How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced – What is done in AC servicing?

One integral part of your home that needs to be checked and serviced on a regular basis is your air conditioning unit. Why? Simple – it can save you dollars for maintenance and repair and keep you away from hassle and stress. Wondering how often should air conditioning units be serviced? Read on and find out below.

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

You shouldn’t wait until your AC smells like burning plastic to have it serviced. Summer is fast approaching, and this means you better ensure your air conditioning unit works well as the days become hotter. Let’s get ready for the rising temperature, 

When is the Best Time to Service My AC Unit?

Most experts agree that home air conditioning and heating systems be serviced at least once a year. The best time to do this is during spring. To guarantee the proper functioning of and maintain your system, however, you should regularly do some housekeeping duties.

Can I Service My AC Unit the DIY Way?

Do you love DIY-ing stuff? If you are wondering if you can do the servicing of your AC yourself, the short answer is yes, When it comes to servicing air

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

conditioning units, you do not necessarily need an expert (although it is highly recommended especially if you are not familiar with the different parts of your AC system).

Here are some AC maintenance tips you can do yourself to make the air conditioner work better before calling a professional.

• Changing the air filter

Changing the air filter is one of the easiest ways to service your AC unit. The process is simple: you just need to know where the slot for the filter is, take out the old one, and then insert the new filter. What is important is you take note of the airflow direction and the side of the filter that needs to be facing out. If you are new to this, check your unit’s manual for instructions on filter replacement and the appropriate filter size.

Air filters have varying strengths and ratings, and they should be replaced at least every 90 days. But how often you should change your AC’s air filter and the type to use largely depend on your lifestyle. Consider the presence of allergies and if you are living with pets. For example, if you have pets or have children who are sensitive to allergens, you may choose to replace your system’s air filter every month.

• Cleaning and housekeeping

Want to know how to make AC colder in house? Well, maintaining your AC system does not end with changing the air filter; you also need to make sure your indoor vents are spotless. It is simple: mix one cup of bleach and water and pour the solution down the outside unit’s drain. This will prevent the growth of algae and mold.

Next, ensure that the unit is on a level surface and is properly insulated around refrigerant lines. Check for the presence of any debris that can clog it. Also, ensure that its surrounding is clear at least by two feet.

For safety reasons, you should do all of the above with the outside unit closed. If there is a need to open it up, consider getting help from a professional.

• Assessing the performance of your AC

The next maintenance task is to assess the performance of your unit. Turn it on and observe how it performs. Is your house getting cooler? Does it sound during operation or is it quiet? Is it performing well and normally?

You may notice a strange odor as soon as you turn on your air conditioning. Don’t worry, it is normal and is the machine’s way of clearing out dust that has set. It should disappear soon.

When to Ask Help from Experts

You have turned your air conditioning on one hot day, only to find out it does not blow cool air, or it keeps on producing a strange sound while functioning. Well, something is surely wrong about your unit and it is high time you ask the help of a professional as soon as possible. Do not make the mistake of ignoring something seemingly trivial and be sorry when it blows into a major issue or costly repair or replacement,

Questions

How often should you have your air conditioner serviced?

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

Many professionals in the field agree that air conditioning units need to be checked and serviced at least once a year – even if there is no sign that the unit has problems. This is to ensure it functions at peak efficiency and is ready to cool your home during the summer.

Is it necessary to service AC every year?

Yes, it is, AC units require servicing at least once a year. This is to prevent any problems and unwanted expenses in the future. You can hire a contractor to perform annual pre-season maintenance to ensure your cooling and heating system is at maximum performance.

What is included in AC maintenance?

The inspection of the following parts should be included in air conditioning maintenance:

• Blower
• Coils
• Connections
• Motor
• Operating pressures and temperatures
• Refrigerant levels
• Return and supply lines

Your air conditioning unit is a vital machine in your home, particularly during the warmer weather. This is the reason it is important to regularly maintain and service your AC. But how often should air conditioning units be serviced? It is recommended to service your AC unit at least once a year to ensure it is performing at maximum efficiency. Whether you have a question about R22 refrigerant or how to save money on your AC bill, our professionals here at Worlock can assist you.

