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As homeowners, it's essential to keep an eye on your HVAC system to ensure it's running efficiently and safely. However, some red flags may indicate problems that need urgent attention. In this article, we'll highlight some common HVAC red flags to watch for to help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your family's safety.

Strange Noises Coming from Your HVAC System

One of the most common red flags to look out for is strange noises coming from your HVAC system. If you hear rattling, banging, or screeching sounds, it could indicate loose or worn parts. These issues can cause more significant problems if not addressed promptly, resulting in costly repairs or even a complete system breakdown.

Strange Smells Coming from Your HVAC System

Another red flag to keep an eye on is the presence of strange smells. If you detect a musty or burning odor, it could mean there's a problem with your HVAC system. A burning smell is often associated with electrical issues, while a musty smell could indicate mold or mildew growth in your ductwork.

High Energy Bills as an HVAC Red Flag

In addition to strange noises and smells, high energy bills can also be a red flag that your HVAC system isn't working efficiently. If you notice a significant increase in your energy bills, it may be time to have your system inspected by a professional. An HVAC technician can diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs to improve your system's efficiency and reduce your energy costs.

Poor Air Quality and Your HVAC System

Finally, poor air quality can also be a red flag that your HVAC system needs attention. If you or your family members suffer from allergies or respiratory issues, poor indoor air quality can exacerbate these conditions. Dirty air filters, ductwork, and vents can all contribute to poor air quality, so it's crucial to have your system maintained regularly to ensure clean, healthy air.

When the temperature outside starts to dip, the last thing you want to deal with is cold air inside.

While modern furnaces are designed to offer warm and cozy temperatures, sometimes they may start to blow cold air. If you're in this situation, don't worry, we've got some tips on how to troubleshoot your furnace if it's blowing cold air.

Reasons Why Your Home's Heat Is Struggling

The Pilot Light is Damaged

Furnaces feature a pilot light that helps ignite the gas and keep it burning. If this light is damaged or in need of repair, then your furnace won't be able to generate any heat. If you look at your pilot light and it's not lit or flickering, you may need to reset the flame.

In most cases, you can restart the pilot light by following these steps:

• Find the pilot light shut-off switch and turn it to "off"
• Wait for about five minutes before turning it back to "on"
• Follow lighting instructions printed on the inside of your furnace door
• Once lit, check to make sure the flame is steady and not flickering

However, you may find that the pilot light won't stay lit and needs to be replaced. If this is the case, it's best to call an HVAC expert for advice and help.

Proper maintenance of your air conditioner is essential for keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. As your trusted A/C repair company, The A/C Guy, we're here to provide you with expert tips to keep your air conditioner in top shape. From thermostat calibration to scheduling regular AC tune-ups with us, these tips can help you stay cool, save money, and extend the life of your AC system.

Benefits of Routine Maintenance

Scheduling regular maintenance for your air conditioning system with The A/C Guy offers numerous benefits, ensuring that your system runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the year. Here are some key advantages of entrusting your A/C system's maintenance to our team of experts:

Reduces the risk of breakdowns and unnecessary repairs

Unexpected A/C breakdowns can be frustrating and expensive. With routine maintenance from The A/C Guy, our technicians can identify and fix minor issues before they escalate, minimizing the risk of breakdowns and the need for costly repairs.

Prolongs the life and efficiency of the system

Regular maintenance by The A/C Guy ensures that your AC system operates at peak efficiency. Our professional technicians will thoroughly inspect, clean, and fine-tune your system, optimizing its performance and reducing energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills and increased savings for you!

Helps maintain the manufacturer's warranty

Many manufacturers require regular maintenance to keep the warranty valid. By scheduling routine maintenance with The A/C Guy, you can ensure that your system remains under warranty, providing you with additional protection and peace of mind.

Owning a home can be a nuisance. On top of the monthly bills, renovations, and maintenance, you need to deal with dreaded repairs. As a homeowner, it's quite likely that you'll encounter your air conditioner leaking water at some point. What starts as a mild inconvenience can destroy ceilings, walls, and floors, not to mention the AC’s performance and efficiency. What’s worse, bio-growth can develop in moisture-ridden areas and pollute the air you breathe. And before you know it, your AC won't turn on or won't cool your house. We’re here to make sure that never happens. Our team at The AC Guy has repaired hundreds of leaky AC's, so we know a thing or two.

How Do I Know If My Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water?

If your AC is leaking water, something is halting its normal cooling cycle. There are signs you can watch for. Notice a puddle around your basement or closet unit, or smell something musty? The water from a leaking attic unit can flood your ceiling and drip down your walls while you’re out. The horror. They are, however, part of The AC Guy new AC unit installation.

Air Conditioner Leaking Water Due To The Damaged Drain Pan

Remember, the drain pan in your AC system catches the condensation on the coils as it drips off. Your drain pan setup will depend on the type of AC unit you have as well as its location. But the purpose remains the same. All systems have a primary drain pan directly underneath the evaporator coil.

Horizontal systems require a secondary drain pan, placed beneath the entire unit (not just the coil) to catch any runaway liquid from an AC dripping water, especially if the unit is in your attic.

Why does water form in my air conditioner?

