Landry Mechanical Inc Plumbing HVAC & Electric Blog: Archive for the ‘HVAC’ Category

Do Flushable Wipes Damage Plumbing Systems?

Wednesday, July 20th, 2022

Although flushable wipes are labeled and marketed as being safe for toilets, they easily rank among the worst things that you can send down your commodes. If you or anyone else in your Sutton, Massachusetts home has been using flushable wipes, now is the time to stop. Even if you haven’t had any problems with these products moving through your plumbing system before, you may be on track for major plumbing issues in the future.

Why Are Flushable Wipes Marketed as Being Flushable if They Really Aren’t?

Just as their manufacturers suggest, flushable wipes can indeed be flushed. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they should. Although these products will successfully go down your commodes more often than not, they aren’t guaranteed to pass through the entire length of your plumbing system without causing issues. Moreover, when flushable wipes do pass through residential plumbing systems unimpeded, they can still cause trouble once they enter the sewer. The cumulative effects of ongoing and widespread use of flushable wipes have been incredibly detrimental in this respect. Currently, they are the only flushable product on the market that doesn’t decompose. That’s because unlike toilet paper, these wipes aren’t actually made from just paper.

What Flushable Wipes Are Really Made Of

Like toilet paper, wood pulp serves as the basis of moist wipes. This, however, is where the similarity ends. To ensure that these products stand up to heavy use without breaking down, they’re reinforced with synthetic, petroleum-based products. Many flushable wipes are reinforced with polyethylene, polyester, and other like plastics. Moreover, they’re also coated in micro-plastics. These micro-plastics add additional reinforcement, and some even come in the form of cleaning agents.

When you flush toilet paper, moving water breaks it into small-sized pieces in virtually no time. When you send flushable wipes down the commode, these products maintain their integrity indefinitely. This means that they have a higher likelihood of getting caught up on snags on their way out of your plumbing system. Over time, these wipes and the solid wastes that adhere to them can create major blockages.

How Flushable Wipes Affect the Environment

If you’re thinking about using flushable wipes in your home or have been already, it’s also important to note how these products affect the environment. Not only are they marketed as being flushable when they really shouldn’t be sent down into plumbing systems, but they’re also labeled as “biodegradeable.” This places consumers under the mistaken assumption that flushable wipes really do break down over time. However, there’s a big difference between being biodegradeable and being able to decompose.

Natural products that aren’t reinforced with synthetic, petroleum-based materials break down completely. Flushable wipes simply shed small fibers over time. These polyethylene and polyester fibers remain intact for decades. More importantly, the micro-plastics that coat them continue to contaminate public water supplies long after they’ve been sent into plumbing systems. As such, not using flushable wipes as part of your personal care is better for both your plumbing and the environment.

What Plumbing Problems Can Flushable Wipes Cause?

There’s really no limit to the amount of problems that flushable wipes can cause. These products can cause issues even before they’ve successfully cleared the toilet. For instance, if you send them down with lots of human waste, toilet paper, or other flushable wipes, you could be dealing with a messy overflow in no time. Flushable wipes can also:

Create blockages in plumbing systems that lead to burst pipes
Cause whole-house back-ups that flood the home with black water
Create problems at residential plumbing-to-sewer connections

They’re also capable of creating something known as fatbergs. Once wipes are introduced into plumbing systems, any fats that are present in the surrounding waste will adhere to them. These fats attract more fat and more flushable wipes until a large, solid mass is formed. This process is expedited in the alkaline environment of sewer systems, but if you’ve got dirty, grease-covered drains, you run the likelihood of developing fatbergs directly inside of your plumbing system.

Are Flushable Wipes Safe for Septic Tanks?

Flushable wipes are just as bad for septic tanks as they are for residential plumbing systems that connect to municipal sewer systems. In fact, they may be even more so. Just as fatbergs are prone to forming in sewers, septic tanks offer the ideal environment for fatberg formation, too.

Are There Easy Alternatives to Flushable Wipes?

Flushable wipes are easy to use and they help people feel fresh. However, the drawbacks of using and flushing these products far outweigh their benefits. One easy way to get the same clean feeling that flushable wipes provide is by investing in low-cost toilet paper sprays. These are gentle cleansing products that turn standard toilet paper into a comfortable, cleansing cloth. They don’t contain any plastics or micro-plastics, and they don’t affect toilet paper’s ability to break down. You can find options that include soothing aloe and other non-irritating, skin-supporting ingredients. When you think about it, this is far preferable to cleaning up with solutions made from micro-plastics.

There are also low-cost bidets that can be installed directly in standard toilets. You don’t have to pay thousands of dollars for a luxury toilet in order to get the functionality of a bidet. These products are offered at home and hardware stores at a fairly nominal cost. Best of all, installing them is simple enough that many homeowners can do it themselves. If you want to install bidets in your home toilets, you can also outsource this job to a trusted plumber.

Finally, if you’re looking for a way to both treat yourself and enhance the value and marketability of your home, you can always opt for a toilet upgrade. A reputable plumber can help you learn more about the best options at your targeted price point. Many products offer bidet functionality, music, heated seats, and lights.

Why It’s Important to Get Everyone in the Home on Board

Flushable wipes may be lurking in more areas of your home than you think. Given that these products are handy, people tend to use them all the time. Moreover, nearly all of them are clearly labeled as being “flushable” and thus, people who aren’t in the know will continue sending them down your commodes. You may have people in your home who are using these or similar products as makeup removal cloths or household cleaning tools.

The best way to avoid backups is to let everyone in your home know the truth about flushable wipes. Sure, they can be flushed, but they probably shouldn’t be. Unless wet, flushable wipes are used to clean bottoms and human waste, it is both safe and sanitary to dispose of them in the trash. Rather than using flushable wipes for personal care after visiting the commode, purchase toilet paper spray or a bidet. You don’t have to subject your plumbing system to extra wear and tear just to feel good about yourself after leaving the bathroom.

At [company_name], we’re committed to helping residents of Sutton, MA and the surrounding area keep their residential plumbing in top condition. We’ve been providing reliable HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services since 2008. If you’ve got plumbing problems, we’ve got solutions. Call us today to schedule an appointment for service.

Tags: Flushable wipes, Plumbing tips
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My AC Unit Is Freezing Up: What to Do Next

Sunday, July 10th, 2022

You’re sitting in your home, enjoying a cool breeze on a hot day, when all of the sudden you realize that your air conditioner isn’t working. Suddenly, the weather that was so pleasant just minutes ago has turned into an uncomfortable heat wave. What’s going on? There’s a good chance that your AC unit is freezing up.

So, how do you address this problem? Let’s first take a look at some of the reasons why your AC unit might be freezing up, and then we’ll explore some potential solutions.

Poor Airflow

Air conditioners rely on proper airflow to function properly. When airflow is restricted, it causes the evaporator coils to freeze up. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as dirty filters, closed vents, or a blocked compressor.

