August 18, 2022

5 Reasons Your Air Conditioner Is Squeaking

When you turn on your air conditioner, do you hear a squeak? This is a sign of an underlying problem with your AC unit that needs to be addressed. Your AC may have accumulated debris near or around it, causing the rattling sound, or it can be caused by an accumulation of dirt in the coils. Various issues can cause these noises, and you need to pinpoint the exact cause of the noise to fix it. Generally, the best way to fix this issue is by calling a licensed HVAC professional to make some necessary adjustments. 1. The Fan Belt Is Worn Out or Misaligned The fan belt is a crucial component of your air conditioner. Like any other mechanical piece, the timing belt must be replaced every few years, depending on usage. If you hear your AC unit making a squeaking noise, it’s likely because one of your belts is worn out and needs replacement. Over time, the fan belt will become worn out or misaligned, causing it to squeak. Misalignment can happen if you move the AC or attempt to repair it yourself. Luckily, adjusting the fan belt is a straightforward and fast process to complete, but this...

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July 10, 2022

Common Problems AC Compressors Develop

The last thing you want on a hot day is for your AC system to stop working. If the AC compressor is the problem, it can result in a big repair bill. Thankfully, many problems with AC compressors are avoidable. What Is an AC Compressor? The AC compressor is inside the outdoor AC unit. It is one of the key components of an AC system, without which cool air wouldn’t be blown into your home. When well-cared for, it’s a component that can last 15 years or more. Refrigerant collects heat from the evaporator. From there it flows to the AC compressor, which compresses it and turns it into a gas. The refrigerant then flows to the condenser coil, where the heat is released outside. It turns back into a liquid and the process is repeated. Dirty Coils There is also a condenser coil in the outdoor AC unit. This part naturally collects dust, dirt, and other debris. When it’s dirty, your AC system has to work harder to cool your home. This extra strain can cause the AC compressor to overheat and break down. To help prevent this, replace the air filter every one to three months. You should...

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June 20, 2022

What Are HVAC Dampers?

HVAC dampers are devices found in your HVAC ductwork that control the flow of warm or cool air. Though vents can also regulate the airflow in a room, dampers installed in your ducts are much more efficient. They can be adjusted so that the air flows into one area of your house and not into others. HVAC dampers are used in zoned systems. In a zoned system, you might not want warm or cooled air in a room or area of your home that’s not being used. Instead, you might want the airflow directed to a room that’s being inhabited. Different Dampers HVAC dampers are usually installed between 4 and 6 feet from the main trunk of the ductwork and near the opening of the pipe that pushes air into the ductwork. This means that, unlike vents, they can prevent air from entering the ducts in the first place. There are different types of HVAC dampers. They include: Butterfly flat dish Guillotine Louvers Blade type The butterfly flat dish type looks like a plate on a hinge. It also has a seal that can stop material from getting into the ducts. Its shape makes it ideal for round ducts. Guillotine...

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May 18, 2022

5 Simple Steps to Unclog Drain Lines in Your AC

Clogged drain lines in your AC can spell trouble, and unfortunately, they’re a pretty common problem. But don’t worry – there are some easy things you can do to clear the line and get your AC up and running again. With just a little patience and effort, you’ll be back to enjoying cool, comfortable air in no time. 1. Turn Off the Power to Your AC Turning off the power to your AC unit will ensure your safety and prevent any damage from occurring. This step is important because it allows you to access the clogged drain with ease and provides more control over the situation. 2. Check the Drain Pan Clogs in the drain pan can prevent water from flowing through smoothly, and if left untreated, these clogs can quickly damage your AC system. There are several factors that can contribute to a clogged drain pan, including buildup of debris or mineral deposits over time. To check for any blockages in this area, simply remove the drain cover and take a look inside. If you notice any signs of a clog such as wet spots or foul odors, you may need to take some additional steps to clean out...

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April 14, 2022

How to Install a Smart Thermostat Like a Pro

A new thermostat installation offers more convenience and increased energy savings. Unlike your old thermostat, a WI-FI thermostat can learn your heating and cooling patterns and adjust the temperature accordingly. Not only that, but you can also connect your smart thermostat to a brand app to remote control it from your phone. You can also check the energy reports to track energy use in your Palm Desert, CA home. While it’s always advisable to schedule professional thermostat installation, you can follow these tips to install your new smart thermostat quickly and safely. Check Compatibility Although smart thermostats work with the vast majority of homes, it’s always a good idea to confirm the compatibility of your HVAC system. Luckily, most brands offer a compatibility checker to help you check on the wiring. Visit the official compatibility checker and follow the instructions. You can also contact reliable heating and cooling technicians in Palm Desert or the surrounding areas to check wire voltage and quality. They will even install a C-Wire adapter if you don’t have it. Gather the Necessary Tools You only need basic electrical wiring knowledge and some tools to install your new WI-FI thermostat. The tools you might need for...

