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Wouldn’t it be great if our air conditioners could pump out cold air forever? Unfortunately, technology has a long way to go before that becomes a reality. In the meantime, homeowners should actively maintain their air conditioning units so they can last as long as possible. Yearly tune-ups will go a long way toward increasing the longevity of your unit. Since air conditioners don’t last forever, there are some key signs you should watch for that indicate it’s time to replace the unit.
1. The age of the unit: A typical air conditioner will last about 10 years depending on how much you use it and how well you maintain it. If your unit is approaching 10 years old, it might be time to start planning for its replacement.
2. Higher energy bills: If you’ve noticed your energy bills slowly creeping up, you could be nearing the end of the unit’s life. As the unit reaches the end of its life, it becomes more inefficient. Look for signs like increased time to cool down your home or if it doesn’t feel like it’s providing the same amount of comfort that it used to.
3. Additional noise from the unit: If you started to notice additional noise when the air conditioner kicks on, or generally noisy air flow, that could be another indication it’s time for a replacement.
4. Frequent repairs: If you start needing frequent (and sometimes expensive) repairs on your unit, you’ll need to start weighing your options. Just like a car, you’ll need to decide if it’s worth putting money into the current system, or if it’s time to get a new, more efficient unit.
New air conditioning systems can be expensive, but the units manufactured today are very efficient and can save you money on heating and cooling costs. If you’re central air conditioning systems is getting older, give us a call at 216.663.6462 so we can start to discuss your options.
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A new furnace and air conditioning unit is one of the most expensive appliances you’ll purchase. Combined, they account for nearly 80% of the energy consumption in your home. But much like the car you drive to work every day, they need regular maintenance. A new air conditioner should last up to 15 years, and could potentially last even longer if you take care of it regularly. Here are some tips you can do to extend the life of your A/C unit.
Clean the Unit. Periodically clean off the outside air compressor with water. A garden hose or damp towel will work.
Remove Clutter. The compressor needs a free flow of air, so be sure not to keep clutter around it. It might be tempting to keep yard debris or tools tucked out of the way near the unit, but don’t do it!
Change the Filter. A dirty filter is one of the main reasons we get repair phone calls. It’s also one of the easiest tasks for a homeowner to do themselves! Change your filter every four to six weeks (or as often as the manufacturer recommends.)
While you can implement these easy maintenance tips yourself, there are a few things that should be left to a professional Rheem Team contractor. During annual maintenance, we’ll check hose connections for leaks or cracks and make sure the condensate tube is able to drain properly. We can also check your ductwork and periodically clean it (every few years) to help improve the air quality within your home and help eliminate dust.
If you have any questions about ways to keep your air conditioning unit running efficiently, give us a call at 216-663-6462.
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A broken air conditioner is not only unpleasant, it can be dangerous for individuals with health issues. As summer gets started in northeast Ohio, a/c units will be pumping out cold air. Units that are approaching the end of their life are subject to breakdowns, leaving you and your family to swelter in the summer heat.
The last thing you want to do is coordinate with various heating and cooling companies over the phone. You want to hire a reputable company that can provide service quickly and affordably. If you know your air conditioner is getting older, it helps to have the contact info of a company on-hand. If you don’t, here are steps you can take to ensure you hire the right contractor.
Step One: Ask if they are licensed, bonded and insured. This is an important question to ask to ensure the company you hire is honest, trustworthy and has financial backup in case anything goes wrong.
Step Two: Ask how long they’ve been in business here in Cleveland. If you want your furnace repaired properly, it’s best to hire a professional. Look for companies that have been in business for at least 10 years. Remember that there a lot of fly-by-night contractors out there who are looking to make a quick buck. Make sure they’ve built a solid reputation here in Cleveland.
Step Three: Ask what professional affiliations they have. Organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) demonstrate commitment to the industry and the profession.
Remember, air conditioning unit should last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is approaching 10 years, be prepared! If your air conditioner does break down, give us a call at 216-663-6462 to schedule a repair.
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lder homes that can be found in Cleveland neighborhoods like Shaker Heights and Cleveland Heights are both unique and architecturally beautiful. These homes often have either steam or hot water systems, so installing a new heating and cooling system presents many challenges. These installations can be so challenging that most heating and cooling companies in Cleveland won’t do it.
However, there are systems available that don’t require you to compromise design or architectural integrity. We use what’s called a Unico System which has a number of features and benefits that set it apart from other central heating and air conditioning solutions.
The Unico System works by creating a high velocity stream of air. Flexible tubing is run through the structure’s existing crevices and nooks, eliminating the need for remodeling or extensive construction. The air is delivered quietly and seamlessly into the room using outlets or slotted diffusers. Because of this size, the system fits where other conventional cooling and heating systems can’t. The system can be easily installed into attics, ceilings, crawlspaces and closets, and installation often requires no remodeling.
