When To DIY and When To Hire a HVAC Pro

Home AC repairs of any kind can be inconvenient and costly. Because expenses can add up, many homeowners try to do repairs themselves to avoid spending money on labor costs.  However, it is important that you recognize what you are able to handle on your own versus what it too difficult to do on your own.  Because your HVAC system is an important part of your home, it is essential that you don’t take on more than you can handle, leading to more repairs and more expenses.

Here are Some Tips

Tasks for Homeowners

Regular maintenance on your AC unit each year is necessary so that it works efficiently all year long.  Simple tasks, like cleaning the outside of your unit and removing all debris from around it, are things that can easily be done by homeowners.  Checking the condensation drain for leaks or cutting back vegetation away from the unit is also recommended.  Inside, homeowners can change air filters regularly for cleaner air and a more efficient HVAC system.  Additionally, check the thermostat each season to make sure it is working correctly. Homeowners can sometimes even lubricate parts for increased efficiency.  Just be sure all power is turned off before attempting to clean or lubricate any part of the unit.

During the winter, homeowners can and should turn off the AC and cover it to protect it from elements during the cold months.   Most of these tasks are preventative and can keep larger problems from occurring during times of significant use.  If at any time, you feel uncomfortable performing any task, rest assured that the professionals at Comfort Experts are willing and able to help you maintain your ac unit during the spring and fall seasons.

Why You Should Call the Professionals

It is best to call the professional ac repair technicians any time parts need to be repaired or replaced.  The professionals are guaranteed to do the job right the first time.  While it may be more money upfront, it can save you money on costly mistakes if you try to attempt repairs on your own.

HVAC professionals will have all the necessary tools to complete ac repair jobs.  Furthermore, because of their business, they have access to discounts on parts that you don’t have through wholesale markets.  You may actually be getting a discount on parts that you otherwise wouldn’t get.

Safety can be a major factor to consider before attempting to repair jobs on your own.  AC repair experts are knowledgeable and take safety precautions so that no one gets injured during a repair.  Not only do professionals practice safety during installation, but they are also guaranteed to get the job done right.  You don’t have to worry about possible gas or chemical leaks that can occur when you try to do a repair yourself.

AC Mistakes To Avoid

Here are some of the “bad” things you could do with your air conditioning as summer rolls into its hottest days of the year. Make sure that you’re avoiding these air conditioning mistakes that could cause you to need AC repair.

Not Changing the Air Conditioner’s Filter Regularly

Changing out your air conditioner’s filters is one of the easiest things you can do for maintaining your system. You don’t even need an AC repair serviceman to help you with that part. The general recommendation is to change out your air conditioning filters at least once every three months – or more if your unit is running nearly non-stop.

Forgetting or neglecting to change the filters can lead to poor air flow (increased AC energy usage), the freezing of the AC’s evaporator coil (requiring AC repair), and can shorten the lifespan of your unit. AC filters are relatively cheap and can help in reducing your AC bill, too.

Not Having Your AC Serviced Regularly (at Least Once a Year)

Having your air conditioning serviced at least once a year allows a professional AC technician go through all the checks and balances to make sure your unit is working efficiently and that nothing is broken down. Without a technician to help out, your unit might be running less efficiently (and costing you more money in the long run) or a component within your system is about to break which will cost even more in AC repair bills.

It’s worth taking the time to schedule an annual AC servicing so that a professional technician can make sure your entire unit is working effectively.

Setting Your Thermostat Too Low

Although it might feel great to set your thermostat really low during the summer, you can cut a small but notable amount off your air conditioning bill simply by raising the AC’s cooling temperature a couple of degrees. Often times the humidity is what bothers us more than the temperature, and running the AC can help to filter out the humidity in the home even if it’s “warmer” than you think you might normally like.

Spending Energy to Cool Rooms You Never Use

If you have rooms in your home that you’re not regularly using, you should close the vents to help the air conditioning system circulate the air into rooms you are using. Otherwise, you end up raising your AC bill just to cool a room nobody is actually in.

DIY vs Professional A/C Repair: Which Is Better?

