Chad's AC Direct Archives - Page 9 of 27

How To Reduce Cooling Costs During the Summer

Save Money and Stay Cool

Since the invention of the air conditioner, folk wisdom has existed to prevent energy bills from getting out of hand. There is a reason that stereotypes about kids touching dad's thermostat exist. With the cost of energy always increasing and the cost of living worsening, people need to try everything they can to keep cooling bills low without making life miserable. Luckily, there is an authority that can help to clear up the facts and fiction about reducing cooling bills. Here is some advice from local HVAC specialists to help homeowners reduce cooling costs while staying cool.

Utilize Ceiling Fans as They Were Intended

Before air conditioning was common in homes, people beat the summer heat with indoor fans. Even now, ceiling fans are standard in multiple home rooms, but most people have forgotten how effectively they can keep a space cool. The easiest way to remember which direction the fan should spin in the winter is to understand how the body cools itself. The body is constantly sweating, albeit in small amounts.

As air causes the sweat to evaporate, the body is cooled. The more air that rushes past the skin, the faster the evaporation and the more cooling effect is present. During the summer, making the fan spin counterclockwise causes a draft of air to rush downward from the fan, quickly cooling anyone under it. In the winter, the fan is reversed, so the draft is pushed upward, mixing the warm air near the ceiling with the cooler air pooling near the floor.

Remember AC Filter Changes

As every homeowner knows, there are chores associated with owning a home. Take out the trash once a week, clean the flowerbeds every spring, and pay bills on time. With all these recurring responsibilities, it can be easy to forget to do some very important things. One thing that homeowners should make every attempt to remember is air filter changes, especially during the summer.

Air filters help to remove dust from the air to keep the home healthier and protect the AC equipment from dust buildup. They also have a dramatic impact on the cooling bills during the summer. When air filters get dirty, air can't effectively flow through the filter media. As the filter clogs, airflow is continuously reduced, causing the air conditioner to work harder to move the same amount of air around. Even the slightest restriction can cause a noticeable increase in the runtime of the air conditioner. Remember to change air filters at least every three months to keep bills low. In some cases, changing air filters more often will be more beneficial.

Install a Smart Thermostat

Folk wisdom aside, smart thermostats are the future wave that implements the wisdom of the past. The truth is the best way to reduce cooling bills is to turn the AC on as little as possible. Smart thermostats automatically handle this process so that the home is allowed to warm during the day when no one is present. When people return home, the smart thermostat has already begun the cooling process, resulting in less total runtime while keeping the home cool.

About Chad's AC Direct

Chad's AC Direct helps homeowners save money with AC maintenance service and reliable repairs. The company's core value of transparency is providing all pricing upfront with handwritten, itemized estimates. Call today for AC service in Montgomery, AL.

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3 Signs It's Time for Air Duct Repair

How To Determine if Damaged Ductwork Is Sapping the Air Conditioner’s Efficiency

Like many parts of a household's overall system, a home's air ducts are usually out of sight and out of mind. So when homeowners start experiencing issues with their HVAC system, the ducts are often the last thing that comes to mind. Unfortunately, this can lead to false assumptions about what's going on, which can waste valuable time and money trying to troubleshoot the HVAC system or the thermostat! Luckily, there are three main ways to tell if there's a problem with the home's ductwork, and this article will cover them all. Read on to find out how to spot damaged ductwork!

Too Much Dust

One easy-to-see telltale sign that the air ducts might be a problem is dust. While a certain amount of dust is expected in the house, excessive dust can be a sign that something's amiss. When air ducts have holes in them, dust from the attic or under the floors could be pulled in and transferred throughout the house by the HVAC system.

Watching an air vent when the air conditioner comes on is a good way to gauge how much dust is too much. If a visible plume of dust erupts from the vent when the unit kicks on, it's a good indication of an issue with the ducts. At the very least, it's time for a duct cleaning to help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. However, a damaged duct is a much larger problem that needs to be addressed immediately.

Not Enough Air

Spreading dust and dirt throughout the house is just one problem with damaged ducts. A bigger problem is the air leak that accompanies damaged ductwork. If the problem is severe enough, it can cause significant airflow problems, preventing the air conditioner from getting the house to the right temperature. This is because some cool air escapes through the damaged ducts. This, in turn, causes the air conditioner to work harder as it tries to cool the house, which can cause unneeded wear and tear on the system's components.

Air duct repair makes it easy to deal with this problem and get things back on track. In the muggy Alabama summers, homeowners want their air conditioners to work as efficiently as possible!

Bills Keep Climbing

When cool air is allowed to escape from damaged ductwork, it inevitably causes the air conditioner to work harder. And when the air conditioner works harder, the monthly energy bill goes up. No one likes a climbing utility bill, and while things like regular maintenance and filter changes can help, they won't do much good if the ductwork is damaged.

