Showing posts with label Air Conditioner. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Air Conditioner. Show all posts
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What to do when AC does not turn on?

It is not wrong to say that we heavily rely on Air Conditioners to beat the heat and when we have an infant or elderly at home, it becomes essential to have fully functional AC for their overall health and wellbeing.

Firstly, the Air conditioner should not be taken for granted because when it breaks down, we can’t keep the serenity and straightly get mad. Before you fret, it’s better to assess the problem and identify the real reason behind this trouble. However, it sometimes gets difficult to figure out the exact issue – especially when AC has not been timely serviced.


The most common reasons AC won’t turn on

It’s common for homeowners to experience a problem with their ac unit occasionally. Before you rush to avail the services of an HVAC technician, follow the steps outlined below to identify and solve the problem.

Faulty motors:

Have you heard the unusual sounds before the unit stopped working altogether? If yes, then it is more likely the issue lies on the motor. To be surer, do a capacitor test to find out whether the problem is actually with the motor or not.

Faulty compressors:

The defective or broken compressor often makes the air conditioner to shut down. Timely cleaning and maintenance can go a long way to help prevent these problems.

The thermostat needs to be replaced:

A broken or outdated thermostat that either needs a battery or has some other technical fault can immediately stop the ac from turning on. If you have the basic knowledge for HVAC, you can conveniently identify the issue by yourself or go through the various settings of the Thermostat to make sure it works properly.

Dirty condenser lines:

Condenser lines that have mold, algae grown-up can sometimes be a reason for the air conditioner's sudden breakdown. The AC condenser unit is generally outside the home, and you can clean all the mess inside with white vinegar.

The fuse is not working:

You can do a continuity test with a multimeter to find out whether the fuse is working correctly or not. If you hear no beep in the multimeter, then the reason behind AC not turning is: “blown fuse”.

Tripped circuit breaker:

When there is a massive electricity overload, it is very likely for the circuit breaker to trip and interrupt the power flowing. The reason behind breakers tripping can be using too many appliances at the same time or having outdated equipment that consumes more electricity. 

Replace or repair the unit:

AC problems are frustrating and even worse when the AC does not turn on altogether. Generally, modern Air Conditioners have a life expectancy up to 15-20 years. However, timely maintenance can extend the useful life to a significant extent. It is best to replace the 12 years old unit with a more cost-effective unit. If the Ac is not that old and repair does not cost you more than 50% of the overall value of the unit, then better go for repair.

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What causes Air Conditioner fires and how to avoid them?

They say, 'Prevention is better than cure''. And they say it right. Adopting preventive measures to avoid Air Conditioner fires can save you from massive property damages and life losses. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) of the United States provided with astonishing figures of annual damages and losses caused by Air Conditioner fires. Here is a summary of the 2016 report covering the data for the year 2014;

- Around 78,000 home structure fires were reported to have been caused by AC fan or other Air Conditioner equipment. 
- A life loss of 50 people was recorded in 2014 in the US alone while over 200 were sent for medical treatment as a result of mild or severe injuries.
- A property loss of 213 million dollars also resulted from these fires.  
- From 2006-2010, up to 2,500 fires were caused by Air Conditioners annually. The fires caused by Heat Pumps were 500 (This does not imply that heat pump does not cause a fire. The difference in the number is due to the fact that more people use Air Conditioners).


What causes Air Conditioner Fires? 

Since Air Conditioner is an electrical-mechanical appliance, the fires usually have the very reason behind; electrical or mechanical. For example; up to 33% of fires in previous years were caused by failing insulation of the wire or cable, short-circuiting, over-heating of the appliance or poor wiring material used. 

Ways to prevent Air Conditioner fires 

- Strictly avoid over-usage

As mentioned above, over-usage was among the top reasons for fires as it over-heats at the appliance. It is common among Canadian homeowners to constantly run the Air Conditioner during hot summers. But whether it's a Split Air Conditioner or a Central Air Conditioner, non-stop usage is one BIG MISTAKE. And since a lot of people haven't yet shifted to Programmable or Smart Thermostats, the AC keeps on running on unusually high temperatures resulting in high bills and burdening the system.
So the solution is; avoid over-usage of the appliance and follow the right practices; turn off or lower the system when not in use. Choose hours of the day to give rest to the system. Use additional appliances; fan, portable Air Conditioner or fans as alternatives to give rest to the system and to use them when there are only a few people at home. 

