Stay Cool and Comfortable: Premier Air Conditioning Services from Heat & Air Controllers
In the sweltering heat of summer, having a reliable air conditioning system isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Heat & Air Controllers is dedicated to ensuring that residents of Rockingham County enjoy a cool and comfortable indoor environment. Whether you need a new air conditioning installation, urgent repairs, or preventative maintenance, our team of certified professionals is here to provide top-notch service and expertise.
Comprehensive Air Conditioning Installation
Choosing the right air conditioning system for your home is crucial for both comfort and energy efficiency. Heat & Air Controllers offers a wide range of high-quality air conditioning units designed to meet the specific needs of your living space. Our experienced technicians will guide you through the selection process, helping you choose a system that fits your unique requirements and budget.
Installation is carried out with meticulous attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. We understand that a properly installed air conditioner not only cools your home more effectively but also operates more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills in the long run.
Reliable Repair Services
If your air conditioner stops working properly, it can quickly become unbearable, especially in the peak of summer. That’s why Heat & Air Controllers offers prompt and reliable repair services to get your system back up and running smoothly. Our skilled technicians can handle all types of AC issues, from simple fixes to complex problems. We use the latest tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve issues quickly, ensuring minimal disruption to your comfort.
Preventative Maintenance to Extend Lifespan
Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your air conditioning system and ensuring it runs efficiently. Our preventative maintenance services include comprehensive checks and adjustments to optimize performance. This not only helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during hot weather but also keeps your system running at peak efficiency, which can significantly reduce your cooling costs.
Maintenance services typically involve:
- Cleaning or replacing air filters to ensure optimal airflow and indoor air quality.
- Checking refrigerant levels and recharging if necessary to maintain efficient cooling.
- Inspecting and cleaning condenser coils and evaporator coils to prevent inefficient cooling patterns and potential repairs.
- Tightening electrical connections and measuring voltage and current on motors. Poor electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
Why Choose Heat & Air Controllers?
At Heat & Air Controllers, we are committed to providing the highest level of service and customer satisfaction. We pride ourselves on our reliability, expertise, and professionalism. Our team is fully licensed and insured, providing you with peace of mind that your air conditioning needs are being handled by qualified professionals.
Get Ready for the Heat
Don’t let the summer heat catch you unprepared. Whether you’re looking to install a new air conditioning system, need a timely repair, or want to schedule regular maintenance, Heat & Air Controllers has the expertise to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation. Let us help you beat the heat with our expert air conditioning solutions.
Beat the Heat: Common Air Conditioning Repairs in Eden, NC
When the scorching summer heat hits Eden, NC, a reliable air conditioning system becomes essential to everyday life. However, like any other mechanical system, AC units can encounter issues that require professional repairs. Let’s explore some of the most common air conditioning repairs for Heat & Air Controllers in Eden, NC. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, knowing these common AC problems will help you stay cool and comfortable all summer.
Blowing Hot Air? Check Your Refrigerant Levels
There’s nothing worse than feeling hot air coming out of your AC vents on a sweltering day. Low refrigerant levels can be the culprit behind this issue. A well-functioning refrigerant system is crucial in Eden, NC, where high temperatures are common. Regularly checking and maintaining proper refrigerant levels can help ensure that your AC blows cold air consistently.
Loud and Clanky? Time for Fan Motor Repair
Is your air conditioner making unusual noises, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds? These noises can indicate a problem with your fan motor. A malfunctioning fan motor disrupts your comfort and can lead to further damage if left unaddressed. Contact a professional HVAC technician in Eden, NC, to diagnose and repair the issue before it escalates.
The Silent Culprit Behind Inefficient Cooling
A dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of inefficient cooling in AC systems. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate in the filters, obstructing airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. Regularly cleaning or replacing your filters is a simple yet effective way to prevent unnecessary strain on your air conditioning unit and ensure optimal cooling performance.
Leaking Refrigerant? Time to Seal the Deal
If you notice puddles of water near your AC unit or ice forming on the refrigerant lines, you may have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks hamper your AC’s ability to cool effectively and pose environmental and health risks. In Eden, NC, it’s essential to address refrigerant leaks promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safe operation of your air conditioning system.
Get Your Temperature Under Control!
Inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or a malfunctioning thermostat can throw off your indoor climate balance. If you’re experiencing thermostat issues, it’s time to have it inspected and repaired. A skilled HVAC technician can calibrate or replace your thermostat, restoring precise temperature control and improving your overall comfort in Eden, NC.
Staying cool during the summer months is a top priority for residents and businesses in Eden, NC. By understanding these common air conditioning repairs, the Heat & Air Controllers technicians are better prepared to tackle AC issues and ensure a comfortable living or working environment. Remember, professional HVAC services are essential to diagnose, repair, and maintain your air conditioning system effectively. Stay proactive, address repairs promptly, and beat the heat with a reliable AC system in Eden, NC.
Is it time to get a new A/C system in Eden, NC?
Is it time to replace your air conditioning system? As a homeowner, it’s important to know the signs that indicate when your system is no longer efficient and effective at keeping your home comfortable. But when you decide to replace your AC, you can take advantage of discounts and rebates on new systems.
So how do you know when it’s time to replace your air conditioning system? Here are some signs to look out for.
How Old is it?
The age of your AC system is one of the biggest indicators that it’s time for a replacement. Most systems have a lifespan of around 10-15 years, so if your system is approaching or exceeding that age, it’s likely time to start thinking about a replacement.
Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself constantly calling for AC repairs and paying for costly parts, it may be more cost-effective to replace your system. A new AC unit can save you money on frequent repairs and energy bills in the long run.
Increased Energy Bills
If your energy bills have been steadily increasing and you’re not sure why, it could be due to an inefficient air conditioning system. A new, energy-efficient AC unit can save you money on your monthly energy bills.
Uneven Cooling
If you notice that some rooms in your home are significantly cooler than others, it could be a sign that your AC system is struggling to keep up with demand. A new system can help provide more even and consistent cooling throughout your home.
Now, when you do decide it’s time to replace your air conditioning system, you may be able to take advantage of potential discounts and rebates. Here are some options to consider.
Rebates
Many AC manufacturers offer rebates on new systems. These rebates can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the system and the manufacturer. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to see if they’re currently offering any rebates on their systems.
Energy Company Refunds
Some energy companies offer rebates for customers who upgrade to more energy-efficient systems. These rebates can vary by location, so be sure to check with your local energy company to see if they offer any rebates.
Contractor Discounts
HVAC contractors may offer discounts on new systems if you’re a repeat customer or if you purchase the system during a slower season. Be sure to ask your contractor if they offer any discounts on new systems.
In addition to potential discounts and rebates, a new air conditioning system can also provide numerous benefits for your home and family. A new system can improve indoor air quality, provide even more cooling throughout your home, and save you money on monthly energy bills.
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your air conditioning system or if you’re interested in taking advantage of potential discounts and rebates on new systems, be sure to contact trusted HVAC contractors for a professional assessment and recommendation. The technicians at Heat & Air Controllers can help guide you through the process and provide you with the best options for your specific needs.
When to Schedule a Tune Up?
With the winter season gone, it’s a good time to begin preparing your air conditioner for summer. If you ran regular maintenance on your HVAC equipment and did not have any breakdowns last summer, it is most likely safe to turn on your air conditioning once or twice during the summer time. However, you should have your system checked by a professional contractor in order to prevent any unintended breakdowns.
Changing your Air Filters
Usually during a maintenance visit the unit is cleaned and the filters are changed. If you have a central heating and air-conditioning system, the same filters work for both the heating and the cooling. They are used to knock outs dirt, dust, and debris from the air inside your home. It is important to have these changed regularly in order to keep the air inside your home clean and to prevent extra strain on your air conditioning system.
The kind of filter you’re using will determine whether you need to change your filters as often. In general, pleated air filters should be replaced every 90 days. Low-maintenance, throwaway fiberglass filters should be replaced every 30 days.
Damaged or clogged equipment in an HVAC can cost a significant amount of money to repair or replace. Changing air filters is a great way to increase the life expectancy of your machine.
Cleaning of your Air Conditioner Unit
The outside unit, whether the device is a heat pump, a condensing unit, or a package unit, activates when in cooling mode for the summer. It is essential that the area surrounding your equipment is free from debris, lawn clippings, or trash. Such obstructions may prevent the system from functioning effectively. Possibly the most important element of a heat pump is its compressor. These are large machines that work by compressing refrigerant. The refrigerant flows through pipes to cool your home.
