When Is It Time For An Air Conditioner Replacement?

Your air conditioner is a machine that takes hot air and cools it down. It’s also the machine that provides you with fresh, clean air in your home or office by removing stale and polluted air and replacing it with crisp and clean ones.

When this machine starts to break down, it can become more expensive than ever to replace – but there are steps you can take to prevent that from happening! Here we’ll look at how you may know when is the best time to get an air conditioner replacement and what your options may be.

AC Unit is Blowing Warm Air

Blowing warm air is usually a sign that something’s gone wrong with your AC unit. Your air conditioner may be blowing warm air rather than dispersing cool air. There are many possible causes such as:

• Incorrectly set thermostat
• Low refrigerant levels in your unit might indicate that it is not working correctly.
• Your Outdoor Unit Lost Power
• Your Evaporator Coils are Dirty

Another sign would be if the AC unit is blowing out cool air, but you can’t feel it. It typically means that there’s a problem with your thermostat, and it’s not wired correctly. If this happens, then call a professional to help you fix the issue ASAP!

Extremely Loud Noises From Outside Unit

If you’re hearing loud noises coming from outside of your home or office, and it sounds like your AC unit is trying to turn on, then the chances are high that something’s wrong with the compressor in your machine. The compressor makes the fan spin around really fast, so if you hear banging and rattling noises when turning on the AC, there might be something wrong with it.

The Air Flow is Not That Satisfying

It is another sign that you need to replace your air conditioner. If you’re not getting too great of airflow, but you know that it’s turned on and receiving electricity, then there might be something wrong with the internal system inside your machine, or there might be a clog in one of the hoses.

Air conditioners all have a condensing device that is usually found outside or inside a mechanical system. The air conditioner’s ability to cool down and function properly is affected by the accumulation of leaves and other debris. This negligence can also affect the performance of systems in the mechanical room, as equipment stored in the storage area can cause problems.

Excessive equipment and debris can cause the system to heat up, leading to a reduced airflow supply.

AC Thermostat is Not Functioning

If you turn on the AC but can’t seem to get it to blow cold air, be sure to check the thermostat first. Turn it up all the way and see if your machine responds. Sometimes, faulty wiring might cause this problem. If that doesn’t help, then try replacing the batteries in your AC’s thermostat.

Also, if your thermostat does not respond to the controls, it may be due to a low battery. The remote control buttons may also require repairs because of corrosion or damage from moisture and spills. If your AC is not cooling down after you make necessary troubleshooting, then replace the thermostat immediately!

You Can Hear Rattling and Clanging

Rattling and clanging noises coming from your AC unit typically means there’s a problem with the fan blades. Now, these things tend to last for years before they start to break down, but if you start noticing rattling and clanging when you turn on your AC, then the chances are high that something’s wrong with them.

Strange Odors When AC Turned On

If you notice strange odours when turning on your AC unit, this could be a sign of an issue with the coils in the machine. If these are damaged, then they will expel ammonia into the air. It typically means there’s something wrong with your freon levels inside of the system.

A foul smell coming from your AC unit may also mean that something has gone wrong with any of the filters or gaskets in your machine. It is essential to call a professional immediately if you start noticing any weird smells when turning on your AC unit!

Problems with the AC Are Occurring More Often

Typically the life of an AC is between 10 to 15 years. If you find that your unit is breaking down more often than it used to, this may mean that something’s wrong with it, and it might need to be replaced by a new one.

Of course, the older your AC unit gets, the more likely it is that you’re going to have issues with it. Things break down over time, and if you have a 15-year-old AC unit right now, the chances are high that it’s probably got some wear and tear on it and perhaps even some damage.

AC Unit Keeps Getting Clogged Up

If you’re constantly unclogging the vents in your home or office due to heavy dust buildup, then there’s a chance your AC unit needs a replacement. Now, this typically occurs when the AC units are older and have been in use for some time, but sometimes clogs can happen because of problems with installation or if someone makes a mistake when trying to install the machine.

Lots of Moisture and Leakage Around The Unit

If you notice that there’s lots of moisture or leakage around the unit, your unit is probably pretty old. It typically occurs because of rust building up around the tubing. Not only does this look bad for your home or office, but it could potentially cause further damage to the rest of the internal components in your AC system.

Leaks are common in older units, and sometimes they’re easy to see right away when oil seeps out from the machine. However, leaks can also occur internally due to constant use, breaking down internal parts within your air conditioner.

High Electricity Bill

If you notice that your electricity bill is getting relatively high, and it’s more than you remember paying last month, for example, then there’s a chance that something’s wrong with your AC. Perhaps the unit is broken and isn’t cooling as effectively as it used to.

Of course, if you’re running an AC 24/7 in your house or office, it’s going to be more expensive than usual. However, if you’re noticing that your bill is getting higher and higher each month for no reason at all, then there’s a chance that there might be something wrong with the machine.

Air Conditioner Replacement – Conclusion

So if you’re noticing any of the issues we’ve mentioned, then there’s a good chance that you need an air conditioner replacement. If this is the case, then it’s probably best to call a professional to come out and inspect your system for potential problems or check for any damage to the internal parts of your machine.

Also, make sure that you hire someone who knows what they’re doing. You don’t want someone coming out who doesn’t know how an air conditioner works!

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/air-conditioner-replacement/

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What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer?

It is normal to turn on the air conditioner to make your home cool and comfortable in summer. Alongside the increasing temperatures, you’ll also have to deal with the high electricity bills as you would use your air conditioner more frequently. 

Although air conditioners provide the most efficient method of maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, their effectiveness depends on several factors. It is essential to know what temperature to set air conditioner in Summer to ensure that an AC operates at optimal efficiency and reduces your energy bill.

What’s The Best Temperature to Set The AC in Summer?

