How Much Does Air Duct Sealing Cost and Why it is Needed?

If you're frustrated at the apparent inefficiency of your HVAC system, it's important to know that the culprit may not be in the machinery. In fact, you could have a perfectly efficient air conditioner and furnace but still have issues with efficiency if your ducts are not properly sealed. Duct sealing is part art and part science, and it results in a system of well-insulated and sealed ducts that efficiently deliver air throughout your home. If this sounds like an upgrade your ducts could use, keep reading to learn more about the process involved.

What is the Average Cost to Seal Your Air Ducts

Unlike other HVAC repairs, the average cost of air duct sealing depends largely on the existing infrastructure. For an average job, though, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. The large range of average costs reflects the reality that no two jobs are alike, meaning it's best to have a technician stop by to give you a more accurate estimate.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Duct Sealing

Factors that determine the cost of a duct sealing project include the size and age of the ductwork, the size of your home, the accessibility of the ductwork, and how the ductwork is currently sealed and insulated. Here is a more detailed explanation of some of these factors. The first and most important factor that determines the cost is the size and age of your ductwork. A sprawling system of ducts that are retrofitted to an older home will be quite complicated to seal and insulate properly, thus raising the cost. On the other hand, a smaller home that was built recently and still has most of its ducts exposed will be lower in cost. To add to this point is the fact that dual HVAC systems typically double the cost involved in duct sealing. Since each system of ducts is separate from the other, each has to be treated as its own individual project. Given the benefits of duct sealing, though, this increased cost is well worth it. As mentioned, the accessibility of the ductwork also plays an important role in determining the price of a duct sealing project. If your home's ductwork is located in an unfinished attic or basement, then it is a prime candidate for duct sealing. This is because, in addition to being easy to access, these exposed ducts are in desperate need of insulation to improve their efficiency. This idea of exposed ducts overlaps with the last factor determining duct sealing cost, and that is the current status of your ducts when it comes to sealing and insulation. If your ducts are neither sealed nor insulated, the project cost will be higher than if the joints of your ducts are already sealed. Alternatively, if your ducts have been previously sealed and insulated, but those measures have become worn out, then it will cost more to remove the old insulation, clean the ducts, and install new materials.

How Long Does Duct Sealing Take?

In an ideal environment, the average duct sealing job takes about two hours. This refers exclusively, however, to putting mastic sealant on the duct joints and allowing it to dry. Additionally, this assumes that the ducts are easily accessible and that no other extenuating circumstances present themselves during the course of the project. Beyond these foundational factors, most of the same factors that influence the price of a project also determine its longevity. Obviously, larger, harder-to-access ducts will take longer to seal properly than easy-to-access ducts in a small home. Additionally, it's a good idea to have your ducts sealed in a secondary manner, which is also called insulating your ducts. In insulation, plywood or foam is used to isolate the soffit where the ducts are located from the rest of the surrounding space. This is especially important if your ducts are in an uninsulated attic or basement, as the ducts need to be protected from extreme temperatures in order to allow your HVAC system to work efficiently. If you desire to have your ducts sealed in this manner, along with the basic sealing of joints, then this will add significant time to the project.

What are the Benefits of Duct Sealing?

Duct sealing helps your HVAC system to operate more efficiently in a variety of ways. Two key components of duct efficiency are a duct's ability to move air from place to place without being interrupted and a duct's ability to minimize energy transfer with the surrounding air, meaning you don’t want them to transfer heat or cold until the air gets to the room you are trying to heat or cool. Duct sealing helps with both of these things. When it comes to uninterrupted airflow, duct sealing helps by filling in the gaps that are present at each joint in the ducts. As air flows through the ducts, these joints can allow air to escape, which can reduce the overall heating and cooling capacity of your HVAC system. If the joints, and any other holes, are sealed, however, then all the air that leaves the central HVAC system will arrive at the vents. As far as minimizing energy transfer, duct sealing helps prevent unconditioned air from the cavities where ducts are located from entering into the ducts. Since air of different temperatures seeks to mix until it reaches equilibrium, the unconditioned air outside the ducts and the conditioned air inside the ducts are at risk of mixing, thus lowering the efficiency of your HVAC system. If the ducts are sealed, however, this mixing is much less likely, meaning your home will be heated and cooled much more quickly and efficiently.

Why Choose the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts for Duct Sealing?

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, duct sealing is part science and part art. If it were all science, it would be easy for anyone with the right tools to do correctly. However, in many projects, there are unique factors that make it more challenging. This is where the art aspect of duct sealing comes in. With the experienced technicians from the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts in charge of the project, they can navigate these challenges to ensure your ducts are sealed tightly. Additionally, you can count on the caring professionals of the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts to be able to take care of the rest of your HVAC needs, as well. Our trained staff can take on just about any HVAC project to ensure your entire system is ready and able to provide you with the comfort you deserve. Plus, all of this experience is available through a company that consistently receives five-star reviews from its customers because of our outstanding customer service and our affordable prices. If this sounds like a company you want to use for your HVAC needs, give us a call today.

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How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost and Why It Is Needed?

There is often much attention given to maintaining and repairing the central components of your HVAC system. These components typically include your furnace, air conditioner, and blower fan. While it is certainly crucial to keep these components well-maintained, there is another component of your HVAC system that you should work to maintain as well. That component is your system's ducts. Without properly functioning ducts, your HVAC system can't send the air where it needs to be, meaning your home will remain uncomfortable, even as you waste energy to change the temperature of the air. That's why it's crucial to keep your ducts in pristine condition at all times. To help you better understand this process, here is a guide to some of the basics of air duct cleaning.  

What is the Average Cost to Clean Your Air Ducts

Though the cost can vary, the average cost of duct cleaning ranges anywhere from $250-$500, though there are a host of different factors that go into determining the ultimate cost of the project. Understanding the importance of this service, HVAC companies work hard to limit its cost to ensure as many people as possible can afford to have it done.