Before taking on an HVAC repair job yourself, consider the risks.  If you feel it is out of your league, call the experienced professionals at Comfort Experts for peace of mind and a job well done.

Having an HVAC system that is running at its full capacity is an obvious plus for the average homeowner. While it is not necessary for a homeowner to know all the ins and outs of their HVAC system it can be helpful if they are able to do simple inspections in avoidance of home visits over minor issues. In the end, knowing how to check your AC system can save you valuable time and money. Here are some of the things to check prior to calling for an AC repair home visit:

Air Filter

A dirty filter will keep an HVAC system from performing properly. Also, the lack of air that is able to flow through the system will also negatively affect your utility bill. In an effort to lower your utility bill and keep from needing premature AC repair make sure to regularly replace your filters.

Thermostat

We commonly receive calls that could be handled by checking the thermostat. If all other options have been exhausted, make sure to check the thermostat hasn’t simply been switched to the opposite function desired. Often this can be overlooked, especially in homes with a multitude of people living under the same roof. Be sure someone didn’t accidentally change the setting from air conditioning to heating or vice versa.

Ice and Obstructions

When an AC unit begins building up ice, turn it off immediately. Then, search for anything that could be blocking the supply vents and filters. Clear the obstructions and test the system to see if it begins working properly again. If there were no obstructions, be sure to call a technician for AC repair and leave the system off in the meantime.

Power Supply

Some HVAC systems have a switch located near the unit that looks similar to a light switch that can be easily flipped off. Simply checking it when your home drastically changes temperatures can be a time and money saver. If that isn’t the issue, it could also be an issue with the circuit breaker. If a unit is located outside there may be a separate fuse for the disconnect switch. Always make sure to check the power sources because you may need to schedule a different kind of technician depending on what the issue is.

Pilot Light and Flash Codes

If the pilot light goes out for an older gas furnace the entire system will stop working. If you own one of these systems, make sure to check if the pilot light is still lit. Newer systems are thankfully a little more advanced and come with flash codes to help determine where the issue is. Be mindful of the fact that seeing a flash code doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a problem. The furnace panel will have the explanations of each code. Call a professional AC repair technician if the code explanation says anything about an operational issue.

Doing a few simple checks could save some time, but if issues are still occurring, don’t hesitate to call Comfort Experts for AC repair. That’s what we are here for.

Because AC repairs and a new air conditioning system can be extremely expensive, you need to expect those situations to occur. Just as with any other piece of mechanics, it will eventually go out. Even the best-made air conditioning units are going to eventually have issues and need repairs. If you have a little forward vision and begin to prepare, those eventual repairs will not be so hard on your budget.

Save A Little

This seems obvious, but most homeowners do not follow this step. Every month they deal with their bills and expenses as normal. Hopefully, they are also able to put away some of their hard-earned money into savings for a rainy day. Making sure that some money is put away every month can be very beneficial because if and when an expensive AC repair is needed, the money is there waiting.

Find a Company That Finances Large Purchases

It is becoming a normal feature for most AC repair companies to have some type of financing plan available when it comes to expensive repairs. Not all of them do, so make sure you are using a company that can be helpful when the time comes to make a large purchase. It may not be for years down the road, but sometimes the worst things happen at the most inopportune times. This feature can help you out if you are not able to save up enough money to cover the complete expenses of the repair.

Loan Yourself Money

Most people are not aware that their 401k programs may offer a loan program under hard financial circumstances. The great thing about using your 401k for an AC Repair is that when you are paying back your 401k, the interest you are being charged is actually being paid to you. So you are actually loaning yourself money and paying yourself interest in the use of that money. Not all 401k programs offer this and there are certain rules that you will need to look into, but this is a viable option if it is available to you.

Have a Low-Interest Credit Card

Because being a homeowner can come with a lot of unexpected circumstances, sometimes a low-interest credit card can cover those situations. We are talking about AC repairs, but other situations happen for homeowners and they cannot always be seen in advance. Having your low-interest credit card available for AC repairs can be a lifesaver because, after the expense, you can focus on paying it back quickly to cover any new circumstances that may arise.

