Author: ciwg_CEO@906

dirty air filter vs. clean one dirty air filter vs. clean one

Tips To Keep Your Air Filter Clean

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on November 15, 2022. Posted in air filters.

The fall season brings allergies for some but for others, the answer to their allergy symptoms lies within the walls of their home. If your HVAC system’s air filter remains unchanged, this can lead to poor air quality and issues with the system itself. Air filters are an important part of your system and must be switched every couple of months. They are responsible for keeping larger particles out of your HVAC system and protecting it from harm, in addition to keeping dust and pollen out.

5 Things You Should Do To Maintain A Clean Filter

A big part of ensuring that your HVAC system is running smoothly and efficiently is to keep your air filter clean year-round. We recommend switching out your air filter at least every 90 days for best performance. Doing this will bring many benefits to the table such as improved air quality and extending the lifespan of your HVAC unit. Below are some helpful tips to keep your system’s air filter clean.

Choose the right size and type of filter
Clean the area around it
Consider installing an air filtration system
Keep track of changing dates
Switch to pleated filters

Choose The Right Size And Type Of Filter

Yes, you heard that right! Unfortunately, no air filter is a one-size fits all which is why it is very important for homeowners to become familiar with their system’s air filter. So, don’t just go and buy any filter without checking first.

A simple way to do this is to conduct a visual inspection. Most filters come labeled with two size measurements that can be found along the filter’s side. Often there is a ‘nominal’ size written in big print, and an adjacent ‘actual’ size written in smaller letters. A good way to measure your current filter’s performance is by looking at its minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV. MERV reports a filter’s ability to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping specific types of particles. Based on filter performance along the MERV scale, your home will most likely require a MERV 5 to 8 filter. If you don’t have any allergies or pets, MERV 1 to 4 is acceptable. However, if you have severe allergies, asthma, or lung problems, you should consider installing MERV 10 for additional filtration.

It is important to note that the higher the MERV, the smaller the filter pores. While this traps more pollutants, it also can cause your HVAC system to work harder to push air through. Our expert technicians can help perfectly match an air filter to your system and avoid it becoming overloaded. Give us a call to help select the right air filter for your home in Mission!

Clean The Area Around the Filter

The first protective measure in air filter maintenance is to keep the space around the system clean. Vacuum or wipe away leftover dust accumulation on the system’s external panels before and after replacing the filter as part of your cleaning routine. This practice enhances filter lifetime and performance, allowing it to successfully combat invisible allergens and pollutants.

Consider Installing An Air Filtration System

In recent years, air filtration systems have increased in popularity due to their ability to improve a space’s air quality levels. Installing an air filtration system in your home or office will help remove all sources of dust particles, pet dander, germs and other harmful contaminants that oftentimes contribute to the clogging of air filters. The best air filtration system for your space of choice will be determined by your unique preferences. We recommend you to speak with an expert to determine the best solution for you. At Rep-Air Heating & Cooling, we offer air filtration system services in Mission and surrounding areas and are happy to help you determine the most suitable filtration system for your home.

Keep Track of Changing Dates

Although this tip might seem silly, keeping an ongoing record of the dates when you replaced the filter as a maintenance reminder is key. A smart hack is to write the date of their last filter change on the filter itself to help them keep track. Doing so not only keeps note of when the filter has to be changed, but it also provides details on your system’s current performance. If the time between changes is shorter than usual, this might indicate a problem with the unit or ventilation system that you aren’t aware of.

Consider Switching To Pleated Filters

While fiberglass air filters will do the job, pleated air filters can be superior in most cases. Pleated air filters absorb smaller particles and are less prone to clog over time. Additionally, pleated filters are oftentimes biodegradable or reusable, making them more environmentally friendly, and their deeper pleats provide greater surface area to filter airborne pollutants.

Contact a Rep-Air Technician

Let us help ensure your home’s air quality remains high and HVAC-related costs remain low.
Give us a call at 1-844-218-3362 with any questions regarding your air filters in Mission. We are here to help keep you safe, comfortable, and breathing easy this season!

chnaging filter during heating tune up chnaging filter during heating tune up

Heating Tune Up Checklist

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on October 18, 2022. Posted in Heating tips.

Picture this: Your home is becoming too cool for comfort this fall, so you decide to turn on your heating system. However, your system either will not produce warm air or is not functioning efficiently. Your Rep-Air technician is on the way to identify and solve the problem, but your comfort is sacrificed in the meantime.

To avoid a situation like this, consider having your heating system serviced by a professional this fall! At Rep-Air, our HVAC tune ups can ensure your heating unit is ready the moment you need it. In this blog, we will provide a heating tune up checklist and the benefits it can provide for your home!

What Is A Heating Tune Up?

