Preparing Your Thermostat for Cooling Season

With cooling season on the horizon, it's time to prepare your home and thermostat so they're optimized for comfort and energy efficiency. Here's how you can get ready for the coming change in weather and temperature.

Invest in New Thermostat Technology

If you rely on a basic digital control to regulate your home's HVAC system, you'll appreciate the convenience that a programmable thermostat provides. The Department of Energy (DOE) also advises that going programmable can save you up to 10 percent on your yearly HVAC energy consumption. When choosing a new thermostat, look for one that works with your type of HVAC equipment and also meshes with your usual weekly routine.

Prime Your HVAC for Summer Energy Savings

To reap the greatest savings, the DOE recommends programming your thermostat with different temperature adjustments for specific periods each day: lower when you're home and active, and higher when everyone is sleeping or away. These daily temperature adjustments can add up to sizable savings over time, because a one-degree change for eight hours brings a one-percent drop in annual energy consumption. You should also:

• Set the temperature at 78°F when you're at home and active.

• Increase it to 85°F at night and when the house isn't occupied.

• Don't be afraid to experiment to see if you can save more energy with a higher temperature. Do so incrementally, one or two degrees at a time, to avoid causing discomfort or overtaxing your cooling equipment.

• Never use the override function to make a big temperature adjustment in order to cool down the house faster. The cooling process won't speed up, but you can accidentally cool your home too much and end up wasting energy.

• Run your ceiling fans in tandem with your air conditioner to boost the cooling effect, but only in occupied rooms. With the blades moving counter-clockwise, the fan's air movement cools the skin, which lets you raise the temperature setting by up to four degrees.

For expert help getting your Broken Arrow home ready for the cooling season, contact us at Air Assurance.

Benefits of a Portable A/C

Although it’s hard to match the convenience and comfort of a central air conditioner, sometimes it makes sense to use a portable A/C in junction with it or independently. Over the last few years, portable air conditioners have become more energy efficient and versatile and they may be just what you need in certain situations.

Supplemental Cooling

If you need supplemental cooling in one particular room or area of your home because it’s consistently hotter than the rest, a portable air conditioner might be the best solution. You can use the A/C as a supplemental cooling unit only when you plan to use the areas that are overly warm.You might have a home office or a hobby room that isn’t consistently used. When the air conditioner isn’t in use, you can disconnect the venting hose and tuck the unit into a closet or roll it into a corner.You may also use the cooling unit to make a guest or family member more comfortable. What’s comfortable for one person may not be for another and rather than cooling the whole house down to accommodate their preferred sleeping temperatures, it makes sense to use a portable unit to cool just their bedroom instead.

Dehumidification

One of the newest features a portable A/C may have is a dehumidify-only switch. Being able to remove the humidity without having to cool the room. Humidity increases the "feels like” temperature and by lowering it, you will feel cooler. You can also use this feature in the winter to dry out a damp, clammy basement.

Appearances

Unlike window or wall air conditioners, portable units have small venting requirements that aren’t necessarily visible from the street. When the unit isn’t in use, simply remove the vent and store the A/C. Wall and window A/C units, on the other hand, have an unsightly appearance both indoors and out.

A portable A/C might help you solve some of your cooling and humidity challenges. For more information, contact Air Assurance, providing trusted HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Turning on Your Air Conditioner: Steps to Take First

With temperatures getting warmer, it will soon be time for turning on your air conditioner. Before you do so, though, there are certain steps you should take to make sure that it’s ready. Use the following steps to prepare your air conditioner for the summer months, so that your Broken Arrow home can stay as cool as possible.

Replace the Air Filter

The air filter inside your HVAC system has a direct impact on the quality of your indoor air. It also affects how efficiently your HVAC system works. If your system has a dirty filter, it will have to run for longer periods of time and work much harder to cool your home, which increases the risk of repairs. Take time to change the air filter in your HVAC system before turning on your air conditioner for the season. Having a clean air filter helps your cooling system work as efficiently as possible.

Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

If weeds or other debris and vegetation are around your outdoor unit, they can block air from flowing out of it. This leads to excessive wear and tear on your HVAC system, which shortens its lifespan. Make sure that your outdoor unit has a clear space of about a couple of feet around it on all sides.