The post How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced – What is done in AC servicing? appeared first on AC Repair Phoenix – Voted #1 in Air Conditioning Installation & Repair.

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced – What is done in AC servicing?

One integral part of your home that needs to be checked and serviced on a regular basis is your air conditioning unit. Why? Simple – it can save you dollars for maintenance and repair and keep you away from hassle and stress. Wondering how often should air conditioning units be serviced? Read on and find out below.

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

You shouldn’t wait until your AC smells like burning plastic to have it serviced. Summer is fast approaching, and this means you better ensure your air conditioning unit works well as the days become hotter. Let’s get ready for the rising temperature, 

When is the Best Time to Service My AC Unit?

Most experts agree that home air conditioning and heating systems be serviced at least once a year. The best time to do this is during spring. To guarantee the proper functioning of and maintain your system, however, you should regularly do some housekeeping duties.

Can I Service My AC Unit the DIY Way?

Do you love DIY-ing stuff? If you are wondering if you can do the servicing of your AC yourself, the short answer is yes, When it comes to servicing air

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

conditioning units, you do not necessarily need an expert (although it is highly recommended especially if you are not familiar with the different parts of your AC system).

Here are some AC maintenance tips you can do yourself to make the air conditioner work better before calling a professional.

• Changing the air filter

Changing the air filter is one of the easiest ways to service your AC unit. The process is simple: you just need to know where the slot for the filter is, take out the old one, and then insert the new filter. What is important is you take note of the airflow direction and the side of the filter that needs to be facing out. If you are new to this, check your unit’s manual for instructions on filter replacement and the appropriate filter size.

Air filters have varying strengths and ratings, and they should be replaced at least every 90 days. But how often you should change your AC’s air filter and the type to use largely depend on your lifestyle. Consider the presence of allergies and if you are living with pets. For example, if you have pets or have children who are sensitive to allergens, you may choose to replace your system’s air filter every month.

• Cleaning and housekeeping

Want to know how to make AC colder in house? Well, maintaining your AC system does not end with changing the air filter; you also need to make sure your indoor vents are spotless. It is simple: mix one cup of bleach and water and pour the solution down the outside unit’s drain. This will prevent the growth of algae and mold.

Next, ensure that the unit is on a level surface and is properly insulated around refrigerant lines. Check for the presence of any debris that can clog it. Also, ensure that its surrounding is clear at least by two feet.

For safety reasons, you should do all of the above with the outside unit closed. If there is a need to open it up, consider getting help from a professional.

• Assessing the performance of your AC

The next maintenance task is to assess the performance of your unit. Turn it on and observe how it performs. Is your house getting cooler? Does it sound during operation or is it quiet? Is it performing well and normally?

You may notice a strange odor as soon as you turn on your air conditioning. Don’t worry, it is normal and is the machine’s way of clearing out dust that has set. It should disappear soon.

When to Ask Help from Experts

You have turned your air conditioning on one hot day, only to find out it does not blow cool air, or it keeps on producing a strange sound while functioning. Well, something is surely wrong about your unit and it is high time you ask the help of a professional as soon as possible. Do not make the mistake of ignoring something seemingly trivial and be sorry when it blows into a major issue or costly repair or replacement,

Questions

How often should you have your air conditioner serviced?

How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced

Many professionals in the field agree that air conditioning units need to be checked and serviced at least once a year – even if there is no sign that the unit has problems. This is to ensure it functions at peak efficiency and is ready to cool your home during the summer.

Is it necessary to service AC every year?

Yes, it is, AC units require servicing at least once a year. This is to prevent any problems and unwanted expenses in the future. You can hire a contractor to perform annual pre-season maintenance to ensure your cooling and heating system is at maximum performance.

