Author: ciwg_CEO@906

We are slowly but surely approaching air conditioning season. With the temperatures rising earlier each year in spring, things can get pretty busy for us HVAC technicians! It’s also that time of the year when your furnace most likely goes into hibernation mode (i.e. you don’t switch it on for months until you need to).

With the temperatures going up outside, it begs the question: is it actually necessary to maintain your furnace in the summer? Well, actually, yes! And here’s why.

Reason 1: It’s an ideal time

Now that your furnace is going to be used less when it’s hot out, you’ll be more likely to find underlying problems that you may have missed when the furnace was on in the winter. Ideally even though it’s a new season, proper maintenance and cleaning still needs to be done whenever that new season comes around again. If you don’t clean your furnace every so often, you’re most likely to discover debris and other undesirables. Speaking of which…

Reason 2: Dust can still collect

And not only dust but also debris, pet dander, and other unwanted particulates that can create a lot of trouble if left alone. Insects can also be a problem if your furnace is located in a room where they’re likely to come wandering in and think your furnace would be a good home. You may not have to turn on the heat in summer, but as we mentioned before, your furnace does still need to be cleaned regularly, especially if you skipped out on that task in the spring.

Reason 3: It might not be switched off fully

You may think that by switching the furnace from ‘heat’ to ‘cool’ when summer rolls in that your furnace has been shut off, period. However, this does not actually mean your furnace is fully switched off. Rather, by making this adjustment your furnace is still running. It means the gas pilot is still on, the furnace’s fuel resources are being used up, and your furnace is still running even though you don’t want it to.

Reason 4: Electrical problems

A quieter system doesn’t mean there aren’t potential problems, especially where the electrical components are concerned. This doesn’t mean going to fix any electric problems yourself! DIY with electricity is a very dangerous task best left to professionals. What you can do is while your furnace isn’t in use, open it up to visually check if any wires have come loose or completely disconnected. If so, that’s when you call in your technician so they can better diagnose the electrical problem and fix it professionally.

Reason 5: It makes sense

Maintaining your furnace in the summer even though it’s hot outside can help provide several benefits:

1. It allows you to determine if you need a new one. Summer is actually the perfect time of the year to shop around for a new furnace, because everyone else will be so focused on using their air conditioning.
2. It will save you some money. Maintaining your furnace when you don’t need it switched on, such as changing the air filter inside, can help minimize charges to your electricity and energy bills.
3. It prevents potential damages to your unit. Even if you only ever maintain your furnace every six months, you need to at least change the filter more often depending on your household (for example if you own pets). So maintaining the furnace even when it’s summer can prevent long-term damages to the unit’s efficiency.
4. It saves you resources. If it’s summer and you know you won’t need your furnace on the whole season, switching the furnace off fully for maintenance purposes (including the pilot light) can save you a little money on fuel too. Every dollar saved can help (especially if you want to make improvements to your home’s HVAC, for example).

If it’s been over six months since you had your furnace maintained, or you’ve discovered a few problems such as with the electricity or pilot light, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Everyone is different when it comes to their comfort level and preferred temperature. When it comes to the heat and the cold, the ideal setting is one where you don’t have to worry about your HVAC systems one bit, other than the maintenance. That’s because when we are comfortable, then you never have a reason to mess with the systems in the first place!

Yes, we mean multiple systems, and not just the one. That’s because each system was built with a similar purpose in mind, and they all work together to ensure you live at a comfortable temperature no matter what time of the year it is. These methods of getting the most out of your HVAC systems will cover multiple units, regardless of their type.

Method 1: Consider the thermostats

This is the biggest way to tell if you are using too much or too little energy to get the heating or cooling job done. Paying attention to the thermostat is going to be the best way to optimize your HVAC system.

• This part’s often forgotten despite how easy it is to take care of: changing the batteries. If these are what your HVAC’s thermostat runs on, replacing these once a year will help make sure the system doesn’t stop working due to dead batteries.
• Several thermostats now come in digital form, offering you lots of programming options and automatic settings for energy saving when you’re not home. Changing the temperature too much, however, will cost you more energy and money than it would if you leave it alone. Rule of thumb: if you’re leaving the building at any point, try not to turn the thermostat any more than 3 degrees—in either direction—at a time.

