Monday, April 25, 2022

Air Conditioner Short Cycling: Causes & Effects

a homeowner feeling hot and sticky due to an air conditioner short cycling

AC short cycling can cause your energy bills to skyrocket and damage your air conditioner. Short cycling is a phenomenon where an air conditioner turns on and off repeatedly in a short amount of time. This can lead to several problems, including increased energy usage, system wear and tear, and even a breakdown.

It’s essential to understand the causes of short cycling so that you can address them and prevent them from happening in your own home. In this article, we talk about causes and solutions for short cycling.

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What Causes AC Short Cycling?

1. Large Air Conditioning Units

Oversized air conditioners can cool your house quickly, but they can also be wasteful, create humidity problems, and result in an inconsistent cooling experience around different spaces. You’ll find that some spaces are always hot, while others are cold. This is because the unit can’t turn off quickly enough, and it’s constantly cycling on and off. Rather than purchasing an oversized air conditioner, fit it to the size of your h0me. While choosing the biggest and most powerful AC unit available may be tempting, this is not always the best decision.

2. Blocked HVAC Air Filters

image of an hvac air filter replacement

Homeowners need to regularly replace their air filters and monitor them to ensure proper airflow. The system will work harder if the filters get too dirty, leading to air conditioner short cycling and an eventual breakdown.

Filters should be replaced regularly in all homes, but some require it more frequently. Ideally, check them monthly and replace them when they are dirty. Some homes (those with pets, for example) may require a more frequent filter replacement than what is recommended by the manufacturer. Checking and changing your filter when it becomes dirty should be a monthly ritual.

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3. Unclean Or Icy Evaporator Air Conditioner Coils

dirt on air conditioner coils

The evaporator coils are the part of the air conditioning system that absorbs the heat from the air in the house. Dirty or frozen evaporator coils will not be able to do this properly, which can cause the air conditioner to overheat, leading to automatic shut-offs. Cleaning or replacing the coils can help the air conditioner run more efficiently.

There are several reasons why your evaporator coils might freeze. One of the most common reasons is a mechanical issue, such as a dirty air filter or a problem with the blower motor. If the coils keep freezing, then it’s likely that there is a more serious underlying issue that will require the assistance of a professional HVAC contractor.

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4. Inadequate Air Conditioner Refrigerant Levels

image of an hvac contractor checking ac refrigerant levels

A few things can cause your air conditioner to short cycle, but low refrigerant levels are one of the most common. When it comes to moving heat from the inside to the outside, you need the refrigerant at an optimum level. When there’s a leak, the refrigerant loses its efficiency, and the air conditioner will continually turn on and off to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house.

You can fix this by having a qualified HVAC technician come out and check if there is a leak. If they find one, they can repair or replace the necessary parts. Refilling the air conditioner with the appropriate amount of refrigerant will also prevent short-cycling behavior.

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5. Air Conditioner Electrical Problems

Defective wiring and malfunctioning control boards might sometimes be the source of the short cycling. Electrical problems could be the reason for your air conditioner’s under-performance. Homeowners should not try to fix air conditioning electrical issues on their own, as it can be hazardous. Instead, they should ask HVAC technicians to check the system and determine whether the wiring or control board is faulty.

6. Incorrectly Positioned Thermostat

If your thermostat is located near a window that gets a lot of sunlight, it may cause your AC to short cycle and turn off too quickly. Take a look at all the heat sources in the house, as they could be fooling the sensors into thinking that your indoor temperatures are higher than they are. After a brief pause, it will reactivate and turn itself off again. You may need to insulate or reposition the thermostat to a more suitable spot.

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Why You Should Prevent Air Conditioner Short Cycling

1. Air Conditioner Equipment Damage

The sudden start-and-stop cycling of an air conditioner places enormous strain on the system components, which can eventually break down. Over an extended period, this will lead to massive repair costs and a reduced service life that proper maintenance could have avoided.