Your AC’s inside unit contains the evaporator coil (pictured on the right) that cools the warm air blown over it. This causes condensation (moisture) to form on the coil, just like how water droplets form on a glass of cold water on a hot day include:

Winters in Conroe can be cold and damp, and summers can be hot and humid. It's crucial to have a reliable air conditioning system during the summer months and a reliable heating system during the winter months. But no matter how reliable your HVAC system may be, it is bound to require maintenance or repairs from time to time.

If your home's heating system is on the fritz, you'll need to find a reputable repair company to get it up and running again. But with so many options out there, how can you be sure you're choosing the best one for your needs?

The Risk of Choosing the First Option You Find

When it comes to choosing an HVAC repair company, it's essential to do your research and compare your options. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of choosing the first company they find without doing any research. This can be risky, as you may not get the best service possible.

Choosing a company that doesn't have a good reputation could lead to shoddy workmanship and could end up costing you more in the long run. Furthermore, if something goes wrong with your HVAC system after the repair has been carried out, you may have trouble getting the company to rectify the situation.

The last thing you want is to be left in the cold (or heat) with a sub-par HVAC repair company.

As a homeowner, it's not uncommon to notice your air conditioner's drainpipe dripping outside during the hot summer months. While it may seem like an issue, it's a normal occurrence. However, that doesn't mean you should ignore it altogether. In this blog post, we'll explore the causes of dripping AC drainpipes, whether it's cause for concern, and when to call The AC Guy for professional services.

Why Do AC Drainpipes Drip Outside?

To understand why your AC drainpipe is dripping outside, it's essential to know how your air conditioning system works. As your air conditioner runs, it draws in warm, humid air from inside your home and pushes it over the evaporator coil. This coil is very cold, and as the warm air passes over the coil, it causes the moisture in the air to condense and form droplets of water.

These droplets of water are then collected in the condensate pan beneath the evaporator coil. As the droplets accumulate, the pan eventually fills up and then the water is directed out of the home through the drainpipe. This process of removing excess moisture from the air helps ensure the air inside your home is cool and comfortable.

Causes of Dripping AC Drainpipes

Here are some common reasons why your AC drainpipe might be dripping outside:

Normal Operation

When the weather outside is hot and humid, your air conditioner will work harder to cool your home, leading to a higher production of condensation. If you observe water dripping from the drainpipe, don't be alarmed; this is a perfectly natural occurrence and not a sign of a problem.

Regular air conditioner maintenance and inspections are essential to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Getting an A.C. inspection can help to identify problems, spot potential hazards, and keep your energy bills low. This article will discuss the importance of getting an A.C. inspection and the various benefits it can bring.

What is an A.C. Inspection?

• A thorough check of all components of your air conditioning system
• An analysis of the airflow from the system
• A review of the system's refrigerant levels

Benefits of an A.C. Inspection

• Improved system efficiency
• Reduced energy costs
• Prolonged system lifespan

Your Guide to HVAC Maintenance

• Regular Filter Changes: One of the most important maintenance tasks is to regularly change the HVAC system's air filters. This should be done every 1-3 months, depending on the filter type and the level of dust or allergens in your environment. Clogged filters can restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, and lead to poor indoor air quality.
• Clean the Outdoor Unit: If you have a central air conditioning system, it likely has an outdoor unit. Regularly inspect and clean the outdoor unit to remove dirt, leaves, and debris that may accumulate on or around it. Ensure there is sufficient clearance around the unit to allow proper airflow.
• Check and Clean Vents and Ducts: Inspect the vents and ducts in your home or building to ensure they are clean and free from blockages. Use a vacuum or a brush to remove dust, dirt, or any obstructions that may hinder airflow. Clean ducts promote better indoor air quality and improve system efficiency.
• Check Thermostat Settings: Verify that your thermostat is working correctly and set at the desired temperature. If your thermostat has programmable features, take advantage of them to optimize energy usage and comfort levels. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for added convenience and energy savings.
• Inspect Electrical Connections: Regularly inspect electrical connections to ensure they are tight, secure, and free of corrosion. Faulty connections can lead to system malfunctions or even pose a safety hazard. If you notice any issues, contact The AC Guy so a professional HVAC technician can address them.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Some HVAC systems have moving parts that require lubrication to reduce friction and prevent excessive wear and tear. Consult your system's user manual or contact us to lubricate the necessary components.
• Clean Condensate Drain Line: Over time, the condensate drain line can become clogged with dirt, algae, or debris. Inspect and clean the drain line annually to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage. Consult a professional at The AC Guy for assistance.
• Schedule Professional Maintenance: While many maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, it's highly recommended to schedule annual professional HVAC maintenance. An experienced technician can thoroughly inspect, clean, and tune up your system, identifying any potential issues and ensuring optimal performance.
• Monitor System Performance: Pay attention to your HVAC system's performance. If you notice unusual noises, odors, reduced airflow, or inconsistent heating or cooling, it may indicate a problem. Addressing issues promptly can prevent further damage and costly repairs.
• Maintain Surrounding Area: Keep the area around your HVAC system clean and free from debris. Trim vegetation or bushes near the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow. Avoid storing items that could obstruct the system or restrict access for maintenance.