Downtown Air and Heat Blog

Signs that You Need Air Conditioning Repair

July 18th, 2014

If you’re a busy homeowner in Orlando, it can be hard to find time to schedule air conditioning repair service. But in the middle of summer, a sudden breakdown would probably be much more of an inconvenience.

If you notice any of the following signs, make the time to call an air conditioning technician today to avoid problems later on.

  • Loud Noises: You expect to hear the whir of the outside fan, but if your air conditioner begins to make unexpected noises such as a banging, hissing, or grinding noise, you should shut off your AC and call an expert for repairs immediately to avoid any damage to your system.
  • Short Cycling: If your air conditioning system stops running before your home has reached the desired temperature, there may be any number of problems causing your air conditioner to short cycle. Short cycling can be caused by a refrigerant leak, ice on the coil, compressor damage, or an AC system that is oversized. Because of the large number of possibilities, you should always allow a professional to determine the correct source.
  • High Utility Bills: If your energy bills have been higher than usual recently, it may indicate a problem with your air conditioner. Over time, an air conditioner will lose some efficiency, but a dramatic increase should be cause for alarm. High energy bills can mean that a component of your air conditioner is dirty. You can try cleaning your air filters, but it may also indicate a dirty coil or leaky ductwork.
  • Loss of Cooling Capacity: If you notice that your air conditioner has lost some cooling power, it can be due to any number of issues. Your air conditioner may be low on refrigerant, you may have a dirty or frozen coil, or the thermostat may be faulty.

Anytime you notice something unusual with your AC system, contact Downtown Air & Heat for air conditioning repair in Orlando. Our experts are trained to identify the problem and help you determine the best course of action. If you need air conditioning repair, call us today!

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How to Help Your Air Conditioner Perform at its Best

July 8th, 2014

All air conditioners experience some wear and tear over time that will eventually cause decreased performance. But that doesn’t mean you can’t slow down this process. These simple steps may improve the performance of your air conditioning system and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Change or Replace air Filters

One way to help your air conditioner continue to perform at its best all summer long is changing or replacing air filters regularly. Clogged air filters obstruct airflow, which can cause a lot of further issues, such as a frozen evaporator coil. Debris buildup in your ducts caused by blocked filters may also cause decreased efficiency and performance. You should change or clean air filters about once a month, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Another way to keep your air conditioner in top shape is by scheduling regular maintenance. Even if your air conditioning system doesn’t seem to need repairs, you may want to have a technician look at your system during a routine maintenance visit. People who schedule maintenance once a year often have increased performance and decreased energy bills every month.

During maintenance, a technician will inspect your system, clean some of the parts, adjust refrigerant levels, and add lubricant to the motors, if necessary. A technician can let you know if any part of your AC is affecting performance and needs repair.

Upgrade to a Digital Thermostat

Another reason you may choose to call an air conditioning professional is if you are using an outdated thermostat. If you still set the temperature in your home with the dials of a manual thermostat, you may not quite get the cooling power you hope for. In this case, you can benefit from a digital, programmable thermostat with a clear display that allows you to set the AC to turn on and off at different times of the day. You may end up using your AC less often, resulting in less wear and, possibly, a longer lifespan for your system.

Downtown Air & Heat offers air conditioning services in Orlando including maintenance and thermostat upgrades. Call today!

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Leading the Way with Independence Days!

July 3rd, 2014

The term “Fourth of July” is the popular name for the U.S. federal holiday officially known as Independence Day. It isn’t surprising that we would come up with a different name from the official one, since “Independence Day” is one of the most common holiday names across the globe. Most of the nations in existence today won their independence from another power, whether through wars, treaties, or long transitions.

What might surprise many people is how old U.S. Independence Day actually is compared to the similar holidays of other nations. Although the U.S. is still considered a young nation, it was one of the first to make a full break for its colonial master with a new constitution. Most countries that celebrate a national Independence Day are commemorating events that occurred in the second half of the 20th century, when many older empires at last relinquished control over their colonies.

