Tag: air conditioning installation

AC Repair Tips You Can Try at Home

Garfield Elliott HVAC , , , , ,

Your AC works hard to keep your house cool, so nothing’s more frustrating than when it stops working. Luckily, there are some easy AC Repair Round Rock steps you can try at home to get the cool air flowing again.

Start by checking your breaker panel. If your breaker is tripped, flip it back on.

1. Frozen Evaporator Coils

One of the most common AC repair issues that homeowners face is frozen evaporator coils. This is caused when dust and debris build up on the coils, blocking them from absorbing heat. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent this issue from occurring and minimize the damage that it causes.

AC Repair

If you notice ice on your AC unit, turn off the system and adjust the thermostat to the fan setting. This will allow the system to circulate air over the coils and help the ice melt faster. Also, be sure to place an old towel near the system to absorb any dripping water from the melting ice and avoid potential water damage to your home.

Another way to prevent ac coils from freezing is to ensure that there are no obstructions in the return vents. This can be a result of furniture or other items blocking the vents, as well as clogged filters. Changing your air filter frequently and using a basic pleated filter that allows for good air flow will help keep the evaporator coils clear of debris.

When you have a problem with your evaporator coils, it’s important to contact an HVAC expert as soon as possible. This will not only ensure that the problem is fixed quickly, but it can also help prevent additional problems from developing.

If the problem is not addressed promptly, it can lead to the evaporator coils becoming completely frozen. This can cause the refrigerant lines and other components of the system to freeze as well, requiring costly AC repairs.

Other signs that your evaporator coils are frozen include warm air coming from your vents, low indoor temperature levels, or hissing or bubbling noises from the system. A professional air conditioning technician can address these issues and determine the root cause of the problem to prevent it from happening in the future.

2. Service Valve Damage

Located at the bottom of your condenser, your AC’s service valve allows refrigerant to flow from the system’s condenser to the indoor unit without stopping the cooling process. While the function of this component is straightforward, it can get damaged by a variety of issues, including clogged inlet screens, incorrect bulb placement, contaminants in the valve, positioning problems, and even loss of power. When this happens, it can produce clanging and banging noises that are loud and unsettling. It’s a good idea to call for AC repair services right away if you hear these sounds.

Faulty expansion valves can also cause various AC problems, like inconsistent air temperature and frost on the evaporator coils. These issues often arise because of contamination, moisture, and improper installation. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent these problems.

Your AC’s expansion valve is responsible for regulating the amount of liquid refrigerant that enters the evaporator coil. It’s important to understand this part of the process so you can recognize potential signs of a faulty expansion valve, such as insufficient cooling, high cabin temperatures, and unusual noises.

An air conditioner that’s blowing cold air but only in small quantities is a sign of a problem with the expansion valve. This means the valve isn’t properly controlling the amount of liquid refrigerant that goes to the evaporator coils. This can lead to a loss of cooling efficiency and increased energy bills, so it’s crucial that you take action when you notice this problem.

In most cases, it’s best to repair a faulty expansion valve rather than replace it. However, this decision depends on the severity of the problem and whether or not the valve is old. A repair can suffice if the valve has minor clogging or a refrigerant leak, but if the damage is extensive and affects the system’s performance, replacement might be a better option. If you’re not sure, an experienced technician can help you determine the best solution for your particular cooling needs. This is why it’s so important to have a dependable HVAC company in your corner.

3. Capacitor Damage

The air conditioner capacitor is a small but vital component that sends energy to the motor in your AC unit. It’s located inside the outdoor portion of your air conditioning system, also known as the condenser, and it can get damaged or wear down from daily use, weather, and other factors. If you notice the signs of bad AC capacitor symptoms, contact a professional to have it replaced so your cooling system can work as efficiently as possible.

Capacitors can overheat if your AC runs too hard for long periods of time. This puts a strain on the capacitor to keep up with demand for cool air, which can cause it to overheat and burn out. Regularly cleaning your coils and scheduling regular maintenance appointments can help reduce the stress on your AC capacitor during peak cooling times.

Like any electrical component, capacitors can be damaged by power surges. Lightning strikes and other power issues can overload the capacitor, causing it to burn out and fail. This is why it’s so important to protect your AC capacitor with a surge protector, which can absorb sudden spikes in energy and prevent them from harming your system or damaging the capacitor.