Factors That Affect the Cost

The main factor that determines the price is the number of vents in your home. Typically, a duct cleaning project is charged per vent, meaning that the more vents you have, the more the project will usually cost. Of course, if you have long duct runs in a home with few vents, that can also change the cost of duct cleaning, as more time and equipment will be needed to properly clean your ducts. This means that the configuration of the ducts in your home plays a big factor. Ducts that are designed with tight turns are more difficult to properly clean than ducts that are generally straight. One last factor is the overall size of your home. In especially large homes, extra crew members may be needed to expedite the completion of your duct cleaning project, which will increase the cost of the project.

How Long Does Air Duct Cleaning Take?

Thanks to the specialized machines used to clean ducts, the process of duct cleaning usually only takes between two to four hours. As with the price, though, there are many different factors that can affect how long a specific project takes. First and foremost, the size of your ductwork will have the biggest impact on how long it takes to complete a project. Duct cleaning must be done slowly and methodically to ensure all the dirt and dust is removed. Therefore, if you have an especially large system of ducts, it will take longer to clean them in a satisfactory manner. Another factor in the length of a project is the amount of dust and dirt that has to be removed. If your ducts are especially clogged, it may take more than one pass to properly remove all the debris. Plus, if the dust and dirt have been in your ducts for a particularly long time, it tends to be more stuck to the ducts, making it more difficult and time-consuming to remove. As with price, the complexity of your ductwork also plays a role in the length of a project. If you have ducts that are routed unusually or are simply poorly designed, it will take extra time to clean your ducts correctly. Poor duct design is often present in older homes, especially those whose ducts were added after the building was completed. In trying to fit the ducts into a pre-existing space, duct installers often made compromises in the design of the ducts that make those ducts more difficult to clean. Therefore, though these ducts had the benefit of adding central air and heating to an older home, they have the drawback of taking longer to clean.

Why is the Service Needed?

The importance of duct cleaning was briefly touched on at the beginning of this guide. Ducts are crucial to the proper flow of air throughout your home. Therefore, they need to be properly maintained to help support this proper airflow. There are many other reasons why duct cleaning is important, though. The most important reason you should have your ducts cleaned is to help protect the health of your family. Dusty and dirty ducts can encourage mold growth that can cause sneezing, sore throats, and other symptoms in your family. Older homes may even have small particles of lead in the dust in their ducts, which, if released by blowing air, can lead to serious health consequences. Another reason to keep your ducts clean is to support the efficient operation of your HVAC system. Your blower motor has a specific output capacity that is rated assuming an unobstructed airflow from the source to the vents. However, any imperfections in the duct design can reduce this airflow. Additional, large amounts of debris in your ducts can further reduce the airflow, thus increasing the work your system has to do to bring your home to the desired temperature. If you have clean ducts, though, you can be sure that your system will be able to get all the air it produces to where it belongs, which is in the various rooms around your home. Finally, proper duct cleaning helps to prolong the life of your ducts. During the warm months, when you're running your air conditioner regularly, condensation can appear in the ducts, especially in areas that are poorly insulated. For clean ducts, this isn't a big deal, as the moisture simply evaporates when air blows through. For dusty and dirty ducts, though, the moisture can be held in place, which can eventually create rust and cause your ducts to fail.

An Easy Decision to Elect for Air Duct Cleaning

Given the low cost and fast completion of duct cleaning, it's an easy decision to have this service done. If protecting your family and your home is important to you, then duct cleaning is an easy way to do both. The important thing is to have your duct cleaning completed by a professional, as trying to do it yourself with a long vacuum hose will typically result in a lot of dust being released into your home without the majority being removed from the ducts. If you decide to treat yourself and your ducts to a thorough cleaning, then you can schedule your duct cleaning today.

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Why Home AC Refrigerant Leaks Are Dangerous

A refrigerant leak coming from an air conditioning unit might not seem like a common problem. However, it can occur at any time. Unfortunately, this kind of problem can be quite dangerous. That is why it is so important to take care of them right away. If you are concerned about an AC refrigerant leak inside your house, review the information that we have shared below. Our top priority at Phoenix AC & Heating Experts is to assist our customers in the most comprehensive ways that we can. Hopefully, this information can provide you with insight into the way that refrigerants works and why repairing leaks right away is so critical.

How Can You Detect Freon Leaks?

Freon is a kind of refrigerant used to cool down the air coming from your air conditioner. Although Freon is not used in HVAC systems any longer that are manufactured now, it is still commonly found in units that were made prior to 2003. If you notice that cold air is not being pushed out by your AC unit the way it did in the past, that might mean that your system has a leak. Other signs that there could be a leak include the following:

Warm air is being blown by the AC

There is a buildup of ice on the coils

You have much higher electric bills

The AC needs to run for a longer time in order to cool down your house

When your AC is turned on it makes a hissing sound

What Are Some Common Things That Cause Freon Refrigerant Leaks?

Acids inside the HVAC system over time can result in the copper eroding. After that occurs, small holes appear and Freon can escape. Refrigerants also may leak whenever joints over time start to break down from using the unit on a regular basis. Unfortunately, both of those problems are due to normal wear and tear, which you cannot avoid as you are using your AC throughout the year to cool down your house.

How Can AC Refrigerant Leaks Be Avoided?

Phoenix AC & Heating Experts recommends having HVAC maintenance done on a regular basis so that any problems can be pinpointed as early as possible. That is the case no matter how old your AC unit is because preventative maintenance helps to extend your unit’s lifespan. If your unit is older, maintenance is particularly important as regular wear and tear become more of a problem. However, remember that leaks can occur even when you take proper care of your units, especially in units that are more than 10 years old and are used year-round.

