How to Pay for New AC with Energy Savings

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How much does it cost to replace my AC, and can it be financed? These are questions we hear often. The answer lies in the efficiency of your air conditioning system.

Let me explain…

It costs between $7,000 and $15,000 to install a new HVAC. Of course, the cost depends on the type and capacity of the equipment. Also, your choice of air conditioning system will depend on the size of your house or office. This is a lot of money for a new HVAC. Even the unit AC system is pricey.

Considering the cost of a new HVAC, your best option for paying it is with energy savings! When your AC works efficiently, you save a huge sum of money on electricity bills during the year. If you add up what you would save over time, you could easily pay for a new AC.

The Makeup of an HVAC System

Your HVAC system is composed of different components. Some of these parts are inside your home. The other parts are located outside.

These are the main components of an HVAC system:

  • Outdoor unit

As the name suggests, these are located outside your home. This unit houses the compressor, coil, condenser, and fan.

  • Indoor unit

This unit consists of the evaporator coil, furnace, air-handling unit, and air blower. Its job is to absorb heat and cool your home. They are often located in the basement or a closet.

  • Refrigerating lines

The connector between the outdoor and indoor units is the refrigeration lines. This component carries and circulates Freon, responsible for removing the hot air in your home.

  • Ductwork

The ductwork distributes air around your home from room to room. It connects to the vents that release cooled air in your rooms. This component comprises both the inflow and outflow of air ducts for the efficient running of your AC system.

  • Thermostat

This component gives you the power to control how your AC system works. The device communicates with your HVAC to instruct the system to the desired temperature.

No matter your type of HVAC system, whether split, mini-split, or packaged, the need for efficiency is paramount to cost-saving. 

Before asking why the AC is freezing up, you should ask if maintenance is in place.

An efficient running AC will pay back its cost

A better way to pay your new AC cost is to ensure an optimum power-saving operation. When your AC runs efficiently, you will pay less on energy costs. You can read the article “How to Make Your AC More Efficient” to learn about AC efficiency.

You can pay for your new AC in Energy Savings

As explained above, you will save more on energy bills if your AC runs at optimum efficiency.

While every HVAC system can operate in an efficient, cost-saving manner, you, as the owner, have a role to play.

Since you understand that your AC system has several components, you need to give each part proper maintenance.

Apart from the technical side of keeping your AC running efficiently, there are other things you can do to help.

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Here are ways you could make your AC more energy efficient:

  • Shade your house with trees

Having leafy trees around your house will block the sun and keep your house cooler. Your AC works better in an airy and cool environment and benefits from cooler air in the surroundings. 

  • Use window blinds

About 76% of sunlight enters your home through the windows. It will help your AC if you cover all the windows with solar screens or other recommended window covers.

  • Install high energy-efficient AC

It is often recommended to replace your old AC with a high energy-efficiency ratio unit (EER Unit). Installing an energy star-qualified system will ensure a substantial cut in energy bills over time. We recommend talking to an experienced HVAC technician when you are considering a replacement.

  • Desist from using the stove and oven

If you avoid using a stove or oven in hot seasons, your AC will save energy costs. In summer, the weather is twice as hot, and your AC works twice hard to cool the house. Using a stove will increase the temperature and make it even harder for the AC to cool.

  • Ensure regular maintenance

Your energy bill will keep rising if your AC isn’t working efficiently. With regular maintenance, you can keep every part of your AC system working at optimum efficiency, ensuring overall running efficiency and energy saving.

Need help making your AC more efficient?

Every homeowner, including the DIY enthusiast, needs HVAC professional help when it comes to energy savings.

If you live around the Coachella Valley area – Indio, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, or La Quinta – a reputable air conditioning repair company is nearby.

Let Anthem Heating & Air help you make your new AC pay its cost in energy savings! Call now at (760) 895-2621.

Can I Finance My New AC?

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Are you searching for how to finance a new AC unit? Well, you are at the right place for useful information.

There are different options for financing a new AC, but many homeowners find personal loans the easiest. And, yes, you can finance your new Ac with ease if you have the money.

Why is a new AC important?