Your HVAC system should be serviced twice a year, once in the spring and fall. If your heating unit has a problem, your comfort will not be sacrificed due to the pleasant fall temperatures. A heating tune up allows our expert technicians to thoroughly inspect your unit and catch issues before they result in costly ones. Your HVAC system and home will be ready for the cold temperatures winter brings with our heating maintenance services in Mission!

What Is Included In A Tune Up?

Our HVAC professionals in Abbotsford can help ensure your heating system is ready for the workload winter brings. There are different practices for each type of heating unit, but your Rep-Air technician will perform the following tasks for every heating maintenance service:

Lubricate all moving parts
Replace/clean air filter
Ensure thermostat connections
Tighten electrical connections
Check airflow and ductwork
Clean system of debris

Our technicians are trained to service all types of heating units. Give us a call to learn specific tasks for the heating unit your home utilizes, such as furnaces or heat pumps!

Benefits Of A Heating Tune Up

If you take care of your HVAC system, it will take care of you. A well maintained unit will efficiently and effectively heat your home all winter long, so you never have to worry about losing comfort! Below are 5 benefits of heating maintenance.

Improve Energy Efficiency
Lower Utility Bills
Fewer Repairs
Extend Lifespan
Increase Comfort

Improve Energy Efficiency

If your heating system is operating with an underlying issue, it is using more energy. For example: If your air filter is clogged, your unit struggles to push air through the pores, which can result in an overworked system and high energy costs. Heating tune ups allow your Rep-Air technician to catch the issue before it decreases efficiency, raises bills, and breaks down.

Lower Utility Bills

Your heating system is a large part of your utility bills, but there are ways to keep costs low. Heating maintenance makes sure your unit is using minimal energy to function. However, if your unit is operating with a malfunction, energy usage and bills can rise.

Fewer Repairs

HVAC repairs can be hard to predict until it’s too late. Some internal issues can only be seen by a professional eye, which is why heating maintenance is necessary. Your heating unit will experience fewer repairs by scheduling heating tune ups, which can save money on technician calls and parts.

Extend Lifespan

Similar to annual doctor visits, your HVAC system will be much healthier if seen by a professional. Regular heating tune ups are essential to its lifespan, because the unit will have less problems and breakdowns. Simply put: the less repairs your heating unit requires, the longer it will last.

Increase Comfort

Winter temperatures can leave your home uncomfortably chilly if you experience a breakdown. If heating efficiency is increased, your home will maintain a comfortable temperature throughout. Heating tune ups can ensure you and your family stay warm and cozy all season long, because our expert technicians can help prevent extra repairs.

The winter season brings many activities, which is why a heating unit breakdown should be the last of your worries. A heating system tune up can prevent problems in the future and maintain your comfort. Give us a call to schedule a heating tune up in Mission and surrounding areas this fall!

Signs Your AC Is Going To Breakdown

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on September 9, 2022. Posted in AC tips.

As we approach the last few weeks of summer, many have cooler weather on the brain. However, air conditioning season is not over quite yet! It is important to ensure your air conditioner is working properly before the season ends. In this article, we will discuss common warning signs that indicate your AC is about to break down.

Warning Signals

Your air conditioner will often show signs it is about to go out, so it is important to pay attention to the following signs to avoid a breakdown!

Unusual Smells
Decreased Airflow
Lack Of Cool Air
High Humidity
Decline In Air Quality

Unusual Smells

Like any other operating machine, an uncommon smell coming out of your AC unit might indicate there is an underlying issue present.

Burning smell: Possible mechanical or wiring issues
Rotten egg smell: Possible gas leak
Moldy smell: Possible clogged drain line or dirty coils

Your air conditioner may produce other smells, but most of them indicate your unit has a problem that needs to be addressed!

Decreased Airflow

A good way to determine if there is weak air flow is to stand underneath all of your home’s vents and measure the strength of the air flow. Low air flow might indicate there is a problem with the air filters. It is possible that one or more air filters have been clogged by dust particles or pet dandruff, which prevents air from blowing through the vents efficiently. Most HVAC technicians recommend that homeowners change their air filters approximately every 3 months. Other causes of low air flow include:

Pressure imbalance
Obstructed condenser unit
Blocked or leaky ducts
Thermostat issues

Lack Of Cool Air

Is your thermostat set to cooling mode, but no cool air is being blown out? Oftentimes, a refrigerant leak is to blame for. A refrigerant leak occurs when tiny holes appear in the coils of your AC due to intense pressure. If you suspect this may be the cause, listen closely for any unusual hissing, or in more serious cases, gurgling noises. Your best bet would be to contact one of our experienced technicians right away, due to a simple leak possibly leading to a costly breakdown.