Why is R22 Freon Being Phased Out?

Over the years, refrigerant use has changed, particularly as additional research is conducted on the impact that the gas may have on the environment. The largest changes started in 2003, when R22, the most common form of refrigerant, started to be phased out. New air conditioning systems at this point started to be built using alternative refrigerants that have a less serious negative impact on our environment. In 2010, the sale of R22 was prohibited unless used for serving existing equipment. R22 has been eliminated as of January 2020, although its recycled version can be legally used for servicing air conditioning units that need it still to operate. Only certified HVAC technicians can purchase it and the price can be high due to the minimal supply that is available. That results in most homeowners needing to decide whether they should keep paying for R22 until their old HVAC system finally wears out or to buy a new unit. The best option in most cases is to buy a new unit that uses a refrigerant that is more affordable, better for our environment, and is easy to find.

Why You Should Call Phoenix AC & Heating Experts when your AC System is Leaking Freon?

Because Freon is a very toxic substance, only a certified HVAC technician should handle it. Even in small amounts, it is very poisonous. Handling or inhaling the substance and cause extreme illness or even death. That is why we strongly discourage homeowners from dealing with this issue by themselves. Freon is unsafe for the environment as well, and that increases the danger for anybody who handles it without any experience. You should never touch Freon, when you are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Always play it safe by immediately contacting a certified HVAC technician. If you think you might have a leak, give our experienced and certified technicians a call at Phoenix AC & Heating Experts. We are aware of the dangers of Freon, and we can determine whether your unit has a leak or not. Our technicians can provide you with honest advice about what the best solution is, whether that is installing a new unit or adding more Freon. We aim to help our customers find a solution that is affordable to them and that can improve their home’s efficiency as well to reduce their cooling bills. We have extensive experience assisting customers with Freon leaks. Therefore, you can rest assured that our experts will employ all safety precautions while they are working. With their assistance, you will have cool air inside your house without the risk that Freon will be released into the environment. Contact our office to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions. We will be happy to visit your house for a free estimate or to get advice over the phone. We are part of Maricopa County and want to do our best to ensure that all our customers are well taken care of.

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Ways to Check If Your Thermostat Has Gone Bad

If the thermostat in your home is failing, you need to get it fixed right away. This is not the kind of issue that you can safely ignore. Failing to get your thermostat fixed can lead to major expenditures of time, energy, and money. If you suspect something is wrong, the time to address the issue is now. A faulty thermostat in the Arizona summer heat can be a costly problem.

Troubleshooting and Testing Steps

With any air conditioning problem, you want to troubleshoot following a few steps. There are a number of steps that you can use to test and troubleshoot your thermostat. These include the following:

Check the Thermostat Temperature

The first thing you need to do is check the temperature of your thermostat. Do this by checking the set point of your thermostat against the temperature in the room. The set point on your thermostat is the temperature you desire it to remain at. Your heater should only be running when your set point is above the temperature in the room.

Check the Connections on Your Thermostat

The next thing you will need to do is check the connections on your thermostat. You can take off the cover in order to expose the wire connections. The most common ones will be R for 24-volt power, W for heat, Y for cooling, G for your fan, and C for the common side of the 24 volts. If there is no wire connection to C, this means that your thermostat is battery powered. Depending on how it is set, R will internally connect to W, Y, or G. This is to order the corresponding equipment to turn on. You need to be sure that all of these connections are tight and have firm contact.

Make Sure Your Thermostat Isn't the Problem

Shut off the power to your furnace. Once the power is off, remove the wires from the thermostat and carefully label them. Twist the R and W wire ends together. Turn the power back on. At this point, the furnace should come on. Check R to Y and R to G. Make sure that your cooling system and fan turn on. If all your equipment turns on when the wiring is correct but wasn't when you had it directly hooked up to the thermostat, this is proof that your thermostat is faulty.

Problems Caused by a Bad Thermostat

There are a number of very serious problems and symptoms that can be caused by a bad thermostat. These can include, but will not be limited to the following:

Short Cycling

Short cycling can happen when your heater shuts down before completing its regular cycle. If this happens too often, it can lead to extreme wear and tear as well as rapid aging. This will entail multiple repair jobs as well as an eventual early replacement. There are a number of reasons why your heater may begin to short cycle. One of the most common causes is a thermostat that becomes mis-calibrated. If this occurs, it will begin to sense temperatures incorrectly. This will lead to short cycling.

Blower Won't Stop Running

Another major cause of trouble occurs when your blower is unable to stop running. Your thermostat uses a series of separate wires to turn your blower motor on and off. If it suddenly loses a connection to one of these wires, it could cause the motor to turn on and keep running with no ability to stop. The only way to force a stop in this case will be to disconnect the entire system from the power source. This is not advisable because it wastes energy. Doing this too often will cause rapid wear and tear on the motor.

Air Conditioner Refuses to Turn On

There is also a set of wires on your thermostat that are intended to send the signals to your air conditioning and heater to turn on and off. If one of these wires is frayed or damaged, it could lead to your AC or heating being unable to turn on at all. This can be one of the most irritating and confusing of the many issues that a thermostat malfunction can lead to. The problem might seem to point to a full system breakdown when, in reality, it may only call for a minor thermostat repair.

Additional Symptoms You May Experience:

Furnace clicks but doesn't turn on

Thermostat not cooling

Thermostat won't change temperature

What is the Average Cost to Replace a Thermostat?

The average cost to replace a thermostat in Phoenix or the surrounding area will run anywhere from about $260 to $311. A number of factors will play into this equation. There is the cost of the thermostat itself as well as whether you supply this part or depend on a professional service to locate it for you. There are also other factors to consider. These may include the length of time it takes to do the job, as well as the cost of disposing safely of the unit once it has been removed. Talk to us today to get a preliminary estimate of the total cost of your repair so that there will be no surprises when the bill comes due. We carry many of the best brands of thermostats like: Honeywell, Carrier, Emerson and Nest Smart Thermostats. Many of the replacement thermostats we use now help with energy efficiency, are touch screen and can connect to your smart phone.

