Monday, May 24, 2021

Is Your Air Conditioner Making A Strange Noise?

homeowner hearing hissing noise from air conditioner due ac making noise

Air conditioners are not built to be a hundred percent quiet. New units will still produce some sounds that are normal for its everyday operation. These sounds are typically nothing to be worried about. However, there are cases where an air conditioner making noise is a symptom of a bigger problem. Therefore, it needs to be checked by an HVAC expert immediately. A part or some parts of your system might not be working correctly, which could be the reason behind the noise. If this is the case, your air conditioning unit might not be operating as it should as well.

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What Air Conditioner Noises Should I Be Aware Of?

Newer models of air conditioners are quieter than older ones. The advances in technology had made noise-dampening possible so that air conditioning units generate noise that is only at 55 dB or less. This way, your AC’s noise level matches that of a standard dishwasher. If your air conditioner has a problem, you will likely hear these sounds:

Air Conditioner Is Buzzing

If you hear buzzing sounds from your AC, it is likely experiencing an electrical problem, or the fan blades in the outdoor unit are out of balance or loose. Other causes could be other loose components, damaged outdoor fan motor, or dirty condenser coils. An air conditioner refrigerant leak can also cause your air conditioner to emit a distinct buzzing sound.

Humming Coming From A/C System

image of air conditioner compressor

An air conditioner that is producing a humming sound might have a defective contactor relay switch. When this is the cause, your AC might not switch on. Let a licensed HVAC technician to handle this issue as this is an electrical problem that is best left in the hands of a professional. Humming noises can also be because of fan motor problems.

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Air Conditioner Clicking

Air conditioners emit a clicking sound when the cooling cycle begins or ends. However, if there are frequent or continuous clicking noises, you could have a faulty thermostat. The thermostat needs to be replaced by a professional cooling technician when this happens.

Air Conditioning Screeching Sound

image of a homeowner plugging ears due to air conditioner noise

A screeching sound is one of the most distinct noises a malfunctioning cooling system will have. It most likely has a problem with the condenser’s fan motor. The fan’s job is to get rid of the heat from the refrigerant. Therefore, if the fan is defective, your system will not be able to cool your home effectively.

Another culprit behind the screeching noises is a damaged blower fan motor. This component helps in the heat and humidity removal inside your house by pushing the air to the return ducts. The air is then cooled in the air conditioner before the blower fan distributes them through the air vents. Other causes of the screeching sounds are a bad fan belt and damaged fan motor bearings. Call your local trusted technician immediately when you hear loud screeching noises from your AC.

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Air Conditioner Clanking

A clanking sound might mean that a metal component of your air conditioner is loose, and it is hitting another metal component. If this is the case, you likely need to get this loose or unbalanced part replaced. For instance, the blades might have become loose in the indoor blower or outdoor fan of your AC. The blades will then hit other parts and produce the clanking sound. Do not let this issue escalate further, and call an HVAC expert before the damage worsens and might need a costly repair.

A/C Unit Whistling

image of an hvac contractor checking ac refrigerant levels

If you hear a whistling or a high-pitched sound from your air conditioner, it might be because of a refrigerant leak. Another culprit is high pressure in the compressor. Whichever of these might be the cause, make sure to have a professional HVAC contractor handle it immediately. These issues are serious, so turn off your air conditioner and let a professional resolve the problem.

Cooling System Is Banging

A defective compressor typically emits a banging noise. This sound is generally heard from older cooling units because age and regular use can prompt some parts to loosen or unfasten. It could also be that an AC component, such as the crankshaft, piston pin, or connecting rod, is broken. The banging will also be heard if your air conditioner has an imbalanced indoor blower. If this is the cause, you will need to have a professional replace the air conditioner compressor.

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Rattling Coming From Air Conditioner

A rattling noise within your AC might be because there is loose debris inside the outdoor unit. Debris could include twigs, clumps of dirt, and leaves that fell inside the outdoor condenser. This is easy to repair as all that needs to be done is open the condenser and remove the debris. If the condenser is clean and you still hear a noise, the problem might be because of a defective electrical contractor. Call a professional right away and get it fixed before it causes more damage.