A home is a place to dwell in comfort, and many states around the country are blazing hot in the summer. A functional AC is necessary for air quality and comfort. Also, it helps cut down on energy costs, improves your well-being, and reduces your carbon footprint to engender a greener environment. 

There is a challenge, though.

Many homeowners love new ACs. The issue is financing. A new AC costs from $7,000 to $15,000. With the rising cost of living, coughing out that much cash can be a challenge.

However, there are options homeowners can explore. The best option is to seek financing from friendly sources.

What are the options for financing my new AC?

You have several ways to finance a new air conditioner. Some of the options include home equity, credit, or a personal loan. 

However, many homeowners face the challenge of low credit scores and high interest rates. Credit companies and banks won’t deal with anyone with low credit scores, and the process of building your score means more discomfort from the hot weather.

It isn’t easy to qualify for new AC financing with a mortgage, credit card, and personal loan repayment burdens.

Notwithstanding your current financial commitment, there are options to finance a new AC with PROPERTY ASSISTED CLEAN ENERGY programs.

Working with a professional, public-spirited HVAC company helps you achieve an AC that runs efficiently. For this reason, Anthem Heating & Air provides its customers with access to friendly home improvement finance options.

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The below options for financing are not the traditional ones whose main focus is profiteering. They are designed for home improvement purposes.

  1. YGRENE Program
  • Low-cost funding over long terms
  • Energy efficiency and renewable energy 
  • Water conservation upgrades

     2. HERO Program

  • Low-cost, long term funding
  • Upgrades funds for energy and water efficiency
  • Central air-conditioning projects
  • Home improvement – landscaping, roofs, doors, and windows

      3. SYNCHRONY Private Finance

  • Unsecured, revolving credit lines
  • Simple application and fast credit decision process 
  • Financing for individual circumstances
  • No interest option
  • 115-month payment option
  • Flexible payment and repayment plan

     4. REBATES AND TAX CREDITS

  • Rebates from various sources, including federal tax credits
  • Upgrading to energy-efficient systems
  • Compensations for home improvement

      5. ENERGY BUNDLE PACKAGE

  • You can sort your new AC financing under this program. The package takes the best of each financing option above to give you appropriate and pocket-friendly financing. Call (760) 895-2621 now for details.

Need a reputable HVAC company near you?

One of the ways to begin financing a new AC journey is to find a reliable AC company near you. Finding the right HVAC services will get you quickly to your destination.

Another reason to find a professional AC company is to use their expertise for the best financing. With their guidance, you can cut to the chase and get a comfortable offer.

You can work with Anthem Heating & Air if you live anywhere around Coachella Valley.Call (760) 895-2621 now to discuss your new AC financing.

How to Make Your AC More Efficient

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The summer months can be unforgiving and brutally hot, especially if you live in the Coachella Valley area! You don’t want to ask why your AC is blowing warm air at such a time. One way to ensure needed relief from hot weather is to make your AC run more efficiently.

Running a less efficient AC in summer often ends in high energy costs and discomfort. You don’t want to lose money or put your health at risk of heatstroke! Ordinarily, your HVAC will gulp energy costs in summer under even efficient operation, but the cost could triple if the performance is below optimum.

Whether you are running a brand new AC or its older brother, it is important to keep it efficient. If you are worried about making your AC more efficient, keep reading for a professional guide to achieving optimum efficiency.

Signs Your AC is Running Below the Efficiency Threshold

Here are a few ways to detect your AC performance and know if it’s efficient or not. If you observe these signs, dig further for clarity and action.

  • Increased energy cost

One way to take a look at your AC performance is if your energy spending is increasing. Usually, one expects the cost to rise during the hotter months. If it’s more than the usual, check your AC.

  • Frequent cycling

Your AC thermostat helps to regulate its performance. However, if the cycle is too often, try checking if it needs replacing. Another reason for frequent cycling is the compressor, have your AC technician check if all is well.

  • Ice on compressor

Ice on the compressor or any part of your AC system is an indication that something is not right. Continued build-up of ice could lead to inefficiency. You should call in your AC technician for a check and recommendation.

  • Unfamiliar sounds

You should be familiar with the sounds your AC usually makes. If you start hearing strange and unusual sounds, it’s an indication your AC needs checking.