Often, the first sign of a failing capacitor is an unusual burning smell. As the capacitor overheats, it will produce smoke that can smell pungent or acidic due to the chemicals in it. If you notice this sign, shut off your air conditioner and call an HVAC technician to have the capacitor replaced before the problem gets worse.

A failing capacitor can also produce humming noises when it malfunctions. This is a surefire sign that you need to replace your air conditioner capacitor before the summer heat starts getting unbearable.

Capacitors aren’t indestructible, but they can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance and care. If yours is older than that, it’s likely time to have it replaced to keep your home comfortable and save on energy bills. An experienced professional will note the voltage and micro-Farad rating of your capacitor so they can find a new one that matches.

4. Damaged Fin

The fins on your AC unit are responsible for directing air flow inside and outside the unit. When they become bent or damaged, the air flow is interrupted, and it can cause your AC system to overheat. To avoid this, inspect the fins and condenser coils regularly for signs of damage. If you find that they are bent or have any other problems, you can use a fin comb to straighten them out and restore proper air flow. Make sure you clean the unit before you do this, and you may need to remove the protective grille from the unit to access the fins.

The fins are thin wavy metal pieces that cover the outside of your AC unit, and they help transfer heat. However, the fins can get bent or damaged, which causes your system to work harder to cool your home. This can lead to higher energy bills and reduced cooling performance.

A clogged or dirty air filter can also affect your AC unit’s performance. It can block airflow, causing the unit to overheat and shut off. This is a common AC problem that can be easily fixed by replacing or cleaning your air filter.

Other common AC issues include a frozen evaporator coil, loud noises, tripped breakers, and blowing hot or no air. Keeping your unit well-maintained will prevent many of these issues, as well as extending its life span.

If you have an older unit that has reached the end of its life expectancy, it may be time to consider a replacement. A newer AC system can be more efficient than your current one, and it will save you money on utility bills and repair costs in the long run. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive AC services. We can handle repairs, replace parts, and perform system optimizations to keep your unit in top condition. Our experienced technicians will be happy to answer any questions you have.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Stephen Tanner Home Services , , , , ,

Water Damage Restoration Utah is the process of returning property to its state before water intrusion. It involves a series of steps, including assessment, inspection, water extraction, drying, and dehumidification.

Structural materials like drywall and carpeting often must be removed before the drying process begins. Professionals also utilize tools like air movers and dehumidifiers to speed up the process.

Before the water damage restoration professionals can start the cleanup process, you need to make sure your home or business is as dry as possible. You should remove any valuables or furniture, open up the space and use fans or dehumidifiers to encourage air flow. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause serious health problems.

Next, the restoration experts need to assess the amount of water damage. This involves identifying the source of the water intrusion and locating all affected areas. This is important because it allows the technicians to create an effective remediation plan sooner. It also helps them avoid wasting time and resources on a job that won’t produce results.

The assessment also includes determining what category the water damage falls under. Category one is clean, while category two and three are considered contaminated and need special cleaning techniques. The assessment will also include assessing the safety of the property’s occupants, which may involve shutting off electricity or gas and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in areas with mold or sewage contamination.

Once the assessment is complete, the restoration professionals can begin water extraction and removal. This involves removing all items like carpet and flooring, drywall (only the damaged portions are cut away from the studs), paneling, shelving and cabinets. This can take some time, but it’s necessary to reduce the amount of water and speed up the drying process.

Inspection

Once water damage restoration professionals have shut off the building’s water supply and electricity (if necessary), they’ll inspect the premises. This involves looking at furniture, carpets, and other furnishings to determine how much water they’ve absorbed. They’ll also look for signs of structural damage or mold development. The inspection will reveal the water damage’s category and classification, which will help create a plan to restore the property.

Depending on the situation, they may have to remove furnishings or building materials that can’t be saved. They might also need to throw out items that are overly saturated with water or could breed mold. This step can be a big one, but it’s essential for getting your property back to normal as quickly as possible.

After removing the excess water, they’ll use fans and commercial-grade dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas. This will prevent any future damage and stop a musty smell from developing. They’ll also monitor moisture levels to ensure the affected areas are drying properly. Then, they’ll apply sanitizing and odour-eliminating products to the property. This will inhibit the growth of mildew, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause additional problems. They’ll also use personal protective equipment to ensure their safety while doing so.

Extraction

Whether caused by a natural disaster or a household malfunction, water intrusions demand immediate attention. Leaving even an inch of standing water behind can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and dangerous bacteria that can cause illnesses and allergies. That’s why the first step of any water remediation project is to drain and extract all excess water.

