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Steps to AC Replacement

Steps to AC Replacement

Steps to AC Replacement

Often, the term “life cycle” is used to describe air conditioner function. Those who use it know that machines are not alive and do not die, but the words adequately convey the functioning years of air conditioner service. Certain events are rather common for every air conditioner system, so these events describe every AC system, including yours. Let’s look at some of these common happenings—perhaps you will recognize your AC’s stage.

Beginnings

When a new air conditioner system is installed, it is prime, state-of-the-art, and as efficient as it will ever be. This building system is sized to the existing structure and uses the latest in refrigerant gas technology. The electronics are strong and the blower motor—the workhorse of the system—is designed to circulate the entire volume of air in the home every two minutes or so.

While the air conditioner system is new, most manufacturers agree to warranty parts and labor. Pay very close attention to these guidelines, since repairs covered under the warranty may require action by the homeowner. Usually, annual preventative maintenance is required.

Middle Stages

The average air conditioner remains in service for 15+ years. If the homeowner faithfully maintains the system, it will expand the useful “life” of the system; an additional 5 to 10 years of usefulness are possible with proper maintenance. Other factors that influence the number of useful years include climate and insulation value in the home—factors that determine how hard the system must work over a long time. If you were not the homeowner when the system was installed, find the manufacturer’s date on the model number plaque of the condenser (outdoors) unit.

During the middle stages, the system will continue to function well. Keeping up with maintenance will ensure that any minor problems are discovered and repaired and the system functions as efficiently as possible. However, every year, by minor increments, the function will lose efficiency.

By year 15, the loss of efficiency will probably be evident on the energy bill each month. Due to age, the air conditioner may struggle to keep occupants comfortable during lengthy heatwaves with several days in triple digits. During this stage, the energy efficiency of a new system has been demonstrated to repay the cost of a new air conditioning system over an established number of years.

Later Years

Unfortunately, mechanical systems do not last forever—the same is true of cars, cell phones, and air conditioners. After 15 years, anticipate that repairs may become larger and more expensive. Efficiency will continue to fall. During this period, wise homeowners should be planning and budgeting for a new system. Talking to technicians and installers might inspire some improvement with a new system, such as UV lights to neutralize airborne biological lifeforms or a Smart thermostat.

Failure

In some situations, homeowners choose to keep an older system until the very end of the useful “life.” During this final stage, repairs will increase, and efficiency will decrease. Eventually, a repair will be required that is so expensive that replacement is a better financial option. During this stage, a catastrophic failure of the compressor in the condenser unit is often the tipping point. Replacing this part is extremely important and the part may not be possible. Expect this to happen at a most inopportune time—during an extremely hot day. An emergency replacement may take a couple of weeks since the stress of a heatwave takes out several air conditioners every day. Getting the absolute most out of the system may come at the cost of days of discomfort.

Make R.M. Mullinix Your Go-To For all AC Replacement Questions

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC Replacement services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance Plan information page.

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AC Maintenance: Keep Your Evaporator Coils Clean

AC Maintenance: Keep Your Evaporator Coils Clean

AC Maintenance: Importance of Keeping Your Evaporator Coils Clean

Have you ever walked around in the dark and stubbed your toe good and hard? It sure puts some energy in your next few steps, doesn’t it? If your response led you to encounter another object, you might find yourself bouncing around in the dark, encountering even more objects. Let’s use that picture to demonstrate how your air conditioning system works.

Gas molecules are used to flying around, free and easy, but, just like you, when they bump into something it causes them to pick up energy and begin moving faster. Mostly, they bounce off other gas molecules and occasionally they hit another surface. Each time they hit something, they pick up energy and move faster. With the increase in energy, the temperature of the gas rises. When they strike fewer molecules and surfaces their temperature falls.

Engineers use this principle to design air conditioning systems.

  • When you compress a gas, it really heats up, since each molecule is bouncing off other molecules and the container it is compressed in.
  • If you suddenly release the pressure, the really hot gas cools very quickly. The temperature change is drastic, from a pipe that is too hot to touch to a pipe that is cold enough to be uncomfortable to the touch.
  • The compressed gas is released into a network of tubes in an enclosed space and hot, humid air is blown over the surface. The hot, humid air is transformed into cool, dry air and distributed throughout the house.
  • Scientifically, the non-compressed gas is absorbing the heat, making the cool gas hot again. This hot gas must be cooled down before it can be compressed for the next cycle. Air is blown over the tubes of hot gas outside, where gases in the atmosphere absorb the heat and move away, free and easy again.