- Maintenance ensures safety 

While a lot of homeowners think that the rant of HVAC technicians about Air Conditioner maintenance is just their way of ensuring more customers to make more money, the truth is that maintenance is a genuine need of the appliance. And, avoiding or postponing it becomes the cause of big loss and massive damage. Almost all the reasons for fires caused by Air Conditioner can be traced back to this one reason of no or bad maintenance. For instance; dirty filters cause fires, damaged wires that do not get in time repair cause fires, improperly functioning of fan motor cause fires, dried operational parts which produce sparks cause fires and the list of reasons goes on. All these reasons are those which can be identified and fixed if the appliance is given in time maintenance. 

To cut the long story short, the simplest and easiest ways to avoid Air Conditioner fires is to;
- Avoid over-usage
- Provide the system with regular maintenance 

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Common Furnace problems and their solutions

With the arrival of winters when days and nights start getting colder, people usually prefer to
carry out the function of their furnaces; particularly Canadians whose most favourite home heating element is nothing but furnace. The problem; however, arises when homeowners feel their Furnace is not working properly and look out for HVAC help to resolve the issue or consider minimizing the issue by applying various DIY techniques.

This blog is dedicated to the solutions to common Furnace problems. But before going into finding the solutions to the problems, we must also throw some light on the most common problems residential furnaces face. Below are some of the most common issues which the furnaces usually face. Their solutions will also be discussed.



Heating problem - Check circuit breaker 

If the furnace is not performing the basic function of producing heat, you might consider checking the Thermostat. If the thermostat is already set to heating then the probable reason for non-functioning is that some fuse is broken. Check if the circuit breaker controlling the Furnace is in the ON position. If this does not help, the problem is in the wiring of the circuit.

Compromised Air Flow - Try cleaning the filters

In case the furnace is working but not producing enough heat and there’s a compromised air flow, ensure that the air filter is clean. This is one of the most essential components of the HVAC system and requires regular maintenance and cleaning. Dirty filters compromise the air flow and burden the system. So if a compromised air flow is felt, make sure you check the air filters and if found dirty, immediately clean/replace them.

Ignition problem - Replace damaged ignitor 

The ignition problem results in decreasing the capacity of the furnace to produce heat. This
problem is common in gas furnaces operating with a thermocouple. For instant resolution of the
issue, inspect the ignitor. In case it is damaged, change it. If this DIY doesn't help, consider calling a professional for help since this portion of the Furnace requires some professionalism and technical knowledge and excessive DIY can result in creating further issues.

Continuous cycling problem - Check filter and Thermostat

A frequently turning ON and OFF Furnace is a sign of trouble. It can be caused by a dirty and old air filter that needs replacement or an improperly programmed Thermostat. Check both.

Noisy blower - Oil it! 

A slight operational noise is normal for a Furnace and how does a normal noise sounds like, you know very well. When an unusual noise from the blower unit is felt, it is most possibly because of the friction in the components. Oil the blower fan for a quick resolve.

Dampness around the unit 

The Furnace unit may develop moisture and eventually dampness around it. Water leaks from the Humidifier connected to the ductwork may as well result in dampness and consequently short-circuiting. To resolve this, dry the unit and its surroundings properly by first switching the system off. If the problem persists, call a professional.

What are the Furnace problems that you frequently face and what are the DIY's you use to resolve them? 

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Indoor Pool Humidity - Problems and Fixes

Have a pool at home? You're fortunate. You can enjoy swimming anytime for as long as you want. But with fortune comes some misfortunes too and the misfortune associated with indoor pools is that their maintenance is not only crucial but also difficult. And the lack of maintenance leads to serious problems ranging from health issues to interior damage issues. We'll discuss today why and how you need to be overly cautious when you have a pool at home and to keep the right settings for it to remain a joy and not become a problem.



