The Answers to Your Top HVAC Concerns

Are you tired of searching the internet endlessly for answers to your HVAC questions and concerns? We’ve got you covered with this list of common questions about all HVAC issues, from repair issues to new system installation concerns.

The Answers To Your Top HVAC Questions

• What can I do to my AC system to improve air quality in my house?

There are many ways you can modify air conditioning and heating units to improve indoor air quality, including:

• • Upgrading your home air filter.
  • Incorporating a UV light air purifier.
  • Neutralizing contaminants throughout your home with an Air Scrubber.

• How can I tell when it’s time to replace my AC system?

Air conditioners last 10-15 years on average. While simple, inexpensive issues may warrant waiting on replacement, costly problems, and especially those involving coolant leaks, warrant timely replacement. Such advances have been made in cooling technology, newer systems offer substantial monthly energy savings and a rapid return on investment.

• How can investing in a new HVAC system save me money?

If your system was installed before 2005, you could see as much as 50% savings on cooling with a new unit. Choosing a system 16 SEER or higher variable-speed system increases savings. Ask your technicians about available rebates and tax incentives to offset costs.

• Why does SEER rating matter?

SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures the ratio of cooling output during a typical cooling season and divides it by the energy used in watt-hours. The higher the rating, the more efficient a system and the less energy it uses. Put simply, higher SEER = lower cooling bills and improved comfort.

• How often should I schedule routine maintenance for my system?

It’s best to have your system service twice a year, in the spring and fall, To avoid the need for unnecessary HVAC repair expenses and the need for emergency service in weather extremes.

• What maintenance can I do myself?

Safely DIY maintenance tasks include:

• • Monthly air filter check (and replacement if dirty)
  • Clearing the space 2-3 feet around and 5 feet above your outdoor unit

• Why should I upgrade to a smart thermostat?

Air conditioner repair professionals suggest upgrading to a smart thermostat to save money on cooling expenses. Smart thermostats allow you to control settings from anywhere, adjusting the thermostat when your home is unoccupied. They also provide maintenance alerts, filter change reminders, and suggestions for additional savings. Learn more about the benefits of smart thermostats.

• How can I manage hot and cold spots in my home?

You can reduce hot and cold spots in your home by choosing a system with a variable-speed or two-stage blower, zoning your home, or by integrating a ductless system for added comfort in problem areas.

 

Still have questions? We have answers. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule a free service estimate today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/the-answers-to-your-top-hvac-concerns/

The "Must-Do's" While Hiring a HVAC Company

If you want to safeguard your investment, there’s a lot more to hiring an HVAC service company than picking the name of a nearby contractor off the internet. A little research and asking the right questions before committing to hiring an AC technician is crucial. Your heating and cooling system is the most expensive appliance in your home and, with proper care, can last you more than a decade, so you want to make sure you get the most out of yours. How can you be sure you make the best possible decision when hiring someone for HVAC system repair or new system installation?

Investigate The Reputation Of Local HVAC Contractors

Talk to your friends and family, asking about area contractors they’ve used and their experiences. Before choosing air conditioning or heating companies, make sure they’re:

• Licensed and insured in your state
• OSHA, NATE, ACCA, and PAACCA certified
• BBB accredited
• Have stellar online reviews from many customers
• Hold a reputation for providing quality products and services
• Offer maintenance plans,
• Offer maintenance plans, which indicates a company that intends to be with you for the long haul
• Warranty the products and services they provide
• Have been in business long enough to trust they’ll be around to warrant those products and services

Get A Free Quote

Schedule estimates from multiple contractors so you can compare your options. Reputable companies will not pressure you into an immediate sale. Ask lots of questions about why particular services cost what they do and what to expect during and after service or hvac system installation so there are no unwelcome surprises.

Research What To Expect Before AC Service Or Installation

Information is your best defense. Guard yourself against surprises by researching solutions to your current AC repair problems, emergency HVAC service costs, or learning about the steps in new system selection and installation.

Relax And Let A Trusted Local Heating And Cooling Pro Work For You

At H & H, we understand how stressful the process of finding a reputable HVAC company can be. Our team goes above and beyond to take the pressure off, making sure our customers never experience any surprises that make them nervous or uncomfortable. You can trust us always to communicate clearly what to expect, ensuring a smooth process. After you’ve done all your research and selected a trustworthy contractor, sit back and relax and let your HVAC professional work for you, resting assured you’ve hired the right person for the job.