As the coils freeze, they become less effective at cooling the air, which can lead to a vicious cycle of poor airflow and frozen coils. In extreme cases, an AC unit may completely shut down in order to prevent damage.

If you notice that your AC unit is freezing up, it’s important to take action to improve the airflow. This may involve replacing dirty filters, cleaning vents, or calling a professional to check for other potential problems.

Low Refrigerant Levels

AC units rely on a closed loop of refrigerant to absorb heat from the air inside your home and release it outside. This process relies on precise levels of refrigerant. If there is too little, the AC will struggle to remove enough heat to keep your home comfortable. If there is too much, it can cause the unit to freeze up.

Low refrigerant levels are often the result of a leak in the AC unit. If you notice that your AC is not cooling as well as it used to, or if it seems to be running more than normal there is a chance that it is leaking refrigerant. A professional HVAC technician will be able to check your refrigerant levels and repair any leaks in your system.

Faulty Blower Fan

If your AC unit is freezing up, it could be because of a faulty blower fan. The blower fan is responsible for circulating air around the evaporator coils. If the blower fan isn’t working properly, the air can’t circulate and the coils can start to ice up.

In some cases, the ice can build up so much that it completely blocks the airflow and causes the AC unit to shut down. If you suspect that your AC unit is freezing up because of a faulty blower fan, you should contact our qualified technicians for a professional diagnosis and repair.

Depending on the extent of the damage, our technicians may simply need to clean or replace the blower fan. However, in more severe cases, they may need to replace the entire AC unit.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The condensate drain line is responsible for removing the moisture that collects on the evaporator coils. When the line becomes clogged, the water has nowhere to go and eventually freezes, causing the coils to ice over. This can lead to a number of problems, including reduced airflow and poor cooling performance.

In severe cases, it can even cause the compressor to fail. If you suspect that your condensate drain line is clogged, it’s important to have it cleaned out as soon as possible to avoid any further damage to your AC unit.

What Are the Dangers of a Frozen AC Unit?

Aside from being uncomfortable, a frozen AC unit can cause a number of other problems in your home.

Poor Cooling Performance

The most obvious problem with a frozen AC unit is that it can’t effectively cool your home. As the coils ice over, they become less effective at removing heat from the air. This can lead to your home feeling stuffy and uncomfortable.

High Energy Bills

As your AC unit struggles to cool your home, it will have to work harder and use more energy. This can lead to a significant increase in your energy bills.

Compressor Failure

In extreme cases, a frozen AC unit can cause the compressor to fail. The compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant through the system. When it fails, the AC unit will be unable to cool your home.

Water Damage

If the condensate drain line becomes clogged, it can cause water to back up and overflow into your home. This can lead to water damage to your walls, ceiling, and flooring.

How Can I Prevent My AC Unit From Freezing Up?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your AC unit from freezing up.

Check the Air Filters

Air filters help to circulate air and remove airborne contaminants, but they can also become clogged over time. When this happens, the airflow to your AC unit is restricted, causing the coils to freeze. By checking and replacing your air filters on a regular basis, you can help keep your AC unit running smoothly.

Experts recommend changing your air filter at least once every three months. The frequency with which you need to replace your air filter will depend on the type of air filter you have and the environment in which you live. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you may need to replace your air filter more often.

Hire Professionals for Maintenance

One of the best ways to prevent your AC unit from freezing up is to have it professionally serviced on a regular basis. HVAC technicians will be able to check for any potential problems and make sure that your system is running smoothly.

The main advantage of having your AC unit serviced is that it can help you avoid costly repairs in the future. Pros will catch any potential problems before they become major issues.

If you need services such as AC installation, AC repair, and ductless air conditioning in Sutton, MA, [company_name] will help you keep your AC unit running smoothly all summer long.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

By setting the thermostat to a higher temperature, the AC unit will run less often and will have a chance to defrost any ice that has built up. In addition, a programmable thermostat can help to even out temperature fluctuations, which can further reduce the risk of freezing.

Unclog the Condensate Drain Line

To unclog the condensate drain line, start by pouring a cup of bleach down the drain. Then, use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up any standing water. Next, flush the line with clean water. Finally, use a brush to scrub away any remaining debris.

Upgrade Your AC Unit

If your AC unit is more than 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer AC units are more energy efficient and can cool your home more effectively. They are also less likely to develop problems, such as freezing up.

Call a Professional

If your AC unit has frozen, you’ll need to schedule a repair with a qualified technician. [company_name] has been helping customers with their AC units for over 10 years. Our team of highly trained technicians is available 24/7 to provide emergency AC repair services.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We provide heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services to Sutton residents.

Tags: AC Tips
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How Long Can an HVAC System Last?

Sunday, June 12th, 2022

Several factors determine how long an HVAC system lasts. The type of system, whether it’s gas or electric, the size and number of units, and the care with which it’s maintained are all determining factors. Keeping reading to learn more about the lifespan of an HVAC system:

Typical HVAC Equipment Life Expectancies

Below are examples of HVAC systems and how long they may last:

Boilers

Boilers typically last 20 years or longer, depending on how well they are maintained. A boiler can fail much sooner than expected if it is not properly installed and maintained.

Air Conditioners

Air conditioners typically last between 15 and 20 years before needing replacement, depending on how well they are maintained. If an air conditioner is not properly installed and maintained, it can fail sooner than expected.

Heat Pumps

They typically last 10 to 20 years if properly maintained but may need replacement sooner if not properly installed or maintained by a qualified technician.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits have become popular in recent years because they provide heating and cooling without requiring ductwork in your home. Ductless mini-splits, like heat pumps, have an average lifespan of 10 to 30 years.

Major Factors That Affect HVAC System Expectancy

Many factors affect the life of your home or business’s HVAC system, Including:

Condition of Installation

Poorly installed furnaces fail sooner than properly installed units because the installation may have been done incorrectly or incompletely. These issues include improper wiring, poor insulation work around the unit, and poor ductwork installation. In addition, even if a furnace is properly installed, if not maintained regularly, it will operate inefficiently and prematurely wear out components like blowers, motors, and heat exchangers.

Age

The age of the unit is one of the primary factors determining how long an air conditioner will last. Units built between 1993 and 1998 are expected to last about 10 years, while units built between 2003 and 2006 have a lifespan of 15 years or more. If you’re not sure if your unit is from this period or not, you can check by looking at the model number stamped on the back or bottom of the unit.

Usage

The amount of use also affects how long an HVAC system will last. For example, turning on your AC frequently or letting it run when no one is home could shorten its lifespan by hundreds of dollars per year. On the other hand, if you turn it off regularly and don’t allow it to run unnecessarily, this will extend its useful life considerably longer than average.

Air Duct Leakage

The most common cause of system failure is air duct leaks, which can result from cracks in your ductwork or corroded connections. If you notice any leaks around your AC unit, you should have it inspected by a professional before it becomes a bigger problem. The best way to prevent this problem is to inspect your ductwork regularly and replace any worn or damaged parts.