One last thing—this transfer of heat (and cold) takes place very quickly; the entire volume of air in your home encounters the cool tubes of gas four times or more during each cooling cycle. Occupants feel the difference almost immediately. That is quite impressive! Outside, all that heat is also being released at approximately the same time. This tremendous heat transfer is accomplished by two separate coil systems—the evaporator coil and the condenser coil.

AC Maintenance: Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is part of the inside portion of your air conditioner, in the cabinet portion, for central air systems, and in the wall unit for ductless systems. It is composed of a network of tubes, clad in very thin fins. The coil and fins maximize the surface area for efficient heat transfer. A relatively small chamber houses the evaporator coil to ensure the airflow comes in direct contact with the cool tub. A strong fan moves tremendous amounts of air and brings relief to occupants by way of cool air. But remember, what is really happening is the cold gas is absorbing the heat from the house.

The humidity in the house condenses on the evaporator before dripping down to a collection pan. Since the indoor air contains airborne particles of dust, pollen, and dander, these particles collect on the coil. While the air filter catches most of these particles, everything that bypasses the filter will collect on the coil and fins. The dirt interferes with heat transfer and needs to be cleaned regularly.

AC Maintenance: Condenser Coil

After the gas in the evaporator coil has collected heat, it travels outside, so the hot gas can release the heat into the atmosphere. What looks like a cabinet is actually another, much larger network of tubes and fins. Inside the cabinet is a large fan, pulling tremendous amounts of air through the coil and across the fins. This is happening so quickly because this gas must be ready—that is, cool enough—to be compressed again and start the process all over again.

Dust, pollen, leaves, grass clippings, and many other forms of debris are pulled onto the surface of the condenser coil. Again, this debris interferes with the transfer of heat and must be removed regularly.

Maintaining both the evaporator coil and the condenser coil is absolutely necessary for the efficient functioning of an air conditioner. A dirty coil causes fans, blowers, and controllers to work harder, which uses more electricity. Using more electricity to do the same process is a waste of money.

It also results in a warmer, mustier home, not good. Ultimately, should the hot gas in the condenser fail to transfer heat quickly enough, the too-hot gas can damage the compressor and cause a terrible failure. But, the good news is cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils is completed during every maintenance visit with Mullinix.

Make R.M. Mullinix Your Go-To For all AC Maintenance Questions

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC Maintenance services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance Plan information page.

 

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AC Repair Services: Top Summertime Breakdowns

AC Repair Services: Top Summertime Breakdowns

Most Demanding AC Repair Services Caused by Summer Heat

It’s days like this that enhance the appreciation for air conditioning at work, in the car, and certainly at home! For some folks, air conditioners are very complex and should only be handled by trained professionals. For some with a do-it-yourself bent and a little information, maintaining the heating and air conditioning system is more of a partnership between yourself and your AC contractor. Here are several DIY tasks that homeowners can complete to help keep the system running efficiently.

Changing Air Filters. The simple task of changing an air filter regularly is key to maintaining your HVAC system. The air filter removes airborne particles from the indoor air. These particles threaten health and coat every surface—what a mess! Particles are apt to cling to the moist evaporator coil and coat the heating element of an electric heater. They will coat the ductwork and electrical controls in the system. For the health and safety of occupants and the safe and efficient use of an HVAC, the air filter needs to be changed at least every three months.

Find the air filter for your system at the point return where air enters the interior cabinet. Make certain of the proper size and find a local source for replacement filters. Your home may need a filter change more frequently than every three months—you will be in a position to know. Schedule perpetual calendar prompts to remind you to change filters regularly.

Clean the Condenser Unit. The outdoor portion of your air conditioner is called the condenser. The cabinet is composed of a network of tubes with very thin fins and has the task of cooling the refrigerant gas. A large, central fan draws air between the coils for the task, but dirt, pollen, and grass clippings coat the network and prevent adequate airflow. This layer of debris can be easily washed away with a garden hose, but only a garden hose. Using a power washer can damage the fins and restrict air movement.

