CALL NOW FOR FREE ESTIMATES ON REPLACEMENTS! 

The best way to determine the perfect HVAC unit size is to have a Manual J calculation done for your house. The Manual J calculation is the most precise measurement available because it considers factors like:

Square footage

Climate zone

Ductwork

Number and style of windows

Natural shade or sunlight

Quality and amount of insulation

Number of people using the space

Heat-generating appliances

Many utility companies offer a free energy audit that will provide you with your Manual J calculation — just ask. You can also hire an energy auditor or HVAC dealer to do your audit.

With a Manual J report in hand, you’ll know exactly how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) of heating and cooling you need for your home.

You can also get a rough estimate by looking at the square footage of your house. This chart is a general guideline that covers tiny houses to average size homes.

No matter which method you choose, the goal is to estimate the number of BTUs you need to comfortably cool or heat your entire home. Once you’ve got that, it’s time to shop around and make your HVAC pick.

Now it’s time to work with an HVAC contractor to learn more about the heating and cooling products they offer. Sometimes the dealer may not have your exact BTU size — but don’t worry. If your BTU requirement is between sizes, simply go with the bigger unit. For example, the Manual J calculation may say you need 25,000 BTUs for cooling. But your HVAC dealer only has air conditioners that handle 24,000 or 30,000 BTUs. Choose the 30,000 BTU unit to make sure your comfort needs are covered.

Having a little extra power isn’t bad. This will make sure your system can handle the load on days with extremely high or low temperatures. If you get a unit that’s too small, you may regret it on the hottest and coldest days of the year.

Just beware of getting too big of a unit, because it will heat or cool your home too quickly and then shut off. This frequent on and off cycle will cause uneven temperatures and higher energy bills.

Rule of Thumb — The maximum size unit you should buy would be 15% over the BTUs you need for cooling and 40% of the BTUs for heating. The max for heat pumps is 25%, since it handles both cooling and heating.

The EPA has set minimum requirements that must be met or exceeded by HVAC equipment. Consumers should know that any heating or cooling system that has an Energy Star label or sticker is energy efficient. The rating is based on a wide range of factors including; energy consumption, cost and performance of the device compared to existing products in the market.

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measure of the average cooling power provided by an HVAC system for every unit of electricity consumed. To calculate SEER, the energy consumption and cooling power of the HVAC system throughout the season must be taken into consideration. Modern heating and cooling systems have SEER ratings ranging from 13 to 22. The higher the value, the more energy efficient the system.

ER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is one of the most important efficiency ratings for HVAC systems. It measures the amount of cooling an AC can give you for every dollar you spend on electricity. The EER rating takes only the hottest day of the season in consideration. SEER is a variation of EER that takes into consideration temperature variations throughout the season.

Well-maintained HVAC equipment will last longer and perform better, and when repairs are needed they will be less costly if problems are detected in their early stages.

While one annual inspection is good, semi-annual inspections that cover your furnace and air conditioner separately are even better.

Because they are hidden behind air intake grills, most people have no idea how dirty their HVAC air filters can get after a few months of usage. To guarantee smooth and steady air flow through your ductwork, and high-efficiency performance by your furnace or air conditioner, you should install new filters shortly before the start of each heating and cooling season.

But don’t make the mistake of installing cheap fiberglass filters. You should purchase good-quality pleated air filters instead, they will last longer and do a superior job of removing airborne contaminants from your home.

Programmable smart thermostats with full Wi-Fi capability can reduce your heating and cooling bills by 20 percent or more, but only if you understand their features and learn to use all of them.

If you purchase a smart thermostat (and you should), be sure to read the manufacturer’s guide from cover-to-cover before using it, and ask your HVAC technician lots of questions when he or she comes to your home to install this amazing money-saving device.

Ducts can become clogged and contaminated with dust, debris, animal droppings, bacteria and many other unpleasant remnants, all of which will slow air flow and reduce your HVAC system’s operating efficiency. For this reason, you should have your ducts inspected and cleaned by HVAC technicians every 2-3 years.

To improve efficiency further, try sealing your ducts with metal-backed or mastic tape, along the seams and anywhere else there might be holes or gaps. After finishing, you may want to wrap them in insulation to prevent them from heating up in the summer or cooling down in the winter, but this step is only necessary if your ducts run through an unconditioned space like an attic or crawl space.

A home energy audit carried out by a trained expert can uncover valuable information about the performance of your HVAC equipment. The auditor will identify sources of energy loss or waste that may be costing you money each and every month, and show you how to make changes that can save you significant dollars in the long run. Enlightenment is the goal of a home energy audit, and you will appreciate the experience immensely once you’ve had it done.

New furnaces and air conditioners carrying Energy Star certification can be 15-20 percent more energy-efficient than older models, which means they will pay for themselves in utility bill savings well before they reach the end of their lifespan.