Dryer Vent Blockage

Another common cause of AC failure is dryer vent blockage, which happens when lint or debris gets into your dryer vent and clogs up the return air hose that leads back to the outside air intake. Vent cleaning tools are available at any hardware store and will help you clear out whatever is blocking your dryer vent so that it can function normally again.

Size

The size of your air conditioner plays an important role in how long it will last. Finding replacement parts may not be easy if you have an old unit. On the other hand, newer models are more likely to last longer because they use more efficient technology and components.

Type

The type of cooling system that you have can also affect how long it will last. For example, air conditioning units with refrigerant lines tend to have shorter lifespans than units without refrigerant lines because refrigerants are used in these systems and must be replaced periodically.

Poor Refrigerant Recovery (Refrigeration Cycle)

When your system is not running properly, it may not be able to recover the refrigerant it uses to maintain its temperature. This reduces the amount of refrigerant available for cooling purposes and can lead to compressor failure over time.

Poorly Maintained Systems

Inadequate maintenance will increase energy consumption, operating expenses, and carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, poor maintenance might cause your HVAC system to perform poorly, which can shorten its typical lifespan.

8 Tips to Increase the Life Expectancy of Your HVAC System

There are many things to consider when it comes to increasing the life expectancy of your HVAC system. Below are tips that can help you improve it:

1. Don’t Let Your System Get Too Hot

Heat is one of the biggest enemies of a heating and cooling system. Your system will work at its best when the outside temperature is below 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the indoor temperature is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

Replace your air filter regularly, about every three months. It’s essential to ensure that your furnace or air conditioner works as efficiently as possible.

3. Maintain an Adequate Supply of Refrigerant

This helps prevent leaks and reduces energy consumption. If you’re noticing issues with the cooling levels of your AC unit, it might need recharging by a professional.

4. Keep It Clean

Dust buildup can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system and cause it to overheat or over-cool occasionally. Cleaning out your vents periodically will keep them running smoothly, which means fewer repairs down the road!

5. Check for leaks

Leaks in your ductwork can cause your system to run inefficiently or not at all, so be sure to check for signs of leakage every six months or so by using a flashlight while wearing protective gear like rubber gloves and goggles.

6. Be Sure Your Unit Is Properly Installed

Ensure that your air conditioning unit is properly installed to provide proper cooling for your home. A poorly installed air conditioning unit can lead to leaks, overheating, and other issues.

7. Have the System Inspected

Regular inspections can help you detect problems before they become too expensive to repair or replace. It’s also important to check your system regularly for safety concerns like leaks, clogged filters, and carbon monoxide leaks.

8. Regular Maintenance

Regularly scheduled maintenance is an important part of ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC system. This may include cleaning filters, changing out air filters, and more.

If you’re looking for HVAC equipment maintenance and repair in the Central & Metro West Massachusetts area, look no further than [company_name]. We offer a broad range of assistance to keep your heating, cooling, and ventilation systems operating at peak efficiency. Our highly trained technicians are well-versed in-home comfort, including ventilation systems, heat pumps, boilers, and more. We can handle everything from simple repairs to full system replacements. If you need an HVAC company in your area that offers comprehensive HVAC services, call us at [company_name] today.

Tags: HVAC Lifespan
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Quick and Efficient Ways to Clean Your AC Drain Line Clog

Tuesday, May 17th, 2022

Your AC condensate drain line removes condensation from the evaporator coil to prevent leaks and ice clogs. The drain has an exterior opening through which sludge, debris, and bacteria can find their way into your system. The buildup of these elements in your drain line can cause clogs, which, if not cleaned, can lead to water damage and mold growth. Drain line clogs are preventable, and homeowners who schedule regular, professional drain line cleaning services will rarely deal with clogged drains.

It does not require a third eye to detect clogs in your air conditioner drain line. Drain line clogs cause almost the same issues other AC problems cause, including poor performance, increased energy bills, and bad odors. An air conditioner with a clogged condensate drain line may also have an overflowing drain pan. Removing drain clogs is not entirely a professional job, but calling your AC technician should be the first line of action when you detect drain line clogs. To unclog your drain lines at home, check out the following tips.

Start By Locating Your AC Drain Pipe Opening

The initial most essential step to removing drain clogs is to identify the exact location of the AC drainpipe opening. You don’t need expensive tools or decade-long skills to locate a condensate drain and exterior AC unit outlet. Finding such pipe won’t be a hassle if the place you live in receives a humid climate throughout the year. The drain works more in humid weather to remove excess moisture, and lots of water pours out during this time of the year. To identify the drainpipe, you need to look at the area outside your ducting system with more water flowing out.

However, in winter, when the climate is super cold, and humidity levels are low, it will not be an easy task to locate the AC drainpipe opening. In fact, it could take you days or even weeks to identify the drainpipe, especially if you’re not familiar with the setup of the outdoor AC unit. However, you shouldn’t subject yourself to days of futile searching. It only requires knowing the shape, size, and possible locations where the drain pipe could be found. To cut a long story short, an AC drain pipe is a 3/4–inch PV pipe that elongates from the eaves or wall of your home. The opening at the end of this pipe is the drainpipe opening.

Locate the Exact Location Where Your Drain Pipe Connects to the Evaporator Coil

Now that you’ve located your drain opening, it’s time to identify the joint connecting the drainpipe to the evaporator coil. Check the opposite end of your air conditioner pipe and locate the joint connecting the line to the evaporator coil. In a standard setting, water extracted from the evaporator coil will accumulate in the drain fan before channeling out into the drain pipe.

Usually, the water flowing out will make the pipe curve down to create a trap. The drain pipe will have a cleanout at its top section just before the trap. You need to identify the cleanout because it’s from that exact point you will be doing the cleaning work.

Open Your AC Cleanout to Locate the Drain Pipe

The cleanout offers access to the drainpipe, allowing easy cleaning of the mess blocking water flow. It’s the exact opening you need to add chemicals and solutions for cleaning clogs inside your AC drain pipe. In the manufacturer’s state, the cleanout will be sealed, although some manufacturers don’t usually cap the cleanout. Start by removing the slip cap encasing the cleanout if your cleanout comes with a seal. Keep the cleanout seal safely because you need to fix it back to its original position after cleaning your drain line clog.

You can tell the amount of clog and how far the clog is through the cleanout opening. Use a torch to observe the inside of the drain pipe. If the clog is in a close view location, you will notice spiteful substances, including mold and green slime. However, if the clog is not in close range, you may not see anything when you flash the light into the drain pipe.

Pour Your Cleaning Agent Down the Cleanout

Now flush out the clog with the proper cleaning agent. Look for a cleaning agent with potent antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. You want to remove the clog and still cleanse the bacteria and fungi accumulated in your drain pipe. You can use standard fragrance-free laundry bleach if you’re low on budget. Ordinary laundry bleach is cheap, available, and can do the job excellently.

