Spring Checklist To Get Your HVAC System Ready For Summer

Spring is a time for cleaning things up, airing out the home, and getting ready for the upcoming season. One essential part of this process is making sure that your HVAC system can meet the demands that lie ahead. Not only is this essential for keeping you and everyone else in the home comfortable, but it is also a vital part of ensuring a healthy level of indoor air quality. Many homeowners make the unfortunate mistake of waiting until they absolutely need their heating and cooling equipment before turning it on. To avoid the frustration and discomfort of last-minute HVAC repairs, however, you can get an early start with these easy spring HVAC tips.

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Essential Maintenance Tips For HVAC Systems In The Spring

This article shares an HVAC checklist that homeowners can use to prepare their system for the upcoming weather.

Schedule Your HVAC System Maintenance

A licensed professional should inspect your home HVAC system should be inspected by at least once every year. Although there are many forms of HVAC maintenance that you can perform on your own, professional inspections are designed to address components and areas that the average individual should not access. This should be left for a licensed HVAC professional only.

During a professional maintenance check-up, a thorough system cleaning can be performed, developing issues can be identified and mitigated, and the approximate remaining lifespan of the system can be determined. When a heating and cooling system is outdated, the professional can recommend an HVAC replacement. By having an old and outdated HVAC system replaced, you can lower your carbon footprint, reduce your home heating and cooling costs, streamline your home’s climate control features to meet your unique needs, and avoid a slew of costly, age-related repair issues.

If your heating and cooling system is under warranty, an annual HVAC inspection can sometimes be necessary for remaining in compliance with the related warranty terms. In fact, your warranty may require both timely cooling inspections and timely furnace repair services, among other things. To maintain this agreement, be sure to read and understand the included terms carefully.

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Remover Any Condenser Covers And Clean Around The Unit

Be sure to take the condenser cover off and do a deep cleaning around the unit. Carefully inspect the condenser to verify that this critical outside component has not sustained weather-related damages. Check the outside of the condenser unit for trapped debris and other potential blockages. If shrubbery or other greenery has grown too close to the condenser, go ahead and cut this back. All of these measures play important roles in ensuring optimum overall performance.

 

Change The HVAC Air Filter

Some of the easiest and most critical parts of maintaining home HVAC systems do not require licensed HVAC contractors at all. For instance, routine filter changes promote high levels of system efficiency. They also keep particulates like pet dander, dirt, and debris from circulating throughout a building. This is a great way to lower your home energy costs and improve indoor air quality. When homeowners regularly clean or change filters, the filters can do their jobs effectively.

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Clean All Supply Vents And Registers

Dust, dirt, lint, and other accumulations can build up in the supply vents and registers. Unfortunately, these are areas that homeowners frequently overlooked when they perform spring HVAC maintenance. If these spaces are difficult to reach or difficult to clean on your own, place this task in the hands of qualified HVAC contractors. Much like regular filter changes, cleaning air registers and vents will help promote a higher quality of indoor air.

 

Test The Thermostat

Make sure that the thermostat is working as it should. Check the immediate area for sources of cold or heat that could affect the temperature readings. At the start of every cooling and heating cycle, take a look at the numbers to ensure that the unit doesn’t need to be calibrated. For optimum home comfort and a greater level of energy efficiency, you should additionally think about having a programmable or smart thermostat installed.

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Turn On The Air Conditioning System

This step might seem like a no-brainer, but you don’t want to wait until the heat arrives to verify that the HVAC system works. Turn your air conditioning system on to see whether or not adequate amounts of cooled can pass through the vents. If the system does not seem to have sufficient cooling power or if the air that it distributes smells dusty, revisit some of the earlier maintenance steps to make sure that each one has been done properly.

 

Conclusion

During the summer months, a comfortable home is usually a cool one. Don’t wait for the hottest day of the year to find out whether or not your home cooling system works. Schedule an appointment with a reputable heating and cooling technician for a complete AC inspection. Check your unit, change out the filter, and test your thermostat. By identifying and resolving HVAC problems early on, you can keep your living environment and your entire family comfortable all throughout the months of spring and summer.