Tips to Make Your AC More Efficient

It is essential to observe closely all the factors listed above. Also, it would be best if you did more to achieve the run-time efficiency of your cooling system.

Below are five things to do if you want your AC to run more efficiently.

  • Close doors and windows

AC is supposed to run in a closed environment. A situation where you allow the outside, warm air to filter into the enclosure would affect efficient cooling. When your AC is running, make sure to close all the doors and windows for cooling efficiency.

  • Seal any leak in the attic, doors, and windows

This applies to any area through which warm air can filter into the enclosed environment. You want to double-check your attic for leaks or tiny openings and plug them. Do the same for doors and windows to close any gaps allowing in warmer air.

  • Shade the condenser

While your AC condenser needs maximum airflow, ensure it’s kept under shade to avoid direct sunlight. Keep the surroundings clean and uncluttered with a roof over its head.

  • Observe regular filter changes

The filter contributes largely to how efficient your AC will be. You can read the article “How Often Should I Replace My Filters” for a better understanding. The AC needs a clean, dirt-free filter to deliver the best performance.

  • Put in place a preventive maintenance schedule

We can’t emphasize scheduled maintenance enough! Your AC is composed of various active and not-so-active parts. You need to check the system regularly to detect trouble early and fix it. Remember, AC doesn’t just stop working or misbehave. It’s gradual steps, and you can detect them with preventive maintenance.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace My AC?

Before asking how much it costs to replace the AC, it’s best to keep it working more efficiently. With regular maintenance and keen observation of how your AC performs, you can keep it running for many years.

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Start Scheduled Preventive Maintenance Today

Preventive maintenance will save you time and money with your AC. It will ensure you never suffer discomfort from heat, and it will keep your family and staff safe from heatstroke.

Suppose you need a reputable air conditioning repair company near you in the Coachella Valley area. You can trust Anthem for all your cooling and heating system maintenance.

Call (760) 895-2621 to put in place a preventive maintenance culture for your HVAC to run at maximum efficiency.

How Often Should I Replace My Filters?

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We are often asked why the AC is blowing warm air. Many homeowners are troubled about their HVAC system not cooling evenly across rooms. There are several reasons your AC could act up. One of them is the filter. So, how often should you replace it?

Filters play an important role in cooling and heating systems. More often than not, a filter change should happen every 30 to 90 days, depending on several factors.

When the filter is dirty, it could limit airflow. More often than not, it shoots up energy bills. The worst experience is during summer. This is when you are expecting a relaxing but instead end up disappointed.

Knowledge is power. If you know a thing or two about your HVAC filter, there is much you can do to save the day. This article will guide you on the frequency of replacing your filters. When you are done reading, you should know what to do.

What Types of Filters are There?

There are two types – Fiberglass and Pleated. The former is low-cost and disposable, while the latter is disposable and more efficient.

Possible causes of filter problems

  • Depending on your location, dirt can quickly build up and restrict airflow. Dirt could result in your AC freezing up or short cycling.
  • Allowing a filter to stay longer than is necessary. If you leave your air filter too long, it could lead to filter problems.
  • Not used often. Leaving your AC unused or idle for too long could affect the parts.
  • Irregular maintenance could increase wear and tear and affect the filter.

Factors Influencing Filter Replacement

  • Location. If you live in an environment where you use your AC less often, you can most likely go longer between replacements.
  • Season. Periods of the year, like summer, may require more cooling than winter, when the AC is at rest. At such a period, the replacement could linger.
  • Size of the home. A larger home will require frequent changes of the filter than a smaller apartment.
  • Pets in the house. To prevent germs and their spread, you should replace the filters often if you have pets in the house.
  • Allergies. Polluted air can easily spread around the house with a dirty filter. It’s best to replace the filter every 30 days for the sake of any member of the house with allergies. 

How Often to Change Home Air Filters

Fiberglass filters need to be changed every 30 days of use due to their low efficiency and quality. They can quickly accumulate dirt and cause discomfort with continued use.

For pleated filter types, it is recommended to change them between 30 and 90 days of use. It is best to change them anywhere from 30 to 45 days during the summer and winter months.