Add the right amount into the cleanout outlet, and allow it to flow into your drain pipe. The cleanout opening has a limited circumference, so you need to use a funnel to safely add the laundry bleach into your drain line. Watch the flow of the bleach, and if it gurgles or fails to flow, allow it some minutes to flow. You’re advised to add as much cleaning agent as you can. Don’t cleanse the drain line immediately after adding the cleaning agent.

Now Rinse the Drain Pipe

Now that you have poured the cleaning agent and allowed enough time to bleach and remove the mold and slime, you need to rinse the drain line. The setup of the drainpipe enables most of the cleaning bleach to drain out on its own, but all contents of the bleaching agent won’t be removed unless you rinse it out. Allowing the bleach to sit in the drain pipe for an extended period will damage your PVC pipe. It could as well shorten its lifespan.

Don’t celebrate too early and forget the important step of rinsing your drain pipe. Make sure you rinse everything out using hot water. Confirm all debris and bleach contents have been rinsed out before setting the drainpipe seal back to the cleanout opening.

Other Possible Ways to Remove the Clog

Using a cleaning agent is not the only way to clean drain line clogs. You can also use a wet-dry vacuum or plumber’s snake to remove the clog. If you have a plumber’s snake or wet-dry vacuum, you will need to open and put off the AC service panel to access the drip pan and drain. Setup the wet-dry vacuum hose on the tee feature with the threaded plug on your service panel, and then run the vacuum for approximately five minutes to remove the clog. If you’re using a plumber’s snake, you must do it such that you have removed all the buildup before pulling out the snake. After cleaning with a wet-dry vacuum or plumber’s snake, you’ll need to pour vinegar into the drainpipe to remove the remaining clogs.

Remember that DIY drain line unclogging methods don’t always work. If you tried these tricks to no avail or have no time to conduct DIY drain line clog removal, talk with qualified technicians at [company_name]. We’re a top-leading HVAC company serving clients in central & Metro West Massachusetts, committed to exceeding our clients’ expectations. We have been in the HVAC and plumbing industry since 2008 and have managed to serve thousands of satisfied clients. The factory-trained and certified at [company_name] have the expertise to handle air conditioner repairs, installations, and replacements.

Tags: AC maintenace, AC Repair
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A Guide to Portable Air Conditioners and How They Work

Tuesday, May 10th, 2022

With the summers in Massachusetts tending to be quite hot and humid, having adequate air conditioning in your home is vital. In this sense, there are a variety of different options that can help keep your house cool, including portable air conditioners. Although they can help to overcome issues with high indoor heat and humidity, a portable AC usually isn’t the best option. To understand why, let’s look at how portable air conditioners work and how they compare to other types of AC units.

How Air Conditioning Produces Cooling

All types of air conditioning systems, including portable ACs, work in exactly the same way. Although most people believe that air conditioning produces cold air, this technically isn’t true. Instead, air conditioning works by absorbing heat and humidity from the air. As a result, the air coming out of the system is much colder than the air going into it. Typically, the air coming out of the system will be around 20 degrees cooler than the air inside the building.

All air conditioning systems require three main things to function: refrigerant to absorb heat from the air, a fan to move the air, and a compressor to turn the refrigerant from a gas into a liquid. The process works like this. First, the air conditioner draws hot air into the system and forces it over an evaporator coil that contains cold refrigerant liquid. The refrigerant works to absorb the heat from the air. As part of this process, moisture in the hot air condenses into water, which is how air conditioning also reduces the humidity level.

As the refrigerant absorbs heat energy from the air, it warms up the refrigerant and turns it from a liquid to a gas. The heat that’s collected from the air is then vented outside the building. With a central AC or ductless air conditioner, the heated refrigerant is directed outside the building to the compressor unit, whereas a portable AC uses a hose to blow the heat outside. In either case, the refrigerant liquid then passes through the compressor that condenses the refrigerant. This turns it back from a gas into a liquid while simultaneously cooling the refrigerant so that it can be sent back to the evaporator coil.

Types of Portable Air Conditioners

If you’re shopping for a portable air conditioner, there are several options for you to consider. Portable ACs can differ based on both where they draw the hot air from and how they deal with the moisture that they absorb from the air. In terms of moisture, a portable AC will either have an evaporation system that pumps the water vapor outside the house or a reservoir that collects the moisture from the evaporator coil. Portable ACs with an evaporation system are by far more convenient since you won’t have to worry about dumping water out of the reservoir or it overflowing, but they’re also more expensive.

In terms of where the system draws the hot air from, there are both single-hose and dual-hose models. With a single-hose unit, the system will take the hot air directly from the room where the unit is located. The issue with this is that it creates negative pressure inside the space. When negative pressure is created, the air inside the room will need to be replaced.

In most cases, a single-hose portable AC will cause hot air to be drawn inside the building through any windows, doors, or anywhere else where air can leak in from outside. Typically, this results in those other areas becoming much hotter and more humid due to the outside air leaking in. Although this type of unit can be good at cooling one room or area, it will often raise the overall temperature inside the rest of the building.

A dual-hose system overcomes this issue by instead drawing hot air into the system from outside of the house to maintain the pressure inside the building. With this system, one hose is responsible for drawing hot air into the unit and the other hose then vents the heat absorbed by the system back outside. The only real drawback to a dual-hose unit is that they tend to be quite a bit louder than a single-hose system. This is because a more powerful fan is required to draw air in from outside compared to taking the air from around the unit.

Comparing Portable ACs to Other Cooling Systems

Although portable ACs function in the same way as all other air conditioning systems, they tend to use far more energy. This is why they’re usually only recommended for situations where you don’t have any other options, like if your building regulations won’t allow you to install a window AC unit. To understand why this is, it’s important to look at how the energy efficiency of air conditioners is measured.

The energy efficiency of an air conditioner is measured by comparing how many BTUs (British Thermal Units) of cooling are produced per watt of electricity the system uses. Generally speaking, most portable air conditioners consume much more energy to produce the same cooling output as a window AC unit, and this difference becomes even greater when comparing portable ACs to central air conditioning or ductless units.

Compared to other AC systems, portable units are also less effective. In most cases, they’re really only suited for smaller rooms. If you’re trying to cool a larger area, you’ll get much better results and use less energy by using a powerful window AC unit.

All this being said, portable ACs do have their advantages. For starters, they’re much easier to move around and install compared to a window AC unit. This means you can easily cool any space in your home by moving the unit and attaching the hose to the window kit. Another advantage of portable ACs is that they’re usually a bit quieter than window units.

Alternatives to Portable Air Conditioners

Portable ACs aren’t really an effective option for cooling anything other than one room. In most cases, they’re used to supplement a home’s existing AC system or to add cooling to any areas not connected to the central HVAC system. Still, if you’re considering a portable AC for these purposes, you’re generally always better off going with either a window unit or a ductless AC system.

Ductless ACs are usually the most energy-efficient option. In fact, ductless systems tend to be far more energy-efficient than even central air conditioners. These systems work exactly like a central AC, except they utilize one or more separate air handlers for each space. The benefit of this type of system is that it allows you to control the temperature at each air handler independently. Although ductless systems are definitely more expensive than window units and portable ACs, they can be well worth it both for the increased comfort level and energy savings they provide.

