Ring in the New Year With a New Heater Installation

As the new year rolls in, it usually brings the coldest, harshest weather of the winter season. That means homeowners will crank up their heaters and furnaces to keep their homes warm and cozy. With all that usage, older heaters often struggle to keep up. As a result, HVAC companies are slammed with calls for heater repair and replacement at this time of year.

Of course, January is also the time of year when many homeowners start thinking about the home improvements they want to tackle with their fresh yearly budget. If the heater is acting up, that might be a good place to start! This article will explain how to tell if a heater needs replacing, provide guidelines for selecting a new heating system, and explain why maintenance is important for old and new heaters.

Signs a Heater Needs to Be Replaced

First, it’s helpful to know when a heater might need replacing. There are several signs to watch for:

• The heater is more than 15-20 years old. This is the average lifespan of a typical heater. Some can last longer with diligent maintenance, but if the unit is in this age range and performs poorly or needs major repairs, it probably makes more economic sense to replace it.
• The heater frequently needs repairs. Similar to the previous point, it may be worth investing in a new heater installation rather than constantly shelling out for repairs.
• The heater makes unusual noises. Screeching, rattling, banging, booming, excessive vibration, or metallic grinding sounds can all indicate serious problems with the heater that may warrant a heater replacement.
• Unusually high energy bills. A failing heater often drives up utility bills as it loses energy efficiency. In addition, newer heaters tend to be much more efficient than older ones, so a proactive heater upgrade can help save money in the long run.
• Uneven heating/the house doesn’t get warm enough. If some rooms get hot while others stay cool, or if the heater runs constantly but fails to bring the house to the desired temperature, there’s undoubtedly something wrong with the unit.
• The unit is rusted, cracked, or corroded. A damaged or age-worn heater can be dangerous, particularly if it uses gas for fuel – a gas or CO leak is a risk not worth taking.

Some of these issues may be resolved with repairs or servicing, but some may be more serious. If homeowners notice these symptoms, they should immediately call a professional to diagnose the issue and help them determine whether heating replacement is the right choice.

Choosing the Right Heating System

Once homeowners have decided to replace their heater, they’ll have to choose what kind of heating system to install. There are many, each with its advantages and drawbacks.

• Gas or electric furnaces – These are most effective in very cold climates but can use a fair amount of energy. Electric models tend to be less energy-efficient than gas models.
• Heat pumps – These are very energy efficient but less effective in extreme cold. However, they can handle heating and cooling, so homeowners don’t have to install a separate air conditioning system.
• Geothermal heat pumps – These are even more energy efficient, as they draw their heating power from the earth’s natural underground warmth. However, they do have a higher up-front cost than other systems.
• Boilers/radiant heating systems – These deliver heat through a network of water pipes or wires installed in the floors and/or walls of a home (or to radiators installed in each room). They can be very efficient and quiet, but they can have a higher installation cost if the home doesn’t already have the infrastructure.

Which type of heating system is right for the home isn’t a cookie-cutter decision – it depends on the size of the home, what kind of system it already has, the homeowner’s budget, and personal preferences. It’s always best to consult with an HVAC expert to determine what will work best for the household’s specific needs.

The Importance of Maintaining the New Heater

After their new heating installation is complete, homeowners will want to protect their investment by maintaining and servicing the unit regularly. Routine heating maintenance helps save money by boosting efficiency and preventing costly repairs, extends the unit’s life by reducing wear & tear, and keeps the home warm by ensuring peak heating performance.

Without routine maintenance, any heating system will likely break down or perform poorly. Its energy efficiency will suffer, and more strain will be placed on internal components. As a result, homeowners may find themselves without heat on a cold night when their heater stops working. In fact, routine heater maintenance is so important that it’s a prerequisite on most manufacturer warranties.

So, instead of waiting for that old heater to kick the bucket, homeowners can take matters into their own hands and install a new heater today!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

The experts at Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC have served Santa Fe, NM, for 15 years. In that time, they’ve become one of the most trusted and highly rated local businesses in New Mexico. They offer competitive up-front pricing, financing, free installation estimates, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee – so don’t hesitate to call Daniels for heater replacement in Santa Fe, NM!

