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4 Reasons to Replace Your HVAC Filter Regularly

Replace Your HVAC Filter

4 Risks to Your Help if You Don’t Replace Your HVAC Filter Regularly

After years of experience and hundreds of residential HVAC repair calls, we can say the top reason for making HVAC repair calls is poor maintenance demonstrated by dirty air filters. This is always surprising, since changing an air filter is inexpensive and very easy. A dirty air filter leads to serious problems; here are four of the most significant difficulties caused by a dirty air filter.

Replace Your HVAC Filter Reason 1: Poor Indoor Air Quality

The reason the air filter is in place is to remove airborne particles; dust, pet hair, dander, mold, mildew spores, and pollen collect on the folds of the air filter. Once the particles are removed, they will no longer circulate with every air conditioning cycle. Eventually, the surface of the filter will be completely covered by the particles. When the surface is covered, small amounts of dust will find a way around the filter, coating vital electrical parts. It also reenters your home. You will notice it as:

  • An increase of allergens irritating eyes, noses, and throats of family members and
  • The layer of dust on surfaces increases
  • Can you locate the air filter on your air conditioner?

Replace Your HVAC Filter Reason 2: Impaired Air Conditioning Function

Your air conditioner moves the entire volume of your house every few minutes, and when the air filter becomes severely clogged, it restricts the airflow. This causes a few internal problems.

  • The blower motor works harder to try to move air. Since cool air is not moving into the house, this causes the thermostat to call for more cool air. If the cycle runs long enough, the blower motor will overheat and shut off.
  • The evaporator coil receives super-cooled refrigerant gas which cools the air and condenses the excess humidity from the air. When the air is not moving fast enough through the cooling chamber, the humidity freezes onto the coil. The air conditioning function grinds to a near stop.
  • Have you checked your air filter yet?

Replace Your HVAC Filter Reason 3: Repair and Replacement

If a dirty air filter is still neglected, the stress leads to damage and damage will lead to failure. The stress on the blower motor and evaporator coil, along with the collection of dust inside the air conditioner cabinet will stress electrical components, such as switches and capacitors. While a technician can replace these parts, the stress may remain on surviving components.

These are serious troubles caused by a dirty air filter. Manufacturers, technicians, and even the Department of Energy acknowledge that poor maintenance, typified by a dirty air filter, will shorten the useful life of your air conditioner. The cost of replacing your HVAC system is staggering compared to the cost of regularly replacing the air filter. The normal life span for an HVAC is typically 20 or more; poor maintenance can reduce the life span by 5 years or more.

When was the last time you replaced your air filter?

Replace Your HVAC Filter Reason 4: Low Efficiency—High Utility Cost

When you understand how a dirty air filter is adding stress to your air conditioner, it will not surprise you to know a stressed air conditioner costs more to run. This stress will lead to a noticeable increase in the energy needed to run the system. The increase is gradual, so it is hard to measure. A new HVAC system (bringing new, more efficient technology) will heat and cool better, using about 30% less energy than the old system.

Air filters are readily available from hardware and home improvements stores. They are available in a variety of sizes and are rated according to the size of openings in the filter. Filters should be changed at least every 3 months—more if you deem it necessary. Plan to change your air filter regularly!

Need help on how to Replace Your HVAC Filter!

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Air Conditioner lifespan, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC System Maintenance information page.

Replace Your HVAC Filter

 

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6 Tips to Cut HVAC Bills This Summer

6 Tips to Cut HVAC Bills This Summer

Cut HVAC Bills This Summer with These 6 Tips

As hot weather approaches, the cooling season will begin; for months your family will rely on the air conditioner to escape the summer heat and humidity. Your air conditioner will do a good job for months on end, cooling the air and removing humidity, the jobs it was designed to do. However, the air conditioner is not the only source of summertime comfort. Here are a few things you can do to enhance the work your air conditioner is doing and cut HVAC bills.

  1. Make sure your attic is fully insulated to cut HVAC bills. When your home was built, the contractor was required to meet the building code during an inspection. Over time, the insulation can settle, shift, or be compressed by attic storage. Check to make sure the settled insulation is at least 10” to 12” deep.