Contact the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts for More Info

If your home thermostat has malfunctioned, you have options. Your best bet will be to contact the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts to get your thermostat replaced. We have the knowledge, skills, and experience to do the job quickly and for a price you can easily afford. Get in touch with us today to learn more.

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

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What is the Cost to Replace an Evaporator Coil?

When an Evaporator Coil Fails, What is the Typical Cost for Repair?

Are you having problems with your household air conditioning system? This is an especially touchy issue in Phoenix in the middle of the summer season. If your home just won't cool down, there may be an issue with your AC. One of the main sources of trouble can be your evaporator coil.

What Does the Evaporator Coil Do?

The two main components of an air conditioner are the condenser and the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is a very important part of every cooling system. This particular part is useful for absorbing heat when air passes through it. Evaporator coils look like a series of pipes closely strung together. In the average furnace (the part may be found in the furnace even though it is used for cooling) or central air conditioning system, this device will pass air through the coil. The coil absorbs heat from the air and sends it back into your home once it is cool. It will do this through a series of strategically placed air ducts.

How Does this Component Fail?

There are a number of reasons why the evaporator coil in your HVAC system may fail. One of them may be due to lack of cleaning. The coil needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. Otherwise, it will begin to collect dust and grime. It will do so until it is completely choked up with dirt and unable to do its job. Another very common reason for the failure of an evaporator coil is freezing. During the winter season, the coil may freeze simultaneously in critical areas. A buildup of pressure between these areas may cause the tubes to swell and eventually burst. Another reason may be that your evaporator coil is simply worn down due to age. This is particularly the case in older homes that may still be using their original HVAC system. If this is the case, it's a good idea to get your coil checked out, repaired, or replaced by an expert.

What is the Average Replacement Cost?

HVAC systems can be very tricky to repair or replace. The age and general condition of your unit will be a determining factor. The average cost of an evaporator coil replacement in the Phoenix area may range anywhere from $600 to $1,500. There are a number of factors that will affect the total cost of a replacement.

What Affects the Price?

As noted above, many conditions can affect the price of an evaporator coil repair. First among these will be whether or not you are simply buying the part and doing the replacement yourself. The total cost in this case may be about $600. This course of action is not recommended if you aren’t trained in this area. Most homeowners will prefer to have a qualified and experienced expert do the work for them. The average cost of a professional evaporator coil replacement may be about $1,500. This will depend on how long it takes to do the work and whether or not you or the service technician supplies the replacement coil. Other factors may include the size and age of your HVAC system as well as where in your home the unit is located. If your unit is a highly rated brand name, this will end up costing you more. Another key factor is the type of refrigerant that your HVAC system uses.

What is the R-22 Phase Out?

R-22 is a very common type of refrigerator in older HVAC systems. If the system in your home uses this type of coolant, you need to be aware of the imminent R-22 phase out. After January 1, 2020, HVAC systems that use R-22 will be obsolete. This is because R-22 is going off the market, never to be manufactured again. If a future repair job on your HVAC system requires adding R-22 refrigerant, the only available option will be to use previously produced R-22 refrigerant that has been reclaimed for this purpose. This will necessarily drive up the total cost of the repair work. Your best bet will be to switch to an HVAC system that uses cleaner, safer, and more modern types of refrigerant. Although the short-term cost may be great, you will end up saving a great deal of energy and money in the long run.

Why Call the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts?

When it comes to replacing your evaporator coil, this is definitely not the kind of job that you want to attempt by yourself. A lot can go wrong if you aren't careful. You may end up damaging the unit or even causing injury to yourself or your loved ones. This is the kind of task that is best left to an expert. And when it comes to expert evaporator coil repair, you can count on the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts. We are the leading firm for this type of repair as well as any other system repairs that you may require. Get in touch with us today to learn more about what we can do on your behalf.

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

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10 Most Common Air Conditioner Problems

What are Some of the Problems Air Conditioners Have

Years ago, not having an air conditioner (AC) was the norm, but now many of us rely on AC to cool our homes during the hot summer months. If you live in an area with excessive heat like Nevada, Arizona, or Florida, you might not be willing to survive without your AC unit. And you shouldn’t have to. That’s why it’s important to know how to maintain your AC and ensure it never goes out on you, especially in the mid-summer months when we get record high temperatures.

Low Coolant Resulting from Leaks

Your air conditioner should never run out of coolant as long as it is working properly. However, all it takes is a small leak for your unit to lose coolant. There are several signs that indicate your AC is running low on coolant, possibly resulting from a leak:

A hissing noise

A higher power bill

Warmer air than usual

Ice build-up around the outside of the unit

You may be able to spot a leak by doing a visual inspection of the lines for oily residue. A leak can damage the compressor, which can cost more to fix than it does to buy a new unit. It’s important to note that Freon (the usual coolant material in an AC unit) is a gas that can cause serious health issues. Therefore, if you suspect a leak, turn off your air conditioner immediately and seek the help of affordable professionals, like the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts. Topping off refrigerant can cost from $150 to $400, and it’s more than likely that the leaking component will need to be replaced, which can set you back anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

Clogged Drains

The moisture that your AC removes goes through a drain line, into a pan, then down another drain. Should either the line or drain become clogged, or the pan get too full of water, it can back up and damage your unit. Not to mention, these water leaks can wind up on your floors, ceiling, walls, or furniture and eventually grow mold. It can cost anywhere from $75 to $250 to flush an AC line.

