AC Archives - Elevated Comfort

The Significance of Upgrading Your Home with a New AC Installation

Written by Elevated Comfort on April 15, 2024. Posted in AC, AC Replacement. No Comments on The Significance of Upgrading Your Home with a New AC Installation

TL;DR: Upgrading your home AC system brings energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, and increased home value. Signs you need an upgrade include inadequate cooling, frequent repairs, and an old unit. Choose the right size and type of system based on your home’s needs. Professional installation and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and avoiding risks like inadequate airflow, refrigerant leaks, electrical faults, and non-compliance with building codes. Contact Elevated Comfort for a hassle-free upgrade and enjoy a comfortable, efficient home environment with significant savings.

Ensuring your AC unit operates effectively isn’t just about keeping your home cool. It’s about enhancing the quality of your living space and guaranteeing energy efficiency.

Whether you’re dealing with a split system that distributes air through ductwork or a more compact ductless unit perfect for homes without existing ductwork, upgrading your home with a new AC installation can help. This guide will go over the benefits of upgrading your home AC system, how to choose the most suitable option for your needs, and the importance of professional installation and routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Ready to elevate your home’s HVAC system? Then, let’s dive right in!

Recognizing the Signs Your AC Needs Upgrading

When it comes to the comfort of your home, your AC unit plays a crucial role. However, it has its lifespan and performance indicators. Here are key signs that your AC needs an upgrade:

Inadequate Cooling. If your home isn’t cool enough, it might be due to a poorly maintained HVAC system or an improperly sized unit. Regular maintenance often resolves minor issues, but a persistently underperforming unit may need replacement.
Frequent Repairs. Regular calls to an HVAC technician signal a deeper problem. Compare the cost of ongoing repairs with the price of a new, more efficient unit. Newer models with higher SEER ratings can significantly reduce your expenses, so keep that in mind.
Age and Efficiency. Air conditioners typically last around 15 years. If yours is over a decade old, upgrading can enhance energy efficiency, leading to savings of 20% to 40% on energy costs. Plus, newer models use eco-friendly refrigerants, contributing to environmental conservation.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Home AC System

Upgrading your home AC system brings a plethora of benefits that extend beyond mere cooling. Let’s dive into why making the switch to a modern, energy-efficient air conditioner is a cool decision for both your wallet and comfort:

Energy Efficiency and Savings

Thanks to higher SEER ratings, purchasing a new, more energy-efficient model can save you up to 38% on utility bills and 7.8% on energy consumption. Today’s AC units aren’t just about cooling, but they also operate without producing too much noise.

Improved Indoor Air Quality and Comfort

Thanks to upgraded filters and air purifiers, new models improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants, allergens, and even microscopic organisms. Variable-speed fans and smart thermostats ensure your home remains at your preferred temperature, eliminating hot or cold spots and maintaining optimal humidity levels.

Increased Home Value and Durability

High-efficiency models operate more efficiently, reducing wear and tear and potentially doubling the lifespan of your AC unit. Embracing a high-efficiency AC system is a positive upgrade but also a smart investment in your home’s future, promising savings, comfort, and peace of mind.

Choosing the Ideal AC System for Your Home

Deciding which is the right AC system for your home doesn’t need to be a chore. Here’s a straightforward approach to ensure you make an informed decision:

Proper Sizing

The perfect fit is crucial. A system that’s too big won’t get rid of the humidity in your household due to frequent repetitive on-and-off cycles. If it happens to be too small, it’ll be running non-stop, increasing wear and tear.

Take into account your home’s square footage, climate, number of windows, insulation quality, ceiling height, and even the amount of sunlight your home receives.

Types of AC Systems

Once you have determined the most suitable size for a new AC unit in your home, let’s explore what different types of AC systems you can choose from:

Central Air Conditioning. Ideal for homes with existing ductwork. It includes an indoor coil and an outdoor condenser.
Ductless Systems. Perfect for homes without ducts. These systems consist of an outdoor condenser and indoor air handlers.
Heat Pumps. Offer both heating and cooling, functioning like an air conditioner in warmer months.