When a professional HVAC technician inspects the air ducts, they can find any damaged areas or blockages. Ductwork repair is generally quick and efficient when done by a professional. And if the issue isn't with the air ducts, the technician will get to the bottom and make the needed repairs quickly!

About Chad's AC Direct

Chad's AC Direct has proudly served Montgomery, AL, for years. They offer no-surprise pricing, red-carpet service, and personal attention. They also pride themselves on being honest and hassle-free. Contact them today for air duct repair in Montgomery, AL!

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Get Healthier by Improving Indoor Air Quality

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Why Is Clean Indoor Air So Important?

People are spending more time indoors, especially during the summer when they stay inside to beat the heat. If everyone was still living in their natural state, fresh air wouldn't be a problem. But problems arise when air gets cloistered inside a home and recirculated repeatedly.

One of the jobs of an HVAC system is to amend the air to make it healthier for the people living in the home. They do this by keeping humidity in the proper range and removing dust and particulates from the air. When people are constantly exposed to high-quality indoor air, their health improves. Here is a quick discussion about the health complications caused by low indoor air quality and some ideas to help people improve theirs.

Unwellness Caused by Poor Indoor Air Quality

Wellness is a concept that is becoming more popular in describing not just the health of an individual but their ability to thrive. Indoor air quality has important implications for wellness because the air quality in a home directly affects health but also impacts the environment people find themselves in. Some of the negative health effects of low-quality indoor air are:

Chronic headaches
Worsening allergies and asthma
Irritated eyes, nose and throat
Dizziness
Fatigue

Poor indoor air quality contributes to illness and unease, as well as poor housekeeping. When dust builds up on every surface, housekeeping becomes more of a chore, and the problems start to compound.

Start Changing Air Filters and Remembering AC Maintenance

Improving a home's indoor air quality is a project that can start today. The easiest step for homeowners to take is to start changing air filters on schedule. Air filter replacement is one of the most important things a homeowner can do to remove dust and allergens from the air and protect their air conditioners. Aim to change air filters every three months.

After the air filters are changed, homeowners should schedule AC maintenance from a local expert. Annual AC maintenance and furnace maintenance allow technicians to remove excess dust from the system and optimize airflow. This maximizes the air filter's ability to remove dust, further cleaning the air.

Installing Air Filtration Systems

For most people, air filter replacement and seasonal HVAC maintenance are enough for them to notice a drastic improvement in health and housekeeping. However, cleaner air may be even more beneficial for those who suffer from COPD or chronic lung problems. Air filtration systems are the way to go for people looking for purer air. Instead of dealing with portable air filters, air filtration systems are installed in line with existing equipment for effortless control. Using high-grade HEPA filters, homeowners can enjoy a cleaner home with high-quality air.

When the body is given a respite from the constant onslaught of allergens and dust, it can never fully recover. Living in a home with pure air gives the body a moment to catch its breath, so to speak. For cleaner air, remember air filter replacement, AC maintenance, and air filtration systems.

About Chad's AC Direct

Chad's AC Direct believes in communication and transparency. That's why they offer handwritten estimates with itemized parts. They also offer the best warranties in the business when owners choose them for AC installation. Call today for AC service in Montgomery, AL.

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Central AC vs Ductless AC: How To Know Which Is Right for Your Home

A man evaluating a wall-mounted and freestanding air conditioning unit for home HVAC options from Chad's AC Direct.

Central or Ductless: Which Will Keep You Cool?

Spring flowers are slowly but surely coming up, meaning that summer heat is just over the hill. In Montgomery, Alabama, this can mean sticky, hot, and humid days. Many homeowners might be considering getting air conditioning to break the heat and have restful moments, but knowing what is best for the home might seem a bit confusing. In this article, AC professionals will break down central AC vs. Ductless AC.

What Makes Central AC Special

Central AC has one central unit that controls the temperature of the entire house and pushes the cool air through a series of ducts using fans. Central AC requires one main central AC unit that is virtually invisible and adds value to the home in the long term. It keeps the house cool, and the newer models are energy efficient. The central air conditioning unit installation is straightforward when the house has existing ductwork, and the overall cost, while not as cheap as other options, tends to be lower than ductless mini-split systems.

A few disadvantages of central AC could be that it requires annual maintenance to ensure that it is working to the best of its abilities. It also requires new filters every so often, so a homeowner should be aware of this expense, though overall, central AC tends to cost less than many other options.

What Makes a Ductless Mini Split System a Good Option

On the other hand, the ductless mini split is also a great option for some homes. In contrast to central AC, ductless AC systems have two main components - an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit to spread the air. A conduit connects the two units. As the name implies, the ductless mini-split air conditioner requires no ductwork. This means that this might be a great option for older homes with thick walls, which might make ducts difficult to install.