Check Your Thermostat

Before you use your air conditioner for the season, check the settings on your thermostat. It should be set to “auto” rather than “on,” and you should adjust the temperature as needed. Having the fan turned to “on” means that your system will run constantly. Having it on “auto” means that it will run when it needs to in order to cool your home.

Set Up Routine Maintenance

Schedule preventative maintenance for your HVAC system before you cool your home. This maintenance helps ensure that your air conditioner is in good working condition for the season.If you need maintenance for your air conditioner before you use it, please contact Air Assurance for help. We offer dependable HVAC services for homeowners in the Broken Arrow area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

What's the Difference Between HVAC and A/C?

If you're like most homeowners, you find HVAC terms confusing, and since some seem interchangeable, it can be hard to know exactly what terminology like “HVAC” and “A/C” really means. Although they're similar, these two terms aren't synonymous, so it's beneficial to know the differences between the two.

Definition of HVAC

The meaning of the term “HVAC” is heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Most often, this acronym is used in reference to a home's complete comfort system. A system may be comprised of various heating and cooling components, such as a gas furnace, electric central split air conditioner or heat pump, ductless mini split units, or geothermal heat pump system. The system's ventilation portion often refers to the air circulation/distribution components like the blower unit, ductwork and air filter, but it can also include a whole-house ventilation unit, or an air cleaner unit added to the HVAC system.

What A/C Means

The term “A/C” stands for “air conditioning,” but it's frequently used to describe any type of home cooling equipment, such as a traditional split-system air conditioner or heat pump, mini-split unit, geothermal system, or even a window unit.

Different Types of Equipment Have Different Maintenance Needs

Routine preventive maintenance is the key to keeping any sort of comfort equipment running reliably and efficiently, so all the common components of your HVAC system should be inspected, cleaned and tuned-up by a skilled technician on a twice-yearly basis. Different portions in your home's HVAC system also need specific maintenance tasks performed, such as:

• Cooling equipment: Before cooling season begins, the evaporator and condenser coils should be cleaned, the condensate drain flushed and the refrigerant level checked.

• Heating equipment: Every fall, the gas burner should be cleaned and tested, and the venting system and heat exchanger inspected.

• Ventilation components: With every preventive maintenance visit, your technician should clean and lubricate the blower assembly, check for proper system airflow, and install a fresh air filter.

To learn more about the meaning of different HVAC terms and how they relate to the comfort system in your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Name That Tune: What a Humming Air Conditioner Means

All air conditioners make noise as they run, mainly from the blower fans and the compressors. When the dominant sound is a humming air conditioner, odds are, something isn’t working as it should. The most common problems associated with the humming sound include:

Indoor Noises

• When you hear humming sounds from the air handler, it may be caused by a frozen motor. Some blower motors require periodic lubrication to keep their bearings turning smoothly. A lack of oil will seize the bearings and prevent the motor’s shaft from turning. It could conceivably run until it burns out.

• Humming from the breaker box. Whenever you hear humming sounds near the circuit breaker panel, suspect a serious electrical problem and turn off the noisy breaker. If you can’t identify which, turn off the main breaker and contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Outdoors

A humming sound is much more likely to originate in the outdoor condenser and it could be coming from:

• The compressor. This part does the heavy lifting in cooling systems and it could hum or buzz when it’s at the end of its lifetime. It could also indicate an electrical problem involving the compressor.Compressors sit on rubber isolation feet that can wear out or crack. Damaged feet can cause the compressor vibrations to amplify and cause humming sounds.

• Frozen coil. It might seem counterintuitive, but a humming air conditioner may have a frozen coil. Coils freeze when the refrigerant level is too low or they’re too dirty. A frozen coil can do serious damage to a heat pump or A/C should the compressor continue to run.

• Fan problems. The condenser uses a large fan to blow the heat off the hot refrigerant. There could be a problem with its motor or the fan blade, which could be loose or bent.