Maintenance Requirements

Upgrading your AC unit is like giving your home a high-tech makeover, ensuring it stays cool without breaking the bank. Let’s see how this upgrade can be a game-changer for both your comfort and wallet. Professionals measure, size, and ensure your system fits like a glove, boosting efficiency and extending your unit’s lifespan. Plus, they come with a magic shield – warranty protection that guards against future troubles.

Regular check-ups by a pro can spot sneaky issues before they turn into energy-gobbling monsters, keeping your system running smoothly and saving you money.

Incorporating these elements maximizes energy efficiency and turns your home into a haven of comfort and savings, making the upgrade process surprisingly fun and rewarding.

Understanding AC Functionality

Air conditioners recycle the air inside your home, not bringing in outdoor air. This means the quality of your indoor air largely depends on how clean your system is. The air filter in your HVAC system traps dust, pollen, and other allergens. However, it’s not a purifier. You must pay attention to these filters if you want them to keep the air as clean as possible.

Try to replace your air filters every three months. This simple step can significantly remove pollutants from your indoor air. Regular maintenance by HVAC professionals ensures your system operates efficiently, catching any potential issues before they compromise your air quality.

Inspecting and cleaning air ducts are crucial for preventing the accumulation of dust and allergens that can circulate through your home. By focusing on these areas, upgrading your AC unit becomes more than just a cooling upgrade but a commitment to a healthier, more comfortable home.

Risks of Avoiding Professional Installation and Maintenance

Attempting to engage in AC installation by yourself might seem like an adventure, but it’s one fraught with pitfalls that could turn your cool oasis into a sweltering nightmare.

Here are the potential risks of avoiding professional installation and maintenance when it comes to upgrading and installing your AC system:

Inadequate airflow leading to a stifling home environment
Refrigerant leaks turn your basement into a scene from a sci-fi movie
Faulty electrical connections that could spark unwanted fireworks
Non-compliance with building codes, inviting unwanted guests (inspectors) over

Remember, a professional doesn’t just install; they ensure your AC system is a perfect fit for your home, optimizing airflow and efficiency. They’re like the matchmakers of the HVAC world, pairing you with an AC unit that’s just right, ensuring years of comfortable, hassle-free cooling.

Conclusion

We navigated through the importance of recognizing when your AC unit cries for an upgrade, dissected the numerous benefits waiting on the other side of an upgrade, and decoded the process of selecting the right system for your haven.

This saga of ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency in your home highlights the vital role of professional installation and routine love, also known as maintenance, in guaranteeing that your home remains a serene retreat amidst the sweltering heat.

As we draw the curtains on this cooling escapade, let’s remember that upgrading your home with a new AC installation allows you to create a comfortable and efficient environment that guarantees a future with significant savings. So, don’t hesitate to contact Elevated Comfort today and breathe life into your AC unit!

The ABCs of AC Maintenance: Ensuring Optimal Functioning of Your Air Conditioning System

Written by Elevated Comfort on March 15, 2024. Posted in AC, AC Maintenance. No Comments on The ABCs of AC Maintenance: Ensuring Optimal Functioning of Your Air Conditioning System

TL;DR: AC maintenance boils down to understanding its components, performing routine checks, and addressing common issues. Focus on tasks like changing air filters (A), cleaning the outdoor unit (B), checking for leaks (C), inspecting ductwork (D), and cleaning evaporator coils (E). Consider switching to environmentally friendly coolants. Call professionals if you notice efficiency drops, strange noises, odors, or increased energy bills. Professional maintenance ensures safety, efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your AC unit.

When it comes to maintaining your air conditioning system, there are a few fundamental aspects you should be aware of. These include understanding the basic components of your system, knowing when and how to perform routine checks, and identifying common issues that may arise.

Sounds like too much to remember? It is when we put it in a technical vocabulary. We can, however, make the entire process of understanding everything you’ll ever need about AC maintenance easy to understand and remember. To that extent, we’ll cover the ABCs of AC maintenance, so you never wonder what exactly you need to do!

Understanding Your AC Unit

You already know that your AC needs maintenance. Still, you might not really understand what the point of it is, which components should be your priority, and how often you should have a professional AC maintenance service attend to your home AC system.