The Unico System is very popular with our customers because of the quality comfort it provides in nearly all applications. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, it eliminates drafts and removes 30% more relative humidity. Another nice feature is the huge selection in outlet choices designed to fit any decor or home architecture without compromise.
Because this is a high-tech process, it takes a heating and cooling company with expertise and creativity – something we’ve done numerous times. If you have and home with steam or hot water heating and are considering installing a new system, give us a call at 216-663-6462 to discuss if the Unico System will work for you.
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The average homeowner spends close to $400 per year running an air conditioning system. That cost can increase steadily if the unit isn’t properly maintained. If that number doesn’t get your attention, then consider this:
- Air conditioners account for 8 percent of all electricity produced in the U.S.
- Homeowners spend more than $15 billion per year to use air conditioning systems
- 195 million tons of carbon dioxide is produced from air conditioners each year
The good news is that we’ve got some quick ways to make sure your unit it running efficiently – and they’ll be easy on your wallet too.
1. Change your filter – Want to know the easiest way to prevent an unexpected air conditioning break down? Change your system’s filter! When your filter becomes clogged with dust, dirty and pet dander, air flow within the system is reduced. With a lower volume of air available, you’re putting addition strain on the system. When you air conditioner is forced to work harder, the cost of running it increases.
2. Schedule regular maintenance – Your heating and cooling system is a piece of mechanical equipment just like your car. And we’re willing to bet you get that serviced regularly! A qualified HVAC technician can ensure the equipment is functioning properly. It’s also wise to get this done before the height of cooling season. This way, the service tech can eliminate or fix any minor problems that could escalate as the cooling season drags on – or at least we hope the summer season lasts for a while in Cleveland!
3. Improve air circulation – Ceiling fans use less energy than an air conditioning system and can be useful in attaining an optimal temperature level in your home. Ceiling fans work by creating a ‘wind chill’ throughout a room, and can help individuals to feel more comfortable. The next time you’re watching TV, turn on the ceiling fan before adjusting the thermostat.
4. Pre-set your thermostat – By now, most homeowner’s have programmable thermostats. But in order to realize the cost savings, you’ve got to set yours! You can conserve energy by operating the unit according to when you’re home, when you’re working and when you’re sleeping. This is a smart way to ensure your system isn’t blasting cold air while you’re not home.
5. Clean the unit – Keeping the outside of the unit clean and clear of debris is just as important as maintaining the inside. Here in Cleveland, our air conditioning units get dirty with pollen like cottonwood. It’s wise to periodically hose down the unit to remove any grime – just make sure the unit isn’t running. It’s also a good idea to keep the area around the unit clear so air can circulate freely.
As we approach the height of cooling season, make sure your unit is running efficiently with these easy steps. If your unit does break down this summer, just give us a call. We can service all makes and models. Call us at 216-663-6462.
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Winter may be dragging along here in Cleveland, but summer will be here before you know it. It’s nice to think about backyard BBQ’s and cold summer beverages, but if your air conditioning breaks this July, summer won’t seem so friendly. You’ll be stuck sweltering in the heat, hoping your HVAC tech will arrives soon. For many homeowners, repairing their air conditioning unit won’t be an option – they’ll have to replace it. If you’re in the same situation, here are some items to evaluate and consider.Hire the right air conditioning contractor
Installing a new central air conditioner is one of the most expensive appliances you’ll replace. Because this is a serious investment, it’s important to work with a reputable contractor. Check out our blog post about hiring the right HVAC contractor.
Buy the right size air conditioner
It’s important that your contractor installs the correct size unit for your home. A unit that is too large won’t provide proper humidity control. A unit that is too small won’t properly cool your home. Any reputable contractor will conduct a load calculation on your home using their manufacturer’s software and tools. The contractor should consider items like windows, doors, insulation and outdoor landscaping that may provide shade.
Understand air conditioning efficiency
Everything today is getting more and more efficient, and that goes for central air conditioning systems too. Air conditioning efficiency is measured in seasonal energy efficiency ratings or SEER’s. The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the unit. The minimum SEER allowed for installation today is 13. (20 years ago, SEER 6 was considered efficient so you can see we’ve come a long way!)
Compare system options
Depending on how many contractors you meet with, you might have quite a few options to choose from. You might have a number of options with one manufacturer, and many options from numerous system manufacturers. Remember, try to compare apples to apples as best as you can.
Schedule routine air conditioning maintenance
You should maintain your air conditioner like you maintain your car – with routine tune-ups that ensure the systems is running efficiently. Yearly tune-ups can go a long way in extending the life of your system and preventing unexpected breakdowns.
If your central air conditioner is broken, give us a call at 216.663.6462 and we can discuss your specific situation.
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We all know someone who always seems to be sick. No matter what they do, they are always suffering from some type of illness. But many people don’t realize that poor indoor air quality can contribute to many common health ailments we encounter. Pollutants like mold, secondhand smoke and formaldehyde (just to name a few) affect our health in more ways than we realize.