If you’re considering your options for cooling your home, [company_name] can help you determine what type of air conditioning system is the best choice. We specialize in a full range of cooling and heating services from maintenance and repairs to installation. Our team also includes professional plumbers and electricians who can maintain and repair your home’s plumbing and electrical systems. We’re located in Sutton, and our team serves customers throughout central Massachusetts and the MetroWest area. To learn more about your AC options or to schedule an appointment, contact [company_name] today.

Tags: Ductless, Portable AC
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What Makes Water Leaks in Air Conditioners

Thursday, May 5th, 2022

One of the shortcomings of owning an air conditioner is paying for repairs and being on the watch for issues that could wreck and make it fail untimely. One of the issues that rarely happen but have consequential effects on the performance of your air conditioner is water leaks. An air conditioner must not leak unless it has faults. If your air conditioner leaks, you may be looking at a problem that requires hundreds of dollars to repair. Water leaks in air conditioners don’t just happen. When your AC leaks, it signifies an underlying problem that needs professional attendance. Stay tuned to know why air conditioners leak water.

Clogged AC Drain Line

Air conditioner water leaks are customarily linked to clogs in the drain line. It’s a reality that when the drain line gets clogged, water will leak, especially because the humidity from your indoor air won’t be drained efficiently. The drain line’s core role is to make certain humidity formed inside the unit is drained out efficiently. And if by mistake, the unit cannot remove the humidity because of faults or clogging, you will witness water leaking from the sides or below the air conditioner.

Drain line clogs are typical AC issues primarily because the drainpipe handles most of the mess from the exterior unit. If the drain line is not cleaned regularly, the mess may build up to cause clogs. A drain line gets clogged for various reasons, including dust and dirt buildup. Once the drain line has a clog, water drainage will be hindered, causing backup and leaks. Even though drain line clogs are common, they are not as complicated to solve. In fact, with a plumber’s snake or wet-dry vacuum, your technician can have the issue resolved promptly.

Freezing of the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil may not be one of the AC parts you see and talk about regularly, but that doesn’t make it insignificant. Once the evaporator coil suffers a blow, it will directly affect the air conditioning unit. The evaporator coil is tasked with cooling down the air conditioner’s refrigerant. It has been programmed to extract heat from your home’s air and transmit the heat into the condenser coil in the outdoor unit.

When the evaporator coil gets covered by dirt or dust, making it strain to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air, it will become cold, and ice will form around it. If such an issue is not noticed and sorted with uttermost urgency, the ice will collect around the whole system. And as the temperatures rise, causing the ice to melt, water will be released, which may drip from the unit. A frozen evaporator coil risks the performance and health of your air conditioner, so endeavor to have the problem troubleshot by an expert the quickest you can.

Insufficient Refrigerant

Insufficient refrigerant may also cause leaks in your air conditioning unit. Air conditioners rely on the refrigerant to operate but consume it at a low rate. Indeed, the refrigerant may take twelve to twenty-four months before it’s exhausted. When the refrigerant reduces to an extremely low rate, your AC will start producing a bubbling or hissing sound. The refrigerant helps the air conditioner effectively extract heat from the distributed indoor air.

When the refrigerant level reduces, the unit won’t have the capacity to extract heat from the indoor air. That would make your air conditioner unable to cool your indoor space and possibly trigger the formation of ice around your evaporator coil. And you know, when the ice starts melting, the water will be expelled out through all openings in the air conditioner. So if you notice water leaks in your air conditioner, the culprit could be a lack of sufficient refrigerant.

Filthy Air Filters

Water leaks from the air conditioner when the unit has an issue with filthy air filters. Air filters are supposed to be changed often, especially at a pace of thirty days if you have pets or 90 days if you don’t have pets. It’s not mandatory to keep track of the age and condition of the air filters if you invest in the smart air filters that let you know when they are due for changing.

When the air filters get filthy, they force the air conditioner to overdrive, making it inefficient and unreliable. A dirty air filter can also affect airflow to the evaporator coil, which increases the risk of the evaporator coil freezing. Over time, the ice formed around the coil will melt, leading to water overflowing in the drain pan. Excess water flow will often lead to water leaking into every hole in the air conditioner that penetrates outdoors.

Rusty or Damaged Drain Pan

Another popular cause of water leakage in your air conditioner is a damaged or rusty drain pan. The drain pan is responsible for holding moisture collected from the moisture extracted from the air flowing in your home. Once the moisture has collected into the drain pan, it’s pushed into the drainpipe and later the outdoor unit. It’s the responsibility of the drain pain to contain the moisture and prevent it from dripping into the interior unit to trigger leaking.

The drain pan is shallow and won’t hold much water, so if the drain line has a clog, it may overflow and cause leaking. And as you know, water that leaks out of the drain pain will flow into your home. Similarly, when the drain pan is old or gets damaged, it won’t contain the water channeled through it, meaning it will allow it to leak into the interior AC unit. An old and damaged drain pan may develop cracks and holes that allow water to flow out.

Damaged Condensate Pump

Finally, your air conditioning unit will leak when the condensate pump develops issues. Condensate pumps are installed in your air conditioner to facilitate smooth water drainage from the drain pan. By default, an air conditioner does not have a gravity-supported design that allows water to flow from the drain pan to the exterior by itself. Whether your air conditioner is installed in an attic or basement, it won’t drain out the water on its own.

That is why air conditioners have a centrifugal pump to assist in pushing water out of the interior unit into the exterior unit. That works such that when the condensate moved through the evaporator coil hits a specified level of the pump tank, it will activate the float switch and then the centrifugal pump. In an unfortunate situation where the pump is faulty, water won’t be pushed out. It will overfill the drain pan causing leaks.

These are air conditioner issues that lead to water leaking from the indoor unit. These are issues beyond the knowledge of a homeowner, so it’s advised when you discover them to call our qualified HVAC experts at [company_name]. We have a long-established reputation as a top provider of top-tier air conditioner repair, installation, and maintenance services in Central & Metro West Massachusetts. Our experienced team works closely with our clients to establish custom and robust solutions to all air conditioner-related problems. Whether you want to install a new system, repair a leaky unit or service the AC to keep it working optimally, consulting [company_name is the best decision to make. Call us now for free quotes!

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Will a Smart Thermostat Save You Money?

Tuesday, April 19th, 2022

Yes, a smart thermostat will definitely save you money! A conservative estimate is that any household can lower its annual heating and cooling bill by at least 8% by upgrading from a manual thermostat to a smart thermostat. Total savings do vary from home to home because it depends on factors like heating and cooling equipment age, natural and mechanical ventilation, insulation, and the various resources that the smart thermostat has available to it. A smart thermostat will be able to save you more, for instance, if your home HVAC system is zoned. With that in mind, let us consider the major smart thermostat features that are available and how they can help you save money.

