6 Toxic HVAC Smells and Their Impact On Health

What’s that terrible smell? Oh no! It’s my HVAC system. When your AC system stinks, it’s never a good sign. Smells permeating your home from your air conditioner are usually a sign of a serious underlying problem. And some of them are toxic. Is an air conditioner replacement in order? How worried should you be? Let’s take a closer look at 6 toxic HVAC smells and their impact on your health.

1. Burning Smell

A burning, electrical odor or gunpowder-like smell could indicate electrical issues, fried circuit board, compressor, or fan motor problem. Prolonged exposure to these fumes is not healthy. And letting your system continue to run after you notice it could lead to some costly repairs. If you notice an electrical odor, turn off your unit and schedule emergency AC repair right away.

2. Vehicle Exhaust-Like Odor

Your system can emit a vehicle exhaust like odor even if it doesn’t run on gas. Breathing in particulates from burning oil and other fluids from essential system components can be hazardous to your health, reducing your blood oxygen levels and leading to an array of health issues.

3. Skunky Stink Or Dead Animal Smell 

A skunk-like smell permeating your home could actually be from a skunk infiltrating your ductwork. Ditto for decaying animals. These situations can aggravate respiratory conditions and cause nausea. Not sure if the smell is skunky? It could be a gas leak, which is more dangerous and even worse for your health. (See below.)

4. Rotten Eggs/Sulfur-Like Stench 

If your HVAC system smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, a natural gas leak is likely the cause. This odor is added to gas to alert people of dangerous leaks. Open the windows of your home and vacate immediately. Never stay in a home with a potential gas leak. Breathing in high levels of gas fumes can reduce blood oxygen levels, leading to loss of consciousness and death. Gas is also highly flammable and explosive. Go to a neighbor’s house and contact the gas company ASAP.

5. Musty Or Moldy Smell

If you smell a musty, moldy odor when your system is running, a drainage problem or a mold buildup within ductwork or other system components may be to blame. While this issue is not detrimental to your system, it is for your health, making it essential to improve indoor air quality fast. Breathing in mold and mildew aggravates respiratory conditions and can increase the risk of respiratory infections.

6. Chemical, Paint-Like Odor

There are a number of fluids used within your air conditioning system that can cause chemical odors. If an unknown, paint-like odor is emanating from your system, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Call your local AC company for rapid assessment and repair.

Don’t suffer through the stench. Breathe easier with help from H & H Heating & Air Conditioning. If you’re afraid you might be experiencing any of the toxic AC smells above, contact our experienced heating and air contractors for emergency service today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/6-toxic-hvac-smells-and-their-impact-on-health/

Steps for Inspection Before You Turn on Your Air Conditioner

Is your air conditioner ready for heavy summer use? Pre-season prep is essential before moderate spring weather transitions to hot summer days to make sure you don’t end up hot around the collar waiting on emergency air conditioning service. Get your system ready for heavy use in the days ahead, ensuring comfort all season long.

Steps For Inspection Before Turning On Your Air Conditioner 

1. Clean the (outdoor) condenser unit.

Clear the area surrounding all sides of your condenser unit of debris and vegetation. Anything that blocks airflow surrounding your system can negatively impact performance and efficiency. Anything that makes its way into internal components can also damage your system.

2. Verify the condition of the refrigerant line insulation.

Any lines not completely insulated must be repaired by professional air conditioning companies.

3. Inspect wiring.

Look for signs of damaged or disconnected wiring, addressing problem areas before turning on your air conditioner.

4. Check the power switch.

Start at the main power switch outside your home, making sure your air conditioning system is turned on.

5. Check the circuit breakers.

Circuit breakers should be in the ON position.

6. Inspect drain lines.

Make sure your drain lines aren’t dirty or clogged. If things aren’t looking so good, contact your local air conditioning service pro to have the lines professionally cleaned.

7. Examine ductwork.

Look for cracks and disconnections in exposed ductwork throughout your home that could cause loss of airflow and cooling efficiency. Have these professionally repaired now to ensure comfort and energy-efficient performance throughout the summer season.

8. Change your home air filter.

Starting with a new air filter at the start of every season ensures optimal performance and indoor air quality. Don’t forget to change your filter regularly throughout the season, at least every three months – and more often if you have pets.

9. Check air vents.

Make sure the air vents throughout your home are  open, clean, cobweb-free, and unobstructed. Vacuum off dust, hair, and debris and remove furnishings and draperies blocking airflow through supply and return registers.

10. Consider a thermostat upgrade.

If your thermostat looks like it’s been around since the dark ages, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. Smart programmable thermostats are extremely affordable and can save you significant money annually on cooling costs. Many of today’s models do the work for you, keeping your home more comfortable while improving performance by adjusting temperature settings for when your home is not in use.

