Buying A New HVAC? Here Are Some Smart Shopping Tips

Purchasing a new heating and cooling unit is a big investment – one of the largest ones you’ll make in your home. Gathering basic knowledge on terminology, system styles, and brands, and pricing will ensure you get the most out of your HVAC purchase.

Know Your AC System Types

Central Air Conditioner (typically start at $3,500)

Central air conditioners are typically installed as part of a “split system,” paired with a heat source such as a furnace or boiler. Central air units use refrigerant, compressors, and coils to cool air, distributing it via ductwork through your home with the help of a fan/blower system.

Air Source Heat Pump (typically start at $5,500)

This variation on a central air conditioner can provide both heating and cooling. They cost a bit more upfront, but are extremely energy-efficient, quickly recouping this extra expense. In the case of air source heat pumps, they work by transferring heat, moving it outside in the summer, and inside in the winter. Like central AC systems, they also use refrigerant, compressors, and coils, and distribute air via ductwork with the help of a fan/blower.

Geothermal Heat Pump (typically start at $25,000)

Geothermal heat pumps work much the same way as air source heat pumps but rely on the constant temperatures within the ground. They are super-efficient, using 25-50% less energy than conventional systems. Like air source heat pumps, ground-source heat pumps provide both air and heat, and can also be used to heat water and operate radiant heat flooring systems.

Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump (typically start at $3,000)

Mini-split heat pumps also work by shuttling heat. They are easier to install than central and heat pump systems but cost more upfront. However, they are extremely efficient, making them an increasingly popular choice. Mitsubishi ductless air conditioners feature multiple indoor units, which distribute air within the home, connected to a compressor located outdoors. Because they require no ducts and components connect via only small refrigerant lines, they are a great choice for small/historic homes with little space for these structures. They also work well for cooling garages and new home additions and are an ideal solution for those who want independent control of room temperature across multiple areas of the home.

Talk To A Knowledgeable Contractor

Your local air conditioning company will be able to help you determine which of the units above is best for your home size, area climate, budget, and comfort needs. Once you decide on the type of system you want for your home, you’ll want to compare air conditioner brands and get estimates on installation costs. At H & H, we’ve been providing trusted A+ BBB and Angie’s List Super Service Award-winning services to Delaware, Chester, and Montgomery County residents for over 30 years.

Learn more about our 100% no lemon, money-back guarantee, available purchase incentives, and amazing warranties on industry-leading HVAC equipment. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning for a trustworthy, competitive quote today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/buying-a-new-hvac-here-are-some-smart-shopping-tips/

Guide To Staying Safe While Calling Your HVAC Technician

If your air conditioner is broken and you find yourself weighing the pros and cons of suffering through the summer with air conditioning against potential coronavirus exposure, you’re not alone. The need for HVAC service is stressful enough without the added complication of potential ramifications of system service during a global health pandemic. Fortunately, it is possible to get AC work done safely during the pandemic, even with a service technician inside your home.

Tips For COVID-Safe HVAC Service

• Only work with companies with a pandemic safety plan in place to ensure your safety.
• If you’ve been sick in the last 14 days, the Department of Health (DOH) recommends rescheduling your appointment. We are happy to assist you with a later appointment to stop the potential spread of COVID 19.
• If you’re healthy and need air conditioning service or repair, the DOH recommends maintaining the typical 6-foot social distancing recommendations.
• Do not touch your face with unwashed hands, and wash your hands well with warm soap and water at least 20 seconds before/after touching any potentially contaminated surfaces.

We’ve Instituted A Number Of Safety Measures To Ensure Pandemic Protection 

To keep our customers and employees safe we’ve instituted a number of new procedures, including:

• Monitoring our team members’ health daily, taking regular temperature checks, and practicing social distancing.
• Contacting our customers prior to performing heating and air conditioning service to ensure everyone in the household has not been sick within the last 14 days.
• Scheduling appointments only in households where members have been symptom-free for two weeks after exposure or signs of illness.
• Wearing masks, safety glasses, and new shoe covers and gloves in each house.
• Routinely utilizing hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes on mobile devices used in the field.
• Specialized chemicals used for the disinfection of items such as tools, gauges, repair parts, within our service and parts trucks.
• Continual monitoring of the pandemic and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure adherence to the latest guidelines.

We Excel At “No Contact” Communication

To meet the needs of our concerned customers, we now offer the option of Virtual HVAC Estimates using video conferencing software. We can also complete any necessary paperwork digitally, sending estimates via email/text and using electronic signatures on contracts.