Learning

The ability to learn is one of the defining characteristics that distinguish smart thermostats from programmable thermostats. The most advanced thermostats on the market are able to collect data about your household, analyze it, and automatically adjust their programming based on that analysis. Not only does this help you save money, but it makes the device more user-friendly. With a programable thermostat, it is easy to be inaccurate, make a mistake, or forget, but a thermostat that is able to learn is constantly adjusting its programming organically based on your tendencies.

Internet-based Resources

Most smart thermostats are Wi-Fi capable so that they can communicate with other smart devices. But it also allows them to connect to the internet through your home network, and that provides a number of advantages, including the ability to access real-time data. The best energy-saving thermostats on the market are able to poll real-time weather information. If a cold front is on its way, for instance, the thermostat can adjust itself proactively in order to minimize energy consumption.

Mobile Notifications and Control

Another advantage of being online is the capability to communicate with you. Most smart thermostats now have smartphone apps that let you control them. These devices are also able to send alerts and notifications. If your home is equipped with a water leak detector, for instance, your smart thermostat can alert if it senses water.

Geofencing

The ability of a thermostat to learn is a powerful tool that will save you money over the long term. But many modern smart thermostats are able to react to save you money in the short term as well. A prominent example of this is geofencing. Through the use of smartphone apps, a smart thermostat is able to know if the members of your household are at home or not. Your thermostat may have learned that you are out of the house by 8:00 a.m., but if it detects that you left today at 7:00 a.m., it can go ahead and adjust the cooling or air conditioning in order to reduce your costs.

Zoning

Zoned HVAC provides you with much greater control over the heating, air conditioning, and ventilation in your home, and it also provides your smart thermostat with much greater control as well. These systems work by having dampers in the ductwork that can open and close to allow air through our not, and this usually requires a variable-speed air handler that is able to adjust to the pressure differences. Having your smart thermostat control your zoned HVAC can lower energy usage considerably because, for example, the system can maintain a comfortable bedroom temperature without wasting energy heating or cooling the entire home.

Room Sensors

Smart thermostats that support room sensors are able to react to your household beyond geofencing, and there are many types of sensors available, including the aforementioned water leak sensor. There are also motion sensors, which can be particularly useful for basements, garages, and areas of the home that are seldom used. Temperature and humidity sensors allow for more granular control without the need for many thermostats, and it also gives you more freedom for thermostat placement because the device has much more information available to it.

Smart Integration

A smart home requires that its devices be able to communicate with each other. Most smart devices, therefore, are Wi-Fi capable, able to send and receive data, and, if applicable, react to the data they receive. A smart thermostat is an excellent example of this, and there is a wide range of smart devices that are designed to work with your smart thermostat. Smart shades, for instance, can provide your thermostat information about sunlight, and your thermostat can tell the shades to open in order to provide natural heat and lower your heating costs.

Energy-saving Mode

Many smart thermostats now have an energy-savings mode. One reason that this mode is useful is that it lets you shape temperature control based on energy usage as opposed to comfort. Some models are even able to track your local energy rates and make adjustments based on that data. An energy-saving mode is also very useful when you go on vacation or travel on business. The thermostat has safe thresholds that it will maintain but will otherwise seek to use as little electricity or fuel as it can.

Automatic Humidity Control

It is becoming increasingly common to install whole-home humidification and dehumidification systems. These systems tend to pay for themselves over time because they save wear and tear on your air conditioner or heat pump and allow for a higher comfortable temperature in summer and a lower comfortable temperature in winter. Provided a relative humidity range, a smart thermostat can adjust to outdoor humidity conditions in order to keep you comfortable and save you money.

Energy Reports

Another powerful tool that many smart thermostats offer is energy reports. Typically, accessing this feature is as simple as logging in to your smart thermostat via a web browser. This feature also automatically tracks your usage over the years and can even identify when an energy spike may be due to an equipment problem.

Air Quality Monitoring

Many smart thermostats can even track the number of particulates in the air in addition to various contaminants. This is important because indoor pollution is typically more concentrated than outdoor pollution, and on the money-saving front, it is a useful way to monitor your ventilation and identify when to have your ducts cleaned.

Automatic Software Updates

Smart thermostats are essentially small computers with their own operating system and apps. Some manufacturers even let you choose which apps your device will run, and the OS and apps receive updates over time. These updates can make a significant difference when it comes to energy savings, and automatic updates are a useful feature that keeps your device updated without you having to check for them.

Your Thermostat Experts in Southern California

Landry is a company with more than 80 years of experience. We offer a full range of heating and cooling installation, maintenance, and repair services, and we are happy to assist customers with choosing, installing, programming, and calibrating their smart thermostats.Call Landry today or contact us online to learn more about the services we offer and to schedule an appointment!

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Deciding Between a Window AC Unit and an HVAC System

Sunday, April 10th, 2022

Springtime is finally upon us, and when spring arrives, the hot summer weather is always close behind. If you want to keep your Sutton, MA household cool and comfortable over the next few months, you’ll likely be relying heavily on your air conditioner. So, if your home is currently without a cooling system, you can’t afford to put off the purchase much longer. Sometimes, though, deciding what kind of AC unit to invest in can be challenging. For one, every household has different needs and priorities. Even if your main goal is saving money, it isn’t always as simple as purchasing the cheapest system. To determine the financial repercussions of your purchase, you’ll have to consider several variables.

For most homeowners, the decision generally comes down to purchasing either an HVAC system or a window unit. The most common kind of HVAC system is a central air system, but heat pumps are also somewhat popular. As for window units, they come in various sizes, and they’re always placed in or around a window. Both HVAC systems and window AC units have their benefits, and you’ll need to evaluate which kind will serve your situation the most effectively.

Comparing the Immediate Costs

When you invest in a new air conditioner, the two main upfront costs you need to consider are the purchase price of the unit and the installation fee. In both of these categories, window units are much more affordable than the vast majority of HVAC systems. In terms of the purchase price, window units are rarely more expensive than $1,000, and you can usually buy a smaller one for only $100 or $200. With HVAC systems, the purchase price has quite a bit of variance. Usually, the smaller, lower-end units will be somewhere in the range of $2,000 to $3,000. Alternatively, if you opt for a large or high-efficiency system, that figure could be anywhere from $3,500 to $10,000.

Then, there’s installation. HVAC systems are pretty complex, and they have to be directly connected to your home’s ventilation setup. As a result, installing a central air system or heat pump is a task that should be left to the professionals because they’ll have the tools, experience, and knowledge to do it correctly and safely. However, that service will usually cost no less than a few hundred dollars. Window units are much simpler. Because they are essentially self-contained systems and don’t need to be connected to your ductwork, most homeowners can install them without professional help. Typically, the installation process takes an hour or two and saves you the expense of hiring a contractor.

Comparing the Operating Costs

When you’re looking at how much an air conditioner is going to cost you over the long term, energy usage is perhaps the most significant factor. During the toasty Massachusetts summers, you’ll want that cool air flowing frequently, so the energy efficiency of your appliance will have a major impact on your finances. This is another area in which window units are pretty attractive options.