As earlier mentioned, the season is an important factor in filter replacement. During milder seasons like spring and fall, the cooling system works less. However, it is important to have scheduled maintenance for all-season efficiency.

How to Know When HVAC Filters Need Replacing

While you need a reputable air conditioning repair company to help figure things out, the following will help you know when your filter needs a replacement.

  • The fans are working harder and causing increased wear and tear of the unit.
  • The unit is blowing warm air rather than cool.
  • You notice more dirt in the rooms than usual. The filter allows more dirt and contaminants to pass through instead of blocking them out.
  • More dirt builds up in the duct.
  • The unit is working harder than normal and shooting up energy bills.

It is recommended to have scheduled maintenance in place for your air and furnace filters. The best approach to prevent a filter emergency is a regular check once every month. If you notice any of the symptoms above, you possibly need to replace the filter. You can have your AC technician double-check for confirmation.

Buying a New HVAC Filter

Before you start asking how much it costs to replace my AC, it would help to know how to buy a new filter.

The costs of filters will vary depending on your location. However, we recommend going for a quality filter, which may be a bit more expansive.

When buying a filter, it is best to go for the pleated option. Pleated filters are studier with wired mesh support. Try to look for one with a high MERV rating.

MERV means Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. Thus, buy a filter with a MERV rating of eight or nine. These categories can filter out tinier particles.

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When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

Your cooling and heating systems are for your comfort and enjoyment. It doesn’t feel good to have them disappoint you when you need them. As professional HVAC technicians with years of practice, we recommend calling a professional technician from day one.

From experience, a filter will not constitute a problem if a professional technician is looking after it.

If you live within the Coachella Valley or surrounding area, allow Anthem professionals to care for your cooling and heating units. Call (760) 895-2621 now to discuss your needs! We are glad to help!

How to Select a Reputable AC Repair Company

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Even though your air conditioning system should last for many years, certain things may go wrong during its lifetime. Luckily, proper maintenance by a reputable air conditioning repair company can help avert or minimize any problems that might arise. 

Air conditioner maintenance works to ensure optimal performance and avoid setbacks that require repairs. Still, AC breakdowns are inevitable, especially if you are highly dependent on it. So, what do you do when your air conditioner ceases to function? Look for a repair company or technician, right? 

Sometimes, finding the best air conditioner repair company is not easy. You probably have seen innumerable ads claiming they are experts in AC repair. This guide will help you evaluate these AC repair companies and decide on one.

Tips for Selecting the Right AC Repair Company

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Think of the following questions when choosing an AC repair company: How much money can you spare? What size unit is it? How long will it take? What are your expectations for repair work? The following are what you should look for in an HVAC company.

1. Ensure the AC repair company is credible 

When you look for an AC repair company, you want to make sure they are decent. This doesn’t mean calling a company and asking what their business policy is. Make sure to find out what their company has to say about their services online. You can also talk to reps face-to-face if it’s viable. Many companies will advertise that they have customers in the long-term, but this is rarely the real deal. Ensure you are happy with your first impressions of them before signing up for anything.

2. Ask for their service hours

Service hours are one factor to consider when looking for an AC repair company. It’s a bare minimum factor you should consider regardless of the qualification of the technician. Given that most repairs are unanticipated, 9-5 business hours is not applicable. You need someone who works round the clock and during holidays. Reputable companies always provide thorough quality service every time. Service hours should be stated clearly on the website and other channels of the repair company.

3. Ensure the technicians are certified 

Before you hire an AC repair company, you want to ensure that they are authorized and certified by their respective states to perform AC repair work. NATE certification shows consumers that the technician they are working with is trained to the highest industry standards. Not only does this ensure that you’re getting top-notch services, but it also means the law protects you should anything arise. If you hire an unpermitted repair company, you could be held liable for any damage or expense incurred as a result of the repair being performed unauthorized.

4. Ask past customers for their recommendations

Another tip for choosing a quality AC repair company is to contact several customers who have had experience with certain companies. Make sure you get references from customers who have selected the company before. It is also essential to ask questions of your references regarding the AC repair company’s quality record. These references help you understand the company’s professionalism, work ethic, and experience, all from a customer’s perspective. Ask the customers to be as honest and thorough as possible to ensure you get unbiased opinions.