Organic matter, such as dust, grass, and leaves can accumulate in and around your unit. This matter can hold and bread bacteria that can find their way inside your home if left in the vicinity. Leave at least a foot and a half clearance around your outside unit to secure the area, and make sure to have your unit cleaned regularly.
Steps to check your unit
It is crucial to prepare air conditioning equipment for the summer just like you’re preparing your vehicle for a long trip.
The following steps will help you determine if your AC is really ready for summer:
-Turn on the system in AC mode and allow it to run for 15 minutes.
-Put a thermometer in the supply register vent, which is pushing cool air into the room.
-Choose a vent close to the unit.
-Hold the thermometer there for 4-5 minutes, note the temperature.
-Find the nearest return vent, which is drawing air from the room, leave the thermometer there for another 4-5 minutes, note the temperature.
-The temperature from the supply vent should be 14 to 20 degrees cooler than the return vent.
Technicians deal with an entire checklist to prepare your system for summer, including checking your connections and the operation of the condenser coil, compressor, condenser fan motor, and refrigerant. Such as if you hear a humming sound from your unit’s compressor, the humming noise is probably caused by the fan motor. If so, it should be replaced.
By scheduling a tune-up ahead of the soaring temperatures, you are more likely to avoid an emergency service call during the hottest days of summer.
Contact Us Now, Your local experts at Heat & Air Controllers will ensure your Air Conditioner will keep your family cool all summer long!
Is My Air Conditioner Ready for Summer in Summerfield, NC?
It is never too early to make sure your air conditioner is up to the task of handling those hot and humid summer days. You can start by scheduling a spring preventative maintenance with your trusted HVAC contractor before the temperature soars.
Once the hot weather hits, most service companies fill their schedule quickly and customers without any AC become the priority. Having your equipment serviced in the spring will give you peace of mind when you turn the thermostat to cool.
As a homeowner, there are a few things you can do now, while waiting for your maintenance appointment. Click here to learn more about Heat & Air Controller’s Pre-paid Planned Maintenance Program.
Change Your Air Filter in Summerfield, NC
If you have a central heating and air-conditioning system, the same filter or filters work for the heating and the cooling. The filter(s) clean out all the debris, dust, and allergens from the air circulating throughout your house.
Depending upon which type of filter you are using, depends on how often your filters should be replaced. As a general rule, pleated air filters should be replaced every 90 days. Low-cost, throw-away fiberglass filters should be changed out every 30 days.
Clogged filters can lead to expensive breakdowns. Changing the air filters is an easy way to increase the efficiency of your equipment.
Summerfield Residents—Keep the Area Around the Condenser Clean
The outside unit, whether it is a heat pump, condensing unit, or a package unit engages when in cooling mode for the summer. It is important to keep the surrounding area free from debris, lawn clippings, or trash. Such items can restrict air from circulating into your system, which can damage your equipment.
Also, lawn clippings, weeds, and leaves contain organic matter which hold bacteria. If left around your unit, the bacteria can infiltrate the air circulating throughout your home. Keep at least one foot clearance surrounding your outdoor unit to avoid any issues.
If you see branches, sticks, or debris inside the unit call a professional service contractor to remove it.
How to Determine if Your Air Conditioner is Ready For Summer in Summerfield, NC
It is important to prepare your equipment for summer use, much like you would service your automobile before an extended vacation.
The following steps will help you determine if your AC is really ready for summer:
- Turn on the system in AC mode and allow it to run for 15 minutes.
- Put a thermometer in the supply register vent, which is pushing cool air into the room.
- Choose a vent close to the unit.
- Hold the thermometer there for 4-5 minutes, note the temperature.
- Find the nearest return vent, which is drawing air from the room, leave the thermometer there for another 4-5 minutes, note the temperature.
- The temperature from the supply vent should be 14 to 20 degrees cooler than the return vent.
If it is not, you should schedule a service appointment with your local HVAC contractor. Heat & Air Controllers is here to help and answer any questions you may have about your air conditioning system.
Service technicians cover an entire checklist of items to prepare your system for summer including, checking all connections, the condenser coil, compressor, condenser fan motor, and refrigerant levels.
By scheduling a tune-up ahead of the soaring temperatures, you are more likely to avoid an emergency service call during the hottest days of summer.
Contact Us Now, Your local experts at Heat & Air Controllers will ensure your Air Conditioner will keep your family cool all summer long!