Research indicates that we spend close to 90 percent of our time indoors, so we are at greater risk with the exposure to indoor air pollutants than to outdoor pollutants. The reality is, we live in a very polluted world. Whether it’s new carpet or an inefficient HVAC system, chemicals are everywhere.
If you think you’re suffering from what’s known as sick building syndrome, it’s always best to start with your heating and cooling system, since that’s what regulates the air flow and temperature in your home. While an analysis of the home is necessary to determine the exact problem, we often recommend a few key steps.
First, we might recommend duct cleaning to remove excess pollen or pet dander. If you suffer from allergies or if you have a pet, we might also recommend a high efficiency filter to help remove these pollutants from the air. We’ll also take a look at your humidity levels and make recommendations accordingly. The humidity level in your home should be closely regulated to ensure comfortable moisture levels. If it’s too dry, you’ll suffer from dry a dry throat, nose and eyes. If it’s too humid in your home, you run the risk of growing mold, which presents its own set of health risks and problems.
Even though indoor air pollutants can be bothersome, many of them are easy to fix. If you suspect you have an indoor air quality problem, give us a call at 216.663.6462.
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Homeowners are always looking for ways to save money. Some collect water in rain barrels while others have switched to energy efficient light bulbs. But homeowners often miss the biggest opportunity to save money – by keeping their heating and cooling systems running efficiently. Heating and cooling accounts for about 30 percent of the total energy consumed in a home – much more than that light bulb is consuming!
Running an efficient furnace or air conditioner is pretty simple. Obviously you should regularly change your filter and use a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature. But yearly tune-ups can go a long way in extending the life of your system and preventing unexpected breakdowns.
Many HVAC companies offer service agreements or service contracts. They typically include scheduled maintenance on either your furnace, air conditioner or both. The HVAC tech will clean the equipment, make sure everything is running efficiently and will make a note of any items that may need your attention. At Efficient Heating and Cooling, we also give our service agreement customers preferential scheduling, so if there is an emergency, we’ll be there right away to fix the problem. This is convenient in the middle of summer or the dead of winter when waiting for your system to get serviced is uncomfortable, or in some cases dangerous.
Furnace and A/C service agreements are perfect for the homeowner who wants peace of mind. Much like the equipment on their car, they understand that regularly servicing their HVAC system will eliminate unintentional breakdowns. Small issues can be fixed with routine maintenance and homeowners save money in the long run by extending the life of the system.
If you’re serious about saving money on your heating and cooling costs, then you must consider a service agreement. We have two affordable options for our customers in Cleveland. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call at 216.663.6462.
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We may be in the home stretch of heating season here in Cleveland, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be paying attention to your heating bills. There are always ways to make sure your furnace is running efficiently. Check out a few of our tips below.
Reduce the loss of heated air to the outside by using kitchen, bathroom and other ventilating fans sparingly. Surprisingly, these fans can blow away an entire house full of warm air in an just one hour. While some experts suggest running bathroom fans for 30 minutes to remove moisture, don’t leave them running longer than that.
Remember to keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use. Estimates suggest that eight percent of a home’s heat can escape out of a 48-inch chimney opening. You can limit the amount of heat drawn from the home during a fire if you keep a nearby window open by about one inch. This provides air to the fire and reduces heat loss from the rest of the house.
It’s always a good reminder to keep your equipment running in optimal condition. Replace furnace filters as recommended by the manufacturer – in some cases this might be monthly. You can also check the duct work (where accessible) for air leaks. Feel around the duct joints for air that might be escaping and repair leaks with a mastic adhesive to better efficiency.
If you don’t feel like your furnace is running as optimally as it should be, give us a call at 216-663-6462.
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]]>One of the biggest challenges we face is installing heating and cooling systems in older homes. There are often architectural challenges that make it impossible to install tradition HVAC systems. That’s why we recommend and install the Unico System, which has a number of features and benefits that set it apart from other central heating and air conditioning solutions.
No matter when your home was built, or what its physical configuration may be, installing The Unico System is always a possibility – it just might take a little creativity on our part! But this system works without compromising design or architectural integrity.
It works by utilizing a patented high velocity stream of air. This air is delivered quietly and seamlessly into the room using 2″ outlets or the 8″ x ¾” slotted diffuser. Because of this size, the system fits where other conventional cooling and heating systems can’t. The modular air handlers and coils can be easily installed into attics, ceilings, crawlspaces and closets. And installation often requires no remodeling.
We are big fans of the Unico System because of the quality comfort it provides in nearly all applications. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, the Unico System eliminates drafts and removes 30% more relative humidity. Another nice feature is the huge selection in outlet choices designed to fit any decor or home architecture without compromise.
If you have and older home and are considering installing a new heating and cooling system, give us a call at 216-663-6462 to discuss if the Unico System will work for you.
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