Rebates may be available from various sources (local or state governments, manufacturers, utility companies, etc.) when you purchase a high-efficiency furnace or air conditioner, and that them an even better bargain than you expected.

hings sure do get hot here in Texas! With the temperatures outside rising, you want your home to be as cool and comfortable as possible.

There are so many AC options on the market today, it can be difficult to decide what's best for you and your family's needs.

With the increased awareness in energy conservation throughout the US, the Department of Energy has been encouraging homeowners to install the most energy-efficient air conditioning system they can afford – but are these new energy efficient units the best choice for your comfort?

The cooling efficiency of AC devices is recorded as a SEER rating. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is the “miles per gallon” rating for AC systems. A higher SEER rating means a more efficient system. The Environmental Protection Agency requires all brands of air conditioning systems to have a SEER ratio of 14 or higher, (since January 1, 2015). Some modern cooling systems have earned up to a rating of 26 SEER and some specialty systems higher than that.

Generally speaking, the older your air conditioner, the less efficient it will be. Technology has advanced since your system was installed, raising the bar for what is considered “high-efficiency”. As your system ages and the more it gets used, the less efficient it will run – this is due to regular wear and the buildup of dirt and debris on indoor and outdoor coils, the blower, etc.

If you have your system inspected and maintained regularly, it will be much more efficient than if you just ignore it. If you don’t maintain your system, it will likely reach that “end of life” point faster. The bottom line is that lower efficiency systems will cost more to run on a day-to-day basis and all central systems should be kept in top operating condition by way of quality periodic inspections and maintenance.

How efficient is your air conditioner at turning your hard-earned dollars into cold air? The more efficient, the better! Just about any system will deliver cold air, but at what cost?

Basic maintenance and upkeep will help keep your AC unit working as efficient as possible. A few things to keep in mind:

Air conditioning systems must have a decent airflow to work properly. Anything that gets in the way of your AC system getting the air that it needs will reduce efficiency and performance by putting undue load on the motor and restricting air from traveling across the evaporator coil (the cold part!).

Airflow and your outdoor unit: Keep outdoor units clear of plants and overgrown weeds. Your AC needs to push all that hot air somewhere! You'll find your radiator fins work like a car radiator – if the radiator is blocked, the unit will have to work harder to produce that cool air you crave. The harder the unit has to work, the more it will cost to run and the more poorly it will perform.

Preventative maintenance: Get it serviced regularly. It's recommended to get your AC serviced at least once a year. This is no different than your car or your body; things need to check out regularly to catch problems early. If an AC system isn't maintained properly, it gets dirty – REAL dirty! If it's not serviced, your AC can get full of hair, dust and debris and can even become a ripe environment biological growth. This can affect the air you breathe. The inside coils can even develop rust, and this can be blown through the plenum to every room in your home. This is a potential hazard for asthma/allergy sufferers and your health in general, but it's also bad for your A/C system too. When you get your annual service, the technician should clean the outside condenser coil and inspect the rest of the system for further maintenance needs. Getting everything looked at, cleaned and maintained properly will go far to help your A/C system run more efficiently, cool your home better and last longer.

Change your filter regularly: We can’t stress this enough! PLEASE change your filter regularly! When you don’t change your AC filter, your central unit gets less airflow delivered to it. Try running up a hill with your mouth covered… it's no fun. Reduced airflow means your AC has to work harder to get the temperature you want. This added pressure to the system can lead to your evaporator coil (the part of your AC that actively cools the air) to freeze up – stopping your system from operating properly and potentially causing some very expensive issues to repair!

Fix leaking ducts: A leaky duct could lose up to 30% of that sweet, cool air before it even reaches the room you’re in! Stop pulling hot, humid air from the attic or, worse, paying to air condition it!

Replace components when they start failing: Get a pro to replace failing capacitors or other components that aren’t working properly as soon as possible. If your A/C has parts that aren’t functioning at their full potential, it can cause other (more expensive) parts to work harder and fail sooner than expected, raising your costs considerably. If your service technician suggests replacing capacitors, don’t wait until these components completely die – this will cause the system to stop working completely and can damage expensive components in the meantime. Don’t forget – Murphy’s Law tells us the system failure will happen on the hottest day of the year, often on a holiday when you have family or friends in town! Be proactive.

Higher efficiency systems are newer systems that outperform their predecessors because they have taken advantage of changes in technology. The best of these systems operate with exceptional variable compressors that help maintain the optimal comfort level by turning on and off as little as possible. The key to your home comfort lies inside the indoor variable speed blower, the outdoor condensing unit and the intelligence of the controller, or thermostat. The compressor on today’s highest efficiency AC systems can variably control the flow of refrigerant and airflow going through the system, meaning you get the capacity you want when you need it, nothing more or less.