Why is attic insulation important to air conditioning? During the winter, 80% of heat loss goes right through the ceiling. But during the summer, the hottest space in your home is the attic. Insulation creates a barrier, preventing heat from radiating down through the ceiling. This definitely affects the comfort of your home, since a good AC has a hard time making up for poor insulation.

  1. Cover and uncover windows to your advantage. During the winter months, we all long for the warm, sunshiny days of spring and summer. When you consider that windows are a poor insulator and 76% of sunshine that enters your home turns to heat1, window treatments are a chief comfort factor for your home during the cooling season.

Be sure to close blinds or drapes on the south and west faces of your home to block excess sunlight during the hot part of the day—generally from 10 am to at least 4 pm–but you will know this time for your home. Keeping harsh rays out during the hottest part of the day will add to the comfort level all day long.

  1. Fans and air conditioning complement each other. Do not misunderstand, a fan will not cool the air. That is the job of the air conditioner. Refrigerant gases use compression/decompression to create cool air and remove excess moisture from the air. A ceiling or floor fan cannot do the same thing. But they can make your home more comfortable.

Moving air makes us feel cooler. It works in two ways:

  • Moving air increases the rate of evaporation. We sweat, bring body moisture to the surface of our skin. The moisture is the same temperature as our body and evaporation of sweat helps to cool our skin temperature.
  • Moving air also enhances the rate of convection. Hot air in direct contact with our skin is moved away by the moving air.

Neither of these processes cools the air, but moving air makes our body more comfortable by making us “feel cooler.”

  1. Upgrade incandescent light bulbs. Old-style filament incandescent lightbulbs produce a tremendous amount of heat along with lighting a space. In fact, 95% of the 100 watts consumed by an incandescent lightbulb turns to heat. Multiply that by the number of bulbs and it adds significantly to the heat load your AC is trying to overcome. This move can add to the comfort level during extremely hot days.
  2. Control the moisture created by normal activities with exhaust fans. Both cooking and bathing can release a lot of moisture inside the house. High humidity leaves skin and surfaces feeling “sticky,” so remove the steam produced while showering or boiling to the outdoors. Keep the bathroom door closed with the fan on for about 10 minutes following showers for best results.

Check the dryer exhaust hose as well. A loose-fitting or leaking hose will regularly introduce excess moisture into the home. It will also add lint as airborne particles, dusting the entire home, clogging the air filter, and potentially creating a fire hazard.

  1. Prepare for appliance use to maximize comfort.
  • Avoid baking during the summer months. Prepare meals using stovetop or countertop appliances, since these tend to produce less heat or heat smaller spaces to cook.
  • Schedule laundry use during the coolest part of the day. This reduces peak-time energy use, which saves money. It also keeps the home a little more comfortable all day long.

Need tips to Cut HVAC bills this summer, we can help!

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Air Conditioner lifespan, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC System Maintenance information page.

6 Tips to Cut HVAC Bills This Summer

 

1 https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings

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Air Conditioner Lifespan Explained

Air Conditioner Lifespan Explained

How Long Will My Air Conditioner Last?

Air conditioning was invented about 1900, but they were not installed in single-family residences as standard construction practice until 1960. Since that time, the comfort and safety they provide make air conditioning almost indispensable to our lives. Imagine spending a few days or weeks during the hot summer without it! How healthy is your AC system? Your air conditioner system is a complex mechanical system, comprised of:

  • a closed gas system that endures extreme pressure,
  • a variable-speed blower moving the entire volume of air in your house every few minutes,
  • advanced sensors, switches and
  • a computer interface

A well-maintained AC system will normally weather at least 20 summers, but there are no guarantees. Here are some “early warning signs” that your AC is nearing the end.

