How to Prevent Your AC from Freezing – Even When it’s So Hot Outside
May 14, 2024
May 14, 2024
Cooler temps are arriving in Texas which means now is a great time to ensure your HVAC system is in top condition. Breaks can happen at any time and unexpected repairs can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
A thorough inspection of your unit can not only alert you to potential problems but will keep your system running more efficiently and extend the life of your equipment.
If you’re experiencing problems with your system, you’ll need to schedule a diagnostic call. A professional technician can identify the current issue and give you options for making repairs.
An HVAC inspection is conducted when your HVAC system isn't working properly. It ensures that your system is operating efficiently, safely, and effectively.
You can schedule an HVAC inspection any time althoughFall and Spring—when the weather isn’t as extreme—are ideal times.
An HVAC inspection will give you a thorough and comprehensive look at the health and performance of your system. Here are some of the items included in an inspection:
The HVAC technician will start by visually examining the entire HVAC system, including the heating unit, air conditioning unit, ductwork, thermostat, and any other related components. The visual examination checks for leaks, debris, and exterior damage.
The technician will check and potentially replace the air filters. Clean filters are essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and ensuring proper airflow.
The thermostat will be checked to make sure it's functioning accurately and properly calibrated. If it's not working correctly, it can lead to inefficient heating or cooling.
All electrical connections, wiring, and components of the HVAC system will be inspected to ensure they are secure and functioning safely.
The inspector will assess the condition of the ductwork for any leaks, mold, damage, or blockages. Leaky ducts can waste energy and reduce system efficiency.
For the heating system, the inspector will check the burner assembly, heat exchanger, ignition system, and safety controls. They'll ensure that the system is producing heat efficiently and without any safety hazards.
A thorough inspection of the heating system should include inspection of the ignition and flame sensor, fan motor, propane pressure, gas connections, voltage and amperage, emergency heat, and safety switches.
For the cooling system, the inspector will examine the condenser unit, evaporator coil, refrigerant levels, and overall cooling performance.
A thorough inspection of the cooling system should include clearing drain lines, clearing emergency pan of standing water, inspection of pulleys and belts, inspection of the blower mower capacitor, cleaning of the blower motor, and an inspection of contactors and capacitors.
The ventilation system, which is responsible for circulating fresh air throughout the building, will be inspected. This includes checking the fans, dampers, and other ventilation components.
The inspector will test safety controls such as pressure switches, limit switches, and flame sensors to ensure that the system shuts down properly if any unsafe conditions are detected.
The HVAC system's performance will be tested by running the heating and cooling systems to ensure they are functioning as expected.
Based on the inspection findings, the technician can provide recommendations for any necessary repairs, adjustments, or maintenance tasks.
Regular HVAC inspections can help extend the lifespan of the equipment, improve energy efficiency, and ensure a comfortable and safe indoor environment. You can benefit even more with a Smart Service preventative maintenance plan from 42 Mechanical. Our low-cost plan includes 2 annual HVAC inspections to keep your system running at peak performance year-round.
To prevent HVAC problems, it's important to stay on top of regular maintenance. This means having your system inspected by a licensed technician at least once a year and changing or cleaning the filters on a regular basis. You should also check the electrical connections and inspect any ductwork for leaks or blocked air vents. Additionally, removing any debris from around your outdoor unit can help keep it running smoothly. Finally, energy-efficient upgrades like a smart thermostat, programmable LED lighting controls, or double-paned windows can help reduce strain on your system and keep it running at peak efficiency.
There are several ways to save money on your energy bills. You can start by scheduling a professional tune-up for you HVAC system, which can help ensure the system is running at its most efficient and make sure all components are up to date. You should also consider installing energy-efficient appliances, using programmable thermostats, replacing old windows and doors with more efficient models, and sealing cracks and gaps in the home's insulation. Additionally, you may also want to look into using renewable energy sources like solar or wind power.
Proper HVAC system maintenance is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and you enjoy a comfortable indoor environment. To keep your system running smoothly, be sure to regularly replace filters, check the electrical connections and inspect any ductwork for leaks or blocked air vents. You should also contact a licensed technician at least once a year for an in-depth inspection and cleaning of your system.
In addition to proper maintenance, energy-efficient upgrades like a smart thermostat, programmable LED lighting controls or double-paned windows can help reduce your energy costs while optimizing comfort levels in your home.
You should have your HVAC system inspected by a licensed technician at least once a year. This is important to check for any issues that may be developing with the system and to prevent future problems from occurring. Additionally, some signs you may need maintenance include an increase in energy bills, strange sounds coming from the unit, an increase in dust or humidity levels in your home, or if it's been more than a year since your last inspection.
Your air filters should be changed or cleaned at least once every three months. This is important for keeping the air quality in your home clean and healthy, as well as reducing strain on your HVAC system. Additionally, you may need to change them more often if you have pets or if anyone in your home suffers from allergies.
Some of the most common HVAC problems include insufficient cooling, inadequate heating, poor air flow, and strange sounds or odors.
Inadequate cooling can be caused by faulty components such as a dirty condenser coil or an overcharged refrigerant system. Poor air flow may be caused by blocked return air filters or registers, as well as leaky ductwork. If your system is producing strange noises or unusual odors, there could be something wrong with a fan motor or compressor unit. Lastly, inadequate heating may indicate that your furnace needs to be cleaned or serviced in order to restore optimal performance.
The general consensus among HVAC professionals is that customers should service their air conditioners once a year. This will help to ensure that your AC is running properly and efficiently, and that it will last longer.
Here are some of the benefits of having your AC unit serviced annually:
If you live in a hot climate, you may need to have your AC unit serviced more often. You should also have your AC unit serviced more often if it is older or if it has been used heavily.
When you have your AC unit serviced, the technician will:
If the technician finds any problems, they will be able to fix them right away. This will help to prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs.
2121 Lohmans Crossing Rd
Ste 504 154
Austin , TX 78734
Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid costly breakdown and repairs. By enrolling in our maintenance program, you'll see great energy savings, ensure maximum system life and make sure your home systems are performing in top condition.