Method 2: Understand energy ratings

Anytime you invest in a new HVAC system, whether it’s the furnace, a new air conditioner, or a heat pump, each unit comes with a customized efficiency rating. Be sure to pay attention to these measurements as they indicate how efficiently the unit will use its fuel, whether it’s gas, oil, or electricity. A good resource to learn about energy ratings is from your technician; we’re educated on the latest and best energy ratings for our clients (we have to be, so they get the units they need, not just what’s popular on the market). We’re also educated on several other topics relating to HVAC; seriously, it never hurts to ask us questions if you’ve got them!

Method 3: Ensure there are no air leaks

You should always check the windows and door frames in your home to make sure there are no air leaks or damaged parts where air can escape or blow into. This will ensure you are not letting warm air escape in the winter and blow hot air in by accident in the summer. Seal any potential weaknesses where a draft can occur. Some likely areas include your windowpanes, the patio door (if you have one), and the gaps under your doors. Other airflow leaks could come from your ductwork; fixing this will require some extra help from your technician.

Method 4: Maintenance is key

Checking on the air filters in your units regularly will ensure you have continually flowing fresh air throughout your home. As the weather grows warmer, it is recommended you check on the filter every month, particularly if your home is prone to heavy dust buildup or if you own house pets. Replacing it every three months is recommended for best airflow.

Other regular maintenance tasks is also strongly advised to ensure your HVAC system is working at its most efficient, such as checking on components, cleaning out areas that tend to dirty the most, keeping outdoor debris away from your units, and scheduling a tune-up from your technician once a year.

Method 5: Know when it’s time to replace, not repair

A lot of factors can determine when it’s really time to replace the HVAC unit outright as opposed to repairing it and calling it a day. If you also find that certain components, such as the thermostat, are faulty on more than one occasion, or that your energy bills keep going up and up despite your best efforts to save energy, it’s time for a replacement and it’s time to call in the professionals.

Need some more help getting the most out of your HVAC? Perhaps we can help? At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Sometimes HVAC systems and commercial companies go hand in hand perfectly. For example, if you run a restaurant or a grocery store, then the need for HVAC is unquestioned; temperature needs to be controlled in these types of businesses for comfort and health reasons. Other businesses may not necessarily need HVAC, but it’s a welcome addition especially during the hottest and coldest months of the year.

Just like at home, however, mistakes can be made with commercial HVAC too. Here are the top five mistakes you really need to avoid making with the HVAC for your business—or maybe you’re making these mistakes already and need the wakeup call (we’ll leave it up to you to figure that part out).

Mistake 1: Using the wrong sized units

The sizes used to heat up or cool down your company’s building does matter. Too small of a unit cannot aid a giant room’s temperature; likewise, an oversized unit can cause all sorts of problems.

You need to go over these measurements with a professional HVAC technician; they’ve been trained to understand better how big or small a unit must be in order to perform its heating or cooling tasks properly. That way, you’ll know a more adequate system has been installed. Besides, the newer units are built to be more energy efficient than the older ones.

Mistake 2: Failing to provide the units space

Anytime you have an HVAC system installed in your commercial building, there needs to be enough space surrounding it so it can do its job right. Without proper space, the unit will force itself to work harder than it should to ensure its cooling or heating process is complete. Give those units space! The general rule is 2 feet of space all around, regardless of its location.

Mistake 3: Constantly fiddling with the thermostat

Repeatedly adjusting the thermostat on commercial HVAC is a big no-no for a lot of reasons. One, it forces the HVAC units to work harder than they need to. Two, it means no one will be comfortable. Three, it wastes more energy than you may even realize. In order to maintain a proper temperature, you need to keep that thermostat level and don’t touch it too often. If everyone at work is leaving for the day and it’s a long weekend, then at most you should only turn the thermostat either up or down by 3 degrees—no more than that.

Mistake 4: Improper duct systems

Just as the HVAC unit needs to be properly sized, so too should the air duct system attached to the units. You will not be able to achieve proper airflow or ventilation to rooms that need it the most (the computer room is one example) if you attach a newer unit to your older ducts. Likewise, you can’t just replace the ducts and expect your older HVAC unit to accommodate them.

Unlike clothing, HVAC installations are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For every purpose, whether commercial or residential, the system itself, the space surrounding it, and even the size of the ductwork must all be measured correctly in order for the unit to function at its very best.