Whenever you hear a humming air conditioner and it’s not working as it should or the sound is isn’t part of its normal operation, contact the pros at Air Assurance to diagnose and fix it. We proudly provide HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Things to Avoid When Buying a New Air Conditioner

When buying a new air conditioner, you obviously need to focus on buying a dependable model that won't blow your cooling bills sky high. But other considerations are important, too, including a number of things to avoid when buying a new A/C. Save a lot of time and trouble by following these tips:

Don't allow the A/C contractor to talk you into a certain capacity model without considering the unique factors of your home. A professional air conditioning installer should insist on conducting a cooling load calculation on your home. This involves taking into consideration a range of factors including your home's size and layout, amount of window coverage, energy efficiency (level of air sealing and insulation), building materials, orientation to the afternoon sun, and more. Only when they determine your home's cooling load can they recommend the right-sized A/C.

Don't accept an estimate for a new air conditioner over the phone. The contractor should insist on inspecting your home, and learning about your energy habits, past cooling bills, and other factors that may affect what sort of central A/C is right for your home.

Avoid choosing the cheapest A/C available. While the upfront cost may be affordable, you'll likely be plagued with higher monthly bills years into the future, as well as poor performance and more frequent repair bills. The A/C's service life probably will be shorter than it would have been with a better model. In areas with hot summers, it pays to invest in a higher-efficiency A/C that will provide more cooling at a lower price.

Don't forget about available rebates that might be available from the manufacturer, electric utility or HVAC contractor for purchasing a higher-efficiency air conditioner. Some years the federal government offers tax credits for high-efficiency A/Cs.

Likewise, don't neglect to consider purchasing a maintenance contract that will assure annual professional maintenance for your new air conditioner. A well-maintained A/C will deliver better cooling at a lower price for a longer period of time.

For help choosing the right air conditioner for your Broken Arrow area home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about new air conditioner and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Watch Out for These 3 A/C Condensate Drain Problems

You might be surprised to learn that your home's central air conditioning system is more than a cooling system. If it's working properly, it also should also dehumidify your home. As a result of this two-fold function, all that moisture removed from the air has to go someplace. In most systems, the water drains away without any issues, though in some systems, A/C condensate drain problems can arise. Following are some of the most common.

Overflow

In a properly operating A/C drainage system, moisture removed from indoor air during the cooling process will drip from the evaporator coil into a collection pan. It then flows through a condensate drain line to the household sewage drainage system and then out of the house. The collection pan and condensate drain provide a welcoming environment for algae growth. The algae can clog the drain line, resulting in water backing up, overflowing the collection pan and flooding the area around the evaporator coil. This can damage floors, walls, carpets, fixtures and belongings, and the homeowner may not find out about the water backup until it's too late. If your A/C is equipped with an overflow sensor, it will shut down the system until the clog is addressed.

Drain Trap Problems

In most central A/Cs, the condensate drain line has a U-shaped trap, similar to the traps you see in toilet plumbing. Its purpose is to keep sewer gases and fumes from backing up into the house. If you start smelling nasty odors coming from air conditioning supply registers, it could mean a problem with the drain trap. You'll want to call a plumber or A/C technician ASAP.

Mold Growth

Mold spores love the dark, damp area around an A/C's condensate collection pan and drain. From there, mold can make an easy jump into household air during the cooling process. This creates a health hazard for home occupants, especially those with allergies and other respiratory conditions.

To prevent common A/C condensate drain problems, please contact us at Air Assurance to schedule preventive maintenance on your Tulsa area home's cooling system.

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Keep Cool and Reduce Humidity in Your Home With These Tips

The first goal of any air conditioning system is to cool the home, but that's not the only thing. Effective residential cooling also requires the ability to reduce humidity. If your home is cool but still damp and clammy, your A/C isn't doing its job. The good news is that every homeowner has available strategies to dehumidify the home. 

Dehumidification Steps for Your Home

The following are a few ways to dehumidify your home:

• Effective ventilation: This is especially important in rooms or areas where activities add moisture to the air, such as bathrooms and the kitchen. Make sure these areas have exhaust fans that are vented to the outside. The last thing you want is for moist air to be redirected back into the house.

• Attic ventilation: A hot, muggy attic can have a negative effect throughout the house. Make sure the attic has the right amount and type of vents, and consider an attic fan. The attic floor should be properly sealed and insulated to separate attic heat and air from the downstairs living spaces.