How substantial is the difference in time for the U.S.A. and the rest of the world? U.S. Independence Day celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1776, making our country unusual in that almost no existing nations celebrate an independence event from the eighteenth century.

In terms of age, there is only a tiny handful current countries that celebrate an independence day that occurred earlier than the United States. Switzerland celebrates its independence from the Holy Roman Empire of the Germans in 1291 with “Swiss National Day,” held every August 1—although this only gained status as a national holiday in 1994. Sweden Celebrates “National Day of Sweden” to commemorate events in 1523 and the election of King Gustav I during the War of Liberation against Christian II of Denmark and Norway. Romania comes almost a hundred years after U.S. Independence, with its 1877 freedom from Turkish rule.

The most recent Independence Days to come into existence are for Montenegro, which gained independence from Serbia in 2006 and celebrates the day on May 21, and South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and celebrates the day only a day after the U.S., on July 5.

Does anyone else celebrate a literal “Fourth of July,” an Independence Day that also falls on the fourth day of the seventh month? Yes: Abkhazia, a small Central Asian country that declared its independence from the Republic of Georgia in 1999 (although not all countries recognize it). Coming a day (like South Sudan) on July 5 is the independence of the small Atlantic island nation of Cape Verde, which became free from Portugal through signed agreement in 1975.

Everyone at Downtown Air & Heat hopes you and your family enjoy a vibrant Independence Day/Fourth of July this year!

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How Does Humidity Affect AC Performance?

June 26th, 2014

The comfortable range for humidity is 30%-60%; the average humidity levels in Orlando between June and August range from 61%-92%. Clearly, our air conditioners are a necessity.

Not only do our air conditioners cool us, they help remove the humidity, which is a big part of our heat here. Even though your AC system is designed to remove humidity as part of regular operation, there are times when the moisture can be excessive for your air conditioning and potentially affect its performance. This is when you want to call Downtown Air & Heat.

How Does Humidity Affect My AC?

There are several ways in which humidity can adversely affect your air conditioner:

  • More stress on your system – when there is excess moisture in the air, not only does your air conditioner have more moisture to remove, it also has more heat to fight. More humidity means your air conditioner has to work harder to cool the same way as when there’s less humidity. This can put more stress on your system, particularly if it hasn’t been properly maintained.
  • More problems for allergy sufferers – not only does pollen like to cling to humidity, too much moisture is one of the reasons dust mites, mildew, and mold flourish. By properly dehumidifying the air, you can help prevent allergens from hanging in your indoor air and developing in your home.
  • Less comfort indoors – the point of having an air conditioner is to feel comfortable during the hot months of the year. When too much humidity is present, it can make the cool air in your house feel cold and clammy. This kind of discomfort can be as uncomfortable as experiencing the heat, something no one wants from their AC.

The Best Way to Handle Humidity

One of the best tools available for handling the extra humidity that comes with the Orlando heat is a whole-home dehumidifier. Whole-home dehumidifiers help remove the extra humidity in the air, giving your air conditioner the breathing room to operate optimally, even during long periods of excessive warmth. Let Downtown Air & Heat help you lift the weight of the humidity this summer with a whole-home dehumidifier for your air conditioning system. Call us today and schedule air conditioning service in Orlando with one of our experts.

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Avoiding the Need For Air Conditioning Repairs

June 19th, 2014

The last thing anyone wants to deal with during a hot summer in Orlando is an air conditioning repair. Over the years, our Downtown Air & Heating customers have asked our experts if there are ways to help prevent repair needs from developing, and the answer is yes, there are ways to help curb the need for air conditioning repair to your system. Some repairs are not avoidable, but by taking certain steps we’ll outline below, you can decrease both the need for repairs and the size of the repairs to your air conditioning system.

Don’t Ignore Signs of Problems

Strange sounds, unfamiliar smells and a subpar performance can all point to problems that developing with your air conditioner – don’t ignore them. While your air conditioner may still be running, it may not be running well, and there is a limited amount of time your AC can run under stressful conditions. As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so if something seems even a little bit off, call your Downtown Air & Heat technician to take a look.

