Tag: AC

AC Repair Austin: Tips on How to Choose an AC Unit

There are plenty of reasons why some homeowners might be hesitant about purchasing an air conditioner for their humble abode. One of the most significant reasons is the fear that buying an AC unit might cause energy bills to skyrocket. It is an understandable fear, as those who might not understand how their AC works are not in a position to save money through energy-saving methods. It is the reason why so many ends up having their units serviced by AC repair Austin. Fortunately, you do not have to resign yourself to eventually paying hefty repair bills for your AC unit, as it can be easy to figure out what needs to be done. Here are just a few tips when choosing an AC unit to ensure that you only need AC repair Austin when absolutely necessary. Tips on How to Choose an AC Unit: Ensure you are purchasing a model from a reputable source While the availability of specific sources might be tricky depending on where you live, there are always more than a few sources you can trust in your area. Manufacturers such as Trane can guarantee the quality of their units as they are one of the industry leaders when it comes to air conditioners and heaters. While deciding on Trane ensures you have no trouble with choosing an excellent unit for your home, it does not mean that the rest are not worth looking into. All it takes is a little bit of research to save you from unnecessary repair costs in the future. Be aware of how you intend to use your AC unit Keep in mind that not all air conditioners are made equal. There are some models that are better off in certain types of houses, and the same can be said about all the other model types. It is a good idea to ask the seller questions regarding your home, as well as explain how you intend to use the AC. Whether you want to have it cool the air in one room or several, you will have plenty of options to choose from. It will also ensure that when you eventually need to hire an expert in Austin HVAC repairs, you will not have to pay more than necessary. Keep the air flowing freely in your home Last but certainly not least, there is also the issue of how air flows around your household. Make sure to check whether or not some of your furniture has blocked the opening of specific vents, as it can be surprising how many homeowners forget the placement of vents and block them with a sofa or other item. It is also a good idea to figure out if you want to block the vents to keep the cold air from escaping specific rooms. If you happen to have questions regarding the model you are purchasing, your best bet is to research on AC repair Austin. Otherwise, the tips above are more than enough to help you make the most out of your purchase! Read Also: Removing Air Conditioner Filters: A Guide Don't Get Caught in a Heatwave: 5 Signs That Your AC Is About to Go Out

Don’t Get Caught in a Heatwave: 5 Signs That Your AC Is About to Go Out

Air conditioners cost Americans homeowners about $29 billion each year. But of course, you don't want to pay for a new home AC until you have to. Read on for a list of 5 signs that you need emergency AC repair before a heatwave strikes. 1. Not Enough Cool Air: Is your home AC running and running but the air streaming from the vents just isn't cold? A sign that you have a broken AC is when it begins to blow hot or warm air. It might mean that your AC has a problem with the compressor. Or the Freon levels are too low. Even if the air is cool but not as cold as it used to be, it's time to consider air conditioning installation. 2. High Utility Bills: As your AC unit gets older, it becomes less efficient. Each year, a unit's efficiency goes down a little bit. When an AC reaches around 10 years, it may be half as efficient as it was when new. If you keep getting high utility bills, it's time to look at the condition of your home AC. 3. Little Air Flow: You hear the AC unit kick on, but when you put your hand in front of your AC vent, you only feel a slight push of air. Lack of air flow will cause some parts of your home to get cooled air but not others. Usually, low airflow means there is a problem with your compressor. But it could also be a problem with the ductwork in your house. Especially if you aren't in the habit of getting regular vent cleaning. 4. Strange Sounds: Another way to know that you need AC repair is if you start to notice strange sounds and smells coming from your home AC unit. There are all sorts of sounds you might hear such as grinding, squealing, grating or squeaking. These noises are signs that things are wrong inside your unit. A high squealing sound means that your AC belt has come loose. Or that one of the metal parts in the unit needs lubrication. Grinding noises tend to mean that the bearings in the motor are broken. You may be able to get your AC repaired if you act quickly. Wait too long and you may need to replace the entire system. It's best to have a licensed HVAC technician come to your home to inspect your unit every year. This way your technician can alert you to possible issues that could crop up if left unattended. It's wise to use a springtime monthly home checklist so you can be aware of the conditions in and outside your home. It's often cheaper to repair or replace the part then let the problem go on for a long time. 5. Bad Smells: A strong stinky smell flowing out from your AC vents is a bad sign. It can mean that the wire insulation has burnt out. Musty smells coming out of the vents typically mean there are mold and mildew either in the ducts or in the AC unit. Mold can cause respiratory illness. You should have this issue fixed as soon as possible for the health of your family. Final Thoughts on Home AC Warning Signs: We hope these 5 home AC warning signs will help you avoid an AC malfunction during a heat wave. Remember, it's better to maintain your AC than it is to neglect it and pay for costly repairs. Now that the warmer weather is here, check out these 10 pest control tips to keep pests out this summer. Read Also: 5 Signs The Roof In Your Edmonton House Needs A Repair Interiors To Reduce The Heat Build-Up In Your Homes