Tag: air conditioning

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AC HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Why is Your Air Conditioning Running All the Time?

Knowing how much AC is too much can be a challenge. There are normal explanations for an overactive air conditioning system, like when it’s hotter outside or when your thermostat is set too low. Still, an air conditioner that runs all the time can spike your electric bill and it might be a sign of a bigger issue with your HVAC system as a whole. Here’s everything you need to know about why your air conditioning might be running all the time.

Normal Causes

Before assuming something is wrong with your air conditioning, think about the very normal reasons this may be happening. Air conditioning typically runs more frequently during the spring and summer months when the difference between your thermostat and the outdoor temperature is at its highest. This causes the system to run for longer periods of time to reach your desired indoor temperature. However, you should still be able to hear your system turn off and on.

When it Becomes a Problem

There are some indicators that your AC is running too often. If you literally never hear your air conditioning turn off, this isn’t normal. Your AC should be turning off and on throughout the day, even if it’s running more often. 

If your electric bill spikes, your air conditioning might be using more electricity than normal to cool your home. This can indicate a problem in the system that makes it less energy efficient.

Lastly, if your system is running all the time but still isn’t cooling your home to meet the thermostat temperature, you should contact an HVAC repair team right away.

Reasons Your AC Might be Running All the Time

One possible cause of this problem is poor airflow. This can be caused by a dirty filter, blocked or closed vents, a poor motor, or leaks in the ductwork. You can test this by holding your hand to a vent. If you feel a weak stream of cold air, start by changing your filter and checking your vents for any blockages. If that doesn’t work, you should call an HVAC professional to repair your system.

Another cause could be a refrigerant leak. Refrigerants aren’t supposed to run out, so if your refrigerant is low it’s most likely a leak. An HVAC professional can fix a refrigerant leak for you.

Lastly, a constantly running AC system could be a symptom of an old HVAC system that needs to be replaced. The average HVAC system lasts approximately 15 years with regular maintenance. If your system is over ten years old and has to work harder and run longer to cool your home, it might be time to get a replacement.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs With Ellis AC

Whether you need HVAC maintenance, repairs, or a replacement, Ellis AC can help. Our experienced team of HVAC technicians are dedicated to giving you great customer service and affordable repairs that last. Call or visit our website to learn more about our residential and commercial HVAC services today!

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AC HVAC Tips and Advice

Your Guide to Finding the Right Window AC Unit

If you’re living in a space with no central air, a window AC unit is your best option to combat the summer heat. These small units are powerful enough to cool 100-300 square feet of your home, making them ideal for dorm rooms and studio apartments. They can also be used to cool rooms in your home that aren’t reached by your HVAC system.

With so many window AC units on the market, all with their own unique capabilities, finding the right model can be a challenge. Here’s our best advice on finding a window AC unit to fit your needs.

Look at Reviews

Compare different window AC unit models by looking at their reviews online. Home improvement store product pages and consumer report sites are a great place to start. See what customers and professionals have to say about different models and eliminate any that don’t meet your standards. Pay attention to performance details like reliability, maintenance, installation, and overall customer satisfaction. This is a great way to narrow down your list of potential units and eliminate any that don’t offer what you need.

Think About Size

Measure your window to determine your size limitations, and then find the square footage of the room you need to cool. Consider how much sun the room gets and think about whether or not you’ll be using tools like blackout curtains and fans to give your window AC unit a boost. These factors will all help you decide on the ideal BTU (British Thermal Unit) for your unit. You can easily plug your measurements into a free online BTU calculator for the most accurate estimate.

Energy Efficiency

Every window AC unit has its own energy-efficiency rating (EER), which is a ratio of its BTU to its power input in watts. High efficiency systems are better for the environment, and they’ll deliver stronger air conditioning with lower energy consumption. A high efficiency system is more expensive, but it’ll save you more money on your electric bill. Lower efficiency systems cost less upfront, but their higher energy consumption can add up over time. 

Installation

Most window AC units are easily installed by the customer, but not everybody is up to the challenge. Try to find tutorial videos and online guides for the system you’re considering and ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the process. You can look around for one with the most straightforward installation process, ask for help from family or friends, or consult an HVAC professional to install the unit for you.

Quality HVAC Services with Ellis AC

If you need HVAC repairs or maintenance, or help installing your own window AC unit, the talented HVAC technicians at Ellis AC are here to help. Our family-owned and operated business is dedicated to quality HVAC services, great prices, and client satisfaction. We work hard to inform our clients on what they can do to get the most out of their HVAC system, including answering any questions you may have about HVAC maintenance. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our HVAC services today!

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Your Fall HVAC Checklist

As we approach the end of summer, everyone is already preparing for the colder weather. Be sure to take care of your HVAC system by giving it the maintenance it needs before the seasons change. Spring and fall are also the perfect times to prepare your HVAC for winter, where it’ll be working its hardest to keep you comfortable and out of the cold. Weather changes are a stressful time for your HVAC, so follow this maintenance checklist to give it a boost.

Schedule an Inspection

Regular inspections are key to the health and longevity of your HVAC, and the shift from summer to fall is a great time to schedule one. Having a team of HVAC technicians check on the health of your system and notify you of any problems can improve its lifespan and give you peace of mind.

Upgrade Your Filters

If you’ve been neglecting to change the filters for your HVAC, air purifier, humidifier, or anything else, your indoor air quality could suffer. Take the time to change and even upgrade your filters before the seasons change.

Test Your Heater and Furnace

Don’t wait until the cold weather starts to turn your heaters/furnaces. Test them before the seasons change to make yourself aware of any problems that need to be fixed. If you encounter issues with your heaters or furnaces, schedule an appointment to have them inspected and repaired. 

Clean Air Conditioners

Your air conditioner condensate drain can build algae and mold over time, which can cause serious health issues for you and your family. This buildup can even cause clogs if it grows for too long, so give it a quick clean before fall comes around. Pour one cup of a 50/50 bleach and water mixture down your condensate drain for a thorough cleaning.

Boost Your Indoor Humidity

If you live in a dry climate, you should be taking measures to keep your indoor humidity up throughout the year. For areas with hot and humid summers, fall can dry out your air and cause health issues. Take steps to improve your indoor humidity with a humidifier, houseplants, or by leaving bowls of water near a heat source and allowing them to evaporate. 

Address Insulation Problems Now

If your insulation is damaged, old or outdated, your HVAC will have to work harder to keep your home warm. Poor insulation can spike your electric bill during winter, so take the time to replace and upgrade it if your system is struggling to combat outdoor temperatures. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times for you or a contractor to take care of insulation issues. 

HVAC Inspections and Maintenance With Ellis AC

Are you getting ready for the cold fall and winter months? Get the most out of your HVAC system during the cold seasons when you schedule inspections and maintenance with Ellis AC. Our experienced HVAC technicians always put quality service and client satisfaction first with thorough work and frequent updates. We strive to give you the best service at affordable prices. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our HVAC inspections, maintenance, and repairs!