High Humidity

Humidity in Mission is at its peak in the summer seasons and can be uncomfortable if levels are high in your home. Your air conditioner works to reduce humidity as well as cool your home. If you notice your home is muggy and uncomfortable, it could be a sign your air conditioner needs repair because it is struggling to remove humidity. One cause of raised levels are frozen AC coils. This means the refrigerant within the coil cannot absorb heat to reduce the air temperature and remove moisture from the air because of the ice and frost on the coil surface. When this happens, it is recommended for homeowners to turn their AC completely off for a couple of hours. Turning all your ceiling fans on and closing your shades will provide some relief from the heat. You should also avoid leaving any doors or windows open because this will allow the cool air to escape from your home.

Decline In Air Quality

Have you noticed the indoor air quality decline during the summer months? Maybe the air feels heavy, or maybe your allergies are acting up out of nowhere. This can indicate that your ducts need to be cleaned or that your compressor or capacitor is malfunctioning. Our technicians offer thorough duct cleaning services that will improve your home’s indoor air quality by:

Eliminating mold, fungal spores and mildew
Helping reduce symptoms of asthma and allergies
Improving HVAC efficiency

Contact The Pros At Rep-Air!

If you suspect there is a problem with your AC, don’t panic. We got you covered! Give us a call at 1-844-218-3362 with any questions or ask for additional tips on what steps to take next. We are here to keep you cool and comfortable for the rest of the summer!

comfortable in the summer comfortable in the summer

AC Tips This Summer

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on August 16, 2022. Posted in AC tips, Uncategorized.

The warmest days in Mission are here, and you shouldn’t be worried if your AC will make it through the rest of summer. Your air conditioner is likely working overtime to keep up with the warm temperatures, so it is important to ensure its health. This blog will provide effective AC summer tips all homeowners should be aware of when overcoming a heat wave.

Keep Cool With These AC Tips!

Below are 5 AC tips to help your air conditioner this summer.

– Schedule an AC tune-up
– Set your thermostat to the right temperature
– Consider installing a smart thermostat
– Shade the condenser
– Weatherize the windows and doors

Schedule A Tune-Up

Your air conditioner should be serviced twice a year to prevent costly repairs and breakdowns. Your Rep-Air technician can ensure your system is working properly, so you aren’t stranded in the heat. We encourage homeowners to schedule AC tune-ups in the fall and spring to prepare for the drastic temperatures each season brings.

Set Your Thermostat To The Right Temperature

If you raise your home’s temperature when your home is vacant during the day, it will likely lower your cooling bill. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), you can save 5 to 15% on your cooling costs by maintaining your house at 85°F for eight hours each day during the peak cooling season. Of course, few people are willing to trade in their comfort to save a few bucks, so using a programmable thermostat could be a smart investment.

Consider Installing A Smart Thermostat

Smart or programmable thermostats allow you to remotely control the temperature of your home through a mobile device. These thermostats give you access to your home’s heating and cooling system and enable you to program the temperature of your house on an automated basis, making your house as comfortable as possible during the day and night. In recent years, smart thermostats have increased in popularity due to their many advantages which include:

Learning patterns: Their technology levels have the ability to incorporate learning algorithms that help you set the most efficient temperature depending on your schedule.
Saving you time: They’re easy to use and allow you to control your home’s temperature even when you’re out and about!
Saving you money on electricity bills: They give your HVAC system a break by providing you with the option to cool your home only while you’re in it.

Shade The Condenser

The condenser is the outdoor component of your air conditioner which either collects or releases heat depending on the time of the year. A simple way to prevent your condenser from overworking would be to cover it from direct sunlight. Creating a favorable environment for your condenser will prevent it from overheating and working harder than it should. To shade your condenser, you might want to consider planting a tree or two to block direct sunlight, but make sure to leave enough space for air circulation.

Weatherize Windows and Doors

Inspecting your home for possible leaks can save you a great amount of trouble in the future. Small cracks on your doors and windows may seem harmless, but they actually contribute to cool air flowing out of your home and making your air conditioner work harder.

Contact The Pros At Rep-Air!

Believe us when we say that we know how frustrating battling a heat wave might be. Don’t worry, we got you covered! Give us a call at 844-218-3362 with any questions or ask for additional tips on how to ensure your AC continues to run efficiently. We are here to keep you cool and comfortable this summer!

Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on July 25, 2022. Posted in AC tips.

Days are heating up here in Mission, BC, and you need to have a reliable air conditioner to combat the heat. Your air conditioner works harder in the summer months to keep up with the harsh temperature summer brings. An underlying issue and an overworked air conditioner is a recipe for a breakdown or repair. In this blog, we have listed potential reasons to explain why your air conditioner is not blowing cold air.

AC Blowing Warm Air?

Below are 5 of the most common problems that may explain why your AC is acting up. Give us a call to help repair your air conditioner and ensure your comfort again!