We’re Here For You Through The Pandemic

We will continue to provide 24/7 HVAC repair at no additional cost, so you can access affordable heating and air conditioning repairs, even those that occur outside ‘normal’ 9 to 5 business hours. We’ve been ensuring our customers’ homes are safe, healthy, and comfortable for over 35 years, and will continue to provide trusted service throughout the pandemic. We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure health and safety as we navigate the evolving COVID crisis. Our highest priority is the safety of your family and our team.

Schedule COVID-safe service. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/guide-to-staying-safe-while-calling-your-hvac-technician/

What could those noises coming from your air conditioner mean? Today’s high-efficiency cooling units are exceptionally quiet, featuring sound dampening technology and variable speed compressors that keep noise levels low (below 55 decibels). Noises emitted by your system during operation should be unnoticeable, so if you hear strange sounds, they shouldn’t be ignored.

Why Is My AC Making Noise?

These sounds could indicate your system needs to be repaired or replaced.

• Clicking
  The clicking on and off of system components at start-up and shutdown can be a normal part of operation – but these noised should not be constant. If you hear repeated clicking, you may have a failing thermostat or other electronic control. Because there are many electrical components in your system, it is essential to manage clicking noises quickly to avoid bigger issues down the road.
• Buzzing
  Buzzing can be caused by many issues, including loose or out of balance parts (blower, fan, copper lines), or the near failure of components. Buzzing can also be a sign of neglected simple maintenance needs, such as home air filter replacement, coil cleaning, or inadequate refrigerant levels.
• Humming
  Humming usually isn’t serious unless it’s a compressor that hums and refuses to start. In most cases, it points to electrical issues (loose wiring).
• Banging
  Banging noises often indicate a loose or broken part in the compressor, such as a pin, rod, valves, piston, or crankshaft. In the case of compressor issues, it could mean replacement. Banging can also be a sign your indoor blower is unbalanced.
• Clanking
  Clanking also typically indicates a loose part or component. It can also indicate out of balance components, such as blower or fan blades out of alignment coming in contact with other parts. These issues often lead to bigger problems when ignored. Once parts inside the unit have failed, or the compressor has become loose, system replacement may be necessary.
• Rattling
  Rattling, chattering sounds can indicate loose parts (fan, electrical components, casing screws/bolts), or indicate your system is deteriorating and may soon require replacement. Like buzzing, rattling may also result from twigs clogging the system, the need for a coil cleaning, or air filter replacement.
• Squealing
  A quick squeal on startup can be normal for some systems, occurring from day one.  Squealing, squeaks, and rattles with a rapid onset, heard through the duct system, however, could indicate fan or blower motor malfunctions.
• Screaming
  High pitched screaming or whistling noises indicate a potentially dangerous situation. Turn off your system immediately. Contact your local air conditioning service company ASAP. Screaming noises may indicate dangerously high pressure in the compressor. Your system may shut itself off as a safeguard.

Don’t Ignore Strange AC Sounds

Ignoring the sounds your system is making could result in minor issues turning into major repair costs. Oftentimes, a simple tune-up or minor maintenance will remedy issues and prevent repair costs from spiraling.

Is your system crying for help? Get it the attention it needs fast. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/why-is-my-ac-making-noise/

Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality In The Summer

Relaxing in your cool, air conditioned home in the heat of summer makes you feel much better than sweating it out in the sun. However, during this time of the year, the air inside homes can be more polluted than the air outdoors, making it far from a healthful environment. How can you improve the air quality in your home in the summer so you can kick-back and relax in confidence with your trusty Bryant air conditioner?

Eliminate Chemicals, Dust, & Allergens with Routine Cleaning

Regular vacuuming and mopping reduce concentrations of chemicals and allergens in your home, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, lead, fire retardant chemicals, and more. HEPA filter vacuums excel at the task, preventing contaminants from getting blown back into the air. After vacuuming, a simple mopping with plain water eliminates most remaining trace particles.

Go Shoeless

Many contaminants are tracked into your home via shoes. Leave them outside to keep them off the floors in your home.

Upgrade Your Air Filter

Upgrade to home air filters that remove a greater percentage of pollutants and allergens from the air, including pollen, pet dander, dust, dirt, and smoke that can be dangerous to those with respiratory issues. When upgrading to HEPA filters, be sure to install them with the help of your local HVAC pro, as the tighter weave of these filters can strain your system when necessary system adjustments are not made.