This chart illustrates how the temperature in your home is maintained with a minimal amount of energy being spent to keep the temperature consistent over a long period of time. Cycling on and off, not only puts wear and tear on your system, it takes many large bursts of expensive energy to… not really keep your home consistently cool.

Your existing AC system may be 15 to 20 years old. A lot of efficiency improvements have taken place during that time. Those advancements make high-efficiency systems cheaper to run because they are more effective at turning hot air into cold air. Due to the advancements in design and technology, today’s AC systems are more efficient than ever before. Using less energy makes them better for our environment too.

It's definitely worth considering investing in a newer, more efficient air conditioner for your home – benefits of newer AC units include:

They’re less expensive to run: by being more efficient at turning hot air into cold, your energy bills are significantly lower

Variable speed adjusters: Many high efficiency air conditioners are now equipped with variable air speed adjusters – giving the system more control over efficiency, performance and occupant comfort. The Carrier Infinity 20 has load matching performance with speed ranges between 40% and 100% capacity.

Media filters for better filtration: High-efficiency media filters are 4-inches or more thick and have more surface area due to their accordion-style design. This means the air that circulates through your home is actually a lot cleaner and less dirt makes it into your AC system.

Sound reduction as low as 58 decibels* in some models due to compressor sound blankets and upgraded fan blades.

Continuous blower system: A major bonus of installing a high efficiency, variable capacity (multi-stage) AC is the more continuous nature of air circulation. Rather than the irritating on/off cycle of older, less efficient single-stage models, this approach helps regulate humidity and helps to reduce random bursts of cold air. Without having to constantly restart, a high efficiency air conditioner is considerably quieter than their low efficiency alternatives. This move away from the on/off cycling also means there's less wear and tear on the AC unit motors – reducing the risk of early breakdowns.

Although they may cost more in the short term, high efficiency ACs end up costing less in the long term. They cost less to maintain, they last longer, and they use less electricity. But like buying anything new, you need to weigh up the investment, the length of time you will remain in the home and the savings you will see on your energy bill. Your comfort advisor can help you work through this so that you can weigh up your options.

Investing in a quality AC system is a critical part of maintaining your home and creating a comfortable space for your family to live. Spending a little more on a better model now can save you money in the long run, provide you a greater return on investment when selling your home, and keep you and your family comfortable in your home.

If you’re current AC system is struggling to keep your home cool, call McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning to come out and investigate what's causing your AC to struggle.

Contact us today and we can send an expert technician to your home to diagnosis your problem, fast!

You may also be interested in reading How to choose a contractor to install your new AC system, and The Importance of Proper AC System Design. The design (component choices), installation and fine-tuning of your new system can make or break the performance.

* Proper sizing and installation of equipment is critical to achieve optimal performance. Split system air conditioners and heat pumps must be matched with appropriate coil components to meet ENERGY STAR criteria. Ask your contractor for details or visit www.energystar.gov.com quietest size within each model group during most common operating condition.

That might seem like a good thing—too much AC is better than too little, right?—but it can actually lead to problems. An air conditioner that’s constantly turning on and off will be less efficient and will wear out faster. Also, it won’t dehumidify the air in your home as effectively. And in our muggy Tennessee Valley summers, dehumidifying is especially important!

So, your air conditioner should run for about fifteen minutes at a time on mild days and almost constantly on the hottest days, all while keeping your home nice and cool. If it struggles to keep up or runs for less than ten minutes at a time, it’s a good idea to have it evaluated by a licensed HVAC technician for the sake of both your comfort and your wallet.

Allow the air conditioner to run for 15 minutes before testing.

That’s the unit, usually installed in the HVAC closet, which comprises the blower fan and incorporates the replaceable air filter.

Air conditioner supply registers are often located on an outside wall down low beneath a window, while the return registers are usually up high near the ceiling on an inside wall. While the air conditioner is running, you should feel the positive pressure of cool air flowing out of the supply register. The return register is under negative pressure and draws in warmer room air.

Record the temperature reading on the thermometer.

Record the temperature reading on the thermometer.

The differential between the two readings should range between 14 and 21 degrees Fahrenheit. A differential outside that range may indicate duct defects — conditioned air escaping from leaks or unconditioned air being drawn in through leaks — poor duct insulation, improper refrigerant charge due to leakage or dirt or ice on the evaporator coil.

"What temperature should I set my thermostat to for the winter?"

General recommendations for winter thermostat settings:

If someone is at home in the daytime, 72° F (22° C) is a good start, but aim for 68° F (20° C).

If everyone is away from home in the daytime, or you're asleep at night, we feel 66° F (19° C) to 62° F (17° C) is best.