5 Benefits of a Maintenance Agreement in Eden, NC
Your home heating and air-conditioning system is very similar to your automobile. You would never consider driving your car for thousands and thousands of miles without some sort of tune-up or maintenance on the engine.
Well, the equipment for your heating and air-conditioning system, regardless of what type of system you have, needs periodic maintenance too. Most equipment manufactures require proof of regular maintenance to validate warranty for any parts.
All reputable HVAC contractors offer some sort of maintenance plan, here are the benefits and what you should look for when shopping for a maintenance agreement.
Maintenance prevents breakdowns in your Eden home
Research indicates regular HVAC maintenance can reduce the risk of costly breakdowns by as much as 95%. Many contractors refer to their maintenance plans as “preventative or planned maintenance agreements.”
A maintenance visit is designed to “prevent” emergency breakdowns by catching a problem before it presents itself. A few of the ways a technician checks for potential issues include, meter voltage, amperage, check wiring, and measure sub-cooling temperatures.
Most contractors have a “checklist” you can peruse and familiarize yourself with exactly what a technician does during a maintenance visit.
Increase the life expectancy of your HVAC system in Eden, NC
Equipment manufacturers expect homeowners to keep the system in good working condition because it will save them money in the long run. No one wants to pay for an untimely replacement installation.
By scheduling a routine maintenance at least annually, if not twice a year, helps keep components lubricated; wearable items such as capacitors and contactors replaced; and the filters changed. As a result, you will increase the life of the equipment. Similar to regular oil changes increase the life of your car, maintenance can increase the life of your HVAC system.
Heat & Air Controllers provides you “Priority Service”
Even regular maintenance cannot prevent all repair scenarios and unexpected breakdowns can happen, but as a “prepaid planned” maintenance agreement customer, you will receive priority service from Heat & Air Controllers in Eden, NC.
Priority service means, you get your air conditioning or heating system serviced before someone else who “Googled” and called the contractor.
As a “pre-planned maintenance customer,” you will be guaranteed SAME-DAY SERVICE if you call in before 10:00 am. Consistent yearly inspections by Heat & Air Controllers will build a relationship with your local technician, so he or she can be more familiar with your particular HVAC system or systems.
Discounts on repairs
Despite a technician’s best efforts, some repairs may be needed from time to time. Mechanical systems are prone to failure and wearable components will need to be replaced, however, if you are a prepaid planned maintenance agreement customer, you will receive a discount on any needed repairs.
Heat & Air Controllers offers a 10% discount on repairs, including after-hours service calls.
Click here to find out all the benefits of being a Prepaid Planned Maintenance Customer.
During a maintenance visit, a technician should not only inspect your equipment, but also examine your duct work. The duct work which carries the air throughout your home is just as important as the equipment pumping the air. Checking for damage, loose tape, and proper connections should also be something a homeowner can check periodically as well.
Schedule your Planned Maintenance Visit Now.
Lower utility bills in Eden, NC
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a routine preventative maintenance plan can save you up to 30% on your annual energy bill. Keeping the equipment in good working condition ensures you system is running at peak efficiency. A thorough heating maintenance helps safeguard your family against the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The most common cause of carbon monoxide leaks comes from a cracked or failed heat exchanger. When conducting a heating preventative maintenance, a technician will check for these cracks or any leaks which could be a potential hazard.
Investing in a Prepaid Planned Maintenance Agreement from Heat & Air Controllers will give you the peace of mind that your system is operating at peak performance. And if something does go wrong, you can trust Heat & Air Controllers to take care of your needs in a timely and professional manner.
The Phase-Out of R-22 Refrigerant
R-22 refrigerant was for many years a commonly used refrigerant in air conditioners and heat pumps. It is a compound that includes chlorine and fluorine, both of which can potentially deplete the ozone layer and contribute to the enhancement of the Greenhouse Effect, resulting in negative impacts on our planet.
In 1987, the internationally accepted and universally ratified treaty, The Montreal Protocol, was written to phase out substances known to contribute to ozone depletion. As a party in accord with the treaty, the United States, and the EPA in particular, implemented a plan to phase out the use of R-22, setting a date of January 2020 as its deadline. After this date, all R-22 was banned, making it illegal to import or to manufacture this refrigerant in the United States.