  • Frequent Repairs. The recommended practice to lengthen the useful life of your AC is to schedule annual preventative maintenance. When your HVAC professional begins to call for repairs, that is worth noting. When your AC stops working when you need it most, this is an early warning sign. Frequent repairs are a clear indication that the end is near.
  • Higher Bills. An aging AC system will need to work harder to keep your home cool. Aging components, stressing to keep up, spread the stress to other components. Harder work requires more energy and will lead to increased utility bills. At the hottest point of the day, your AC will run longer and the comfort level in your home will also suffer.
  • Unusual Noises. The air conditioner will make noise; it becomes background noise to our lives. Like an aging vehicle, your aging AC system will get noisier; this is also an early warning sign. Listen for these
    • An aging compressor may begin to hum or make a loud whirring sound. The compressor is essential for cooling and very expensive to replace.
    • An aging blower motor may begin to screech or make a grinding noise as the motor bear begins to fail.
    • Aging switches or electrical sensors will make clicking noises shortly before they cease working.
    • It is not uncommon for ducts to make popping noises shortly after a cooling cycle. However, if the noise changes to a rattle or banging noise, it may indicate a new problem with your ductwork.

The time will come when your AC system will need to be replaced. When your air conditioner begins to give “early warning signs,” call Mullinix AC.

Have Commercial Air Conditioner lifespan questions?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Air Conditioner lifespan, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC System Maintenance information page.

Air Conditioner Lifespan Explained

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8 Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance

8 Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

It may be chilly now, but warm weather is right around the corner. Air conditioning (AC) is an essential service for you your office, retail space, or restaurant. The AC keeps your facility at an optimal temperature for doing business no matter what your business is; guests and staff “expect” air conditioning during hot weather. In addition to keeping people comfortable, the AC also ensures good, clean air is always moving and reduces humidity to an acceptable level.

Air conditioning equipment consists of precisely tuned mechanical components that require professional upkeep; most manufacturer warranties require annual maintenance. An annual preventative maintenance visit has tremendous advantages for commercial ventures:

  1. A failed AC in July is incredibly inconvenient. It is terribly distracting for staff and employees. It will discourage business and ruin your schedule. Depending upon your type of business, it might shut you down until repairs can be made. Failing to maintain your AC often has a negative effect on profitability.
  2. Since many commercial facility managers put off scheduled maintenance, repair calls increase during the peak of the cooling season. Expect delays! In addition, since the nation is experiencing supply-chain delays, the part or component needed for the repair might not be readily available.
  3. Many AC problems are incremental and are not easily noticed. Failure is often the result of minor problems compounding over time because they go unnoticed. By scheduling annual visits, small problems are solved before they become large problems.
  4. If an AC system is developing minor problems, putting the system under stress—say an extended heatwave—can lead to those minor problems causing failure in the most inopportune time.
  5. When maintenance visits are scheduled in the offseason, preferably the Spring of the year, the AC system is tuned and prepared for the peak cooling season. Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance professionals can provide better service during off-peak months, compared to making emergency calls.
  6. Well-maintained Commercial Air Conditioning systems are cleaner and run more efficiently. Component parts run under less stress and take less energy to function. This reduces monthly utility bills and is also good for the environment.
  7. Since well-maintained AC components function under less stress, they tend to last longer.
  8. Keeping your AC maintained improves the indoor air quality in your facility—healthier air for everyone that enters.

Do not wait for problems to develop with your Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance, because they tend to happen when you are not expecting them and can ruin your day.

Have Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance questions?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC System Maintenance information page.

Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance

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HVAC 101: 8 Things You Need to Know About Your HVAC System

HVAC System HVAC 101

HVAC System HVAC 101

Owning a home can be a daunting task. There is so much to know and so much to care for. One of the most complex parts of your home is the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. You know the name describes its function and how to make them work, but perhaps very little more.

HVAC systems are intricate and need maintenance. You have heard that neglecting maintenance can be expensive. You really need to know more about this HVAC! This article will give you the basics about your system’s intricate parts and how they work together to make your home comfortable.

Identifying HVAC System Components

Two major HVAC components are connected tubing and wires.