To stay comfortable at home this summer, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests that you set your thermostat to 26C. In other words, if you have an AC with a thermostat at your home, set it to 26C. Even keeping the temperature 1 degree lower could improve the efficiency of your AC by about 8 percent.

Although there are several variances from location to location and many other factors that affect how efficient your AC will be this summer, a general rule would be that you should keep your AC between 25 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius in the summer months.

How to Maximize Cooling Efforts in Your Home?

Apart from knowing what temperature to set the air conditioner in summer, you can also maximize the cooling efforts at home by observing a few essential tips.

• Consider using blinds and shutting your curtains if you reside in sunny regions of the world.
• If you work with computers or other electronic appliances for long hours, ensure that you place them some distance away from the AC vent as they increase the temperature in a room.
• Remember to clean the air ducts or replace filters once every month, as it ensures that your air conditioner operates at optimal efficiency by circulating all-new air.
• The best time to use your AC is between 10 am and 4 pm, as this is when the core temperature is at its peak.
• Install thermostats that have a programmable mode so that you can control the AC accordingly. For example, if it is winter, consider programming your AC to start four hours before coming home from work and switch off two hours after reaching home.
• Although you can use AC throughout the day, ensure that you know how much power it is consuming. If you are not at home, shut down your AC.

What’s the Best Temperature to Guarantee Humidity Control?

Humidity control is another essential component of ensuring a comfortable work and living environment. As humidity levels in your home increase, the air becomes dense with water vapours. These vapours make it difficult for humans to breathe easily and cause several other condensations on walls.

Therefore, it becomes critical for you to consider what temperature to set air conditioner in summer and what temperature to set dehumidifier in summer. The recommended indoor humidity level is between 30% to 50%. Setting the air conditioner at a high temperature (at least 26C) and the dehumidifier at a slightly lower level (around 20C) is always better.

This way, you stay comfortable throughout the day and ensure that humidity levels are under control. You can measure humidity levels using an electronic hygrometer.

How to Save Energy While Enjoying Your AC This Summer?

Although an AC is a great device to beat the heat and enjoy your home this summer, it is also crucial to consider your electricity bill. Although you should set your AC at 26C, do not increase temperatures too much as it might unnecessarily increase the energy bills.

The following are some of the tips on how you can save energy while enjoying your AC this summer.

Avoid on/off cycles

Ensure that you are not setting an AC at very high temperatures and then switching it off for some time. Although the temperature inside your room might be higher than outside, you will still need to switch on the AC again when humidity levels rise rapidly. Therefore, instead of turning the AC on/off, set it at a permanent temperature.

Install programmable thermostats

If you don’t have programmable thermostats installed in your home already, consider installing them this summer. They will help you figure out when to switch on your AC and when not to use it so that you can save maximum energy and enjoy your AC this summer.

Use blinds and curtains

Although you might not notice it, the sunlight shining in your room heats everything inside, including walls, furniture, etc. Although blinds and curtains aren’t aesthetically pleasing, they can be beneficial in preventing your AC from working extra hard to lower the temperature of a room that’s full of natural light.

Set the thermostat at 26C

If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, ensure that you set the temperature of your AC to 26C and avoid increasing it much more than that as it might cause problems such as dampness in walls and other issues related to humidity levels.

Turn off the AC if you leave

If you are leaving your home for a vacation or work, turn off the AC and ensure that it remains shut as well. It will save energy and allow your AC to cool down before switching it back on when coming back from work/vacation.

Install outdoor covers on your AC

Although most people might not be aware of this fact, installing outdoor covers on your AC is advisable. It will ensure that the outdoor unit gets cooled down and prevented from overheating and also allow you to use your AC more efficiently.

Plan ahead

Instead of switching on your AC as soon as you reach home, it’s better to plan and set the temperature on your thermostat in advance. For example, if you are likely to get home by 5 pm, set the AC four hours before reaching home so that it cools your room quickly.

Switch your AC on when you are in a room

If possible, switch on your AC only when you are in the room to not cool empty rooms and lower humidity levels unnecessarily. You can increase humidity levels quickly by placing a pan of water on the floor and opening doors to other rooms.

What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer – Conclusion

It is essential to stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the summer months. You can achieve this by setting up your AC properly according to temperature levels throughout the day. It would be best if you also attempted to keep humidity levels under control as well. The tips mentioned above will surely help you achieve this goal without spending too much on electricity bills.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/what-temperature-to-set-air-conditioner-in-summer/

How Long Do AC Units Last?

Whether you plan to buy a new AC unit or think about maintaining your current AC, you may come across one question, “how long do AC units last?” It may be devastating to know that your comfort companion won’t last a lifetime.

An Air conditioner is a machine with multiple components and parts working together at the same time. It has a compressor, condenser coils, evaporator coil, refrigerant, motor, fans, etc. Each of these components requires proper care to function properly.

Those well-maintained AC units usually last 10 to 15 years. However, the home air conditioner’s lifespan varies based on several factors. Now, let’s deep dive into each aspect to learn more about how long AC units last!

What Affects the Lifespan of Your Air Conditioner?

When it comes to determining the lifespan of AC units, several factors will affect it. Let’s identify these factors below:

AC System Age – AC Systems have different average ages when they reach their half-life. For instance, a central AC system lasts 15 years, while window models stay around ten years.

Maintenance – The more you maintain your AC, the longer it will last. It is best to perform routine preventive maintenance at least once per year to ensure proper operation of the unit.

Usage – If you use your AC unit most of the time, you may reduce its lifespan by approximately 15% compared to being used sparingly.

Weather Conditions – The heat and humidity can harm an AC unit’s lifespan. Therefore, the more you use your air conditioner to battle against extreme climates, the sooner it will break down. It is especially true for areas that experience harsh weather conditions all year long.