Thermostat Issues
Leaking Refrigerant
Dirty Or Clogged Air Filter
Dirty Condenser
Broken Compressor

1. Thermostat Issues

If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air, first check your thermostat. Ensure that your thermostat is up and running. If it is, check if it’s set correctly. It should be set in the “cool” setting and read your desired temperature. If your thermostat seems to be working properly and in the correct settings, it may be a communication issue.

2. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a chemical compound that helps your air conditioner cool down air by absorbing the heat from the inside of your home and pumping it outside. When a leak is present, the refrigerant is unable to absorb that heat, stopping or decreasing the amount of warm air that is pumped out of your home. A leak can occur through:

Age-related wear and tear
Formicary corrosion, which is when the Formaldehyde gas used by the refrigerant creates holes in the copper tubes of your AC

A leak shouldn’t be taken lightly as it could cause more issues with your unit. If you notice or suspect that your refrigerant is leaking, contact your Rep-Air technician for a quick and affordable fix.

3. Dirty Or Clogged Air Filter

As most homeowners know, changing your air filter is essential to air conditioner efficiency and should be done regularly. Failing to do so can cause a clogged air filter, which restricts the airflow in your home. Below are factors that contribute to a clogged air filter:

Dust particles
Pet dandruff
Certain cooking or beauty products fumes
Indoor moisture

Ensure your home has a clean air filter if your unit is blowing warm air.

4. Dirty Condenser

The portion of the air conditioner that collects heat is called a condenser. The condenser is located on the outside of your air conditioner, which means it is exposed to outdoor elements. Dirt and debris such as grass clippings and leaves can easily enter and interfere with your system. When the condenser gets dirty, your air conditioner works twice as hard, because it reduces its ability to transfer heat to the outside air. Luckily, a dirty condenser can be easily cleaned with soap and water by gently removing the dirt with a cloth. If your condenser is prone to dirt and you find yourself having to constantly clean it, you might want to invest in a weatherproof cover when it’s not being used.

5. Broken Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your AC system. It transports refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. Too much or too little refrigerant can lead to a broken compressor, because it creates too much pressure and causes it to strain.

Contact a Rep-Air Technician

We understand how frustrating and uncomfortable it is when your air conditioner is broken. Give us a call at 1-844-218-3362 with any questions regarding your air conditioner blowing warm air. We are here to help keep you cool and comfortable this summer!

7 Ways To Save On Air Conditioning Costs

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on July 25, 2022. Posted in AC tips.

Did you know that heating and cooling can make up to 50% of your electric bill? The summertime brings the warmest months, which can cause your air conditioner to work overtime and raise your cooling costs. Staying cool and comfortable should not break the bank, so in this article we have provided 7 ways to save on air conditioning costs this summer.

Below are some of our tips and tricks to staying cool and saving money on your utility bill in this summer:

Regular AC Maintenance
Keep Your Blinds And Curtains Closed
Use Ceiling Fans
Replace Your Air Filters
Switch To LED Light Bulbs
Utilize A “Smart” Thermostat
Seal Leaks

1. Regular AC Maintenance

Making sure that your air conditioner is working properly is the most important part of ensuring a low utility and repair bill. Scheduling a preventative AC maintenance appointment every spring is necessary to ensure that your AC lives a prolonged life, free of issues. Even though your air conditioner may not have visible issues, a technician is able to point out less-obvious problems that homeowners tend to overlook.

2. Keep Your Blinds And Curtains Closed

Is there a particular area in your home that tends to stay warm no matter how much you crank up the AC? The sun might be to blame, and closing your blinds or curtains can help keep that area cool. Sunlight entering your home adds unnecessary heat gain, which causes your home to warm up and your AC to work harder.

3. Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans have been around for a long time, and chances are your home has more than one installed! Even though your ceiling fan uses electricity to run, it can actually help lower your monthly bills. Turning your fans on can provide some relief from the summer heat by producing a fresh breeze as needed which prevents homeowners from constantly turning down the temperature.

4. Replace Your Air Filters

We recommend replacing your air filters every 90 days to maximize energy efficiency and keep your bills low. Dust particles can accumulate in the filter and block the cool air from coming through, causing your air conditioner to work harder. If you have furry friends at home, consider replacing your filters more often.

5. Switch To LED Bulbs

Switching to LED bulbs can contribute to decreasing the heat levels inside your home, because they produce less heat and use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Although switching to all LED’s around your home might not make a significant difference right away, it will help with electricity bill-related costs in the long-run.

6. Use A “Smart” Thermostat

A programmable or “smart” thermostat is programmed to regulate the temperature of your home based on a series of preset settings that take effect at different times of the day. Installing a “smart” thermostat can help your air conditioner by allowing it to only work hard when needed.

7. Seal Leaks

Any inner and outer cracks in your windows, doors, and walls of your home might be contributing to heat coming in. For smaller air leaks, a cost effective option to seal cracks is by caulking or weather stripping. To ensure you seal leaks properly, consider hiring a professional technician to closely inspect your home and seal any leaks that are making your AC unnecessarily work harder.