What is included in AC maintenance?

The inspection of the following parts should be included in air conditioning maintenance:

• Blower
• Coils
• Connections
• Motor
• Operating pressures and temperatures
• Refrigerant levels
• Return and supply lines

Your air conditioning unit is a vital machine in your home, particularly during the warmer weather. This is the reason it is important to regularly maintain and service your AC. But how often should air conditioning units be serviced? It is recommended to service your AC unit at least once a year to ensure it is performing at maximum efficiency. Whether you have a question about R22 refrigerant or how to save money on your AC bill, our professionals here at Worlock can assist you.

The post How Often Should Air Conditioning Units be Serviced – What is done in AC servicing? appeared first on AC Repair Phoenix – Voted #1 in Air Conditioning Installation & Repair.

What is R22 Refrigerant Used For?

If your air conditioner system was installed before or early 2010, it probably operates on R22 refrigerant. Nowadays, R22 is not used as it was phased out of production. It became so because it was found out that it plays a part in aggravating to ozone depletion and global warming. This post is intended to help you understand what is R22 refrigerant used for and how you can replace it.

What is R22 Refrigerant Used For?

Also known as hydrochlorofluorocarbon 22 (HCFC-22), its chemical name, R22 refrigerant has long been utilized in several appliances and

What is R22 Refrigerant Used For?

equipment, such as central air conditioners, car air conditioner systems, and heat pumps. The function of R22 is to absorb and remove heat from a vacuum. Therefore, if you are looking to have a cooler home, R22 was used to keep cool air running through the AC units. 

Unfortunately, R22 is a greenhouse gas contributing to ozone layer depletion and global warming in general. Remember that the ozone layer of the Earth is essential for absorbing destructive UV radiation, so identifying and getting rid of the use of greenhouse gas is the right thing to do to help protect the ozone. This is the reason the Clean Air Act and the Montreal Protocol Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was put in place and implemented the phase-out of R22 refrigerant.

When Will R22 be Completely Phased Out?

The R22 refrigerant phase out will be completed by January 1, 2020. In the US, new or imported R22 will not be permitted, and service technicians that will be repairing equipment will only be able to use recycled and reclaimed R22, as well as those that were previously manufactured.

What is a Safe Alternative to R22?

Air conditioners and other cooling equipment that is currently produced operate on hydro-fluorocarbon refrigerants. Commonly used R22 alternative refrigerants including R410A, R134a, R407A, and R407C. They do the job of absorbing heat and cooling interior spaces effectively minus the negative effect on the environment. These refrigerants also have comparatively low Global Warming Potential (GWP).

What if My AC System Runs on R22?

If your air conditioning system was installed before or early 2010, it probably operates on R22. To be sure, you can check the type of refrigerant used in the nameplate of your unit.

If it is R22 but is still functioning normally, no need to replace your system. If, however, it requires servicing, there are a few options you can take:

• Continue using R22.

You can still use your existing AC system and have it serviced using R22; however, note that R22 supplies are more costly and limited. Also, remember two things: older air conditioners using R22 can possibly not run efficiently and R22 cost will continue to increase due to limited production.

• Change R22 to a drop-in refrigerant.

You can use a drop-in refrigerant in place of R22. While drop-in refrigerants are good for an instant, temporary repair and also function okay, one disadvantage is decreased performance and reliability. That is why drop-in refrigerants are not ideal for a long-term replacement.

• Get a new system.

Want to contribute in saving the environment while cutting down on repair costs? Consider installing a new AC system, especially if yours is already 10 years old and above. Newer systems operate on safer refrigerants like R410s and can be beneficial if you are planning to sell your home.

Unfortunately, R410 refrigerants are not compatible with R22 units. Do not make the mistake of using the incorrect refrigerant if you do not want to damage your system.

How to Properly Dispose of R22?

