Cooling

May 4, 2023
Preparing Your HVAC System for the Summer Months in Florida

Preparing Your HVAC System for the Summer Months in Florida

May 4, 2023

The summer months in Jacksonville and its surrounding areas can get pretty hot and humid. It’s essential to have a functioning HVAC system when it’s time to switch from heat to air conditioning. In order to ensure the reliability of your system and its related equipment, there are some steps you should take to prepare for the summer. These HVAC tips can get you ready for a cool and enjoyable summer, regardless of what Mother Nature has in store. 

 

Checking and Replacing Your Filter

 

It seems too easy to be important, but replacing your HVAC filter is crucial for a number of reasons. For starters, a clean filter will help promote healthy indoor air quality in your home. A clogged filter can cause problems with airflow throughout your HVAC system, which could compromise the comfort of your indoor air. Not to mention, restricted airflow could also result in damage to your equipment. 

 

It’s a good idea to check your filter monthly to see if it needs to be changed. Most filters require replacement every 30 to 90 days. However, make sure it’s also part of your summer HVAC maintenance checklist. 

 

Assessing Ductwork and Vents

 

Ductwork is an area of the home that you can’t evaluate very well without the help of a professional. HVAC technicians can use specialized equipment to see into the depths of your ductwork. They can provide you with a report on how dirty or clean your ducts are. If they are coated in a lot of dust, dirt, or other particulates, professional cleaning may be in order before summer arrives. This will prevent the interior components of your furnace and air conditioning system from becoming clogged and dirty, which can decrease efficiency. The decreased life expectancy of your equipment can also be an issue if you don’t keep these components clean and clear. 

 

Dirty and clogged vents can be a common issue that should be addressed before summer arrives. Check the vents in your home to confirm that they don’t look dirty and are not covered by any items in the room. You should also keep vents open to promote proper airflow throughout your home. 

 

Schedule Annual HVAC Maintenance

 

It’s ideal that you have routine maintenance performed on your HVAC system once per year. Spring into early summer is the perfect time to make that appointment. A professional tune-up of your HVAC system will include a number of steps. A technician will inspect the interior electrical components of your furnace and air conditioning unit. If any minor damage is spotted, repairs can be made right away before major problems develop. This appointment will also include checking refrigerant levels in your air conditioning unit, checking your filter, cleaning drains, and checking the internal motor. 

 

Once you have had an annual maintenance appointment completed, you can make this a yearly event. Most HVAC companies will contact you again next year when it comes time to schedule another appointment. Routine maintenance is worth the time and money, so you know that you can rely on a cool and comfortable home even in the middle of a heat wave. Failing to keep up with your annual maintenance could even void your warranty.

 

Outdoor Preparation

 

While a lot of your HVAC equipment is present on the interior of your home, there is outdoor work that should be addressed as well. Homes that have a central air conditioning system will have a condenser outside. Before you use this equipment to cool your home during the summer months, make sure that the area is clear. There may be debris, brush, or branches that have positioned themselves around your air conditioner. They should be carefully removed to promote proper airflow. A technician can also open up this air conditioning unit to check its interior components. This includes refrigerant levels and electrical connections. 

 

Make the Most of Your HVAC System

 

If you run an air conditioner during the hot summer months, there are some things you can do in the spring to maximize the performance of your cooling system. HVAC companies tend to see a lot of air conditioner repairs in the summer months. Generally, this is because of overuse. The more you use your equipment, the more likely it is to break down. You will make a few changes to the interior of your home to help circulate cool air and keep it contained all summer. 

 

If you have ceiling fans installed in your home, they can be run in tandem with your air conditioner to distribute cold air throughout each room. Just make sure that you’ve changed the direction of your ceiling fans so that they are turning in a clockwise motion. This helps to direct airflow downward, so you have optimal cool air where you’re located in the room. 

 

You may also want to consider using blackout shades in rooms of your home that get a lot of direct sunlight. By keeping the sun out of these rooms, they won’t heat up nearly as much. Your air conditioner won’t need to run as frequently to bring your indoor temperature down to what you have your thermostat set at. 