Prior to this date, there were exceptions for the use of R-22. While the EPA began scaling back and limiting the production of R-22, it allowed the continued use of this refrigerant in existing HVAC systems using R-22. Typically this occurred when HVAC systems experienced refrigerant leaks or required substantial repairs to the refrigerant mechanisms. Now that production has been discontinued, the cost of available R-22 continues to rise, causing the costs of repairs to rise along with it.
Exercise Caution with R-22 “Substitutes”
While existing R-22 systems are aging, there are still many that are operational today and facing the dilemma of a dwindling R-22 supply to sustain them. In response to continued demand for R-22 following its phase-out mandated by the EPA, some refrigerant manufacturers have introduced products promoted to replace R-22, such as R404a, R407c, R438a, and R453a.
There are problems regarding the new replacement refrigerants, however, not the least of which is that many manufacturers do not support the use of these products in their equipment. In addition, our company is seeing a rise in the number of systems with contaminated or “mixed” refrigerant, which can potentially cause damage to the system’s operation. Often touted as safe, some other service companies are using the replacement refrigerants as a “drop-ins”, mixing new refrigerant into existing R-22. To introduce a new refrigerant, it is critical to first fully recover and then properly evacuate the existing R-22 before the replacement refrigerant is added. Also, it is important to understand that the refrigerant controls designed for R-22 may not work properly with the replacement refrigerant, so often the controls must also be changed out, adding to the repair cost substantially.
The highly trained personnel at Heat & Air Controllers are recovering more and more mixed refrigerant because a prior service company “dropped-in” the less expensive refrigerant, some even still charging for the more expensive R-22. Homeowners often do not know that the substitution has been made until they begin experiencing other refrigerant-related failures. Costs to repair systems with mixed refrigerant is quite prohibitive and often is not possible.
The “drop-in” method is also causing environmental issues since there is no way to “clean” and re-use mixed refrigerant. Our industry is faced with the additional operational cost of having to pay for mixed refrigerant disposal. Consulting with experts such as Heat & Air Controllers can provide assurance that no cross contamination occurs when refrigerant repairs are conducted, and those same experts are glad to consult with homeowners about the facts of their recommended repairs.
Breakdowns: Considering Costly R-22 Repairs versus Replacement
Homeowners and business owners alike who have aging air conditioners or heat pumps can be faced with a difficult decision when repairs are required. Since the cost of R-22 is on the rise and the availability of R-22 is on the decline, the costs for refrigerant repairs will continue to rise over time, probably at a staggering rate. For older systems, it could be very informative to consider the cost of repairs requiring R-22 versus the cost of replacing the equipment. The experts at Heat & Air Controllers can provide the information needed to make the best decision possible to maintain your home or office comfort.
Before experiencing breakdowns during the uncomfortable heat and humidity of summer, consider discussion with the experts at Heat & Air Controllers regarding the best long-term plan for your air conditioner or heat pump using R-22. While the system is operational, some things to consider include the following:
• Age of existing R-22 system
• Recent Repair Costs and Potential Future Repair Costs
• Energy Costs
• Manufacturer rebates or incentives on new equipment
• Manufacturer extended part warranties
• Heat & Air Controllers’ extended labor warranty
• Heat & Air Controllers’ FREE Prepaid Planned Maintenance for 3 years
Being proactive in discussion with the experts at Heat & Air Controllers about the possibility of replacing your old R-22 system before costly repairs become critical or necessary allows sufficient time to make a decision without the pressure of no air conditioning during peak season. Remember, failures that require replacement during the middle of summer are also impacted by the following:
• Contractor Schedules – High demand during the summer can mean delays in scheduling date of replacement.
• Manufacturer Availability – High demand during the summer can mean long waits for equipment to ship. At times, the equipment selected could be out of stock for long periods of time, limiting choices.
• Scheduling delays and Equipment delays can mean days without air conditioning.Regardless of the nature of your R-22 refrigerant repair strategy (repair vs replace), Heat & Air Controllers has the staff and the experience to help you make the best decision for your home and office comfort needs. We look forward to hearing from you!
Should I Sign Up for a Maintenance Agreement Rockingham County?
You’ve heard the commercials and seen the advertisements. You might have even heard the spiel when you had your air conditioner repaired. Or maybe you just purchased a new air conditioner and heard it then. You know what I’m talking about…. The one where you feel the heating and air company is trying to sell you something and get you to commit to a regular maintenance schedule. The HVAC technician probably told you that regular maintenance extends the life of your air conditioning system. That it cuts down on unnecessary wear and tear and the frequency of service calls to repair your unit. Is it all a ploy to get you to spend more money or is it actually important to do regular maintenance?