Keep the Home Warm and Comfortable With Essential Boiler Services

Various factors make boilers more favorable than furnaces and vice versa. Boilers use water and radiant heat to control the temperature inside a home during cold weather. Homeowners considering boiler installation should be aware of the benefits of boilers and the requirements such a system carries. In this article, homeowners will learn about boiler essentials, common problems, and how to keep their boilers running efficiently, even during heavy use in the cold winter months. 

Boiler Essentials

Boiler systems offer an excellent way to heat the home during the cold winter. Since these systems use radiant heat from radiators, baseboard heaters, or even floor heating systems, blowing air throughout the home is unnecessary. In fact, this is one of the benefits of a boiler system. The air often feels more comfortable in homes with boilers because there’s no dry air. 

Boilers also tend to be more efficient than forced air heating systems. Plus, since there’s no forced air, homes using boilers generally have better indoor air quality — at least when the boiler is in use. However, boilers come with different requirements than furnaces. So, homeowners need to be aware of common boiler problems. 

How to Spot Common Boiler Problems

One of the most common boiler problems is poor heating. This usually comes in the form of inconsistent temperatures in the different rooms of the home. For example, the kitchen may be nice and warm, whereas the living room is chilly. It’s important that homeowners not ignore little things like this because they could signal a larger problem with the boiler. 

It’s also good for homeowners to use their other senses to identify possible boiler issues. For example, they can head off major issues by paying attention to the smell and sounds emanating from the boiler. Strange burning smells could indicate a problem with the heating system, and strange sounds from the boiler should never be ignored. Finally, paying attention to the heating bills can tell homeowners how their boiler works. High energy bills often indicate a problem with the heating system. 

How to Keep the Boiler Running Efficiently

Like other heating systems, boilers operate best when they are regularly maintained by a professional heating and cooling company. This is especially important before the boiler gets a lot of use, which is why experts recommend boiler maintenance in the fall. 

Boiler maintenance involves a lot, but some of the most important tasks include inspecting the heat exchanger, safety and shutoff valves, supply lines, and other components; flushing the system; checking water pressure; and ensuring that the burner flame is the correct color and height. Once the professional has completed the maintenance and boiler repairs, homeowners can rest easy knowing their boiler heating system is ready to operate efficiently in winter. 

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC

The friendly professionals at Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC have been proudly serving Santa Fe, NM, since 2010. For fourteen years, they have provided quality work promptly to their friends and neighbors. They offer 24/7 emergency service and provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for boiler maintenance in Santa Fe, NM.

Keep the Home Warm During the Fall With a New Heater Installation

Cooler temperatures are coming, and people will fire up the heater for the first time this season. The task will be difficult for some people because their heater has failed to heat the home or is so outdated and inefficient that it wastes tons of money on bills. Heater replacement will be the only option, but making that decision can be daunting without the right information. 

In this article, HVAC experts discuss three major signs that heating replacement is the best option for keeping the home warm during the fall and winter. 

Old Age and High Repair Costs

The best indicator that a heating system needs to be replaced is its age. Manufacturers do their best to make long-lasting products that provide years of dedicated service, but most heaters last and perform optimally for 15 to 20 years. Beyond this point, chronic wear and tear takes a toll, and the best option is to upgrade to a new unit. 

To determine a heater’s age, check its manufacturer’s plate, compare the serial number to the one decoded on the maker’s website, or call its headquarters to find its exact age.

The wear and tear that takes a toll on the heater will cause certain components to go out. If the heater is between 15 and 20 years old, there is a good chance that it will require frequent, costly repairs. The frequency and cost of repairs are other good indicators that heater replacement is needed when coupled with old age. If the repairs over the last few years add up to 25% to 50% of the replacement cost, the best long-term option is to schedule a new heater installation. 

High Energy Bills 

Another cost that homeowners are acutely aware of that can indicate the need for heater replacement is the recurring monthly energy bills associated with heating the home. As a heater age, it loses a significant percentage of energy efficiency every year. After 10 to 15 years in service, bills will be significantly higher. 

Homeowners should install new, energy-efficient heaters to lower their monthly bills. This can drastically reduce bills and allow homeowners to install better equipment. Over the lifespan of the energy-efficient heater, homeowners will save enough money to offset the cost of heater replacement and more. 