2. High Utility Bill

image of homeowners paying high cooling costs

When an AC system keeps turning off and on, it needs to cool the area again, using energy that costs the homeowner money. This on-off cycling of the air conditioner can add up to a significant amount over a month.

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3. Uneven Temperature

You’ll also find that conditions are uneven throughout the room where the AC unit is located. When an air conditioner short cycles, it can cause one section of a room to become significantly hotter than the rest of the space. The short bursts of warm air don’t allow cool air to circulate correctly, making the room quite uncomfortable.

 

In Summary

Short cycling is a common problem with air conditioners and can be very harmful to the system. It can also be expensive for homeowners, as it can cause the air conditioner to work much harder than it should and can lead to premature failure.

Scheduling a yearly AC tune-up will allow you to keep an eye out for possible problems and address them as soon as they arise. Short cycling can be prevented by addressing electrical problems, refrigerant leaks, and filthy coils.

When You Need Help With Your Air Conditioner, Call Point Bay Fuel

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Point Bay Fuel provides top-notch heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. When it comes to HVAC repairs, installs, and replacements, you can count on our certified technicians to deliver superior service. Your HVAC system will be serviced by top-notch professionals who will identify and address short cycling and any other issues with your system.

Point Bay Fuel ensures the most affordable heating and cooling service prices in the area. Thanks to our HVAC system maintenance, your home’s cooling expenditures can be reduced while you enjoy improved comfort and increased efficiency. If your air conditioner is short cycling, don’t delay addressing the issue — the sooner you get repairs, the sooner you can enjoy comfortable home temperatures once again.

We can also help you choose the best HVAC system for your home while staying within your budget if you need it replaced. For your peace of mind, we guarantee all of our work. Make an appointment with Point Bay Fuel to get your air conditioner serviced. We provide in-home estimates for all our services.

And the best part? Our service is hassle-free. There are no pressure sales tactics, just great service at great prices. So, don’t let your air conditioner short cycle! Give us a call today!

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Monday, April 18, 2022

Why Is My Heat Pump Blowing Hot Air In Cool Mode?

a homeowner feeling hot and sticky due to a heat pump blowing hot air in cool mode

Without a doubt, heat pumps are highly versatile equipment. They’re able to provide comfort year-round given that they’re designed to provide both heating and cooling in homes according to the preferences of residents. If it’s too cold inside during the winter, then you can warm your house up with a heat pump. If the summer months cause the building interior to become too hot, you’re able to use the very same equipment to cool your living space down. It’s easy to toggle between modes of operation and to alter temperature settings. However, some homeowners discover that their heat pump blowing hot air in cool mode. Let’s take a look at some of the possible reasons why.

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Why Your Heat Pump Is Blowing Out Hot Air While in Cool Mode

Even though heat pumps boast an impressive level of durability, they do have finite lifespans and they certainly aren’t invincible. When a heat pump blows out warm air during a cooling cycle, this is a common issue and a sign of malfunction. With this in mind, it’s important to familiarize yourself with all of the most common problems that heat pumps can develop. Taking the time to learn more about the various reasons why this heat pump issue occurs will give you the ability to proactively prevent it in the future. This will additionally allow you to try some simply heat pump troubleshooting strategies on your own, before turning to an expert for more advanced interventions and repairs. Following are seven things that you’ll want to check whenever this particular problem rears its head:

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1. The Reversing Valve in Your Heat Pump Is Broken

heat pump refrigeration cycleThe key to any heat pump’s overall versatility is its reversing valve. Depending upon how you set your heat pump, it will collect warm inside air and then deposit it outdoors or gather hot air from outside and push it into the building interior. The flow of refrigerant is directed by this valve so that heating and cooling goals can be achieved. When the reversing valve on a heat pump is broken, it isn’t able to perform as it should. The most common solution to this problem is replacing the reversing valve and then adding more refrigerant. This is a complex job indeed and it requires the skills and expertise of a professional HVAC technician.