Pool and high humidity - The consequences

When there's a water body inside of your home, it will be evaporating water all the time. And the water droplets will rise and spread in the home increasing the indoor humidity. The rise in humidity will lead to;
- Discomfort for homeowners
- Damage to the interior or exterior of the house; wallpapers parching, dampness, spots on walls, damaging of decorations items etc
- Production and rapid spread of mould and spores
- High humidity when raises the moisture level in the air, also raises the chances of the spread of viruses and bacteria

Factors causing pool humidity

It is not the presence of the pool that creates problems, rather the improper presence and the lack of maintenance that does. For example; check out the following causes; 

- Improper building material
When a house is constructed with a design to add a pool in it, it is crucial to use the most compatible type of building material needed. In the case of houses with pools, the material suggested is the material that could prevent condensation within the walls of the house since this would lead to the production of mould and other problems.

- Not installing an adequate ventilation system
It is crucial to install an adequate ventilation system in all homes but particularly in homes where there are pools. The proper ventilation will let the moist air out before it could harm the indoor or causes discomfort for the homeowners.

- Dehumidification - Much needed Air Conditioners do offer dehumidification but there are two things to note;
- You need to set your Air Conditioner to the settings where it could offer the best dehumidification; Fan at ''Auto''
- Your AC may not be sufficient to dehumidify the indoor air because the humidity the pool creates is too much. In this case, you are required to install a separate dehumidifier.


How to maintain a fair balance in humidity with a pool at home?

The relative humidity level should in no case exceed 60%. You should strive to maintain humidity level somewhere between 40%-60%. With a pool at home, it is difficult but the following steps can help;

- Set the pool temperature two degrees lower than the air temperature. This will decrease evaporation which will consequently decrease the moisture
- Consider installing a good quality dehumidifier preferably a whole home dehumidifier
- Make sure you have a proper ventilation system and that the humidity is not causing problems in the indoor which may not be visible to you at the moment

In the end, a bonus for you; so how would you know about the level of humidity in your indoor? If you have a Smart Thermostat installed, congratulations. It can give you the reading of the indoor humidity level and can also track the data for you. In case you're still running an old model, installing a Smart Thermostat could be the right investment for you to continue enjoying all joys without having to make any compromise on your comfort.

Check out our range of Thermostats HERE and request a quote anytime at 1-855-245-4328

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A DIY guide for fixing iced up Air Conditioner


Whether you're using a Central Air Conditioner, a Split system or a window unit, AC icing up is a scenario that you must have faced if you're already using Air Conditioner for several years. Although this is a frustrating situation and often puts a homeowner in the worries of whether it is time for him to replace his system, it is not a difficult to fix the problem and neither a one that necessarily requires a professional's help. In this blog, we are going to help you find you why your Air Conditioner freezes up and what you can do when that happens. 

Insufficient Air Flow

Air Conditioners work on the principle of throwing inner heat out on the evaporator coil and then bringing the cool air back. But when the Air Conditioner fails to evacuate indoor heat, the evaporator coil doesn't get sufficient heat to keep going with normal operation and instead freezes up as a protest. Well yeah! 

Low refrigerant = Icing up

The refrigerant used in Air Conditioners is usually Freon which is a gas. During operation as the gas expands, the cooling effect is produced. When there's only a limited amount of gas left and the pressure/temperature settings are the same, the gas expands to create an overly cool temperature. As a result, all the moisture/dampness around the evaporator coil turns into ice causing icing.

Temperature changes

Many times, the reason behind AC icing up is the change in the outdoor temperatures. As the temperature drops, the pressure in the unit drops which result in icing up.

Mechanical failures and icing up

Among the most common reasons comes the mechanical failure issues. Blocked air filters, twisted or torn refrigerant lines, improper blower fan operation, all of these have the tendency to cause icing up of the AC unit.

Solutions for fixing iced up AC unit

Let's now talk about some solution to fixing the iced up Air Conditioner unit.

- Clogged Filters as we mentioned above become the reason for causing icing. Check the AC's air filter for blockage. Consider using good quality filters that are also compatible with the system you have and change them at least after 3 months.