Maintain Healthy Humidity Levels

Keeping humidity levels in the 30-50% range keeps moisture-loving allergens such as mold and dust mites under control. Adding a whole house dehumidifier is an easy way to accomplish this. Set it and forget it, easily controlling humidity levels throughout your home via this HVAC system add-on.

Kill Bacteria & Germs

Eliminate airborne bacteria, viruses, mold, and other microorganisms with a UV light air purifier.

Leave The Cigarettes Outside

Cigarette smokes contain over 4,000 chemicals. Leaving cigarettes and smoke outside is perhaps the single most important thing you can do to improve the indoor air quality in your home.

Swap Synthetics For Natural Cleaning & Fragrance Alternatives

The synthetic fragrances in lemon polish, piney cleaners, and laundry products may make you think of cleanliness, but these products emit dozens of dangerous chemicals and VOCs into the air that are detrimental to your health. Opt for naturally safe and effective cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice instead, or choose fragrance free or naturally scented products.

Go Green

Open up your windows occasionally, letting in fresh air and releasing toxic chemicals in your home. Bring a bit of nature indoors, decorating your home with ferns, aloe, and spider plants, which naturally clean the air, absorbing chemical pollutants.

Improve the air quality in your home. Breathe easy with the help of H & H Heating & Air Conditioning today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/ways-to-improve-indoor-air-quality-in-the-summer/

Why Does My Pilot Light Keep Going Out?

Are you tired of relighting the pilot light on one of your gas appliances? If your appliances are performing properly, this should not be a frequent issue.

How Your Pilot Light Works

Gas-fueled heating units like furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces hold a small flame that remains lit, serving as an ignition source. This tiny flame is used to ignite the gas that fuels these appliances so that they can provide heat.

Why It Keeps Going Out

Pilot lights may occasionally go out due to issues with drafts or poor ventilation, but this is rare. If you have to relight your pilot light frequently, this points to mechanical issues – specifically, the thermocouple on the appliance.

The thermocouple prevents gas from leaking into your home when the pilot light goes out. If faulty, a thermocouple can snuff out your pilot light. In some cases it can even prevent a pilot light from igniting.

What To Do When Your Pilot Light Goes Out

It is possible to relight a pilot yourself. It is not difficult. However, safety is key. If you think you’re experiencing issues with a faulty thermocouple, it’s best to contact a furnace repair company for help. In addition, you should never attempt to light a pilot light if you smell gas. Any gas odor indicates a leak. For your safety, you should vacate your home immediately and contact your gas company.

How To Relight A Standing Pilot Light

Below is the basic procedure for relighting a pilot light, however, the owner’s manual for your appliance will offer additional insight.

1. Adjust the settings on your appliance so that it will attempt to turn on to produce heat. For furnaces, for instance, set them to heat mode to a temperature of 80 F.
2. Locate the pilot valve on the appliance. It will typically be in a box-shaped device near the burners, featuring a knob marked: ON, PILOT, OFF.
3. Turn the knob OFF and wait 3 minutes for gas to dissipate.
4. Turn the knob to PILOT.
5. Using a long fireplace match or grill lighter, relight the pilot while depressing the knob/holding the reset button. Hold the button/knob for 30 seconds to get the thermocouple hot enough to open the main gas valve.
6. Turn the knob to ON. If burners fail to ignite, repeat the process, holding the reset knob/button longer.
7. Adjust temperature when finished.

I Can’t Find The Pilot Light On My Water Heater

Your water heater maintenance company knows some models have an access cover that must be lifted to gain access to the pilot light, which is typically located beneath the tank. The assistance of your owner’s manual and a flashlight can make finding the pilot on your water heater much easier.

Keep the flame alive. Address pilot light issues, ensuring the safety of your combustion appliances with the help of & H Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us to schedule service and maintenance today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/why-does-my-pilot-light-keep-going-out/

Why Does My AC Smell Like Dirty Socks?

Until they experience it, most homeowners remain ignorant of “Dirty Sock Syndrome,” a phenomenon with which seasoned air conditioning service & repair technicians are well aware. What causes the moldy, stale smell of neglected laundry to permeate your house via your air conditioning system? And how can you eliminate it fast?

Mold & Bacteria In The System Are The Cause Of Dirty Sock Syndrome

The smell of Dirty Sock Syndrome is a direct result of decaying organic material leading to mold, mildew, and bacteria buildup in your cooling unit. Typically the specific component at fault is your unit’s evaporator coil. As dust particles buildup due to inadequate filtration or poor air filter maintenance, moisture in the system that accumulates after continued use creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive.