The Home Is Uncomfortable

The wear and tear that takes a toll on the heater can cause poor performance and may indicate that heater replacement is needed. For example, the home may stay too cool during the winter, or hot and cold spots may develop due to poor air circulation. In other cases, humidity may drop low enough to cause discomfort. If the home is uncomfortable during the fall or winter, a new heater may be all that is needed to make the home cozy again. 

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC offers highly recommended solutions for plumbing and HVAC problems. Their teams can help homeowners select the right heater for their home this winter and protect it with seasonal maintenance and heater repairs. Call today for heater replacement in Santa Fe, NM. 

What Is a Dehumidifier Anyway?

A dehumidifier has long been an appliance that should be an optional addition to a home. It can be lived comfortably without, but this is only because the benefits of having one aren’t as widely known. Before breaking down the benefits of installing a dehumidifier, it’s important to start with the question: What is humidity?

Simply put, humidity is when a high volume of water vapor is in the air. It is felt more intensely during the summer because warmer air can hold a significantly greater amount of water vapor than cold air. This water vapor is dense and hangs in the air, leading to the thick, sticky feeling that comes with the dreaded high humidity of the summer. This article explains how a whole-house dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air in the home, providing comfort and financial savings. 

Debunking the Myth of a Dehumidifier

Contrary to common belief, a dehumidifier is not just an accessory but an essential for maximum summertime comfort in the home. It might be nearly impossible to escape the widespread damp air outside, but that doesn’t mean it must also be inescapable in the home. A whole-house dehumidifier removes the excess moisture from the air and filters it into the ground or a tank and out of the home, thus freeing the indoor space from the thick, heavy, sticky outside air. 

Free the Home From Swamp-Like Conditions From High Humidity

Humidity in the home has a very particular look and smell: condensation, mold, and must. These are telltale signs that a home needs the help of a dehumidifier. While condensation on the windows is primarily an eye sore, the smell of must and the look of mold caused by high humidity levels have real negative health effects that should be addressed immediately. 

An HVAC unit can remove some of these pathogens, but the best way to address mold and must is to remove the source (humidity) in its entirety. A whole-home dehumidifier will eliminate water sitting in the air, reducing the possibility of the water sitting on the walls and forming harmful mold and bacteria. 

Throw Your AC Unit a Bone With the Help of a Dehumidifier

As mentioned, the home’s AC unit can remove some humidity from the air. But this means that while the AC unit is on, it’s exerting more energy to remove the thick water in the air to get cold air throughout the home. This scenario is where it can be beneficial to add a dehumidifier. The AC unit can work full-time to keep the air cool in the home while the dehumidifier removes the thick wall of high humidity, thus creating a clear path for the cool air to get through. Combining an AC unit with a whole home dehumidifier can improve comfort in living spaces and energy savings.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning LLC is proud to serve the Sante Fe, NM, area by providing the exact service you need without upselling or unnecessary add-ons. They hold authenticity and reliability close to their hearts and don’t consider a job finished until you are completely satisfied. Call Daniels today to schedule regular maintenance on your HVAC unit for the summer!

Minimizing Energy Bills During the Spring and Summer

Beginning in March, many homeowners’ utility bills rise due to changing weather. While the constant switch from heating to air conditioning may be necessary to sleep comfortably, it will add to the overall cost. Rather than jeopardizing indoor comfort, there are a few easy ways to reduce the bills without shutting off the HVAC unit.

Reversing the Ceiling Fan Blades

Ceiling fans can be used in the winter and summer. Depending on the direction of the fan blades, heat will either rise or settle. Homeowners do not need to switch each blade individually to reverse most ceiling fans.

On average, ceiling fans can raise the temperature by four degrees in winter. In the summer, they reduce humidity. Although ceiling fans do not provide enough of a breeze to forgo the air conditioner, they can help save money in the long run.

Using a fan while the air conditioner runs will reduce the energy needed to reach a comfortable temperature. When the AC no longer has to work as hard, this saves money on monthly energy bills.

In the summer, ceiling fan blades should be turned counterclockwise. This creates a downdraft that can cool any room directly. In the winter, the fan blades need to be facing clockwise so that the updraft will circulate heated air. A small switch is located on the base of the fan so that homeowners can automatically turn each blade at once.