Monitor Your System After Turning It On

After adjusting the temperature to your desired setting and turning your air conditioner on at the thermostat:

• Go outside and verify the fan in the condensing unit is running
• Listen for strange sounds. Check for the exhaust of warm air from your home.
• Let the system run for 10-15 minutes, verifying your system is cooling your home.

Set the stage for a cool, comfortable summer with help from your local AC company. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule annual air conditioner maintenance today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/steps-for-inspection-before-you-turn-on-your-air-conditioner/

Common Issues with AC Compressors

Your air compressor is like the heart of your AC unit, circulating the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange through the system. Our skilled ac repair contractors know it is arguably the most important – and definitely the most expensive – component of your home air conditioner. Without it, your system cannot cool your home and keep you comfortable.

How Your AC Compressor Works

Powered by a motor, your AC compressor raises the temperature and pressure of gaseous refrigerant in the system, increasing it to move heat from the evaporator coil inside your home to the outdoor condenser coil. As the condenser cools down the hot refrigerant, turning the refrigerant vapor into a liquid, heat is released. The process is repeated, exchanging heat until your home reaches the desired temperature.

Common Causes Of AC Compressor Problems

Your AC compressor is an expensive component of your system – but not all causes of compressor issues require costly fixes. That’s why scheduling fast home ac repair service for potential compressor issues is critical. What common AC compressor issues should you watch out for?

1. Dirty coils

Our HVAC system technicians frequently respond to calls for dirty coils. When filth builds up on this system component, the system can’t release enough heat. Over time, increased heat and pressure in the system lead to compressor failure.

2. Too much refrigerant

If an unqualified HVAC contractor fills your system with too much refrigerant (or the wrong refrigerant), permanent damage to your AC compressor could result.

3. Refrigerant leaks

When system components wear out and leaks cause refrigerant levels to drop, your system has to work harder to push freon through the system, eventually wearing out the compressor.

4. Improper oil lubricant levels

As with refrigerant, when too much or not enough oil is used, compressor damage could result.

5. Improperly sized suction lines

An inexperienced technician installing improperly sized suction lines can cause premature compressor failure.

6. Blocked suction lines

Blocked suction lines will limit the cooling capacity of your air conditioner. If left unchecked, the increase in pressure and temperature could lead to premature compressor failure.

7. Electrical issues

Electrical issues like acid buildup, damaged fuses, and worn wiring can cause permanent compressor damage. However, these issues are easily thwarted with a routine annual air conditioning system inspection.

Don’t Ignore These Signs Of AC Compressor Failure

• HVAC system blows warm air
• Compressor doesn’t turn on/clutch not moving
• Vibration at system startup
• Strange or loud noises from the outdoor unit
• Circuit breaker frequently trips when AC is running (compressor drawing excess current)

Don’t wait to address signs of AC compressor failure. Fixing the underlying problem is far less costly than AC compressor or system replacement.

Are you looking for local HVAC companies to determine if your compressor is failing you? Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule fast, affordable service today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/common-issues-with-ac-compressors/

Freon Leaks need Quick Attention

Our air conditioning contractors know not all service problems are created equal. Among the worst issues your system can suffer: A freon leak. The refrigerant, or freon, in your system is what makes cooling your home possible. It’s such an essential part of a well-functioning AC system, the longer you wait to address a shortage of freon, the greater the risk of serious damage to your cooling unit. Prompt service is essential when you detect a freon leak. But you have to realize you have a leak in order to have your system serviced, and homeowners frequently overlook the warning signs.

What Does Freon Do?

Your system is filled with freon as part of your AC installation service. The evaporation and condensation process of the refrigerant is what allows your system to provide cooling. The refrigerant removes heat from the air in the house by absorbing it via the evaporator coil (in your indoor unit). It is then sent to the condenser coil, where it is condensed to release that heat outside. The process is repeated as many times as necessary to reach the temperature setting on your thermostat. If your AC unit is leaking refrigerant, it’s going to struggle to cool your home.

Signs Your AC System Is Leaking Freon

If you notice any of the symptoms, it’s time for immediate AC repair and service:

• Hissing sounds from the outdoor unit
• Frozen evaporator coils
• Decreased cooling performance
• Short cycling (system turns off and on repeatedly)
• Higher electric bills

Refrigerant Leaks Cause Big Problems

Running your system on too little freon means you’re paying a lot for less cooling performance. Worse,  running your air conditioner when it is low on freon can cause irreversible compressor damage and result in the need for AC system replacement.

What Causes Freon Leaks?

