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5 Tips To Know That Your AC Needs A Tune-Up

A wise philosopher once said that prevention is better than cure. This is one of those time-tested adages that’s true for a lot of things, especially home maintenance! Regular AC repair and tune-ups are critical to ensure your AC runs smoothly. If your air conditioner is acting strange, you know you have failed to run routine maintenance. In this post, we are going to discuss some common signs that indicate an AC tune-up is long overdue.

5 Signs You Need To Call AC Repair 

In the hot summer months, air conditioning is an essential part of keeping your home or office comfortable. However, just like any other mechanical system, AC units can develop problems over time. Recognizing the signs of an AC unit that needs repair can help prevent major breakdowns and keep your unit running efficiently. In this article, we will discuss five signs that indicate you need to call AC repair. By knowing these signs, you can identify potential issues early on and schedule important AC maintenance to keep your AC unit running smoothly throughout the summer season.

Increased Levels Of Humidity In The Room

Even if your city is quite famous (infamous?) for sticky weather, it doesn’t mean you have to experience humidity inside your home too. A well-functioning air conditioner automatically takes care of the humidity indoors.

But if you feel higher levels of humidity inside, it’s another sign that a tune-up must be scheduled. Contact an AC repair professional to check whether the humidity is due to low refrigerant levels, a damaged evaporator coil, or something else.

Strange Sounds

If your air conditioner is old, you must have become used to the noises it usually makes. But if you notice any new sounds, such as buzzing, hissing, or clanking, there might be a new issue with the unit.

Generally, when an AC makes a buzzing sound, it means the airflow is getting hindered as the unit tries to push the air past the obstruction. A raspy or humming noise means the blades inside the unit have become damaged and are not moving properly. 

We recommend calling an AC servicing professional to get to the root of the problem before it gets worse (and is expensive to repair).

Not Enough Cool Air

If your air conditioner is blowing out warm or hot air, then something is obviously wrong with it. This could happen for a number of reasons, all of which can be addressed during a routine tune-up.

The air filter may need to be replaced or the AC coil may need to be cleaned to prevent dust from impacting the airflow. There could also be a lack of enough refrigerant. Call an AC repair company to evaluate the issue and get it fixed right away.

Higher Than Usual Cooling Bills

san antonio ac repair If you are using your AC for the same duration you have been using it for years, but the utility bills have significantly increased, it could mean your AC is consuming more energy now.

This often happens due to a lack of maintenance or if the unit is very old. As the system gets older, it starts to lose efficiency unless you schedule regular AC inspections and tune-ups. Over time, the unit may need to work harder due to the accumulation of dust, dirt, debris, etc. This means it will use more energy than it should.

Foul Smells

If you feel that your air conditioner is emitting bad odors, please call an AC repair as soon as possible before the problem gets worse. The smell can be a result of blocked drain lines, wet filters, dead critters, or mold buildup. 

Call UHS For Same-Day AC Repair and Maintenance

If your air conditioner needs some TLC, it’s best to rely on licensed and experienced professionals. At United Home Services, our HVAC technicians can perform regular AC tune-up to ensure your system runs smoothly for years to come. Talk to us at 866-836-2341 today or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

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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