Choosing to replace your old AC system means you need to dispose of the old one. To dispose it properly, ask an EPA-certified technician to drain the refrigerant lines. Remember not to cut refrigerant lines or take out the compressor before draining as it is illegal under the Clean Air Act and Freon Law Change 2020.

Questions

Can you still use R22 refrigerant?

R22 manufacturing and import were prohibited in early 2010, but servicing existing systems is still allowed as long as there is an available R22

What is R22 Refrigerant Used For?

supply. After the phase-out completion in 2020, only recycled R22 refrigerants can be used for servicing.

Can you buy R22 after 2020?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the set date for the total phase-out of R22 in the US is January 1, 2020, so by that date, the production and import of the refrigerant will be prohibited and will become illegal.

Do I have to replace my R22 air conditioner?

Replacing your R22 air conditioner is recommended as early as possible to save money and time. That is because after January 1, 2020, your existing R22 system cannot be serviced if there is no available R22, so it will only be a matter of time before you are forced to change your system into a newer one.

Air-conditioning systems installed before 2010 most likely have R22 refrigerant. What is R22 refrigerant used for? R22 refrigerant is used in older air conditioner systems to absorb and remove heat in an enclosed space. However, R22 is a greenhouse gas, which means it contributes to the destruction of the ozone layer and global warming. The US EPA started to phase out R22 in 2010 and set the final phase-out date on January 1, 2010. So if you have an existing R22 AC system, it’s time you change it into a newer one. If you need more information on R22, our HVAC experts here at Worklock Air can answer your inquiries. 

The post What is R22 Refrigerant Used For? appeared first on AC Repair Phoenix – Voted #1 in Air Conditioning Installation & Repair.

Magnetic Air Conditioners

People living in warm climates get tempted to start using A/C as the average temperature of the earth starts rising. Although according to the Department of Energy of the U.S., traditionally used residential air conditioners consume almost 16% of the total electricity used in all domestic units in the U.S. In such condition, the day is not far away until magnetic air conditioners will help in keeping the interior of your homes cool without heating its exterior.

Working of Traditional A/C

The working of traditional air conditioners depends upon converting the liquid refrigerant into a gas by absorbing heat from external air and converting the gas into liquid again by cooling and compressing it. In the magnetic air conditioners, they will use magnets instead of refrigerants and compressors to cool the air around you.

Magnetic Air Conditioners

Use of Magnetocaloric Effect

Magnetocaloric effect is the basic concept used in magnet based A/Cs. The materials used in magnets heat up when entering in a magnetic field and cool down when removed from it. In 1881, Emil Warburg, a German physicist, discovered this magnetocaloric effect initially but the small change in temperature was not adequate for practical usage. Recently, certain groups of researchers have developed metal alloys that show magnetocaloric effect, at room temperature, to a considerably larger amount.

Working of Magnet Based Air Conditioners

These air conditioners will cool the air by exposing the material of its magnets to a magnetic field repeatedly and quickly to produce a greater amount of magnetocaloric effect. U.S. DOE’s Ames (Iowa) Laboratory in collaboration with Astronautics Corporation of America has developed a prototype in which a wheel containing gadolinium, a rare earth element, spins through a stationary magnetic field to heat up its material. It cools down while passing through the gap in the field to cool down the water surrounding it through its repeated spins.

Environmentally Friendly

The technology used in latest magnet based air conditioner is environment friendly as it does not need HCFCs or hydrochlorofluorocarbons used in traditional air conditioners as a refrigerant as its alloy works as refrigerant and heat are transferred by using old water. Though it may need electricity to spin its alloy disk, it can still be much less than what’s required to run compressor of traditional A/Cs.

Future of a Magnet Based Air Conditioner

Many government agencies, universities and private companies along with researchers all over the world are trying to develop the technology of magnetic cooling for running refrigerators and air conditioners to control climatic effect for domestic and industrial usage.