Mistake 5: Failing to clean and maintain regularly

This is the biggest mistake of all because if you don’t clean or maintain your commercial HVAC units regularly, you lose valuable money and energy that could be going towards paying for other assets. Another thing that causes you to lose money is to pay for repairs to an aging system that really should be replaced outright instead of repaired—especially if it’s older than 15-20 years. Failing to clean the system filters also means you are exposing yourself and your staff to air pollutants and dust—and no one likes to work when they’re sneezing and coughing all the time.

Drainage problems in the HVAC systems for commercial buildings can also occur if you fail to clean and maintain them properly. Accumulating water that’s not drained properly can lead to mold and air pollutants; in cold weather the water can back up and freeze the insides of pipes; if the drainage system isn’t set up properly, it can lead to water leaks that create severe building damage. All of which spells trouble for your business!

If you’ve discovered one or more of these mistakes has been made, it’s not too late; get in touch with our professional technicians. We can replace or install older commercial HVAC with better, properly sized units. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s that time of the year when hot drinks like freshly brewed coffee and tea are gradually replaced with their icy counterparts! Naturally if you offer beverages liked iced tea or iced coffee, you most likely run an ice machine in your restaurant, or maybe you run a pretty cool (pun intended) convenience store that sells ice cubes. Or, maybe you work at the movie theatre and help serve cold drinks?

Whatever establishment you either run or are a part of, an ice machine can bring some bonus to the quality of your beverage or frozen products. It’s when it breaks down or fails that’s less than impressive on several levels! To prevent that from happening, we’re going to go over how you can clean and maintain your commercial ice machine.

Step 1: Have your tools ready

To properly clean and maintain your commercial ice maker, you will need:

• Heavy duty rubber gloves
• Ice machine sanitizer
• A mop and mop bucket
• A cleaning solution consisting of lukewarm water and cleaner
• Empty spray bottles for the cleaning solutions
• Cleaning cloths
• A soft-bristle nylon brushes or a sponge
• Protective safety glasses for when making the cleaning solutions
• A flashlight
• The instructions manual for the machine (very important!)

Step 2: Remove any and all of the ice

If there is any ice remaining in your ice maker, you will need to remove it so you can clean it properly. Allow the ice to completely melt before you start working on cleaning. You can do this one of two ways:

• Press the power switch at the end of the harvest cycle (after ice falls from the evaporators).
• Press the power switch, and allow the ice to fully melt.

Follow the instructions laid out in the instruction manual for the ice machine in order to perform this task. The cleaning cycle usually lasts 20 minutes.

Step 3: Make sure the power is off

Once the cleaning cycle is fully complete and all of the ice has melted, disconnect the power to the ice machine (also disconnect power to the dispenser if there is one). Note that any machinery that you need to use on a regular basis needs to be shut off, including your ice machine. It may seem silly to you that we mention this step at all, but you never know…

Step 4: Remove necessary components

Again, refer to your ice machine’s instruction manual for this step. That way you can be sure the parts can be safely and properly removed and then replaced once they’re clean. Set these parts aside in a safe place.

Step 5: Prepare the cleaning solutions

Generally the water to cleaner ratio for this sort of task is to ensure there’s 1 gallon of water per 16 ounces of cleaner. Depending on how long it’s been since the ice machine was last cleaned, you may need to make a little more cleaner in order to remove the amount of mineral buildup that’s accumulated.

Step 6: Clean the parts

Use half of the cleaning solution you’ve made to clean all of the parts you’ve removed from the ice machine. If there’s foaming reactions upon spraying with cleaner, that’s normal; the lime, scale, and mineral buildup is reacting to the cleaner. That’s all it is. Once the foaming has stopped, use the soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove the mineral buildup and clean the part. Rinse them off with clean water when finished.

As you clean these parts, inspect in particular the evaporator, water hoses, water distribution parts, the water pump or reservoir, the water sensors, the thermistors (resistor dependent on temperature), and the cube sizing controls. If you spot something wrong, it’s best to call a technician for help.

Step 7: Clean the Water Filter and Condenser

As with every refrigeration unit, a water filter and condenser help the cooling and ice making processes function normally. If your ice machine is self-contained, it should have a washable filter that can trap the dust, dirt, lint, and grease that threatens to dirty your ice. Rinse the filter with mild soap and water. This task should be performed every 6 months to ensure the filter is kept in good condition. Check the water pressure while you’re cleaning to see if it drops; if so there are some restrictions that need a technician to fix the issue.

For the condenser, you will need to have the power turned off on both the remote condensing unit and the head section of the ice machine. Remember, safety first! Once the power is off, shine the flashlight on the condenser fins and inspect for dirt. If dirt is present, you can remove it one of two ways: one, rinse it with water from the inside out, and two, blow air through the condenser hose.

