HVAC Maintenance: Get HVAC Systems Ready for the Fall

Get Heating Systems Ready

The end of summer isn’t the time of year when homeowners typically think about cold weather and their heating system.  The only part of the HVAC system commonly thought about at this time of year is the air conditioner. 

Yet, the start of fall is the perfect time to schedule HVAC maintenance and get a head start on the colder seasons coming in the weeks ahead. Maintenance of the HVAC system is recommended twice a year. Once for the heating system and once for the air conditioner. With early fall tune-ups, homeowners can be sure their heating unit is ready to battle the cold weather without interruptions or system breakdowns. 

Why Should Homeowners Opt for Maintenance?

benefitsScheduling heater maintenance now reduces the likelihood of a breakdown when temperatures outside are cold.  HVAC technicians are trained to spot problems when they’re small and can fix them before they worsen. Their keen eye to detect issues with heater efficiency and defunct parts can save homeowners money on monthly heating costs and repair costs every year.  

Other benefits of heating maintenance include:

  • Improved airflow and efficiency, lowering energy bills 
  • Reduced humidity levels in the home  for improved air circulation
  • The EPA recommends it
  • Improves lifespan and performance of the heating system
  • It prevents costly breakdowns or repairs in the future
  • Peace of mind and year-round comfort

What Goes Into Heater Maintenance?

filter Experts servicing heaters complete three phases during fall maintenance:

  1. Inspection: The HVAC technician inspects the unit for signs of broken or worn-out parts and other signs of defect. Homeowners can schedule a service appointment if the technician finds the need for major repairs.
  2. Cleaning:  The next phase involves cleaning.  Professionals will clean coils and the other components of the system to improve indoor air quality and prevent system issues. The EPA recommends changing air filters in the HVAC system at least every three months to help maintain the heating and cooling system. Clean air filters help keep the system working in tip-top condition and are a task that homeowners can do themselves.
  3. Service:  HVAC service is the final phase of a fall tune-up.  At this phase, the technician repairs defects found within the unit during maintenance, refills the coolant if needed, and replaces parts that are broken or not performing at peak efficiency. 

When Should Homeowners Think About Heating Maintenance?

It’s never too early to worry about the heater and its performance capabilities.  Scheduling maintenance now ensures the HVAC company isn’t too busy to service the unit like they could be later in the fall and winter when most homeowners schedule heater appointments.  

When colder weather rolls around, the heater becomes the most important appliance in the home. A breakdown or malfunction can leave the entire family wrapped in blankets to stay warm and lead to poor indoor air quality throughout the house. A breakdown can also cost homeowners a lot of money in repair costs or force an early system replacement—however, the earlier the fall tune-up, the fewer worries of problems like these.

About KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning

KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning has over 40 years of experience serving the residents of Palm Springs, CA, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for heating maintenance in Palm Springs, CA.

Why Is It Important To Schedule AC Maintenance Now?

It’s Time to Schedule AC Maintenance To Beat the Summer Heat!

It’s that time of year again when the heat intensifies, and homeowners use their AC systems more. Regular AC maintenance can aid in the effectiveness of the AC system, just in time before the summer.

There are several reasons why now is the best time for homeowners to schedule a quick and effortless air conditioning tune-up. Homeowners should understand these reasons and call soon to schedule their air conditioning maintenance service.

Currently, There is More Scheduling Availability

scheduling

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to know when an AC system will stop working. However, experts have noted that during the summer, especially as temperatures rise quickly, more people notice problems with their AC. Because of this, more people want to schedule AC services.

It is best to beat the rush by getting an AC tune-up this month or as soon as possible! Air conditioning repair companies only have so many spots available each day for regular maintenance checks. If homeowners wait too long, they can be left with a broken AC system and AC repair scheduled a month later.

Catch Problems Before They Worsen

Homeowners should consider that inspections and proper maintenance allow HVAC technicians to find problems during their earlier stages. Most people don’t notice that their AC systems are slowly breaking and wearing down because the signs are subtle. It is best to call an AC company for maintenance now than have to pay more for an AC repair later.

Not only can waiting be more expensive, but troublesome. Nobody wants to get stuck in the middle of the summer’s intense heat with a non-working air conditioning system. HVAC experts can monitor a homeowner’s system for problems over time. Not only can they watch for problems, but they also maintain the system through regular annual maintenance. 

Annual Maintenance Leads to Efficient AC Systems

ac

Homeowners should schedule annual maintenance as these services lead to efficient AC systems that run faster, easier, and more energy-efficient. When an AC system is working as it should, this can lead to a lower cost of electricity each month. If the AC system does not undergo proper annual maintenance, then normal wear and tear can accelerate and lower the life expectancy of the AC unit.