Contact The Pros at Rep-Air!

Let us help ensure your air conditioner is running efficiently this summer to help you save on cooling expenses. Give us a call for any air conditioning maintenance, repair, or replacement needs this summer in the Mission, British Columbia area!

How to Cut Down on AC Usage and Costs

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on June 18, 2021. Posted in General, Uncategorized.

5 Ways To Lower Your Air Conditioning Costs This Summer

It’s getting warm out day by day (and even at night), so you know what that means: it’s time to put your air conditioner to use. Now, this can either mean a great thing or a bad thing, depending on one crucial aspect: money. It’s a fact that using AC does indeed cost you a lot whenever you run it. That’s because of several factors, such as the energy usage and the electricity used to run the system, both of which impact your utility bills.

Some of you may be wondering “I know this and I want to save money, but I also want to stay comfortable. What can I do?” If this sounds like your train of thought, we’re here to guide you. Here are some tips on how to cut down on your AC usage and costs.

Don’t Leave the AC on Full Blast All the Time

You may be surprised, but it’s actually fine to leave on air conditioning nearly all of the time if you leave it at a low enough temperature. What will actually spike your expenses is when you set the unit to provide cooling at full blast and leave that on all the time. Electricity is what an air conditioner uses the most of and it’s what will cost you the most money more than anything. By being forced to go at full blast, whether all day long or in intervals, you’re putting pressure on your unit that will shorten both its efficiency at cooling your home down and its life span from the strain of being turned off and then on again.

The effectiveness of your unit’s ability to cool air down and the unit itself can also determine whether one should leave the A/C on all day or turn it off at intervals. For example, if you own a central A/C system and it hasn’t been updated since you moved in 20 years ago, it’s definitely inefficient when it comes to energy and costs compared to a brand new air conditioning system made last year. You also definitely should not turn your A/C off during a heat wave, because it’ll make the indoor air’s heat rise faster and then your unit will spend a lot of time and energy while getting the air back down to an ideal temperature. In this case, it makes more sense to leave your air conditioner on all day (again though, not at full blast).

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be set to the desired temperature whether at night or when you’re away from your home. Some can be installed directly into your home, while others actually come with their own app on your phone or other mobile device. It’s a good way to ensure you can adjust the temperature if needed, even when you’re not present to change the thermostat yourself.

Keep the Unit Clean

We know it sounds redundant, but that’s because it’s true. Keeping any HVAC unit clean, whether for cooling down or warming up a space, can make a real difference in both costs and your energy usage. We recommend you perform these regular tasks before, during, and after the summer season for best results:

Clean or replace the air filter, usually every 3 months or once a month if you have pets or kids
Tidy up the exterior and wipe away any accumulating dust or dirt
Before and after the summer is over, take some time to clean the fans and vents connecting to the air circulation

For more tips on taking care of your air conditioner prior to any heat waves, you can check out our previous blog post “How to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for the Warmer Seasons“. These tips can apply to during and after summer is over as well.

Invest in Ceiling Fans

If you can afford a ceiling fan or have the right home for it, this will improve things slightly and ensure you can use the cool air you have without relying on the air conditioner so much. Your ceiling fan should be set to rotate counter clockwise in the summer so that the air gets pushed down and you get that desired cool breeze. Remember to switch the fans around come wintertime in order to ensure the heat stays at the bottom of the room where you need it, since heat always rises.

Update Your Windows Slightly

If you keep feeling hot when standing next to a window, chances are there’s a tiny hole forming and you may need to get the caulk fixed. Caulking will seal any holes where cool air in the summer or hot air in the winter can leak out. In terms of staying cooler, you can always use film to tint your windows. This will make a room darker so that the sunlight doesn’t make the heat rise in your home so much. Most film for windows can be sized up and then applied yourself.

Need a More Up-to-Date Air Conditioner?

A new AC system or unit will seem expensive at first glance, but when you add together the cost of maintenance and repairs for a system that’s older and failing constantly, it makes more sense to upgrade. Our technicians can install new HVAC for you if your current system is no longer running as efficiently as it should and you want to stay cool this summer while keeping costs low. Let us know when you contact us if you’d like even more tips on how to save your money. 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!

What You Need to Know Before Having an Air Conditioner Installed

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on June 9, 2021. Posted in General, Uncategorized.

The idea of owning an air conditioner while the months are hot and the days are long is a pleasant one. AC units can help people live more comfortably and in most cases they come built in with an air filter to keep the air both cool and fresh.

Keep in mind that just because you want your home to stay cool during the summer doesn’t mean you should simply go out and buy one if you don’t have one. All HVAC systems should be seriously considered an investment before you buy and install one, not a mere impulse purchase. Here’s what you need to know before you purchase and have your new air conditioner installed.