Change/Clean Filters Regularly

Your air filter can become clogged with dust and dirt. When the filter becomes too clogged it can restrict airflow, which can lead to multiple problems with your system. By changing the air filter every 1-3 months, you can avoid the problems that develop from a dirty air filter.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to stave off repairs and keep your air conditioner running optimally. With bi-annual maintenance, your system is thoroughly inspected for any issues, cleaned, and adjusted and/or repaired as needed. Scheduling bi-annual maintenance means the small things, like worn fan belts and loose screws, are taken care of before they can lead to bigger, and potentially more expensive, repairs.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

While a specialist should clean the interior components of your outdoor unit, you can help with maintenance by cleaning up any yard debris from the area around the outdoor unit, and making sure there is no overgrowth from trees or shrubs encroaching on the space.

Think You May Have an Issue?

Even if you aren’t sure if something is going on, it’s better to get ahead of your repairs than to wait and see. Get ahead of any potential issues – give Downtown Air & Heating a call and schedule air conditioning repair in Orlando today.

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What Can I Expect When Installing a New Air Conditioner?

June 16th, 2014

Modern air conditioners have long service lifespans. You probably haven’t needed to install a new air conditioning system in your home more than once before, if at all. So when you need to arrange to replace an older AC, you probably won’t be very familiar with the process or know what to expect. We’ll give you an idea of what the installation work involves.

To help smooth out the process and take away most of the headaches, contact Downtown Air & Heat to arrange for air conditioning installation in Orlando, FL. We have a NATE-certified team to make sure that the work is preformed professionally and accurately. At the conclusion you will have a system in your house that will last you for many more years… long enough that when you need to replace it, you once again will have to read over reminders about how the installation process goes!

What Happens During AC Installation

The first step in new air conditioning installation is to call for HVAC professionals: do not take this on as a “do-it-yourself” project or hand it off to amateurs.

The professional installers will come to your home to ascertain its cooling needs and power supply so they can find the right unit to go with it. Part of this selection process involves “sizing” the new system so that its cooling load matches your house: too large or too small will mean energy drain and a system with an abbreviated lifespan.

Once these preliminaries are completed, the actual physical installation requires less than a day (in most cases). The arduous part of the installing involves removing the current system and disposing of it. Once the old air conditioner is out of the way, the rest of the work will move forward rapidly. The installers will place and secure the outdoor unit, and then do the same for the indoor unit. They will cut and resize the ductwork that connects to the indoor cabinet so it fits perfectly, connect the ventilation system to the indoor unit, and then hook the system into the house’s power supply.

The last step that the installers will take is to look over the refrigerant lines, power lines, and connections to make sure that everything links up. They perform electrical and airflow tests to see that the system is working as it should. Quality professionals will not consider the job finished until they know you will be fully satisfied with the work and can start enjoying your new cooling right away.

We take pride in the work we perform at Downtown Air & Heat when it comes to air conditioning installation in Orlando, FL. Contact us when you are ready to have your first AC replacement in many years—we’ll make the process easy for you.

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Air Conditioning Repairs: How Often Is Too Often?

June 5th, 2014

It’s a hard question to decide upon: when are you repairing your air conditioner too much? While there is no simple answer for this, there are a few factors to consider which can help you to decide if your air conditioning repair means it’s time for a replacement:

Have You Scheduled Bi-Annual Maintenance?

Bi-annual maintenance helps prolong the life of your air conditioner, increase efficiency and prevent repairs. Have you been conducting regular maintenance on your air conditioner and still find yourself needing serious repairs? If so, it may be time to sit down with a trained expert to see if it’s time to replace your current AC.

Are the Repairs Becoming Costly?

Small repairs, such as replacing worn fan belts or repairing frayed wiring, are not repairs that will hit your wallet hard. But big repairs, like a burned-out fan motor or finding a refrigerant leak, can really start to add up. Have you spent so much on repairs in the last 2-3 cooling seasons that you could have purchased a new air conditioner for the same amount of money? Reviewing your repair costs with a professional can help you determine if purchasing a new air conditioner could be better for your wallet.