When our emergency air conditioning service technicians address house calls for freon leaks, age and worn-out system components are the top problems. Everything wears out over time – and your AC system has lots of moving parts that can wear, corrode, or fail, resulting in a leak. A trained HVAC technician can quickly detect the source of the problem, checking common locations like valves, joints, refrigerant lines, coils, accumulators, flare connections, capillary tubes, and other likely components.

Solutions For Refrigerant Leaks

In many cases, your local HVAC pro will identify the source of the leak for repairs. But in some situations, your system may be so old and inefficient, or the part so expensive, upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient air conditioner may make more financial sense.

Keep your system in peak condition with help from an HVAC company that has your back. H & H Heating & Air Conditioning never charges extra for emergency HVAC service – we offer the same affordable rates no matter when your system goes down. If you suspect a leaking system – don’t wait. Contact us to schedule service today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/freon-leaks-need-quick-attention/

Your HVAC can be Aging You. Combat AC Effects on Your Skin

Your air conditioner is your favorite appliance in the summer, combatting the blistering heat with a blast of cool air. Despite how great all that cool air makes you feel, sometimes the effects of AC aren’t entirely wonderful. Air conditioning can have a negative impact on your skin. What skin problems can your cooling system create?

Air Conditioning Causes Dry Skin

Air conditioning contractors know removing humidity from the air is one of the things your cooling system does to improve comfort in your home. But this same effect can also rob your skin of moisture, making it dry. If this dryness persists, eventually it will reach your skin’s inner layers, resulting in tight, flaky, itchy dry skin and chapped, peeling lips.

Dry, Cool Air Inhibits Oil Production

Your AC system keeps you cool and comfortable, preventing you from sweating. This not only diminishes your body’s ability to eliminate toxins but reduces the production and speeds the evaporation of oils on your skin, leading it to look dehydrated, dull, and unhealthy.

AC Can Aggravate Skin Disorders

The drying effects of air conditioning can aggravate or worsen skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.

Air Conditioning Can Result In Premature Aging

If you fail to replace the moisture lost through your skin due to the drying effects of air conditioning, it can make your skin more prone to wrinkling and creasing. Over time it could lead to premature aging as moisture loss weakens the elastic properties of your skin.

How To Protect Your Skin Without Turning Off The AC

Just the thought of aging as a result of using your air conditioner probably has you itching to call for emergency air conditioning service intervention. Fortunately, there are many simple things you can do to protect your skin from the negative impacts of AC so you can still enjoy using your system through summer’s scorching temperatures:

• Keep your body hydrated, drinking 8+ glasses of water each day.
• Regularly apply moisturizer to rehydrate and protect your skin.
• Take regular breaks from cold, air-conditioned spaces.
• Install a humidifier to improve air quality and keep the air in your home from becoming too dry.

Do You Need A Humidifier? Your Home Is Suffering Like Your Skin

Humidity is best at levels between 40-60%. When humidity levels in your home or too low, your home will also show the symptoms of dry air. Gaps and cracks will appear in your furnishings, flooring, and structural materials, as they do in your skin, and static electricity will be a frequent annoyance.

Fight the negative impacts of your home environment and stay comfortable with help from your local air conditioning service. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to improve indoor air quality and comfort in your home today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/your-hvac-can-be-aging-you-combat-ac-effects-on-your-skin/

AC Unit Freezing up in Summer? Yes it happens.

It’s a common occurrence: Your AC system isn’t cooling your home, blowing warm air, or doing nothing at all. You scope out the situation, only to find your coils or refrigerant lines encased in ice. It’s pushing 100 degrees outside – how is it possible it’s frozen? An AC unit freezing up in the summer is a common issue. Fortunately, you can restore it to proper operation by getting to the heart of what caused the malfunction.

Why Does My AC Freeze Up In The Summer?

Airflow, system pressure, and temperature play major roles in the performance of your air conditioner. When issues occur that disrupt this balance, key components can freeze. Our air conditioning contractors see the following top culprits for this:

• Insufficient airflow

Clogged air filter

Dirty home air filters don’t allow sufficient airflow for your system to perform effectively. This is the most common reason for HVAC system repair – and it’s preventable. We recommend checking your air filter first. If it’s caked with dust and dirt, replace it – especially if it’s been more than 3 months since you last changed it. Turn your system off until it defrosts. Then your system should return to normal operation.

Fan or blower motor malfunction

Constant airflow is essential to prevent humidity from settling (and freezing) on coils. When electrical or mechanical issues lead to fan or blower malfunction, the lack of airflow can quickly lead to a frozen AC unit. To identify and address this situation, you’ll need the help of a pro.

