Press Releases Archive - Air Care Heating and Cooling

Spend Money on Holiday Gifts, Not Energy Bills

How to Use the AC System to Save Money During the Holidays

The holidays are coming, and the seasonal crunch is on everyone’s budgets. It seems people stretch their dollars to the max on holiday parties and gifts every year, but there is another source of budgetary stress during this time of year.

During the holidays, temperatures start to drop. While the imagery of a winter wonderland is a hallmark of the season, it can add stress to homeowners who want to keep their homes warm against the cold. Luckily, keeping the house cozy doesn’t have to be at odds with the financial demands of the season. Here are some tips to help homeowners save money on their heating bills during the winter.

Install Smart Thermostats

The first way to drastically reduce heating bills during the winter is to bring the home into the 21st century. The thermostat remained unchanged in its design for decades until digital programmable thermostats became available. These allowed homeowners to set a schedule for their heating and cooling systems to limit the total time the system had to run without sacrificing the comfort of living in the perfect temperature.

Smart thermostats take this concept one step further. A smart thermostat uses data from smartphones and sensors to learn the movement patterns of those inside the home. They use this data to automatically make a schedule to adjust the temperature in the home to save energy when no one is around. Using these money-saving devices can drastically lower heating bills this holiday season.

Replace the Air Filters

About this time of year, HVAC professionals start harping on everyone to change their air filters. One of the main reasons it is recommended to change air filters during the holidays is because it is the height of flu season and clean filters support good health.

In addition to keeping the air inside a home healthier and supporting immunity, air filter replacement can lower heating bills. When clogged air filters are left in service, they limit how much air can flow through the system. This wastes energy by making the system work harder than it needs to. Keeping clean air filters in service can make a noticeable difference in this winter’s heating bills.

Remember AC Maintenance

As with most things, planning is the best course of action. Instead of waiting until the last two months of the year to focus on saving money, why not make smaller investments all year long? HVAC maintenance is the perfect way to accomplish this.

HVAC maintenance is a semi-annual service offered by most contractors. It is a comprehensive program that attends to the air conditioner in the spring and the heater in the winter. The results of these programs are proven to be cost-efficient, saving owners money all year long.

Some of the steps that professionals will do during heating maintenance are:

Check for gas leaks
Clean the burner
Clean the pilot light or check the ignitors
Clean the blower wheel
Coil cleaning
Verify gas pressure

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Air Care Heating and Cooling offers a membership program with multiple benefits at a low monthly price. Their experts are highly-rated and they offer upfront pricing. Call today for HVAC service in Charlotte, NC.

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Don’t Get Chills From a Broken Heater

Common Signs of Heating Repairs

One of the most frightening situations a homeowner can encounter is a malfunctioning heater – especially as frigid fall weather arrives. If the heater stops working, it can leave a home cold and uncomfortable and can put a household at risk.

Homeowners can avoid these problems by knowing what signs to watch for that can indicate their heater is malfunctioning, and scheduling heating system repairs immediately.

Why Your Home Is Not Heating Up

When property owners notice their house is not warming up to the setting on the thermostat, it can signal an issue with the heater.

Some possible problems can include:

Malfunctioning thermostat: Technicians will check it’s working correctly, and that it wasn’t accidentally set to a lower temperature. They will also check the wiring and the batteries.
Dirty or clogged filters: Experts will check the condition of the filters and replace the filters as needed. Technicians recommend that homeowners change the filters every 1 to 3 months.
Blocked vent: They will ensure all heating vents are open and allow air to flow.
Pilot light issues: If the home has a gas heater, technicians will check the pilot light to ensure it’s working correctly.
Wrong unit size: Experts will check the heater to ensure it’s the right size for the house.
Lack of maintenance: Professionals will check to see if the heater has been maintained recently and if it’s causing the unit to malfunction. If it needs a tuneup, an expert will perform services.

Unusual Sounds Coming From the Heater?

When a heater malfunctions, it can make strange sounds. Some common noises households might hear are:

Banging or clanging: This can be caused by loose or damaged components, such as a broken blower wheel, damaged heat exchanger, or loose ductwork.
Rattling: This signals loose parts like screws or panels.
Squealing or screeching: A high-pitched squeal can indicate a problem with the blower motor or wheel.
Hissing or whistling: This can signal air escaping from the ductwork.
Clicking or ticking: Excessive, irregular ticking sounds can indicate a problem with the thermostat or the control system.
Grinding: This can mean a major issue, like a damaged blower wheel, motor, or other damaged components.

If homeowners hear unusual noises from their heater, they should schedule heater repair services quickly. These can indicate a serious problem with the heater that needs to be fixed.