- The evaporator coil needs to have a smooth air flow through it. As it gets dirty, there's a blockage of airflow and this results in icing. Make sure the evaporator coils are clean

- A dirty ductwork restricts the air flow and causes the same consequences as the blocked filter does. The air flow restricts and therefore, icing is caused at the outdoor unit

Final word

Keeping appliances maintained is a good way to keep unexpected sudden repairs at par. Nonetheless, HVAC situations like AC icing up, insufficient cooling, AC shut off and similar issues are common and can be faced even by people who do keep their appliances maintained so it is good to keep yourself equipped with the necessary knowledge of their why's and how's.
We hope this blog helped you learn the basics of AC iced up scenario.

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Here's why you need to shift to energy efficient appliances

So you must have heard so much about energy-efficient appliances and if you happen to be a very simple person, must have wondered what exactly energy efficient appliances are? This blog is dedicated to explaining what energy efficient appliances are and what are their short-term as well as long-term effects. Let's move ahead!

Energy efficient appliances - what are they and how do they work?

Let's take the answer from the name itself. Energy efficient appliances are basically efficient at the use of energy. They are just the opposite of those classical appliances that were like ghosts when it comes to energy consumption; you had to put in a lot of oil, a lot of gas to get only a small amount of output. So far, science tells us that we can't really convert the input into 100% output. But it is possible to reach close to 100%. And these energy efficient appliances have made it possible. They use; less energy and give better output.  There are different types of energy efficient appliances; some that use renewable energy resources; hydal, solar etc and others whose mechanism is designed in such a way in order to use only a minimum amount of energy to produce high results.

Should I convert to energy efficient appliances?

Since we are particularly talking about HVAC appliances, you can check your appliances; there's a logo of ''Energy Star '' or a mention that the appliance is energy efficient which means it is smart in its use of energy. But if your Furnace, Air Conditioner or any other such appliance is older than a decade or more, it may not be energy efficient or the efficiency could be insignificant compared with the efficiency offered by the Energy Efficient products of today; so we would highly recommend you to make a shift for better. Here are the benefits that you can avail by installing energy efficient products;

- The foremost - energy saving

All our home comfort appliances need some kind of energy, be it; electricity, gas or oil. And this energy doesn't come for free. So you have to make sure you make a limited use of this energy. Limiting the use of appliances can only be made to a certain extent so it is using the appliances with energy-saving mechanisms that ensure less use of energy. Shift to energy efficient appliances because; they help save energy.

- The fascinating - dollar saving

Who likes spending so many dollars just on energy bills? We all are scared of heavy energy bills so here's a refuge from them. Shifting to energy efficient appliances results in; money saving. Less energy is consumed and the utility company sends you precise bills. Freedom!

- The important - Sustainable development

The Earth on which we live has limited resources. And if they are consumed with the similar speed with which they have been consumed in the past decades, estimates say that we shall finish our major energy resources in the coming decades. There's therefore, a need to conserve the energy to think of sustainable development. Energy efficient appliances help control the use. Also, the less use of energy results in less residual gases that saves the environment.

Conclusion

Energy efficient appliances are the need of time. Not only do they help limit the energy consumption by the appliances, lower the energy bills and elongate the appliance lifespan, they also help save the environment and the planet on the whole. So yes, if you haven't yet shifted to energy-efficient products, make a wise shift now!

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5 HVAC things to be grateful this Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving eve for Canadians is around the clock. While most people pass this day just as other days considering it of no prime importance, there are others that start reflecting on the importance of the day and the reasons they should be grateful for well before the Thanksgiving day. Whatever the history of Thanksgiving is, what needs to be understood is that it is now celebrated as a day to reflect upon the blessings and be grateful for them. Research says that grateful people are the happiest people, not because they have everything but because they realise the importance of whatever they have. And this Thanksgiving, we want to divert your attention towards the HVAC blessings that you have but have never really felt thankful for them. Let's begin.


happy-thanksgiving.jpg
- Have an Air Conditioner? Be grateful!
Surveys say that more than 90% of Americans have Air Conditioned homes. But how many do you think would actually have been grateful for the marvel of air conditioning that they enjoy when it is scorching hot outside and they are there in their cosy homes? It is your time to add the blessing of Air Conditioning among the things you'll exclusively be grateful for this Thanksgiving.