Think about more than simply cooling

Air conditioners are not simply machines–they are expensive and require a lot of your forethought before you buy. It not only cools down a room, but also determines how comfortable you are in your space.

Most air conditioners nowadays do more than cool down a room, too. Some of the modern air conditioners on the market can throw hot air into the room to make it more comfortable in winter, such as reversible A/C units and ductless heat pumps. If humidity is a problem in your home, most cooling units can remove the unwanted heat that comes with it. And of course, don’t forget about some of the other handy features such as a timer, remote control, and ventilation to help you use the cooling system only when you need, rather than let it run always.

Do you have the time?

If you live a busy lifestyle, you’re going to have to make some adjustments to that schedule because an air conditioner requires a lot more out of your attention than you might realize. All HVAC units require maintenance for at least every third month of the year in order to ensure it stays clean and its lifespan isn’t shortened from neglect.

Tending to your air conditioner outside of regular technician appointments is also going to be the only way to prevent further repair problems going forward. If you can’t find the time to do even that, then renting an air conditioner as opposed to buying one outright may be the better choice for you.

Online buyers, beware

There’s a valid reason why us technicians wholeheartedly recommend buying all-inclusive, i.e. where the contractor provides both the A/C unit and installation. It’s because when you buy a certain unit online, there comes with it an entire slew of problems and extras you’ll have to go through:

DIY installation requires permits that you may not be able to get unless you’re a licensed contractor;
You could purchase the wrong sized unit by accident;
The unit could show up damaged in the delivery process;
You could end up lacking in the proper paperwork needed to run your system;
It’ll be 10 times more expensive since if your purchased the wrong size, you’ll have to buy another one right after

It may cost more to do initially, but choosing a licensed HVAC technician can ensure you pick the correct size for your space and get a unit that’s exact for your needs. It’ll also save you a ton of money and time in the long run compared to buying online.

Always check on the SEER rating

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is the quintessential system that rates an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. You want this ratio to be high in its number because it’s a ratio of both the unit’s cooling output and the energy used by your system. So, the higher the SEER’s value is, the more efficient your system is.

Keep in mind that having your air conditioner properly installed by a professional technician will also have a hand in how efficiently your system uses energy and overall performs.

Location matters big time

The area where your new air conditioner should be installed matters a ton, because if it’s improperly placed then the unit won’t function the way you hoped, plus it may interfere with other objects such as electronics if you’re not careful. In order to figure out the best location, we recommend these general guidelines for heat pumps:

Your air conditioner’s outdoor unit should at least have 12-24 inches (1-2 feet) of space all around, with no objects in that space
The air conditioner should not be placed in either hot areas or areas where frequent foot traffic occurs
The place should be level, ideally on a pad that’s elevated so that the air conditioner’s condenser avoids contact with heavy rain and snow in the winter months

In addition, if your air conditioner is less of a heat pump and more of a wall-mounted indoor unit, here’s what we recommend you do:

The indoor unit should be at least 7 feet above your floor, with at least 6 inches (1/2 foot) of space both above the unit and on every side
Keep the unit away from other heat sources, such as the oven or direct sunlight
Electronics, cables, Wi-Fi modems, and even mobile devices should not be placed near indoor A/C units; keep these about 3 feet away to avoid electrical noise and interference, which is commonly associated with these devices
Furniture should be kept away so that it doesn’t obstruct the unit’s airflow
The indoor wall should be strong enough to support the unit for years, so ask for your technician to double-check the integrity of the wall and fasten the unit where needed.

Ready to cool off?

We want our customers to have the best cooling solutions that suit their homes or commercial buildings the most. Our technicians are certified and experienced with installing HVAC systems, so if you reside in the Lower Mainland and need an installation, don’t hesitate to 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!

5 Causes of an Air Conditioner Failure You Need to Know About

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on April 22, 2021. Posted in Uncategorized.

Sometimes no matter how well we treat things like our air conditioning, there are some elements that end up causing your unit to fail when it’s needed the most. Thankfully, the majority of these problems can usually be fixed or maintained by a technician. However, it’s a good idea to fully understand the main causes of why an air conditioner’s failure may occur. That way, you can get a repair job done more smoothly if and when the time comes and in some cases prevent these failures from happening in the first place. So with that said, let’s go over five major causes of an air conditioner failure and what can be done about them.

A clogged air filter

This is one of the easiest problems to both detect and prevent from getting worse. A clogged air filter will not only deter cool air from flowing in and out, but also it will force the unit to work harder than it needs to in order to produce the cooled air effect. The unit itself can’t tell why it’s clogged in the first place. That’s why it’s up to us to remove the filter and either clean it out or replace the too-dirty or dusty filter with a new one. Whichever you do to avert this completely preventable failure will depend on the make and model of your air conditioner.