An AC unit primarily consists of two components: a condenser and an evaporator. The condenser unit further consists of three main parts: a compressor, the condenser fan, and assorted coils. You can locate this part of your AC in the outside unit part of the system. The evaporator is located in the indoor section of the unit, working in tandem with the condenser to make the cooling process possible.

These two aspects of AC maintenance require the most attention. While you can take care of some basic maintenance like filter cleaning and replacement yourself, most repairs need to be performed by expert service professionals.

Importance of Routine Checks

Routine checks are the secret to keeping your AC in tip-top shape. By conducting regular inspections, you can detect any pending issues before they become significant, preventing the need for costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns in the future.

Remember that if you neglect to perform routine maintenance, your AC system will operate at reduced capacity, resulting in higher energy bills and a potential complete system failure. Well-maintained units consume less energy, reducing your electricity bills.

Regular AC checks involve a thorough examination of your cooling system’s components, such as the condenser, evaporator coils, air filters, and refrigerant levels. These checks help guarantee that everything works as it’s supposed to, allowing your AC to operate at peak performance. Additionally, routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your AC unit, maximizing your investment.

Common AC Problems and Their Causes

Common problems with AC units range from uneven cooling and refrigerant leaks to thermostat issues and inadequate maintenance. Getting familiar with these problems can help you identify when your unit requires professional attention. Understanding the common AC problems and their causes is crucial in troubleshooting and preventing potential issues.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most frequently encountered problems:

Inadequate Cooling. One key AC-related problem to consider is the failure of your system to do its job – cool your space effectively. This can be due to different reasons, ranging from a dirty air filter to inadequate refrigerant levels to a malfunctioning compressor. When your AC struggles to maintain a comfortable temperature, it’s time for a check-up.
Strange Noises. Unusual noises coming from the unit are clear signs of an underlying issue with your AC. Buzzing, rattling, or grinding noises could be caused by loose components, worn-out belts, or debris stuck in the system. Never overlook these signs, as they might cause further significant damage.
Leaks. Water pooling around the air conditioning system is a major sign of malfunction. If you notice any moisture or detect refrigerant leaks, it’s vital to have experts inspect it immediately. Leaks diminish the cooling efficiency and are also potentially harmful to the environment.
Funny Smells. Foul odors emanating from your AC vents can be a sign of microbial growth or a clogged drain line. Mold or mildew can accumulate in the system, resulting in a musky odor or serious health hazards. Regular checks can help you detect these issues early and ensure your indoor air quality remains fresh and clean.

The ABCs of AC Maintenance

An easy way to remember how to take care of your AC is to simplify the priority of maintenance actions. To that extent, we’ll employ the ABCs of AC maintenance needed for the system to run efficiently:

A – Air Filter Replacement. Air filter replacement is one of the simplest yet most crucial AC maintenance tasks. Think of it as changing the oil in your car – it’s a quick job that can keep everything running smoothly. Regularly replacing your air filter can ensure cleaner indoor air and improved AC efficiency.

B – Brushing the Outdoor Unit. Regularly cleaning your outdoor AC unit can enhance its performance. The goal is to remove any debris that might have settled on the unit’s screens. Also, ensure that trees and bushes are trimmed around your unit, as anything within 2 feet can cause it to work harder than necessary.

C – Checking for Leaks. Inspect your air handler for any signs of leaks. If you notice water in the pan or any other signs of leakage, it could indicate a problem with your pipes or a refrigerant leak. In such a scenario, you need to enlist the help of a professional AC service.

D – Ductwork Inspection. A network of ducts delivers cooled air throughout your home. However, dust, debris, or leaks in these ducts can disrupt the performance of your AC. Regularly inspect your ductwork and get it cleaned or repaired as necessary.

E – Evaporator Coil Cleaning. The evaporator coil performs a crucial process for cooling your space by absorbing heat from the air. However, over time, these coils can collect different particles, like dust and dirt, resulting in a drop in their efficiency. Regular cleaning of the evaporator coils can ensure your AC continues to cool your home effectively.

F – Freon or Puron. Freon, a common refrigerant used in AC units, is being phased out due to its environmental impact. The replacement, often called Puron, is a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option. If your AC unit still uses Freon, consider switching to a unit that uses approved coolants.