Location/Climate – If you live in a mild climate and moderately use your AC most of the time, then chances are higher that it will last longer. A hot and humid location with abusive climate conditions such as hurricanes, tornadoes or forest fires with smoke damage may decrease the lifespan of your system.

Manufacturers/Models – When we talk about how long AC units last, manufacturers and models also play a significant role. Those AC units built with high-quality parts and materials may last longer than those with as many internal components to support durability. In general, the more expensive brands tend to last longer as compared to cheaper brands as well.

Size – AC units that are too big or too small will not function as efficiently compared to those with their temperature in a balanced range (not too cold and not too hot). It would be best to purchase an AC unit with the correct size based on the space it needs to cool down or heat up.

How to Extend Air Conditioner Lifespan?

There are many things you can do to help your air conditioner lasts long. However, it needs proper steps and techniques for a much better result! Here is a list of 7 tips that will help you increase your home air conditioner’s lifespan:

Clean it regularly

Dirty evaporator coils reduce airflow efficiency by up to 30%. Ensure both indoor and outdoor coils are clean for maximum performance.

Change air filters monthly

It would help if you changed filters monthly at least once a month to prevent dirt from accumulating inside the system as a routine practice. A clogged filter will reduce airflow, which means it will take longer for AC to cool the indoor environment even though you have set the desired temperature so high!

Standard air filters reduce airflow by up to 30%, whereas specially designed high-performance filters are available in the market, which reduces airflow by only 5%.

Cover outdoor units

If you have an outdoor unit, place a cover on it or provide shade covering during the summer months so that you won’t excessively expose your AC to heat and humidity outside. Also, outdoor units do not benefit from rainwater and wind blowing over them since they need stable temperatures for proper operation and deck drainage systems. 

Turn off the thermostat when not in use

Your thermostat is programmed to turn your AC off when it reaches a certain temperature set point, but you should turn off the thermostat when it is not in use. Also, adjust the temperature setting on your thermostat to ensure maximum energy efficiency.

Clean condenser coils

The build-up of dirt and dust on your unit’s outdoor coils reduces its ability to cool your home space properly. Clean or replace the evaporator coil annually for best results.

Perform regular maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on your AC will help it last longer. Clean or replace air filters, check refrigerant charge levels and perform all other recommended tasks as per manufacturer guidelines for optimum performance. In addition, avoid placing objects on top of the unit outside unless these are items that cover it from rainwater!

When is The Best Time to Replace Your AC Unit?

You can’t expect your AC unit to last forever, and there comes the point in time when it will start showing signs of wear and tear. Keeping up with regular maintenance can delay this process, but some AC units fail earlier than others, depending on how the owner takes care of it over their lifetime.

Here are a few signs that indicate you need to replace your home air conditioner:

• Not as Efficient as It Used to Be
• Costly repair bills
• Frequent service calls
• Excessive humidity inside your home
• Uneven temperature distribution
• Water leakage around air conditioner units
• Higher utility bills as compared to other homes in your neighbourhood

If you have noticed any of these signs for a year or so, it’s time to replace your AC unit. It will be a wise investment for you and save you money on repair bills in the long run. Just make a quick call to a professional air conditioner replacement service to get a free estimate.

Replace old single-stage AC with new energy-efficient two-stage models that have SEER ratings of 16 or higher. Also, focus more on insulation and sealing since they play significant roles in saving cooling costs too!

How Long Do AC Units Last – Conclusion

An AC system is undoubtedly one of the most valuable appliances in your life. Still, it is best to give regular care and maintenance to ensure trouble-free functioning over its lifetime. A standard AC unit lasts for 10 to 15 years, while a high-efficiency unit may last 20+ years.

However, proper care involving regular maintenance can help you prolong their lifespans by several years. Just follow the tips mentioned above and tricks to keep your home AC unit in great shape for years to come.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/how-long-do-ac-units-last/

How to Size an Air Conditioner?

When people ask “how to size an air conditioner,” it doesn’t involve the physical dimensions of the unit itself. You need to measure the cooling capacity the system is capable of producing as well.

While different-sized units may look identical on the outside, they may have very different capabilities when it comes to cooling your space efficiently. While choosing the most oversized AC you can get is tempting, a bigger one isn’t always the best. So how can you find out the capacity you need? We’ll walk you through it.

Why is it Important to Get the Right Size?

There are several reasons why choosing the right sized AC is so essential. First of all, an AC that’s too small will constantly run to keep it cool. It can be both unpleasant and expensive in the long term. It is uncomfortable because it means you’re living in a house with no relief from the sweltering heat outside. After all, constantly running the unit uses more electricity than usual.

Secondly, if your air conditioner is too big for the room, it may be unable to remove excess humidity from inside. It causes condensation to form on windows or visible areas within the home itself. While this isn’t dangerous in itself, it can lead to severe damage when not dealt with properly.

And finally, you want your air conditioner to provide you with all the benefits that it should. If your unit is already struggling to keep your room cool, it cannot operate at maximum capacity by filtering out pollutants or making the air more breathable.

What Factors Affect the Size of Your Air Conditioner?

There are several factors to take into consideration when trying to determine the right-sized air conditioner for your room, including:

Room size: The larger the room, the bigger your air conditioner needs to be. Consider the length, width, and ceiling height. A space with high ceilings needs more energy to cool.

Temperature: Obviously, how hot it is outside affects how quickly and efficiently your air conditioner will operate. An AC will typically use less energy when there’s either a low or high temperature outside because there’s less work to do.

The number of occupants: The more people in your home, the bigger your air conditioner needs to be. Personal comfort is essential in a home, and having enough space between you and your neighbour can make or break whether an AC feels like it’s giving you breathing room.