  • The component on the inside of the house is the furnace. You might find it in a basement, crawlspace, attic, or in a mechanical closet.
    • The furnace includes a heating element: electricity or natural gas are usually the heat source. The element will have a boxy surround, a heat exchanger, to transfer the heat from the element to the air.
    • The heated air is moved from the heat exchanger throughout the house with a blower motor. The air moves through a network of ducts to every room in the house.
    • You will also find the evaporator coil in this unit. Expect it to be composed of copper tubes, perhaps in a V or A shape. The box surrounding the coil functions as cool air exchange and the same blower motor moves cold air through the network of ducts.
  • The component on the outside of the house is the air conditioning compressor and condenser. While the furnace uses a heat source, the air conditioner uses compressed refrigerant gas to cool air. Here are the basics:
    • When you compress any gas the gas gets hot, very hot. That is why the compressor is outside. Copper tubes connect the compressor with the evaporator coils inside.
    • When you rapidly release the pressure applied to the gas, it gets cold, very cold. The pressure is released in those evaporator coils, cooling the air in the surround.
    • While the gas cools the air, it also picks up heat from the inside of the house. The refrigerant gas cycles outside to be cooled and compressed again. A large fan in the center of the condenser unit helps to cool the refrigerant gas.
  • Many newer HVAC systems are hybrid systems that employ a heat pump. A heat pump can reverse the air conditioner process. It takes the hot air from the inside and moves it to the outside, it can also move hot air from the outside and move it to the inside.
    • Often a heat pump will require more air movement to effectively move heat.
    • A heat pump can effectively move heat inside, even when it is cold. However, there are limits; when the temperature drops below approximately 350 F another heat source is needed. That is why a heat pump is usually a part of a hybrid system.
    • If you have a hybrid heat pump HVAC system you will notice two heat settings on the thermostat; the second setting will read “aux” or “Em,” for emergency heat.
  • Ducts were built into your home as it was built.
    • Supply ducts move air from the furnace unit after it has been heated or cooled.
    • Return ducts bring air back to the furnace unit to be conditioned again. The air cycles continuously to keep the air fresh.
    • At least one air filter removes airborne particles from the circulating air. Look for this filter at the point the return air enters the furnace unit.
  • The control for the HVAC system is a wall mount sensor called a thermostat.
    • The thermostat measures the change in indoor temperature and activates the furnace or air conditioner as needed. Some thermostats have physical adjustments to toggle between heating and cooling functions.
    • Most thermostats are programmable. This allows you to schedule changes in the temperature in your home for cost savings and personal comfort.
    • Some thermostats include Smartphone apps to allow you to adjust and measure energy use.
  • Newer blower motors have variable speeds. Variable speeds allow a furnace or a heat pump to function properly.
  • All these components are controlled by precise electrical sensors and switches.
  • This complex HVAC system is very energy efficient. The enemy of the entire system and each of its component parts is DIRT.

Have questions about your HVAC System?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and HVAC Systems, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC System Maintenance information page.

HVAC System HVAC 101

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6 Efficient HVAC Upgrades To Sell Your Home Fast

Energy Upgrades That Help You Sell Your Home

HVAC Upgrades That Help You Sell Your Home

If you anticipate that the new year will bring a change of address, you might consider energy upgrades to maximize the value of your existing home. The investment that you make can set your property apart for eager homebuyers; an energy-efficient home takes it from great to perfect. However, upgrades can be expensive, so it is important to budget and develop a balanced plan to prevent loss.

January 10th is a day set aside as National Cut Your Energy Cost Day and we think that passing on ideas to reduce your utility bills. The place to start might be an energy audit with a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index. This step will give you the information you need to plan upgrades that increase both efficiency and value. Here is a list of HVAC Upgrades will help you sell your home faster.

  • HVAC Upgrade 1: The audit will closely examine the furnace, air conditioner, and water heater since these systems consume 70 to 75% of your total energy bill. Expect to learn nuances about your house that you have never noticed or heard… terms like BTUs and SEER ratings. Will you need to replace these systems? The audit can tell you. How much will the replacement cost? That is what the audit is for.
  • HVAC Upgrade 2: The audit might recommend the installation of a Smart thermostat to customize temperature control. Customizing the heating and cooling schedule throughout the day will save energy and increase the level of comfort.
  • HVAC Upgrade 3: It will also examine more mundane areas of your home and make recommendations concerning adding insulation and/or weatherproofing. These upgrades are relatively inexpensive but improve efficiency and lower energy bills.
  • HVAC Upgrade 4: Attention will go to windows and doors since about 15% of energy is lost through these openings. A variety of materials are available; you will learn rating terms, including low-E and SHGC. Windows can significantly improve comfort and efficiency.
  • HVAC Upgrade 5: Do not ignore the kitchen. Replacing old appliances with Energy Star certified appliances can reduce energy bills and will be very appealing to potential buyers.
  • HVAC Upgrade 6: Minor upgrades in your bathroom might include low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets. By increasing the pressure, less water is necessary, including less hot water for showers or cleaning.