Call To Schedule An Air Conditioner Repair Consultation

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An air conditioner emitting loud, unusual noises can be experiencing mechanical problems like a damaged blower fan motor, a faulty fan belt, or a malfunctioning fan. If the fan blades are loose, you will likely hear a whirring sound. A best-case scenario would be that there is only debris trapped in the indoor blower fan or outdoor fan unit. However, if the sound you hear is like when the paper hits a fan, consider it a warning that the problem is more serious.

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Conclusion

All air conditioners undergo a manufacturer’s quality test. Therefore, if it is installed properly and maintained regularly, your cooling system will likely last 15 years or more. However, like any other machine, it will no longer perform as it used to as time passes. You will probably hear more noises as components become worn out over time. Do not hesitate to call your local, trusted HVAC contractor to help you identify the problem behind the sound. This way, correct solutions are applied at all times.

 

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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When you require superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey, look no further than Point Bay Fuel. We hire highly skilled and professionally certified technicians who can conduct high-quality HVAC maintenance, installations, replacements, and repairs. Rest assured, all our friendly techs have years of experience and extensive knowledge to conduct correct and prompt HVAC services at all times.

Our company offers highly competitive costs on all our HVAC services. We can help you achieve the home comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality you deserve with our maintenance services. We can recommend the best and most budget-friendly heating and cooling repair and replacement solutions as well. All our services come with a guarantee. Book your next tune-up or other service appointments with us today. Call Point Bay Fuel for an in-home estimate.

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

 

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Monday, May 17, 2021

Find Out Why Your Air Conditioning Unit Leaks Water

image of an air conditioner that is leaking water

If you notice your air conditioner leaking water Lakehurst NJ, it has probably raised some concerns for you. Normally, air conditioners filter out water while operating. Sometimes, when water leaks from your AC unit, it is generally because it collects condensed water and pours it out into your drainage. The only time you should be concerned is if your air conditioner is excessively draining out water at an alarming amount. In this case, you should immediately have an AC specialist examine your unit for any damage. Point Bay Fuel offers professional air conditioner services. We can properly diagnose why your air conditioner is leaking water.  Homeowners should be aware and know when it is important to call for professional help. In this article, we will summarize the principal causes for this.

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Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

By knowing what causes a leaking air conditioner, you will be able to…

repair any issues before they escalate into major issues. Smaller issues are much more affordable to fix. Also, the performance of your system will improve when you repair any issues early on. While some reasons for an air conditioner leaking water outside are not major and do not require the skills of a pro, there are some that do. Below you will find out which ones call for immediate attention.

Light Water Leakage

image of a water drop from air conditioning unit

If your air conditioner has a small amount of water dripping from the system, you should not be overly concerned because it is a standard operation for your system to go through. The reason you see water dripping from your system is because of the warm moist air being collected. Your air conditioner evaporates and condensates the air into water drops. The water drops then go through a filtering system and flow down into a drainage pipe. Most of the time, you will not even notice the water dripping, particularly if your unit is connected correctly.

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Other Causes For Air Conditioner Water Leakages

Condensate Drain Blockage

The droplets collected from the air are filtered through a condensate drain. A condensate drain is designed so the water that is filtered can flow through your air conditioner. Sometimes the droplets can carry dirt and dust which forms into mud mixed with the water. The mud that is created packs up over time and blocks the condensate drain. When this happens, it results in an overflow in the condensate pan. An overflow in your system typically happens when you neglect to maintain your AC unit.

Air Filter Blocked

hvac air filter replacement

Your AC unit will have an air filter that will separate the air from the dirt and dust in your home. The air filter is one of the remarkable features that come with an air conditioning unit. You would be surprised at how much an air filter actually does for your indoor air quality and the health of your air conditioning unit.

The reason why your air filter clogs up is that the dirt and dust particles build up and block the screen. Once this happens, your air conditioner will no longer be able to filter enough air. When this happens, the water drops that are collected will start to freeze. Water drops that start to freeze will turn into ice. The ice will melt when you disable the system and it reaches room temperature. As a result, an overflow will occur in your condensate pan.

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Damaged Condensate Pan

If you have an older AC unit, your condensate pan can crack due to rust and tear from long-time usage. The condensate pan acts as a filter for water drops. When the condensate pan is damaged, your air conditioner will leak out through the system. You can avoid this from happening by having an expert clean it for you during an AC tune-up.