Step 8: Clean the Exterior

Now that the inside of your commercial ice machine is clean, you need to clean the exterior too. After all, that’s where your hands are being used the most to scoop the ice into beverages. This exterior should be cleaned as often as necessary, and thankfully this part is easy. All you have to do is wipe the outside surfaces down with a damp cloth with water to remove dust and dirt, or mild dish soap and water if there’s a greasy residue. Never, ever use any abrasive tools to clean the outside! Always refer to the manual for restrictions on cleaners and tools.

Step 9: Sanitize

Now that the cleaning process is done, it’s time to sanitize your commercial ice machine. Create a solution of lukewarm water and sanitizer in a separate spray bottle or bucket; as with the cleaner solution, your manual should indicate the correct ratio of sanitizer to water that’s needed. Use half of your newly made solution on all of the parts you’ve just cleaned. Apply the solution liberally with the spray bottle or let the parts soak in the bucket. Do NOT rinse these with water when you’re done!

As the parts are soaking, use the other half of the sanitizing solution to clean all food zone surfaces on the ice machine, the bin, and the ice dispenser. Pay close attention while applying the solution liberally to the evaporator plastic parts, the base (above the trough), and the side walls. Replace all components you’ve removed and refer to the manual for proper replacement.

Set your ice machine to start automatically making ice after sanitizing is complete. This will take 20 minutes, about the same time you need to allow the sanitizer to properly disinfect the machine. Observe a few cycles, monitoring the freeze and harvest cycle times. Throw out the first batch of ice that’s made (this ice contains sanitizer and cleaner anyway!).

Step 10: Schedule an inspection

If it’s been too long since the commercial ice machine was last cleaned or maintained, or you have no time in your busy schedule to perform these steps properly, there’s no harm in hiring professional help to do the job for you. You should never hesitate to call if you’ve identified any of the following signs of trouble with your ice machine:

• There is still dirt in the condenser, even after cleaning it
• The water pressure drops in the filtration system
• You’ve discovered a faulty or broken part
• The freeze and harvest times take too long, or no ice is released at all
• The ice quality is too poor, even after cleaning
• You’ve decided it’s time to replace the ice machine

In case you’re wondering, yes, we do install and repair ice machines for commercial businesses! If you’d like us to be the ones to clean and maintain your ice machine, or it needs an inspection or professional repairs or replacements at any time, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

By now spring is in full swing, and we’re sure you’re very busy getting the most out of what sunshine there is (or, if you have allergies, you’re trying to survive pollen season!). With the arrival of a new season comes a new list of HVAC tasks to perform. If you get these done and out of the way now, you won’t have to worry about your systems failing when summer hits! Here are seven easy things you can do now that spring has arrived at last.

1. Check for damage from winter

The key aspects of your soon-to-be-used air conditioning in the summer are contained within the outdoor unit. Without that, you have no cooling process. Depending on where it’s located on your property and upkeep, there may have been some damage sustained during the winter months. Most of the time by damage we mean the dirt and debris from blizzards and storms that have built up when it’s cold outside. Thankfully, this is easy to remove.

2. Maintain your air conditioner

Spring is an excellent opportunity to clean and prepare your air conditioner for when it gets really warm inside and out. It’s also the best time to inspect the unit and ensure there are no parts that look worn down or faulty. Having the parts replaced now (maybe with a new installation in mind) can be less expensive for you down the road.

3. Replace your thermostat

Maybe it’s time to upgrade this important piece of equipment? A smart thermostat is easy to control even when you’re not at home, ensuring that the temperature is warmer when you’re away and at a comfortable level when you’re at home. It’s a great way to save extra energy and money in the long run too!

4. Inspect your hot water heater

The thermostat on your air conditioner is not the only adjustment you need to make. Your hot water heater should also be adjusted by a few degrees if it’s not at its comfortable 48 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) already. Keep a sharp eye out for any potential leaks on the exterior, and also on the insulation on the cold water pipe. If the insulation looks worn down, it might be time to replace it. In the case of leaks, always call in the professionals!