Thermostat Care. A thermostat is the sensor/switch combination located about eye level on an interior wall. When the sensor registers a temperature outside of the selected setting, it calls for air—either hot or cold air. The control settings are powered by AA or AAA batteries and need to be changed annually. When you change the batteries in your smoke detectors also change the battery(s) in your thermostat. Turn the thermostat to the OFF position, gently remove it from its wall mount, and replace the batteries. After reattaching the thermostat, return the setting to ON.

Drain Line Care. The air conditioner removes as much as 2 gallons of water per day from the indoor air in a home. The moisture collects in an evaporator drain pan and flows through a drainpipe outdoors or to the home’s wastewater system. This works flawlessly until it doesn’t. A common problem happens when algae grow on the drain pan or inside the drain line. The resulting clog sends water into the surrounding floor and can cause significant damage. Use a wet vac to remove the water and suction the clog from the pipe. Add a mixture of water and vinegar, 50/50 mix, to the drain pan. The vinegar will inhibit the growth of algae.

Vent Care. Over a period of years, dust can collect inside the ductwork of a home. Accessing the ducts requires specialized equipment and training, so schedule a cleaning every three to five years. Do a frequent inspection of the supply vents and air returns around the house to ensure nothing is covering the opening, restricting airflow.

Schedule Annual Maintenance. These are tasks any homeowner can choose to complete, but there are further tasks that require equipment and training. To keep your system functioning in peak condition call your partner, your friendly HVAC professional, to complete an annual checkup inspection and thorough cleaning of your system. This minimizes repairs and maximizes the useful years of your air conditioning system.

Make R.M. Mullinix Your Go-To For all AC Repair Services

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance Plan information page.

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AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference

AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference

AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference

Air conditioning has made such a difference in the deep South, not only allowing the construction of millions of homes but also opening manufacturing and commerce that would be hard to manage due to the intense heat of southern summers.1 Texas homes can be safe, healthy, and comfortable due to the existence of residential air conditioning. However, since these vital building systems are also quite expensive to maintain, repair, and replace, gathering adequate information can help homeowners when making decisions concerning when to repair and when to replace.

Can You Make the AC Repair Yourself?

Homeowners can gain confidence in making certain simple repairs:

  • Changing the air filter. Locate the air filter by tracing the return air duct bringing air into the air conditioner cabinet. The filter is often made of paper or fiber. Purchase a filter of the same size, slide the old filter out, and the new filter in. Old filters clog over time and a clogged filter reduces airflow through the system; prevent this by changing the filter at least every three months.
  • Clean the condenser unit. The condenser unit is located outside of the home and the outer structure is a network of coiled tubes and fins. Dust and grass clippings get pulled into this network and severely reduces the cooling efficiency. Use a garden hose (not a power washer) to wash away the grass and dirt.
  • Change the thermostat batteries. The thermostat is the AC switch, located on an inside wall; the sensor recognizes a temperature rise and calls for cooling. The thermostat is powered by a battery or two; certainly, this is a task most homeowners can complete. Turn the thermostat off, gently pull it off the setting, and replace the batteries.

Is the AC Repair Affordable?

When air conditioner repairs require a call to a technician, some visits are affordable, and others will push the limit of financial balance.

  • Annual air conditioner maintenance is recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and every air conditioner manufacturer. Regular maintenance extends the useful life of an air conditioner.
  • Most electrical repairs. The replacement of electrical capacitors, switches, sensors, and controllers is relatively inexpensive. When high voltage moves through sensitive electrical parts, some wear and tear occur, so expect a few repairs over the useful life of the system.
  • Limited replacement of refrigerant. Each system uses a refrigerant gas to move heat from inside to outside the space. Of necessity, the gas is enclosed in a closed network of copper or aluminum tubes. If the gas in the system is low, it leaks out. If gas needs to be added to the system, fix the leak before adding more refrigerant.

AC Repair or Replace?

How much is too much? When the repair cost is high, make sure to get a price for an air conditioner replacement for a cost comparison. Potential repairs that come with a high price tag include:

  • Refrigerant gas replacement cost can be a deciding factor. Some gases have been banned and are no longer available. In these cases, the cost is not the issue; replacement is no longer possible. This factor may determine whether you replace or repair your system.
  • Frequent minor repairs may become very expensive and warrant a decision to replace the entire system.
  • Replacing some large components, such as the compressor motor or condenser unit, will be quite expensive. The cost of part replacement and the cost of system replacement may be close enough to warrant replacement.
  • Older air conditioner systems lose efficiency over time AND new air conditioner systems have enhanced efficiency. The utility bill for running an old air conditioner may be high enough to warrant a new system.