On average, for every hour that you run a window AC unit, it will burn through between 500 and 1,400 watts. The exact amount of electricity depends on the efficiency of your specific unit, as well as how high you’ve got the cool air cranked up. This is in comparison to the average HVAC system, which will usually require around 3,500 watts per hour of usage. Obviously, if your household is running multiple window units at once, this output will change things. However, if you’re only utilizing just one unit, your monthly electricity costs for cooling will be much cheaper than they would be with an average HVAC system.

Comparing the Required Maintenance

When you own a central air HVAC system or heat pump, professional maintenance is a service that you really can’t neglect. If you don’t schedule a tune-up every year or so, the results you get from your cooling appliance will suffer greatly. Not only will the HVAC system be less effective and less efficient, but it will also have a shorter life expectancy and be more susceptible to mechanical failure. Even with an affordable service like AC maintenance, making it happen once or twice every year will add up to quite a bit of money over the unit’s lifespan. However, it’s worth it since you’d be spending much more money in the long run if you didn’t keep up with it.

Although you don’t need to call in professional technicians to maintain your window AC unit, you do still need to perform certain upkeep tasks. However, the primary difference is that with a window unit, the maintenance process is entirely free. All you generally need to do is regularly clean the air filter, wipe down the coils, wash the fans, and clean out the drain pan. If you stay on top of these tasks, your window AC unit should continue to perform well and operate efficiently.

Comparing Mechanical Repair Costs

When an HVAC system has a major equipment malfunction or a complete breakdown, it can be somewhat of a nightmare scenario for the homeowner. In some cases, a repair job may cost upwards of $1,000, and if you’ve invested several thousand in the system, you’ll naturally feel obligated to bite the bullet and pay for the fix. Usually, even the most expensive repair bill won’t be as expensive as replacing the HVAC system entirely, meaning that it’s always more affordable to invest in the repair job.

If you purchase a window AC unit, you’ll never feel obligated to pay for a massive equipment fix. Since window units are almost always under $1,000, it’s never prudent to spend more than that to repair a struggling or broken-down appliance. If you ever have to choose between spending $1,500 on a repair or purchasing a new $750 window unit, the decision will be an easy one. However, that type of decision doesn’t often come up with a window unit because they don’t usually cost more than a few hundred dollars to repair anyway.

What’s the Verdict?

Ultimately, if you’re deciding between investing in an HVAC system or one-window AC unit, you’ll save a significant amount of money by going with the latter. However, you can’t ignore the fact that window units are only meant to cool down one room or section of your household whereas HVAC systems can handle every area of the home at once. So, if you have a large family or multiple roommates, then having a window unit in one room probably won’t cut it when the Sutton summer arrives. And, if you have to purchase two or three additional units, the cost will be much closer to that of an HVAC system, and it may even be more expensive. However, if you live on your own or with one other person, and you don’t need to control the entire home’s climate at the same time, you may be content with having one window unit and saving some cash.

Since 2008, [company_name] has been a reliable provider of heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services in the greater Sutton area. We have a fully staffed office, a warehouse, and 15 skilled technicians, and we’re well-equipped to handle any of your needs that may arise. Our company is big enough to take care of any problem you have, but we’re small enough to always bring a personal touch to our services. If you’d like to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, call our offices now at [company_name]!

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How Do Ductless ACs Work?

Sunday, April 3rd, 2022

In modern days, people are investing in ductless air conditioners to experience cool weather and comfort in their houses. The mini-split cooling system is popular for the unique cooling effect it gives a room, especially on a hot day. The system also works well when you need warmth in the room on a cold day. The ductless air conditioners tend to be multi-functional. If you live in Sutton, MA, and the surrounding areas be sure to contact [company_name], talk to our skilled technicians and get the best advice on mini splits and their workability. Our skilled technicians will also advise you on the best type and size for either commercial or home use.

What Are the Functions of Ductless Air Conditioners?

Understanding how ductless air conditioners or mini-splits work is an important step for everyone looking to install them in their homes or offices. The mini-split cooling system tends to work like the traditional air conditioner, but different factors differentiate the two. Like its name, the ductless air conditioner does not have ducts. The ductless air conditioner cools the room by absorbing the moisture and heat from the air as it discards it to the outside. This is different from how conventional air conditioners work. They use ducts to take the heat in and out of the room through the vent system and then distribute the cool air into the room.

Components of a Ductless Air Conditioner

To better understand how the mini-split air conditioners work, it is best if you get a glimpse of the different components that make them. The ductless air conditioner has three parts:

A condenser- A condenser is placed outside. It is responsible for taking the hot air from the room and dumping it outside, bringing in a cooling effect to the room.
The blower unit – This is the part of the ductless air conditioner placed in a room. Its primary function is to pull in the hot air from the room, absorb the moisture and heat, send it to the outside of the room to the condenser, and bring in the cold air, which makes the room have that cooling feeling.
The conduit-The ductless air conditioner’s last component is the conduit that connects the condenser and the blower unit, making it complete. It is the part that provides the electrical power to the ductless air conditioner, which is essential for its functionality.

Does a Ductless Air Conditioner Have Enough Cooling Power?

Now that you understand that the ductless air conditioner has different components, you might be wondering if they have enough cooling power. You may also be used to conventional air conditioners that you feel the mini-split cooling system may be too weak to help cool the hot air in your home or place of business. It is then safe to say that the mini-split’s workability is dependent on the size of your room. For the best results, a big room requires a big cooling system or a big mini-split while a small room requires a small cooling system.

Getting a small mini-split for a big room might require the cooling system to overwork while getting a large mini-split for a small room will leave the system underutilized. Therefore, it is important to get the right size and the most appropriate ductless conditioner for your room for great cooling effects and longer lifespan to the cooling system.

The ductless air conditioners come in different sizes, making it easy for you to identify the necessary BTU capacity. All you need to have is the right measurement of the room you intend to install the mini-split system.

A mini-split with 12,000 BTU works best for 400 to 650 square feet of rooms.
Those with 18,000 BTU work best for rooms measuring 600 to 1000 square feet.
A mini-split with 24,000 BTU works best for rooms measuring 1000 to 1300 square feet.

If it is hard for you to determine the ductless AC you need, you should consult our technicians at [company_name]. The technicians will visit the room or rooms in question and according to their size, give advice on the most appropriate ductless AC size. With the right size, the ductless air conditioner tends to have enough cooling power, making it a great investment.