Why There’s an Unexplained Rise in Your Energy Bill

Malfunctioning heaters can cause homeowners’ energy bills to rise. Systems can use more energy than usual to heat the home to the desired temperature. Some reasons for this can include:

The heater is operating inefficiently
Clogged or dirty filters, make the system work harder to distribute warm air
Leaky air ducts that allow heated air to escape
Wrong thermostat settings
Lack of regular routine maintenance
Safety issues like a cracked heat exchanger
Older heater that needs to be replaced

By repairing the malfunctioning heater, homeowners’ utility bills will return to normal, and they will save money by having their units operate more efficiently.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Since 2007, Air Care Heating and Cooling has provided quality heating and cooling services to the Charlotte area. They provide fast, quality services, and offer 24/7 emergency appointments. Call them today for HVAC services in Mint Hill, SC.

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3 Signs That an Evaporator Coil Needs Cleaning

Why Get Professional Evaporator Coil Cleaning

Homeowners should schedule professional evaporator coil cleaning services to keep their air conditioners running correctly. These maintenance services performed by an HVAC contractor can provide many benefits, including improved energy efficiency, enhanced cooling performance, better temperature control, and improved air quality.

Professionals can advise homeowners on what signs to watch for that indicate an evaporator coil needs to be cleaned, including a loss of cooling, a buildup of frost, or a loss of cooling capabilities.

Loss of Cooling Function

One of the first symptoms a property owner might notice that can signal the evaporator coil needs to be cleaned is if the air conditioner fails to cool the home. A dirty coil can prevent the AC system from properly cooling a home due to:

Frost or buildup on the coil, can hinder the heat exchange process
Refrigerant leaks, can compromise the cooling capacity
Coil corrosion or damage that can prevent the heat transfer process from working correctly
Clogged coils due to dust, dirt, or debris can insulate the coil and prevent the heat transfer from occurring correctly

Frost

If frost builds up on an evaporator coil, it requires professional cleaning services. Frost can develop due to problems with airflow – typically caused by a clogged air filter or a blocked vent. When the ice develops, it prevents the coil from absorbing heat from the air, causing a drop in cooling performance.

If a frozen evaporator coil occurs, homeowners might notice the house feels warmer than it should be, and it will not cool to the temperature on the thermostat.

The AC Runs Longer

Another sign homeowners can watch for that indicates a dirty evaporator coil is if the air conditioner runs longer than it needs to. Longer cycles can happen because the AC system can’t properly cool the house to the setting on the thermostat.

A dirty AC coil can cause an air conditioner to run continuously due to:

A reduced cooling efficiency due to frost buildup or dirt accumulation prevents it from correctly absorbing heat from the air
An inadequate heat exchange process, causes the AC system to overwork
A temperature imbalance if the house is not cooled evenly
Uneven cooling can prevent the thermostat from displaying an accurate reading
A malfunctioning sensor that prevents the air conditioner from turning off

Homeowners should schedule professional services with a trusted HVAC company if they notice these issues. AC contractors can inspect the air conditioner and AC evaporator coils and perform cleaning services.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

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It’s National Wellness Month: Learn How To Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Why Your Indoor Air Quality Matters

A household’s indoor air quality is extremely important. It’s even more essential if family members suffer from allergies or asthma symptoms.

Poor indoor air quality can cause many negative health symptoms, including respiratory issues. If a home has high humidity, poor ventilation, mold, or chemicals circulating in the air, it can cause major health issues – and aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms.

During August, National Wellness Month, experts recommend that homeowners improve indoor air quality to enhance their family’s health.

Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

One of the biggest risks of poor indoor air quality is illnesses and health symptoms. Some common problems households might experience are:

Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues
Sneezing, itching, watery eyes, runny nose, skin rashes, or other allergy symptoms
Nasal congestion, sore throat, or hoarseness due to exposure to pollutants or chemicals
Headache, dizziness, and fatigue

If households experience these issues, calling an expert to perform indoor air quality services is essential.

Air Filter Replacement and HVAC Maintenance

One way for households to improve their indoor air quality is to regularly replace their air conditioner and furnace filters and schedule annual maintenance services on their systems.

Homeowners might easily forget to replace their HVAC unit’s air filter. This might seem minor, but it can negatively impact a home’s indoor air quality. Air filters help remove debris from the air. As these get dirty, they fail to remove particles from the home’s air, leaving dirt and allergens circulating.

Another way for homeowners to ensure their indoor air quality is high is to have regular tune-ups performed on their HVAC system by a professional at least once a year. These routine services allow technicians to identify potential issues with systems – and repair them proactively rather than waiting until the problems get larger or until they malfunction – and clean the units. Servicing the systems allows technicians to check for leaks and remove issues caused by excess moisture, including refrigerant leaks. This prevents contaminants from entering into the home’s air.

Air Cleaners and Filtration Systems

If experts determine a home has indoor air quality issues, a solution they might recommend is installing an air cleaner or air filtration system. Two common types of these are air purifiers and UV air sanitizers.

