Category: hvac repair and installation

4 HVAC Maintenance Processes You Need to Know About

Frequently, our articles encourage you to maintain your HVAC system. We taut the documented benefits of a professional checkup (longer-lasting equipment, better efficiency, cleaner air, etc.) and demonstrate that both the Department of Energy and every HVAC system manufacturer agree. This article describes an annual HVAC Maintenance visit in detail to demonstrate you are getting good service for the price.

An HVAC Maintenance visit will be scheduled to ensure someone is available to give our technician access to your home for the required amount of time to be thorough. We will respect your time and your home.

General HVAC Maintenance Function Inspection

The visit might begin by verifying the thermostat function to make sure the settings work, cycling through the fan, cool, and heat settings. The temperature rise or drop will be measured for both settings at supply vents to ensure the entire system is working according to design. The thermostat batteries will be replaced. This is the time to ask the HVAC Maintenance technician about programming your thermostat.

Cabinet Inspection

The central HVAC cabinet is generally located in an out-of-the-way location, a mechanical closet, garage, basement, or attic. This will take a little time as several operations are completed.

• Dirt and dust interfere with mechanical functions, so everything possible will be cleaned. We will replace the air filter. The evaporator coil will be dusted, the drain pan cleaned, and the drain line cleared of debris.
• Mechanical parts will be maintained as needed. Moving parts that need to be lubricated as required. Breakers and the disconnected power box will be inspected.
• Thorough testing of electrical parts will be completed, making sure connections are tight, amp and voltage draws are correct, and the control capacitor and connections are working properly.
• If you have an electric furnace, we will also examine the heater coil.

Natural Gas or Propane Furnace Inspection

Natural gas furnaces are safe and efficient appliances, but poorly maintained gas equipment can cause a fire or release gas into the home. We pay special care to keep your family and home safe.

• The natural gas delivery system will be inspected from entry to burner. We visually inspect the gas line and make sure the gas valve functions properly. We measure gas pressure and make sure the burner and ignition system operate as needed.
• The controls for ignition and function are electrical; they will also be tested.
• Combustion happens in the heat exchanger. We closely inspect the heat exchanger for damage, measure carbon monoxide levels, and analyze air quality.

Condenser Unit HVAC Maintenance Care

The outdoor condenser unit is vital to both heating and air conditioning functions. It is vital that it remain free of dust and debris.

• This unit houses refrigerant gas connections. We inspect the gas connection and measure the gas pressure, adding gas as needed (at an additional cost).
• Mechanical-electrical parts will be inspected; the compressor motor, defrost controls, and reversing valve will be tested.
• The condenser coil will be cleaned to remove dust and grass clippings that might have blown in.

We take customer service and technical expertise very seriously, so we will let you be the judge whether this is a value to you. If we complete these functions, what is left for you to do?

• Watch for vent creep. Vent creep is when furniture, toys, and drapes slowly move to cover the supply or return vents. Make sure everything remains uncovered.
• Watch for condenser creep. The same thing can happen to the outdoor condenser unit; grass and shrubs can grow too close and leaves blow around the base.
• Change your air filter regularly, at least every three months.

Have a question about HVAC Maintenance?

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

Homeowner’s New Air Conditioner Installation Tips

Homeowners have learned to appreciate, maybe even depend upon an HVAC system that keeps the house warm or cool at the appropriate time. We prepare for events that might leave us without HVAC (power outages and storms) and determine ways we can improve efficiency. In this article, we will introduce a couple of tools to help you prepare for the necessity of replacing your HVAC system and what is involved with a New Air Conditioner Installation.

Introducing—the calendar. A calendar can help you keep your system maintained and prepare for an eventual replacement. Consider these steps after your New Air Conditioner Installation:

• Set a quarterly schedule to change your air filter. Air filter replacement makes #1 on the list of maintenance steps for HVAC systems. Changing the air filter helps remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Removing these particles means they no longer interfere with the function of your HVAC system.Changing your air filter will reduce stress on your HVAC system and extend its functional usefulness. So find a mnemonic device to help you remember to change your air filter: the official change of season, birthdays, or a certain day of the month.
• Set an annual reminder to schedule an annual HVAC maintenance tune-up. An annual checkup usually ranks #2 on the top list of maintenance steps; an HVAC professional inspects the system, cleans interior parts, and tests various components. The refrigerant gas pressure will be tested to ensure the system is not leaking.Not only will the cleaning reduce stress, but the tests will catch minor problems before they become major issues. Annual inspections are affordable and a great step to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently for as long as possible. Perhaps you can use a computer calendar to give yourself a reminder at the same time each year.
• Projecting out a little, set a scheduled reminder to clean your ductwork every 3 to 5 years. Every time your blower cycle stops, the air flowing through the ducts slows and comes to a relative stop. As it does, gravity causes the airborne particles in the duct to drop and coat the walls of the ducts. Some dust will be picked up when the air begins moving again, but most remains on the ductwork wall.After a few years, the ductwork walls accumulate a significant layer of dust. Since this dust works against your entire HVAC system, scheduling a regular cleaning helps to extend the life of your system. Energy agencies recommend cleaning ductwork every 3 to 5 years.¹ Several conditions might encourage you to clean ducts more often, including family members with asthma, allergies, or breathing difficulties.
• Discover the year your current HVAC system was installed and project out 20 years. HVAC systems are not guaranteed to last that long, but this will give you a target date to anticipate replacing the system. This will be useful information when combined with the next tool.

With reminders to render care to your HVAC system, you will be in great shape to assess its condition and make an informed decision concerning replacement. Additional information that becomes useful include:

• Utility bills. A gradual increase in energy cost is normal, but a cost spike might indicate your HVAC system is functioning inefficiently and costing you money.
• Energy utilities benefit when homeowners use less energy and often offer rebates on energy bills for installing a new, energy-efficient system. Here is a quick explanation:
  • energy companies must plan for energy peaks, for hours and days when the combined energy use is at its highest.
  • In order to meet the peak demand, a power plant might be built that sits idle most of the time and only gets “turned on” during peak days. That is an expensive backup plan.
  • When customers reduce energy use, the energy peak is lower and the next idle plant will not be needed, reducing the cost to the company and customers.
• Adding a new room might overtax your existing HVAC system. An additional family member might change your idea of comfort if you are “just getting by” with your old system.

Now, add a calculator to the information you have accumulated.

• Research and uncover a broad guesstimate for the cost of replacing your existing system.
• Calculate how many months before your system reaches the 20-year mark.
• Consider setting aside a portion of the cost each month in anticipation of replacement. If you can complete this monthly goal, you will be better prepared to purchase a new HVAC when the time comes for replacement.

Have a question about Air Conditioner Installation?

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

¹ https://www.directenergy.ca/learn/home-improvement/signs-your-ducts-need-cleaning#:~:text=Experts%20advise%20having%20your%20air,frequently%20than%20the%20recommended%20average.

Ductless Mini Split System Benefits

The weather in Texas’ Brazos Valley can cause some “heated” arguments around the thermostat setting. One person is hot while the other is cold, sometimes while sitting in the same room.

Traditional HVAC systems make it difficult to accommodate everyone’s preferences. Ductless mini split systems can help end the temperature conflicts.

Here is a deeper look at why ductless mini split systems are becoming more popular to create zoned heating and cooling, and are an excellent choice for retrofitting homes with existing HVAC systems. Here are seven reasons you might want to consider a ductless mini split system.

Increased Livable Space

Adding additional living space presents a problem for an existing HVAC system that was designed to heat and cool specific sized living space.

A ductless mini split system is an efficient way to efficiently cool and heat that room, whether it is an attic space, garage apartment, sunroom, etc., the space becomes livable.

Zoned Heating & Cooling

Multi-zoned ductless mini split systems provide the flexibility to create areas where the temperature can be set differently in rooms.

This is great in a situation where a wife likes it a bit warmer in the kitchen, and the husband enjoys cooler temperatures in his office. The possibilities are endless with the many different configuration options.

Increase Energy-Efficiency

Ductless mini split systems include an inverter technology that adjusts the workload of the unit to maintain your desired temperature. This feature reduces the amount of energy required to keep your living spaces at the desired temperature, which reduces your utility bills.

Humidity Control

East Texans are used to high humidity. Mini splits can not only heat and cool your home, but they also remove humidity. The “Dry Mode” feature is designed to remove humidity. Don’t be misled, a mini split is not a humidifier, but it can cut the mugginess that East Texas summers are famous for.

Multiple Models and Styles

When I said that the possibilities are endless earlier, that is very true. Ductless mini split systems are available in many shapes, sizes, and installation profiles.

