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How Regular AC Maintenance Can Lead to Energy Efficiency

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Maintaining your air conditioning system is not only essential for ensuring your comfort during hot summer months but also plays a significant role in enhancing energy efficiency. Regular maintenance of your AC unit can help in optimizing its performance, reducing energy consumption, and extending its lifespan. In this blog, we will explore the importance of regular AC maintenance in promoting energy efficiency and providing you with cost savings in the long run.

Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system offers several benefits, including improved energy efficiency. When your AC unit is well-maintained, it operates more efficiently, requiring less energy to cool your home. This means that you can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment without the high energy bills that come with an inefficient system.

In addition to energy efficiency, regular AC maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and breakdowns. By addressing minor issues early on, you can avoid major malfunctions that could leave you without air conditioning during the peak of summer. This not only saves you money on repair costs but also ensures that your AC system operates at its best, providing you with reliable cooling throughout the season.

Key Maintenance Tasks for Energy Efficiency

To enhance energy efficiency and maximize the performance of your air conditioning system, there are several key maintenance tasks that you should perform regularly. These tasks can help ensure that your AC unit operates efficiently, reduces energy consumption, and saves you money on utility bills. Here are some essential maintenance tasks for promoting energy efficiency:

1. Air Filter Replacement: One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is regularly replacing the air filter in your AC unit. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder to cool your home. By replacing the air filter every 1-3 months, you can improve airflow, reduce energy consumption, and promote energy efficiency.

2. Coil Cleaning: Another important maintenance task is cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils in your AC unit. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt and debris, reducing their ability to transfer heat efficiently. By cleaning the coils annually, you can improve heat transfer, increase energy efficiency, and prevent system breakdowns.

3. Refrigerant Levels Check: Checking and maintaining proper refrigerant levels is essential for the efficient operation of your air conditioning system. Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC unit to work harder, increasing energy consumption and potentially damaging the compressor. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct refrigerant levels can help optimize system performance and energy efficiency.

4. Duct Inspection: Inspecting and sealing leaks in your ductwork is another important maintenance task for improving energy efficiency. Leaky ducts can allow cool air to escape, reducing the efficiency of your AC system and increasing energy consumption. By sealing duct leaks, you can improve airflow, reduce energy wastage, and enhance overall energy efficiency.

5. Thermostat Calibration: Calibrating your thermostat regularly ensures that your AC system operates as efficiently as possible. A properly calibrated thermostat helps maintain consistent temperatures and prevents your system from overworking or running unnecessarily. By adjusting the thermostat settings and scheduling regular temperature checks, you can optimize your AC system’s performance and energy efficiency.

Long-Term Benefits of Energy Efficiency

Investing in regular AC maintenance to promote energy efficiency can provide several long-term benefits for homeowners. By maintaining your AC unit properly, you can extend its lifespan, reduce the risk of costly repairs, and ensure that it operates efficiently for years to come. Additionally, energy-efficient systems consume less energy, leading to lower utility bills and cost savings over time.

Energy-efficient air conditioning systems also have a positive impact on the environment by reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. By minimizing your home’s energy usage, you can lower your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Choosing energy-efficient appliances and practices not only benefits your wallet but also helps protect the planet for future generations.

Summary

Regular AC maintenance plays a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and providing homeowners with cost savings in the long run. By performing key maintenance tasks such as air filter replacement, coil cleaning, refrigerant level checks, duct inspection, and thermostat calibration, you can optimize your air conditioning system’s performance and promote energy efficiency.

Need HVAC Services in St. Louis, MO?

Keep cool or stay warm with Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Since 1999, Ashley Brothers have been providing residential and commercial services to the St. Louis and Jefferson County area. We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair, and furnace cleaning. Craftsmanship is important, equipment choice is too. We work with only top brands like Amana, Goodman, York, and McLain. It is understandable that replacing or upgrading your equipment can be daunting. Ask us about financing. We repair all heating and cooling equipment brands. Heating and cooling repairs can happen at random, take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service. Call us today about your concerns.