The number of windows: In some cases, the number of windows in a room may play a role in determining the cooling capacity required. Rooms with many windows can lose a considerable amount of heat from light shining through them. This factor makes it necessary for the AC unit to compensate by working harder than average to keep up.

Windows affect how much airflow you get through your unit. That’s why you’ll notice that some AC units are made specifically for windows, and others aren’t. The more open space there is around your window, the better.

Insulation: If you have insulation inside your walls, this will also play a role in the amount of energy it takes to cool your home. Rooms with low levels of insulation may require more units or units that are bigger than usual.

The indoor environment: If many people live inside who generate extra heat or rarely move about, this can cause problems too because constantly running during peak times will wear out your unit quickly. So consider where everyone is at different times of day when choosing your AC system size.

How to Find Out the Right Cooling Capacity?

The best way to determine the amount of cooling capacity you need is to plug everything into an energy calculator. It will give you a rough estimate on what size unit you’ll need, but keep in mind that this isn’t gospel. Different brands have different ratings and estimations, so take all of them with a grain of salt.

The most accurate way to know what size system is right for your home is to have a professional come out and do a load calculation to see how much work it will be for the AC to maintain the temperature levels in your home.

As a general rule-of-thumb, you can add together all sources of heat gain, including appliances, people, lights, etc., then add about 25% extra for the work it will take your AC to compensate.

If you don’t want to go through all of that, you can also estimate based on the consumed BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour of operation. A typical window unit for a small room is around 10,000 BTUs per hour, while central air conditioning units vary between .5 and 5 tons.

A .5 ton system uses about 12,500 BTUs/hr, which would require almost 2 of these units to keep up with an open concept dining/living room space where heat gain from appliances is at high levels during peak periods.

While the average home only needs about 8,000-12,000BTU/hr, having at least three such units would probably be enough to keep your home comfortable. You can never have too much or too little of a good thing when it comes to cooling capacity!

How HVAC Professionals Help Figure Out The Right AC Size?

If you want to keep your house comfortable and not spend more than necessary on your AC unit, then the best thing you can do is hire a professional HVAC technician.

An HVAC tech will assess your home, look at the amount of insulation in the walls and ceiling, see how many windows there are in each room, check for rooms that have been locked up or abandoned, etc., all to get a good idea of how much work each unit needs to perform to make everyone happy.

Technicians can also add or remove return ducts from particular areas when they see problems with airflow from one part of a house to another. It goes back to what we said earlier about insulating your air handler so that the airflow is as even and strong as possible.

When HVAC companies give you an estimate on what size unit you’ll need, don’t immediately dismiss any units more extensive than the ones they suggest. A good technician will say, “this is likely enough” or “this should do for now.” It means that having a unit this big or bigger might be necessary. It’s because there are factors unique to your particular living space that aren’t in the calculations.

How to Size an Air Conditioner – Conclusion

The short answer to the question “how to size an air conditioner?” depends on a lot of factors. If you keep these tips in mind, then sizing your air conditioner should be easy because your unit will have to do much less work to maintain an optimal temperature.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/how-to-size-an-air-conditioner/

Smart Thermostat vs Programmable: Which is The Best Option?

When it comes to being environmentally conscious, people have various opinions on saving energy and preserving our delicate planet. However, no matter how you choose to protect Mother Earth, there is one thing that everyone can agree on: You need an effective way to control the temperature inside your home!

People who live in warm climates might not mind leaving their air conditioners at full blast all day long. Still, those who reside where temperatures are more temperate will quickly start to lose their sanity if they don’t have a way to regulate the temperature in their homes.

There are many different ways to control the temperature inside your home, but most people use either a programmable or a smart thermostat. Are you trying to figure out which one is right for your home? Smart thermostat vs programmable? Let’s break down the differences between each thermostat.

What is a Smart Thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a programmable thermostat but with added “smart” features. It is an upgraded version of a programmable thermostat with added features such as live weather updates, geofencing, auto-climate control, phone alerts, and even voice control.

Unlike the standard thermostats that require you to adjust the temperature inside your home manually, smart thermostats learn from the homeowner’s behaviours to provide the best comfort level for each user.

They can learn where you like your temperature set, when to increase the temperature based on your location, and even provide you with weather updates before leaving the house.

What are The Benefits of Using Smart Thermostats?

There are many benefits to using smart thermostats. Let’s look at some of the best ones:

Reduce Energy Costs

The best benefit of using a smart thermostat is that it can help you save money on your monthly energy bills. Smart thermostats allow you to customize your heating and cooling system to run at the most efficient level.

You can use your smart thermostat to reduce the temperature in your home when you are not at home so that it doesn’t constantly run to maintain an optimal temperature.

It also allows you to monitor how long you have had the air conditioner or heater running to avoid wasting energy trying to cool down or heat a space.

Adjust your Cooling Preferences According to Schedule

Since smart thermostats learn from your daily routine and preferences, it is easy to create a schedule that allows your system to adjust according to how you live.

For example, you may set the temperature in the house at 68 degrees during the day when everyone is awake and at 70 degrees when you’re sleeping.

Control Your Thermostat Remotely

Another nice feature of buying a smart thermostat is that you can control the temperature inside your home whether you are at work or on vacation.

Since most people use their smartphones for everything, it only makes sense to allow homeowners to control their heating and cooling systems with their smartphones!

Long-Term Learning

Some smart thermostats are programmed to recognize patterns and will automatically adjust the temperature inside your home. This advanced feature allows you to receive information about your heating or cooling system without constantly changing it yourself.

What is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat gives you more control over the temperature in your home than just using an old mechanical model but doesn’t offer all of the extra features that many smart thermostats do.

Programmable thermostats allow you to set temperatures according to time of day or location. For example, you can program the temperature inside your home to automatically increase by 2 degrees when you leave work so that it is nice and cool when you return home.