 

Consider an HVAC System Upgrade

 

Your average HVAC system has a lifespan of 10 to 25 years. That time frame is on the lower end if you’ve skipped routine maintenance over the years. An older model has likely undergone some seasonal maintenance and periodic repairs. While your HVAC system may still be functioning, its efficiency may decrease if it’s very old. Newer models have upgraded features that provide you with efficiency and ideal comfort. Having a new unit installed may cost you some money upfront, but you end up saving a lot of money in the long run. 

 

You can consult with an HVAC technician to see what type of unit is recommended for your home. The one that you currently have may not be appropriately sized based on the square footage of your home. You may also lack the correct ductwork, which can prevent your home from getting cooled down in the summer. Necessary adjustments can be made, to prepare your home for summer. Just make sure that you get your HVAC installation scheduled early. Things really start to pick up in the summer, and you might have to wait a number of weeks for your appointment. 

 

If you need HVAC support in your Florida home, reach out to Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling for assistance. We serve the Jacksonville community and surrounding areas, providing routine HVAC maintenance, emergency repairs, indoor air quality assessments, air duct cleaning, and much more. Whether you need your thermostat serviced or something more involved needs to be repaired, like your air conditioning refrigerant lines, we’re here to help. Give us a call today to set up an appointment. We’ll help you stay cool and comfortable all summer long.

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How to Avoid AC Unit Humidity Problems

How to Avoid AC Unit Humidity Problems

July 19, 2022 ,

During the hot summer months, the last thing homeowners want is an air conditioner that adds humidity to their houses, especially in Jacksonville. An AC unit that functions properly should not only cool your home but actually decrease humidity levels in the process. Sometimes the humidity problems that arise while the air conditioner is running have nothing to do with the unit at all. Here are some things to think about when tackling the issue.

Dust and Dirt Are Accumulating

Now and then, air filters tend to accumulate dirt and dust. This can cause both indoor and outdoor AC units to malfunction. When the air conditioner’s coils gather dirt and dust, the unit is not able to efficiently draw heat from inside the home, leaving the air humid.

If you suspect that this may be the problem, consider doing some maintenance on your air filtration system. When your AC unit is free from dust and debris, the refrigerant cycle should begin functioning normally again.

The Evaporator Coil Is Frozen

If your AC unit’s evaporator coil is frozen, you will notice a layer of ice forming over it. A frozen evaporator coil is typically caused by either a lack of airflow or a lack of refrigerant flowing through the coil. Since both of these problems require significant maintenance, it is best to call an HVAC professional.

Your AC Unit Is Not the Right Size for Your Home

An air conditioner will be able to cool your house most effectively if it is the right size. If you have a large AC unit that is only cooling a relatively small amount of space, the system will run for short cycles. If your AC does not run for long enough, it will not be able to cool your house evenly or sufficiently pull the moisture from the air. On the other hand, if your AC unit is small but you have a large amount of space to cool, it will work as hard as it can and still fall short of making your residence cool and dry.

As a general rule of thumb, you should multiply the total square footage of your home by 20 to figure out how many BTUs (British thermal units) your AC unit will need to provide. For example, if you live in a 1,500-square-foot house, you will want a cooling system capable of providing about 30,000 BTUs.

The Thermostat Is Not Set Correctly

If your AC unit’s thermostat is set to “AUTO”, the system should cool and dehumidify the air whenever the fan begins to run. If it is set to “ON,” however, the unit’s fan will run continuously, interfering with the cooling and dehumidifying process. Be sure the thermostat is set to “AUTO” and not to “ON.”

There Are Too Many People in the House

When there is a large number of people crowded into a single space, your AC unit will simply not be able to cool and dehumidify your house as effectively. If it is a hot day, consider spending time with guests outdoors until the AC has enough time to sufficiently cool down your home.

Carpeting and Windows

While carpets provide any room with a nice aesthetic, they tend to retain moisture. Although your AC unit should be able to remove moisture from the air, it has a much more difficult time doing so from carpets and other fabrics. If moist carpets are bothersome, consider removing them and replacing them with something more water-resistant like tile flooring.

Additionally, condensation tends to build up quickly on windows. Lining your windows with storm coating or plastic film can aid in reducing and even eliminating moisture buildup while your cooling system is operating.