Reasons Your Furnace is Still Running After Reaching the Set Temperature

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During the cold winter months, we rely on our furnaces to keep our homes warm and comfortable. However, there may be times when we notice that our furnace continues to run even after it has reached the set temperature. This can be a cause for concern, as it may indicate that there is an underlying issue with your heating system. In this blog post, we will explore some common reasons why your furnace may still be running after reaching the set temperature.

1. Incorrect Thermostat Settings:

One of the most common reasons why your furnace is still running could be due to incorrect thermostat settings. Ensure that your thermostat is set to the desired temperature and that it is not set to the “continuous” or “fan” mode. In these modes, the fan or heating system will continue to run regardless of the actual temperature in your home. Double-checking your thermostat settings can help resolve this issue.

2. Dirty Air Filters:

Another common culprit for a furnace that keeps running is dirty air filters. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust, debris, and other particles, inhibiting proper airflow. When the airflow is restricted, it can take longer for your furnace to reach the set temperature, causing it to continue running. Regularly changing or cleaning your air filters can help prevent this from happening and also improve the overall efficiency of your furnace.

3. Thermostat Placement:

The placement of your thermostat can also contribute to your furnace running longer than necessary. If your thermostat is located near a window, vent, or any other source of drafts, it may receive inaccurate temperature readings. This can trick your furnace into thinking that the temperature has not yet reached the desired level, causing it to keep running. Consider relocating your thermostat to a more central area in your home to avoid such issues.

4. Leaky Ductwork:

Leaky ductwork can lead to warm air escaping before it reaches the desired areas of your home. When this happens, your furnace will continue to run in an attempt to compensate for the lost heat. Sealing any leaks in your ductwork can help resolve this issue and improve the efficiency of your furnace.

5. Malfunctioning Thermostat:

If you have ruled out the other common causes and your furnace still runs continuously, it is possible that your thermostat is malfunctioning. A faulty thermostat may not accurately measure the temperature or send the correct signals to your heating system, causing it to run longer than necessary. If you suspect a malfunctioning thermostat, it is advisable to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and replace the thermostat if needed.

6. Oversized Furnace:

An improperly sized furnace can also be a reason why it continues to run after reaching the set temperature. A furnace that is too large for your home will heat it quickly, but it may shut off before the whole space reaches the desired temperature. As a result, the furnace will turn back on soon after, leading to constant cycling. If you suspect that your furnace is oversized, consult a professional to evaluate your heating needs and recommend the appropriate furnace size.

Summary

There can be various reasons why your furnace is still running after reaching the set temperature. Checking your thermostat settings, regularly changing air filters, ensuring the proper placement of the thermostat, sealing leaky ductwork, and addressing any thermostat malfunctions are all important steps in troubleshooting this issue. It is also worth considering the size of your furnace to ensure it is appropriate for your home’s heating needs. If you are unsure or unable to identify and address the problem, it is always best to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve the issue to ensure the optimal performance of your furnace.

Need HVAC Services in St. Louis, MO?

Keep cool or stay warm with Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Since 1999, Ashley Brothers have been providing residential and commercial services to the St. Louis and Jefferson County area. We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair, and furnace cleaning. Craftsmanship is important, equipment choice is too. We work with only top brands like Amana, Goodman, York, and McLain. It is understandable that replacing or upgrading your equipment can be daunting. Ask us about financing. We repair all heating and cooling equipment brands. Heating and cooling repairs can happen at random, take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service. Call us today about your concerns.

How To Clean A Furnace

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How To Clean A Furnace

If you are having trouble with a furnace in your home, there is a good chance it needs a deep cleaning. A thorough cleaning will remove any dust, dirt, and debris that has built up in your ducts. It also improves the air quality and efficiency of your furnace, and reduces the need for future heating repairs. It will keep your family more comfortable and help you save money in the long run.

Clean the Filter

A clogged filter can decrease the efficiency of your furnace and lead to premature system failure. A dirty filter can also affect the quality of your air and increase energy costs. Inspecting and changing your filter on a regular basis helps maintain the health of your home and lowers your utility bills. Typically, it’s recommended to clean your filter every 30-90 days. The type of filter you have will determine when it needs to be cleaned and replaced. There are several types, including mechanical and electrostatic filters. If you’re unsure what kind your furnace has, check with the manufacturer or contact your heating and cooling company for assistance. Most furnaces have a filter that is housed in a door on the intake side of the unit, but some have a top and bottom door.