• Shorter, cooler showers: Those 15-minute, steamy showers may feel good, but they add a lot of moisture to the air that can remain in the bathroom and general area for hours afterward. Along with using the bathroom exhaust fan, take shorter showers that aren't so hot. Install low-flow shower heads to reduce humidity and save water.

• Use the A/C: Most of the time, you can better dehumidify household air with the air conditioner running than by opening windows. A well-maintained, properly sized cooling system is designed to remove moisture from indoor air.

• Get a dehumidifier: For persistent whole-house humidity, you'll need an effective whole-house solution such as a dehumidifier that connects directly to the home's HVAC system.

For more advice on how to remove humidity from your greater Tulsa area home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

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Central A/C Features to Keep in Mind When Looking for a New System

Central air conditioners tend to have long life spans of 10 to 15 years on average, but sooner or later, the time comes for A/C replacement. If your cooling system is nearing the end of its days, the following advice can help you understand what central A/C features to look for when you're shopping for a new system.

The Right Size

A system sized too large for a home's cooling load will short cycle, running inefficiently and failing to remove moisture. The home's occupants will feel clammy and need to turn the thermostat down to keep comfortable. A system sized too small will run continuously, straining to meet thermostat settings.Both situations overwork parts and can lead to breakdowns and potential system failures. Get the right size by insisting your contractor use Manual J software to determine cooling load, Manual D software for ductwork, and Manual S to determine the size of the cooling system.

SEER

SEER is an acronym for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The minimum SEER mandated for air conditioners by the Environmental Protection Agency is currently 14 for systems manufactured after Jan. 1, 2015, and 13 for systems manufactured prior. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the equipment, as long as it's sized and installed properly. Use SEER to guide you when comparing similar models.

Quiet Operation

Noisy air conditioners that cycle on with a rumble and a bang are annoying and can interfere with sleep and entertainment. Look for brands and models known for quiet operation, and use consumer ratings and reviews to guide you or ask your contractor for recommendations.

Desirable Features

Modern air conditioners offer a number of convenient and efficient features. Some have a thermal expansion valve to modulate refrigerant flow for greater efficiency, or a variable speed air handler. A fan-only switch allows homeowners to turn on ventilation and reduce A/C use.

For more on central A/C features, contact Air Assurance. We've been providing our Broken Arrow customers quality HVAC service since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “James J. Flanigan/Shutterstock”

Learn About All the Systems That Explain What HVAC Stands For

Do you know what HVAC stands for? It's an acronym for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Let's have a look at each of these individual systems and see how they work together to provide your home with a comfortable environment.

Heating

The most common method of heating in the American home is forced air, with a furnace burner warming air, then dispersing it through ductwork and vents. Less common are radiant heating systems, using a boiler to send hot water through a home by way of tubes in the floor or through radiators in each room, and geothermal heating, which absorbs heat from the ground to disperse through the home.

Ventilation

Ventilation systems use an air handler and a home's ductwork to draw in return air, removing pollutants as the air passes through the filter and then dispersing conditioned air through supply ducts into the home.

Auxiliary ventilation equipment such as exhaust, supply, balanced or heat recovery or energy recovery ventilation systems may be installed to move moisture, odors and pollutants out of the home and let fresh air in. Air purifiers help by trapping pollutants and keeping them from circulating in your home's air, while dehumidifiers remove excess moisture in the home that might promote mold.

Air Conditioner

The air conditioner controls the temperature in your home in the summer months, providing cooling and eliminating moisture. If you have a split system central air conditioner or a heat pump, the air conditioner will consist of two units: an indoor evaporator and air handler and an outdoor compressor. Refrigerant is pumped between the two, with the refrigerant absorbing heat indoors and exhausting it outside. Air inside the home is cooled when it passes through an evaporator coil and is dispersed by an air handler through a system of ducts.

Another type of air conditioner is a ductless mini split, also a heat pump, but without ducts. It distributes conditioned air through air handlers mounted on the wall, ceiling or floor.