There are systems that provide wide-area coverage, ceiling cassette units that are ideal for single rooms and smaller open areas, and multi split systems that are large enough that they could replace traditional HVAC systems.

No matter your requirements, there is a ductless mini split system that will meet your needs.

No Ductwork Required

Ductwork requires maintenance. Cleaning and repairing ductwork can be a headache. Ductless mini split systems do not require ductwork by placing an air handler in the exact spot you want to heat or cool.

Mini split systems provide a ductless HVAC system that requires less maintenance than traditional HVAC systems.

Have a question about Ductless AC Systems?

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

 

 

4 Damages to Your HVAC System Resulting From Forgetting Your AC Filter Change

After almost 75 years of experience and thousands 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.

AC Filter Change Tip 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 the 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?

AC Filter Change Tip 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, which causes the thermostat calls 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?

AC Filter Change Tip 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 system is typically 20 years or more; poor maintenance can reduce the life span by 5 years or more.

When was the last time you replaced your air filter?

AC Filter Change Tip 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 with AC Filter Changes?

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

Your HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Spring

Without a doubt, seasonal HVAC Maintenance of your AC system helps ensure it will run as efficiently as possible. Don’t take our word for it—hear it from the Department of Energy.

Some of the maintenance tasks your air conditioner needs are simple and can be completed by most homeowners. Some tasks take specialized equipment and training and should not be attempted by the average homeowner. Below is a list of maintenance tasks that should be completed annually. This will let homeowners determine whether they are prepared to complete the tasks, or if they need to call a professional HVAC maintenance technician.

1. Change the air filter every three months. When your AC cycles on, the blower motor is drawing the entire volume of air in your house every 1 or 2 minutes, depending on the size of the house and the power of the blower motor. If the AC cycle lasts 15 minutes, the air filter is removing airborne particles each trip through. When airborne particles clog the filter, it reduces the airflow and causes stress on the system. This is easily a do-it-yourself project. Just change the air filter.
2. Maintain the thermostat. The thermostat is the sensor and switch combination that turns your HVAC system on and off. The thermostat batteries will need to be changed periodically, and it is an easy DIY project. A technician can demonstrate scheduling temperature changes on your programmable or smart thermostats. A good HVAC schedule can save as much as 10 percent on your monthly utility bill.
3. Inspect and clean all indoor equipment. Dust and allergens that make it past the air filter often collect on interior surfaces and electrical components inside the AC cabinet. A technician can clean away the dust, test the capacitors, and switches to make sure they are all functioning properly. The evaporator coils and drain pan need to be cleaned annually to remove the dust particles trapped by the moisture.
4. Clear the air conditioner drain. If dust and debris are not removed from the drain pan before the AC is turned on, the debris can clog the drain tube. If the clog is not removed water will overflow the drain pan and leak onto the surrounding floors. This can lead to water damage to floors, walls, and furnishings, a costly mistake.
5. Test refrigerant gas levels. The AC uses a refrigerant gas that is compressed to between 65 and 70 pounds per square inch. Under high pressure, the gas will find any weakness in the system for escape. An HVAC Maintenance professional will test the gas level and replenish the supply as needed. This takes someone licensed to handle the gases. A technician can also determine whether repairs are needed to stop a leak.
6. Check all the electrical connections. Since the AC has moving parts, vibrations can lead to wear, damage, and even loose connections. A technician will know where to look for these connections and can repair or replace them as needed.
7. Inspect and clean the outdoor equipment. The compressor unit found outside your house must be kept clean and free of debris. The unit’s central fan is drawing air in and up, to cool the hot refrigerant gas. Cooling this gas is vitally important; failure to cool will lead to a very expensive component failure. If you do not care to clean this unit adequately, a technician will make sure leaves and grass clippings are cleared away and the tiny opening surrounding the unit is kept free of dirt to ensure adequate airflow.
8. Inspect and clean the ductwork. Supply air ducts run from your AC to each room in the house and return air ducts run from various regions of the house back to the AC. Ducts should be clean and inspected occasionally. Dust can accumulate inside ducts, especially at drops and turns. Since the sheet metal of the ducts is constantly expanding and contracting, leaks and gaps can develop allowing conditioned air to leak out into unconditioned areas. Inspection and repair will take specialized equipment.

Need help with Springtime HVAC Maintenance?

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

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.