- Breathing Clean Air? Be grateful!
While the industrial revolution has provided us with numerous time-saving and life-saving devices, the wrongs that it has done are also numerous, environmental pollution being one. It is becoming harder and harder to be able to breathe fresh and healthy air, particularly when living in the metropolis. Although making the outdoor air clean is difficult, the indoor air can be cleaned using the Air Cleaners. There are a large number of Canadian homeowners that are suffering from different airborne diseases primarily because they couldn't get clean enough air or couldn't afford to have a system for cleaning the air they'd breathed. If you've an Air Cleaner installed at home, reflect on the blessing and be as grateful as you can for being able to breathe fresh and healthy air anytime you want.
Added to the list? Let's move on.


- Have an insulated home? Be grateful!
While we are talking about all things HVAC, let us not forget home insulation. Ever pondered that the Insulation you are able to afford keeps you warm in Winters and cool in the Summers and when so many people out there have to bear the severity of weathers, all seasons for you are alike due to the comfort the home insulation provides. Take this blessing to the blessing counter and don't forget to be grateful this Thanksgiving for having a home that is also well insulated.  
- Own a high-efficiency Furnace? Be grateful!
Fall will be followed by Winter and before you start using your Residential Furnace for warming you up, let us have some moments to contemplate how would spending Winters of Canada be without any heating element? Unbearable indeed! And some people do have to face the intensity of the Winter by either burning wood or covering themselves with old clothes. If you've a high-efficiency Furnace that never lets your home go out of the zone of comfort, you're among those that are enjoying a wonderful blessing. This Thanksgiving, don't forget to be grateful for your Furnace.


- Enjoy hot water in Winters? Be grateful!
Thanksgiving is celebrated in October in Canada. That is the time when cold breezes begin to blow and the feels of the upcoming Winter get intense. Since we are discussing the home comfort heating and cooling things you should count on this Thanksgiving, we are focusing on the ones that you'll be reminded of in the season following the Fall. While you probably never have pondered over how big the blessing of hot water in Winters is, imagine yourself opening your faucet one coldest morning of Winter and finding blood freezing cold water coming out of it. Extend this unease further imagining you don’t get hot water anyway for several days. Thinking of the unavailability of these things gives a strong shiver down the spine but unfortunately, we are the ones that are not grateful for the blessing even when they are there.

So not only on the Thanksgiving eve, every time your faucet opens up with warm water, let your heart thank for the blessing.
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving day. May you celebrate and learn to be grateful always.

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Cleaning thick Evaporator and Condenser Coils

As long as the home comfort appliances are kept with care and regular maintenance, not only do they complete their life expectancy but often times exceed it. Contrary to that, lack of maintenance and following wrong HVAC practices lead an appliance to costly repairs and early replacements. Talking in particular about Air Conditioners, it has been observed that a common reason of Air Conditioner break down or early replacement has a root in systems' evaporator and condenser coils. The coils need to be cleaned properly for the system to function properly but since most people choose to perform DIY cleaning, loopholes are left and the dirt and debris that penetrates even more into the system (due to wrong cleaning) begins to hinder the system's efficiency. Many times when people think their system needs replacement all it needs is a comprehensive cleaning. Today, let's help you explore some myths about compressor and evaporator coil cleaning and teach you the right cleaning methodology.
Real-Coils1.jpg
Here's how homeowners clean Evaporator and Condenser coils:
Before we explain ''HOW TO DO'', let's explore, ''HOW YOU DO'' the cleaning. A majority of homeowners use a high-pressure water and rinse the coils only briefly. The coils from the outside are rinsed and an all clean appearance make homeowners believe they're done with cleaning. The truth, however, is; the pressure of water does rinse some of the outside dust but pushes the rest of the dirt, sludge and the build ups of moulds etc towards inside. The dirt and debris that is inside the coils never find a chance to get rinsed with pressured water. As a result, the coils might appear clean, they are not. All these sludge then hinder the efficiency of the system. Now you know why your cleaning never improved your system's efficiency?