To learn more about what HVAC stands for, contact Air Assurance. We've served the metropolitan Tulsa area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Stuart Miles/Shutterstock”

When Shopping for a New A/C, Pick One With a Variable-Speed Air Handler

One technological advancement that has significantly increased energy efficiency in central cooling and heating systems in recent years is variable and multi-stage operation in air handlers, compressors and furnaces. If you're shopping for a new A/C this summer, you'll want to select one with a variable-speed air handler

.What Is a Variable-Speed Air Handler?

In a split-system air conditioner or heat pump, the air handler is the component that blows air across the evaporator coil and then circulates conditioned air through the house before drawing it back into the system. In cold winter climates, the furnace blower often serves as the A/C air handler. When the air is blown across the evaporator coil, heat energy is removed, along with humidity contained in the air. This creates cooling comfort in your home.A standard air handler has only two modes of operation: off and 100 percent on. This means it operates for a short period until the home is cooled, then shuts down until it receives the signal to turn on again. In a variable-speed air handler, the motor adapts its speed to conditions in the home. It will typically ramp up to full operation until the thermostat setting is achieved, then slow down to continuous, low-level operation to maintain that temperature. It doesn't short-cycle like it does with a standard air handler.

What Are the Advantages?

• Energy savings: Low-speed continuous operation uses less energy than stop-and-start high-speed operation. The technology in a variable-speed air handler motor is also intrinsically more efficient than an old-style standard motor.

• Improved comfort: The continuous operation allows for better air circulation in the home with fewer hot and cold spots.

• Quieter operation: Low-speed continuous operation makes less noise than the stop-and-start racket of a standard air handler.

• Superior humidity control and air filtration: When the system is running steadily without stopping, household air runs through the system many more times in a day. This allows for more air filtration and humidity removal.

To discuss upgrading your Tulsa area home's air conditioning system with a variable-speed air handler, please contact us today at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “GSPhotography/Shutterstock”

Should You Set Your Thermostat to Fan On or Auto?

When setting your thermostat, have you ever wondered about the difference between the "On" and "Auto" fan settings? If you fiddled with it, you likely figured it out quickly. What you may not know is why one setting is better than the other when it comes to energy efficiency and home comfort.

"On" vs. "Auto"

First, it's important to recognize that a central forced-air HVAC system has two interlinking modes of operation. The first is the equipment that cools or heats the air. The second is the system that distributes the air throughout the house and draws it back to the equipment to be conditioned again. The thermostat fan setting controls operation of the second part of that equation.When the fan is set to "On," the blower motor and fan run 24/7, regardless of whether the A/C, heat pump or furnace is cooling or heating the air. Setting your thermostat fan setting to "Auto," however, makes sure the fan only operates when the system is actively cooling or heating the air.

Advantages of the "Auto" Setting

Here are a few benefits of keeping your thermostat fan set to "Auto:"

• If your central HVAC system is oversized, which is common in residential systems, it will cycle on and off frequently. Residual moisture removed from the air during the cooling process is left on the evaporator coil. If the fan is running continuously, the moving air will re-absorb that moisture and circulate it through the house. Your A/C ends up working harder to dehumidify the air, and the cooled air will feel clammy.

• When the fan is running all the time, it uses more energy than it would if it were set to "Auto."

• If your ductwork isn't tight, the constant fan operation may result in more air infiltration into the ducts. Depending on the source of that air, it could be dirty or humid if it's entering the ducts from an attached garage or crawl space.

For more help setting your thermostat, please contact us at Air Assurance. We provide quality HVAC services to residents of Broken Arrow.

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Tips for Landscaping the Area Around Your A/C Unit

Drive through any neighborhood and you'll see a boxy, gray air conditioning unit sitting conspicuously next to most houses. Occasionally you don't see one and that's probably because it's hidden by strategically planned trees, shrubs and bushes. Landscaping the area around your A/C unit will improve the appearance of your home while ensuring the outside unit gets plenty of needed airflow and shade for efficient operation.

Maintain Airflow

Maintaining airflow to the outside unit improves the condenser coil's ability to release heat energy into the surrounding air. When that heat exchange process is impeded, your air conditioner will have to work harder to cool your home.