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2. There’s a Problem With Your Heat Pump’s Thermostat

homeowner adjusting thermostat

More often than not, heat pumps develop this problem as the result of an incorrectly programmed thermostat. It may be that the heat pump has been set to run with only the fan, in which case, it will blow hot air around your home. You should check the thermostat settings on your heat pump to verify that it’s actually in cool mode. If it isn’t, change the settings as needed. Someone might have toggled the setting away from cool mode on accident. There’s also the possibility that the thermostat has a low battery so be sure to put fresh ones in to see if this fixes the issue. You can additionally check to ensure that the circuit breakers haven’t been tripped.

If the problem continues, the thermostat might be defective. There’s nothing you can do but replace the defective unit with a brand new one. Older, manual thermostats are often due for replacements anyway, so this is really just a good opportunity to get the job done. You can purchase a simple programmable thermostat at a very reasonable cost. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, you can get a more advanced programmable thermostat with a range of amazing features, functions, and capabilities.

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3. Your Heat Pump Has Lost Refrigerant

Heat pumps, unlike furnaces, don’t generate heat on their own. Instead, they absorb heat with refrigerant from one area and then move it to another. If there isn’t sufficient refrigerant moving across this system, it won’t be able to accomplish its task. You might have the right setting at the thermostat and the reversing valve could be just fine, but your heat pump will continue to blow out hot air while it’s in cool mode. Insufficient refrigerant is often the result of a leak. A professional HVAC technician can repair the leak and add new refrigerant right away.

4. Your Heat Pump Has a Clogged Air Filter

image of dirty ductless mini-split filters

Air filters are designed to capture and retain dirt, dust, and other debris. These particulates settle on the surface of the filter and air passes through. However, this layer of dirt can become so thick that the passage of air becomes restricted and then eventually, outright blocked. This is a problem that can be easily solved by cleaning your air filter to eliminate the build-up. It’s even better to simply replace a clogged air filter with a brand new one for a truly fresh start. Read through your owner’s manual to find out how often your heat pump’s air filter needs to be replaced or cleaned. Keep in mind that environmental conditions and other factors around your home could make it necessary to change the air filter more often than your owner’s manual suggests.

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5. Your Heat Pump Has Duct Leaks

image of technician inspecting hvac ductwork

Air ducts can degrade over time due to normal wear and tear. If your ducts are getting along in years, they could be leaking conditioned air. This will prevent your heat pump from distributing hot or cold air efficiently. You might have several rooms throughout your home that feel cold and others that are much warmer. Contact an HVAC company to help you resolve this problem. Taking care of this situation will improve air distribution overall. However, it will additionally reduce energy use and allow for lower utility bills. To enjoy lasting savings and improve home comfort, schedule ductwork repairs as soon as possible.

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6. The Heat Pump Coil Is Dirty

image of a dirty heat pump coil

Given its location, the outdoor component of your heat pump is subjected to a lot of dirt and debris. You have to think about just how dusty the environment is. You also have to account for things like pet hair, dried leaves and other organic materials, lawn clippings, and so forth. An accumulated layer of dirt will prevent your heat pump from expelling or absorbing heat through its cools. This is why it’s important clean heat pump coils on a regular basis. You can use a water hose at a low or medium pressure setting to flush away loose debris. If you set the water pressure to high, you could damage the unit, so be sure to check the pressure settings before completing this task. If there are stubborn spots, you can scrub these away with a soft brush.

Your heat pump’s indoor coils should also be cleaned. You may have a harder time accessing these coils, so consider putting this job in the hands of a licensed HVAC expert. Scheduling tune-up service for your heat pump is both affordable and guaranteed to provide worthwhile returns.