Air Filter Replacement

Depending on the household, a furnace filter should be changed once every three months. If pets are kept indoors, this frequency changes. Just one dog will require a monthly filter exchange to prevent dander from circulating throughout the house.

Checking the AC filters regularly will allow homeowners to see how often they need to change them. Three months may work fine during winter, but spring is known to wreak havoc on HVAC systems. With extra pollen and other allergens, a clogged air filter can prevent the air conditioner from properly working during spring and summertime.

Central AC must work harder to push air past the particles trapped in a filter screen. Even if the home is at optimal temperature, the AC bills may increase due to the energy needed to keep cool air circulating. To change the air filter, simply write down the measurements on the screen’s side and order the correct fit online or in a hardware store. Professional technicians are not required to change air filters.

Smart Thermostats Work

Smart thermostats, also known as wifi thermostats, are handy gadgets for saving money all year round. Several kinds are available, and each is designed for energy efficiency.

A smart thermostat tracks energy use by monitoring heating and cooling patterns. By automatically programming the thermostat to stop or start at specific times, households save money when nobody is home. Remote control air conditioning is available for Android and iPhones, but certain smart thermostats can rely on desktop technology. Older wifi thermostats are still available for those who don’t like using their phone to manage energy usage.

Depending on the brand of thermostat, savings data can be shown at the end of the year. On average, homeowners save 10 to 25% on their energy bills.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC was founded in 2010. They specialize in smart thermostat installation as well as heating and cooling repairs. Their HVAC experts take the time to understand their customers’ needs, offer various options and advice, and never start work without providing a detailed estimate. Call today for more information on their Sante Fe, NM financing options.

Kick Off the New Year With a New Heater Installation!

With the start of a new year comes a fresh budget for all those home improvement projects and upgrades homeowners have been itching to tackle. And in the heart of winter, there’s no better place to start than the heating system. After all, New Mexico winters can be quite harsh, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing, so having a reliable heater is essential for comfort and safety.

Of course, buying a new heating system isn’t exactly a minor project – for many homeowners, it can be intimidating. So, to help make things easier, this article will explain when a heater replacement might be needed, how to pick the right heating system to install, and why regular maintenance is vital for new heaters!

Common Signs the Heater Needs To Be Replaced

Naturally, the first thing homeowners should do is determine whether their heater needs to be replaced or simply repaired. Some issues only require minor repairs, while others, such as a cracked heat exchanger or a failed blower motor, can be expensive. Generally, if the repair cost exceeds 30% of the installation cost, it’s probably best to go with a heating replacement.

Likewise, if the system is over 15 years old and has issues, a replacement may be the best bet. As a heating system ages, it will start to have more and more problems as wear & tear take their toll. They’re also less energy efficient than today’s models. So, homeowners may be better off investing in a new heater instead of shelling out for repairs and paying more than necessary for energy bills.

So if homeowners are having heating issues, such as a lack of warm air, a house that doesn’t get warm enough, strange noises coming from the unit (banging, rattling, squealing, grinding), or a heater that frequently stops working, they would do well to have a professional diagnose the issue to determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.

Pick the Best Heater for the Home

When homeowners decide they want to replace their heater, they have a few options to choose from. The two most common home heating systems are furnaces and heat pumps.

Furnaces use gas, oil, or electricity to generate and distribute heat throughout the home. They are great options for climates that see extremely cold temperatures but aren’t always as energy-efficient as heat pumps. Heat pumps derive heat energy from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors. They can struggle in extremely cold weather but are very energy efficient and double as summer air conditioners.

Two less common heating systems that are gaining popularity are geothermal heat pumps and radiant heating systems. Geothermal heat pumps absorb heat from underneath the ground, where the temperature is more consistent, making them more effective in colder areas. They often have a higher initial cost but can save so much on heating and cooling costs that it’s a worthwhile investment. Radiant heating systems use a boiler or water heater to heat pipes built into the home’s floors. They can also come with a high installation cost but are highly efficient and can dramatically enhance home comfort.

Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Heater Maintenance!

Ultimately, what kind of heating system homeowners choose will depend on their budget, preferences, and the specific needs of their home. But no matter the type, they should maintain it properly to protect their investment. Without proper maintenance, the heater’s performance and efficiency will suffer, it will be more likely to break down, and its lifespan will be shortened.