Clean The Blower

The blower of your furnace is an important part that needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. If you clean it, your furnace will operate more efficiently and last longer. A clogged blower wheel requires more current from the motor, making it less efficient. It also makes the heat exchanger run hotter, which shortens its lifespan. If the blower wheel has been clogged for a long time, it may need to be removed and cleaned by a professional. This can be a difficult task that is best left to an HVAC service expert.

Clean The Heat Exchange

A dirty exchanger can reduce your energy efficiency and raise your heating costs. It can also be dangerous, as it can release fumes that are harmful to your family and home environment. The best way to clean your furnace is to call in a professional HVAC technician. This is especially true if your exchanger isn’t working properly or needs repair. To clean your furnace heat exchanger, start by removing it from the front of the unit and disconnecting it from electricity. You will need a pipe brush and a cleaning solution to complete the job.

Clean The Combustion Chamber

Your furnace’s combustion chamber contains the flames and burners that heat your home. Over time, soot can build up in this area. If left untreated, the soot can corrode the walls of the chamber and cause carbon monoxide to leak into your home. To avoid this, the combustion chamber needs to be carefully cleaned on a regular basis. Contact us today to learn more!

Welcome to Our Blog

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Welcome to our blog. We are glad you found your way here. You will find interesting and valuable articles pertaining to our business and the services we offer. Continue to come back as our blog will be coming soon with updated articles.

Follow These Tips To Prepare Your Furnace and AC for the Winter

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When it’s that time of year again — when the leaves change color and the days get shorter — you know winter is just around the corner. This means it’s time to start thinking about preparations for the cold weather ahead. One of the most important things to take care of is your home heating and cooling system. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to maintain your furnace and prepare AC unit for winter.

1. Change the Filter

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your furnace for winter is to change the filter. A dirty filter will not only make your furnace work harder, but it can also lead to health problems for you and your family. Be sure to check and change the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a reusable filter, simply rinse it off with water and let it dry completely before putting it back in the furnace. If you have a disposable filter, replace it with a new one of the same size and type.

Most filters should be changed every three months, but if you live in an area with a lot of dust or pet hair, you may need to change it more often. Another important tip is to make sure a professional properly services your furnace before winter starts. This will help ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and safely. When the cold weather hits, you’ll be glad you took the time.

2. Inspect the Furnace

If you have a gas furnace, it’s important to get it inspected by a professional every year. This is because there is the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning if there are any leaks in the system. If you have an electric furnace, you don’t need to get it professionally inspected, but you should still take a look at it yourself to make sure everything looks clean and in good working order.

Dust around the furnace, as this can be a fire hazard. Also, check the pilot light to make sure it’s still lit. If you have any doubts about anything, it’s always better to call a professional for an inspection.

3. Schedule a Tune-Up

Just like your car, your furnace or AC unit benefits from a tune-up before the winter season. All the moving parts need to be lubricated and checked for any potential issues. A professional HVAC technician will also clean out any dirt and debris that may have accumulated over the summer months. This tune-up will help your system run more efficiently and prevent any breakdowns during the winter.

4. Check the Thermostat

Your thermostat controls the temperature in your home, so it’s important to ensure it’s working properly. Test it by setting the temperature lower than the current room temperature and see if the furnace turns on. If not, there may be an issue with the thermostat that needs to be addressed.

5. Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit

If you have a central air conditioner, the outdoor unit must be clear of debris or obstructions. This includes things like leaves, branches, and other yard waste. If the unit is obstructed, it won’t be able to work properly and could overheat. Furthermore, if snow or ice accumulates on the unit, it’s important to remove it so the unit can function properly.

How To Prepare Furnace for Winter

By following these tips, you can be sure that your furnace and AC are ready for the winter season. This will help you stay comfortable all winter long and avoid any costly repairs. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact a professional HVAC technician for help. Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling is always here to help! Give us a call today. Stay warm this winter.