Annual maintenance includes various services like changing the air filters and cleaning out the coils and outside vents. When dust particles and other debris get in these smaller spaces, it can cause a clog and backup, leading to a slower and high-energy HVAC system. Homeowners that want an AC system that works efficiently by using as little energy as possible should consider scheduling now for their annual maintenance check.

About KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning

KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning has served their neighbors in the Coachella Valley for over 40 years and have been named Best of Home Advisor for 8 years running. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing, 24/7 emergency service, and a membership plan that includes annual inspections, tune-ups, and exclusive discounts. Call them today for AC maintenance services in Palm Springs, CA.

Give the Gift of a Sump Pump This Holiday Season

Give the Gift of a Sump Pump This Holiday Season 

Rainwater ground runoff and flooding can cause homes to flood with water. A sump pump is a device designed to collect and remove water that has been collected into a sump pit. Having standing water in a home can cause mold, bugs, and damage. A new sump pump is a perfect gift for homeowners this holiday season because it helps them prevent flooding and the water damage that comes with it.  

Benefits of Installing a Sump Pumppump

A sump pump is a piece of home hardware that uses a pump to remove unwanted water from the basement or other lowest parts of a home and prevent flooding. Sump pump basins are cut into the ground and collect the water. When water levels start rising in the basin, the pump removes the water from the pit through a drain outdoors. 

The benefits of installing a sump pump include preventing flooding, property damage, personal injury, mold, and mildew growth, and keeping the basement clean. Flooding can cost homeowners an arm and a leg if the water damages essential home hardware. Homeowners may also want to add a dehumidifier to further prevent the growth of mold from excessive moisture. It can also be disastrous if the water reaches electrical wiring so installing a sump pump keeps homeowners safe and the basement sanitary.

Submersible vs. Pedestal Sump Pumps

pumpsThe big difference between the two main types of sump pumps is that the motor of a submersible sump pump is submerged inside the sump pit, and the motor of a pedestal sump pump is not. Submersible sump pumps are also more powerful and can handle more flooding. Because the pump’s engine is submerged in the water from the basin, they are quieter but don’t last as long. Homes with heavy flooding will most likely need a submersible sump pump. 

A pedestal pump is not as powerful as a submersible pump, but it does have some benefits. Pedestal pumps are less expensive and easier to install and maintain. They also typically last longer than submersible pumps because they experience less wear and tear since their motor does not go into the pit with water. 

Get a Sump Pump Backup

It’s a good idea to have a battery backup sump pump in case the power goes out due to storms or another weather event. Most sump pumps require electricity to run. In the case of a power outage, the sump pump may not be able to prevent the home from flooding without a power backup. A battery-powered backup or combination sump pump will help homeowners protect their homes and property during power outages. 

Some areas may experience such bad flooding that more than one sump pump is needed to keep the floor clear of water, making a backup sump pump even more important. Combination sump pumps have a battery-powered backup pump that is installed at the same time as the primary sump pump, so in the event of a power outage, the battery-powered one will take over. Starting the new year with a new sump pump can give homeowners peace of mind that they will be protected from flooding, water damage, mold, and mildew growth.  

About KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning

KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning has over 40 years of experience serving Palm Springs, CA, and the surrounding areas. They provide 24/7 emergency service, upfront prices, and financing. Call them today for sump pump services in Palm Springs, CA.

3 Easy Ways to Improve Heating and Cooling This Year

3 Ways to Improve Heating and Cooling This Year 

Heading into the new year is a chance for homeowners to reevaluate their HVAC system to find ways to lessen their utility bills, boost energy savings, and keep maintenance low. Here are three HVAC expert-approved ways to improve the performance of a heating and cooling system in 2022.

Optimize the Temperature Settings temperature

The ideal temperature settings for each home will vary based on climate and the homeowner’s preferences, but keeping the temperature consistent is always key to keeping energy usage low. When the air conditioning is turning on and off constantly, it uses more energy, making for higher energy bills and putting more strain on the system overall leading to more frequent repairs. 

Smart thermostats and programmable thermostats make it easier to optimize the temperature settings. Thermostat replacement can be easy for homeowners to improve their heating and cooling this year. Smart thermostats learn the energy usage patterns of the home and make adjustments automatically. 

Schedule Bi-Annual Maintenance calendar

One should do AC maintenance and heating maintenance at least twice a year. Air conditioning maintenance involves:
  • Cleaning the inside of the unit
  • Replacing coolant fluid
  • Checking for worn-out parts

Heating maintenance can be more complicated due to the high temperatures within a furnace or boiler and should always be left to the experts. 

Keeping up with HVAC system maintenance will promote the system’s longevity by preventing unnecessary repairs. During regularly scheduled maintenance, the technician will have a chance to look over the system for signs of damage that could indicate a larger problem. Doing maintenance just twice a year can drastically extend the lifespan of the heating and cooling system. 