The right way to clean Evaporator and Condenser Coils:   
So we've just discovered why is using a high water pressure, not a good choice. What then is a good combination for cleaning the delicate and hard to reach parts of Air Conditioner's evaporator and condenser coils? The right formula is;
Low Pressure
and
High Volume
Unlike the high-pressure water, the low-pressure high volume water reaches the coil bed and the consistently pouring water loosen the build ups which then, along with the water flow move easily from the other side. The high-pressure water has low volume and even the high pressure after passing through the upper layers of coils lowers. So there neither remains a high pressure nor a high volume and this is why this commonly followed formula never cleans the coils properly. Also, if some cleaner is used and a high-pressure water fails to clean the cleaners effects, the residue will only contribute to causing rust and dints.     
High Pressure might damage the coils
There are numerous instances when homeowners use an excessively high pressure which results in damaging the coil bed's fins badly that are extremely delicate. There are high chances that in an effort to clean the coils, you could totally damage them and would have to replace the coils or the system altogether. And this is particularly true for thin evaporator coils. The recommended way for both thick and thin evaporator coils is by using the same formulae as mentioned above. If you've a hard time choosing what pressure and volume range should you be using exactly, consider consulting an HVAC professional.
At Cosmopolitan Mechanical Services Inc. we offer maintenance as well as repair services for Air Conditioners and a variety of other home comfort heating and cooling appliances. If you'd like to have your coils professionally cleaned, contact us at 1-855-245-4328               

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Top 5 Air Conditioner Problems and their solutions

Air Conditioners are our dearest friends when it comes to Summers in the indoors but we all know, many times it is our friends that put us in troubled water. And Air Conditioners fall true on this attribute of a friend and friendship. While they help comfort us, they also do not forget to create discomfort by posing issues that result in high energy bills, system inefficiency, system noises and others. HVAC technicians get extremely busy during the peak Summer season and it is difficult to have them at the earliest possible (which is what we do want) when there's an HVAC emergency. It is, therefore, always good to keep oneself ready for such situations forehand so as to be able to cope with them performing the right methods.
Here we're discussing 5 common Air Conditioner problems and their solutions.


AC Problems

1. Air Conditioner Short Cycles

The cycles goes like;
- Air Conditioner begins cooling the home
- It cools the home according to the temperature set on Thermostat
- It trips
- It begins cooling again as the temperature rises again
Short Cycling refers to your system tripping without providing the desired cooling.
Solution
The cause of this problem lies in a malfunctioning Thermostat, poor wiring or a poorly calibrated Thermostat. Resolve the issue by resetting the Thermostat, making sure its batteries and wiring are fine and changing the location if it is installed at an improper location. If thermostat troubleshooting doesn't work, try consulting a professional to have the system diagnosed asap since short cycling results in super fatty bills and may also cause a system break down.

2. Air Conditioner Thermostat (Touch Screen) not working

There are several benefits that the Touch Screen Thermostats have over the conventional Thermostats but nonetheless, everything comes with its own pros and cons. Some people have a real hard time with touch screens. The most commonly reported problem is that the touch screen stops working partially or completely.
Solution
Before jumping on to the solution, know the reason. The screen stops working either due to a damaged or dirty screen, battery problems or because of a software problem. While the software problem requires a professional help, try out other solutions as it is not necessary that your Thermostat has a software problem. Change batteries and clean the screen using a soft fibre cloth. Touch now! Did that work? Congratulation if yes. If no, call a professional to fix the software issue.
We install, maintain, repair, replace and relocate all types of Thermostats in GTA, Ontario. Call us anytime 1-855-245-4328   
 

3. Compressor Noises

Here's another most commonly reported problem; a noisy compressor that often times raises safety concerns among homeowners. A compressor can begin to make a rattling, banging, hissing, humming, rumbling or other sounds depending on different reasons. A hissing sound is mainly due to a refrigerant leak, a banging sound due to something stuck in the compressor, a rattling sounds due to loose parts and other similar or different noises due to high or low air pressure and faulty Thermostat.
Solution
There's no harm in quickly checking your system for all the above-mentioned possibilities but do not try anything the consequences of which you're not aware of. For example, homeowners sometimes try to remove a stuck object from the compressor and end up damaging the fan blades. We recommend calling a professional for things related to the compressor that are beyond your fixing ability.