Have questions about HVAC Upgrades To Sell Your Home Fast?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and HVAC Upgrades To Sell Your Home Fast, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Energy Upgrades That Help You Sell Your Home

 

 

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When Is It Time To Replace Your Furnace

Replace Your Furnace

Determining the Right Time to Replace Your Furnace

If you are on this website, something has brought you to consider the lifespan of your HVAC system. Perhaps a recent expensive repair bill arrived or you hear a new noise when the heat comes on. It reminded you that, like every mechanical system, your furnace will need to be replaced someday. Thinking about it now will give you some time to prepare for replacing your heating and air conditioning system since an emergency replacement is generally expensive and inconvenient.

Most of the available information about furnace replacement is written by manufacturers and installers, like Mullinix. While we endeavor to give you the best and most accurate information at hand, you might question the source, since we also hope to install your new furnace. Even the Department of Energy has an agenda different than yours when they offer information concerning furnace lifespan. Their agenda certainly does not consider your family’s budget. In this article, we will try to give you enough information to help you make a decision that meets your need.

How Long Do Furnaces Last?

Online information is very fluid concerning this question: you will see 15-20 years, 20-25 years, and even 25-30 years. No one can guaranty how long your furnace will last; we are left with some statistical generalities. Here it is: if your furnace is approaching 20 years of service life it is time to prepare for an eventual replacement. HVAC systems are a major purchase—take advantage of the advance notice.

What Leads to a Shortened Lifespan?

While no one can guaranty how long your furnace will last, we can tell what cuts into serviceable time.

  • Environmental conditions such as salt and moisture will lead to rust and corrosion in HVAC components. Prevent these conditions and repair them whenever possible to extend service life.
  • An improperly sized system will wear out quickly.
    • If the HVAC system is too large, it will heat or cool very quickly and shut off. Not only does the rapid cycling wear on electrical parts, but the rapid cycle results in less comfort than desired.
    • On the other hand, a system that is too small struggles to reach the desired temperature, even though it cycles long. Not only will it wear out quickly, but in the cooling season, an undersized system struggles to remove moisture.
  • Poor maintenance will shorten the lifespan of your furnace. That includes when the air filter is not changed regularly, dust accumulates on electrical components, or small repairs are neglected. Maintaining your HVAC system is the most effective thing you can do to lengthen its lifespan.

What Lengthens HVAC Lifespan?

Not only can we tell what shortens serviceable time, but we can also tell what lengthens service life:

  • Start with quality:
    • Selecting quality products makes a difference with every decision, and purchasing a key mechanical system to service your home is no different.
    • The U.S. Department of Energy says that improper installation of your HVAC system will reduce efficiency by 30% and will lead to premature failures. Make sure your HVAC professionals have the experience and training needed to properly install your system.
  • We cannot stress the importance of regular maintenance of your system. A technician will clean interior parts, inspect the electrical and mechanical parts for efficient, proper function, and perform small repairs as needed. This keeps your furnace and air conditioner in good working order, whether it is an old or new system.
  • Do your part by changing the air filter at least every three months.

Further Replacement Considerations

It might be time to replace your system if your system is 20 years old and:

  • You are facing expensive repairs or the replacement of expensive components. If you need to replace an air conditioning compressor or furnace heat exchange, the replacement cost might high enough that system replacement might be a wiser choice.
  • You are facing repeated repairs at inconvenient times.
  • Your utility bill has risen sharply or the furnace/air conditioner is tripping the breaker.
  • You are also planning a major remodel or room addition.