Ductless AC units keep rooms at a continuous temperature and, in the winter, will absorb heat from the outside and move it inside to keep the house cozy and warm. The ductless mini split air conditioners are smaller and more flexible with minimum installation. Because ductless mini split air conditioners have devices in different rooms, they can also control room temperature more individually than central AC units, which have one temperature for the entire house. They also tend to be energy efficient.

A few things that a homeowner should keep in mind when deciding if the ductless mini split system is right for them are that the cost of the system can be higher than other options, including central air, and that the sizing can be an issue to make sure that it fully cools the home. Another thing that might be important to some homeowners is the device's aesthetics, as it is more visible than central AC.

Neither OptionWork for You? Check These Out!

Not all homeowners want central or Ductless AC right away, and that’s okay! There are other options, including a window or portable air conditioner.

Window AC units are housed inside a window where the outdoor side expels hot air, and the indoor side blows cool air into the room. A window AC unit can control the temperature in a room or even a small home if the window AC unit is big enough. Since they are a single unit, they can be much cheaper than either a central AC unit or a ductless AC. However, they are not suitable for multi-floor homes or large single-story houses as they are a much smaller device. They are best for small apartments or single rooms where they can keep that room at one temperature. Finding a proper window to install that is close enough to a power outlet and the right size can also be tricky. They can also be less aesthetically pleasing since they obstruct views from the window.

Portable AC units might also be taken into consideration. A portable air conditioner works similarly to a window air conditioner in that it is a single unit with all its components inside; however, it can be moved from room to room and does not need to hang out a window. Portable air conditioners might be a good option if the cooled space is small, like a bedroom or a bathroom, and there is no window access for a window unit or if the flexibility of moving the AC unit from room to room is desired. Much like the window AC units, however, they cannot cool larger spaces like an entire home, and some people may find them aesthetically unpleasing.

About Chad’s AC Direct

Chad’s AC Direct offers premium heating and air conditioning services at a fair price. With completely transparent pricing and no commissions, their professionals will ensure that all heating and air conditioning needs are met quickly, fairly, and efficiently—meaning no hidden costs. Call them today for trustworthy heating and air conditioning solutions in Montgomery, AL.

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Warning Signs of a Refrigerant Leak That Can't Be Ignored

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Signs an AC Unit Is Leaking Refrigerant

AC units rely on refrigerant, a fluid used in the refrigeration cycle, to cool a home. Refrigerant takes warm air from a home and releases it outside. The chemical compound circulates through the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. Without it, the unit cannot facilitate the gas exchange that makes air conditioning possible. When it leaks, homeowners may notice reduced AC efficiency, higher energy bills, or poor airflow.

A professional HVAC technician can inspect the AC unit to determine the root cause of the issue and repair any leaks that may be present.

The Evaporator Coils Are Frozen

When air conditioner refrigerant leaks, one of the first signs may be a frozen evaporator coil. Ideally, the refrigerant coils should be close to freezing but not frozen. Once ice forms, it will continue to build up and cause more problems within the system. Evaporator coils may freeze when the system is overworked, which could be due to:

Refrigerant leaks
Poor airflow
Dirty evaporator coils
Dirty filters
Clogs
Low fan speed

Frozen coils are pretty easy to spot, but the cause is not always easy to identify, which is why a certified HVAC technician is best equipped to diagnose and repair the issue.

Poor Cooling

Because refrigerant is a crucial part of every step in the air exchange process that removes warm air and allows cool air to flow into a home, a leak can translate to an inefficient cooling system. To test this, try the following:

Turn the thermostat to a lower temperature
Listen for strange noises as the AC unit turns on
Put a hand in front of the vent to check for cold air

If no cold air is flowing through the vents or strange noises occur, then there is an issue with the system. Inefficient cooling can force the system to work harder to achieve the same temperature, leading to an increased energy load. In the short term, this means higher energy bills. Over time, a stressed system can be more prone to breaking down.

Odd Noises

Another key sign that AC refrigerant is leaking can be strange noises coming from the unit. Mechanical issues like misaligned parts or faulty components can cause a banging or whirring sound, but a hissing or gurgling is usually indicative of a refrigerant leak. The noise is the sound of refrigerant escaping from a crack or leak in the coils.

Homeowners can test for leaks along the evaporator coils or refrigerant line by using a refrigerant leak detector, a tool that detects air conditioning refrigerant. Simply turn the tool on, calibrate the sensitivity, and run it along the coils and refrigerant line. You can also check the condenser and compressor since they rely on refrigerant.

The device can help detect precisely where the leak is occurring since it may be too small to detect with the naked eye. If a leak is detected, it’s wise to consult with a certified HVAC technician for further repairs.

About Chad’s AC Direct

Refrigerant leaks are a pain, but fixing them doesn’t have to be done by Chad’s AC Direct, a reliable Montgomery County HVAC technician company. With direct payment methods, trustworthy repair, and quality equipment, homeowners can rest easy whenever an AC or heating problem arises. Call today for personalized, trusted AC service at a great price!