5. Change your furnace’s filter

Now that winter is nearly out the door, it’s a good time to change the air filter in your furnace. Remove it and give it a good cleaning. Just because the air outside is warming up doesn’t mean your home is going to stay clean air-wise. If you own pets or have allergies, all air filters need to be regularly maintained across all HVAC units, not just the one. It may have been a while since you checked the furnace’s filter, anyway…

6. Clean your bathroom fans

The V in HVAC stands for ventilation, and your bathroom can easily become one of the most uncomfortable rooms temperature-wise if it goes uncleaned. It’s also probably been a while since you cleaned them too; lots of dust and dander can accumulate around the vents (doubly so if you own pets). In order to clean the fans, first switch off the power. Then remove the covers from the fans and wash them in soap and water. Use an old toothbrush to gently wipe the fan blades of dust before you place the covers back on.

7. Get an inspection done by a professional

Once you’ve performed the above six tasks, it’s time to call in the experts. Now that spring is really in motion, it’s the low season for us technicians before the busy summer months kick in, meaning more dedication and time is spent on ensuring you have functional and effective HVAC units. Feel free to ask your inspector questions during the inspection! You may learn a few more new things about how you can save energy and reduce costs.

Need help? Get your inspection scheduled today! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

The weather is finally starting to warm up! Now is the prime time of the year when people are shutting down their furnaces and rolling out their air conditioners in preparation for summer. Before you switch that A/C on though, think about the last time you maintained it; has it been a while? If so, now is a great time to properly maintain your A/C unit. Here are some steps you can take yourself.

Some notes before we get started

In this article we’ll mostly discuss how to maintain the most important parts of any air conditioner, regardless of its type. While caring for central A/C is vastly different from maintaining a window air conditioner (if you’re still stumped on the different types, then check out our past article on what you need to know), certain components are exactly the same throughout each system in order to function properly and create that cooling temperature you need throughout summer.

1. Ensure the power is off before you start

Safety first! It’s dangerous to work around electricity as well as the moving parts within the air conditioner. To shut off the power from the outside, look for an exterior shut-off box near the unit. From indoors, you need to also switch off the power from the breaker box.

2. Clean on and around the A/C unit

If you see any debris such as twigs or leaves on or near the unit’s exterior, remove this first. A lot of outdoor debris can accumulate from winter weather and it’s not a good idea leaving it alone. Give the unit some space! About 2 feet all around should do the trick.

3. Clean up the fins

These fins are built into every air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser to ensure there is proper airflow pumped out from these components. It’s a good idea to clean them up and to check to see if any fins are bent to make sure the unit is functioning normally. If there are bent fins, and you don’t feel like DIY’ing the task of straightening them out, you can always ask your HVAC technician to do it for you.

4. Change the air filter

This is arguably the very best step you can take to maintain your A/C. Changing it once a month (yes, even in winter when it’s not being used!) is recommended, and thankfully it’s a very easy thing to do and the task can be done in a few minutes. Air filters left uncleaned will put excess strain on the A/C unit and also pollute the indoor air quality of your home.

5. Check the evaporator coil

The evaporator coil is what helps absorb the heat in your home and cools it down, and it does this using refrigerant. Over time, dirt can insulate the coils which will reduce the amount of heat they can absorb, which in turn will force your A/C to work harder than it should to cool off your home. That’s why you need to keep the coils clean. There are a few ways to do it, but the best way to start is to follow our #2 tip in this article by clearing the outside area of any debris.

6. Check the condensation drain as well

This is another important component of your air conditioner next to the evaporator coil, because the two parts work together to cool down air. In the drain’s case, it’s what allows condensation created within the A/C unit to drain outdoors. However, over time this can become clogged (especially if, for example, the thermostat is turned down too low) and thus block the draining process. That’s why you should check every so often to see if this is draining properly. If it’s not, you’ll need to either unclog the obstruction or call in your HVAC technician for help.

7. Call a technician in case of emergencies

The reason we included this step is because anything could go wrong between numbers 1 through 6 of this article. You may detect one of the problems we’ve outlined such as a clogged condensation drain, for example, or the fins need to be straightened and you don’t have the tools to do it yourself. Or, maybe you just don’t have the time in your busy schedule to maintain your air conditioner, and you’d rather the job be done by professionals. Whatever the reason for it, scheduling an inspection by qualified technicians doesn’t hurt.

If you need an extra hand to maintain your air conditioner or it’s time for an inspection, then give us a call! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Winter is finally turning into spring, that special time of the year when everyone opens their windows to let in some fresh air. Depending on your hometown’s climate, it may already be warming up enough to feel like summer (temperatures can rise in parts of the Lower Mainland in BC even in April!). That means it’s time to switch on the A/C and let it do its thing…right?