Evaporator Coil Problems

All AC units are equipped with evaporator coils that absorb heat from the air and release it back as cold air using a series of air ducts. Over time these coils can become corroded; if the ducts get clogged, they can be damaged; or, if there is a leak in one of the components, they can easily freeze up. Either way, evaporator coils usually require maintenance every three years. The price to replace an evaporator coil can range from $400 to $950.

Dirty Air Filters

One of the most common reasons for air conditioning units not to work properly is clogged or dirty air filters. Dirty air filters restrict airflow and can lead to many airflow problems including potentially causing the coils to freeze up. While some manufacturers suggest changing air filters every one to three months, some are reusable and can be cleaned with a vacuum or simply brushed off. Replacement air filters typically cost anywhere from $10 to $60 but can make a big difference in cooling your home.

Problems with the Thermostat

Some older AC models still have the dial-type thermostats installed, which can become incorrectly calibrated, meaning your unit isn’t getting the correct instructions to properly control the system. This problem can be fixed by either recalibrating the thermostat, making sure the settings are correct by checking your owner’s manual, or replacing the thermostat with a newer model, which can help save energy. Some of the newer thermostats can even be controlled remotely with your smartphone. Other things you can check your thermostat for are:

Make sure it is turned on

Check to ensure it is leveled

Is it clean on the inside?

Is the sunlight affecting it?

Are the settings correct?

Replacing the thermostat in your AC unit can cost around $15 to $300 for the thermostat alone and roughly $100 to $450 for the installation fees.

Leaking Air Ducts

The air ducts that run through the ceilings and walls in your home carry the cooled air and disperse it throughout your living space. If there are cracks or holes in the ducts — caused by rodents or carelessness of workers — that cool air may end up being redirected into the walls or otherwise lost before it reaches the rooms you’re hoping to cool, causing your AC to run harder and your energy bills to rise. If this is the case, you may need to call in a professional service to check the ducts, like the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts who have been in business since 2002 and currently have a 100% review rate. With such high ratings, they must be doing something right.

Air Conditioning Compressor Failures

The compressor is one of the most important parts of an air conditioner as it applies the energy needed to propel the refrigerant through the coils to create the heat exchange. If this component should stop working, your AC would no longer be able to cool your home. If the unit continues to run low on refrigerant, the compressor will heat up and eventually seize. On the contrary, if there’s too much coolant it will return to the compressor, which will soon fail. If the parts are still under warranty, it can cost around $650 to replace. If not, you’re looking at around $1,300 for the parts and installation.

Condenser Coils

The condenser coils remove the heat by expelling it from the building. Like the compressor, the condenser coils are located outside where there is pollution, soot, and other elements that can easily cause this component to become very dirty. Once the condenser coil is covered in dirt and grime, it won’t work very well. In fact, the heat transfer will be impeded, causing the unit to work extra hard to do its job, which could lead to excessive wear on the parts, eventually causing system failure. You may not want to pay the $100 to $400 required to have the coils cleaned by a professional. However, if it needs to be replaced, it will require more extensive work that could cost from $400 to $1,200 just for the part then $50 to $150 per hour for labor.

Clogged Vents

If the outdoor fan or condenser is clogged with trash, dust, lint, dirt, leaves, or other outdoor elements, the unit won’t be able to expel heat effectively and the system could break down. The average price of air duct cleaning is usually $35 per vent or $300 to $500 for an entire home depending on how many ducts there are, their configuration, and the size of the home. In this case, it wouldn’t hurt to call a professional AC service, like the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts, who offer free consultations.

Low Capacity Breakers

Breakers and fuses are what safeguard your AC unit’s compressor and motor from overheating. When an AC motor dies and one of our HVAC technician is called in, one of the first things they’ll check is the breaker. If your breaker keeps shutting down when you run the air, this may be an indication that the breaker doesn’t have the necessary power to run the system; therefore, it may need to be replaced. Replacing a breaker can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000.

10 Most Common Air Conditioner Problems was originally published on @phoenixac&heatingexperts

Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

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How Much Does a Home AC Compressor Replacement or Repair Cost?

You know that your air conditioner keeps your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Just how it accomplishes that, though, may be a bit of a mystery. After all, the only thing you have to do is set your thermostat to the desired temperature and, before you know it, there is cool and refreshing air flowing through your vents. Though there are several components in a central air conditioner, one of the most important is the compressor. Without a compressor, the rest of the cooling process can't happen. If you think you might be experiencing problems with your compressor, here is some basic information on what you can expect throughout the diagnostics process and replacement process.

What Does the Air Compressor Do?

In an air conditioner, the primary way that heat is removed from your home is through the refrigerant. This refrigerant is a substance that changes from a liquid to a gas at a predictable temperature. The way the temperature in the refrigerant is changed is by changing the pressure of the refrigerant to a specific level. That's where the compressor comes in. Sitting outside your home, the compressor's job is to increase the pressure of the refrigerant to a point where its temperature is higher than the surrounding air. When this happens, thanks to thermodynamics, the heat is expelled from the refrigerant and into the outdoor air. Then, because of this difference in pressure, the refrigerant, as a gas, moves to the condenser coils. As air moves over the condenser coils, the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant begin to drop, which eventually causes the refrigerant to turn back into a liquid. When the pressure is low enough, the refrigerant moves inside your home, replacing the higher-pressure refrigerant that has been busy removing heat from your home. This process continues until the thermostat senses that your home has reached the desired temperature and shuts the system off.

What Causes Compressors to Burn Out?