Is Your Current Air Conditioner Cooling Adequately?

As air conditioners age, their ability to cool your home can become an issue. Some air conditioners can no longer keep up with the need to cool; others cool unevenly, producing various hot and cold spots throughout your indoor space. In either case, the people in your home will experience discomfort, which defeats the purpose of having an air conditioner in the first place.

Is Your Air Conditioner 8+ Years Old?

In 2006, federal laws changed to mandate that, moving forward, air conditioners needed to be manufactured at a higher SEER number, which is 13; before this change, the minimum SEER number was 10. This means that if you purchased your air conditioner before 2006, your system may not be as efficient as current models. In addition, your air conditioner is aging. Both of these factors can contribute to higher monthly utility bills.

Before Replacing Your AC, Speak to a Professional

Many facts and figures go into the purchase of a new air conditioner, which is why it’s important to consult with an expert before embarking on a new purchase. Repair bills can be a sign that it’s time to replace your air conditioner, but it’s just one of several. Schedule an appointment with your Downtown Air & Heat specialist today to discuss the impact of your air conditioning repair in Orlando.

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Home Improvements to Make Before Air Conditioning Installation

June 5th, 2014

You’ve finally decided to replace your aging air conditioning system for a new one with increased performance and efficiency. This is a big decision, but if you have the right professional installers working with you, the process should go smoothly and leave you with an AC that works ideally and meets your comfort needs.

However, there are a few improvements around your home you should consider having completed before your new air conditioning installation in Orlando, FL. These improvements will help you get the most effective and efficient cooling from your new system, letting you take advantage of its superior features and performance. When you’re ready for installation, contact Downtown Air & Heat and well will help you receive the best possible work for your future comfort.

Ductwork repairs and sealing

One of the major troubles that air conditioners (as well as forced-air heaters) can face is from leaky ductwork. If you have an older ventilation system, it make have gaps and breaks along it that will negatively affect the performance of your new AC, causing it to lose air pressure and sending contaminating dust into your indoor air. Call on duct repair experts to examine the ductwork and perform the necessary sealing work to make sure that you have airtight ventilation shafts.

Window caulking and weather stripping around doors

Windows with space around them where hot air can enter your home will make the interior of your house far hotter than it should be, and that will make the air conditioner’s job much harder. Caulking the windows will keep a better heat seal. As for doors to the outside, place weather stripping around them to block additional external heat from finding ways inside.

Insulation improvements (especially in the attic!)

People often don’t realize that insulation serves to keep a home cool as well as warm. If your home has too many air leaks due to poor or deteriorating insulation, additional heat will infiltrate your home and overstress your new AC. The attic is the most important place to seal up, since during the summer the temperature in the attic can sometimes climb to 130°F! As this excess heat seeps down into your home, it could raise the indoor temperature more than 10°F, and you will need to run the AC much longer to overcome it. Make sure you have your insulation in good shape to defend against outdoor summer heat.

Call Downtown Air & Heat today to get started with the first task: duct repairs. We can seal and repair all types of ductwork so your new air conditioner will have healthy “breathing” passages. When you are ready for your full air conditioning installation in Orlando, FL, you can rely on our experienced technicians to perform an excellent job that will keep you cool for many Florida summers to come.

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Consider a Heat Pump When Installing a New Air Conditioner

May 23rd, 2014

When it’s time to have a new air conditioning installation in Winter Garden, FL, you don’t actually have to put in a new AC. We don’t mean you should go without electro-mechanical cooling for the summer. You can have the same quality of cool air vented through your home, except instead of coming from a standard air conditioning system, a heat pump will take care of the job.