To make sure the unit has plenty of airflow, keep all landscaping elements and other objects at least two to three feet away from all sides of the A/C equipment. Above the condenser/compressor, there should be at least five feet of clearance from overhanging trees or housing fixtures. Landscaping shouldn't prevent easy access to the unit for maintenance and repairs.

Add Shade

Your HVAC installer should choose a location for the outside unit that's shaded most of the day, and you can add landscaping for additional shading. Releasing heat energy from the unit requires less work and energy when that heat is being expelled into cooler, shaded air. In direct sunlight, it has to work harder and use more energy to accomplish this.

Choose Low Maintenance Plants

Of course, landscaping should be attractive for its own sake while hiding that gray box from people walking or driving past your home. If possible, choose trees and shrubs that stay green in the winter. This means less raking and sweeping around the outside unit and less clutter that can potentially block the free flow of air. In the winter, vegetation that doesn't shed leaves will continue to hide the outdoor component. Consider planting attractive hedges and erect lattice work for hanging greenery.

To further discuss the best way of landscaping the area around your A/C unit, please contact the home comfort experts at Air Assurance. We provide excellent services to Broken Arrow and the greater Tulsa area.

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Consider These Air Conditioner Options When Cooling Your New Home Addition

If you're planning to add a room or section onto your home, one of the major decisions you'll have to make is how to cool and heat the added space. The decision could have far-reaching consequences; if you choose the wrong alternative, it could prove quite costly. Here are three main options for heating or cooling your new home addition.

Extending an Existing Cooling and Heating System

This is the simplest option if your existing HVAC system has the capacity to cool and heat the added space. It just requires the labor and materials to extend existing ductwork. You can also have a zoning system installed, which allows for independent temperature control in the new area.

Replacing an Existing HVAC System

This option is practical if your existing system is nearing the end of its useful service life. This usually happens after 15 years or more for a furnace, and 10 to 12 years for an A/C or heat pump. When replacing your old system, you can upgrade to high efficiency heating and cooling, setting yourself up for lower energy bills. For even more efficiency, combine this with a weatherization project throughout your home by sealing air leaks and enhancing insulation.

Install an Independent System

If either of the first two options are too expensive or otherwise impractical, consider installing independent cooling and heating. A variety of options are available, including a ductless mini split, a small furnace-A/C setup, or a mini-duct HVAC system. With all of these options, you get independent temperature control in your home's added space.

For more advice on heating and cooling your new home addition, please contact us at Air Assurance. We've provided superior HVAC services to Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding communities since 1985.

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5 Facts About Air Conditioning All Homeowners Need to Know

If you're like a lot of folks, you take for granted the hard work your central air conditioner does in your home. The fact is, the more you know about its workings, the better equipped you'll be to properly maintain your A/C and troubleshoot problems that may arise. Here are five facts about air conditioning that should pay long-term dividends in comfort and energy savings.

How It Works

In a split-system central A/C, the condenser/compressor component located outside your home works in tandem with the indoor evaporator/air handler unit to cool and dehumidify the home. A chemical solution called refrigerant boils at a very low temperature and allows heat exchange to occur inside and out. As refrigerant flows through the evaporator coil, it's allowed to expand and boil, a physical process that extracts heat and moisture from the indoor air. That results in cool air, which is circulated in the home via a powerful fan, ductwork and registers. Outside, the hot refrigerant is compressed into a liquid, which releases heat energy into the outside air. Then the process starts over.

The Importance of the Air Filter

An air filter located in the return ductwork removes dust and other particulates from the air before it's drawn into the A/C. This protects sensitive components, enhances the efficiency of the cooling process and improves indoor air quality.

Maintenance Is Essential

Schedule annual professional maintenance on your central cooling system for optimum efficiency and comfort. Basic homeowner maintenance is also important, such as regular air filter replacement.

Help Your Air Conditioner Out

If you lower your home's cooling load, you'll give your air conditioner an easier workload. This will improve its performance and extend its service life. Seal air leaks in your home's outer perimeter and make sure insulation meets standards. Seal duct leaks, too.

Don't Forget Ventilation

You should have an effective exchange of inside and outside air several times a day, using both passive and mechanical ventilation.

For more information on the central air conditioning that's cooling your Broken Arrow area home, please contact the HVAC experts at Air Assurance.