Need system repairs or a quote on a new system? H & H Heating & Air Conditioning has you covered, providing A+ BBB-rated services and hundreds of 5-star customer reviews. Contact us to schedule a trustworthy, obligation-free estimate today.

 

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/the-must-dos-while-hiring-a-hvac-company/

AC Problems Caused by Dirty Filters and How to Deal With Them

Your home air filter does more than impact the air quality in your home. Air filters play an essential role in the performance of heating and cooling units, impacting energy efficiency and system lifespan. This small, inexpensive component of your system impacts so much, it’s essential to clean or change it regularly to avoid system repair headaches. What can happen if you neglect air filter maintenance?

8 Common AC Problems Caused by Dirty Air Filters

1. Frozen Coils

A clean filter facilitates the free flow of air through your system. When clogged with dust and debris, airflow is restricted, causing the system’s internal temperature to drop, eventually causing the coils to ice. When we get calls from our customers to fix AC unit because their AC is blowing warm air, this scenario is a prime suspect.

2. Uneven Heating And Cooling

If your system is struggling, but your coils are not quite at the point of freezing, you may notice uneven temperatures throughout your home.

3. Constant Cycling Off And On

Before you call for HVAC repair services because your system is short cycling – constantly turning off and on – check to see if your air filter is dirty. Letting this problem continue unaddressed could leave you with a pretty hefty energy bill.

4. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Dust, pollen, mold, dander, germs, and debris that a clogged air filter can no longer filter out will be recirculated back into your home. This is especially dangerous for people with allergies and respiratory conditions.

5. Dirty Ductwork

Allergens from a dirty air filter can buildup, potentially leading to mold growth in your ductwork over time.

6. Frequent Repairs

Dust and dirt can also get into internal system components, causing wear and tear, resulting in the need for costly emergency ac repair down the road. In fact, a dirty air filter is the most common culprit found by technicians attending repair calls.

7. Shortened System Life

The added wear and tear from dirty filters will shorten your system lifespan, leading to the need for early replacement. The nominal cost and inconvenience of replacing an AC filter pales in comparison to the thousands it will cost for a new system.

8. High Energy Bills

Ignoring the need to change your air filter due to the cost will cost you more in the long run. A dirty filter forces your system to run longer and work harder to cool your home, inflating your energy bill.

Prevent Painful Problems With Routine AC Filter Changes

Checking your filter just once a month and replacing it if it’s dirty can save you some serious repair issues. Make it part of your HVAC regular maintenance.

Has a dirty air filter taken a toll on your heating and cooling system? Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning for fast, affordable repairs today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/ac-problems-caused-by-dirty-filters-and-how-to-deal-with-them/

Multi-Zone Mini-Split Systems. How do They work

Are you considering a new ductless air conditioning system? Mini-split units are becoming increasingly popular, popping up in homes nationwide. They are ideal for homes short on space, requiring no ductwork, and offering quieter, more efficient operation than central HVAC systems. A multi-zone system is best when replacing these traditional systems, allowing you to heat and cool your entire home.

How Do Multi-Zone Ductless Systems Work?

Ductless systems work like heat pumps, transferring heat where it’s needed (into or out of your home) depending on the season. They operate using an outdoor unit, which is connected to one or more indoor units. No ductwork is necessary. Instead, refrigerant lines run from interior units to the one outdoors. Small, three-inch holes allow for refrigerant lines to run between components. Like heat pump systems, they offer highly efficient heating and cooling year-round, with no heat loss. They work for both air conditioner replacement or heating system replacement, providing superior performance and energy savings.

Unlike single zone ductless systems, which only condition a single room or area of your home like an addition, basement, or garage, a multi-zone system mini-split can manage several different areas within a home. A single outdoor compressor unit can connect with several indoor units in multi-zone system design, providing heating and coloring to multiple areas or zones in your home. Unlike traditional central systems, this setup offers zoned temperature control, allowing you to adjust temperatures in each area of your home independently.

Why Choose A Zoned Ductless System?

• Customized temperature control

Say goodbye to arguments over thermostat settings. Zoned ductless systems let you customize temperature settings in your home to each family member’s personal preferences, varying temperatures by zone. Mini-split systems operate using a thermostat and remote control, or with advanced systems, using a mobile device, offering smart operation from any location.