Poorly Installed AC System

image of an HVAC technician working on air conditioning system

Your air conditioner will also leak water if your air conditioner is not installed correctly. There are times when the drainage pipe to your air conditioner is not connected to the system securely. Without a proper connection to your AC unit, the filtered water will leak out. You should call an HVAC contractor to evaluate your system and reconnect the pipes to ensure your system works accordingly.

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Signs To Know When To Call For Help

Many people will see water dripping from the AC unit and believe there is an issue right away. You should observe the water leakage of your AC unit (if the water is flowing out continuously and in large amounts). It would be wise to have an HVAC expert check out your system to save yourself from damaging your unit. An air conditioner that leaks an excessive amount of water can be dangerous.

You can also avoid water leakage by making it a habit to maintain your air conditioner regularly. By maintaining your cooling system annually, you will be able to avoid problems with your AC and save money in the process by preventing unnecessary repairs.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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Point Bay Fuel provides high-quality HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. We have the best professionally certified HVAC technicians for all your cooling and heating needs. Rest assured, each of our techs is knowledgeable and experienced to conduct excellent HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements correctly and quickly every time.

Our company offers one of the most affordable and competitive HVAC service prices in the area. We can also improve your home’s comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency through our maintenance services. When you need HVAC repairs or replacements, we can recommend the best budget-friendly solutions as well. Book a service appointment with Point Bay Fuel today and receive a free, in-home estimate.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

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

We service Beachwood NJ 08722, Jackson NJ 08527, Lakehurst NJ 08733, Lakewood NJ 08701, Manchester Township NJ 08759, Pine Beach NJ 08741, Toms River NJ 08753, and surrounding towns.

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

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Monday, May 10, 2021

What To Look For In An Air Conditioner Replacement Company

image of a woman deciding between air conditioner installation companies

When replacing an air conditioner, you need to make sure it is worth the investment. After all, air conditioners can be pricey. Do not just purchase the best air conditioner you can get your hands on. You need to select the best air conditioner replacement company as well. A highly energy-efficient HVAC unit can be rendered useless if it is not installed properly. An air conditioner that is installed correctly can last you for a long time without much trouble.

Read on to find out everything you need to know when searching for the ideal air conditioner installation company.

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Tips for Finding A Good Air Conditioner Replacement Company

Here are a few tips to help you find the best AC replacement company. This way, you can reap the full benefits your system has to offer, including an extended lifespan, energy-efficient performance, healthy indoor air quality, sufficient airflow, and more.

1. Valid Professional HVAC License

One of the best ways a technician can showcase their expertise is by having a professional HVAC license. This means they went through extensive training and rigorous screening, so the state could grant them the necessary licenses to operate. Check the license of all potential HVAC technicians or have them tell you their license numbers. Ask them if they are insured as well. This way, you are protected if something goes wrong.

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2. NATE Certification & Other Reputable Industry Accreditations

image of the word certified depicting hvac contractor certificationMake sure the HVAC contractors that you hire have received their training from a reputable certification organization. For example, the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is a series of tests that ensure the technician is the best in the industry. It gauges their mastery of various topics like electrical circuits and safety protocols. Every two years, there is a required training that needs to be completed for certified HVAC contractors to maintain their certification. It is an assurance that they are informed of all the recent advancements in heating and cooling, which is necessary with the fast-paced technological advances in the industry.

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3. HVAC Company References

Once you have a list of HVAC contractors, contact them and ask for references. They should be able to provide you with a client list who will be glad to talk about the company’s services. Talk to them so you know what to expect when you hire these contractors. Doing so will give you have an idea of how they work. After all, it is better to know than to get surprised later.

4. HVAC Contractor Reviews

image of hvac contractor reviews

Check for any online reviews about the HVAC companies in your area. They typically have social media pages or websites you can go to read reviews. However, it is best to read feedback on neutral sites. You can also ask your family, friends, and neighbors for reviews about the HVAC installation companies they have worked with before.

5. In-Home Consultation Visits

Phone calls are not enough to convey what HVAC technicians need to know to assess the situation accurately. Therefore, a reputable VAC contractor will offer free home visits to inspect the AC unit thoroughly. This way, they can determine what needs to be done properly. This will allow them to provide an accurate estimate of the services they need to do on your cooling unit.

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6. Written Air Conditioner Installation Estimates

When the HVAC installer gives you an estimate, it should be written on paper along with all the necessary information. This way, you can study it carefully and understand how they arrived at this value. It also helps you to compare estimates between different HVAC contractors before you select one. Make sure to keep this piece of paper as it also serves as your protection from sudden price changes.