This step is known as water extraction and involves the use of powerful pumps, truck-mounted vacuum units and other advanced tools that can remove hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water in a short amount of time. This can reduce drying times dramatically and help prevent further damage to your home or business.

After removing visible pockets of water, professional technicians inspect the area for more hidden moisture in porous materials like drywall and carpet. Moisture detectors, hygrometers, and infrared cameras can identify problem areas. If necessary, professionals can remove and replace impacted drywall, flooring and rugs.

Water remediation can also include sanitizing affected areas with disinfectants and deodorizers to protect against microbial growth, and cleaning and drying all exposed structures and contents. If items are unsalvageable, they’re hauled away for disposal. This process can also include sanitizing the affected water source, such as a leaking pipe, to prevent future issues.

Dehumidification

Dehumidification is an important step in the restoration process because it reduces humidity levels and prevents secondary damage. It also helps to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew and promotes a healthier environment.

During this stage, water restoration professionals use air movers to dry out the affected areas and position dehumidifiers around the property. The equipment is set to run continuously until moisture levels are back to normal. It is important to note that the dehumidifiers should not be moved or turned off because it could cause further damage.

A commercial or industrial building with hardwood floors needs dehumidification to protect them from warping and swelling. Warehouses in hot and humid climates also require dehumidification to control humidity levels, as do gymnasiums and other physical fitness centers.

Home Restoration NYC provides residential and commercial properties with emergency services including water and moisture extraction, damage repair, mold remediation, flood cleanup, and fire restoration. Its technicians are available around the clock and can help with insurance claims. Its services also include carpet cleaning, drywall repair, smoke damage removal, and mold prevention. It has more than 30 years of experience and can handle various kinds of damage to a home or business.

Structural Drying

Structural drying is the process of removing excess moisture from building materials and structural components after water damage. It prevents mold growth and building deterioration, reduces restoration costs, and shortens recovery time. When performed promptly, it also minimizes health hazards caused by fungal and microbial growth.

It requires specialized equipment and trained professionals. The process involves a series of steps, including water extraction, air movement and ventilation, and dehumidification. Water extraction is the first step in a comprehensive structural drying strategy. Professionals use submersible pumps or wet vacuums to remove standing water. They also assess the moisture content of building materials and determine appropriate drying methods based on their findings.

Once they’ve removed the majority of the water, they work to evaporate remaining moisture using specialized tools. This helps speed up the drying process and protects your belongings.

The Applied Structural Drying certification offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) gives restorers a thorough understanding of how to effectively and efficiently dry structures in the aftermath of a disaster. It is a great way for them to enhance their skills and increase their chances of landing jobs in the field. Moreover, it allows them to provide superior services to their customers.

Cleaning

Once the water has been removed and the affected areas have been dried, cleaning and sanitizing begins. This step is especially important for addressing any black water damage (water that contains harmful pathogens) or gray water damage (water from washing machines, dishwashers, or toilets with solid waste).

This is also the time to remove any items that are unsalvageable from the home. It is also recommended that you take precautions when working in flooded areas, such as wearing protective gloves, head protection, and respiratory protection.

A professional can help you determine the source and cause of your flood. They can recommend the right procedures for restoring your home and will work with you and your insurance company to get the job done quickly. This will help you minimize the risk of permanent damage and the need for costly repairs down the line. Additionally, the faster the water is cleaned up, the less likely it is that mildew and mold will develop. This is why it is so important to contact a certified IICRC water restoration expert immediately!

Repairs

Once the source of water intrusion has been stopped and the structural integrity of your home has been assessed, it’s time to start repairing and restoring your property. This includes removing contents like furniture and personal belongings from affected areas, as well as addressing any building materials that are beyond repair. In some cases, this may include removing drywall down to the studs or carpeting down to the subflooring if it cannot be saved.

This is also the time to consider your insurance coverage, if applicable. Inspecting your policy and thoroughly documenting all affected areas and items will help streamline the insurance claims process and ensure you receive proper compensation.

It’s important to remember that wet materials begin to develop mold within 24 hours, so it’s critical to get started on the restoration process as quickly as possible. The key is to hire an experienced professional that uses commercial-grade equipment designed to dry out large areas quickly and efficiently, while minimizing damage to your home. This includes fans, dehumidifiers, and specialized tools that allow for faster and more thorough drying. It’s also a good idea to open windows and doors throughout your home to promote airflow and hasten the drying process.