Electrical problems

A failure in your A/C unit can happen from a few electrical problems:

Poor electrical connections. These are more frequently seen in air conditioners that are well past their warranty and are old.
Bad wiring. This can happen as a result of wires deteriorating, corrosion, or faulty wires. Bad wiring can be best identified should your circuit breaker be tripped constantly while the air conditioner is on.
Overheated capacitors and contactors. A lot of electrical charge goes into these components, which creates the potential for them to get extra hot. When the outside temperature rises, even more heat will be generated from these two parts and thus cause failures.

The majority of electrical problems should never, ever be handled as a DIY project since the end result could end up being fatal electrocution. Diagnosing and fixing the problem is best left to a professional technician.

Damaged components

An air conditioner is built up of several components, a few of which we mentioned before are electrical. The two parts that are most likely to cause the entire cooling system to fail include:

The fans/fan motors. There are two fans that are typically found inside of an A/C unit. One blows air over the outdoor A/C unit’s condenser to expel absorbed heat outside of the building, and the other blows the indoor air over the evaporator coil to cool it down. The motors for these fans can fail if they’re faulty. Other causes of the fans failing is too much dirt and debris buildup, wear and tear to the belts, or a lack of lubrication.
The compressor. Losing this part is the equivalent of a death sentence for your air conditioner, sadly. It’s the heart of the system and the most difficult to replace on its own. An entire replacement of the system itself is recommended in case this component fails you.

A faulty thermostat

This is another component that if it fails on its own means trouble. The thermostat is what informs the air conditioner when to turn on and off in order to keep your home at your desired temperature. However, it’s possible for a thermostat to get out of calibration or break, which will cause the temperature in your home to fluctuate.

That’s why if your air conditioner is failing, be sure to check the thermostat first and make sure it’s reading the temperature properly. If it is, then the issue lies with another component connected to it. Again, this task is best left to a technician to diagnose and treat since there are several underlying causes of a faulty thermostat.

Frozen Coils

Frozen coils are what happen when there’s a problem with airflow and the evaporator’s coil gets too cold. It sounds counter-productive, but heat is what needs to be absorbed in order for your unit to cool the air down. The heat is typically soaked in by the refrigerant located inside of the evaporator coil. If the coil is frozen however, then a lack of cool air or warm air is what your unit is going to produce instead.

How to Prevent These Causes

The majority of these causes may require a technician’s touch to resolve. However, you can prevent these causes from happening to your A/C unit by doing the following:

Clean out or replace the air filter before switching the A/C on.
Inspect the unit’s more delicate parts for potential cracks or damage.
Do an exterior tidy-up, especially for heat pumps.
Perform cleaning and maintenance tasks regularly, not just once in a while or as soon as you remember you own an air conditioner.
Ask your technician to check on the more vulnerable and complex components, such as the capacitor, the compressor, and the thermostat.

For more preventive maintenance tips please refer to our previous blog post “How to Prepare Your Air Conditioning for the Warmer Seasons.”

Need Some Help Before Summer Hits?

Take action now while it’s spring as opposed to reaching out for help during summer. Spring is a low season for the HVAC industry, so if you need someone to spend time on fixing or tuning up your A/C unit, we’ve got you covered. 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!

How to Prepare Your Air Conditioning for the Warmer Seasons

Written by ciwg_CEO@906 on April 1, 2021. Posted in General, Uncategorized.

Spring is starting to heat up the air at last, and for some areas in the Lower Mainland, maybe a little too much so! This season is a low one for us technicians, which is why it’s a good time to really think ahead and get some things ready while you’re spring cleaning meanwhile. If your area’s already getting a little too warm to handle, you may be considering putting the A/C on, and this is where we can help. Here are some tips on how to prepare your air conditioning system for the warmer months that lie ahead of us.

Why Now and Not Later?

Some of you may be experiencing more rain than heat and are probably wondering why we’ve decided to talk about this now, as opposed to later when it’s actually more like summer. There are actually a few good reasons for this:

It’s been a while since you looked at your A/C. Now that your furnace is becoming less relied on with the snow melting and the air warming up outside, it’s easy to realize that it’s been several months since you looked at your air conditioning. That system is going to need more than a simple on and off switch in order to function the way you want it to.
It’ll cost you less money down the road. As the years go on we’ve been having more summers in the Lower Mainland where we keep saying “I can’t believe it’s THIS hot out!” Having the A/C on all of the time means a lot of money being spent, so the less efficiently your air conditioner is running, the more likely it is you’re going to waste valuable dollars. You can save more money by prepping your A/C unit now as opposed to waiting until later.
It’s smart to look before you switch it on. With all that time spent off, you may find there’s some dust accumulation (which is a very bad thing!) among other things. Preparing now as opposed to later will mean that the process of switching things on will go a lot more smoothly.
You’re avoiding future problems. By examining your air conditioning now, you’re going to be able to spot problems that may occur down the road. If you do spot something you’re not sure about, you can definitely mention this to your HVAC technician next time you ask for an inspection. And now while it’s spring is a great time to ask us, because like we said, spring is a low season and a less busy one, so we have more time to look at your system and ensure everything is working the way it should be.