Given their high-intensity job, compressors are generally built quite tough. However, there are a few conditions that can cause your compressor to burn out. One common cause of compressor burn-out is the loss of lubricating oil on the moving parts of the compressor. Similar to motor oil in a vehicle, lubricating oil in a compressor will often work its way out of the small gaps or cracks in the body of the compressor. Over time, these small leaks can leave your compressor with a lack of adequate lubrication, resulting in excess heat that will cause your compressor to fail. Another condition that can cause your compressor to fail is a blocked expansion valve. Though the refrigerant line in your air conditioner is a closed system, the expansion valve is so small that it only takes a tiny amount of sediment or acidic buildup to cause a problem. If the valve becomes blocked, it will cause too much pressure to build up behind it, leading to an overworked compressor. A third problem that can lead to compressor failure is a buildup of heat in the compressor housing. If the exhaust fan on your compressor stops working, or if there is an excess amount of debris around the compressor, too much heat may build up in and around the compressor, leading to its failure.

How to Diagnose a Failed Air Conditioner Compressor

When compressors fail, they don't always fail in the exact same way. That means there are several symptoms that could indicate a failed compressor. At the same time, some of these symptoms may also indicate other issues with your air conditioner, which is why it's important to have your system inspected by a qualified technician. One symptom you may experience is your air conditioner blowing warm air. Since the compressor is crucial to the cooling process, it makes sense that this would be a symptom of a failed compressor. However, it's important to note that many other air conditioner problems can cause this specific issue, so don't automatically assume that your compressor is the culprit. Another sure sign of a problem is if your compressor doesn't kick on at all when your system activates. If a compressor has totally burned out, there are circuits in place that will prevent any other components in the compressor housing from turning on to prevent damage to the rest of your system. Finally, if the circuit your air conditioner is on starts to trip every time the system turns on, it's probably a problem with your compressor. If the compressor begins to fail, it tends to push harder to try and overcome the problem. As it works harder, it draws more power, leading to the problem with a tripped breaker.

What is the Average Cost of a New Compressor?

The good news when it comes to many air conditioner compressors is that they may be covered under warranty. This can help to limit or eliminate your out-of-pocket costs if your compressor fails. Of course, many compressors fail after the warranty has expired, meaning you will be responsible for the full cost of replacement. Depending on the size of your unit, an average replacement cost typically runs anywhere from $900 to $2,400, including installation. This is due to the types of materials that a compressor is made from and the amount of labor involved in replacing the compressor.

Should I Replace the Compressor or Buy a New Unit?

Given the relatively high cost of replacing a broken air conditioner compressor, the inevitable question becomes whether you should only replace the compressor or if you should replace the entire air conditioning system. Obviously, if your compressor is still under warranty, it makes the most sense to only replace the compressor. If your system is older, though, it may make sense to go ahead and replace the entire air conditioner to prevent other failures from happening right after you replace your compressor. Ultimately, the decision whether to replace one component or the entire system is something you'll have to think over based on your budget, your home comfort needs, and the age of your system. The best way to prevent a compressor failure is to have your air conditioner maintenanced annually. This allows a technician to check over each system component to ensure they're working well together to avoid putting excess strain on the compressor or any other component. This is one case where an ounce of prevention is certainly worth the investment into keeping your air conditioner running optimally.

How Much Does a Home AC Compressor Replacement or Repair Cost? is available on Phoenix AC & Heating Experts (PhoenixACExperts)

Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

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Why Ventilation Cleaning Is Important In Every Home

Ventilation cleaning is a form of home maintenance that reduces pollutants that have built up in our home duct work from being blown back into the air we breathe inside our residence. This form of maintenance has really taken off in recent years as we have more knowledge of clean air and how impurities affect our lives. This is something that should be done yearly by a qualified professional to ensure the job is complete and risk minimized. Continue reading this article if you think your home needs ventilation cleaning performed and what exactly is hiding in your vents. Why Our Home's Air Quality is so Important! One of the biggest issues plaguing society today is mold in our homes. It hides in the dark recesses and can cause serious respiratory issues including death. Our duct work is made of metal and depending on the temperature changes in the home, may sweat and actually start growing mold. These spores are then circulated into our living space as the system cycles affecting the air quality in the home. A professional, besides cleaning the ducts, will spray a solution in mist form into the vent work to kill off the mold and ensure the air we breathe is safe. Most of us question where all the dust comes from in our homes and may even blame it on heavy foot traffic. While this is true, much of that dust has found its way into the vents and has built up for years to the point it simply blows back into the air and eventually makes its way back into the vents repeating the cycle. Ventilation cleaning will remove all of these particles and make the air we breathe noticeably cleaner as well as reducing the amount of dust build up on tables and TV's. Ventilation cleaning can be the best money you spend on your home. The vents are visibly cleaner and the fresh air smell will open your eyes to how bad the problem was. If you haven't done so in the last year, it is more than likely time to call someone in to clean your vents and your ducts. Phoenix AC & Heating Experts 18631 N. 19th Ave #158 Phoenix, Az 85027 http://www.phoenixacexperts.com (602) 773-5522  

Why Ventilation Cleaning Is Important In Every Home is available on PhoenixAC&HeatingExperts

Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

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Keep Cool without Spending Much

After your air conditioning company has installed your AC unit, it is up to you to limit your usage and use it in a practical way. Keep your AC filters clean every month to ensure proper air flow at all times. To prevent the suns heat from getting through your windows, install blinds or woven bamboo screens. Also keep your windows closed during the day. To ventilate your room, open your windows at night as it is cooler during this time. Your air conditioning company will tell you that your AC unit will take more time to cool your room when it is warmer. Before you have your AC unit installed, ask about proper installation of your unit. The performance, efficiency and life of your equipment is greatly affected if not properly installed. Your air conditioning company can give you more information to help you save more on your energy bills while enjoying your equipment. Phoenix AC Experts 18631 N. 19th Ave #158 Phoenix, Az 85027 (602) 773-5522

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

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The Importance of Air Conditioning Maintenance