You can also adjust the temperature at night to not wake up to a freezing house in the winter or an uncomfortably hot bedroom in the summertime.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Programmable Thermostat?

Anyone looking for a new thermostat should consider getting a programmable one because it is easy to use and provides many benefits. Here is what some homeowners find useful about using programmable models:

Provides reliable precision

You can rely on your programmable thermostat to precisely regulate the temperature in your home so that you always know what to expect.

Programmable thermostats are highly accurate and will help you save money without constantly thinking about adjusting your system.

Can be used Year-Round

The nice thing about programmable models is that they are not just for the winter months. You can use these devices all year round to not heat or cool a space!

Improved zoned temperature control

Some programmable thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature of different rooms in your home independently. It makes it easy to cool down the room you are currently occupying without overcooling other home areas.

Why Are Programmable Thermostats Less Expensive Than Smart Ones?

One of the reasons why many homeowners choose to purchase a programmable model instead of a smart one is because they cost less money.

Since smart devices collect information and learn from patterns, they need advanced technology and calibration to provide reliable results. It causes prices for these models to be slightly higher than programmable ones and saves you money in the long run!

However, there are many inexpensive options available, so don’t let price concerns prevent you from buying a smart thermostat.

Programmable vs. Smart Thermostats: Which to Choose?

The choice between a programmable and a smart thermostat is a personal one. Both products have their benefits, but you should consider which type of model will improve your home’s heating and cooling performance.

If you are looking for something that provides reliable precision, then go with a programmable thermostat. These devices are straightforward to use and don’t require as much upkeep as innovative models do.

On the other hand, if you prefer to control the temperature from anywhere or worry about saving money on energy costs, then investing in a smart device may be a better option for you! 

Smart Thermostat vs Programmable – Conclusion

Both programmable and smart thermostats provide lots of benefits and help homeowners save money on their monthly energy bills. However, it would be best if you considered some differences between the two before making your purchase.

Smart models allow you to control your system remotely, receive notifications about heating or cooling, and automatically adjust temperatures for maximum savings. In contrast, programmable models remain less expensive but must be set manually by pressing buttons on the device itself. It all comes down to personal preferences when deciding which one is best for your home, so take some time to do your research and compare prices!

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/smart-thermostat-vs-programmable/

What is Central Air Conditioning System?

What is central air conditioning system? A central air conditioning system is the most common cooling system among different types of cooling systems. Its components are placed at a centralized place, typically on the roof or sometimes in the basement. Usually, we use centralized AC for large-sized houses or commercial purposes.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current AC unit or planning to install one for the first time, it’s essential to understand things about central AC systems.

What is Central Air Conditioning?

Central air conditioning is a system in which equipment and machinery components are located at a central place. While ducts and vents distribute the conditioned air to different rooms, these systems can provide comfort throughout your entire house for cooling and heating purposes.

In addition to cooling the room, this kind of AC system also filters out dirt from the air entering your home. It is an additional feature that you can find in some AC systems.

A central air conditioning’s primary components are:

• Refrigerant lines: This runs through your house’s heating/cooling vents to transport the refrigerant.
• Condenser coils: As the refrigerant flows through the coils, it absorbs heat from your home. It changes refrigerant gas into a liquid form.
• Evaporator coils: You can find these inside your central air conditioning system. The evaporator coils absorb heat from the room and emit cold air by turning liquid gas into vapour through compression.
• Compressor: This runs by electricity or gas to supply the right amount of refrigerant needed for the system.
• Receiver: The receiver may look like a small metallic box, and it typically rests on top of the condensing unit, which means its most common location would be on your roof. It’s a storage tank for the water and Freon.
• Ducts: This part of the AC system captures cooled air inside the house and distributes it to different vents.
• Thermostat: This is a device that controls the temperature inside your home.

How Does a Central Air Conditioner Work?

Central air conditioners work by the same principle as a regular AC unit. However, instead of having one system in your home or office, you have a central AC system with multiple components located at a centralized place.

Refrigerant is a chemical solution that converts liquid into a gas at low temperatures. The refrigerant circulates through the air conditioner, absorbing heat from the house and then transporting it outside continuously.

1. The evaporator coil pumps the cold refrigerant. A fan blows air through the evaporator coil, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air to cool it down. The air ducts disperse the cooled air throughout your house.
2. Hot, low-pressure refrigerant vapour travels into the compressor, which is connected to the condenser coils. The hot vapours are further compressed into a high-pressure liquid, which changes its state from liquid to gas into a high-pressure vapour.
3. Hot, high-pressure refrigerant vapour travels into the condenser. A fan blows on it, cooling down the gas and turning them into a low-pressure vapour. The refrigerant then changes its state from gas to liquid to a low-pressure liquid.
4. The liquid refrigerant moves to the expansion valve, which controls the refrigerant liquid’s pressure. This liquid goes to the evaporator coils, where a fan blows it through and absorbs heat. This liquid refrigerant changes its state from low-pressure liquid to high-pressure gas, which begins the cooling cycle again.

What are The Advantages of Central Air Conditioning Systems?

Centralized AC systems offer many advantages over regular window units. There are also other benefits such as:

Better Air Quality

Central AC systems have more powerful filters that distribute clean air throughout your whole house. It means your entire family can breathe clean, fresh air every time you turn on the unit. In addition to filtering dust, pollen, and pet dander from the outside, you will also experience a cooling breeze of clean air inside your room.

Since the system has a higher capacity for cooling and heating, it circulates tremendous amounts of cool or hot air faster than regular window units.

Reduced Noise

Central AC systems are much quieter than window units, which tend to have many moving parts. Centralized AC systems have much less vibration because their motors are located outside your home, away from the system itself. Window units typically have motors that vibrate against windows during operation, which makes them noisier. You can enjoy a quiet night while the system is running.