As you can see, there are a lot of great reasons to look at preparing ahead of time. Let’s go ahead and see what we can do to get ready for the warmer seasons.

Step 1: Check the Age of Your System

How long have you owned your air conditioner now? It’s worth looking at the owner’s manual or the details outlined on the machine itself. Some models come with that information on them, depending on their manufacturer. If the date is under 5 years, that’s great—you don’t have to worry about things like warranty for a while. However, if you’re looking at a machine that’s getting past its 10-15 years of usage, it’s probably time to consider getting that system replaced. Your HVAC technicians can take care of the rest.

Move on to step 2 if the age of your system is good to go.

Step 2: Make Sure the Power is Off

This may seem basic, but it matters because it involves your safety. Turn off the air conditioner at its service panel. Some air conditioners also possess a disconnection box, which typically consists of levers, fuses, or a circuit breaker. Be sure that the power is switched off here too.

Performing this task will enable you to look at the condenser in your air conditioner without being electrocuted by accident (one of the main parts you will need to examine while prepping your A/C). Because there’s typically a capacitor inside of the condenser, you should allow 30 minutes to pass in order for the electrical charge inside of the capacitor to dissipate. It’s a good idea to switch off the power to your other HVAC systems as well, such as the furnace, to truly ensure your safety.

Step 3: Clean Out the Air Filters

This step is the easiest to do since it doesn’t require much work other than grabbing the vacuum cleaner or finding replacement filters. Depending on the type of unit you own, you can either take this part out and clean it thoroughly before putting it back inside, or you can take the old one out if it’s grungy and replace it with a clean one.

It’s recommended to replace or clean this at least twice a year or more based on how much dust tends to accumulate. Doing this step will ensure that the dust and dirt buildup won’t circulate throughout the rest of your home.

Step 4: Clean Up the Condenser and Coils

Another fairly manageable task is to clear up any debris or dirt accumulating near these parts of your air conditioner. For central A/C units, this is located outside in the form of a large metal box with grilles covering fan blades. The coils are typically seen as radiator style fins, and this is where air must pass through the cooling process. Dirt can also accumulate on these coils, so you need to clean these up too before turning your air conditioning on. Otherwise, you won’t get as efficient a cooling job of the air that you need, plus it puts a strain on your system while increasing the money spent on energy.

To clean these parts, first unscrew the side panels and pull them away from the unit, then lift the top (be careful—this part may be heavy because of the weight of the fan). Do not pull any wires that are connected to the fan. Use the soft brush of your vacuum cleaner to gently clean the coils. Do not bend or damage these coils as they are very delicate; if you do end up bending one, use a fin comb which was made for this very purpose. Vacuum the coils both outside and inside.

To clean the condenser, scoop out any debris before anything else. Then, use the same soft brush of your vacuum cleaner and a rag to wipe down the fan blades. If your condenser has a drain, make sure this is clear and no debris is present there too.

Step 5: Check Up on the Thermostat

This step is very simple. Check the switches on the thermostat to ensure they are set to ‘on’ and ‘cool’. If you don’t see a digital display of the temperature, then the batteries need to be replaced. Depending on the type of thermostat your A/C uses, you will need the exact kind of batteries in order for it to function properly.

You can ask your technician to change the batteries and run a more thorough examination if you’d prefer.

Step 6: Run a Test

Once everything has been put back together and you’re finishing cleaning and checking things over, it’s time to test the air conditioner out. This will help you be certain that your unit will run as smoothly and efficiently as you need it to when the hot weather strikes. Again, make sure your thermostat is set to ‘cool’ otherwise the test may not work!

If you still find that you’re not getting the cool air that’s typical of your system, the problem may lie deeper and will require a technician to examine and diagnose it.

Important Tips

While you’re preparing your air conditioner, it’s a good idea to keep these tips in mind:

If at any point you detect something wrong as you’re prepping the A/C, turn the system off right away. Make note of what just happened, and then contact your technician about it.
Don’t handle any electrical parts or problems yourself. Leave those tasks to a professional.
Check on the air filters even when it’s not summer and replace them if needed. This is a no exception type of rule since it concerns your health!
Be sure to keep an eye on your furnace while performing these tasks as well. Sometimes airflow problems are connected to this system as well.

Need an inspection? Let us know

We’re licensed contractors who have spent years inspecting and ensuring that air conditioners are good to go before the summer heat really sinks in. If you’ve run into a hitch while preparing your A/C and following these steps, or you need a professional pair of eyes to find trouble before it starts, 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!