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How to Troubleshoot an A/C That Is Blowing Hot Air

How to Troubleshoot an A/C That Is Blowing Hot Air

There are many reasons why your A/C may be blowing hot air. This guide will outline five of the most common issues to help you understand what you can fix yourself and when to call a professional for assistance. But first, before you go through this checklist, make sure your thermostat wasn’t switched to heat mode. It could have been switched on accidentally, and it's best to check off the obvious issues first.

Issues With Your Outdoor Condensing Unit

Your outdoor condensing unit compresses and controls the refrigerant's flow through the cooling unit and must be running properly for the system to remove heat from the home. If the condenser is off, it could be as simple a fix as resetting the breaker or as complex as replacing the compressor.

Overheated or Faulty A/C Compressor

The A/C compressor is housed in the outdoor condensing unit. There are several potential problems that could occur within the compressor parts, so it must be examined closely by a professional.

Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter will cut off airflow to the A/C coil, waste energy and stress system components. Your filters should be changed following the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every 30 to 60 days.

Low Refrigerant Levels

This is the most common issue when an A/C is blowing hot air. Refrigerant may be low because of an improper charge during installation, or you may have a small leak. In either case, you'll need an expert to recharge the system and make any necessary repairs.

Unit Not Properly Maintained

Most home comfort systems are taken for granted and ignored until they fail. Routine preventive maintenance can catch small problems before they become repair or replace issues and save you money long-term.

If your A/C is blowing hot air and you need it fixed quickly, please contact us at Air Assurance. We provide quality HVAC preventative maintenance and services to Broken Arrow and the greater Tulsa area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”

Simple Steps to Protect Your A/C Unit From Theft

The relatively small amount of copper contained in your air conditioner's outdoor unit is an attractive target for thieves. To steal the copper in the coil, wiring and coolant lines, they won't hesitate to dismantle this costly component and leave you with spilled refrigerant, exposed electrical wires and an expensive A/C replacement. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to protect your A/C unit from theft to help avoid this costly and stressful experience:

• Put the unit inside a cage - Enclosing the unit in a locked, well-built steel cage that's securely bolted in place will make your A/C less appealing to would-be thieves who are looking for a quick and easy copper heist.

• Have an alarm installed - Have your HVAC contractor install an alarm that sets off a loud siren if tampering, voltage interruption or refrigerant leaks occur in your outdoor unit. Most alarms are designed to alert you by phone as well.

• Install lights and a camera - Add a security camera to monitor the air conditioner. Place it in a difficult-to-reach spot and place warning stickers on the unit so thieves know they're on camera. To illuminate the A/C at night, have one or more motion-activated outdoor lights installed too.

• Hide the unit from sight - Add shrubs, a hedge or a high fence around the outdoor unit to make it less conspicuous to thieves. If there's usually a lot of traffic on your street, leaving the unit out in plain sight can be an equally effective deterrent to thieves who don't want to be identified.

• Paint the coil with microdots - Brush-on microdot products carry hundreds of individual dots that are visible under magnification. Each dot contains a uniquely assigned code that's registered with a national database. When a thief sees the microdot warning sticker on your unit, they'll be inclined to move on rather than risk trying to sell traceable stolen copper.

To learn more ways to protect your A/C unit from theft, contact the HVAC experts at Air Assurance today. We've been serving Broken Arrow homeowners since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “GSPhotography/Shutterstock”

Air Conditioner Sounds You Don't Want to Hear

When an air conditioner is functioning correctly, it will make relatively little noise. However, air conditioners can develop problems over time as internal parts undergo wear and tear. Many of these problems are indicated by specific noises. Understanding what the different air conditioner sounds mean can help you to diagnose problems and seek help when necessary.

Here are some of the sounds that can tell you when your HVAC system needs to be serviced by a professional.

Screeching

If the blower motor screeches while it's operating, this may be due to a belt that's wearing out. Worn belts aren't expensive to replace, but if they wear out completely and break, the blower motor will be unable to function.

Thudding, Rattling and Clanging 

When you hear rattling, this usually means that a part within the system is coming loose. The problem should be repaired before the part comes all the way loose or breaks. If your system is producing a loud banging noise, it likely means a part has come loose or is broken. In either case, shut off the system and contact a professional.