How Can You Be Sure You Have Dirty Sock Syndrome?

This odor can smell different to different people. However, if you notice a foul, moldy odor when you run your system that causes your entire house to smell like dirty gym socks, Dirty Sock Syndrome may be the cause. To verify, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioner isn’t suffering from other potential problems that could be causing it to give off a foul odor. Other causes of odors emanating from HVAC components include:

• Wet, dirty air filters.
• Full, possibly corroded, drainage pans.
• Blocked drainage lines.

Can Dirty Sock Syndrome Cause Health Issues?

While a foul smell in your home is not fun, Dirty Sock Syndrome is typically not dangerous unless you or a family member has a compromised immune system, asthma, or allergies. Even if you don’t have health issues, you don’t want to leave Dirty Sock Syndrome unaddressed, as the mold and bacteria in your system can rapidly grow, causing respiratory issues and eye irritation over time. The smell can also make people feel sick, even if they’re physically fine. For these reasons, HVAC pros recommend addressing Dirty Sock Syndrome quickly.

Tips For Addressing & Avoiding Dirty Sock Syndrome

If you think your system is suffering Dirty Sock Syndrome, heating and air conditioning service immediately, including a new air filter, coil cleaning, and drainage system inspection. To avoid a repeat of the situation and keep mold, mildew, and bacteria at bay, be proactive:

• Upgrade to higher quality home air filters and change them every 1-3 months.
• Prevent mold and bacteria from building up in your evaporator coil with a UV air purifier.
• Watch for full drain pans and blocked drain lines, which give mold, mildew, and bacteria a place to thrive.

Don’t suffer through Dirty Sock Syndrome. Freshen up your home, safeguard your health, and avoid embarrassment with the help of H & H Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer 24/7 service at no additional charge to you to help you get back to normal fast. Schedule cleaning and maintenance and eliminate foul smells in your system today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/why-does-my-ac-smell-like-dirty-socks/

Air Conditioner Stopped Working. Need Help?

I need help, my air conditioner stopped working! Don’t worry, even the best cooling units have issues from time to time. If your system is not working properly, we have the tips you need to troubleshoot your system.

Common Air Conditioner Problems

• Air conditioner not blowing cold air.
  Check your thermostat setting first. If this is not the problem, see if your air filter is clogged with dirt and debris. This will block airflow and cause the system’s evaporator coils to freeze. (Note: It can take up to 24 hours for an evaporator coil to thaw.)
• Air conditioner struggling to cool home.
  First, make sure all your vents are open. If this is not the case, you could low refrigerant resulting from a leak. You may also have an improperly sized system, too large/small for your home.
• Air conditioning system leaking water.
  If your system is leaking water…
  • Inside
    Turn off your system immediately to prevent water damage to your home. If you’re a skilled DIYer, you can try to clear the clog in your condensate drain line with a wet/dry vac. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you could have a broken condensate pump or rusted drain line, which requires professional heating and cooling repair services.
  • Outside
    A small amount of leakage is normal. Excess leakage could point to a dirty filter, low refrigerant, blocked drain pipe, or broken condensate pan.
  • When “OFF”
    This is caused when the issues discussed above continue unaddressed. Leave your system off until you’ve rectified the problem to prevent damage.
• Air conditioner constantly runs, without cycling off.
  A dirty home air filter, or old/improperly sized system, can cause this problem. As can a stuck fan relay or thermostat short/malfunction.
• Air conditioner won’t turn on.
  Oftentimes, your system won’t turn on because someone in your house adjusted the settings without your knowledge. If this is not the issue, your system may need serious repairs or replacement.
• Air conditioner fan is not working.
  • Inside fan
    Has the breaker for your AC system been tripped? If not, check for a dirty air filter. Allow the ice on your coil to melt, then try operating your system again.
  • Outside fan
    Try resetting the circuit breaker for the system.  If this doesn’t get your fan going, turn your system off to avoid overheating your system and burning out your compressor. Contact your local air conditioning contractors immediately for repairs. You could have a burned out start capacitor or stuck fan motor.

Still no luck getting your system back up and operational? No worries. We’ve got you covered, offering fast, affordable emergency HVAC service without the inflated costs. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule air conditioner repair services today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/air-conditioner-stopped-working-need-help/