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The Right Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner

Not sure whether to call an AC repair near me just yet? Well, it really depends on the current condition of your air conditioner and how old it is. If your AC is 10 or more years old, and it keeps breaking down, you need to ask yourself whether it would cost less to repair it or replace the whole thing. To figure out when it would be best to replace your air conditioner, consider the following factors. 

What Is The Right Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, especially during the hot summer months. However, like all mechanical systems, air conditioners have a limited lifespan, and at some point, they will need to be replaced. Knowing when it is time to replace your air conditioner can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable. In this article, we will discuss the factors that determine when it is the right time to replace your air conditioner.

Has It Been 10+ Years Since The AC Unit Was Installed?

As much as you’d like otherwise, air conditioners are not built to last forever. If your AC unit is nearing 15 years, it is definitely going to display a lot of issues that can lead to costly repairs. As these problems start to occur with alarming frequency, it might be more economical for you to buy a new system.

One of the biggest signs of a failing air conditioner is when you need to call an ac repair near me for major repairs just 1 year after you last had it serviced. If you spent several hundred dollars just last summer to tune up the AC, and it looks like it’s already breaking down, odds are this will continue to happen every year.

Does Your AC Use R-22 Refrigerant? 

If your ac repair tells you (after an inspection) that the refrigerant needs to be replaced, it’s usually due to a coolant leak. In almost all the older models, R-22 (Freon) used to be the refrigerant. However, now R-22 is being phased out by the government as well as the manufacturers because of its extremely high emission levels.

If your AC was installed in the late 2000s, it most definitely uses Freon. And if it needs to be refilled, it’s going to cost you a small fortune these days. Your best option, in this case, is to replace the system and buy a modern unit that’s environmentally friendly.

Are Your Cooling Bills Getting Steeper?

Weather patterns change each year, so it’s natural that your cooling and heating bills will also fluctuate. However, if you notice an incredible spike in your energy bills seemingly out of nowhere, that’s a problem.

san antonio ac repair near meFor example, if the difference between April and June is a $20-$30 or more jump in your utility bill (as opposed to a $5 increase between spring and summer that’s the norm), it’s likely that your air conditioner is consuming too much energy.

Some of the components inside your AC unit might be failing and struggling to perform their most basic functions. Call ac repair to have the system checked out. If you’ve already spent a lot on the unit’s upkeep within the last couple of years, it might be time to say goodbye to it.

Contact UHS For a Free Estimation

If you’re still not sure whether you truly need to replace the system, give us a call. Our technicians will perform a thorough evaluation, and if they think repairing the AC might be a more financially sound decision for you, that’s what they will suggest. Also, our team can do a brand new AC installation for you at a good cost.

United Home Services has been in the business for over 22 years, and we are dedicated to serving you in a way that brings you lasting happiness and satisfaction. Call us at 844-415-1543 or contact us online to schedule an AC inspection today.

When it comes to keeping our homes healthy and our air clean, few services are as critical as air duct cleaning. If you’re anything like me, the thought of unknown particles circulating through the air my family breathes is enough to spur me into action. But not all service providers are created equal. This is where unlocking the mystery of certifications and standards in duct cleaning becomes crucial.

Why Certifications Matter in Duct Cleaning

Think of certifications as a safety net for your home’s air quality. I learned this the hard way when a friend opted for a bargain deal on duct cleaning, only to find her home’s air quality worse after the service. It turned out, the company wasn’t certified, and they had actually loosened more debris and contaminants than they removed!

Certifications in duct cleaning mean that the technicians cleaning your air ducts have been trained to adhere to the highest standards of operation. This training ensures that they not only clean effectively but also safely, reducing the risk of damage to your ductwork and ensuring that no harmful contaminants are spread throughout your home.

Key Certifications in Duct Cleaning

NADCA Certification

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) sets the gold standard for duct cleaning professionals. NADCA-certified providers have undergone rigorous training and adhere to strict guidelines for cleaning to the highest industry standards. When a technician shows up with NADCA certification, you can feel confident they know their craft inside and out.

HVAC Certifications

While not exclusive to duct cleaning, HVAC certifications indicate a comprehensive understanding of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, which is critical because your ductwork is part of a larger system. Technicians with these certifications understand how to optimize your entire HVAC system’s performance, not just clean your ducts.

Understanding Industry Standards

Industry standards are not just bureaucratic red tape. They’re developed by experts and are designed to ensure services are delivered safely and effectively. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t necessarily certify duct cleaners, but they provide guidelines on what constitutes a proper and safe duct cleaning. Following these standards is a key part of navigating the duct cleaning world like a pro.

How to Verify Certifications and Standards

So, how do you ensure you’re hiring someone trustworthy? Start by asking potential service providers about their certifications. A reputable technician won’t hesitate to share their qualifications. You can also look up their credentials online or check with the issuing organizations.

For example, when I needed my ducts cleaned last spring, I made sure to ask for the certification numbers and looked them up on the NADCA website. It gave me peace of mind knowing that the professionals I was letting into my home met all the necessary industry standards.

The Benefits of Choosing a Certified Duct Cleaner

Choosing a certified duct cleaner comes with numerous benefits. First, there’s the assurance of quality and safety. Certified cleaners use the latest and most effective tools and techniques to remove contaminants from your ducts without risking damage to your system or dispersal of pollutants.

Moreover, regular maintenance by certified professionals can extend the life of your HVAC system and improve its efficiency, which can save you money on energy bills. I noticed a decrease in my energy bills after having my ducts properly cleaned—a win for both my wallet and the environment.

Red Flags and Common Misconceptions

It’s important to be aware of the red flags. Be wary of services that offer “too good to be true” deals or don’t provide clear information about their certifications and procedures. Also, ignore the myth that “cleaning your ducts disrupts your home.” Professional cleaners ensure that the process is as non-intrusive as possible.

Conclusion

Investing in a certified duct cleaning service is not just about maintaining your HVAC system; it’s about ensuring the health and safety of your home environment. Just like choosing a doctor or a mechanic, the qualifications and reputation of duct cleaning professionals matter.

Remember, when it comes to the air you breathe, you deserve the best. Don’t hesitate to reach out to certified professionals who can provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your ducts are not just clean, but thoroughly and safely maintained.

Feeling ready to breathe easier? Reach out to your local NADCA certified duct cleaning service today and take the first step towards cleaner, healthier air in your home!

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