If the air conditioning hasn’t been touched since last summer, hold that thought of switching it on now. Here’s why.

Examine your unit now and not later

By the time summer rolls around, it’s the busy season for us technicians. It’s a lot harder to schedule maintenance or a tune-up of your air conditioning, especially if you don’t switch it on until summer is in full swing and then realize something is wrong. Spring, on the other hand, is one of the low seasons for us, so there’s plenty of opportunity and time for us to tend to your HVAC needs, whatever they may be. So that’s why we insist that you examine your A/C unit now instead of later.

With that out of the way, let’s talk about the five biggest warning signs you should get new air conditioning.

Sign 1: Poor Airflow

Air that is hardly cooling the room down or it feels weakly distributed is one of the biggest telltale signs of an A/C unit in need of replacing. This usually occurs because of the unit’s compressor or ductwork. The compressor could be on its last legs, or there is something clogging the ductwork. Either way, this is the sign that needs to be addressed first if you identify it.

Just as bad as weak or no airflow is warm airflow. Your A/C should not be pumping out air that’s warm—that’s your furnace’s job. Warm air from the A/C usually means a problem with the compressor or that it’s low on refrigerant. These symptoms could also mean there is no cool air at all; both are a cause of concern.

Sign 2: Weird noises

Any working A/C should be running with minimal noise; a quiet hum is what you will most likely hear from a healthy unit. So any noises such as knocks, whines, loud hums (as in louder than per usual), and groans are a cause of concern—and depending on the cause, it’s a sign for new A/C. Otherwise, letting these noises carry on can lead to bigger, costlier jobs to install a new unit when it’s the summer months (not something we recommend).

Sign 3: Bad Smells

The indoor air after switching on your A/C should never produce a poor or unpleasant smell. If you do smell something such as burning or melting plastic, for example, or as if hair has caught on fire, or if there’s a foul smell you can’t pin down, it could have to do with your A/C unit.

Dust and grease may have accumulated too much around the compressor, or there’s a pollutant in the air ducts and ventilation that you can’t see (yep, all kinds of gross stuff can build up). Worst case if you smell burning, it can mean the electrical connections are shorting out or have shorted out. If that’s the smell, stop what you’re doing at once and turn off the A/C. Call in a professional and report the smell to them; they may be better able to understand the problem that caused it.

Sign 4: Leaks

No A/C should be leaking! Coolant is needed to help the condenser perform its cooling job properly. It may mean the condensation tray used to evaporate coolant and expel it into the air to lower the temperature could be overflowing. Moisture on top of the unit (i.e. it’s ‘sweating’) can also indicated a humidity issue.

Sign 5: It Constantly Runs

A perfectly sized A/C unit should never have to run constantly in order to perform its cooling job. If yours does, however, it usually means either the room is too big for your A/C or the unit itself is too small. It could also mean the unit is getting too old and needs to be replaced. An additional sign of air conditioning that’s too big or small to do a good job is if it runs for a bit, then shuts off—even though the room in question is still very warm.

Spring is a slow season for your HVAC technicians, so if you’ve noticed any of the above signs we’ve discussed in your A/C or you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade to a newer system, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s pretty much that time of the year again: spring cleaning season! Now that the weather is slowly but surely starting to warm up, it’s nearly time to shut off our furnaces and rev up the A/C right away…or is it?

Before you get excited about the warm weather, it’s time to get some spring cleaning done and out of the way. By doing so, it’ll be done and out of your way so you can go outside and get some fresh air! Here are some tips from us about how to spring clean your HVAC units.

Tip 1: Safety first!

Anytime you decide to clean your HVAC you must always make sure the power connecting to the unit is switched off. Check all power entrances and any separate fuses connecting to your units to determine if an electrical problem may be present (and if so, don’t do anything upon discovering it! Let professionals handle electrical components).

Use rubber gloves and if necessary masks when using cleaning products for exterior cleaning. You may want to wear a mask in case the dust build-up is really bad!

If you find certain components have worn down to the point of needing outright replacement, it’s best not to DIY installing the new part, especially if it’s an older system you’re cleaning. Your technician can do that for you, or if the system is too old for a single component replacement, they can install a brand new system which will save you money and time in the process.