Maintenance agreements are very important to the care, longevity, and efficiency of your home’s heating and air conditioning system. Consumers are constantly bombarded with offers to purchase extra services, extend contracts and warranties, and spend more money on their homes and personal property. Some of these offers are worthwhile and will ultimately save the homeowner time and money. A prepaid planned maintenance agreement with your Heat & Air Controllers is worthwhile and will benefit you and your HVAC system.
What are the Benefits to a Prepaid Planned Maintenance Agreement for Eden and Reidsville homeowners?
Your Heating and Air System
First and foremost the most important benefit to a maintenance agreement is to the HVAC system itself. A maintenance agreement includes two annual inspections: the first inspection is for your air conditioner and typically takes place in the spring. The second inspection occurs before heating season, during which your certified technician from Heat & Air Controllers makes sure your heating system in ready for winter.
During these inspections, we will ensure that your system is clean and working efficiently. It is vital that your outdoor coil on your A/C is cleaned annually to ensure its best performance. The system will operate more efficiently and reduce wear and tear on the system’s compents. Keeping your unit clean is the first step in maintaining your unit and maximizing its efficiency. If your system isn’t operating at its peak efficiency, our technician will be able to diagnose the problem and potentially prevent costly and inconvenient repairs.
Priority Service When You Need It
Summer is a busy time for HVAC companies in Rockingham County. If your HVAC unit is going to stop working, it’s probably going to quit on you at the worst time…..during the middle of summer! If you’ve ever had this happen, you’ll appreciate the added benefit of priority service. Priority service is just what the name implies. If you have a prepaid planned maintenance agreement with Heat & Air Controllers, you get to cut in line and receive service faster.
It Saves You Money
When there is a problem with your A/C system and a repair is necessary, a maintenance agreement will give you a discounted price on repairs. Not only will the service agreement decrease the frequency of repairs, but it will save you money when the time comes to make a repair.
Also, an inefficient HVAC system can increase your utility bills. so when your HVAC technician tells you that your system is running efficiently, you can rest assured that you are not spending unnecessary money on your utility bills. Here are more benefits to having an annual planned maintenance agreement with Heat & Air Controllers
Don’t Void Your Warranty
If you have a manufacturer’s warranty on your unit, keep in mind that failing to keep to a regular maintenance schedule could void your warranty. HVAC units need proper care by a licensed professional. If you don’t hold up your end of the bargain and keep to a regular maintenance schedule, you may find that the warranty is no longer valid.
For more information on our prepaid planned maintenance contact us!
Air Conditioning Options for Old Houses
Old homes and modern air conditioning seem to contrast, but there are options!
When renovating an older home for modern living, adding modern conveniences can prove challenging. A prime example is an air conditioning system.
Aside from overcoming ductwork challenges and figuring out how to upgrade HVAC systems without harming the charm of your old Buckhead home, experts have to face numerous obstacles.
That notwithstanding, air conditioning options do exist for old houses. There are a couple of things to consider before embarking on the project. These tips are provided by Derek Dawson of Dawson Property Management, who has experienced this issue many times during his career.
- You may need a larger electrical supply. Modern HVAC systems will overpower a home that’s equipped with a 110-V service.
- You can do without ducts. Believe or not, modern HVAC systems can operate without ducts. Whether you use high-velocity equipment or unobtrusive ductless systems, contractors can keep ductwork to a minimum.
- Proper sizing is crucial. During installation, much of the project’s success depends on how well your contractor has sized the system. Big systems will create challenges when it comes to humidity control, and small systems may end up over-working and having a shorter life-span.
- Your contractor must be creative. Older homes were built before modern HVAC existed. Thus, you’ll need contractors that can get around the challenges posed.
With that in mind, now let’s look at the air conditioning options available for older houses.
High Velocity Systems
A high-velocity, mini-duct HVAC system can bring an old house up-to-date with minimal damage to its historic fabric. Some of the benefits that these high velocity systems provide include:
- Flexible installations. A high velocity system uses small outlets designed to mesh with the current home’s aesthetic. This means that you don’t have to drill any holes or worry about streaks and stains left behind from metal ducts.