Benefits of a Ductless Air Conditioner

The use of the mini-split cooling system is continuously increasing, as many people find the equipment better than the traditional air conditioners. Using the mini-split cooling system tends to have many benefits. They include

The mini-split cooling system offers different functionality, including dehumidifying and purifying the air. It helps the user cut the costs of getting both air conditioners and air purifiers.
The mini-splits are affordable, especially if you are getting them for personal use in the house.
It is very easy to install a ductless air conditioner, and one does not need to have too much manpower to have them installed. You can have one technician come to your house and install it, unlike the big and complicated traditional AC that needs more manpower to install.
The mini-split does not require any ductwork. This means that adding the air conditioners in the different parts of the house is almost effortless.
The ductless air conditioners effectively save energy. They are believed to save energy by about 30% because they are ductless and do not experience duct leaks that lead to loss of energy.
The ductless air conditioner is multifunctional; it can either heat or cool the room. The multifunctional aspect of the mini-split makes it a critical piece of equipment in the household since the homeowner does not have to buy different systems for different functions.
The ductless air conditioner is flexible as it can be mounted anywhere, depending on the room’s configuration. You can mount the mini-split air conditioner on the floor, the wall, or the ceiling.

Investing in a Ductless Air Conditioner

Investing in a ductless air conditioner for your home or office is one of the best financial decisions you can make. The system not only saves you money on installation, but it also saves you money on utilities and its operations are quiet and smooth. Investing in a ductless air conditioner means that you will no longer be paying money for duct cleaning, duct inspections and even ductwork sealing. Eliminating the need for ductwork eradicates the possibility of having dust mites, bacteria, mold and viruses that normally find a haven in ductwork.

Call Us Today

If you need any advice regarding the different types of mini-split cooling systems or you want to purchase high-quality ductless air conditioners, in Sutton, MA, do not hesitate to call us. We have a team skilled and well trained in repairing and maintaining the cooling, heating and plumbing systems. We ensure to offer you professional services, great products, free price estimates as well as the most competitive prices in the region. For more information, prompt services and quality products, call us today.

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9 Elements of Assessing Your New Home’s Heating and Cooling System

Thursday, March 10th, 2022

Unless you’re an HVAC professional, chances are that you don’t know how to evaluate your new home’s heating and cooling system. This can put a damper on the excitement of moving into your new residence because you worry about the comfort system giving out suddenly. Consider these nine elements to evaluate your HVAC system’s condition and whether you will need to have it replaced.

1. Assess the System’s Life Expectancy

Start by comparing your system’s age to the expected service life of the constituent components when properly maintained. Forced air gas furnaces should last 15 to 20 years with central air conditioners serving about 10 to 15 years. If your system’s age is nearing these limits, you may want to start planning for a replacement.

The challenge is uncovering when your system was manufactured. For your furnace, you’ll want to look for the serial number, which will give you the date. You’ll either find this on the label attached to the back of the access panel or stamped on the circulating fan motor or blade. If you have to look at the motor, be sure to kill the power at the circuit breaker to prevent a possible injury.

Once you have the serial number, take the first four digits to learn when it was manufactured. The first two digits correlate to a week in the year, and the second two are the year that it was produced.

For your air conditioner, simply find the stamped nameplate attached to the housing on the outside condensing unit. The plate should have the date of manufacture included on it.

2. Evaluate Maintenance History

The service life is in part determined by how well the system has been maintained. You may not receive extensive maintenance records from the previous owner, but you can get a sense of how much attention the equipment received.

Start by turning the system off and removing the access panel. Look at how much dust and dirt has collected on the circulating fan. You can also pull out the furnace filter and check to see if it’s clogged. The more dirt collected on these areas, the less air will flow through the equipment, and the more strain it has experienced. This is a key indicator of system neglect and likely a shorter life expectancy.

3. Get a Professional Tune-up

An easy way to get an assessment of your system’s condition is to have a professional tune-up performed. Based on its internal condition, a trained technician will be able to easily tell if the system has been neglected. Further, they will test the system’s cycling to see if there is anything working less than optimally. Finally, the tune-up will give you an initial boost to your heating or cooling efficiency by ensuring that there isn’t unusual strain.

4. Consider Your Thermostat’s Condition

Given that it regulates when the equipment turns on and off, your thermostat is a critical part of your heating and cooling system. However, the thermostat could stop working as well as it ages because the temperature sensors become less sensitive. This is true whether you have an old mercury thermostat or the newer digital models.

In addition to becoming less sensitive, older models also have fewer functional options, particularly in programming capabilities. If your thermostat still uses a mercury switch or it doesn’t have a program function, it’s likely a signal that you have an older system. Most companies include a new thermostat when they install either a new air conditioner or furnace.

5. Assess Physical Condition

Next, look at the physical condition of your system, paying particular attention to signs of corrosion. Without digging too deep into the internal workings, you’d look for rust on the furnace or AC housing. Also, look for excessive moisture around your furnace even if you’re running the air conditioning. Finally, look to see if there’s discolored water or bits of metal on the drip pan under your furnace.

In your outdoor air conditioner unit, check for signs that it has been impacted by flying debris, including dents and cracks in the housing. If you can see the fins on your condensing coil, look to see if they’re bent flat, restricting the airflow through the coil.

6. Reevaluate Your Capacity Needs

Regardless of the age of your system, it’s important to make sure that its heating and cooling capacity matches the serviceable area. If it’s too small, your system will have long cycles, using extra energy and adding strain to the equipment. It’s common for the system size to become mismatched when renovations are completed that change the heating and cooling area, such as finishing a basement or attic or putting on a room addition.

For a quick review, you’ll need to calculate your heating and air conditioning separately. For your heating, multiply your square feet by 50, which will give you the minimum recommended BTU capacity. Multiply the square feet by 30 for your air conditioner. You can then compare this to the capacity of your current system.

7. Test Temperature Rise or Fall

If you have a probe thermometer, you can check the temperature of the air coming out of the vent. There isn’t a set temperature for the air, but it should rise for heat or fall for air conditioning. If your furnace is running properly, the air from your vents should have a rise of 45 to 70 degrees compared to the return air temperature. When your air conditioning is running, the fall should be about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If either of these differences is less than they should be, your system needs some attention.

8. Listen for Strange Sounds

Your system should run nearly silently when it’s operating correctly. If it makes screeching, scraping, banging, hissing, gurgling, or buzzing sounds, there is a problem. These can range from minor issues like your ductwork flexing to major issues like a cracked heat exchanger. Whatever the problem, the longer you allow it to go unattended, the more likely it is that you’ll need substantial repairs or a system replacement.

9. Check Temperatures Throughout Your Home

When your system ages, it will stop pushing as much air through your home. This may be due in part to dust and dirt collecting throughout the system. It may also be due to parts like the circulating fan running less efficiently than intended.

Start this check by inspecting each of your vents to make sure they’re open and that each has at least a 2-inch clearance above and around it. Next, set up thermometers throughout the house, preferably one in each room. Lacking that, at least put one in the room nearest the air handler and at the farthest points away from the handler. The temperature should be within a degree or two. If it’s more than a few degrees different, you’ll need some work on your system.

Residents of Sutton, MA and the surrounding areas have turned to [company_name] since 2008 for their home comfort needs. Our expert team provides heating and air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation combined with residential plumbing and electrical services. Call to schedule a tune-up appointment for your new home’s HVAC system today.

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