Vent or ductwork blockages

Closing or blocking supply or return ducts with furniture or blockages in ducts can reduce airflow and cause a frozen unit. Clear all return ducts and close no more than 2-3 supply ducts, ensuring free flow of air.

• Low refrigerant pressure

Low refrigerant levels impact pressure in the system, causing coil temperatures to plummet and nearby water vapor to freeze, forming frost and eventually ice. Finding the leak and restoring refrigerant to proper levels is essential to permanently addressing this issue. As with fan/blower malfunction, professional assistance is necessary to manage refrigerant issues. Keep in mind, however, for some older systems wearing in dated components may make eliminating leaks difficult. Due to the cost of refrigerant, HVAC system replacement may be the most cost-effective solution.

• Clogged drain lines

Clogged drain lines cause water to back up, creating a high moisture environment that makes your evaporator coil more susceptible to freezing. A wet/dry vac can help you quickly dislodge algae and debris causing clogs. Once your system thaws, it should be back in action.

• Cool summer evenings

Less than optimal operating temperatures can lead to frozen components. When evenings are cooler than expected (near or below 60 degrees), there may not be enough heat to absorb during the cooling cycle.

Frozen AC system leaving you all hot and bothered? Get it repaired in a flash. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule air conditioning repair and maintenance today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/ac-unit-freezing-up-in-summer-yes-it-happens/

What Is An Air Scrubber And How Does It Work?

What is an Air Scrubber, and how does it work? An Air Scrubber can improve indoor air quality throughout your entire home. This whole-house air purification system is installed in the ductwork of your home HVAC systems. It features next-generation technology that can purify every cubic inch of air pumped through your home.

How Does The Air Scrubber Work?

The Air Scrubber by Aerus neutralizes contaminants instantly. It provides an ideal solution for sick building syndrome. Unlike traditional air filtration methods, which require particles to pass through a medium to eliminate pollutants, it operates proactively, removing contaminants from the air as well as those on surfaces throughout your home. Patented Active Pure technology, originally developed for use on the International Space Station, destroys 99% of airborne and surface pollutants, providing clean, fresh air with no need to open windows.

The Air Scrubber system uses light waves and a catalytic process, producing “scrubber” ions and hydroperoxides that neutralize contaminants. The power of microscopic oxygen and water molecules in the air transforms into powerful oxidizers that attack and destroy pollutants in the air and on surfaces throughout your home. This purification power reaches every crack and crevice, offering “no-touch” cleaning never seen before.

What Contaminants Can The Air Scrubber Remove?

Double-blind studies show the Air Scrubber can improve indoor air quality and reduce surface contamination, effectively removing:

• Airborne particulates, including:
  • Dust
  • Dander
  • Pollen
• Airborne microbials including:
  • DNA Viruses
    • Adenovirus
    • Smallpox
    • HPV
    • Herpes virus
    • Hepatitis B
    • Phi-Xq47 bacteriophage
    • And more
  • RNA Viruses
    • Influenza
    • Common cold
    • SARS-CoV-2
    • Hepatitis C and E
    • Ebola
    • Rabies
    • Polio
    • West Nile
    • MS2 baceriophage
    • And more
  • Gram Positive Bacteria
    • Listeria spp.
    • Streptococcus spp.
    • Microococcus spp.
    • Staph epidermidis
    • And more
  • Gram Negative Bacteria
    • E Coli
    • Pseudomonas
    • Salmonella
    • Haemophilus
    • Enterobacter
    • And more
  • Bacterial Spores
    • Bacillus subtilis
    • Clostridium difficile
    • Sporolactobacillus dextrus
  • Fungal Spores & Mold
    • Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold)
    • Aspergillus versicolor
    • Cladosporium herbarum
    • Aspergillus niger
    • Candida auris
• Surface contaminants
  • H1N1 (Swine Flu)
  • H5N8 (Bird Flu)
  • Norovirus
  • Hepatitis A
  • E Coli
  • Staph aureus (MRSA)
  • Streptococcus spp. (Strep)
  • Bacillus spp.
  • Pseudomonas spp.
  • Listeria
  • Candida albicans
  • Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold)
  • And more
• Gases and odors like VOCs from:
  • Cleaning solutions
  • Cooking fumes
  • Pet odors
  • And more

How Is The Air Scrubber Installed?

Our air conditioning contractors can quickly and easily install the Air Scrubber into your ductwork. It works alongside your HVAC system, helping you remove airborne and surface contaminants throughout your home. Like our other home comfort and indoor air quality products, it is backed by our industry-renowned 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Keep the air and surfaces in your home continuously clean 24 hours a day. Protect your home from top to bottom with an Air Scrubber. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more about this cutting-edge in-duct home air purification system today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/what-is-an-air-scrubber-and-how-does-it-work/