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7. The Indoor Coil on Your Heat Pump Is Frosted Over

Finally, you also have to consider the possibility that your heat pump troubles are the result of an indoor coil that’s frosted over. This might seem a bit counter-intuitive for a frosty coil to cause your heat pump to blow out hot air while it’s in cool mode. However, it actually makes a whole lot of sense when you know how heat pumps function. Freezing coils occur when the moisture starts to condense around the coils indoors due to low temperatures. Icing prevents coils from collecting heat and this causes heat pumps to stop functioning as they should. Your heat pump will be down before you can turn fan mode on. This will then force hot air through the coils to defrost the ice.

Does Your Heat Pump Need To Be Replaced or Repaired?

You might wonder whether you should continue paying to have your heat pump repaired or if you should simply opt for a heat pump replacement. Consider these things before making any big decisions:

  • The Warranty on Your Heat Pump: Find out whether or not your heat pump is still under warranty. If there is an active warranty, then you can always count on this agreement to cover your labor and materials charges. It’s a sound financial choice to keep your current unit around so long as it has an active warranty.
  • The Age of Your Heat Pump: The average heat pump will last for 10 years or longer. However, once heat pumps pass the 10-year mark, they’ve usually sustained a considerable amount of wear. Heat pump repairs will be required more frequently and most consumers don’t want to deal with the hassle. If want a system that performs consistently, go ahead and invest in a new one at this point.
  • Heat Pump Repairs vs. The Cost of Replacing Your Heat Pump: It’s also a good idea to compare the costs of repairing your heat pump to the cost of replacing it. Take a minute to add up all of your repair bills over the past several years and then try to estimate how much more you’ll have to pay in the future. Buying a new heat pump could be much cheaper than keeping the one you already have.

 

Final Word

No matter what season you’re in, a heat pump can help you enjoy a comfortable living environment. This unit can blow out cold air with the outside temperatures are hot and warm air when they plummet. If your heat pump starts forcing out hot air while its in cool mode, then the problem needs to be identified. The cause may be one of the reasons detailed above. To get immediate assistance, contact a trusted HVAC company right away.

Contact Point Bay Fuel for Help With Your Heat Pump

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You can always get first-rate heat pump services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey when you call Point Bay Fuel. Our top-of-the-line technicians come highly certified and they’re more than capable of handling all of your heat pump installation, replacement, and repair needs. They know how to get the job done right.

When it comes to heat pump service costs, Point Bay Fuel will give you the most competitive rates in the region. Our maintenance team can also ensure that you’re always enjoying optimum levels of comfort and efficiency, and manageable heating and cooling bills. When your heat pump is ready to be replaced, we’ll also make sure that you choose the right one for your budget, your household, and your home heating and cooling goals. The work that we provide is always backed by a solid guarantee. Set up your service appointment now by calling Point Bay Fuel. We offer in-home estimates.

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Monday, April 11, 2022

Smoke Coming From Vents When AC Is On

Man Looking in an HVAC Air Vent

The cooling system is a crucial component of your home’s comfort. You might be wondering what you should do in case a problem arises. If the air conditioner is blowing smoke, determine if there is also an air conditioner smell. This article helps you figure out potential problems. However, it is still best to consult an air conditioning technician, so all serious or potentially dangerous issues are ruled out. They have the trained eye to determine why smoke is coming out from the vents when the air conditioning system is on.

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Air Conditioner Blowing Smoke: Causes & Solutions

Read on to learn about the typical culprits behind the smoke coming out of the vents when the air conditioner is switched on.

AC Condensation Accumulating In The Heater Box

condensation from air conditioner

If white smoke is coming out of your vents, it is likely that it isn’t really smoke. There’s a good chance that it is condensation, especially if it doesn’t have any smell.

Air conditioners pull in warm air, which is then cooled, naturally resulting in condensation. If condensation accumulates in the heater box, the condensation could turn into vapor and get released with the cooled air. As a result, white smoke or fog escapes from the air conditioner vents. A blocked drain line can be what causes the excess water in the heater box.

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Cold Dry Air Comes In Contact With Warm Air

White fog typically forms when cold air hits warm air, especially if the warm air is highly humid. This is like when you go out on a cold day, and you see your breath. When warm, moist air comes into contact with cool, dry air, condensation or water droplets form, and you will see them as fog or white smoke.