Call Point Bay Fuel For Your Home HVAC Requirements

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth counties. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, all of our services prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. We back all of our work with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

 

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Top 5 HVAC Emergencies: How To Identify & Prevent Them In Your Home

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems provide your home with cold or warm air. This way, you and your family’s home comfort and safety are maintained throughout the year. An HVAC unit is a complex system that consists of various parts for it to work effectively. Unfortunately, like any other machine, it can experience problems as time passes. Five of the most common HVAC emergencies your equipment might experience include refrigerant leaks, clogged lines, electrical issues, negative air pressure, and gas leaks.

When these emergencies occur, your system stops working correctly. For example, your home or office might end up scorching hot or extremely cold. In this article, we will talk about these different HVAC emergencies so you can identify them and prevent the problem from getting worse.

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Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant is a substance used in the refrigeration cycle to cool the air that your air conditioner circulates throughout your home. However, refrigerant leaks can happen due to vibrations, weakened joints, and problematic connections in the refrigerant lines. When this happens, you will notice that your system is not cooling your home as it should. Instead, it will release warm air instead of the normal temperature.

There are a few signs to look out for when you suspect that your unit’s refrigerant is leaking. Aside from the register not blowing cold air, you will hear a hissing sound from your indoor unit. This sound comes from the holes and cracks in the coil. If you also notice a sudden increase in your electricity bill, then you might be dealing with a refrigerant leak. Another sign is frozen coils. The refrigerant does not circulate properly through the coils, and the condensation will cause the coil to freeze.

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Problems With A Clogged Line

The drain line is where the condensation from the evaporator passes through and releases in the drain pan. Over time, muck and algae can clog it up, especially if the drain pan is left full of water. This clog can escalate and lead to water damage to your system. A few signs that you have a clogged line include increased humidity in your home. You also might notice rust or mold in your unit.

Negative Air Pressure

Negative air pressure means that your HVAC equipment is pulling air into your home from the outside. It pulls through the:

• attic
• basement
• crawlspace
• the gaps around windows and doors
• light fixtures
• electrical outlets

Your heating system, such as a furnace and a fireplace, can also draw air up and force it out, contributing to negative air pressure. In fact, it’s the exhaust system inside the HVAC that creates much of the negative air pressure.

Some of the signs that your home is experiencing negative air pressure include unusually cold or hot rooms, doors opening and closing by themselves, and random air drafts throughout your house. Another sign is odd and whistling noises. All these signs might make you think that a ghost is haunting your house, but you should check your HVAC system first before jumping to conclusions.

The best way to combat negative air pressure is to bring in more air than your home exhausts. This can be achieved by incorporating a duct to the return ducting of the HVAC system. This way, air can be brought in from the outside throughout the day. Another method of drawing more air in than what is exhausted is to adjust the heat recovery ventilator/energy recovery ventilator (HRV/ERV). Talk to a licensed HVAC contractor, such as Point Bay Fuel.

 

Gas Leak

A gas leak in your home means danger is imminent. It can result in an explosion if not detected early. A few signs of a gas leak are the smell of sulfur or rotten eggs around your home, hissing or whistling sound, and dead houseplants. Make sure that you get your system checked regularly by a professional to prevent any leaks in the future.

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Electrical Issues

Electrical problems could indicate that there is an interruption in the electrical system. Check your breaker first and make sure that the circuit breaker is “on.” If you have a fuse box, you may have blown a fuse. Replace the fuse as necessary. Also, you can always check your emergency shut-off switch. However, if there is still a problem, it is time to call in a professional. There may be an issue with an electrical contactor. An electrical problem could leave you without heat. If you live in a cold climate or it is the middle of winter, this could not only be inconvenient, but it could also be life-threatening.

 

Preventing HVAC Problems

There are a few things you can do to ensure that your HVAC system is in tiptop shape. For instance, make sure that the duct is cleaned regularly. A thorough cleaning of the coils, air handler, fans, grilles, motors, and housing of the HVAC system should also be done.

Change the HVAC air filters in the HVAC system as often as recommended by the system manufacturer. The filters are there to keep dust, dander, and other pollutants from circulating within your home. The filter also protects the unit from damage, so it is vital that they are not blocked. You should also keep the evaporator coils free of dust and other debris. You can use a spray bottle filled with water and a mild detergent. Allow the solution to sit for a minute or two and then wipe away all the accumulated matter. However, you must call an HVAC contractor to inspect your unit and clean it professionally.