Struggling to decide between AC Repair or AC Replacement, RM Mullinix can help!

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Repair information page.

AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference

1 https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/04/upshot/the-all-conquering-air-conditioner.html#:~:text=After%20the%201950s%2C%20air%2Dconditioning,to%20manage%20in%20sweltering%20heat

 

 

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8 Noises That Indicate You Need AC Repair

AC Repair

Noises That Lead to AC Repair

Did You Hear That?

Houses and apartments can be the source of so many odd sounds, coming from hidden places for reasons unknown. Most noises are harmless, resulting from structural material expanding and contracting due to temperature variations—nothing to worry about. What types of noises are typical for your air conditioner system and what types of noises should cause AC Repair concern?

Normal Noises

Clicks. When the thermostat recognizes a temperature rise, you might hear a soft click—first at the thermostat and then at various places along the component pathway. Of course, expect another click that indicates the air conditioner has done its job, signaling the end of the cooling cycle.

Startup Sounds

After the thermostat clicks, expect a delay as cooling begins and what has been described as a rapid buildup, not unlike a jet engine startup. The size and materials of the space may determine how much of this is normally heard. This sound is coming from one of the few moving parts, as the blower motor begins to spin rapidly. The “whose” of air movement might also be heard.

Gentle Pops

The ductwork is a network that moves the cool air from the blower motor throughout the house. Ducts are made of rather thin sheet metal, so it is not unusual to hear a few light pops, as the metal contracts and expands.

Abnormal Noises

The decibel level of sound will vary with construction materials, space layout, and brand/age of the air conditioner. Normal noises are heard most of the time and heard consistently. Abnormal noises begin when something happens to the normal air conditioner function. Abnormal sounds include:

Buzzing or Loud Humming

When electrical parts function properly, they give off a soft, perhaps imperceptible hum. When parts begin to wear or are under stress, the hum or buzz increases in volume and may sound menacing. Showing the location of such buzzing to a technician will be very helpful in the diagnosis process.

Whistling

Whistling generally indicates restricted air movement. When an air filter is clogged, air may whistle as it tries to move around the filter. The same sound can be observed if a vent or return is partially blocked, restricting airflow.

Hissing, Bubbling, or Gurgling

The air conditioner functions via the use of refrigerant gas. Under certain conditions, this gas becomes a liquid, so the same substance can be found in the system in one form or another. Whenever the gas/liquid is leaking, you may hear it escaping from the closed system while under pressure. The system contains a relatively small amount of gas, so this noise will not last long. However, locating the source of this sound will be very important to the repair technician.

Screeching, Rattling, or Banging

There are very few moving parts in an air conditioner system.  Noises such as screeching, rattling or banging that could be cause for concern may involve the blower motor. Any of these noises will be associated with the blower assembly—imbalanced or loose fan blades for instance. If something besides the blower assembly is making a rattling or banging noise, something is moving that should not move. Locating this sound will be extremely helpful for diagnosing the problem.

Air conditioners, like lighting, make gentle noises that are the background of our life. When something goes wrong resulting in an unusual noise, take note and seek assistance for an AC Repair remedy.

Would you like to know more about our AC Repair?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance Plan information page.

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HVAC Maintenance Plan: 3 Reasons You Need One

HVAC Maintenance Plan

The R.M. Mullinix HVAC Maintenance Plan Details

When your air conditioner is new or running fine, it is easy to ignore the suggestion of regular preventative maintenance visits. Doesn’t that adage “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” apply? Of course, this is the question asked about any maintenance task, so let’s consider three reasons an annual HVAC Maintenance Plan is a good financial decision.

The System Needs Care

Consumers seldom make major purchases and refuse to take care of the product. Vehicles and property are great examples of purchases that require maintenance. HVAC systems, especially the air conditioning component, need regular maintenance; here are a few reasons for that maintenance.

  • Dirt and dust are the enemies of any mechanical system. In this case, the air conditioner is moving heat from the inside to the outside and dirt creates a barrier to heat transfer. A major task with preventative maintenance inspections is to remove dust from remote areas to allow the free movement of heat.
  • Time and use lead to wear on components within the system. Since many parts are working in unison, whenever one part wears, it leads to stress on other parts. System failure is often the result of a cascade of failures of many small parts. Preventative maintenance catches stress and failure of small parts to prevent this cascade.