Energy Efficiency

Central AC systems have a higher energy efficiency rate compared to regular window units. Their larger capacity for cooling and heating allows them to maintain optimum indoor temperatures without making too much noise or consuming too much power. It means you will save on utility bills when using central AC systems instead of window units.

Easier Maintenance

Large, centralized AC systems have a much easier time maintaining optimal energy efficiency and cooling or heating your home because they have a larger capacity to cool the air in your house. In addition, you will spend less time cleaning these units because you can find their motors outside your home, unlike window units which have motors inside the unit itself.

Consistent Temperatures

Central AC systems ensure that the temperature in every room of your house is at a comfortable level. In addition to providing various cooling modes, you can also adjust the temperature from each room because centralized AC systems have multiple thermostats installed throughout your home.

It means that whether you are in your living room, dining area, or bedroom, you will always be able to control the temperature and airflow your unit provides. With window units, however, there is usually only one thermostat in the system itself.

Split or Packaged: Which Central AC System is Better?

A packaged or split central air conditioning system has an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor air-handling unit for your home.

Packaged Central Air Conditioning Systems

This type of system is the most common because it requires less installation time, costs less to purchase, and may be better for smaller homes. The units are typically installed outside near where your furnace resides. It means that you do not have to run more extended ductwork into your house, saving money on installation costs.

However, since the condenser is outside your house, it can also be more difficult to service when the time comes. What’s more, if you want a wall-mounted thermostat inside instead of a handheld one, this option might not work for you.

Split System Central Air Conditioning Systems

Split systems are more expensive to purchase initially, but they provide a more quiet and even airflow throughout your home. Installers place the unit’s compressor outside your home while the air handler is inside. The benefit of this system is that you will not have a condenser running out in your yard near where you will be grilling and having fun with family and friends on those hot days.

In addition, it may reduce noise from regular window units because the compressor is outside the house. Also, you can control the temperature from different locations inside or outside your home since there are multiple thermostats installed in these systems, which regular window units do not have. In contrast to packaged central AC systems, however, this option might be more difficult to service when the time comes.

What is Central Air Conditioning System – Conclusion

Central AC systems tend to be the best option for homeowners because of their larger cooling capacity, more accessible maintenance characteristics, and consistent temperatures throughout your home. However, it would be best to consider the initial cost of installation and potential repairs or service visits in the future when deciding which type to purchase.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/what-is-central-air-conditioning-system/

How Much Does a New HVAC System Cost?

No homeowner looks forward to the day their HVAC system fails. It’s likely one of the most dreaded home system replacements. But, you shouldn’t fear the HVAC system replacement cost so much that it discourages you from pursuing a new heating or cooling unit.

“How much does a new HVAC system cost?” is one of the most common questions homeowners ask. More often than not, homeowners find themselves asking this question when their system breaks down. And while the answer should always be “it depends,” there are things you should consider before just jumping to purchase a new unit.

HVAC System Costs

The average cost to replace an HVAC unit is $4,820 to $9,350. It includes the fee for a new gas furnace and a new central air conditioner unit. On average, homeowners spend $7,770 to replace a gas furnace and an air conditioner. However, the cost can be as low as $2,415 or as high as $12,835, depending on geographical location and the type of HVAC unit you choose.

HVAC Unit Installation Costs

The costs associated with HVAC unit replacement can exceed $10,000 if you opt to hire professionals. The fee is usually contingent on the location of your home and the brand or type of new system you want. Generally, homeowners spend around $4,820 to $9,350 for installing an HVAC system.

If you need to install an HVAC unit with ductwork, the average cost ranges from $6,820 to $12,350. Remember, most HVAC system installation jobs usually need new ductwork. If you need an HVAC system replacement, you should replace your ductwork at the same time. Homeowners spend an average of $8,170 to $14,100 on ductwork replacement.

What Factors Affect HVAC Replacement Cost?

It would be best if you first asked for second opinions, both from your HVAC technician and other contractors. You want to make sure that the issue is related to the unit itself. Otherwise, you could avoid unnecessary replacement costs.

Once you confirm that you need to install a new system, it’s time to consider what type of heating or cooling unit you’ll need. If you can’t determine it by the installation time, there are many types of units available on the market today.

Here are some common factors associated with the cost: 

Size: The size of the unit needs to be determined by considering how large or small your space is and how much heat or cold it can accommodate.

Energy Efficiency: Because energy costs are continuously rising, you’ll want to find a heating or cooling unit that will save money on your monthly bills. You can look for units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings (SEER).

Features: Some units may include additional features, like wireless thermostats or touch screens. Price can increase with these added features. 

Current ductwork conditions: If your HVAC unit is not suitable for the space, there might be a need to update your duct system. However, it can increase costs as well.

Local climate conditions: You may need to equip corrosion-resistant materials for your HVAC system if you’re in a coastal area. Prices may also increase if you reside where the temperature frequently drops below freezing because of heating needs.

Installation costs: Installation costs typically run around $300 to $600, which is in addition to the price of your unit itself.

How Often Should HVAC Be Replaced?

Many factors can affect the lifespan of your HVAC unit. The amount of usage, location, and climate conditions are just some examples. If you’re still not sure if it’s time to replace your unit, consider these key signs:

Source of food for rodents is easy to find

Rodents like raccoons and squirrels can infest your duct system, which typically leads to more severe issues. When this happens, you’ll be able to see rodent droppings and other debris around the unit.

HVAC smells strange

If your old system emits a strange smell, it could indicate mould or mildew growth inside the ductwork or even in the inner workings of the unit itself. An unclean system provides an excellent breeding ground for harmful bacteria and other microorganisms, making you sick when inhaled by humans. If you notice any unusual odours coming from your unit, it’s best to get it inspected right away.