When to Call a Professional

While regular maintenance can keep your AC unit in good shape, there are instances when you should call a professional. If you notice your AC isn’t cooling the space as efficiently as before, weird noise or smells coming from it, an increase in the energy bill, or a frequent on-off cycling of your AC, you need to call in the professionals.

Hiring a qualified technician offers several advantages:

Expertise and Experience. Professional technicians know the right techniques to inspect and pinpoint any AC problems and resolve them promptly. They can detect potential issues that may not be apparent to untrained eyes, ensuring your system operates optimally.
Safety and Efficiency. AC systems contain some potentially hazardous components, like refrigerants and electrical parts. By hiring expert services, you keep yourself safe from any risks and provide optimal care for your system.
Comprehensive Inspection. During a professional AC maintenance visit, professionals begin by thoroughly inspecting your entire system. They look for signs of leaks, clean the coils, and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments. This comprehensive approach is crucial in catching more minor problems early and stopping them from escalating into major ones.
Extended Lifespan. Regular professional maintenance extends the lifespan of your AC unit by a significant portion. Addressing minor issues as soon as possible helps keep your system in top condition, preventing premature breakdowns and costly replacements.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the ABCs of AC maintenance can help you keep your unit in top shape, ensuring a comfortable home environment during the hot summer months. Regular maintenance is also crucial in prolonging the lifespan of your AC unit and cutting your costs in the long run.

So, by remembering the ABCs of AC maintenance (and a few other letters we provided), you guarantee your unit will continue to serve you efficiently for years to come. All you need to do is visit Elevated Comfort’s website – professionals with over 30 years of experience in the field.

Reach out to us to schedule an inspection and we’ll perform all assorted maintenance and devise a customized maintenance plan for your home!

Discover How AC Maintenance Lowers Your Cooling Costs

Written by Elevated Comfort on March 1, 2024. Posted in AC, AC Maintenance, Air Quality. No Comments on Discover How AC Maintenance Lowers Your Cooling Costs

TL;DR: Neglecting air conditioner maintenance leads to higher cooling costs and increased CO2 emissions. Regular upkeep improves energy efficiency, prevents costly repairs, optimizes refrigerant levels, extends lifespan, enhances indoor air quality, and ensures safety. Professional maintenance is crucial for thorough inspections, adherence to manufacturer recommendations, and regulatory compliance. Although there’s an initial cost, long-term savings justify the investment. Don’t overlook maintenance; it’s essential for saving money and preserving your cooling system’s integrity.

Ineffective air conditioners contribute to the production of 2 million tons of CO2 discharge every year. Thus, air conditioning upkeep is important in ensuring the smooth and cost-effective operation of your cooling system.

Homeowners in the United States pay over $29 billion annually for air conditioning. However, the expenses may significantly rise if you don’t provide regular upkeep to your AC. Proper AC maintenance can reduce cooling expenses for many reasons, each helping you avoid dealing with bigger and more expensive problems with your system.

In this article, you’ll find out how AC maintenance lowers your cooling costs and prolongs the lifespan of your system. So, let’s dive right in!

Different Ways AC Maintenance Can Lower Cooling Costs

Orderly AC maintenance plays a vital part in lowering cooling costs in various ways. By ensuring that the system operates at its peak efficiency, maintenance helps improve energy-saving, preventing unnecessary energy consumption and reducing the cost of your bills.

Additionally, timely maintenance addresses smaller problems before they become bigger, ultimately saving on repair expenses. Proper maintenance also optimizes refrigerant levels, prolongs the apparatus’s longevity, and improves indoor air quality, all contributing to reduced cooling costs over time. Here’s how AC maintenance lowers your cooling costs and preserves the quality of your system:

Energy-Saving Benefits

One of the main advantages of regular AC maintenance is increased energy-saving. With regular usage, grime, filth, and dust can accumulate in the AC system, resulting in minimized airflow and excessive energy consumption.

Maintenance helps the system run more efficiently. This is the result of regularly changing the air filters, inspecting and cleaning coils, and ensuring the moving parts are accurately lubricated. Thus, it reduces the consumption of energy needed to make your home feel cooler.