Expertise and Experience

Truthfully, most people have the tools and basic skills needed to put a new roof on a house; a crowbar, a hammer, and the right supplies and you are all set. Most homeowners can dig and therefore have the basic skill needed to install a pool in the backyard. Having the proper tools and experience makes both jobs much easier and few homeowners choose to install a new roof or pool when a professional is available. Maintaining your air conditioner properly should also be completed by HVAC professionals.

  • Air conditioners are quite complex, utilizing a variety of electrical and mechanical parts. The thermostat uses 24 volts, and the motors involve 240 volts. HVAC professionals recognize the difference and understand the consequences of accidental contact with both.
  • HVAC professionals are familiar with the various refrigerant gases used in modern systems. They are qualified to install and remove these gases in an environmentally friendly manner.
  • HVAC professionals have the training, tools, and experience to troubleshoot and diagnose problems. This will ensure your air conditioner functions properly.

HVAC Maintenance Plan Savings

Maintaining a product after purchase is all about keeping the product functioning as efficiently and as long as possible.

  • When dust creates a barrier to heat transfer or parts begin to stress under constant use, the whole system loses efficiency. Gradually, more time and energy are required to accomplish the same task. As a result, the utility bill will begin to creep up, until it becomes noticeable.
  • Regular wear will create small failures. Catching a small failure early reduces stress upon other parts, sometimes saving stress on large, expensive components. An HVAC Maintenance Plan will minimize large repair bills by preventing large failures.
  • A key to cost savings is keeping your air conditioner system running as long as possible. The average system ranges between 10 and 15 years of service. Regular maintenance can add approximately five years to useful service.

Would you like to know more about our HVAC Maintenance Plan?

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

HVAC Maintenance Plan

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AC Installer: When To Call in the Expert

AC Installer: When To Call in the Expert

When You Need an AC Installer

Summertime is surely heating up and the cooling season is in full swing. For several years, turning on the air conditioner with full confidence that it will cool properly has been an assumption. If you have been relying upon the same air conditioner for years, replacement may be on the horizon.

However, the advantages of a new air conditioner system are tremendous; perhaps the replacement of the air conditioner should be considered an upgrade. Here are several upgrade advantages to consider helping with decision-making on when to call an AC Installer.

Reasons for an Upgrade and the Need to Call an AC Installer

Age. If the old, worn-out system is in danger of failure, the new system will be an upgrade. The technologies are available, such as variable speed blower motors and Smart thermostats to schedule temperature changes for comfort and energy savings.

Home expansion or remodeling. If the footprint of a home changes, it will change the heating and cooling needs of the space. Air conditioners are sized according to the need. A technician can calculate the load and make recommendations for an upgrade.

Health changes. The HVAC will impact the indoor air quality in a home. Poor indoor air quality harms family members who have breathing difficulties. A health need may lead to the need to upgrade the air conditioner system.

Condition

Perhaps this home purchase was recent, and the existing air conditioner is questionable, at best. No one will guarantee the lifespan of an air conditioner—it will last as long as it lasts. Typically, air conditioners function well for 10 to 15 years; excellent maintenance may add as many as 5 years of serviceability. If your AC system functions poorly, an upgrade and a call to an AC Installer may be in order.

Refrigerant Gases

Air conditioning and refrigeration systems use refrigerant gases that people typically refer to as freon. This term is inaccurate since these gases change from time to time. Some of the best refrigerant gases are harmful to the environment and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates changes to protect the ozone layer. New systems use the newly regulated gas, and the old gas is no longer available. That makes the existing supply of the old gas extremely expensive. When repairs are made, the cost of the old refrigerant might tip the cost scale and make replacement a preferred decision over a repair.

Efficiency

An old, worn AC unit had the best technology when it was manufactured, but improvements in AC technology have made tremendous strides. With a slightly warmer climate, the old tech is struggling to keep up. Wear and tear add to the struggle.

An old, worn, struggling system costs more to operate than a new AC system. A new system also creates greater comfort and is more convenient to schedule.