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March 17, 2022

6 Ways to Prepare Your HVAC Unit for Spring

Is your HVAC unit ready for warmer weather? You don’t want to get caught without air conditioning when temperatures begin to climb. Prepare your HVAC unit for spring now with these professional tips. 1. Remove the AC Unit’s Condenser Cover Did you cover your outdoor air conditioner condenser over the winter to protect it from dust, sand, or other debris? If so, make sure to remove the cover before turning on your air conditioner for the first time. While removing the cover, check for any vegetation growth that might have sprouted up around the unit, especially if the condenser is installed at ground level. Remove the debris to prevent impeding heat transfer within the condenser coils. 2. Give Registers and Vents a Good Cleaning Vents and registers can clog from pet hair, dust, and other household debris. Before turning on your air conditioner at the start of the cooling season, give the vents and registers a thorough cleaning. Remove the covers and use your vacuum’s hose attachment to get rid of any dirt. Protect your vents from dirt and debris by keeping your home dusted regularly. Also, keep the vents free of obstructions by ensuring the area around each vent...

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February 14, 2022

4 Tips on the Best Time to Install a New Air Conditioning System

Installing a heating and air conditioning system in your home is an important decision. Selecting the right time to replace your current system can save you money and energy in the long run. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision when selecting a new HVAC system. 1. Consider Your Climate The most effective time to install an air conditioning system is during the spring. When there are the most favorable temperatures, technicians can work efficiently. These are times when electricity rates are lower, so you’ll spend less money on electricity but still get the benefits of having an energy-efficient air conditioning system. It’s also better to avoid installing an AC unit during the summer months as that’s when electricity rates are higher, and people tend to use their AC more often. So, if you want to install a system without spending too much on energy, then it’s best to wait until the fall or spring seasons arrive so that your AC won’t cost too much money. The winter months, on the other hand, should be avoided altogether. Not only is it more challenging for technicians to work in the cold, but it’s also far more likely...

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January 3, 2022

What Questions Should You Ask After Heating Repair Services?

For the average homeowner, having something go wrong with your furnace can be a baffling situation. What caused the problem? How can I prevent it from happening again? Does the issue impact my furnace’s lifespan? Chances are, you have all of these questions and more swirling around in your head. That’s why the technicians from put together a list of questions you can ask to help you understand the furnace repair process. As a company that provides top-notch furnace repairs to Palm Desert homeowners, we’ve encountered almost every furnace issue under the sun, from the simple to the complex. By getting to know what caused the problem, how it was fixed, and how to prevent it from happening again, you can feel more confident in the furnace repair process. What Caused the Problem? Understanding what went wrong with your furnace can help you prevent the issue in the future. For example, if the problem was caused by a clogged furnace filter, you’ll know to change it more regularly going forward. The answer to this question will also help you understand the bigger picture of your furnace’s overall health. If the issue was due to age or wear-and-tear, you’ll be able...

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December 20, 2021

5 Common Furnace Noises and What They Mean

Your furnace is an extremely important appliance, especially during the winter months. So naturally, if yours has started making unusual noises, it can be very disconcerting. The last thing you want is for the appliance that keeps you warm to break down during the coldest time of year. Different furnace sounds can mean different things, though, with some being more worrisome and requiring more significant repairs than others. As a homeowner, if you’re able to identify the separate noises and what they’re a symptom of, it can give you the best chance to handle each situation properly. 1. Loud Banging or Booming An unusual banging or booming noise can be one of the most concerning sounds for a furnace owner, but it isn’t necessarily a major problem. In most cases, this noise will occur with a gas furnace, and it’s most caused by little gas explosions within the appliance. This happens when your furnace’s gas burners aren’t quite igniting on time, and that delay results in buildups. This might be a result of the burners being clogged or contaminated, which is something that a heating technician should be able to take care of. If you let the problem linger, though,...

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November 17, 2021

Best Way to Heat Your Basement

With cooler weather approaching in the Palm Desert area, you may be searching for ways to heat your basement. With increasing electricity costs, you will want to choose a heating option that is energy efficient. Also, you may want to select a heating system that you can regulate. Make sure to conduct research before you select a heating system. To help you choose the best heating option for your basement, we will review some of the available heating systems in the market. Infrared Space Heaters The electric radiant infrared heater works like the sun, where it produces rays that heat a room. The rays will warm the furniture, basement floor, and home occupants. However, an infrared space heater system does not use the air to produce heat. Instead, it produces a light spectrum, invisible to the eye, that will be absorbed by objects and the human skin. These types of heaters have different levels of output, designs, and different controls. Also, they vary in size and price. Advantages Air quality remains the same Achieve instant heat Silent operation Directional heating of surfaces Disadvantages Can cause fires Fails to keep room warm after you switch it off Excessive use can cause...

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