4. AC fails to cool

Short-cycling is one thing and cooling failure another. Sometimes, the system despite being turned on for hours fail to cool the home.
Solution
The causes of cooling failure are; dirty filter (huf! you already knew that), duct leaks, non-sealed home or faulty home insulation. Begin the DIY by closing all doors and windows properly, cleaning the filters and checking the ductwork for any leaks. If the problem persists, choose to rely on a professional.
Note:
Please note that sometimes, Air Conditioners fail to cool properly because of the unusually hot temperature. If it is a hot day and your system otherwise works fine, there's nothing to worry about. The system will resume efficiency as the outdoor temperature drops a little.

5. AC needs continuous repairs

Homeowners are often found complaining about their Air Conditioning systems that are sick throughout the Summer. Here they have a repair and there another repair need arises.    
Solution
It is sad to discuss but the truth remains the truth whatsoever. Among other reasons, the commonly known real reason of why your system is needing continuous repairs is your own service technician. Service companies often use the strategy of leaving loopholes in systems so that they're called again and this is how they break your bank. Consider changing your HVAC technician if you're doubtful about the service.
However, this is not the only possible reason. Other reasons include;
- Old system
- Lack of maintenance
- Improper unit size
Fix the problem by replacing your unit if it is already older than 15 years. Else, become regular about HVAC maintenance.

24/7 HVAC customer care

Did that article help? Are you struggling with Air Conditioner problems and need help?
Connect with us, anytime; 1-855-245-4328

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Is your Air Conditioner making whistling sounds?

It's a hot Summer afternoon and you're sleeping in your comfy bedroom with an Air Conditioner providing soothing cooling. Suddenly, it starts acting odd and here what it does;
A whistling sound begins to come from the vents. Oh nooo!!!
Since you and no one likes his dreams to be disrupted by whistling sounds, whatever you ought to do has to be done urgently. But before you set up the venture of fixing the problem, explore the causes of such sounds:

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Reasons behind AC making whistling sounds:
The major reason behind your whistling Air Conditioner is insufficient air flow through the return vents. And what causes the reduction in the return air flow? It could be due to:
  • Closed dampers
  • Blocked Return Vents
  • Several Closed Doors
and most importantly;
  • Dirty Air Filters

All these issues can be fixed right away with little effort and without calling a professional. But before we move on to the solutions, let us learn how does a low airflow cause whistling sound.

Here's how your vents whistle
Remember the whistling you learned in childhood? For that, you had to make a very small opening with your lips and blow air outwardly with high velocity. And the sound came out was of?  A WHISTLE! The same happens with your Air Conditioner. Your blower is operating all the time circulating air throughout the home. When there's insufficient air provided, the blower blows it with the same velocity and pressure. As this high pressurised air reaches the supply vents openings, it makes the whistling sound.

Fix your whistling Air Conditioner, do this
Close Dampers - Fix it
Dampers are valves that are located in your ductwork and are used to prevent air flow from reaching certain parts of the home. Locate your damper near the supply vents and make sure it is aligned sufficiently to allow proper air flow.

Blocked Return Vents - Fix it
What most homeowners do in order to not compromise on their interior is that they hide the return vents using furniture, carpets or other such blockages. This is such a grave mistake that it can affect the whole HVAC system. Insufficient air reaches the system and consequently, the system gets disturbed. If your system is making whistling sounds and you know you've done this mistake too, fix it by removing the blockages on the return air ducts.