Repair Costs

Minor repairs may keep an aging AC system running during an emergency, but at some point, repair costs will become excessive and, eventually, impossible. When a major component, such as the compressor motor, fails, the cost of replacing the component and the refrigerant gas approaches the cost of replacement. Keeping an old system intact does not make economic sense and an upgrade is in order.

Looking for an AC Installer?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and AC Installer, schedule an appointment, or visit our  AC Maintenance information page.

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HVAC Maintenance: Top 4 Tips for Homeowners

HVAC Maintenance Tips

HVAC Maintenance Tips

Caring for your home might seem like a full-time job! There is a lawn to mow and landscaping to trim, trim to paint, and windows to caulk; the list seems endless. If you enjoy performing home improvements and care, you live at the right time and in the right place. So much information is available and so many products are available to help you with your tasks.

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in your home is the most complex building system you will face. This system not only keeps your family comfortable by heating and cooling the home, but it also circulates and cleans the air to keep your family safe and healthy. There are plenty of do-it-yourself HVAC Maintenance tasks for homeowners to complete.

1 Change That Air Filter

Nothing is as simple and as beneficial as changing the system air filter regularly. The air filter collects airborne particles with every heating and cooling cycle. When the filter gets clogged, it loses its effectiveness as a filter, allowing particles through. The clogged filter also reduces airflow, which places tremendous stress on air conditioner components.

The stress reduces efficiency, read—costs money, and reduces the longevity of the equipment, read—costs money. Schedule filter changes at least every three months; use family events, such as birthdays or seasons as a reminder.

2 Clean the Condenser Unit

The outdoor portion of your air conditioner is called the condenser unit. While it seems solid, it is a network of tubes and fins designed to cool hot gases running through the tubes. It is essential for air to pass through the fins to dissipate the heat; notice the large fan in the center.

When mown grass and dust combine to clog the holes between the fins and it is very important to clean the debris away. Use a garden hose to wash away the buildup, making sure not to damage the fins.

Since the condenser needs tremendous airflow, trim tall grass and shrubs at least two feet away from the unit. Clean debris, limbs, and leaf litter away from the base. Reposition lawn furniture a good distance away.

3 Clear the Evaporator Drain Line

In the inside air conditioner cabinet, you can locate the evaporator coil. It serves a similar purpose as the condenser coil outdoors. An abundance of air moves through a network of tubes and fins, but this time the gas is cool. As warm, humid air passes over the cool tubes, water condenses and drops to a drain pan below. A cool, dark, moist space is a perfect spot for the growth of algae.

When the algae grow inside of the drain lines, expect the drain to clog. A simple solution is to open the cabinet and add a cup of vinegar or bleach to the drain pan. This retards the growth of algae, avoiding the leak that develops when the drain pan overflows.

4 Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Your very complex HVAC system needs regular professional care, so do your part by scheduling an annual preventative maintenance inspection. An HVAC Maintenance technician will test electrical parts, check the coolant gas pressure—add gas as needed, and measure the system efficiency. This is a good time to ask for advice and get some maintenance tips from your HVAC Maintenance professional.

Have Questions about HVAC Maintenance?

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

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Springtime HVAC Maintenance Tips for 2023

Springtime HVAC Maintenance Tips for 2023

Springtime HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Finally! It seemed that spring would never arrive. Goodbye, cold weather, and hello warmth. Flowers and gardening, hikes, and cookouts are all in your near future. In another few days, it will be time to time to turn on the air conditioner. Ah, air conditioning is a comfortable retreat when the summer heat cranks up.

If you look forward to air conditioning on hot summer days, here are some things you can do to enhance your air conditioner’s benefit.

HVAC Maintenance Tip: Keep it Clean

Your air conditioner circulates a lot of air—the entire volume of your home moves two or three times with every cooling cycle. All that air is moving through a network of ducts and one air filter. The moving air constantly picks up airborne particles and the filter is constantly trapping particles.

The outdoor portion of your air conditioner is facing the same problem. A fan moves a lot of air through the very small fins to cool the hot refrigerant gas. Dust and pollen get trapped between the fin, reducing the efficiency of the condenser unit. Both indoors and outdoors, dust and dirt are the enemies of your air conditioner.

  • Make sure to change the air filter regularly—at least every three months.
  • Clean ductwork every three to five years
  • Schedule annual maintenance to make sure the system gets thoroughly cleaned.