But instead of focusing a perfect number, you will benefit from establishing an energy-efficient winter heating strategy that will keep your home warm and your thermostat settings reasonable so you won't face large energy bills. Here are a few tips.

Ease into winter to Start Saving

Every home has its temperature preference, but setting the thermostat to that temperature and never changing it isn't helpful to your energy bills.

Set your thermostats at that desired high temperature.

Once you and your family acclimate to the colder weather, lower the temperature in the home by one degree each week.

This one-degree reduction - maintained for even eight hours - can reduce a home's energy bill by 1 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Lowering the temperature further and preserving these lower temperatures for longer periods of time increases those savings, and you'll probably never notice the difference with such a slow, gradual change.

Invest In and Optimize a Programmable Thermostat

There is no perfect winter interior temperature for every home, and the savviest homeowners realize there is no perfect temperature for every moment in their homes. Times when your home is left empty – such as work hours or traveling periods – present ideal opportunities to lower the temperature and reduce expenses. However, many homeowners miss this opportunity because they find constantly programming their thermostats too time-consuming. Others simply forget.

Seek Other Temperature-Control Resources

Since you still want to reduce your winter energy expenses without feeling the cold, it pays to be creative.

Shop for a great electricity rate to ensure you're not paying more than you need to for your power. Direct Energy has options to help you make the most of your energy dollar.

Close doors and vents to unused rooms makes it easier for the home's furnace to deliver the desired temperature to occupied living spaces.

Schedule an annual furnace maintenance and inspection.

Seal cracks around the windows or door jambs.

Bundle up. Dressing warmly, even inside the home, will make your family less reliant on the furnace, allowing you to turn down the thermostat another degree. Try using an electric blanket for extra warmth.

Start Saving Energy Today

Determining the perfect winter indoor temperature for your home is really a matter of supply and demand. You must measure your family's desired comfort against the price you're willing to pay for your winter heating bills.

Employing the strategies above can help you find that comfortable winter thermostat setting, one that doesn't depend completely on your furnace and its associated expenses.

Recently, programmable thermostats have become more standard in homes across the nation. Many homeowners are finding that making a simple change from a manual thermostat to a programmable one offers many benefits to your wallet, your home and your comfort.

Adding a programmable thermostat to your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit is an easy project that you can quickly do on your own. You simply purchase a thermostat, and then remove your old unit from the wall, noting where and how the wires are connected. Next, you connect the wires to your new thermostat. It’s important to read over your new thermostat’s installation and setup guide in order to take advantage of all that it can offer your system.

The biggest benefit programmable thermostats offer is the cost savings. Energy bills continue to rise in all parts of the world, and the best way to combat this is to try to reduce your energy usage.

With programmable thermostats, you can adjust the temperature to the exact point of your own personal comfort. For every degree you raise or lower the temperature in your home during the heat of the summer or the cold of winter, you can save up to 2 percent on your utility bill. You don’t have to keep your air conditioning or heat on high while you’re away from home. You can create a schedule that follows your family’s routine, and keeps the temperature cool or warm while you’re there, but eases up on the energy usage when you’re not home.

Another big plus of programmable thermostats is their ability to help you maintain the perfect, consistent temperature throughout your home. Instead of cranking the air conditioner on high during the height of a heat wave, programmable thermostats can run at a constant level. During the freezing cold of the winter, your heat can stay steady as it follows your programmed temperature schedule.

With the help of a programmable thermostat, your family and friends can feel more comfortable in your home all year long, and you can avoid major hot or cold spots in different areas of your house.

Homeowners also love the fact that they can spend less time adjusting their thermostat with a programmable version. With a manual thermostat, it can take some practice and extra time to go through the steps of setting the temperature during different times of the day. When it’s time to leave your house, you have to go back to the wall unit and make adjustments — a practice many of us neglect in the first place. Then, you have to readjust every time you come home, when you go off to bed and when you wake up in the morning.

Using a programmable thermostat can eliminate all of that time spent in front of your manual device. You can set a schedule one time per season, and then forget about it, so you can focus on feeling comfortable instead.

Keeping your home energy-efficient is one of the top maintenance issues that homeowners think about throughout the change of seasons. A more efficient home can utilize its resources more effectively and bring less wear and tear to major appliances and systems. Our nation may be facing energy shortages in the future, and it’s important to make sure your home doesn’t contribute to energy wastefulness and negative environmental impacts. Using a programmable thermostat is one thing you can do to help curb your waste.

Before installing a brand new HVAC system, most contractors give residents recommendations to try first before committing to such a large purchase. If your HVAC system is older or not as efficient, before you invest in buying a new one, you may want to try pairing it with a programmable thermostat to help it do its job. When you reduce the workload and help your appliance work at its best, this can give it a little more time to get you through the season.