These systems have key similarities and differences. While they both work to improve a home’s indoor air quality, they do it differently. Air purifiers specialize in removing dust and allergens from the air. In contrast, UV sanitizers remove bacteria and pathogens to eliminate germs and illnesses in a house.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

When Charlotte residents have an HVAC issue, they fix it in the Air Care Heating and Cooling way. They offer 24/7 emergency services, upfront pricing, and guarantee satisfaction with every appointment. Call them today for HVAC services in Mint Hill, NC.

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Common Refrigerant Questions

Refrigerant: What You Need to Know

If a home’s air conditioner is running, but the Charlotte house is not cooling off, it can signal a problem with the unit. But, it might not be an issue with an AC component – it could indicate the system needs more refrigerant.

Refrigerant is essential to the effectiveness of an air conditioner. Residing in the coils of an air conditioner, the refrigerant absorbs heat and provides cool air for the AC unit to blast into the home. An air conditioner cannot properly cool a home without refrigerant or coolant.

Homeowners should understand the basics of refrigerant, including what type their AC unit needs, how to spot a leak, and when to call in the HVAC technicians.

How to Tell Which Refrigerant an AC Uses

One of the first refrigerant facts property owners need to know is what type of refrigerant their AC unit needs. Homeowners might not realize it, but air conditioners require a specific type of refrigerant to operate correctly. Refrigerants are not interchangeable. Using the wrong type can damage an air conditioner.

The type of refrigerant a system needs is usually labeled outside the AC unit. Homeowners can also check the owner’s manual, which should be listed there. If property owners are not certain, they should ask a technician during an annual air conditioner tune-up.

Homeowners also need to pay attention to the age of their system. If the air conditioner was built before 2010, it could use R-22 or freon. This substance has been banned from being used in new units as R22 refrigerant can cause damage to the ozone layer. In this case, a technician may recommend replacing the AC unit.

What Causes Refrigerant Leaks?

A common issue homeowners can encounter is refrigerant leaks. Numerous issues, including aging, can cause these. As units get older, they can show more signs of wear and tear and corrosion, leading to small holes in the tubing and leaks.

Damage to the air conditioner or malfunctioning components can also cause leaks. Installation issues can result in leaks if the system isn’t handled properly or if components like valves or coils are broken.

Failing to schedule routine maintenance on an air conditioner can also result in refrigerant leaks. Without a yearly tune-up, professionals do not have the chance to inspect the unit and repair small problems before they become larger. They can use refrigerant leak detectors to catch these problems early during maintenance services.

When Is it Time to Call a Professional?

Refrigerant leaks and other issues, like frozen coils, can prevent air conditioners from working properly and keep homes at an ideal temperature. To avoid problems and to prevent a hot and stuffy house, homeowners need to call an HVAC contractor at the first signs of a refrigerant problem.

In addition to noticing their house is warmer than usual, homeowners should also watch for the following:

The air conditioner is running continuously without turning off
There are hissing or gurgling sounds coming from the system
There is ice on the refrigerant lines, causing a frozen AC coil

If a homeowner notices these problems, they need to call a professional to schedule repairs.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

When Charlotte residents have an HVAC issue, they must fix it the Air Care Heating and Cooling way. They offer 24/7 emergency services, upfront pricing, and guarantee satisfaction with every appointment. Call them today for HVAC services in Mint Hill, NC.

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3 Signs To Replace Your AC

Three Signs You May Need a New AC

When summer weather arrives, Charlotte, NC residents need to know their air conditioner is up to keep their house cool and comfortable all summer. If it starts to act up, homeowners need to know what signs to look for that indicate they must schedule air conditioner replacement services as soon as possible.

Some symptoms AC contractors recommend watching for are strange noises coming from the AC, higher energy bills than usual, and weak airflow. If residents notice these, they should schedule an appointment to see if they need to replace their system.

Strange Noises & Bad Smells

When an air conditioner starts to break down and needs to be replaced, there are numerous signs homeowners can look for indicating they need to schedule air conditioning replacement services. Two common symptoms are strange noises and foul odors.

Strange sounds: If an air conditioner starts making odd noises, technicians suggest this could indicate a mechanical issue with the system. Sounds like grinding, screeching, or banging can signal key components – like the motor or fan – are malfunctioning. These can break down over time due to wear and tear. Instead of replacing the individual parts, it can be more cost-effective for homeowners to install a new AC system.
Foul odors: Bad smells from the air conditioner can suggest a few issues. One common problem is the presence of mold or mildew inside the unit or the ductwork. When moisture accumulates within the system, it can cause them to grow. Another frequently noticed odor is a burning smell. This can indicate serious issues that require immediate attention. It could indicate a serious problem that can put the household at risk. Depending on the cause of the smell, technicians may recommend replacing the system.