So by scheduling routine heating maintenance with a professional at least once a year (preferably in the fall, before the cold weather hits), homeowners can save money on repairs, reduce their energy bills, increase the lifespan of their new heater, and keep their home warm and cozy all winter!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Since it was founded in 2010, Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC has quickly become one of the most trusted and highly-rated HVAC companies in Santa Fe. Their trustworthy licensed technicians always arrive on time in fully stocked trucks and leave every home better than they found, guaranteed. They offer up-front pricing, personalized solutions to fit virtually any budget, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so there’s no one better to call for heater installation in Santa Fe, NM!

Three Easy Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

As a homeowner, ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment is paramount. It means the difference between breathing easily and not breathing at all. However, many homeowners don’t know where to start when it comes to promoting good indoor air quality. Some don’t even know that the air they breathe could improve.

Here, homeowners can gain insight into how to improve their home’s breathability. These considerations take mere minutes to complete, yet can yield results that last months. Ways to improve good indoor air quality include:

Replacing the AC Unit’s Air Filters

EnergyStar is one of the nation’s leading authorities on indoor air quality and energy efficiency. It notes that homeowners could change their AC unit’s air filter once every three months. But what’s an air filter?

These devices filter out airborne contaminants like dust, dander, and other debris. In the long run, they make a home’s air more breathable and prevent the HVAC system from overheating.

While changing the air filter trimonthly is a good plan, one may consider changing it more often if:

• The AC unit smells like it’s burning
• Residents suffer respiratory problems, like coughing, sneezing, and wheezing
• The AC system short-cycles, meaning it turns on and off quickly
• The home has many furry four-legged friends that shed

Wiping Down the AC System’s Evaporator Coils

The AC system’s evaporator coil absorbs heat from outside and works with the condenser coil to generate cool air. Because evaporator coils are generally located outside of the home, they can get dirty, and they don’t work efficiently when that happens. A coil can be dirtied with dirt, mud, and leaves.

The good news is that cleaning the AC unit’s evaporator coil is easy. It involves:

• Turning off the AC system (nobody wants to risk getting burned or electrocuted)
• Dampening a paper towel or cloth
• Wiping down the coils, being sure to remove all debris
• Turning the AC unit back on

Within a few hours of cleaning the evaporator coil, homeowners will see a noticeable difference in their home’s air quality. They’ll also notice less mold and mildew growth, which can affect a home’s habitability.

Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Testing Appointment

Homeowners should schedule indoor air quality testing at least once a year. A skilled professional can conduct a series of tasks to measure humidity, check for mold spores, and evaluate the HVAC system.

An indoor air quality service professional will do this by:

• Conducting a visual inspection. An experienced HVAC specialist can measure indoor air quality by checking for mold growth, soggy drywall, and other concerns.
• Checking the home for carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can seriously affect indoor air quality, creating foul odors and even putting homeowners at risk of serious conditions.
• Inspecting the air filter. What may look like a clean air filter to a homeowner may look like a dirty air filter to a trained professional. Simply getting a new one could work wonders in improving air quality.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC puts homeowners’ comfort and safety first. These professionals take a holistic approach when improving indoor air quality and improving AC units’ functionality. Call today to learn more about working with these professionals in Santa Fe, NX.

How To Tell When To Replace the Thermostat

When HVAC problems arise, it’s easy and reasonable to conclude that something is wrong with the AC unit or furnace. But in many cases, the problem lies with the thermostat. Since it is essentially the control center of the entire system, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause all kinds of issues that affect the performance and efficiency of the HVAC system.

Of course, it’s not always easy to tell what might be a thermostat issue and what might be something more serious with the unit itself. So, to help homeowners troubleshoot their HVAC woes, here are three common signs that the thermostat might be failing!

Unusually High Energy Bills

One common symptom of a broken thermostat is if the energy bills are higher than normal. The HVAC system is the single biggest consumer of energy in a typical home, which makes it the most obvious culprit when there are large, unexpected spikes in energy usage. Such spikes usually result from a loss in efficiency, which a thermostat on the fritz can cause.