HVAC Maintenance Tip: Well Used Fans

A key to good air conditioning is air movement, so fans are essential. A large fan—the blower—circulates a lot of air. Most homeowners set the Fan on “Auto,” running this big fan only during the cooling cycle. There are distinct advantages to using the “On” setting, running the fan continuously.

  • Obviously, this will improve circulation. Moving air feels good and actually makes one feel cooler.
  • Since the air is continuously moving through an air filter, it is constantly being cleaned. Running the fan all the time improves indoor air quality.
  • Running the fan constantly actually uses less energy and saves money. Keeping a moving fan moving uses less energy than starting a still fan several times per hour.
  • The moving air also removes humidity with more efficiency than cycling off and on.
  • A fan in the “On” position creates less stress and wears the blower motor less. Eventually, that means a longer useful life for your air conditioner system.

HVAC Maintenance Tip: Thermostat Savvy

Early thermostats were simple analog switches, with heat and cool settings, and fan On/Off settings. Currently, thermostats allow advanced programming, with comfort and savings settings. Learning the steps to properly program is not hard, and the results are worth the effort.

  • First, determine the optimum temperature setting. This is a personal choice, but it usually is a group decision. A comfortable and efficient range lies between 72 and 780. Comfort will determine your settings.
  • Another factor uses the technology of air conditioning: air conditioners function most efficiently by changing the indoor temperature within 100 of the average outdoor temperature. Using this principle will not result in comfort, but it demonstrates how energy efficiency works.
  • Combining comfort and efficiency takes a little compromising and a little programming. Energy, and therefore, cost savings will take a reduction in air conditioning for at least 8 hours per day. Programming a temperature change that reduces air conditioning demand during the evening or while the house is empty during the day will accomplish this reduction. A 30-minute cooling transition time can also be programmed to bring the home back to a comfortable setting.

Have Questions about HVAC Maintenance?

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

Springtime HVAC Maintenance Tips for 2023

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Tips for Managing Indoor Humidity

Tips for Managing Indoor Humidity

Managing Indoor Humidity Tips for Homeowners

Each year, Texans experience summer heat and humidity in tandem and seek comfort and relief in indoor spaces. Air conditioning was designed to address both environmental factors (heat and humidity) to make indoor spaces safe for occupants. Let’s look at the impact humidity, both high and low humidity, makes on homes.

Why is Managing Indoor Humidity Important?

Experience has shown that an ideal range for indoor humidity is between 30 and 50%. Typical Texas summertime humidity averages nearly 70% with morning moisture hovering at 90%. High indoor humidity leads to:

  • A stuffy, uncomfortable feeling in the air
  • Surfaces will become sticky, and the humidity can damage painted or finished surfaces.
  • A water-based adhesive that holds wallpaper in place may turn loose.
  • A moist surface is ideal for the growth of mold and mildew.

Low indoor humidity also leads to potential problems and as you might imagine, they are the inverse of high humidity problems.

  • Indoor air will feel dry, making skin, eyes, and sinuses irritated.
  • The wood in the trim and furniture will be unusually dry.

Managing the Sources of Indoor Humidity

Most indoor moisture will enter a home from the outdoor air, and we already know outdoor humidity is high. Removing moisture is essential, but even when you remove humidity from your home, air will seek equilibrium. Every time you open a door or window, moisture enters, but moisture will also find small openings and cracks to make entry.

The entry of outdoor water will increase if standing water is allowed to stand near your home. Poor drainage can lead to puddles or leaks into the basement or crawl space. Make sure that wastewater is draining properly and away from the house.

Indoor sources of water contribute to indoor humidity. Water is added to the air during showers, baths, cooking, and washing dishes or clothes. And of course, every occupant adds moisture with every breath.

Managing Indoor Humidity by Removing Indoor Moisture

  1. Remove sources of standing water near your home by improving drainage
  2. Seal leaks and caulk around windows and doors
  3. Use exhaust fans while showering or bathing until the steam evaporates from the mirror.
  4. Schedule maintenance of your air conditioner annually to ensure it removes humidity efficiently.
  5. Replace a failing air conditioner: the expected useful life of an air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years.

In extreme situations, you may need to use a dehumidifier and/or a humidifier, according to the season.

Have Questions about Managing Indoor Humidity?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Managing Indoor Humidity, schedule an appointment, or visit our  AC Maintenance information page.

Tips for Managing Indoor Humidity