- Less draft. High velocity systems use suction to cool a room. Therefore, unlike traditional systems, heating and cooling tend to be less drafty.
- Few alterations. High velocity HVAC systems use flexible ducts that can be installed anywhere.
Ductless Mini Splits
A ductless mini-split air conditioner works like a regular central air conditioner but without the ducts. Like central systems, mini splits have two main components: an indoor air-handling unit, and an outdoor compressor/condenser.
There are many benefits to choosing a ductless mini-split system for your home. They include:
- Air quality improvement. By choosing a ductless option, you can eliminate a substantial number of particles in the air that affect your home’s air quality.
- Ductless options require little installation. Ductless air conditioners take significantly less time to install and require little modification to your home. On the other hand, large duct options require significant upheaval in your home, impeding your daily routine.
- Silent operation. Major parts of a ductless air conditioner unit are placed on the exterior of your home. As such, they won’t distract your ability to relax or work at home.
- Better for the environment. Each component uses significantly less energy than their more traditional counterparts.
VRF Systems
VRF stands for variable refrigerant flow. It works by simultaneously cooling and heating different zones in a building. They are one of the best modern air conditioning options for old houses.
Here are some of the benefits of VRF systems:
- Fewer breakdowns. Inarguably, one of the big benefits of a VRF system is they tend to break down less frequently.
- State of the art controls and smart technology. You can actually use your mobile device to set temperature settings in different zones.
- Heat and cool simultaneously for zoned heating and cooling. VRF systems capture heat recovered from the cooling process and can redistribute this excess heat to an area that requires heat.
- Installation flexibility. Water pumps, hefty pipes to circulate fluids and distribution fans aren’t required for its operation. Essentially, there’s no need to tie up space for a large maintenance room or service shaft.
- Energy efficiency. A VRF system is able to capture heat as part of the cooling process and channel it to other locations in the building, which may need heating.
It’s now easier to retrofit older homes with increasingly compact air conditioning systems. With these three options, you can renovate your older home for modern living without spoiling the character of your charming old house.
If you have further questions please reach out through our website or simply give us a call at (336)627-4989.
3 Things to Know About your HVAC When You Move into a New Home
After months of searching, you’ve finally found and purchased the perfect home. While buying a home is an exciting venture, it can also be quite the headache, particularly when you consider all the work you need to do to make your home as perfect as possible.
Somewhere between closing the paperwork and booking your North Carolina moving company, it’s easy to forget all about one of the most important features of your new property – your HVAC system. In fact, whether you’re buying your first home, or you’re just moving somewhere new, your HVAC system is one of the most important parts of enjoying a comfortable life in your new neighborhood. Here are a few things you’ll need to know before you’re ready to settle in.
1. Learn What Your HVAC System Includes
The first thing you need to do is find out as early as possible what’s included in your HVAC system, including the age of every part of your system. Ask for documentation from the previous homeowner and call an experienced HVAC contractor to come and inspect the equipment. An HVAC professional will be able to give you a rundown of the system and provide insights into what you need to do to keep it running smoothly.
HVAC experts can also answer any questions you might have about your new HVAC system, and provide you with an insight into how much longer the solution is likely to last. Remember, older systems don’t necessarily need to be replaced straight away, but they may be more prone to issues.
2. Know How the Thermostat Works
While figuring out how your thermostat worked in the past might have been a breeze, the advent of new technology and air conditioning systems means that there’s countless different types of residential heating and cooling solutions available to choose from today. To make sure that you can take full advantage of your HVAC system when you move in, ensure you know how to use it.
If your thermostat isn’t programmable, then you might want to make an upgrade after you’ve purchased your home. Programmable thermostats can save you a lot of money in the long-term by helping you to make your home more energy efficient.
3. Remember to Replace the Filter
Finally, one of the most important things you can do after you buy your new home is replace your filter. Replacing a filter is very simple to do, and it’s a great way to boot the efficiency of your system from day one. It’s not like replacing a roof, or changing the carpet in your living room, replacing a filter can take seconds – but most previous homeowners will forget to do it for you.
Remember, even if you buy a brand-new home, it’s best to replace the filter as quickly as possible, as there could be dust and debris in the system from the construction. Remember, simple things like replacing the filter, and accessing the help of a local HVAC team can help to improve your home comfort for years to come.