Change the Air Filters Often 

Air filters are an important aspect of a central air system. The filtration system cleans dust, dirt, pet hair, dander, and other debris from the air as it circulates. When the air filter becomes too dirty, dust bunnies can take over the HVAC system and eventually cause a system failure. Dirty air filters can also cause allergic reactions to flare up from the airborne contaminants. 

Most air filters need to be replaced every three months, but in homes with many family members, multiple pets, or cigarette smokers, the filter may need to be replaced every month or every other month. Forgetting to change the filter may not seem like a big deal, but this mistake can cause a total HVAC system failure that is difficult to repair. 

AC filter replacement is usually a simple process, but homeowners unable to do it themselves should contact a local AC company for filter replacement services. An experienced HVAC technician can help the homeowner determine which air filter is right for their system and how often they should optimally replace it. 

About KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning

KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning is a top-rated local heating company that offers comprehensive HVAC services to Palm Springs and the surrounding areas. They are available 24/7 for plumbing or HVAC emergencies and have a flat-rate menu of prices, so homeowners always know what to expect. 

3 Lucky AC Repair Tips for Solving and Preventing Air Conditioning Problems

3 Pro Tips for Solving (and Preventing) Air Conditioning Problems

Saint Patrick’s Day is the harbinger of spring for many folks – even if it happens to land a little before or after the official equinox. And of course, with springtime comes warmer weather and longer days. So it’s around this time that most people (especially in warmer regions like Southern California) stop using the heater and start cranking up the air conditioner.

And as AC usage increases, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to experience problems or hiccups with their AC systems. Fortunately, many of these seemingly dire issues often come down to a relatively easy fix. So before calling the nearest air conditioner repair company, homeowners may be able to save money and hassle by first eliminating these three possible causes of AC troubles.

Put In a Fresh Air Filter

filter

The air filter is the first thing to check when the air conditioner isn’t working properly. When the filter becomes clogged with dirt, dust, hair, and other household particulates, the air handler won’t be able to pull in the air as effectively. This can drive up energy consumption, hinder unit performance, allow dirt to accumulate on internal components, and even cause the evaporator coils to freeze over. Problems like weak or warm air coming from the vents, uneven cooling, and poor air quality can result in a dirty filter.

Fortunately, the solution is simple: change the air filter! Or, if the home has a washable filter, it should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The ideal air filter replacement or cleaning schedule depends on various factors, such as the number of pets in the home, the overall level of dust (some rural homes may get more dirt or pollen tracked in), and any respiratory sensitivities of the occupants, but every 3-4 months is a good baseline.

Make Sure the Thermostat Isn’t the Problem

thermostat

The thermostat is the next place to turn when the AC starts acting up. Dirt and dust can accumulate inside the thermostat and interfere with sensors or other electrical components. Wires can come loose or become corroded over time. Something could cause the thermostat breaker to trip. Older mechanical thermostats feature mercury bulbs that one can knock off balance with a bump.

These issues can cause a range of cooling problems, such as short-cycling (the system turns on and off repeatedly), continuous running, incorrect indoor temperature, and total system failure or shutdown.

If the thermostat screen is blank or the unit has suddenly stopped working, the best bet is to check the breaker or try replacing the thermostat batteries. When the unit is not performing correctly, homeowners can turn off the breaker and then remove the thermostat cover to inspect the internal components for dust, an off-kilter mercury bulb, loose wires, or other visual evidence. If there’s no obvious problem, or if the breaker continues to trip, it’s good to call an AC repair specialist to diagnose the issue.

Schedule a Tune-Up for Year-Round Protection

Finally, some AC performance problems may simply result from inadequate maintenance. This is the leading cause of heater and AC breakdowns and is usually preceded by one or more of the issues mentioned above – the house won’t get cool enough, the unit is always on, the HVAC breaker keeps tripping, etc.

A typical air conditioner tune-up and maintenance visit involves thoroughly cleaning the unit, lubricating fan bearings and other moving parts, checking belts and other components for wear and tear (and replacing them if need be), testing electrical systems, measuring performance metrics, recharging refrigerant lines, and numerous other tasks that ensure that the entire cooling system is in good shape and running at peak performance.

Whether homeowners are experiencing problems or not, it’s a good idea to schedule AC maintenance in the spring before the heat of summer arrives in full force – it’s truly the best way to ensure good luck all year long!

About KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning

KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning has been serving the Coachella Valley for over 40 years. As an award-winning and highly-rated local business, they offer flat-rate pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a rewarding membership plan. They also guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job, so there’s no one better to call for air conditioner maintenance and repair in Palm Springs, CA.