.

What Are Some Signs That a Heat Pump Needs Repairs?

Heat pumps can last 15 years or more with proper maintenance, but it’s important to be able to spot signs of trouble when they arise. This way, homeowners can address any issues before they worsen and cause bigger problems. Here are a few signs of a malfunctioning heat pump:

Little or no air coming from the vents
The home isn’t reaching the desired temperature
The heat pump runs constantly without shutting off
The heat pump only runs for a few minutes before shutting off (known as short cycling)
The heat pump circuit breaker keeps tripping
Strange smells or sounds coming from the air handler or outdoor unit
The energy bill is higher than normal for no apparent reason

If homeowners notice any of these warning signs, they should call a professional for heat pump repair as soon as possible. Catching and fixing these problems early can help save money on repairs, extend the heat pump’s life, and keep the home nice and comfy year-round!

About Air Works Heating & Air

Since opening its doors in 2007, Air Works Heating & Air has become one of the most trusted and highly-rated HVAC companies in Wake Forest. Their trustworthy, NATE-certified technicians always arrive on time and provide fast, award-winning service. They offer transparent flat-rate pricing, financing, 1-year parts & labor warranties, a money-saving membership program, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so call them today for heat pump installation in Wake Forest, NC!

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Air Works Heating & Air service area image featuring a modern living space with a wall-mounted air conditioner and a sofa.

How Ductless Mini Splits Can Meet All Your Home’s Heating And Cooling Needs

All About the Ductless Mini Split

When it comes to heating and cooling, most homeowners are familiar with traditional central heating and cooling systems. After all, these central HVAC units have been around for decades and are the standard for heating and cooling in most homes. However, the past few years have seen the rise of an alternative to the centralized system, the mini-split system.

As its name implies, a mini-split is a smaller machine than a central HVAC and is “split” into two component units – an indoor air handler and an outdoor compressor connected minimally by electrical wiring and tubing for the refrigerant. This design is what allows the mini split to enjoy the following advantages over traditional central heating and cooling systems:

Reduce Cost of Energy Consumption

Doing away with the ductwork removes much of the heat loss inherent in centralized HVACs. Lengthy ductwork inside the home is where most leaks come from, allowing heat to escape and significantly lowering an HVAC’s energy efficiency. Because a mini split does not have that kind of area of vulnerability, it is more energy efficient. Consequently, it consumes less energy, and we all know that greater energy efficiency translates to greater savings in monthly energy bills.

Another way that mini splits can save homeowners money in energy bills is because of the mini split heat pump. While some systems are only categorized as mini split air conditioners, most are equipped with both heating and cooling systems powered by a heat pump. Heat pumps are considered energy-saving because they don’t generate heat; they only move it from one place to another.

Hassle-free Mini Split Installation

The absence of ductwork also means that a mini split AC can be installed in less time than it takes to install a traditional ducted HVAC system. For simpler mini-split installations involving only one pair of indoor and outdoor units, the process can be done in a few hours, with more complex, multi-room system setups requiring up to two days.

In comparison, a full, ducted HVAC installation can take up to five days, with two days set aside just for the ductwork for an average-sized house – more for larger homes.

Seeing how these two stack up against each other in terms of installation time gives homeowners a good option for situations such as retrofitting old homes that don’t have ductwork or those without adequate space for ducts. Mini-splits are also great for additional spaces that are used sparingly, such as sunrooms or three-season rooms.

Flexible And Customizable Temperature Settings

Another appealing feature of the ductless mini-split system is how it can accommodate more than one temperature setting for different parts of the home. Centralized systems usually set one temperature for the whole house, which might not always meet the needs of each room.

With mini splits, each room can have a different indoor handler with a separate temperature setting from other rooms with other indoor handlers. This creates more comfortable zones that respond to the needs of individual people in different rooms.

About AirWorks Heating & Air

AirWorks Heating & Air are the trusted heating and AC experts in Wake Forest, NC, and throughout Wake County. This family-owned and operated company has been in business since 2007, offering a full menu of heating and cooling repair, maintenance, and installation, including duct and vent cleaning. Their technicians are NATE certified and ensure a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for HVAC services in Wake Forest, NC.

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Dangers of a Faulty Heater and the Warning Signs

Heating Hazards and How Homeowners Can Identify Them

Problems with heaters and furnaces can pose serious risks to homeowners. From fire gas leaks to gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more, these can put Franklinton, NC households in danger.

Fortunately, households can avoid these issues by properly maintaining their heating systems and scheduling heater repairs promptly when a unit malfunctions. Franklinton, NC technicians explain the dangers of carbon monoxide leaks, mold, and an overheating heater or furnace and how to avoid these situations.