Bottom Line

Although magnetic air conditioners have been proven to be more environmentally friendly than installing a traditional air conditioning system, they still have ways to go before people can begin implementing these systems in their homes. The commercial production of magnetic air conditioners is still a few years away, even if several people are working on improving the technology for them.

The post Magnetic Air Conditioners appeared first on AC Repair Phoenix – Voted #1 in Air Conditioning Installation & Repair.

Magnetic Air Conditioners

People living in warm climates get tempted to start using A/C as the average temperature of the earth starts rising. Although according to the Department of Energy of the U.S., traditionally used residential air conditioners consume almost 16% of the total electricity used in all domestic units in the U.S. In such condition, the day is not far away until magnetic air conditioners will help in keeping the interior of your homes cool without heating its exterior.

Working of Traditional A/C

The working of traditional air conditioners depends upon converting the liquid refrigerant into a gas by absorbing heat from external air and converting the gas into liquid again by cooling and compressing it. In the magnetic air conditioners, they will use magnets instead of refrigerants and compressors to cool the air around you.

Magnetic Air Conditioners

Use of Magnetocaloric Effect

Magnetocaloric effect is the basic concept used in magnet based A/Cs. The materials used in magnets heat up when entering in a magnetic field and cool down when removed from it. In 1881, Emil Warburg, a German physicist, discovered this magnetocaloric effect initially but the small change in temperature was not adequate for practical usage. Recently, certain groups of researchers have developed metal alloys that show magnetocaloric effect, at room temperature, to a considerably larger amount.

Working of Magnet Based Air Conditioners

These air conditioners will cool the air by exposing the material of its magnets to a magnetic field repeatedly and quickly to produce a greater amount of magnetocaloric effect. U.S. DOE’s Ames (Iowa) Laboratory in collaboration with Astronautics Corporation of America has developed a prototype in which a wheel containing gadolinium, a rare earth element, spins through a stationary magnetic field to heat up its material. It cools down while passing through the gap in the field to cool down the water surrounding it through its repeated spins.

Environmentally Friendly

The technology used in latest magnet based air conditioner is environment friendly as it does not need HCFCs or hydrochlorofluorocarbons used in traditional air conditioners as a refrigerant as its alloy works as refrigerant and heat are transferred by using old water. Though it may need electricity to spin its alloy disk, it can still be much less than what’s required to run compressor of traditional A/Cs.

Future of a Magnet Based Air Conditioner

Many government agencies, universities and private companies along with researchers all over the world are trying to develop the technology of magnetic cooling for running refrigerators and air conditioners to control climatic effect for domestic and industrial usage.

Bottom Line

Although magnetic air conditioners have been proven to be more environmentally friendly than installing a traditional air conditioning system, they still have ways to go before people can begin implementing these systems in their homes. The commercial production of magnetic air conditioners is still a few years away, even if several people are working on improving the technology for them.

The post Magnetic Air Conditioners appeared first on AC Repair Phoenix – Voted #1 in Air Conditioning Installation & Repair.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bill

During summers, you can take some preventive measure to save your energy bill. Otherwise, you will be ended up spending more. If you want to know how to save money on air conditioning bill, you can consider the following tips.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bill

 

Use Your Ceiling Fan

You can use ceiling fans during summer to stay cool. A ceiling fan can make you feel a minimum of six-degrees cooler through the wind-chill effect. It is true that your ceiling will not make your entire home cool. But it can make you comfortable inside the home.  Yes, you should not forget to turn off the fan while not using it. That will save your energy bill. If you use an air conditioner a few hours in a day, it will make your home environment relatively cool. In this condition, a ceiling fan can be very effective to protect you from the hot climate.

Use AC Economically

While using your AC, you can set the temperature as high as possible and use a programmable thermostat to boost the temperature when you are in asleep. It will save your energy bill up to ten percent. When there is more difference between the inside and outside temperature, you are going to spend more on the energy bill.  You can set your temperature to 72ºF to save eighteen percent on the electric bill.