Check your AC for signs of water damage or clogged lines. If you see any of the tale-tell signs like ice buildup and refrigerant lines hissing, call a professional to correct the problem. To keep your air conditioning and heating unit running properly, you should schedule an annual maintenance check by a certified professional.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For Your Home HVAC Requirements

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, all of our services prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

 

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7 HVAC Tips For A Strong End To Winter

The coldest days of winter are now starting to fade. What lies ahead is a transition to warm weather as we move towards spring. This means that the furnace will soon be resting for a while. The milder temperatures will allow you to do some work on your HVAC system without too much discomfort. For those who want to end the season on a strong note, below are a few end of winter hvac tips:

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Check Your HVAC Air Filter

Lots of heating and cooling problems can be traced to the air filters. When these get too dirty, they prevent air from getting in. Consequently, the system begins struggling to breathe. This forces the equipment to work harder to keep air passing through and maintain ideal temperatures. It consumes more energy, which makes heating or cooling more expensive for the household. Since January and February tend to be the coldest months, the furnace is likely to run constantly to generate more heat. You need to check if the furnace filter is up to the task. Clean it up or replace it right away to make the system run more efficiently.

 

Consider Upgrading Your HVAC Unit

Since it is technically still winter, few will be thinking about upgrading their unit at this time. Most will try to wait it out until temperatures have gotten to the point where they can do away with the HVAC system for awhile. The problem with this strategy is that this can waste a lot of time and condemn the family to months of discomfort. It may also keep the energy costs elevated due to damaged parts. With swift action, all of these can be prevented. A highly problematic heater should be replaced as soon as possible to keep everyone comfortable for the rest of the winter up to the colder days of spring.

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Inspect Your HVAC Air Ducts

Air filters are not the only components that get dirty. The ducts can also suffer from the same fate. As dirt and dust enter the system, deposits build up along the ducts until clogs become an issue. This will put a similar strain on the system as it cannot work as efficiently as it should. It will also result in poor air quality, which can affect the health of the family, especially those who are vulnerable to respiratory ailments. These should be inspected and cleaned periodically. It can be hard work, so it is best to let the experts perform this with their specialized tools.

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Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Don’t wait for the end of winter before you act. Schedule HVAC maintenance right away so you can be first in line for their spring visits. A lot of households that do spring cleaning take this opportunity to include the HVAC system. However, all the slots can fill quickly. If you act now, then you can secure an early spring slot and finish maintenance work before the mad rush begins. Any issue in the furnace can be found and fixed right away. The air conditioner can also get a tune-up so that it’s ready to face the coming summer.

 

Consider A Thermostat Upgrade

If you aren’t quite ready to replace your whole system, then consider making small but meaningful upgrades instead. The thermostat is a good place to start. There are lots of new models with impressive features that increase efficiency and convenience. For example, you can get a programmable thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature to your desired levels at certain times of the day. The system can lay low during your scheduled work hours and come back to life right before you arrive. Some even have WiFi so you can control the smart thermostats using your mobile phone wherever you may be.

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Reduce Energy Loss Through Drafty Windows

 

Drafty windows cause air to escape. The heating and cooling system may be working hard but the house will never feel quite right if there are gaps around doors and windows. Therefore, you should look for these gaps and seal them up. If you have already done so before and the problem persists, perhaps there are areas that you missed. HVAC contractors can help identify air drafts and other weaknesses along the walls. These will be dealt with immediately. Thermal curtains may also be hung across windows to prevent thermal loss.

Clean Up Your Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit is vulnerable to debris and precipitation. It is likely to collect leaves, gunk, salt residue, and stale water throughout winter. All of them can interfere with its functions. If you want the unit to work as it should, then clean it up from time to time. The HVAC system will work more efficiently with proper care. For tasks that are beyond removing debris, then call an HVAC company.

 

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Conclusion

The seasons change in a predictable pattern. Think ahead and do what’s necessary to keep your HVAC system in top shape to avoid problems. You will enjoy a longer service life, better energy efficiency, lower energy bills, and a higher degree of comfort. Talk to a reputable HVAC company today to schedule your next system maintenance or repair.

Call Point Bay Fuel To Learn More About Our Home Comfort Services

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

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The Top 7 Benefits Of A Ductless Split System

Many homeowners are starting to take interest in ductless splits. As their name implies, ductless systems do not require a network of ducts to distribute conditioned air. However, they still provide reliable heating and cooling performance. Is a ductless split system the right option for you? Take a look at the ductless split system benefits before you make a decision.