Preventing Costly Repairs

Neglecting AC maintenance can result in the gradual deterioration of the system, leading to potential malfunctions or breakdowns. These issues often require costly repairs or part replacements, significantly adding to your cooling expenses.

Orderly maintenance, including detailed inspections and timely repairs, helps detect and resolve minor problems before they turn into bigger issues, ultimately saving you from expensive repair bills.

Optimizing Refrigerant Levels

Regulated refrigerant levels are vital for the improved functioning of an AC system. Over time, refrigerant can leak or become insufficient, leading to diminished cooling productivity and the expansion of energy expenditure.

During maintenance, repair technicians can inspect and restore refrigerant levels, guaranteeing an efficient operation of your system and reaching peak performance. This not only lowers energy costs but also prevents potential damage to the compressor, which is a significant expense to repair or replace.

Extending Apparatus Longevity

Regular maintenance significantly extends the longevity of your AC apparatus. This minimizes the need to spend money on replacing your old system.

Maintenance reduces the wear and tear on the system by ensuring that all parts are working at their best, ultimately prolonging its longevity. This means you can avoid the substantial cost of premature AC replacement.

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

Besides lowering cooling costs, AC maintenance also improves indoor air quality. Dust-free filters and coils, along with well-maintained ductwork, prevent the production of debris and other pollutants in your house. This creates a fresher indoor atmosphere but also ensures that the AC system operates efficiently, further reducing energy consumption and associated costs.

Improved Comfort and Performance

A well-maintained AC system provides more consistent and reliable cooling, leading to enhanced comfort in your living space.

By ensuring that your system operates at peak performance, maintenance helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without unnecessary energy expenditure. This results in a more enjoyable living atmosphere and, at the same time, minimizes cooling costs.

Enhanced System Safety

Regular AC maintenance also contributes to the safety of your cooling system. By identifying and addressing potential safety hazards such as electrical issues or mechanical failures, maintenance helps prevent dangerous situations that could lead to costly damages or even harm to occupants.

Ensuring the safe operation of your AC system through regular upkeep can ultimately save you from unexpected expenses related to emergency repairs or replacements. It also protects your and your family’s safety, providing peace of mind and confidence in the system’s operation.

The Importance of Professional Maintenance

When learning how AC maintenance lowers your cooling costs, you must also consider professional help. This is to ensure the maintenance process is carried out properly, using the right techniques that may extend the longevity of your system.

Expertise and Experience. Reputable maintenance services ensure that your AC system is serviced by technicians with the knowledge and hands-on practice to detect and resolve potential issues effectively. They perform thorough inspections and maintenance procedures that an untrained individual might overlook.
Comprehensive Inspection. Professional maintenance involves a comprehensive inspection of the entire AC system, including intricate components such as coils, motors, and electrical connections. This thorough assessment helps identify and rectify problems before they turn bigger, guaranteeing the best operation of your unit.
Manufacturer Recommendations. Professional technicians are well-versed in the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for maintaining specific AC models. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for preserving warranties and ensuring that maintenance is carried out in accordance with the system’s design and specifications.
Proper Tools and Equipment. Professional maintenance includes the usage of specific materials and appliances that are essential for conducting precise diagnostics and maintenance tasks. This ensures that the maintenance is carried out to the highest standard, contributing to the efficiency and longevity of your AC system.
Regulatory Compliance. Maintenance experts ensure that your AC system is maintained in compliance with industry regulations and standards. This not only secures the system’s safety and functionality but also offers you a sense of peacefulness, knowing that your unit is being serviced under established guidelines.
Tailored Maintenance Plans. Professional maintenance services often offer tailored maintenance plans based on the specific needs of your AC system. This personalized approach ensures that your unit receives the care it requires, leading to improved efficiency, reduced energy costs, and an extended lifespan.
Timely Service. Professional maintenance services often provide scheduled maintenance, ensuring that your AC system is serviced at regular intervals without you having to remember or schedule appointments.
Long-Term Cost Savings: While professional maintenance may involve an initial cost, the long-term savings in terms of reduced energy consumption, fewer repairs, and prolonged equipment lifespan far outweigh the investment. Professional maintenance is an investment in the long-lastingness and performance of your AC system.