Suppose the thermostat isn’t reading the temperature correctly, communicating with the AC or furnace properly, or simply glitching out. In that case, it can cause the system to work harder than it should, driving up energy usage. Of course, a high energy bill may also be caused by various other issues with the HVAC system, so it’s best to have a professional inspect and test the whole system to determine whether or not the thermostat is to blame for the spike.

Inaccurate Temperature Reading

If homeowners notice HVAC issues or higher energy bills, the issue may be as simple as an incorrect temperature reading on the thermostat. Fortunately, homeowners can test this independently with tape, a paper towel/napkin, and a simple glass tube thermometer (or other small mercury thermometer). The test is as simple as this:

• Tape the thermometer to the wall a few feet from the thermostat with a folded piece of paper towel or napkin separating the thermometer from the wall (to prevent the thermometer from picking up the wall’s heat).
• Ensure the thermometer is roughly the same height as the thermostat and isn’t in the sun or near an air vent.
• Wait 15-20 minutes.
• Compare the temperatures on the thermostat and thermometer. The thermostat isn’t accurate if there’s more than a 3-degree (Fahrenheit) difference.

If the thermostat is found to be inaccurate, homeowners can try cleaning the sensors and internal components with canned air (this may require removing the thermometer face) or replacing the batteries, if applicable. If that doesn’t work, it’s time for a thermostat replacement.

The AC Is Short Cycling

Another way homeowners can tell if their thermostat might be failing is if the HVAC unit is short-cycling. This is when the system frequently turns on and off at short intervals rather than cooling or heating for full cycles (a normal cycle lasting around 10 minutes or so to maintain a set temperature, weather-depending).

One of the most common broken thermostat symptoms, short cycling prevents the home from reaching the desired temperature and puts undue stress on the AC or furnace, which can lead to much more serious issues – even a premature replacement – so it’s best to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Replacing a faulty thermostat is also a good opportunity to upgrade to a smart thermostat. Today’s smart thermostats come with various features designed to improve energy efficiency, enhance home comfort, and alert homeowners of potential issues with the HVAC system. So homeowners would do well to ask their trusted HVAC contractor about the possibility of installing a smart thermostat!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC has been one of the most trusted and highly-rated home service companies in Santa Fe. Their trustworthy, licensed experts always arrive on time in fully stocked trucks and do the job right the first time. They offer up-front competitive pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job, so don’t hesitate to call them for thermostat replacement in Santa Fe, NM!

3 Signs It May Be Time for AC Repair or Replacement

Summer is in full swing, meaning most homeowners run their air conditioners daily to fight off the heat. So naturally, with the near-constant usage, this is the time of year when AC breakdowns and malfunctions are most likely to occur. And if the air conditioner goes out in the middle of a hot afternoon, homeowners could be left sweating while waiting for an AC repair technician to arrive.

Fortunately, air conditioners rarely break down without warning – even if the signs aren’t always obvious. So to help homeowners catch AC problems before they can culminate in a broken-down unit, here are a few signs that an air conditioner might need repairs (or replacement)!

The House Doesn’t Get Cool Enough

One of the most obvious signs of a broken AC is if the unit runs, but the home never gets cool enough. If this is the case, the air vents may be blowing warm, very little, or even no air. There are several possible explanations for this. If homeowners are lucky, it may mean they should change their air filter, as a dirty filter can dramatically impede airflow.

But often, the problem may be dirty evaporator/condenser coils (which prevents the AC from removing indoor heat and releasing it outdoors), dirty or leaky air ducts, a refrigerant leak, a problem with the air blower motor, or a faulty compressor. Depending on the issue’s severity and the unit’s age, air conditioning replacement may be the more economical option.

Unusually High Energy Bills

Another sign of trouble that’s not quite as easy to spot is if the energy bills are higher than normal. The HVAC system typically accounts for most of a home’s energy usage, so the AC unit is the first place to look when the bills spike unexpectedly. An air conditioner can suffer a loss in efficiency for several reasons.

A lack of maintenance is one of the most common causes of poor efficiency, as components get dirty, lubrication dries out, and parts wear down. Leaks or obstructions in the ductwork are other common culprits. Faulty or malfunctioning components may need to be repaired or replaced. AC units also tend to lose efficiency with age due to normal wear and tear, so if it’s an older system, this may be the problem. This can be tricky to diagnose, so homeowners with high energy bills would do well to schedule an inspection with their trusted HVAC company.