Have questions about replacing your furnace?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and furnace replacement, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Replace Your Furnace

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New Furnace Tips

New Furnace Tips

A New Furnace for Christmas

The transition from cooling to heating has led you to the decision to replace your furnace; the old unit served your family well, but it is time. Mullinix is grateful that you chose us to walk you through the process. The new furnace will function with greater efficiency and will take less energy than the old unit to keep you warm and comfortable. While you are waiting for all of the components to be delivered and the installation to be scheduled, here are some steps you can take to enhance the performance of the new furnace.

Improve Your Building Envelop

A technician performed a walk-through inspection and sized your furnace, customizing it to your living space. One step that you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your home is to check the attic insulation and check for obvious air leaks.

  • A quick inspection of your attic insulation is in order. Insert yourself through the opening enough to see the insulation. It should:
    • Appear like a smooth blanket, without hills and valleys
    • It should cover the ceiling joists by at least 4”
  • If your insulation needs attention, decide whether to call an insulator or to do-it-yourself
  • Use an incense stick to check windows and door frames for air movement. Use caulk and weather stripping as needed. This is definitely a do-it-yourself project.

Clean Your Ductwork

If your new furnace will tie into existing supply and return vents, make sure the ducts are all clean. The new furnace will start moving clean air throughout the house, instead of recirculating dust, pollen, and other airborne particles left from the old system. Cleaning ducts requires special equipment, but hiring a professional will be worth the cost.

Insist on a Smart Thermostat

Your new furnace will be installed with either a programmable thermostat (temperature control switch) or a Smart thermostat. Opt for the Smart thermostat. Take some time to learn the features and customize the new system to best suit your family. A smart thermostat allows you to:

  • Program daily or weekly heating schedules. By dropping the temperature overnight while everyone is sleeping, you will enhance your sleeping experience and save money.
  • Make changes to the schedule on the fly should your normal schedule change.
  • Customize your energy saving by being attuned to daily price fluctuations according to your local utility company.
  • Receive notifications, should a component malfunction or fail

Have questions about your New Furnace?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

New Furnace Tips

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Winterize Your Air Conditioner Unit

Winterize-Your-Air-Conditioner-1

Winterize Your Air Conditioner System

The last of the year’s warm days are quickly passing and we are facing the heating season of late Fall and Winter. It will be a while before you need the air conditioner (AC), so this is the time to winterize your Air Conditioner to make sure it stays ready for Spring. Winterization will also help extend the life of your air conditioner; here are several tips to winterize your Air Conditioner unit:

  1. These Winterize Your Air Conditioner Unit tips are recommendations; we first suggest that you follow your instruction manual to ensure the manufacturer’s warranty remains valid.
    1. Since HVAC equipment is becoming increasingly complex, do not attempt repairs on your own. Attempting repairs can be both dangerous and expensive, so leave it to the professionals.
    2. Manufacturers recommend an annual maintenance check with a qualified HVAC technician. Winterization is not an alternative to regular preventative maintenance visits.
  2. This is time to bring in window AC units. Removing window units will:
    1. Protect your room from leaks—both water leaks from blowing rain and cold air leaking through and around the unit.
    2. Protect the window unit from winter weather, including freezing rain that can damage the compressor fins.
    3. Extend the life of the window unit.
  3. Do you have central air conditioning or a heat pump? This is an important determination since a heat pump can be in use all winter while an AC unit will be dormant. During the summer, a heat pump moves heat out of the house to help cool and moves heat from the outside to help heat. The process is very energy efficient, so DO NOT turn a heat pump off. How can you tell the difference? Read the model number on the manufacturer’s label; if the model number includes the letters HP, it is a heat pump. If you still have questions, write the model number down and look it up online.
  4. When you have determined you have an air conditioner, prepare to turn the power off to the AC for the Winter.
    1. Look at the service panel to determine whether the AC has a dedicated circuit, separate from the furnace. If there is a dedicated circuit, turn the power off at the breaker.
    2. If the AC unit does not have a dedicated circuit breaker, look for a small breaker box on or near the outside unit. Flip the switch to “off.” When Spring arrives, make sure you flip the switch back to the “on” position approximately 24 hours before using the AC unit.
  5. After the power is off, gently wash the build-up of dirt from between the cooling fins.
    1. The outside AC unit is called a compressor or condenser; it squeezes refrigerant gas with great pressure. Once the pressure is released, the gas cools, providing the cooling needed for your home. The refrigerant gas then picks up heat and the hot gas passes through a series of tubes. Fins give greater surface area and airflow cools the gas before it is compressed again.
    2. Grass clippings and dirt collects between the fins and reduce the airflow. A gentle stream of water washes it out.
    3. Do NOT use a power washer! Too much pressure will bend the fins and prevent airflow.
  6. Inspect the roof gutter system in the immediate vicinity.
    1. Make sure leaks or a clogged and overflowing gutter are not dropping water directly into the AC unit. The water can freeze and cause damage.
    2. Make sure the gutters are not depositing standing water around the base of the AC unit.
  7. If you cover the outdoor AC nit to Winterize Your Air Conditioner, make sure you do it correctly:
    1. A cover that encapsulates the whole unit might attract small animals seeking shelter for the winter. Manufacturers do not recommend this.
    2. A cover over the top of the unit can provide protection from ice, leaves and falling limbs. Make sure that the covering is secured and will not blow away to cause damage.
    3. Schedule a date in early Spring to remove the cover. The cover will restrict airflow and can cause the AC unit to overheat. Overheating can result in the compressor unit failing.