Conclusion

Learning how AC maintenance lowers your cooling costs is essential to start taking proactive measures and properly managing your expenses. With this cost-effective approach, you’ll be able to save your money and the integrity of your cooling system.

Maintenance plays a crucial role in lowering your overall cooling costs by improving energy efficiency, preventing costly repairs, optimizing refrigerant levels, extending equipment lifespan, enhancing indoor air quality, improving comfort and performance, and ensuring system safety.

Therefore, investing in professional AC maintenance like the one offered by Elevated Comfort – professionals with over 20 years in the field not only saves you money in the long run but also promotes the efficient and reliable operation of your cooling system.

So, call us today and let us breathe life into your AC system!

FAQ

Why should I choose Elevated Comfort for AC maintenance?

Elevated Comfort offers over 20 years of expertise in the field, ensuring that your AC system is serviced by knowledgeable technicians who can effectively detect and resolve potential issues. Our comprehensive inspections and tailored maintenance plans guarantee the best operation of your unit, leading to improved efficiency, reduced energy costs, and an extended lifespan.

What makes professional maintenance by Elevated Comfort different?

Elevated Comfort’s professional maintenance goes beyond basic servicing. Our technicians are well-versed in manufacturer recommendations and industry standards, ensuring that your AC system is maintained in compliance with regulations. We use proper tools and equipment to conduct precise diagnostics and maintenance tasks, ensuring the highest standard of care for your unit.

How does Elevated Comfort help save costs in the long run?

While there may be an initial cost for professional maintenance, the long-term savings are significant. By improving energy efficiency, preventing costly repairs, and extending equipment lifespan, Elevated Comfort’s maintenance services lead to reduced energy consumption and fewer expenses on repairs. Investing in our maintenance plans is an investment in the long-lastingness and performance of your AC system.

What are the benefits of choosing Elevated Comfort for AC maintenance?

Choosing Elevated Comfort means you’re choosing enhanced indoor air quality, improved comfort and performance, and enhanced system safety. Our tailored maintenance plans ensure that your AC system receives the care it requires, leading to a fresher indoor atmosphere, consistent cooling, and peace of mind knowing that your unit is being serviced under established guidelines.

Improving Your Air Quality With Regular HVAC Maintenance

Written by Elevated Comfort on February 15, 2024. Posted in AC, AC Maintenance, Air Quality, HVAC, HVAC Maintenance, Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Improving Your Air Quality With Regular HVAC Maintenance

TL;DR: Indoor air quality is often overlooked but crucial for health. With most Californians exposed to harmful pollutants, maintaining HVAC systems is essential. Regular tasks like changing filters and cleaning ducts are vital for better air quality. Recognizing signs of poor air, like allergies or excessive dust, prompts action. Additional steps like using air purifiers and incorporating plants can help. Seeking professional help from HVAC experts like Elevated Comfort ensures thorough maintenance. Their “Grandma Mac Club” offers complimentary services twice a year, prioritizing consistent upkeep for healthier indoor environments.

You might not always think about the air you breathe inside your home or office, but it can affect your health without you realizing it. Results from recent air monitoring show that over 90% of Californians are exposed to harmful air pollutants, so air quality surely deserves our attention.

One way to ensure what you’re breathing in is safe is to prioritize indoor air quality through HVAC maintenance. Your HVAC system can do more than just keep you warm or cool. It can filter out pollutants and circulate fresh air in your home. Investing a little time and money into keeping your HVAC in top condition can significantly improve the air quality in your living or working space.

This article will give you information on how regular HVAC maintenance can be a game-changer for indoor air quality and discuss the tools you need to create a healthier environment.

Signs Your Place Has Poor Air Quality

Just because the air outside isn’t the best quality doesn’t mean the same must be true for the air in your house. You have to recognize a few signs that indicate the air quality in your home isn’t up to par, so you know it’s time to improve it.

Health Symptoms. If you or your family members are experiencing increased allergies, respiratory problems, headaches, or dizziness, it might be time to assess your air quality. These symptoms can be especially telling if they improve once you leave the house.
Dust. A noticeable amount of dust, even after regular cleaning, suggests that your air filters are clogged or that your HVAC system isn’t effectively removing particles from the air.
Unpleasant Odors. Smells that linger can also be a sign of poor ventilation or the presence of contaminants.