Your Unit Is Using Too Much Refrigerant

Just as a lack of refrigerant can cause problems within your AC unit, so can too much refrigerant. Too much refrigerant can overcharge the unit, resulting in a lower cooling capacity and eventually causing the compressor to burn out.

A thermal expansion valve might be just what you need in this case. A thermal expansion valve, or TXV, will adjust the amount of refrigerant being used so that the unit is always receiving exactly what it requires. This allows the evaporator coil to remove heat and humidity, regardless of the current temperature or circumstance.

Excess Moisture From Beneath Your House

In climates characterized by significant rainfall, the soil beneath the foundation of homes can hold quite a bit of moisture. This is one of the main reasons that basements tend to be the most humid part of a house — particularly those that are not insulated well and do not have windows.

One of the biggest things that you can do is ensure that your gutters and downspouts are working correctly. If rainwater is not being properly directed away from the house’s foundation, moisture is bound to penetrate the home.

Cooking and Other Activities Naturally Add Moisture

Water vapor from cooking will bring up humidity levels significantly. If your oven has a ventilation fan, make sure that it is running whenever you are boiling water or using the stove. If you do not have a ventilation fan above your stove, purchasing one can make a profound difference.

Other activities like showering can also contribute to excess moisture. Taking cooler showers and making sure that your bathroom’s ventilation fans are working are great ways to combat this nuisance.

Your AC Unit Is Too Old

Even top-quality AC units cannot work well forever. This is particularly true for air conditioners that have not been consistently maintained. While some problems within the system can be fixed fairly easily, others cannot be. If you are trying to decide whether to have your unit repaired or replaced altogether, there are a couple of things to think about.

If your AC unit has been cooling your home for 10 to 15 years, it is probably best to get it replaced. Making proper repairs at this point would likely be more expensive and inconvenient than simply purchasing a new unit.

If you think an AC system of a different size or brand might be a better fit for your house, then buying a new one is probably the optimal thing to do. An air conditioner that is too big, too small, or otherwise lacking in compatibility with your house’s structure will see little to no improvements upon being repaired.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

If you live in a humid climate, sometimes even a perfectly functional AC unit will not be able to keep your home as dry as you would like. A dehumidifier that can support your air conditioner is a worthwhile purchase.

With drier air, your AC unit will cool your house much more quickly and will not need to work as hard. Even having a single humidifier in a room that tends to retain a large amount of humidity can make all the difference.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we are ready to tackle HVAC problems in Jacksonville, Florida and the surrounding areas. With additional services such as heating, UV lighting, ventilation testing, air quality, and more, our team of experts is committed to providing you with the highest level of comfort year-round. Give us a call today, and let our professionals get to work on your home!

RDHCEditorHow to Avoid AC Unit Humidity Problems
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How to Unclog Your AC’s Drain Lines

How to Unclog Your AC’s Drain Lines

May 18, 2022

Owning an AC can make your home feel welcoming, especially in the hot summer months. To keep the AC in tip-top condition, you need to conduct frequent maintenance like changing the air filter and ensuring the drain lines are free of any gunk, dirt or debris. Your AC is a significant investment that also has many factors regarding your family and home life, so you don’t want its drain lines to clog. If that happens, you probably will want to fix the issue right away. Read on for what you need to know about unclogging your AC’s drain lines.

What Is an AC Drain Line?

Your AC works by absorbing humidity and heat within your home. The humidity condenses on the condenser coils and thaws water into a drip pan. The excess is taken out through a drain line, thus keeping your home relatively dry inside. The drain line is located outside your home, where the AC unit resides. This small dripping line ensures that your AC can remove all condensation from the coils. The line is made of metal or PVC pipe and acts as a funnel for condensation and humidity. It’s a crucial aspect of your AC since it helps prevent the system from potential damage to insulation and ductwork.

To prevent clogs in the drain line, you should clean it regularly during the hot months. Clogged lines can cause poor air quality due to mildew and mold growth. They can also lead to a rise in humidity.