5. Inquire about cost and payment options

AC repair can be costly depending on various things. Still, it doesn’t mean you should get extorted or break the bank to have your AC repaired. A reputable AC repair company should be able to help you with cost, payment flexibility, and financing options. Estimates and quotes usually indicate this information. As such, estimates are also essential documents to ask for when vetting AC repair companies. 

6. How long have they been in business?

AC companies that have a long history of work are better suited for many reasons. They tend to have built credibility in their service area. Therefore, you can easily find their past customers for references. And, these companies have experience with the weather conditions of the area. This helps them provide custom services. However, make sure that the period they claim to have been in service is accurate. 

Conclusion 

A reputable AC repair company does not need an introduction since its reputation precedes them. As the competition gets stiffer, most companies have developed better and more creative ways to stand out. For you, this becomes harder. But, sticking to the above tips as the bare minimums will help you have a practical selection approach. In the end, you need the best services to restore air conditioning in your home.

How to Choose the Right Size Replacement Air Conditioner

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While undersized air conditioning units struggle to adequately cool rooms, oversized ones have inconsistent cooling and heating cycles and will consume too much energy. Eventually, this is harmful to the lifespan of your AC. On the contrary, properly sized air conditioning units go a long way in performance and efficiency. 

The question now becomes how to choose a replacement that’s the right fit. There are guidelines you can follow, and, in this article, we will go into the details of some of them. It’s also worth noting that size is calculated in cooling capacity, not actual physical size.

How the Cooling Capacity of AC Units is Calculated

Let’s get a bit technical here. Essentially, central air conditioning units’ efficiency is measured by the energy efficiency ratio (EER). EER is the ratio of cooling capacity, given in British thermal units (Btu), to power inputs given in watts. The cooling capacity of an AC unit depends mainly on the size of the house.

Most central ACs have between 5,500-14,000 Btu or more cooling capacity. For every square foot of living space, 20-25 Btu cooling capacity is required for optimal cooling. Therefore, to calculate the right AC size for your home, you need to measure the square feet of your home and multiply by 20/25 Btu. For instance, if your house is 400 sq. ft., you’ll multiply 400×20 to get 8,000 Btu. 

An hourly rating of 12,000 Btu, equivalent to 1 ton, is common for central AC units. Therefore, most AC units are identified by tons, thus simplifying the jargon for regular people. Air conditioning units have indications of the Btu per hour expended. This will make the shopping process easier for you.

What are SEER Ratings?

Provided that EER is the standard measure of cooling efficiency, SEER ratings are calculated over an entire season. So, SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Primarily, calculating SEER values takes into account the outdoor temperature ranging between 65 – 104 degrees Fahrenheit. SEER ratings are also important when sizing AC units.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC Size

The ACs cooling capacity isn’t the only consideration you need to make when choosing a size. The following are other aspects that affect the efficiency of an air conditioning unit: 

  • The height of your ceiling. The higher the ceiling, the more air is needed for cooling.
  • Insulation of the room. Rooms insulated with foam tend to control air temperature, and they require smaller cooling capacities. 
  • Room occupancy. The higher the number of people in a given area, the more cooling capacity needed. Humans generate heat that adds to the room temperature. 
  • The number of appliances in the house. Electric appliances that release heat, such as TVs and washers, add warmth to your room.
  • Surrounding weather conditions. Different parts of the world experience varying weather conditions around the year. This variance needs to be considered when sizing an AC for effective cycles.

Reasons to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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Sometimes air conditioner replacement makes more sense than the never-ending repairs. Then again, apart from the sizing problem, there are other good reasons you might consider replacing your AC unit. These include:

  • Energy efficiency. Older models have low SEER ratings, which show low energy efficiency. Switching to a modern air conditioner with a better rating will help you use energy more efficiently, thus saving you on bills.
  • Huge repair costs. Over time, AC repair costs pile up, and it becomes hard to keep up. A replacement, whether partial or entire, can cut on these bills. 
  • Age of the AC. Air conditioning units have an average lifespan of about 15-20 years. Old AC units have outdated technologies and break down easily. 