Regular Maintenance

In addition to installing a programmable thermostat or economical use, you will have to maintain your unit regularly to save the energy bill.  Otherwise, all your efforts will not help. The dirty AC filters will make your AC to work harder for cooling. With regular maintenance, you can reduce the energy bill five to fifteen percent.  If you are using a central cooling system, then make sure that dust or your furniture has not blocked its floor registers.  Also, clean the condenser coils and evaporator to optimize the performance as well as to reduce the energy bill.  

Avoid Heat Buildup

When the temperature of outside exceeds the inside temperature of your home, you should avoid doing all the activities that generate more heat such as cooking or using a clothes dryers.  The heating elements will increase the heat further. Instead, you can use the microwave or hang your clothes for drying up. You can avoid heating until the dark. After the dark, the temperature will drop naturally and then you can do the cooking or similar kind of things.  Also, while bathing, you will have to use the exhaust fan to remove the humidity and excess heat. Avoid using TVs, computers, and stereos to limit heat.

Close Curtains and Blinds

By doing this, you will notice a significant improvement in your indoor air. In addition, it will save your energy bill in a great manner.  You can use highly reflective blinds to reduce the heat up to forty-five percent.  You can hang shades close to your window panes to block the outdoor heat from entering inside.

With the above tips, you might have an idea on how to save money on air conditioning bill.  Follow these simple steps to reduce your cooling bill significantly. Worlock Air has skilled professionals able to assist any of your air conditioning needs.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bill

During summers, you can take some preventive measure to save your energy bill. Otherwise, you will be ended up spending more. If you want to know how to save money on air conditioning bill, you can consider the following tips.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bill

 

Use Your Ceiling Fan

You can use ceiling fans during summer to stay cool. A ceiling fan can make you feel a minimum of six-degrees cooler through the wind-chill effect. It is true that your ceiling will not make your entire home cool. But it can make you comfortable inside the home.  Yes, you should not forget to turn off the fan while not using it. That will save your energy bill. If you use an air conditioner a few hours in a day, it will make your home environment relatively cool. In this condition, a ceiling fan can be very effective to protect you from the hot climate.

Use AC Economically

While using your AC, you can set the temperature as high as possible and use a programmable thermostat to boost the temperature when you are in asleep. It will save your energy bill up to ten percent. When there is more difference between the inside and outside temperature, you are going to spend more on the energy bill.  You can set your temperature to 72ºF to save eighteen percent on the electric bill.

Regular Maintenance

In addition to installing a programmable thermostat or economical use, you will have to maintain your unit regularly to save the energy bill.  Otherwise, all your efforts will not help. The dirty AC filters will make your AC to work harder for cooling. With regular maintenance, you can reduce the energy bill five to fifteen percent.  If you are using a central cooling system, then make sure that dust or your furniture has not blocked its floor registers.  Also, clean the condenser coils and evaporator to optimize the performance as well as to reduce the energy bill.  

Avoid Heat Buildup

When the temperature of outside exceeds the inside temperature of your home, you should avoid doing all the activities that generate more heat such as cooking or using a clothes dryers.  The heating elements will increase the heat further. Instead, you can use the microwave or hang your clothes for drying up. You can avoid heating until the dark. After the dark, the temperature will drop naturally and then you can do the cooking or similar kind of things.  Also, while bathing, you will have to use the exhaust fan to remove the humidity and excess heat. Avoid using TVs, computers, and stereos to limit heat.

Close Curtains and Blinds

By doing this, you will notice a significant improvement in your indoor air. In addition, it will save your energy bill in a great manner.  You can use highly reflective blinds to reduce the heat up to forty-five percent.  You can hang shades close to your window panes to block the outdoor heat from entering inside.

With the above tips, you might have an idea on how to save money on air conditioning bill.  Follow these simple steps to reduce your cooling bill significantly. Worlock Air has skilled professionals able to assist any of your air conditioning needs.