Causes of a Clogged Drain Line

Your drain line can end up with blockage due to algae. The drain line is always humid because of the warm air that blows over the coils of your AC. Add in the condensation that travels through the pipe and you have perfect conditions for algae to grow. If you leave your AC running for a long time, it’s more likely for the drain line to be clogged.

Signs of a Clogged Drain Line

One clear sign of a clogged drain line is when your AC stops working. The drain line ensures that excess condensation is extracted from your AC. Therefore, when it’s operating properly, you can find small water droplets at the end of the line outside your house. However, when there is a problem in the drain line, there can be a blockage or a backlog of water. Additional signs of a clogged drain line include:

  • Water damage around your AC. This can be on the floor or near the fan.
  • The condensate pan fills up frequently or stays full for long periods of time.
  • Water flooding around the AC’s air handler.
  • A moldy smell in your home. This can result from a blockage anywhere in the system, but it can definitely indicate a problem with your drain line.
  • Your AC is not running or cooling. If your AC has a water safety switch, it may automatically turn off when it detects a clog to prevent further damage.

Unclogging a Drain Line

It’s relatively easy to clean and fix regular, smaller clogs. It’s advisable to avoid using bleach to unblock the drain since chemicals can cause more damage to other components of the AC. Below are the steps to follow when cleaning a clogged drain line.

1. Turn Off the AC

Turn off the power at the breaker, and make sure your thermostat is inactive.

2. Find the Drain Line

The drain line is a metal or PVC pipe that’s usually located on the outside of your home. You can find it near the condenser unit, and you should have a bucket nearby in case the drain line is full.

3. Identify Where to Access the Drain Line

Most units will have a T-shaped vent with a cap. This covers the top of the drain, and inspecting it helps determine the location of the blockage.

4. Assess the Blockage

Check the drain line to see whether there are any visible clogs. If you can see the blockage, you can remove it manually. To do this, wear some protective gloves. However, if the clog is further down the line, move on to the next step. Remember not to push the clog further down.

5. Flush the Blockage

Vinegar is the best solution for removing clogs in your drain line. It has excellent cleaning capabilities because of its acidity. If you find its smell too strong, you can use warm water and soap to dilute it. After this, you can begin cleaning by pouring a quarter cup of vinegar into the drain line. After it’s full, you can stop and wait.

6. Wait for 30 Minutes

You should leave the vinegar solution in the line for 30 minutes and later flush the line with water. Ensure that the water flows consistently to guarantee that the blockage is cleared. If the water doesn’t flow normally, you should contact an HVAC specialist.

After completing the process, you can repeat it monthly to ensure that the drain line doesn’t have a large clog. Besides, the frequent cleaning helps prevent your AC from running into any issues. It’s not advisable to undertake serious maintenance repairs by yourself; however, if you have a clogged drain line, it shouldn’t be much trouble to fix.

Is It Normal for a Drain Line to Have Water In It?

Yes, it is. The drain line can drip water at the exit outside your home. This indicates that your drain line is working perfectly and that it’s removing moisture and condensation generated by the coils. During hot seasons, the drain line can funnel more water daily. However, if you notice leaks inside your home or anywhere along the drain line, it can indicate a severe clog.

How to Prevent Clogs in the Drain Line

Using high-quality air filters can help filter debris and dust in the AC unit. This can help avoid clog buildup in the drain line. You should also change the filters regularly – at least every three months. If you have smokers and pets in the house, you should replace them frequently.

Opting for routine maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your AC. Having the equipment checked routinely can ensure that it operates at its peak performance. This can save you time and money on costly repairs down the line.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, our team of specialists is proud to serve all your AC needs in Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas. As a family-owned business, we have the highest quality of services and extensive experience in the HVAC industry. We also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we make the best efforts to ensure that you are well taken care of with each service we offer. Contact us today to resolve your heating and air conditioning issues.

RYNO SolutionsHow to Unclog Your AC’s Drain Lines
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Quack Protection Plans

Quack Protection Plans

When your AC goes QUACK it puts unwanted stress on your family. The Quack Protection Plans help to keep your family safe during the hot Florida summers and the bitter winter freezes. Scheduled and consistent maintenance of the vital HVAC systems within your home can increase lifespan, decrease energy costs, and decrease the unwanted QUACK of your system.

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