HVAC equipment is ten years or older

If your unit is already ten years or older, then you should consider replacing it soon. On average, units last between 13 and 15 years before needing replacement. If your equipment is beyond this age bracket, repairing costs can be costly compared to the price of a new system.

Unusually high energy bills

Suppose you notice that your monthly energy bills are much higher than usual for no good reason. In that case, it’s time to have the HVAC unit inspected right away to look for any issues with airflow or lack thereof due to dirty filters causing poor air quality within the system. If technicians find no problems with airflow but your energy bills remain high, it could mean that it’s time to replace your current system.

How To Calculate HVAC Installation Costs

HVAC installation costs will depend on the size of your unit, how many units you need, and if there are any ductwork modifications required. If your home is an average size with a single floor and no attic or crawlspace, you can expect to pay around $3,770 for a 16-SEER system. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include related fees like permits or other required building materials.

The two main factors in the price of a new HVAC system are labour and material. Labour includes all of the work done by technicians during HVAC installation such as setting up equipment, moving furniture out of the way, installing insulation products, running wiring from the thermostat location to the furnace or air handler location, making any required electrical or plumbing connections, and checking for leaks.

The cost of materials primarily depends on the type of equipment you choose. It includes items like your furnace, ductwork material, inner lining insulation, outer jacketing insulation, filters, wires, and other HVAC installation materials.

How Much Does a New HVAC System Cost – Conclusion

If you find yourself in the position of needing to choose a new HVAC system, it’s essential to do your research and understand all of the factors that will determine the price.

HVAC installation costs can be hard to estimate without seeing what you need to install for your home. It is why it’s never advisable to pick out a furnace or air conditioner based on price alone. You need an expert opinion first, so you know how much everything will cost before making any decisions.

If you’re looking into upgrading your current HVAC system or needing a new unit installed soon, use this guide to learn more about how much does a new HVAC system costs.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/how-much-does-a-new-hvac-system-cost/

7 Tips for Reducing Your Cooling Costs

By now, most of us have gotten used to the fact that heating bills can be expensive in the winter. But what about those who live and work in warmer climates? Our air conditioning system is a significant source of home and office energy usage during the summer, and paying for it can hurt your wallet.

So if you live and work somewhere where it tends to get hot, what can you do? We’ve put together a list of options for reducing the energy your AC unit uses. Here are some of the ways to save big bucks on your cooling costs!

1. Install a Smart Thermostat

For those who want their temperature control to be as efficient as possible, installing a smart thermostat is the way to go. This type of thermostat allows you more control over your home or office’s temperature level.

Not only do these devices allow you to manually turn off and on your AC system when it isn’t needed, but they are also able to monitor the temperature in different places throughout your home. They can then adjust settings based on which rooms are hotter or colder, thus creating more even temperatures throughout the building.

Here are other benefits of using a smart thermostat:

• Easy to install – Most models allow you to set the temperature and connect the device simply through your Wi-Fi.
• You can control it from anywhere – Download an app on your phone, tablet, or computer and change the settings at work, school, or even while you’re vacationing!
• They will reduce energy usage – Most models can learn from your behaviour and turn off when they sense no one is home.
• Significantly lower cooling bills – Over time, a smart thermostat can save you as much as 15% on cooling costs.

2. Increase Your Thermostat Setting a Few Degrees

Can you comfortably raise the temperature on your thermostat by a few degrees? We understand that doing so can be difficult, especially for those who are cost-conscious. However, keep in mind that every degree higher you increase is equivalent to significant savings on your cooling costs.

Many people choose to turn the temperature on their AC down very low (such as 78 degrees) during scorching times of the day. While this saves money, you can save even more by turning it up a few degrees (like 82). An increase of just 4 degrees leads to savings of 10 percent or more on your cooling costs.

3. Add More Insulation

Here is something you might want to try for those who aren’t satisfied with their home’s insulation. Adding more insulation around the exterior walls of your house can drastically reduce the amount of time it takes for your AC unit to bring in cool air and send out hot air.

It can prevent your home from getting too hot during the day and help keep it colder at night. It is because insulation helps retain cool air inside your home for a more extended period than it would otherwise.

How does home insulation help reduce your cooling cost?

• It helps prevent your AC from overworking – By not having to work as hard, insulation will extend the life of your home’s cooling unit.
• It keeps out hot air – In turn, this means that heat doesn’t have anywhere to go but outside. On a hot day, this can make a huge difference.
• In the long run, insulation is an investment worth making – You will be able to use your AC more as intended and reap the rewards of lower cooling bills each month as a result.

If you have been considering making changes to reduce your energy costs, adding insulation should be on the list.

4. Use Fans Strategically Throughout Your Home

Using fans strategically ensures that you’ll get more use out of them than just sitting in the corner of your room unused. For instance, consider placing a fan near a window that faces the direction where the wind usually blows.

By doing this, you can draw cool air into your home without having to turn on your AC system at all. And using ceiling fans is an excellent way to send hot air out of your house during the summer.

5. Limit the Use of heat-producing Appliances

If you cook a lot, then the chances are that your home will have lighting and ovens on throughout the day. While this may not seem like much, lighting and cooking can make your home feel hot.

So if possible, consider shutting off these appliances when they aren’t in use. It is crucial during the hours of the day where the sun shines directly into your windows, as it can cause quite a bit of excess heat to enter your room.

Here are some examples of heat-producing appliances:

• ovens
• microwaves
• grills
• dishwashers
• washing machines
• dryers

6. Conduct Frequent AC Maintenance

Taking good care of your AC system by having it checked for any problems each year can reduce cooling costs in several ways. For one thing, an AC unit that has just had its annual check-up probably uses less power than one that has no maintenance at all.

And if the system does have some issues with it, waiting to address them will cost you more money in the long run. Remember, a check-up today can save you lots of frustration and cash tomorrow!