How the HVAC System Affects Air Quality

Your HVAC system does more than keep your home at a cozy temperature. It can also maintain the quality of the air you breathe. It does that by constantly moving the air around, controlling the moisture, and filtering out harmful particles.

Good air circulation ensures that air doesn’t become stagnant. The HVAC system pushes the air throughout your house, ensuring that stale air doesn’t linger in one spot for too long. That dilutes the concentrations of indoor pollutants, which can come from cleaning products, cooking fumes, and even off-gassing from furniture.
Humidity control is another way your HVAC system affects indoor air quality. Too much humidity can speed up the spread of mold and spores, triggering allergies and respiratory issues. If the air is too dry, it can irritate your skin, eyes, and throat.
Filtering out indoor pollutants is one of the most direct ways your HVAC system improves air quality. Most systems have air filters that trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particulates. Upgrading to a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can further improve your indoor air quality by capturing even smaller particles.

HVAC Maintenance Tasks for Better Air Quality

While you can’t control the air you breathe outside, you can ensure it doesn’t happen inside your house or apartment. Improving the air quality in your home starts with taking good care of your HVAC system, and you can achieve that with a few simple steps.

Changing or Cleaning the Air Filters

The maintenance schedule can vary depending on the type of filters your system uses, whether they are fiberglass, pleated, or HEPA. You must replace fiberglass filters every 30 days, while HEPA filters can last up to six months.

When they become clogged, the air quality diminishes, and your system has to work harder. That can result in higher energy bills and additional wear and tear on the system.

Deep Cleaning the Ducts and Vents

You should do this every three to five years, depending on whether you have pets, smoke, or if anyone in the household has allergies. You’ll know it’s time for cleaning if you notice dust buildup around the vent areas, inconsistent airflow in different parts of the house, or an unexplained increase in energy bills.

Checking and Refilling Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant in your HVAC system is what cools the air in your home. If the system has a leak and the refrigerant levels drop, it can lead to decreased cooling efficiency and release chemicals into the air that are harmful to breathe. Keeping an eye on refrigerant levels and addressing any leaks helps keep your air clean and your system running smoothly.

Scheduling Professional Inspections

An expert can spot issues you might miss, from minor leaks to components that are wearing out. During a maintenance visit, a technician will clean parts of the system you can’t easily access, check refrigerant levels, and ensure every component is in good working order. They can take a look at the filters and ducts and tell you if it’s time for a good clean.

Extra Tips for Improving Air Quality

In addition to taking care of your HVAC, you can do a few other things to improve your home’s air quality. They will leave your indoor air feeling and smelling fresh and reduce the load on your air-conditioning system.

You can place a couple of air purifiers, especially in rooms where you spend most of your time. These devices filter out pollutants, allergens, and even odors, providing cleaner air to breathe.

Another thing you can do is improve air circulation. Opening windows to let fresh air in and using exhaust fans can help reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants. This is particularly important in areas like the kitchen, where cooking vents can capture a lot of the particulates and gasses that cooking generates before they spread throughout your home.

Incorporating indoor plants into your living space can serve a dual purpose. Not only do they add a touch of nature and beauty, but certain species are known for their air-purifying abilities. They can absorb some common indoor pollutants and release oxygen, leaving your indoor environment healthier.

When to Call an HVAC Professional

If you’re consistent with all the cleaning and maintenance tasks for taking care of the HVAC but still notice the air feels stuffy or has a persistent unpleasant odor, it might be time to call a professional. Or, if your HVAC system isn’t cooling or heating as it should, you could be dealing with refrigerant leaks or electrical issues.

These problems can affect air quality but are dangerous if not handled correctly. An HVAC professional can give your system a complete once-over, spotting and fixing any potential issues right away. Professional maintenance often comes with warranty protection, guaranteeing a job well done.

Get the Freshest Air in Santa Rosa, CA

Prioritizing indoor air quality through HVAC maintenance is how you make sure it’s clean and healthy. Simple actions like replacing filters regularly and keeping vents clear can help improve the air quality in your home. While your daily practices make a difference, sometimes calling the experts is best.