Carbon Monoxide Leak

A carbon monoxide leak is one of the most dangerous threats a furnace or heater can have on a household. This serious issue can even turn deadly if households don’t detect it in time.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen when there is incomplete combustion in a heater or furnace. If the fuel doesn’t completely burn, it produces carbon monoxide. This happens if a heater or furnace is not properly maintained or experiences an issue like a cracked heat exchanger. Improper ventilation can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that homeowners might not notice until it’s too late and they start to experience health symptoms. Some common signs they might notice are headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. If a family has been exposed to carbon monoxide, they must seek medical attention quickly.

A carbon monoxide detector is the best way to alert families to the presence of the gas. Like a smoke detector, these devices can quickly alert the family to the danger, allowing them to evacuate the house and call for help.

Mold Growth

A malfunctioning heating system can produce mold, which can then be carried into a home’s ductwork. Mold typically forms when there is an accumulation of moisture in the heating system or organic material present that it can feed off of.

Some common issues that can lead to the formation of mold include:

Condensation inside the air ducts due to warm air from the furnace meeting the cooler air from the ducts
Leaks in the ductwork that allow warm, moist air to enter the air ducts
High humidity levels in the house add to excess moisture
Dust, dirt, and other organic materials accumulate in the ducts
Poor ventilation in the house results in stagnant air in the ducts

Homes can avoid mold growth by improving ventilation in their house, reducing humidity levels, inspecting their air ducts, and scheduling regular maintenance on their heater.

Homeowners should watch for the signs of mold and call for professional services when they notice symptoms. Some common signs are musty odors in the house, physical signs of mold, or increased allergy or respiratory issues among homeowners.

Overheating Furnaces and Heaters

Overheating furnaces and heaters pose numerous dangers to households. Some of the most common and dangerous threats include fires, cracked heat exchangers, carbon monoxide leaks, tripped safety switches, expensive damage to the furnace, and more.

To avoid these risks, homeowners must watch for the signs of a furnace overheating. They should call a professional for heating repairs if they notice a burning odor from the heating system or a strange humming sound.

Households can prevent overheating heaters by scheduling regular heating maintenance on their unit. Heating contractors recommend booking appointments at least once a year to have a professional inspect the system.

Property owners should also regularly clean and replace the furnace filters – about every 1 to 3 months. They should also ensure the system has proper ventilation and the thermostat works correctly. If homeowners suspect their heater is malfunctioning or their furnace is overheating, they should schedule services with a professional.

About Air Works Heating & Air

Since 2007, Air Works Heating & Air has provided Raleigh with quality air conditioning and furnace services. They offer 100% satisfaction guaranteed for all services and provide straightforward pricing to all clients. Call them today for HVAC services in Franklinton, NC.

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Say Thank You To HVAC Technicians in November

Be Thankful for the Heating and Cooling Technicians’ Superb Services

There is much for North Carolina homeowners to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Their family, friends, health, and good fortunes might be near the top of their list. But they shouldn’t overlook their HVAC technicians.

Homeowners rely on heating and cooling contractors to keep their furnaces and air conditioners running properly – allowing their homes to warm and cool to the ideal temperature. Technicians can keep households safe and healthy through indoor air quality services.

Heat Homes in the Winter

When the temperatures dip in the winter, HVAC technicians perform tasks to keep heaters and furnaces working correctly to keep homes warm. By performing heating maintenance and furnace repairs, heating contractors prevent households from enduring a chilly house all winter.

Technicians provide the following benefits to households by keeping their heating systems working:

A warm and comfortable home during the frigid winter months
Protection from illnesses caused by cold temperatures, including hypothermia
Prevention of frozen pipes
Protection from a malfunctioning heater can cause issues like leaks from carbon monoxide
Energy savings due to a more energy-efficient system

Heating contractors keep heaters and furnaces running correctly by performing annual tune-ups and emergency heater repairs and replacements.

Cool Homes in the Summer

Technicians keep air conditioners running correctly to keep homes cool and comfortable all summer. By performing air conditioner services and AC repairs quickly, technicians can help homeowners avoid hot and stuffy houses.

By performing fast and accurate services, technicians provide the following services to households:

A cool and comfortable house all summer, even on the hottest days.
A healthy household helps them avoid heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. This is especially risky for vulnerable family members, including infants and the elderly.
Increasing indoor air quality, as working heaters accurately remove particles from the air.
Better focus as households can sleep better and more comfortably on hot summer nights.

Technicians keep households safe and cool all summer by performing routine air conditioning services.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

An overlooked benefit technicians provide to households is increased indoor air quality.
Technicians improve the air quality by keeping a home’s furnace or air conditioner running correctly. When working properly, the systems can remove particles and contaminants from the air. Failure to do this can leave a family enduring decreased indoor air quality, leading to health issues and other risks.

Health risks can include allergy, asthma, and respiratory symptoms. If household members suffer from these issues, poor indoor air quality can enhance them and put them at higher risk. These symptoms can be exaggerated if mold and mildew form in the house due to excess moisture.

Poor indoor air quality can also lead to uncomfortable living situations for families. This can make them endure high humidity levels and poor ventilation, making it hot and stuffy in the house.