Several Closed Doors - Fix it
Why that privacy? You can keep the doors open man! When the airflow comes from the supply vents of the main hallway or stairway and wants to spread in the entire home, it has to sneak from the small gaps under the doors in order to enter the rooms where the doors are closed. And what happens next? Insufficient air reaches there. As a consequence, insufficient air goes back from the return vents that then causes the whistling sound. To solve this, keep the doors open unless it's a super secret plan you're making inside. (Or at least keep them half opened)

Dirty Filters - Fix it
Although the most common reason behind the whistling sounds is dirty filters, we've mentioned it on the very last. And it is no additional information since you already know how important it is to clean the filters regularly. Clean them right away if the last time you cleaned them is the time you don't even remember.

Bottom Line
With home comfort heating and cooling appliances, you'll have to face issues every now and then. Although not all of them can be solved as DIY’s, there are many that can be. The above mentioned four solutions are what you can try yourself the next time your AC makes freakish noises.

Did that help? If yes, do let us know.

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The right way of using Programmable Thermostats

You can expect your energy bills to be more than expected if you do not use a Thermostat with your heating and cooling home comfort appliances. Did you know that Thermostats help save up to 15% on energy bills by turning the appliances off and on or tuning them to high or low temperature as per the outside temperature suggest? The past one decade has been quite interesting. HVAC technologies have seen a massive change and advancement as the zoning system, carbon monoxide detectors and Smart Thermostats have been introduced. Life has become much more easier than before. With special reference to the Programmable Thermostats, homeowners that use this technology in the right way are able to save up to 15% or more on the energy bills. Although the users of such Thermostats across Canada are in thousands, it is unfortunate that not even half of them know the proper use of Programmable/Smart Thermostats and thus despite installing the device, continue to have fatty energy bills. Here we mention ways to program the Thermostat accurately in order to enjoy its full benefits.

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Thermostat - Which one to choose?
Depending upon your individual needs, the type of thermostat you should buy would be different. Different type of Programmable Thermostats offers different programming options. Check out the options below.:

7-day Programming Thermostat
Families with abrupt routines can find this Thermostat to be the best since it allows different programming for every single day of the week. Usually, the price range of such Thermostats is between $55-$125. If you're looking for different scheduling for every single day, go for 7-day programming Thermostat.

5-1-1 Programming Thermostat
As the name indicates, 5 is for 5 days (working days) of the week while 1-1 is for Saturday and Sunday. Such type of Thermostats allow one programming for the working days while two different programming options for Saturdays and Sundays. If your routine remains the same throughout the week but changes on the weekends, it is suitable for you to choose this one. Average price range for this Thermostats is $35-$78

5-2 Programming Thermostat
This type of Thermostat allows one programming schedule for the entire week while a different programming for Saturdays and Sundays

1 Week Programming
1-week Programming Thermostats offer one schedule for the entire week option. Although they are less likely to save the same amount of energy but nonetheless help save. Also, how efficient does a Thermostat perform depends on how it is being used. Remember installing a Thermostat is not enough. You should know the proper use as well.

Here's how to program a Programmable Thermostat the right way
The Thermostats are usually set on an auto setting keeping in consideration the routine of a typical family but you never know what kind of typical family. So it is important to adjust it according to your own schedules and needs. A Programmable Thermostat usually has the following options:

  • Wake Time
  • Sleep Time
  • Leave Time
  • Return Time

Department of energy suggests the following settings in order to make the most savings:
Save Energy in Winters like this:  
For the Winter month,
  • Program the Thermostat at 68 degrees F for the time when you're home and are awake.
  • Lower this temperature of 68 degrees by 10-15 degrees when you're asleep or away from house.

Save Energy In Summers like this
The suggestions for Summers in order to save energy go as:
  • When you're at home, program the Thermostat at 78 degrees F
  • Program the Air Conditioner to completely shut off when you're out of the house
  • Program your Thermostat to turn off the AC 20-30 minutes before you leave home
  • Go reverse, set the Thermostat to turn the Air Conditioning on 20-30 minutes before you return home
  • Set the Thermostat to reduce the cooling almost an hour before you go to sleep
  • Set the Thermostat to increase cooling half an hour before you wake up

It is a good practice to play around with your Thermostat, changing setting for a whole week and figure out which one works best for you. But never forget to program your Thermostat after installing it.

Happy venture with Programmable Thermostats

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