One of the common culprits behind this issue is that the air conditioner doesn’t have proper airflow. Try turning on your air conditioner to cool your home faster and help lessen the problem.

Moreover, ensure that air filters are cleaned or changed regularly. Having a professional HVAC contractor conduct yearly air conditioner inspections can help ensure you have a properly-functioning cooling system at home.

Air Conditioner Drain Hole is Clogged

air conditioner condenser

Many newer air conditioner models aren’t equipped with drain holes, but older ones usually do. The evaporator coil of the air conditioner generates condensation as warm air is cooled. This condensation needs to drain. The condensate drain line helps drain the water outside, far from your cooling unit. However, the drain line can get clogged as time passes, and this can cause the water to back up into your air conditioner. White vapor is generated and released on the air conditioning vents when this happens. Regular air conditioner tune-ups can help avoid drain line problems.

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Failure Of An A/C Component

An air conditioner has become a staple in many homes because of its convenience. However, it is often put under heavy strain. An air conditioner is often burdened to keep up with the cooling demands during the summer season.

It is only natural that the air conditioner’s components eventually fail as the system ages. If the air conditioner utilizes a belt-driven fan, smoke can come out due to a failing fan belt.
The fan motor might have also burnt out. If the smoke coming out the vents has a foul smell, turn the air conditioner off immediately as this smoke can be toxic. Contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem. Sometimes, the best solution is to replace the aging air conditioning unit.

Overheating Air Conditioning Unit

woman plugging nose due to smelly air conditioner

If the white smoke has a strange smell, it is likely that the problem is more severe than mere condensation. An air conditioner is made of several electrical components that can overheat, especially if air doesn’t flow properly throughout the air conditioner.

A dirty HVAC air filter or clogged vents can be the problem. Make sure to turn off the air conditioner immediately and call a trained HVAC technician to prevent the problem from escalating. An HVAC professional will determine which part/s are overheating. These components likely need replacing before the air conditioner can be safely used again.

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Air Conditioner Electrical Problems

A wiring problem is another reason there is smoke coming from the air conditioner’s vents. Your cooling system consists of many wires and electrical connections. If even one of them is faulty, they can release smoke and bad odor.

Again, remember to turn off the air conditioner right away when it is emitting a strange smell. An electrical problem can be very dangerous. It can even cause a fire if ignored. A trained HVAC professional is needed to fix this problem.

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Is Your Air Conditioner Setting Off The Smoke Alarm?

air conditioner setting off smoke alarm

It can be a little unsettling when your smoke alarm goes off. However, it is likely not a smoke issue that’s causing it. Generally, a power surge can be the reason behind your air conditioner setting off the smoke alarm.

Unplug the air conditioner or pull the air conditioner’s circuit when it happens. Call a professional afterward. The issue is likely caused by how the air conditioner was installed. It could also be due to a problem with your home’s electrical system.

Is The White Smoke Coming From Your Air Conditioner Odorless?

Take action when you notice smoke coming from the vents of your air conditioner. Determine if the smoke has a foul smell or is odorless. If it is the latter, there’s a high chance it is a condensation issue. However, you still shouldn’t ignore the problem as an air conditioner that’s not draining properly can cause other problems.

If the white smoke has a bad smell, it is likely because of a failing component or an electrical problem. It is crucial that you turn off the air conditioner immediately and contact a trained HVAC technician in both cases.

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How To Avoid Smoke Issues With Your Air Conditioner

There are several steps a homeowner can take to ensure that their air conditioner functions as intended. The first one is annual air conditioner maintenance. An HVAC professional will inspect the cooling system for any signs of trouble. They will also repair the problems before they escalate into bigger ones. Moreover, simple tasks like regular air filter replacement can go a long way in preventing issues.