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What Is A Ductless Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split system is a type of heating and cooling system that delivers hot or cold air without requiring the installation of ductwork. Ductless heating and cooling systems allow individualized temperature control of rooms and spaces.

A ductless mini-split has two main components – the outdoor condenser and the indoor air handler. The two units connect via cables, tubing, and a drain line. The indoor unit distributes conditioned air into indoor spaces.

Mini-splits generally have multiple indoor air handlers, each of which can be controlled independently, temperature-wise. The outdoor heat pump either absorbs or distributes heat, depending on the season or preferred use.

A ductless system can either be a single-zone or a multi-zone setup. A single-zone system conditions air in a single space or room. It is often used for under-served areas of the home, such as the basement, patio, or a newly-built addition. A multi-zone system, on the other hand, can deliver conditioned air to several rooms or spaces. The only difference is that the temperature in every room can be set independently.

One of the best ductless split system benefits is that it can heat and cool spaces in a home independently, which means that comfort can be personalized. Ductless systems are also highly efficient and stable. With good maintenance, they can remain reliable for many years.

 

Ductless Systems & Energy Efficiency

Ductless mini-split systems have consistently rated high in terms of energy efficiency. On average, ductless systems earn the Energy Star rating due to their performance. Since the system can be programmed to heat or cool only certain zones or rooms, you save more in energy consumption. To cut down energy costs further, you could turn off indoor air handlers in rooms that are vacant and turn them on only if they are occupied.

 

Mini-Split Systems Improve Indoor Air Quality

Mini-split systems do more than just condition air. They also help improve the quality of air indoors. With advanced filtrations, ductless HVAC systems can trap and prevent harmful particulates from being distributed into the rooms.

Ductwork is often notorious for collecting pollutants. Since a ductless system does not require ductwork, there is no component that will trap harmful particulates.

Unlike window type ACs, ductless heating and cooling systems do not collect mold, bacteria, dust, and other microorganisms. The high-efficiency air filters that the units come with are also easy to clean and replace.

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Ductless Zoning

One of the most outstanding features of a ductless mini-split system is zoning. Zoning allows you to assign rooms or spaces into different zones. The temperature of each zone can be customized to fit individual cooling and heating needs. With customized comfort, you get to enjoy a cool and inviting environment as well. Ductless zoning units are also built to operate quietly. As such, you can enjoy a virtually noise- and distraction-free environment.

 

Ductless HVAC Systems Installations

Since no ductwork system is necessary, ductless HVAC systems are relatively easier to install. On average, you can expect the installation process to be completed in a day. If you happen to be at home during the ductless installation, you can be assured that any activities you may have will be largely uninterrupted. The absence of ductwork also means that you will have no issues regarding special permits or building walls to accommodate ductwork. To connect the indoor and outdoor units, the technician merely has to drill a small, 3-inch hole through the wall.

 

Reduced Home Heating & Cooling Costs

Some experts estimate that you could cut cooling and heating costs by about 30% if you switch to ductless from a conventional AC. Since ductless HVAC systems are highly efficient, they consume less energy without sacrificing performance.

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Ductless Heating & Air Conditioning Lowers Your Carbon Footprint

With a high-efficiency ductless HVAC system, not only are your heating and cooling costs reduced, but you also consume less energy, thereby reducing your carbon footprint. As such, ductless systems put less burden on the environment and your pockets as well.

Flexible Heating & Cooling Solutions

Ductless HVAC systems have a wide range of applications for both residential and commercial uses. They are excellent options for small rooms, new additions, attics, offices, and basements. They also solve heating and cooling issues in problematic rooms, such as those that experience higher or lower temperatures than the rest of the building.

Many homeowners who have a central HVAC system in place use their ductless system to lower your heating and cooling costs since ductless HVAC systems are si energy efficient. Ductless is also the way to go to create comfort for older historic homes without existing HVAC ductwork.

 

Conclusion

A ductless HVAC system offers a number of advantages that conventional AC systems cannot. These systems are highly efficient, provide even heating and cooling, ease of installation, and reduced energy costs. With ductless systems, you can also enjoy zoned heating and cooling that allows you to control your indoor environment, so you get to enjoy the type of comfort that suits you best. Are you ready to make a decision? Call your trusted HVAC contractor now to discuss your needs.

Call Point Bay Fuel To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post The Top 7 Benefits Of A Ductless Split System appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.