Expect Situations to Arise

We all know that things break down and an air conditioner is no exception. Be prepared for any of your AC repair needs by using one of the things mentioned here or brainstorm on your own. Always be prepared and the unexpected situations will not be as serious as you would expect.

There are times you may notice that your air conditioner is not working as it should be, and a little TLC, such as a filter change or adjusting the thermostat, can correct the issue. While certain issues can be corrected on your own when it comes to AC repair, there are some that should not be handled by you or ignored for any length of time. Here are some of the signs that you should call for an AC repair as soon as you notice them.

Odd Noises Like Clanking and Ticking

When you hear odd noises that you cannot identify when your unit turns on, you should call in the AC repair experts right away. Even though strange sounds may only require a minor repair, when they are major, they can involve the electricity and be dangerous. Depending on the temperatures outside, you do not want to be in a home that isn’t able to get cooled properly when the AC goes out suddenly.

Excessive Water Buildup Around the Equipment

While a little condensation can be normal during certain times of the year, if you see excessive water build up around the AC unit, you will want to get the experts involved right away. The same goes for your water heater and other important pieces of equipment that help your household run smoothly.

No or Continuous Air Flow

If you get zero airflows, then you should get the problem addressed immediately by an AC repair technician. In the same vein, if the airflow never turns off, even when the system is set at a temperature where it should be resting, there is a problem that will need to be diagnosed by a professional. When you get a new installation or your unit is working in prime condition, then pay attention to how the airflow works so that you can detect this problem when it occurs.

Set Temperatures Are Not Being Reached

If you set temperatures and they are not being reached, you may only need a new thermostat to correct the problem. Not only can the problem be fixed with a new thermostat, but you will get to take advantage of the latest technology and this can help you save money and have more control over the comfort of your home. If a new thermostat doesn’t do the job, be sure to call the pros to look into other possible causes.

An Extremely High Energy Bill

If you notice your energy bill has taken a jump, you should have an AC repair technician come to see if the unit is the problem. In some cases, you will notice your energy bill gradually rise, while in others, you will see it happen quickly. Either way let the pros know so they can come to diagnose the issue, and if your unit is over ten years old, it may be time for new unit installation.

When you take immediate action when you notice an AC repair, you will not only create a safer environment, but you will prevent future issues from occurring.

AC repair can happen when we least expect it, and it is important that you don’t get caught off guard due to simple tasks that you could have done to prevent it. In fact, there are many things that you can do right now that will help keep your AC unit reliable and keep the AC repairs away. Think of it like eating healthy to prevent going to the doctor or flossing so that when you do see the dentist, only basic work needs to be done. Here are 5 jobs that you can do today so that you keep away AC repairs.

#1: Clean Around the Outside of Your Unit

Many people will forget that they need to give routine care to the outside of their unit. Especially if your AC system is tucked away outside or it is on the roof, you will find that this step is often skipped just because of the out of sight, out of mind mentality. When you change your filters, you should also do a visual inspection of the outside unit and remove vines and leaves and anything else that is in the way.

#2: Change Up Your Filter Routine

Even if you change your filter every thirty days, you should focus on the dirt and dander collected versus the timeframe. If the filter is clogged every time you change it, then try replacing it every three weeks to see if that makes a difference. Remember, you want the air to be able to flow through it, and if it can’t, even if for the last few days, you will have AC repair problems in the future. Things like pets and high-traffic homes will sometimes need to change their filter out more frequently.

#3: Keep Up with Dusting and Vacuuming

Reducing the amount of dust and dirt in your home isn’t just going to improve the quality of air in your home, but it keeps your air conditioning unit from working overtime. Your ductwork won’t get as dirty or clogged, and you won’t have to change your filter quite as much.

#4: Add AC Repair Prevention to the Choir Chart

When you have an AC repair choir chart for at-home maintenance, then it will be pretty hard to forget to get those tasks done. You can make this for yourself or for the whole family, and if you get the kids involved it will help them have good habits as they get older. Remember to put tips on there like closing doors to the outside behind you so that they are always visible.