If you do need to replace your HVAC unit, you can help keep your new purchase in top condition with a scheduled system of heating and cooling.

Another benefit of programmable thermostats is that they allow you to take advantage of the different times of day and the temperature variations depending on the position of the sun and the season. When the morning or afternoon sun starts to heat up your home during the peak times of the summer months, you can adjust your cooling schedule. Likewise, during the colder parts of the year, you can reduce your heating power and let the warmth of the sun help take over the warming duties. During the cold winter nights, you’ll likely need to boost your HVAC’s heating power to help keep your family comfortable.

Newer models of programmable thermostats are coming equipped with many different varieties of high tech tools, such as Wi-Fi ability or technology that allows you to control your thermostat using a laptop, tablet or smartphone. Having a thermostat that is connected to your home network can help you create a truly linked home that can be easily controlled from the comfort of your couch or virtually anywhere. If you are on vacation and you notice that there is an unseasonably warm or cold day back home, you can adjust the temperature of your house thermostat easily from your device.

The final way that programmable thermostats can help keep your residence running smoothly is if you have multiple climate zones within your home. Different zones around your home can already increase the energy efficiency of your property. With programmable controls in each zone, you can truly customize each climate and temperature throughout your home’s square footage.

Spending the small amount of money that is needed for a programmable thermostat can be one of the most cost effective investments for your residence. You can expect to take advantage of additional energy savings that may be reflected in a lower utility bill. Beyond the money savings, programmable thermostats can help you maintain the best and coziest atmosphere throughout your interior spaces.

o, how frequently should you change your air filter? The answers is: it depends.

Typical recommendations range from every 30 days for cheaper fiberglass filters (which often don't do a great job of filtering), to as long as 6 months for higher-end pleated filters. These estimates assume average use and take into account the type and size of your filter

A general rule of thumb for pleated air filters is to replace your filter every 90 days. As your filter traps more dirt, dust, and allergens from the air, filter efficiency decreases. Find out below if you should be replacing your filter more often.

Those with asthma and/or allergies are much more sensitive to airborne particles than those without. If you have an asthma- or allergy-sufferer at home, change your filter every 6 weeks to ensure indoor air quality is at its best.

Those with asthma and/or allergies are much more sensitive to airborne particles than those without. If you have an asthma- or allergy-sufferer at home, change your filter every 6 weeks to ensure indoor air quality is at its best.

Cats and dogs shed and have odors that can build up in your space, making it necessary to change your filter every 2 months. Generally, cats and dogs shed most when winter turns to spring and summer turns to fall, which are key times to replace your filter.

Superior indoor air quality is especially important with kids around. Keep your home clean and air quality under control by replacing your vacuum filter every 2-3 months.

The rate at which you use your heating and/or cooling system

If you live in a temperate climate and use your heater and/or air conditioner up to a few hours every day, a single filter can last you from a whole season to an entire year. If your HVAC system is running on a near-constant basis, however, change your filter every few weeks (especially if you're using a cheaper fiberglass filter).

Furnaces and air conditioners in smaller homes need to pump less air for the same amount of temperature change, which may mean less frequent filter changes. These appliances are often built with smaller filters, though, and thus may need to be changed just as regularly as a filter in a larger home.

The air within or outside your home will also affect your filter's replacement cycle. Pets or poor air quality, for example, will require you to replace your air filter more frequently.

Any use will lead to some amount of dirt being trapped in your air filter - that's its job, after all. So how do you know when your filter has trapped too much dirt and needs to be replaced? There's no strict guideline, but if your filter shows only a subtle layer of dirt under which the filter's material is still visible, your filter is in fine working order. Once it gets much beyond that point, it's ready to be changed out. If there's a visible coating of dirt covering most of your filter's surface that is adequately thick to obscure the filter material itself, that's a sign that your filter has been in your HVAC system far too long. Every few weeks, take out your filter and give it a look! Is there a musty odor? Is the filter covered in dust? If in doubt, it's always best to err on the side of replacing your filter. They're relatively inexpensive, and that small cost to keep your heating and cooling vents clear will be well worthwhile when your energy bill comes due. If it's been a while since you've changed your filters, we can help you find the right size, brand, and type of HVAC air filter for your furnace and/or air conditioner.

Air Conditioner Filters

The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system's efficiency significantly. With normal airflow obstructed, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil's heat-absorbing capacity. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

For central air conditioners, filters are generally located somewhere along the return duct's length. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself. Room air conditioners have a filter mounted in the grill that faces into the room.

Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They are available in a variety of types and efficiencies. Clean or replace your air conditioning system's filter or filters every month or two during the cooling season. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have fur-bearing pets in the house.

The air conditioner's evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over their months and years of service. A clean filter prevents the evaporator coil from soiling quickly. In time, however, the evaporator coil will still collect dirt. This dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid this problem, check your evaporator coil every year and clean it as necessary.