The name “heat” may sound like this is a bad choice for summer weather. But the name heat pump only describes the action of these appliances: they pump heat from one location to another. Air conditioners do the same job, moving heat from indoors to the outdoors. Heat pump take it to the next step, since they can also move heat from the outdoors to the indoors. In other words, a heat pump is an air conditioner that can change the direction it operates, working as both a cooling and heating system.

Here are some of the reasons you should put a heat pump on your list of possible replacements for your old air conditioner. To learn more, contact Downtown Air & Heat today and speak to our AC specialists.

Reasons a heat pump might your best choice for comfort

  • You won’t sacrifice cooling: Although a heat pump does two jobs, that doesn’t lessen the effectiveness of the cooling side. A heat pump works as well in cooling mode as an air conditioner of comparable size. You won’t experience a drop in your comfort during the summer heat if you have the right size heat pump installed.
  • You’ll have effective heating: One of the few drawbacks of heat pumps is that they lose efficiency in heating mode if the temperature outdoor drops too low (below freezing). Heat pumps must absorb outdoor heat, and this becomes difficult in extreme cold weather. However, this is almost never a problem in Florida, so you can expect to eliminate your old heating system as well as your current air conditioning system when you install a heat pump.
  • You’ll have lower heating bills: You can expect to pay about the same for your cooling as you would with an AC. With heating, however, you will see around a 30% savings with a heat pump compared to systems like gas and electric furnaces, as studied have demonstrated. The secret of the efficiency of a heat pump is that is doesn’t expend energy to burn fuel in order to heat up the air. It uses electricity to run mechanical parts that move heat, and this requires less power.

Reasons you might not want a heat pump

The truth of the situation is that no home comfort system is perfect for every home. Your home may get by with its current AC/heater set up, and the extra expense of a heat pump won’t benefit you that much.

To find out if your home is suited for a heat pump, call Downtown Air & Heat today for an appointment. We will find you the ideal air conditioning installation in Winter Garden, FL.

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The Benefits of Installing a High-Efficiency AC

May 23rd, 2014

The term “high efficiency” automatically makes an appliance sound like a good option. When it comes to air conditioning systems—appliances that are among the most energy-demanding in a home—it sounds even better to opt for a high-efficiency model.

Although there are some cautions you need to take when it comes to choosing a high-efficiency AC—they aren’t always the best choice—you can eliminate most of the guesswork with the assistance of skilled HVAC technicians. When you’re ready for an air conditioning system replacement in Orlando, FL, call Downtown Air & Heat. We install a variety of high-efficiency ACs and will help you find the right one to keep you cool for many Florida summers to come.

Reasons High-Efficiency Air Conditioners Are Beneficial

  • Energy Savings: The main reason that homeowners investigate installing high-efficiency air conditioning in the first place is to save money on utility bills while still receiving the amount of cooling they need. Where a standard AC must have a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) of at least 14.5 to qualify for the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR label, high-efficiency systems score much higher, sometimes with SEER in the low 20s. That’s a huge jump from 14.5, meaning you can expect to pay a third less for the electricity necessary to cool your home during the summer.
  • More Features: The technology of high-efficiency systems also means they have advanced features on them for superior performance. Most of these ACs come with variable speed air handlers and two-stage compressors to help them achieve better energy efficiency; but they also make the system better at cooling down a home. You’ll have faster cooling power and a more even temperature distribution with a high-efficiency air conditioner.
  • Increased Lifespan: Going hand-in-hand with better performance and efficient operation is reduced wear and tear on the unit. A high-efficiency air conditioner experiences less stress because it will not need to turn on and off as often. This means fewer repairs and a generally longer life for the unit.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

The only issue that high-efficiency air conditioners can present for homeowners is the upfront installation cost. As a rule of thumb, the higher a system’s SEER, the higher its price tag. If a high-efficiency AC will not offer a home significantly improved comfort and savings, then a standard system may be the optimal choice.

The best way to find out how well a high-efficiency AC will work for your home is to call in skilled professionals. Downtown Air & Heat handles a variety of types of air conditioning system installation in Orlando, FL, and we will pinpoint the system that will bring you all the advantages you need at a price that suits your budget.

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