Strange Sounds or Odors Coming from the Vents

One more common indicator of a major HVAC issue is if unusual noises or strange odors are coming from the vents (or the unit itself). These can point to a broken air conditioner or a serious issue with the home’s air ducts.

Clanging or banging sounds could indicate a loose or damaged component – if it’s coming from the indoor air handler unit, the blower fan is likely damaged. Still, suppose it’s coming from the outdoor condenser unit. A piston or other component inside the compressor may necessitate AC replacement (since compressors typically can’t be repaired). Squealing or screeching noises may indicate a dangerous pressure issue or simply a belt or bearing needing lubrication. Whistling or hissing may indicate a refrigerant leak or an air duct leak.

In terms of smells, homeowners should be alarmed if they notice musty smells, mildew odors, burning smells, or smoke from the vents. Musty or mildew odors may indicate that the air ducts or the air handler unit have been contaminated with mold growth, vermin, or bacteria. Burning smells or smoke indicates that there may be an electrical fault or excessive friction inside the unit. In the latter case, homeowners should immediately turn the system off and call a professional for AC repair, as this can pose a serious fire hazard.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Since opening its doors in 2010, Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC has become one of Santa Fe’s most trusted and highly-rated HVAC contractors. Their trustworthy, licensed technicians always arrive on time and work efficiently to get homeowners back to their routines as quickly and painlessly as possible. They offer up-front pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so don’t hesitate to call them for air conditioning repair in Santa Fe, NM!

3 Reasons Homeowners Should Not Wait Until It’s Hot To Schedule an AC Tune-up!

Being complacent about air conditioning system maintenance during the winter and early spring is easy. The average homeowner’s mind is more geared to the heating in winter and perhaps just enjoying the warmer weather when spring rolls around. Before long, though, the summer will set in, and a unit may not be in as good a shape as the household originally anticipated. They may need more time to get immediate service if they try to call for maintenance or an air conditioner repair. Starting the mid to late spring with a maintenance call will give a homeowner peace of mind and cooler temperatures throughout the summer.

Reason #1: More Availability

People are less likely to use their air conditioners in spring, so they tend not to think about it. Maintenance is usually an annual or bi-annual thing, so it is often a slower time for HVAC companies, and they may be able to schedule a maintenance visit very quickly. This will also avoid emergency calls in the heat of summer. If a person has maintenance done, the chance of a critical failure of the AC system is greatly reduced. Some of the maintenance tasks that an HVAC technician will perform include:

• Air filter replacement
• Cleaning and repairing air ducts
• Cleaning coils
• Cleaning blower
• Checking electrical connections
• Checking thermostat
• Checking vents
• Straightening fins

This is a partial list, but it gives a general idea of what a professional would do. They can also replace worn-out parts and repair coolant leaks that may cause the system to freeze amid a heat wave.

Reason #2: Greater Energy Efficiency Throughout the Summer

One of the biggest pluses of having regular maintenance is the energy savings over the life of the AC unit. Like any other machine, an air conditioner wears out over time. This involves not only the wearing down of parts in the machine but also a reduction in efficiency. With proper maintenance, an AC unit can function at the highest possible efficiency year after year. This results in the following benefits.

• Lower Energy Bills: A more efficient unit will use less energy and cost less to run.
  Consistent Temperatures: It will be easier for the unit to maintain optimal temperatures with clean ducts and coils.
• Saves Money: A maintenance visit is much quicker and cheaper than an emergency visit in the middle of summer.
• Peace of Mind: A homeowner will not have anxiety over the state of their AC. They can simply enjoy the temperature-controlled home.

Reason #3: Longer Life for AC Unit

When a person takes care of their car, gets new tires, keeps gas in the tank, and changes the oil, the car will last a long time. The same is true of a well-maintained AC unit. If regular professional maintenance is done on a home’s air conditioning unit, it will last longer. This is another money saver because it costs less for maintenance than it does to purchase a new unit.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC was founded in 2010 and offers expert workmanship in all areas of home comfort. They provide 24/7 emergency service in Santa Fe, NM, and the surrounding communities. Call today for AC maintenance.