Outdoor condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. You can easily see the condenser coil and notice if dirt is 

collecting on its fins.

You should minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mower are all potential sources of dirt and debris. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet (0.6 meters) allow for adequate airflow around the condenser.

The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent and can block airflow through the coil. Air conditioning wholesalers sell a tool called a "fin comb" that will comb these fins back into nearly original condition.

Occasionally pass a stiff wire through the unit's drain channels. Clogged drain channels prevent a unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet.

At the start of each cooling season, inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame to ensure it makes contact with the unit's metal case. Moisture can damage this seal, allowing cool air to escape from your house.

In the winter, either cover your room air conditioner or remove and store it. Covering the outdoor unit of a central air conditioner will protect the unit from winter weather and debris.

When your air conditioner needs more than regular maintenance, hire a professional service technician. A well-trained technician will find and fix problems in your air conditioning system.

Check for correct amount of refrigerant

Test for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector

Capture any refrigerant that must be evacuated from the system, instead of illegally releasing it to the atmosphere

Check for and seal duct leakage in central systems

Measure airflow through the evaporator coil

Verify the correct electric control sequence and make sure that the heating system and cooling system cannot operate simultaneously

Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections, and apply a non-conductive coating if necessary

Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear

Check the accuracy of the thermostat.

By treating your cooling & Heating system to regular maintenance, it will keep you cool/heat and comfortable and save you money. Here are just a few of the benefits of an annual ac/heating maintenance tune-up:

Air Conditioning units that are regularly serviced perform more efficiently. The more efficient your ac unit performs, the lower your electric bills will be. A study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that a well-maintained HVAC consumes up to 20 percent less energy than a neglected one. And, here in Florida – Your air conditioning unit is responsible for nearly half of your total electric bill.

The average life of a home’s air conditioning system is said to be between 10 and 20 years. But, a well-maintained unit can last as many as 30 years. Air conditioning units that receive little to no care may not even make it to their tenth birthday, a drastic difference in life span.

A potentially hazardous condition can be caught early by a qualified and experienced air conditioning technician. Preventative care for your unit can help to eliminate or lower the possibility for costly repair bills in the future.

Replacing your air conditioner, by contrast, will cost several thousand dollars. Even small repairs can run several hundred dollars. A qualified technician can often find and address small problems with A/C units through a regular inspection that, left unnoticed, could grow into larger, more expensive issues.

In between your annual ac maintenance calls, there are a few things you can do to help to increase the efficiency of your home’s air conditioner:

Periodically inspect the outdoor unit for damage, and keep the area around the unit free of dirt, debris, weeds, foliage, leaves and twigs.

When you’re not home or on vacation, turn up the air conditioner until you return. This will lessen the load on your system, and it will last longer. Many of the newer thermostats also have schedules that you can use to choose different settings for different times of the day according to your personal schedule.

As your HVAC system runs, it accumulates dust and dirt in key areas that affect its efficiency, like the condensing coils and air filters. Left unchecked, your A/C system can lose up to 5 percent of its operating efficiency each year because of this buildup, meaning it can’t cool your house to the best of its ability as it could if it were clean.

Inspections pay for themselves through improved energy efficiency, which saves money on utility bills, and a longer-lasting air conditioning/heating system.

Whether you want to optimize your existing system or you’re on the hunt for an energy-efficient air duct sealing solution, the experts at ASM can help you save money on your monthly electric bills. Give us a call or contact us online for more helpful tips and information.

While your central air cost will largely come down the size of your home, the average cost to install central air ranges between $2,500 and $7,000. However, if your home needs extensive ductwork, the price can go up.

The maximum cost reported for central AC installation is $7,000.

The minimum reported cost of central AC installation is $2,500.

Your central heating installation costs will also depend on the size of your home, what heater you choose to add, and whether extensive ductwork needs to be done. However, the cost of a full central heating system ranges between $4,000 and $20,000. Just know, the maximum price includes extensive ductwork.

The maximum cost reported for central heat installation is $20,000.

The minimum reported cost of central heat installation is $4,000.

As you saw with both systems, the cost to install central heat and air varies quite a bit. That’s because there are a few price factors that drastically affect your installation cost. The primary cost factors for any central air installation include:

Efficiency

Size

Features

Noise Level

To start, it’s a good idea to think about energy efficiency. By choosing a central AC unit that has as high of an efficiency rating as possible, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money in the long run. Efficiency ratings should be labeled with all units. While efficient units may cost more, going with an Energy Star-rated appliance is a great way to enjoy additional peace of mind.