Tip 2: The vacuum cleaner is your friend

We repeat: the vacuum cleaner is your friend. Well, unless you’re going outside, in which case the broom and rake are your next closest friends! Vacuum any dust bunnies, pet dander (if you have pets), dirt, or debris hanging out near your units. If you’re going to clean the air filters, have your vacuum cleaner on hand for that too.

If you have an outdoor HVAC system, sweep away all and any fallen leaves, dirt, and debris. While you’re at it, cut back all overgrown grass, bushes, and other plants so that they don’t touch or crowd the outdoor unit. Stick to the guideline of giving your outdoor heat pump at least 2 feet of space all around to prevent outdoor debris from harming the pumps.

Tip 3: Use these tools

In addition to the vacuum cleaner, broom, and rake, there are other tools you will want to have on hand for spring cleaning your HVAC. These tools include cleaning supplies such as warm water and soap, a scrub brush, a mop and mop bucket, and your HVAC units’ manuals. The latter item is especially important in the event you need to make a fix that’s easily DIY, or to determine whether or not it’s time to call in the professionals for help.

Another handy thing to have around are a toolbox in case you need to unscrew certain parts (such as getting in to check your air filter, if it’s attached to your unit as opposed to replaceable), a first aid kit (because you never just know—and, again, safety first), a flashlight, and insulation padding, scissors, and duct tape in the event your units’ insulation—usually the kind protecting its most delicate parts—is wearing thin.

Tip 4: Time to inspect

Now that the power to your units has been shut down and you’ve got your cleaning tools on hand, it’s time to inspect your units.

• Turn on your air conditioner. Yes, we mean that. Give it a quick test run to see if you notice any issues arising such as weird noises or weak airflow. If so, now is the best time to call a technician before temperatures outside rise.
• Check the furnace and A/C filters for any dirt and dust buildup. You will need to clean or replace these depending on the severity of the dirtiness buildup. After all, your furnace has probably been running all winter and collected all sorts of pollutants.
• Check the plumbing for any issues with your hot water heater and connecting pipes.
• Inspect the insulation covering your air ducts should there be any pieces wearing thin or need patching up.
• Ensure the thermostat is working. Test it out for a few minutes with each unit. If it’s attached to an older system, perhaps it’s time to upgrade to a smart thermostat for better results in saving energy.

Tip 5: Clean or replace these specifically

• Air filters. Again, check your furnace and A/C first.
• The surface and interior of the air ventilation ducts. Many gross things have probably accumulated over the winter, and you can’t just climb inside to take a look. Hiring professional duct cleaning may be your best shot at ensuring your vents are clean.
• Your A/C condenser. This is the most important component of the A/C unit that may or may need replacing.
• The thermostat. A faulty one could be the reason why there’s a problem with your HVAC even though it’s been cleaned through and through.
• The fan blades. This is more for your air conditioning, but it’s still a good idea to clean because the fan is what helps circulate cool air throughout the area. If it’s dirty, then the dirt will contaminate the indoor air.
• Specifically the kind covering up the air vents connecting to your HVAC or that which is surrounding the unit’s more delicate components. You don’t want there to be any tears where air can leak out from.
• The inside of your hot water heater. If this task seems daunting, don’t worry, we have an article on how to take care of that.

Tip 6: Clean up when you’re done

Things can get messy even when you’re cleaning your HVAC! Oil, gasoline, and even water (depending on which HVAC unit you’re tending to) could get spilled either while cleaning your units or refilling their fuel sources. Of course the most alarming mess to clean up is one created by a leak or a fracture somewhere either within or on the unit’s exterior. Get extra help from a technician if this is a mess you’ve discovered!

Tip 7: Your HVAC technician is your friend too!

Calling in the professionals for help, especially if you know you need to spring clean but you haven’t got the time in your busy work schedule, can be the exact thing you need. They can especially help with certain fixes that you shouldn’t do yourself, such as:

• Pre-season tune-ups (before summer hits)
• Preventive maintenance
• Tightening up electrical connections
• Lubricating moving parts
• If necessary, replacing and installing old systems with newer models

Need some help with the more nitty-gritty details of cleaning and maintaining your HVAC units? Give us a call! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

When it comes to your furnace, it’s not only maintenance and cleaning the unit itself you need to keep in mind. Where your furnace is located, what’s inside nearby, and how to move around—these all matter too. Today, we’re going to take a look at one of the next important furnace maintenance features everyone should be aware of: the room in which the furnace is kept.

Why?