Get Professional HVAC Services in Coachella Valley

When your air conditioning is acting up, the last thing you want to do is wait for an appointment or parts. Anthem Air Conditioning is one of the largest air conditioning repair companies in the Coachella Valley. It has the service personnel and stocked products to keep you cool when it’s triple digits outside. We service the Coachella Valley and Riverside. Call us today at 760-892-2621 to get instant help.

3 Signs to Know You Are Low on Freon

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Several processes occur for the air conditioning system to cool or heat your house. For a successful cycle, many components are required to function correctly. One such component is the condenser. This unit is responsible for supplying condensed refrigerant from the compressor by heat transfer to cool indoor air. This shows that the refrigerant, or Freon, is a critical component that should always be in top-notch condition.

R-22, R-12, and several others are examples of these refrigerants. Freon is a brand name that acts as an umbrella to these different types of refrigerants. Given the importance of Freon, a leak or contamination will have adverse effects on the AC system. But how can you tell if the AC has leaked off or is tainted?

Why Low Freon Is a Big Problem

As the Freon undergoes cycles between liquid and gaseous states, it should remain at a constant level referred to as the Freon charge. Freon does not get used up, but its level can reduce due to leakages. A low refrigerant charge could be a predecessor to bigger AC problems. 

A low Freon charge can lead to compressor damage and overall inefficiencies of the air conditioning unit. This problem happens when the low refrigerant causes freezing on the evaporator coils. Eventually, the ice build-up leads to the insulation of the coils and slows the cooling process. As a result, the compressor uses more effort to compress air, which damages its motor.

Given that the compressor is considered the most crucial component of the AC system, its damage means a setback to air conditioning. However, this doesn’t mean you will need to replace your air conditioning unit entirely. After looking at what causes Freon leaks, we will learn how to prevent compressor damage.

Causes of Refrigerant Leaks

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Several problems usually cause freon leaks, and the age of the AC is one of them. As the compressor unit ages, the evaporator coils tend to get rusty on the assembly joints. Subsequently, the coolant will leak when flowing through these coils. Also, a naturally occurring acid called formic develops on the coils’ outer surface, thereby destroying the tubing with pinholes. Freon escapes through these pinholes leading to a low Freon charge. Over time, an AC that runs on low Freon will utilize more power, attracting high utility bills.

Signs That Your AC Is Low on Freon

Basic AC troubleshooting skills are necessary to help you diagnose the unit and avoid huge repair costs. Equally, knowing when the Freon is low will help you take the desired action fast and avoid secondary AC problems. 

Although not always guaranteed, there are common signs that reveal when the Freon is low or contaminated. Let’s look at them in more detail.

1. Your AC is blowing hot instead of cold air

AC units perform optimally when the required Freon charge is kept constant. If the level drops, cooling will not occur, forcing the air vents to blow room temperature air into the house. Even though several reasons can cause this problem, low Freon largely contributes to it. So, before concluding that it’s due to low Freon, check thermostat settings, air filters, and registers. 

2. The coils are frosting over, and you hear dripping

As we saw earlier, low refrigerant causes heat insulation when cold air gets frozen on the condenser coils. This happens because the compressor lacks enough refrigerant to compress, leading to cold refrigerant. The cold Freon attracts moisture which freezes up. The dripping you hear occurs when Freon temperatures rise, and the frozen air starts forming liquid water.

3. Hissing sounds from the refrigerant line 

This one is pretty obvious. The hissing sounds are a result of the gaseous Freon escaping the system. These sounds could be low or high depending on your proximity to the system and the leakage level. One on hand, the leaking is confirmed, and, on the other hand, it’s alarming and requires swift action.

How to Handle Freon Leaks

Although approved Freon compounds are not dangerous, they need special handling from certified and experienced HVAC technicians. These specialists will assess the situation and come up with the best cause of action. Remember that Freon is an expensive compound, so you wouldn’t want to take chances. Are you experiencing the above signs? At Anthem Air, we deal with cases like low Freon leaks regularly. Therefore, we have the experience and capability to handle coolant leaks and other AC problems. Contact us, and we will be happy to help you.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?