Next, and perhaps just as important when it comes to central air costs, is the AC unit's size. A unit that is too large will have an easy time keeping the home cool but will have a more difficult time removing humidity from the air. On the other hand, a unit that is too small will not be able to properly cool the home on hot days. Considering larger units cost more than smaller units, it pays to ask a local HVAC professional what size AC unit your central air system needs to hold.

Many AC units come with a number of special features that can further improve performance and efficiency. For example, homeowners may want to look for one that comes with a built-in filter light that will alert you when the air filter needs to be changed. Another popular feature to look for is a fan-only switch, which you can kick on at night to reduce energy costs even more. Of course, more features mean higher central air costs.

One of the greatest benefits of having a central AC unit installed is the noise level (or lack thereof). Compared to window AC units, central air systems are much quieter. Nevertheless, you should read reviews of various central air units to determine which ones have the best sound ratings, especially if the unit will be located close to a bedroom.

If you’re feeling uncomfortable about the costs associated with central AC installation, fortunately, there are ways to save. First, shop around to find the best deals. Comparing quotes among local cooling companies can help to cut costs. Furthermore, requesting a quote during a non-peak time of year, the fall or winter, can also help you save money. In most regions of the country, cooling companies are able to charge more during spring and summer due to high demand.

Much like central air, there are similar cost factors that affect the price of central heating. Again, you may not be able to control all cost factors, but knowing all beforehand will surely give you leg up as you research the best and most appropriate central heating system.

Central heat cost factors include:

Type of Heater

Efficiency & Size

Ductwork

Labor

Time of Year

First, unlike central air, you have a few options when it comes to central heating systems. We’ll jump into costs later, but you can choose from a furnace, boiler, or heat pump. In general, furnaces are the most affordable option. However, your choice will largely come down to what your ducts allow or what was formerly in your home. Ask your heating contractor for the most appropriate choice.

As with most home improvement projects, the cost of a full central heating system can vary widely based on the size of the home. Most furnaces will last between 15 and 20 years. In choosing a furnace, property owners should consider heat output and efficiency. Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs, and the size of the furnace should be matched to the size of the home. A small home, for example, may not be well served by a high-BTU furnace. The furnace may heat the home too quickly and shut off for too long, resulting in inconsistent temperature levels.

Today's furnaces are rated 90% efficiency or better; it is not uncommon for a modern furnace to be rated 94 or 95% efficient. Compared to older models, which may be rated as low as 80% efficiency, this can mean significant savings in annual heating costs. Modern two- and three-stage furnaces increase efficiency even further by running at lower or higher capacity depending on the heating requirements of the area.

Next, you have to consider ductwork. If new ductwork must be installed, project costs may increase by as much as $5,000 on a typical job. As you can see, ductwork has a profound effect on the cost of a full central heating system.

As for labor, heating contractors charge between $50 and $100 per hour. Electricians, who you also may need, charge upwards of $200 per hour depending on the area.

Finally, the best times of the year to install a central heating system are in the spring and summer months. Because of decreased demand in the warmer months, contractors may be available to perform work sooner and perhaps at lower prices. The installation of some energy-efficient heating systems may qualify you for a tax break, and most contractors can answer at least a few questions about the potential tax benefits associated with their systems.

How Does The Central Air Installation Cost Compare To The Central Air Material Costs?

According to our air conditioner installation cost guide, most homeowners pay roughly $7,000 to install a new air conditioner. This price includes both materials and labor. Nevertheless, it pays to have a breakdown of the two cost categories.

First, know that a majority of your central air and unit cost will come from the unit itself. AC unit costs start at $2,000 and can actually exceed $10,000 for larger homes. As you saw recently, you need an appropriately-sized unit for your home. Otherwise, the AC will break down sooner than expected or your monthly energy costs will skyrocket. Therefore, you don’t have total control as to your AC unit material costs.

On the other hand, you have 100% control over whom you hire to install your central air unit. In fact, you can even DIY, despite our strong recommendation not to do so. If you do take our recommendation, expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 in labor costs to install central air. Furthermore, cooling contractors may charge an additional $50 to $300 for extra supplies and equipment.

How Does The Central Heater Installation Cost Compare To The Central Heater Material Costs?

Again, similar central air, your total central heat installation cost will largely come down to the heater and size of your home. You can’t change the amount of space your heater needs to service, but you can choose what type of heater to purchase. The following are the most popular central heating units and their average installation prices (including labor):

Heat Pump: $7,100

Furnace: $3,800

Electric Furnace: $1,700

Gas Furnace: $2,700

Oil Furnace: $4,000

In order to reduce your central heat cost, always gather at least three heating quotes before hiring someone to perform the work. It’s important to get all warranties in writing. A new furnace installation will usually involve two warranties: a manufacturer's warranty covering the operation of the furnace itself and a contractor's warranty to cover the labor. Extended warranties may be available at an increased cost.