Give Mullinix a call and schedule an HVAC maintenance visit to Winterize Your Air Conditioner; this will extend the life of your system and improve energy efficiency .

Have questions about how to Winterize Your Air Conditioner?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Winterize-Your-Air-Conditioner-1

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Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

As we enter late Fall and early Winter, the heating season is beginning in earnest. At Mullinix we care about the safety of our clients and offer some practical Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season to help protect your family and property.

Improperly used or poorly maintained heating equipment results in an annual average of 49,000 house fires:

  • 500 people lose their lives and 1,350 people are injured every year
  • The property loss exceeds $1.1B every year
  • About half of these fires happen during December, January and February1

Please, take steps to reduce the risk of fire by following some important safety tips.

Be prepared with smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Building codes require detectors on every level in new homes. If your home is not equipped with smoke and CO detectors, acquiring and installing them is a priority.

  • Some fire stations give detectors away during the heating season—it is worth investigating. Smoke detectors are inexpensive; don’t hesitate. Detectors save lives every year.
  • Smoke detectors should be installed in every bedroom or sleeping area.
  • Smoke detectors cannot protect you if they cease to function. Schedule battery replacement annually and push the little red button once per month to make sure they function properly.

Know the primary cause of home heating fires. Approximately 75% of home heating fires are caused by stationary or portable space heaters.

  • If you use electric-powered space heaters, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • Look for the UL safety notice to ensure it meets fire safety standards.
    • Electric space heaters draw significant power—inspect for damaged or frayed cords.
    • Plug the space heater into an outlet—do not use an extension cord.
    • Keep ANYTHING that can burn at least three feet away from the space heater.
    • Turn the space heater off when you leave the room or when you are going to sleep.
    • Do not place space heaters in high-traffic areas or within reach of small children.
  • If you use a wood/pellet burning stove or fireplace, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • A professional chimney sweep should inspect and clean your chimney annually. Twenty-five percent of home heating fires result from poorly maintained chimneys. Firewood leaves a deposit of a tar-like substance, called creosote. The build-up of creosote can lead to a fire inside the chimney that often ignites a house fire.
    • Flammable objects must be kept at least three feet from heat and ignition sources, including fire starters, wood, and pellets.
  • If you use central heat, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • An annual preventative maintenance inspection should be scheduled to ensure your furnace/heat pump functions safely and efficiently. An inspection will reveal potential problems before they become major problems and prevent home fire hazards.
    • Clean your ductwork regularly and make sure registers and returns are not blocked by furniture or drapes.
    • Replace your air filter regularly, at least every three months. This prevents stress on the furnace due to a clogged filter.

NEVER use an oven or stovetop to heat your home. The unvented exhaust gas from combustion contains CO, a colorless, odorless, yet poisonous gas.

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Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

1https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Heating-equipment