• Performance and savings

Ductless systems use less energy than central-style HVAC systems at full capacity. Top-of-the-line systems offer substantially higher EER, HSPF, and SEER ratings – up to 30 SEER. There is no heat loss through ductwork – one of the most common reasons for performance loss in central systems, reducing your annual energy costs by 30-40% or more. These design advantages deliver a rapid return-on-investment, providing more energy-efficient heating and cooling.

• Space-saving, versatile system design

Air handling equipment, common in split central system designs, and ductwork are not needed with ductless systems. This smaller, less intrusive design is perfect for small and historic homes, saving precious space and reducing construction costs.

Unsure whether a single or multi-zone system is best for your application? Our experienced air conditioner service and repair technicians can assist you in choosing the best ductless configuration to meet your needs.

Start saving and improve comfort with a zoned mini-split system. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning for a trustworthy, obligation-free quote on a new ductless system today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/multi-zone-mini-split-systems-how-do-they-work/

6 Reasons to Hire a Trusted Heating Company for Your Heater Maintenance

It’s great to regularly change your home air filter and occasionally clean the drain lines on your home heating system, but some system maintenance projects are best left to the pros. Why should you hire a trusted heating repair company to service your system?

Licensed, Qualified Heating Repair Professionals

When your system needs service and maintenance, you don’t want a home handyman or fly-by-night contractor. Your home heating unit is the most expensive appliance in your home. Protect it with the help of trained, certified HVAC technicians. At H & H, we can handle everything from routine cleaning and maintenance to in-depth repairs and new system sizing and installation. With our professional services, you’ll enjoy efficient, reliable performance, reduced energy bills, and long system life.

Commitment To Excellence/Guarantee

Our expertly trained staff has been providing heating and air conditioning service, repair, and installation to the Delaware Valley since 1985. We are committed to providing fast, friendly repair, maintenance, and installation services. Our family-owned company has earned hundreds of 5-star reviews, an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and Angie’s List awards. The quality of our work is guaranteed.

Lasting Repairs

Our professional technicians can get it back up and operational quickly when your system needs service, performing an accurate diagnosis and lasting repairs. With routine care from our service and maintenance pros, you can ensure you’ll get the most out of your home heating system, ensuring optimal performance and extending its lifespan for many years to come.

Safe Operation

With our professional services, you can rest assured your heating system will be there for you, performing safely and reliably on winter’s coldest nights. Our expertly trained technicians have an eye for detail, quickly identifying and addressing operational issues that could put your home and family at risk.

Affordable Service – Even “After Hours”

We provide 24/7 service at no additional cost, ensuring you have access to affordable repairs – even outside of “normal” 9 to 5 operating hours. When unexpected repairs occur, our fully stocked “warehouses on wheels” ensure the rapid restoration of your system, 24 hours night or day. We offer trustworthy, no-obligation estimates for all services, so you can be sure your cost of services includes the same, affordably priced quote given to you at the start of repairs.

Expert Insight

When it’s time to replace your aging heater or air conditioner, we’ll help you find the right new system for your home and budget. We are knowledgeable in all aspects of heating and cooling. Our experienced technicians have the technical expertise to design the perfect system for your home, choosing from trusted furnaces, boilers, heat pump systems, and the latest in high-efficiency Mitsubishi ductless air conditioning and heating system technology.

Schedule service or get a quote on a new installation from H & H Heating & Air Conditioning today. We offer “no contact” virtual estimates and paperwork. Contact us to receive a complimentary quote over the phone, by video conference, email, or text now.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/6-reasons-to-hire-a-trusted-heating-company-for-your-heater-maintenance/

Rust in Your Furnace? Here's what you need to know

Your furnace doesn’t use water to operate like a boiler, and there aren’t any water leaks in the area – so why is it rusty? A rusting furnace can seem strange, but it could point to a larger problem. It’s one of the things an experienced, professional heating repair company will look for when performing maintenance and repairs. If you see rust on your furnace, you shouldn’t run it until it has undergone a professional inspection and earned a clean bill of health.