7. Increase Your Air Conditioning System’s Efficiency

When choosing an air conditioning system for your home or office space, be sure to select one with high-efficiency ratings. Most AC units feature energy-efficient technologies such as heating coils and refrigerators, providing better cooling performance while using less energy.

Be sure to choose an AC system that fits appropriately for the layout of your building and for the climate in which you live or work. Oversized units also use more power than they should. A general rule of thumb that most contractors follow is that one ton of cooling capacity per 100 square feet of living space is sufficient.

Reducing Your Cooling Costs – Conclusion

Whether you are looking for ways to keep cool during the summer months or you want to save money on your energy bill throughout the year, there are plenty of simple changes that you can make within your daily routine.

By adding more insulation to your home, investing in more fans, limiting heat-producing appliances, you can see a significant difference in how much you can save on your cooling costs. Also, don’t forget to conduct frequent maintenance checks and increase the efficiency of your AC system.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/7-tips-for-reducing-your-cooling-costs/

Heating & Air Conditioning Basics

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are known as HVAC. No matter where you live in the world, this will be a term that you frequently hear if you are involved in building structures or maintaining them. When it comes to keeping things comfortable in the home, few other inventions have been beneficial to humanity in indoor climates.

This article will help you understand the HVAC basics and some information about their inner workings, which should help with understanding why they work the way they do.

Heating and Cooling Systems

There are some standard heating and cooling systems that you should know. Every system has its price and uses. So, let’s take a look at the most common HVAC systems that we use.

Central system

The central system is the most common type of air conditioning and heating system. This system includes a furnace, an AC unit, ductwork, and vents where the air gets distributed throughout your home.

The advantage of this system is that it can heat and cool the entire home. The disadvantage is that it needs professional installation, so if you are not familiar with HVAC systems, it’s best to find a professional to do the job.

Heat pump

A heat pump is a combination of central heating and air conditioning systems. This system features one outdoor unit that provides both heating and cooling throughout the house. Hot water or electricity is used for heating while the cold air is conditioned and distributed via ductwork and vents throughout your home.

Furnace

A furnace functions by blowing heated air via ducts that provide warm air to different areas of your house through grills or air registers. We call this kind of heating unit a forced warm-air or ducted warm-air distribution system. A furnace can work by natural gas, electricity, or fuel oil.

Air conditioner

Air conditioners offer cool air to the entire home, and they require a powerful fan or blower to distribute it evenly throughout your house via ductwork and vents.

Essential HVAC Components

All types of HVAC systems need a compressor and condenser to work. The compressor circulates the refrigerant, and this is what cools down your indoor unit. When it gets hot outdoors, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in your home or commercial building.

A condenser then rejects that heat outside through an exhaust system into the outdoors. Now let’s look at some essential parts of an HVAC system you should know about:

• Indoor Unit: The indoor unit has a blower, coil, and fan for blowing and circulating air throughout your home and ductwork to distribute it properly. The fan blows out hot air while the coil absorbs water and releases cold air into your home.
• Coil: Coils are from aluminum or copper tubing surrounded by the refrigerant. When the compressor circulates the refrigerant through the coils, the cooling process begins. It gives your home cool air to enjoy during warmer months.
• Blower: A blower works with a fan to circulate cool air so you can enjoy it in every room of your home. Without a blower, you would not have enough cool air coming into your house to keep it comfortable enough.
• Compressor: The compressor squeezes the refrigerant and sends it to your indoor unit’s coil. When the air passes over this coil, it cools down and gives your house a comfortable climate throughout the summer months.
• Condenser: The condenser takes heat from the hot compressed gas before it goes back to the compressor, which means you get warm outdoor air for your home or building to enjoy during warmer months of the year.
• Exhaust System: An exhaust system is made up of rigid metal ducting that releases hot air outdoors so you can have cooler indoor temperatures without having too high of electric bills for this to happen efficiently.
• Filter: A filter helps take out dirt particles in your home, so you don’t breathe in harmful things that make you sick.
• Inverter: Inverters are a reliable feature because they automatically change speeds according to need, saving you money on your electric bills when the AC is in use.

How Does an HVAC System Work?

Understanding how an HVAC system works starts with the different types of systems out there. We went over some basic facts about these systems, but let’s get down to the nitty-gritty on how these machines make your home comfortable all summer long.

When it comes to cooling down your home, you will need an indoor unit that has a blower fan and coil for absorbing moisture in incoming air so it can release cool air back into your house. Without this coil, your home would not have enough cool air to keep residents or workers feeling comfortable during warmer months of the year.

Most homes have ductwork built into their design that distributes this cool air throughout every room properly. If you are looking to improve airflow in certain parts of your house, you will need to make some minor changes like turning off the system and allowing the air to circulate back into the unit for a few minutes before turning it on.

Once your home or building has cooled down enough, your HVAC system will automatically shut off until hot air builds up again as temperatures outside cool down as well. This process happens throughout the day as needed—there’s no need to adjust any settings on your unit unless you want more airflow at certain times of day or night.

When it comes time to heat a space in the winter months, you will need an indoor unit with a fan and coil with a heating function. Most people have ductwork built directly into their design so warm air can get into their home or building without any problems.

Take the time to inspect your ducts for leaks and breaks to get the most heating power possible from your unit.

HVAC Basics – Conclusion

HVAC systems can vary depending on the type of system and heating or cooling it is to accommodate. Still, one thing is for sure—you will need a quality unit with quality parts to get your home comfortable all year long, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank when buying an air conditioner or heater.

This article is to introduce you to the HVAC basics. Most of us need a basic understanding of these systems before learning how to properly maintain our unit and keep it in good condition for years and years.

https://ac-repair-mississauga.ca/heating-air-conditioning-basics/