#5: Invest in a New Thermostat

If you want to keep away AC repair, consider investing in a new thermostat. An older thermostat won’t have the capabilities that a new one will, and you’ll find that these help save you money on your energy bill and will provide alerts for maintenance. You will appreciate the ease of use and the fact that this is an affordable way to update your air conditioner.

Your air conditioner plays a vital role in your home’s comfort and functionality. It is very important that it is kept in top working order to make sure that it continues to play its role in cooling your home. If you are in need of AC repair, it’s very important to have the work performed as quickly as possible. Failing to do so will only lead to bigger problems in the future. Here are a few reasons why it’s so important to have your air conditioner fixed quickly.

Summer Heat

Most places in the United States experience some sort of heat during the summer months. The last thing you want is to be caught unprepared for dealing with the heat. If you wait until it’s too late, then you may be looking at a longer wait time to have repairs done because many people are experiencing problems in the summer. In a lot of states, such as Texas, being without air conditioning for even one day can make your life miserable. It’s best to have repair work completed as soon as the problem is noticed.

Entertaining Guests

If you are putting off AC repair services then consider the comfort of your guests. Not only will they be experiencing discomfort because of the temperature, but if your air conditioner is making unusually loud noises then that could be a source of annoyance for them.  Your air conditioner plays a role in many parts of your life, and it’s important to take all relevant factors into consideration.

Your Family

If you’re not the only person living in your home, then you will want to consider the comfort of everyone in your family. You do not want other members of your household to suffer because of a faulty air conditioner. It’s important to make sure that everybody that lives in your home is comfortable, including your pets. Pets have a layer of fur that will cause them to be hot if the temperature is too high in your home.

Financial Benefits

Having AC repair work performed may seem like a loss because of the initial cost of the work, but if you consider the long term effect that it will have, you will see that it is a good investment. A lower electricity bill alone is a great financial benefit of having the work done. You can also consider the increase in your property value and the positive impact that it will have on your ventilation system’s major benefits as well.

Having your air conditioner in top working order is very important, especially if you live in an area with hot summers. If you need to have AC repair work performed, call us today at Comfort Experts to learn how we can make your air conditioner the best that it can be. We have several years of experience in the industry and will be able to cater to your specific needs when having the repair work completed.

You can have your air conditioner serviced at any time of the year. No matter what your reason is for needing repair service, you can have it done at any time. There are some considerations to take into account when deciding on the timing of your repair. If you’re getting ready to sell your home, you will want to go ahead and have the service performed as soon as possible. If you’re having it done for your personal benefit, then consider these times of the year for your repair.

Spring

The spring may be the best time of year to have your AC repair performed. Having it done in the spring is good because you do not have to experience any of the unbearable summer months ahead with a poorly functioning air conditioner. You will also be able to see the results of the repair immediately and not have to wait several months to know whether or not the service worked. There are a lot of benefits to doing a repair in the spring, but you do not have to limit yourself to the spring alone.

Summer

If you’re in need of a repair during the summer months, it is important to go ahead and have the repair completed. Waiting for any longer can lead to bigger problems with your unit and cost you more money in the long run. Also, it can be dangerous for you and your pet’s health to be living in a house that is too hot. The effects may not be immediately noticeable but you can become fatigued and dehydrated very quickly if you do not have a way to escape the heat. This can lead to heat exhaustion and possibly even heat stroke in extreme conditions.

Fall and Winter

You will want to have an AC repair during the fall and winter in the instance that the heating component of your system is not working properly. The downside of having a repair in the cooler times of the year is that you won’t be able to know if the cooling system is working correctly. During the spring and summer, you are able to test the system to know if it is working properly. During the fall and winter, you are only able to test the heater. You will want to know if the cooling component is working because this has the greatest impact on your safety and health.

Having an AC repair is important for many reasons. No matter what time of year it is, you can have a service completed to fix any problems. There are advantages to having the service performed during the spring and summer, but you can absolutely have the repair performed during the fall and winter, as well. The main reason you want to have the work done in the spring and summer is so you’re able to test the unit, whereas in the fall and winter you will only know if the heater is functioning properly.