If you are a homeowner, you understand how costly some repairs can be. Among the many things you have to look after, few are as important as your air conditioner. After all, you wouldn't want your AC unit breaking down on you in the middle of summer would you? The best way to prevent the occurrence of any such problems is to make sure you practice proper air conditioning maintenance throughout the year. The following article will show you exactly how. The first thing you need to do with regards to air conditioning maintenance is to change your filter each and every month. This is a simple way to make sure your air conditioner runs smoothly and efficiently. Unfortunately, your filter doesn't keep all of the dirt out of your air conditioning unit. You are going to have to manually vacuum some of it out yourself. Cap the end of your air conditioning drain and suck out any dirt or debris stuck in the unit. Remember to remove the cap when you have finished vacuuming. You would also be wise to clean out the coils within your air conditioning unit. Obviously, you'll want to make sure that you have disconnected the unit so that the power is not on. Use a garden hose to spray the coils clean and make sure to give it ample time to dry before you plug your unit back in. None of the air conditioning maintenance tips mentioned above are all that difficult to do, but when you take the time and effort to do them regularly, you can greatly prolong the life of your unit. The best way to prevent any future problems from occurring is to take good care of your AC unit throughout the year. You'll be glad you did.

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

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Air Conditioning Repair & Service Guidelines – What to Look For!

Why You Need Affordable High Quality Services

AC Repair is essential anytime it starts to malfunction. Air conditioning service usually becomes something that everyone looks for during hot seasons. A malfunctioning unit can make a residence or office a living hell if not fixed immediately. Air conditioning repairs cost a good sum of money but it is best to fix it early as waiting will only make things uncomfortable. Before you go look for affordable ac services, it is best that you take a look yourself. Things that go wrong air conditioning are quite common and some of them can be fixed by you. Just because your home has become too hot all of a sudden, does not necessarily mean that your ac is malfunctioning. It is a good practice to check the thermostat first. Thermostats that are of old model have switched that can be pointed at ‘off’ from ‘cool’ by the lightest touch. Digital thermostats have the same kind of problem for malfunctioning batteries. These problems are usually solved by lowering the thermostat. If changing the thermostat does not help then the problem could be with a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. Tripped breakers need to be reset and blown fuses can be replaced easily. If you suspect that the problem is here and you cannot handle it then you can call an electrician to check it out. Another common problem is that outdoor units have a tendency to freeze up. In such cases you should keep the unit off for a few hours so that it can thaw. This action often solves problem. Malfunctioning problems can often be resolved without the help of professionals.

Looking for Affordable AC Service?

However, if none of these solutions work for you then you need affordable ac repair. (Read more) It is best to replace old models than to try and fix them, because the solution will be temporary and it will cost you more. Replacing a malfunctioning ac is better than getting ac service throughout the year. Newer models are likely to be more efficient and will cool the surroundings faster. It is unlikely that they will require ac repair in a short while. New models are energy saving and as a user you should know how much energy costs are during summer seasons. If you need general purpose cooling for your home then it is best to go for zoning and split systems. These are energy efficient and ideal for homes. Evaporative cooling can be great choice for those who have low humidity levels. It is extremely energy efficient and rarely requires ac repairs. If you live in a cool area then a central air system is not a good solution in terms of economy. It is better to get window units and not suffer a hefty bill. Air conditioning repairs are quiet important given the climate of some places. For example: those who live in Greensboro need air conditioning service because of their climate. Usually people are not comfortable handling repairs on their own so it is best to get the help of professionals when your ac malfunctions. Phoenix AC & Heating Experts 18631 N. 19th Ave #158 Phoenix, Az 85027 (602) 773-5522  

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

https://goo.gl/maps/5SjhYbuBDPt

Searching for A Good Air Conditioning Contractor

Finding quality air conditioning contractors can be a daunting task for the homeowner. It can be difficult to know exactly where to begin, and how do you know if they are doing the job correctly since you do not know how to install or work on the unit yourself? There are some ways to help protect yourself against fraud. Homeowners should look at installing a unit which will provide heat and air as an investment. Then when it is time to hire a professional to service the unit, it is more like protecting your initial investment. To begin the search, you will want to check out several who offer services of this nature. Most of them will have brochures or websites which make available information about the services they provide. Checking out several different air conditioning contractors will give you a general idea of price ranges that are typically charged. Be sure to check their references as it can help you determine the quality of repairs and reliability of their services. One of the most important issues is the licenses and insurance that the contractor carries. Specifically check to make sure if they have liability insurance as this is what will take care of their employees if they are injured while they are working on your property. In a situation like that it should not be filed with your home owner’s insurance. To maintain their professional standing they should have a license that shows they do indeed know what they are doing. It also lets customers know that they are legally working in the field. Another important aspect that should be looked in to is how long the company has been in business doing ac repair. They should have solid contact information such as a valid address and a land line for a phone number, not just a cell phone. You can also check their listing with the Better Business Bureau in your area. They can let you know if it is a reputable establishment or not. When hiring a company to do any sort of installation or air conditioning repair always make sure every item contained in the contract is written down in detail. Read it over carefully to make sure every item that was discussed is written down clearly before you sign the contract. The contractor should also sign the contract or it is legally considered void. Before finalizing any payments to the company double check to make sure that each item was completed sufficiently. Do not pay for work that is not complete, even if they promise to finish it later. The final payment should not be made until all the work is done as set forth in the contract. Installing units like this in your home is a major investment. If it is not handled properly it can end up costing you more in the long run. By checking credentials, references and reputations you can be assured that you will find good, quality air conditioning contractors. The Phoenix AC & Heating Experts is your go to for any air conditioning services you may need in Phoenix.

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

https://goo.gl/maps/5SjhYbuBDPt

Ventilation Cleaning…Is It Worth Your Time?