Slapping 

A rapid slapping sound that occurs when the blower is on may be caused by something stuck in the blades. Alternatively, there could be something coming into contact with the blower while it's turning. It's possible that neither of these problems will cause your HVAC system to break down immediately, but they can create resistance and that may lead to the motor wearing out quickly.

Clicking

When your air conditioner is functioning normally, you can expect to hear clicking noises as it cycles on and off. These clicking noises come from the relays and controls. However, repeated clicking can be a symptom of a failing control or thermostat.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Christian Delbert/Shutterstock”

Be Thinking Now About Fall Maintenance

Summer days can be blisteringly hot in Broken Arrow, so why even think about fall maintenance on your HVAC system? Because, to recycle a few old chestnuts, there's no time like the present and time flies. Before you know it, chilly fall days have already arrived and your furnace may or may not be ready to efficiently supply heat against the chill. Not only that, but your A/C unit may be struggling to dispense cool air in order to combat summer heat and humidity. Act now by calling an HVAC-trained technician who can ready your furnace and check out your A/C so that both work at optimum efficiency.Time for a Tune-UpA qualified technician follows a checklist for fall maintenance on HVAC systems and knows what to tune up and what to change out. Things that need checking include:

• Properly functioning start-up and shut-down controls

• Air filters that may need cleaning or replacing

• Any obstructions in the condensate drain that can promote bacteria, mold and mildew growth

• Lubrication of moving parts to reduce friction and wear, and increase overall efficiency

• Performance and settings of thermostat, and possible upgrade to a programmable thermostat for ease and energy-saving factors

• Integrity of electrical connections and voltage measurements for all electrical parts and components; loose or faulty connections can be serious problems waiting to happen

• Heat exchangers and burners, fuel lines and connections thoroughly checked and maintained to avoid potential fire or health hazards (Burners and exchangers in either oil or gas furnaces often become fouled with dirt that interferes with proper burner operation.)

• A/C evaporator and condenser coils that may require cleaning, refrigerant level checks and ascertaining that all blower parts are in tip-top condition

The best time to prepare for fall is during the summer months, while there's still time for needed checks, maintenance and repairs on your Broken Arrow home's heating or A/C system. For more information or expert advice concerning a fall maintenance check-up on your HVAC unit or any other home-comfort issues, contact Air Assurance.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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A Whole-Home Approach: How HVAC Systems Affect One Another

Just like organs in the body, the HVAC systems in your home work together to do their jobs. To keep you comfortable year round in the Broken Arrow area's challenging continental climate, all your systems need to be in top form at all times.Know Your Systems' RolesHVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning While each of your HVAC systems has its own distinct role, those roles are interconnected.Heating -- A fuel-burning furnace heats air over a flame while a heat pump in heating mode uses refrigerant to absorb warmth from the outdoor air and move that warmth indoors. Both then move warm air into your duct system.Air conditioner -- Your air conditioner or heat pump in cooling mode use refrigerant to absorb heat from inside your home and move that heat outdoors. The resulting cooled air is moved into your ducts.Ventilation -- Your ventilation system consists primarily of your fan, air ducts, and the ducts' supply air registers and return air vents. The same fan and duct system is responsible for distributing both hot air from your furnace and cool air from your air conditioner throughout your home.Why the Connections MatterAny issue with your motor or duct system affects both your heating and cooling systems. For instance, skipping your springtime A/C tuneup could allow problems to develop with your ventilation system. Come winter, those problems will either cost you during your fall furnace tuneup or prevent your furnace from working efficiently.An improperly installed air conditioner can cause cold air to leak into your furnace in winter, increasing your heating load and raising your energy bills.If either your furnace or air conditioner is oversized for your home, you'll end up with uncomfortable temperature swings, excess component wear, poor dehumidification in summer, and needlessly high energy bills.If you expect all your HVAC systems to run reliably, you can't afford to favor one system and skimp on another.For help with the maintenance, repair or upgrade of your heating, cooling or ventilation system, contact us at Air Assurance anywhere in the Broken Arrow area.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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