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Not getting cold air on a hot summer afternoon is one of the most common air conditioning challenges. It happens at the most unexpected times, and it can be a precursor to a much bigger AC problem. Therefore, it should not be ignored. Better yet, you should strive to prevent it from happening in the first place. If it does happen, you need an urgent solution that is inexpensive and effective. While it’s possible to fix AC not blowing cold air by yourself, it’s always recommended to consult with an HVAC technician. But first, let’s first look into what’s making the air conditioner struggle to blow cold air. 

Reasons Why the Air Conditioner Is Not Blowing Cold Air

There are many reasons why your AC is not blowing cold air,  but there are a few basic situations that lead to this problem. These are: the AC is running but not cooling the house, the AC is running but blowing hot air, or the AC is not running at all.

Scenario 1: The AC Is Running but Not Cooling the House

For air conditioning units that contain an outdoor unit, this scenario occurs when the unit is blocked or clogged. Since the unit is sucking air from the sides, it tends to suck up the surrounding materials. This is what leads to blockage. Subsequently, the clog prevents the condenser fan from drawing air into the condenser, pulling heat from the interior. This process is essential and works to lower the temperature of the air circulating in the house.

How To Fix This:

In this scenario, the condenser is usually clogged with dirt, leaves, or debris. As you might have guessed, the obvious solution is cleaning. Mild dirt and debris can easily be cleaned with flowing water and a hose. First, switch off the power supply from the switch located near the condenser. Then proceed to spray water from the inside out until the condenser fins are free of the clogging material.

Scenario 2: The AC Is Running but Blowing Hot Air

The primary function of an air conditioning unit is to regulate the indoor air temperature of the room. In most cases, this regulation involves cooling indoor air when the temperature is too high. It gets to a point when the AC blows hot or warm air instead of cold, raising the heat inside your home. Unless you have a reversible air conditioner that provides heating and cooling solutions, you don’t want this to happen. But when it does, there are several reasons. These are:

  1. Incorrect thermostat setting. A manual thermostat usually requires adjusting when there is a temperature change. When these settings aren’t toggled appropriately, it can mess up the AC cycle. 
  2. A power problem. At times, cables get unplugged, and switches get flipped. 
  3. Low refrigerant. Refrigerant is responsible for the cooling properties of your entire AC unit. When it’s low, it causes pressure in the evaporator coils to drop, thus forming ice on the coils.
  4. Dirty air filters. Air filters found on the air vents accumulate all sorts of foreign material that eventually limit airflow in the house.
  5. Blocked air registers and return vents. When there is not enough air flowing inside the house, the AC will blow in hot air.

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How To Fix This:

Adjusting temperature readings and modes on the thermostat is a good place to start. Alternatively, you can switch from a manual to an automatic thermostat that will adjust itself accordingly. Also, make sure connectors and switches are turned on. Then, change the air filters regularly and keep return vents open when needed. Last, call a qualified technician to fix the refrigerant leak and inspect other causes of the AC blowing hot air. 

Scenario 3: The AC Not Running Completely

This is another cause of the AC not blowing cold air. Where this is a more uncommon scenario, it can happen for a number of reasons. Your AC might be experiencing a maintenance problem that requires inspection, or it could be a switch that’s turned off. It’s also worth noting that most of the reasons we discussed above can lead to the complete failure of the whole unit. But don’t panic.

How To Fix This:

If you have basic AC troubleshooting skills, you could solve the issue of the AC not running at all. Otherwise, you might have to contact an HVAC technician to come and inspect the problem and possibly provide a fix. All in all, the issue of AC units not supplying cold air can be easily and permanently fixed. 

Conclusion

Weather conditions continuously make air conditioning systems essential household appliances. Therefore, when something is not working right, it robs you of peace of mind. Consider the issue of the AC unit not blowing cold air. Situations like these require prompt action to prevent further damage. As you have seen, with the right approach, it can be fixed. More importantly, we understand that problems like these can be intimidating. That’s why we are always ready to help. Are you feeling stuck? Contact us today.