For one simple reason: to make sure the state of your furnace isn’t presenting or present to any risk of flammability. The last thing we want to see happen is a home catch fire! That’s why not only should you venture into this room of your home more often, but also you should understand how best to keep this room as well maintained as the furnace itself. Educating our customers and ensuring their safety and satisfaction with their HVAC units matters to us the most!

Where should my furnace go?

There are a few options, if your furnace isn’t already installed in the home. The basement is one of the most common places, and for a few good reasons. Because HVAC units such as furnaces and hot water heaters are powered by natural gas or electricity, you need to ensure that your furnace has enough space for ventilation purposes. There also needs to be enough space so that repair work or maintenance by your HVAC technician can be completed.

Other potential rooms where a furnace could go (if for some reason the basement doesn’t work) are the garage, attic, confined closets, open spaces, or ground-floor utility rooms. Wherever you decide your furnace must go, you have to ensure that a professional technician is the one who installs it in the first place. DIY’ing your own HVAC installations is not recommended for some good reasons, many of which we discuss in our previous blog post.

Tips on maintaining a good furnace room

Keeping your furnace room clean and safe should be a priority. That means you should avoid putting any of the following objects in or near your furnace:

• Laundry—specifically if they’re hung up against the furnace, or clotheslines are tied to your equipment. This is not only a fire hazard, but also a bad impact against the airflow and the unit’s ability to ventilate properly.
• Kitty litter. The ammonia fumes that come from litter sometimes can circulate throughout your home and even impact airflow.
• Cleaning or laundry products. Store these in airtight containers and in a place away from heat.
• Gasoline, paint thinners, and paint. Plus, any other items considered to be combustible.
• Used filters or old furnace parts. Depending on their state, they could also be fire hazards and space wasters.

If your furnace room doubles as a storage room, you absolutely have to make sure no cardboard boxes or plastic containers lean flush against the furnace either. Again, make sure a path is clear for your technician come maintenance day.

Be sure to bust out the vacuum cleaner regularly! Vacuum around the furnace and its burner compartment to prevent dust buildup.

As far as spacing goes, you should allow for at least 2 feet of clearance around your furnace. That way, in the event maintenance and repairs need to be made, your technician can do them easily. There should be nothing cluttering up accessibility to the air filter, vents, and even any other gas and electrical lines that may not be directly associated with the furnace, but they still are servicing other appliances within the same area.

Finally, make sure the manual for your furnace is within reach in the room where it’s hosted. That way, if something is wrong, you’ll be able to identify it more easily.

Want a professional’s keen eye to check on your furnace room, and even the furnace itself? Get in touch with us. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

We’re not trying to point fingers at anybody in particular when we say this, but we have seen some pretty bad HVAC installations in our time at Rep-Air! We’ve gotten several phone calls asking for help and to many these mistakes may seem obvious to us, but it’s clear it wasn’t obvious to those who made the call.

These three mistakes we cover are some of the worst that we’ve seen (and that’s saying a lot!). Again, we’re not pointing any fingers to anybody in this article—we’re just going to show you what kinds of mistakes we’ve seen in the past, and hopefully you can learn from them in regards to your home’s HVAC.

Mistake 1: Not enough space

As we’ve mentioned in our post regarding this unbelievable installation job, the type of workmanship we see daily for HVAC installations is mind-blowing.

The lack of knowledge about the function of how an A/C system works is very apparent, and what’s worse is the customer paid thousands of dollars to have it installed the way it is in this picture. A minimum clearance of 24 inches between a wall and any obstruction is a manufacture’s spec on most models.

Mistake 2: Obstructions

Some of the objects you wouldn’t think could harm your HVAC unit in fact can! Never, ever let plastic items lean up against the heat exchange component of your furnace, for example in the case of this recycling bag’s unfortunate demise. Thankfully it was cleaned up swiftly upon discovery.

Other obstructions such as the garden hose, trees, bushes, and even patio furniture should never be placed up against or in the way of your heat pumps or central A/C outdoor units. Like we said, give them some space!

Mistake 3: Lack of cleaning or maintenance

Now this mistake is the most common one, but we’ve seen some horrific examples of cooling jobs gone untouched from cleaning for 5 years straight such as this one.

And if you’re a pet owner, filter cleaning for your HVAC units needs to take place more often, otherwise yours could look like this.

All of these mistakes may seem very obvious to some, but it’s clear to us that that’s not the case at all for most. Hopefully by checking out these mistakes, you’ll know when and if it’s time to call in the professionals for help! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-844-218-3362 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!