Another problem that many homeowners overlook is the size of the air conditioner. An air conditioner that is too large or too small for the space can be problematic. Consult an HVAC professional if this is a concern.

 

Conclusion

It is crucial that you are aware of any cooling system problem you might have. The first sign of a problem, like white smoke coming out the vents of your AC, means that it is time to call a professional HVAC technician. There are some issues that are not as dangerous but could still result in higher air conditioner repair costs down the road. Other air conditioner problems could be hazardous and should be dealt with right away. A trained HVAC technician can assist you in this area.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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Point Bay Fuel provides top-notch HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. We hire only the best professionally certified technicians who can conduct all your excellent heating and cooling service needs, including boiler tune-ups, air conditioner repairs, ductless installations, and more. Each tech has the right tools, knowledge, and experience to promptly and accurately service any HVAC system.

Rest assured, our company has one of the most competitive HVAC service rates in the locality. Our maintenance services help improve comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency while reducing your home’s energy bills. We can recommend the best heating and cooling repair or replacement system for your home and budget. All our work comes with a guarantee because your satisfaction is important to us. To schedule a service appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today. We offer in-home estimates.

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Monday, April 4, 2022

5 Things To Check When Buying A House With An Old HVAC Unit

image of a house for sale depicting buying a house with an old hvac unit

Buying a house is a daunting task. On one hand, it’s thrilling to search for a new place to be your home. However, you want to ensure that you purchase a solid piece of property that’s in good condition. This way, you can live in it without a lot of issues. One important aspect to consider before purchasing is buying a house with an old HVAC.

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5 Things To Check On The HVAC System When Buying A New Home

The following are what you need to check regarding the heating and cooling system when you are buying a new home:

Assess The HVAC Equipment

image of an hvac inspection by point bay fuel

Inspect the HVAC equipment when doing a house walkthrough. Look for signs of cracks, rust, water stains, and dents. Switch on the air conditioner and furnace so you can listen for any odd noises, such as hissing or clanging.

Check the unit’s age as well. Most HVAC systems have a lifespan of 15 years before they need to be replaced, with some lasting for 20 years or more with proper maintenance. Ask if they can provide the units’ maintenance records. If the system is over 15 years, consider the heating or cooling replacement cost and how it will fit in your budget. You can also consult the HVAC technicians at Point Bay Fuel for a professional assessment.

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Check The HVAC Ductwork

Like the heating and cooling system, HVAC ductwork won’t last forever. Therefore, inspect the ductwork where possible. If you can go up the attic or in a crawlspace, look for gaps in the ductwork runs. Check all vents to ensure the duct is firmly connected as well.

Check the ducts’ inside to see if there is dust buildup or signs of mold growth. Dust buildup is a sign of neglect, but it can be removed. On the other hand, mold is due to excess moisture in the duct, which can cause potential failure.

Ask About Insulation

 

image of house insulation

It is also essential to know the amount of insulation the house has and when it was installed. An inadequate amount of insulation means that the house is inefficient and will likely have higher energy bills. Insulation installed several years ago has likely settled, so the house may require additional insulation. If the real estate agent doesn’t know this information, ask them to relay the question to the seller.

Take your time to assess how comfortable the home feels while walking through the house. Check if you feel drafts as you walk past doors or windows. There might be rooms that feel colder or hotter than others. Assess if the air feels musty or stale as well.

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Consider The Air Conditioner Refrigerant

Check the type of refrigerant the cooling system uses. Older ones may use R-22, which was a common refrigerant for some time. However, the EPA has banned its use in new cooling systems. R22 has been completely banned since 2020. Therefore, R22 will be harder to find and more expensive to purchase should the unit require a top-off. You need to retrofit the existing system for a new refrigerant or replace it with a new one.

Weigh The Cost Of HVAC Replacement & Ongoing Energy Costs

image of a price tag depicting hvac replacement pricesIf you buy a home and its HVAC system needs to be replaced, do you have the financial reserves to deal with it? Buying a home with an old system means you are at risk of this scenario happening.