Beyond additional costs, most homeowners prefer central air over AC window units. Beyond doing a much better job at cooling the home faster, central air gives you much more control of the exact temperature, lets you set a schedule, is much quieter than window units, and lets you package it with heating systems.

However, the real pros and cons will depend on the system you install. The two common types of central AC units are:

Split Systems

Packaged Units

The split system is the most common. Most people are used to seeing this type in the backyards of homes. With split system units, most of the components are housed in a metal box outside of the home. However, there are some internal components as well. Split systems are ideal for cooling multiple rooms at once, but are not very energy efficient. Therefore, one pro is not having loud equipment in the home. At the same time, the con would be that those who use this might spend more money on cooling costs in the long run because of the lower energy efficiency.

A packaged unit, usually installed on the roof, is most commonly used on commercial buildings, but it is also an option for homeowners to consider. Often times, these units contain not only the air conditioning unit itself but also a furnace. An advantage of this unit is surely the cost. Packaged units are great for those looking to save money on the installation of a new heating and cooling system separately since the unit is combined. However, one con is that these units are typically only available for larger homes due to their high power and capacity. Additionally, while they can be a good way to save money on a complete HVAC system, they’re still significantly more expensive than buying just a cooling system. Therefore, this may not be the best option for homeowners looking for short-term savings or those with smaller budgets.

Beyond the obvious of heating your home whenever you need, there are plenty of advantages to installing a central heating system. As you’ll see below, the pros surely outweigh the cons.

First, in terms of perks, heating the entire house or building from one unit makes things easier logistically, and the isolation of the heating unit from the living space is a bonus for some homeowners. The system can be used to provide hot water as well as climate control. Additionally, residents can adjust temperatures in different parts of the home by closing vents in ductwork or by using room or area-specific temperature controls. You can also set a schedule with central heating systems. Overall, central heating provides a reduced environmental impact.

One of the drawbacks of central heating is that it’s potentially expensive to install, especially in an older home. Depending on the type of unit installed, it can be noisy and cause problems if you’re highly allergic to dust. Additionally, certain fuels and equipment may require special permits, and there is limited flexibility in the event of changed heating requirements. During use, there is a time delay while heat is being transported from the heating unit to the living space.

As time evolves, not only are most homeowners installing central heat and air, but these proficient and technological-advanced systems are getting smarter and more efficient by the day. While they do bring a high upfront cost, their long-term benefits make it a no-brainer.

According to allergyandair.com, a recent study found that raising indoor humidity levels to at least 43% dramatically affected approximately 85% of airborne viruses, rendering them virtually ineffective. As a result, researchers are now contemplating increasing the humidity levels in hospitals across the nation as an extra method of protecting doctors, nurses, and visitors from also getting sick.

Moisture can prevent the movement of germs, as they combine with this moisture and simply drop. This happens because the airborne particles are now too heavy to float around in the air. In turn, this helps prevent the spread of many illnesses.

In the winter, heating systems often have an adverse effect on your skin because a dry and hot environment makes it hard for the body to retain moisture. During this time of year, you may notice your skin is cracked and in desperate need of some moisturizer. Skip out on parched and irritated skin by introducing a humidifier into your home. The water vapor released into the air will hydrate your skin, hair, and lips.

During the winter, the air from a heating system is dry. That dry air has a low humidity level that will absorb moisture from you and everything inside your home. This can make you uncomfortable and wastes energy in your heating system by trying to keep you warm. Dry air does not hold heat well, so by adding water vapor from a humidifier it balances the humidity, moist air feels warmer and prevents your heater from working overtime. Therefore, a humidifier can help you and your home feel comfortable when your thermostat is set at a lower temperature helping keep your utility bills lower.

Dry air can also cause damage to wood furniture, drying it out and making it crack. It can loosen joints in a wood floor. Doors made of wood can change in size, making them difficult to open and close, and the legs and arms on chairs may begin to wobble as the joints loosen. This is all because wood needs a constant level of moisture to be at its best. When used properly, a humidifier can ensure that the wood features in your home and furniture will look their best.

Static electricity is often increased in dry winter months. This electricity can be annoying when associated with your laundry or frizzy hair. Even worse, built-up static can even damage sensitive electronics; even create sparks, which could damage flammable gas or dust. Properly humidified air has the ability to limit, even prevent most problems that come from static.

While most humidifiers have the same basic function, to add moisture to the air, many types are available:

These use electricity to create steam, which cools before it leaves the unit. However, there is a risk of burning the skin, and people should avoid using steam vaporizers around children.

Instead of electricity, these units use vibrations to vaporize water.

These produce humidity by blowing air past evaporating water.

These are generally child-friendly and use rotating disks, rather than heat, to vaporize water.

A person connects one of these units to the central air conditioning in the home or office to add moisture to the entire space.