HVAC technicians help households avoid these issues by performing indoor air quality services, installing air quality systems, and more.

About Air Works Heating & Air

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This Halloween, Prevent Chilling Risks From a Broken Heater

Signs You Need Heating Repairs

This Halloween, avoid a scary situation by repairing a malfunctioning heater quickly before leaving the household in the cold. If a heater breaks down, it can force the family to endure a chilly house all winter.

To prevent these problems, homeowners must quickly identify and repair heating problems. Some signs they should watch for are if their heater stops warming their house, if it starts to make odd sounds, and if their energy bills are increasing.

Home Is Not Heating Up

When homeowners notice their house is chillier than it should be or cooler than the setting on the thermostat, it can indicate they need heating system repairs.

Numerous problems can cause a heater to fail to warm a house. One potential reason is a malfunctioning thermostat. If there is a problem with the wires, batteries, or other issues with the device, it can prevent the heater from running according to the programmed settings.

A clogged filter, blocked vent, or malfunctioning pilot light can also prevent a heater from properly heating a home. Other issues that impact a heater’s performance are a lack of maintenance and if the heater is too small for the house.

Reasons Your Heating Is Making Strange Sounds

It’s normal for heaters to make some sounds. However, if the system makes frightening noises that sound like a Halloween haunted house, it can be time to call in the professionals.

Some signs that can indicate a problem with the heater are banging, clanging, or rattling. These can indicate there are loose or damaged parts.

Screeching or squealing sounds should also be inspected. These can indicate a broken blower motor or a blower wheel. Grinding sounds can also indicate a broken blower wheel.

Other sounds that can indicate a problem with the heater are hissing or whistling. This can indicate there is a leak in the ductwork. Clicking sounds can also be a symptom of a thermostat problem.

If property owners notice these sounds, they should schedule heater repair services to have the sounds inspected and fixed.

Causes of Unexplained Rises in Energy Bill

If heaters malfunction, they can use more energy than is needed – resulting in higher utility bills. If homeowners notice higher-than-usual energy bills, it can signal an issue with their heater.

Several problems with heaters can cause energy bills to increase. These can include signs of aging, wear and tear, and overworking due to dirty or clogged filters.

Leaking ductwork and a malfunctioning thermostat can also result in wasted energy. Air can leak through cracks in the air ducts, and a broken thermostat can cause a heater to run longer than needed, resulting in wasted energy.

Homeowners can save money and get their energy bills back to normal by hiring a contractor to repair the heater.

About Air Works Heating & Air

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Air conditioning unit evaporator coil with metal and copper tubing on cardboard, set against green grass for HVAC services.

Symptoms an Evaporator Coil Needs Cleaning

Signs You Need Professional Evaporator Coil Cleaning

An evaporator coil plays an integral part in keeping homes cool. These components allow air conditioners to remove hot air and disperse cooled air throughout a home. To prevent these problems from interfering with an air conditioner and causing a home to become uncomfortable, homeowners should schedule professional coil cleaning services. These services will allow an AC unit to operate more energy efficiently and better cool a home.

Homeowners should schedule evaporator coil services if their HVAC is not properly cooling their house if frost builds up on the component, or if other problems prevent it from properly cooling the house.

Loss of Cooling Function

One symptom homeowners need to be aware of that can indicate they need to schedule evaporator coil cleaning services is if their house is not cooling to the setting on the thermostat. A dirty coil can prevent the air conditioner from properly cooling a house.

This can be due to:

Frost or ice built up on the coil
Refrigerant leaks
Coil corrosion or damage to the component
Clogged coils due to dust, dirt, or debris

If homeowners notice these symptoms, they should call an HVAC contractor and schedule evaporator coil cleaning services.

Frost

Frost on an evaporator coil can require professional AC coil cleaning services to remove it and allow an air conditioner to work correctly.

If frost accumulates on a coil, it can prevent airflow from properly going through the coil. This can happen for various reasons, including a clogged air filter or a blocked vent. This prevents the coil from correctly absorbing heat and producing cooled air.

Property owners must call for professional services immediately if they have frozen evaporator coils.

The AC Runs Longer

Homeowners should also look for signs that their air conditioner is running longer than necessary to determine if they have dirty evaporator coils. Symptoms of longer cycles can be seen in rising utility bills.

This happens when an evaporator coil is dirty and cannot correctly cool the house to the desired temperature. It can cause the AC unit to run continuously by:

Reducing the cooling efficiency due to frost buildup or dirt accumulation
Failing to absorb heat from the air correctly
Overworking due to a faulty heat exchange process
Inconsistent cooling throughout the house
A malfunctioning sensor that prevents the air conditioner from turning off

Homeowners should schedule AC evaporator coil cleaning services with a professional if they notice any of these issues. An AC contractor will inspect the component and the entire AC system and perform necessary repairs or services.