If you want to have the best indoor air quality and live in the area of Santa Rosa, California, look no further than Elevated Comfort. We’re a local family business that has been operating for 20+ years. If the air in your home is making it harder to breathe, we’re here to inspect, clean, or replace any part of your system.

You can join our “Grandma Mac Club” and get free HVAC service twice a year. So don’t wait; call us and let us elevate the quality of your home today!

FAQ’s

What services does Elevated Comfort offer?

Elevated Comfort specializes in comprehensive HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They also provide air quality assessments and solutions to ensure a healthy indoor environment.

How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance with Elevated Comfort?

It’s recommended to schedule HVAC maintenance at least twice a year with Elevated Comfort. Their “Grandma Mac Club” offers complimentary services twice annually, ensuring your system remains efficient and your indoor air quality stays optimal.

What sets Elevated Comfort apart from other HVAC companies?

Elevated Comfort is a local family business with over 20 years of experience serving the Santa Rosa, CA area. Their dedication to customer satisfaction, attention to detail, and expertise in improving indoor air quality make them stand out in the industry.

I’ve noticed a decline in indoor air quality. What should I do?

If you’re experiencing issues with indoor air quality, such as increased allergies or persistent odors, contact Elevated Comfort for an assessment. Their team of HVAC professionals can inspect your system, identify any problems, and provide effective solutions to improve air quality and comfort in your home.

Best AC Setting for Sleep, Work, and Savings

Written by Elevated Comfort on September 1, 2022. Posted in AC. No Comments on Best AC Setting for Sleep, Work, and Savings

Summer may be coming to an end, but it’s never too late to start thinking about how to lower your energy bill. One way to shrink your energy bill is to find the best AC setting for your needs. Elevated Comfort has found the best AC setting for sleep, work, and savings! With the right AC settings, you can keep your house cool and comfortable while keeping your energy bill manageable. Keep reading for more information on how to find the best AC setting for you!

The Best AC Setting For Sleep

According to the Sleep Foundation, the best AC setting for getting a good night’s sleep is 65℉. This temperature is cool enough to promote restful sleep but not so cold that you’ll wake up shivering in the middle of the night. If you have trouble sleeping, give this AC setting a try! You can even drop it down to 60℉ if you’re still feeling too toasty.

What Is the Most Energy-Efficient Setting for Bedtime?

Here’s where things get a little tricky. If you ask a medical doctor for their recommendation for a nighttime AC setting, you’ll find that most of them recommend a cooler temperature—somewhere between 60℉ and 72℉ at the highest. This is because heat typically disturbs sleep more than cold (and why winter naps are so famously refreshing). But if you ask Energy Star for the best setting to save money, the recommendation jumps up to a sweltering 82℉.

The Best AC Setting For Work

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) recommends keeping office thermostats set somewhere between 68℉ and 76℉. There isn’t nearly as much research available on the best AC setting for productivity, but 72℉ falls right in the middle of this range and provides the best opportunity to please everyone at your office. Happy people are more productive (and there is research to back that up).

What to Set Your Home AC to While You’re Gone

While you’re at work or running errands, there’s no reason to keep your home as cool as it needs to be when you’re there. In fact, most people find that their homes are actually more comfortable when they’re set a few degrees warmer than usual when they’re gone. The recommended temperature is around 85℉, leaving enough slack to save money and keeping cool enough that your HVAC system won’t struggle to get down to temp when you get home.

The Best AC Setting For Savings

Now let’s get into the savings side of things. The Energy Star program recommends keeping your thermostat at 78℉ when you’re home and awake for the most significant energy savings. But, of course, this temperature might not be comfortable for everyone in your home. If that’s the case, aim for the middle ground between comfort and savings by setting your thermostat to 68℉ or above. You’ll still see some energy savings while keeping things comfortable for everyone in your home.

AC Maintenance for More Energy Savings

We hope you have found these recommendations for the best AC setting for sleep, work, and savings helpful in deciding on the ideal temperature for your home and office! By following these simple tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long while shrinking your energy bill. Give our team a call today to learn more about how we can help you save money on your energy costs with our AC maintenance services and our maintenance program!