When it comes to ventilation cleaning, people have mixed views on whether or not it is actually necessary. The main thing people have concerns about with regards to getting your ducts cleaned is whether or not cleaning them will help prevent any health problems from occurring. Now it should be noted that none of the studies on vents have yielded concrete proof that vents that are not cleaned can lead to future health problems. However it is also important to note that these sorts of studies are relatively new and the whole arena is still in its early stages. One thing that can be proven is that sheet metal, can indeed be a ground for mold. Often times the only way to tell whether you've got mold or not is through visual inspection. Unfortunately for most, many areas and sections of your ventilation is not visually accessible. Aside from ventilation cleaning for health reasons you may also want to do it for performance reasons as well. Some people believe that a good cleaning will help improve the efficiency of your eating and cooling system. With no particles in the way, your entire HVAC system can more around much easier. This is particularly true for ventilation systems that are larger than normal. Whether you decide to get your vents cleaned or not is strictly up to you. However, if you or someone in your household suffers from asthma or has a dust allergy, it might be a good idea to go through ventilation cleaning annually. This will significantly reduce the amount of dust in your house which will improve the health of you and your loved ones dramatically. Check out the Duct Services provided by our team: Air Quality/Ducts - Read more Duct Cleaning - Read more Duct Installation - Read more Duct Sealing - Read more  

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Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

18631 N 19th Ave #158

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(602) 773-5522

https://goo.gl/maps/5SjhYbuBDPt

Why Choose the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts

At the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts we know that it is getting warmer and we are getting even more busy every day. As the temperature increases, air conditioning companies will get very busy. One of the main reasons is that this is the time that most air conditioning units are being turned on and this is when the problems start.

The extreme Arizona heat is very hard on any electrical equipment outside. Have you ever left batteries for your power drill and electronics in the garage. They are not in the direct sun, but the heat will shorten the life expectancy of these batteries drastically.

We recommend to homeowners and especially our commercial customers that they should get their ac units checked every single year. This is just a maintenance check up in most cases. Sometimes we find a problem and are able to catch it early before it becomes a really big air conditioning repair problem.

We run a special at the beginning of summer for residential air conditioning customers for tune-ups and new installation. Give the Phoenix AC & Heating Experts a call and we will get you scheduled for your tune up special before the summer starts or ends.

Top 5 Tips to Reduce Your Air Conditioning Bill This Summer

Summertime, and the living is easy. The living is also hot, sweaty and can get a little uncomfortable in the land down under at this time. Australia has beautiful long summers with temperatures that can easily soar to the mid 30s (degrees Celsius) so retreating to a gloriously cool air conditioned home after being in the oppressive heat of the day is sometimes just what the doctor ordered. Thank goodness for a comfortable air conditioned oasis. It’s an Aussie family’s relief from those endless summer days when the air can sometimes feel like a hot blanket.

Of course, the downside is that your air conditioning unit at home will be asked to work super hard in this peak season. This means your air conditioning bill could climb without you realising. Energy consumption can soar just like the temperature at midday. However, there are some very simple and effective tips to reduce your air conditioning bill over the summer period and keep a comfortable indoor environment. Applying these tips will help you keep cool when the bills come rolling in.

1. Turn off at night, and save while you sleep This money-saving tip is as clear as night and day! Keep your air conditioning on during the day, and off at night. The reasoning is simple. Firstly, the evening air is naturally cooler, so you can take advantage of that by turning off the air conditioning and opening a window. You may even get a gentle breeze to cool things down.

If you do find a welcome breeze, open windows or doors on both sides of your house to allow it to flow through.

Secondly, for comfortable sleeping, your body simply doesn’t need your air conditioner to run at the same temperature as it does during the day. So, with your air conditioner off, you can enjoy some nocturnal energy savings and sweet dreams.

2. Thermostats and timers - set and save When it comes to energy consumption and reducing your air conditioning bill over summer, every degree matters!

So one of the most energy-efficient things you can do is set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature that won’t make your unit work too hard, but will still make you feel like you’re sitting pretty. As a guide, somewhere between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius is where you should set the thermostat. Be aware, that for every single degree of cooling you can do without, you’re saving on your energy bill. So avoid setting it too cold in summertime. Even setting your air conditioning unit one degree warmer than you normally world can cut costs by up to 10%. As a rule, try not to set the thermostat less than 8 degrees below the outdoor temperature (so if it’s 30 outside, aim for 22 or 23 degrees Celsius inside).

To really help reduce your energy bill, consider a thermostat with a built-in timer, so you’re not only setting the temperature, but setting the hours of operation for maximum energy efficiency. It makes sense to have a system that does it for you automatically, so you can set, and forget. And save of course.

3. Get shady and shut out the sun Shade, shade, shade. However you can get it, grab it, and it will help your home stay cooler. Therefore, your air conditioning unit won’t have to work so hard, and your energy bill will be reduced. It’s simple. During a hot Aussie summer, you can’t turn down the sun, but you can add some shade to turn down the heat.

The first way to get shady is to keep blinds, curtains, drapes and awnings drawn and closed. Whether it’s Venetian blinds, roller blinds, plantation shutters or lined curtains, keep that beautiful sunshine outside where it belongs. For sun-facing windows, light-coloured backings for blinds and curtains will help deflect sun heat too.

By closing windows, blinds, shutters or drapes, you’ll be keeping the hot air and the sun’s rays out, so your air conditioning doesn’t have to run all the time to maintain the optimal temperature. Heat absorption can be drastically reduced if your windows have a strong line of defense. Even tinted windows can stop some of the sun’s heat coming into your air conditioned sanctuary, and your unit won’t have to work so hard.

Want some more ways to throw shade and reduce air conditioning bills? Consider Mother Nature’s original shade maker – trees. Plant trees, vines or shrubs that can add a defensive line of shade to the house – consider the walls and roof as well as the windows.

Read Full Article Here: Top 5 Tips to Reduce Your Air Conditioning Bill This Summer