7. Scientific Load Calculation

image of an HVAC technician working on air conditioning system

Do not just copy the sizing of your old air conditioner. It might not be the right one as the old unit could either be too small or too big for your home. The HVAC contractor should do a scientific load calculation to ensure that your unit’s size is the most suitable one for your home. Also known as HVAC load calculation (Manual J load calculation), this calculation includes several unique factors, like floor area, insulation, the number of rooms, and more. Therefore, do not trust HVAC contractors that rely on general rules of thumb. It might not be as accurate, and you might end up not receiving the comfort and performance levels you want from your AC.

8. HVAC Company Name Recognition

HVAC companies that have been providing good services to their clients earn the community’s respect. They are always one of the top names that come up when searching for recommendations for HVAC contractors. These companies have typically been in business for a long time. Their longevity is proof that their customers trust them in providing excellent HVAC maintenance, installation, repairs, and other heating and cooling services.

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9. Factory-Authorized

Air conditioner manufacturers partner with excellent HVAC companies that pass their standards. The HVAC companies are evaluated on their background, training results, insurance status, and satisfaction surveys. Once they pass, they become authorized to install the AC manufacturer’s systems. If you prefer a specific air conditioner brand, it is recommended that you hire an HVAC contractor that specializes in their products. This might earn you different perks, such as extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees.

10. HVAC Solutions Offered

Make a list of what you think needs to be improved regarding your experience using your old air conditioner. For instance, the old one might break down a lot, is frequently leaking, or is too loud. Give this list to your HVAC technician and listen to their recommended solutions. This will give you a look at how competent and experienced they are in handling these problems.

 

Conclusion

It might be tempting to go for the company with the lowest bid, but it might end up costing you more because of faulty installation. Do not hire an amateur handyman and an HVAC contractor that cuts corners. This way, you do not have to go through the hassle and expense of getting it repaired in the future. Make sure you do right from the start by choosing a professional HVAC replacement company equipped with the best reputation and credentials.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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Point Bay Fuel provides high-quality HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. We have the best professionally certified HVAC technicians for all your cooling and heating needs. Rest assured, each of our techs is knowledgeable and experienced to conduct excellent HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements correctly and quickly every time.

Our company offers one of the most affordable and competitive HVAC service prices in the area. We can also improve your home’s comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency through our maintenance services. When you need HVAC repairs or replacements, we can recommend the best budget-friendly solutions as well. Book a service appointment with Point Bay Fuel today and receive a free, in-home estimate.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

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

The post What To Look For In An Air Conditioner Replacement Company appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, May 3, 2021

How Does An Air Conditioner Tune-Up Save Me Money?

hvac technician servicing air conditioner

Summer is just around the corner and this means that temperatures are rising to an incredible degree. Many homeowners will be seeking shelter from the sweltering heat in the comfort of their air-conditioned homes. Not only does a good AC unit cool the home, but it reduces the relative humidity experienced in the hot summer months.

To ensure that your comfort is not costing you a small fortune and to avoid the costs of unnecessary air conditioner repair work, an annual air conditioner tune-up is in order.

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How Does An Air Conditioner Tune-Up Save Me Money?

Here are some of the ways that a regular AC tune-up can save you cash this summer.

Lowers Your Power Bills

image of homeowner saving money due to air conditioner tune-up

According to the statistics by the US Department of Energy, roughly half of the energy used in the household is spent on cooling and heating the home. While it will not be possible to eliminate these expenses entirely, at least not without enduring the heat and cold outside, there are many things that can be done to make these expenses as manageable as possible.

A properly cared and maintained air conditioner saves you cash. On the other hand, an AC that has lost its lubrication has weak belts or has dirty coils and filters that will not function as well. The various issues that can present themselves in a rundown unit mean that the cool, clean air needed to keep the home comfortable will barely flow.

The result is that it takes more energy to accomplish less work. The US DOE estimates that the average home can improve its energy consumption by as much as 15% by simply replacing the filters once they have become clogged.

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Repairing or Replacing Your Air Conditioner Is Much More Costly Than AC Maintenance

Just like the functionality of your car or your level of good health, it is far cheaper to maintain optimal function with your AC unit than seek treatment for serious problems. An AC that has received a lifetime of proper care and maintenance will last as long as 15 years more than an AC that has never received this important attention.