What Rust On Your Furnace Could Mean

• Surface rust
  While external rust from a nearby moisture source may not be a major problem, it could indicate serious internal issues. Even if you only see rust on the surface of your furnace, avoid using your system until safe operation is verified by an experienced HVAC professional.
• Rust on the heat exchanger
  Rust on the heat exchanger, an internal system component, often goes unseen by the typical homeowner. This is why annual preventative furnace maintenance is crucial. When spots of rust appear on the heat exchanger, it points to the potential risk of the heat exchanger cracking. A rusted, cracked heat exchanger should be replaced or repaired  immediately to avoid the possibility of toxic, potentially deadly combustion gases like carbon monoxide from infiltrating into your home.
• Clogged or blocked condensate line or flue
  When exhaust and drain lines are blocked, the small amount of fluid present as part of gas combustion are not properly transported away, creating a greater likelihood of moisture exposure and corrosion within the system (such as the aforementioned heat exchanger).
• Old age
  Long years of use can cause corrosion from extensive exposure to combustion, making old systems more likely to showcase rust on the heat exchanger. In furnaces more than 15 years old, furnace replacement is a wiser investment than repair. These systems may offer only 60-80% efficiency, compared to newer Energy Star systems boasting performance near 97%, ensuring a rapid return-on-investment and a more comfortable home climate.

How Does Rust Occur If There’s No Water In The System?

There is some water vapor present in the combustion gas collected in your furnace’s heat exchanger. As these gases cool, water vapor can develop. In high-efficiency condensing furnaces, this water vapor moves to a second heat exchanger, where it is condensed, releasing more heat. This is how the metal of the heat exchanger is exposed to water, causing rusting. However, with proper operation, this moisture should be vented out via the condensate line and flue.

Rust on your furnace? Schedule emergency service and repair right away. We offer 24/7 service at no additional cost to you, so you can rest assured of safe furnace operation. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule service and maintenance now.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/rust-in-your-furnace-heres-what-you-need-to-know/

Upgrading Your Thermostat May Help with Energy Efficiency and Savings. Learn How

Are you looking for ways to lower your electric bill this winter? Save money and improve the performance of your heating and air conditioning system with a new home thermostat. Upgrading the thermostat on your home heating unit to a new programmable smart thermostat model is an easy and inexpensive way to improve your system’s efficiency and save on your monthly heating costs.

How Do Smart Thermostats Help You Save?

Smart thermostat technology offers savings of 10-15 % on average. That’s no small amount since heating and air conditioning accounts for around 50% of the average homeowner’s utility bill. Smart thermostats offer these savings by:

• Adjust thermostat settings when your home is unoccupied
  Smart thermostats monitor when you are away from home, automatically adjusting settings for savings when you are away and ensuring a comfortable environment when you return.
• Offering season-specific settings
  Programming your HVAC system to a cooler setting in the winter (and a warmer setting in the summer) delivers savings. You could save up to 3% on heating and cooling costs for every degree that you adjust the setting.
• Monitoring the performance of your HVAC system
  Many smart thermostat models monitor your heater’s usage patterns and performance in real-time, offering suggestions that could improve savings and lengthen system life.

Save On Installation With Utility Rebates And Incentives

With the help of your local utility company, you could upgrade to a smart thermostat at little or no cost to you. Most utility companies across the US offer incentives of $50-100 for a new Energy Star smart thermostat. The small amount you’ll pay out of pocket for purchase and installation could be quickly recouped in as little as a couple of months.

Learn More About The Latest Smart Thermostat Options

Today’s smart thermostats are nothing like their predecessors. They are easy to set up and use – even for those upgrading from dial-up models. Talk to your local HVAC service pro for assistance finding the right smart thermostat model for your system and family’s needs, such as:

• NEST Learning Thermostat
  This smart Wi-Fi thermostat is a homeowner favorite. It features a sleek, circular, cutting-edge design and built-in motion sensors to learn your routine and preferences, helping you find the sweet spot between comfort and savings.
• Honeywell Lyric
  The budget-friendly Honeywell Lyric is easy to use. This Wi-Fi thermostat offers simple operation with no need for added sensors and no sophisticated learning modes.

Take The Leap With Smart Thermostat Technology

Smart thermostats are operable from your mobile device from anywhere using a simple Wi-Fi connection. Adjust settings, check performance, inquire about upcoming maintenance, and more with the quick touch of a button. Most models integrate with other home automation products as well, including Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and more.

Enjoy the performance and savings of a new thermostat. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more about adding a smart Wi-Fi thermostat to your home today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/upgrading-your-thermostat-may-help-with-energy-efficiency-and-savings-learn-how/