Moreover, consider how much money the system needs to operate. The homeowner should have no problem showing their energy bills for at least the past two years. Unusually high energy bills often mean a poorly-maintained HVAC system. It could also be on its last legs.

These tips will help you decide if the HVAC system should hold you back from purchasing the house. You can also consult your local, trusted HVAC company to provide you with a professional assessment during the homebuying process. Set an appointment and call Point Bay Fuel today.

Additional Items To Consider

Listed below are additional aspects to check around the home in connection to its HVAC system:

Room to Room

imahe of a home buyer feeling hot with air conditioner

Be attentive to the temperature and moisture level from room to room. Check if there are any drastic changes in particular areas. A few common culprits behind uneven temperatures in homes are blocked vents, leaky or blocked air ducts, poor insulation, wrong air conditioner or furnace size, or an older HVAC unit.

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Vent Flow

Man Looking in an HVAC Air Vent

Find the intake and outflow vents around the home. Check if air constantly flows through them or if the force of air changes from vent to vent or in various rooms. Several reasons for low airflow through a few or all vents are air duct leaks, clogged or dirty ductwork, dirty or blocked air filters, restrictive HVAC filters for your unit, overly large ducts, or vents that are too small.

Zoning

Check to see if the home has multiple heating and cooling zones. If there aren’t, see if the current system is capable of HVAC zoning so you can accommodate the setup should you choose to in the future. Ask your realtor about this information.

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HVAC System Age

As mentioned above, find out how old the HVAC system is and when the unit was installed. Research the specific model, especially how long these HVAC units usually last. In some cases, it might seem like you have an old system, but it actually still has a few years left in it. Air conditioning systems typically have a 15-year lifespan, while furnaces, on average, need to be replaced when they are 15 to 20 years old.

History of Maintenance

image of a furnace tune-up by an hvac contractor

Ask the current homeowner to give you as much tune-up and repair history as possible. This information helps you determine the maintenance interval you need to do and how well-maintained the system is. Older HVAC units that haven’t received proper maintenance are more likely to break down and usually need replacing earlier than well-maintained ones.

Warranties and Service Plans

Check if the HVAC system has any active warranties or service plans. More importantly, determine if they can be transferred to you or if you can use them as long as they are in place. Inquire about this essential information to the current homeowner. The homeowner can include a one-year home warranty on the HVAC system and other appliances in case they stop working.

Thermostats & Detectors

carbon monoxide alarm

House inspections include checking the thermostat and carbon monoxide/smoke detectors. However, it is also recommended that you know their model, age, and capability. This way, you can decide whether or not to replace them or wait until their expected lifespan ends.

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Equipment Manuals

Ensure that you get a copy of all HVAC machinery equipment manuals. If physical manuals are unavailable, get the model or serial numbers as most manuals are available for digital downloads. Manuals provide helpful insight in case of an emergency.

Physical Unit Inspection

Take note of any noises, rust, or dust. After all, the slightest sound or the smallest speck might signify a developing issue with your HVAC system. If you are seriously considering buying the house, contact your local, trusted HVAC technician to do a full inspection of the unit.

 

Conclusion

This article helps you determine whether the system is worth keeping or is it best to do away with it completely. The latter means you have to replace the system to install a brand new heating and cooling system. This is no small expense, so you might want to negotiate the house’s cost or set aside some money for a system replacement.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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For superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey, don’t hesitate to call Point Bay Fuel. We have the best professionally certified technicians on staff who can conduct high-quality HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. Each of our friendly techs has extensive knowledge and years of experience to service your HVAC system promptly and correctly.

Our company guarantees highly competitive HVAC service prices. Our maintenance services help improve your comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your heating and cooling bills. We can recommend the best solutions for your HVAC repair or replacement system needs while staying within your budget. All our work comes with a guarantee because your satisfaction is important to us. Schedule a service appointment and give Point Bay Fuel a call today. We offer in-home estimates.

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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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