The average cost of regular maintenance may cost as much as $200 for an, especially advanced unit. This figure can be reduced depending on how much attention your AC receives, what parts need to be replaced, and other small details.

By comparison, the cost of replacing the same AC unit can be as high as $3000. Furthermore, the costs of repairing an AC that has stopped functioning can cost less than a new AC, but far more than investing in regular tune-ups. As you can see, it is far cheaper to preserve the AC you have than provide maintenance when it has malfunctioned.

Negligence Of Air Conditioner Maintenance Can Void Your Warranty

hvac warrantyIf you are not on top of your AC maintenance and care, your AC manufacturer could void your warranty. If you are negligent in your AC tune-ups, you may face the high costs of repairs and replacements even if you have a warranty. Without regular care and attention, you lose the advantage of the warranty that can save you thousands of dollars on AC maintenance and repairs. To keep your warranty intact, and protect your investment, you will want to collect the receipts that state your AC has received the proper care and maintenance it needs.

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Maintain Healthy Air Quality

The air quality of your home is another factor that must not be ignored. The consequences of poor air quality can be especially costly in the long run. The US Environmental Protection Agency warns of the health consequences of airborne contaminants in the home. Mold spores are one of the most common risks that can result from poor air quality.

Molds can have a detrimental effect on the health of those living in the home. Mold growth can result in asthma and a variety of other respiratory conditions. This includes headaches, skin conditions, and reduced immune function. Furthermore, mold colonies can impact the structural integrity of your home and cause thousands of dollars to remove effectively.

But AC maintenance includes deep cleaning of air passages and the removal of clogged filters. This means that the air being circulated throughout the home will be of the highest quality. After you have had your filters removed and your AC cleaned, your AC technician may be able to provide you with other important tips on how to keep the air quality of your home at an optimal level.

Cooling Energy-Saving Tips

image of energy efficiency and home

In addition to the skill and experience your AC technician will provide in keeping your AC unit working well, they have other valuable skills to provide. A good AC technician can provide you with a host of other small tips and tricks that can optimize the functionality of your AC unit. This will result in less energy being used to provide better cooling. Tips can include sealing air ducts, pointing the cool airflow away from windows and sources of exterior heat, and proper filter usage. In the long run, the advice of your AC technician will help you reduce your energy costs in the long term, meaning that regular tune-ups will eventually pay for themselves.

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Common AC Problems Addressed By Regular Air Conditioner Maintenance

According to the US DOE, the major causes of AC failure are dirty and neglect. Here are some of the problems that can be avoided and remedied by regular AC unit maintenance:

  • Leaks Or Improper Refrigerant Charge- if the refrigerant level of your AC is low, even just 20% lower, you can end up paying twice as much on cooling bills.
  • Electric Control Failure- electric control failure can be avoided by having the compressor and fans regularly inspected and serviced. Corroded wires, loose connections and dirty contacts can cause all kinds of electrical problems and result in failures.
  • Dirty HVAC Filter- Dirty filters block airflow and make your AC unit work harder. They can also result in dirty coils and other important components that will experience a reduced service life.
  • Clogged Condensation Drain- As the AC unit extracts moisture from the indoor areas, this condensation is released out the condensation channels. If these channels become blocked, all kinds of issues can result. The AC can shut off automatically or a build-up of ice can thwart the smooth function of your unit.

 

Conclusion

A regular inspection and maintenance from a professional AC company have many benefits for your economy and the service life of your AC. If you have not had your AC unit serviced recently, it is a good time to make that call and protect your investment and health. In the long run, you will save money and avoid costly repairs.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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When you need superior HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, do not hesitate to call Point Bay Fuel. We only hire the best professionally certified and highly trained technicians who can do HVAC services like maintenance, replacements, installations, and repairs. All our friendly techs are skilled, knowledgeable, and experience in conducting accurate and prompt services at all times.

Rest assured that Point Bay Fuel offers the most competitive HVAC service rates in the area. We can improve your home’s comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency with our maintenance services. If you need to replace your old HVAC system, we can find the best make and model to suit your needs and budget. Book an appointment with Point Bay Fuel today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

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

The post How Does An Air Conditioner Tune-Up Save Me Money? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.