Higher Energy Bills

Suppose homeowners suddenly notice their energy bills are higher and their air conditioner usage has been the same. In that case, it can indicate their system is aging and is no longer operating as efficiently as it used to. Older units may not have newer models’ latest energy efficiency standards. Newer models often come with improved technology and higher energy efficiency ratings, which can lead to lower utility bills and reduced environmental impact.

If a home’s system is consuming excessive energy and causing a significant increase in cooling costs, AC technicians may recommend upgrading to a more energy-efficient model.

Weak Airflow

If homeowners notice that even though their air conditioner is running, the amount of cool air coming through the vents is weaker, or the air is not as cool as it should be, it can indicate the AC unit needs to be replaced.

When AC contractors inspect the system to determine what’s causing the reduced airflow, they will likely check the blower fan, the age, and size of the unit, and look for blockages or refrigerant issues.

An air conditioner’s blower fan pushes air through the system and the home. If this fan malfunctions, it can lead to reduced airflow. While the fan can be repaired, in some cases, replacing it can be more cost-effective.

The size of an air conditioner can also impact its ability to cool the house. If it’s undersized, it won’t be able to produce enough air to cool the house. Older AC systems also can struggle to cool homes.

Another issue technicians will look for is blockages or refrigerant leaks. These can disrupt the cooling process and lead to weak airflow. Blockages can occur in the condenser coils or refrigerant lines, limiting refrigerant flow and hindering cooling efficiency.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Air Care Heating and Cooling provides trusted heating and cooling services to the Charlotte area. They are BBB accredited and provide upfront pricing for every job. Call them today for HVAC services in Mint Hill, NC.

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Why Schedule AC Maintenance?

Schedule AC Maintenance Before the Heat of Summer!

Scheduling air conditioner maintenance in the spring can have many benefits, including letting a technician inspect the unit before the hot temperatures arrive to ensure it’s working properly. Learn other benefits of scheduling AC maintenance services in the spring, including more availability, energy bill savings, and a longer unit lifespan.

More Availability for Scheduling

AC contractors fill up their schedules quickly in the summer. As the peak time for air conditioner services, technicians get most of their repair and maintenance calls. That means homeowners will likely have less flexibility regarding available appointments if they wait to schedule services until the hot weather arrives.

Instead of waiting until more people start using their AC in hot weather and then notice issues that need repairs, beat the rush and schedule AC tune-up in the spring.

Keep the AC Running Efficiently All Summer

When technicians inspect the air conditioner, they perform a full inspection. This means they will check to ensure the system is operating efficiently and look at the components to ensure they are working. They will also perform cleaning services to remove debris from coils, change filters, and other tasks.

Performing these services will not only let technicians identify which parts need to be repaired or replaced, but it will also improve the unit’s energy efficiency. This can result in savings on energy bills.

Make the AC Unit Last Longer

Regular air conditioner maintenance on the AC system can help it last longer.

Typically, air conditioners can last around 15 years. Letting professionals frequently inspect, clean, and maintain the system can help the system reach this age. Replacing worn parts and removing rust and other signs of corrosion can reduce the wear and tear on the unit.

Generally, AC contractors recommend having the AC unit tuned up and inspected at least once a year. If homeowners are running it more often, are putting more wear and tear on it, or if it’s an older unit, they should schedule these more often.

Having annual AC maintenance services performed can allow the system to last longer – allowing homeowners to prolong having to replace it.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

A family-owned and operated company serving the Charlotte area since 2007, Air Care Heating and Cooling is dedicated to repairing heating and cooling systems quickly and accurately. They offer 24/7 emergency services and provide upfront pricing. Call them today for HVAC services in Mint Hill, NC.

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Outsmarting Allergies: 5 Tips to Stay Ahead This Spring

5 Easy Ways to Breathe Easier This Spring

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, spring is finally here. While many of us look forward to enjoying the sunshine and outdoor activities, it’s also a good time to pay attention to our HVAC systems. Spring is the perfect time to perform simple maintenance tasks that can improve the HVAC system’s efficiency and ensure it runs smoothly.

1. Change Your Air Filters

A dirty air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system and cause it to work harder than necessary to heat or cool the home. This can lead to increased energy bills and even system breakdowns. To avoid this, replacing the air filters every 1-3 months or as the manufacturer recommends is important. Doing so can ensure that the HVAC system is running at peak efficiency, save on energy costs, and prolong the system’s life.

2. Clean Your Air Vents

Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris can accumulate in the air vents, reducing airflow and poor indoor air quality. Cleaning the air vents regularly can improve the air quality in the home and ensure that the HVAC system runs efficiently. One can use a vacuum or damp cloth to remove debris from the air vents, ensuring the air flowing through them is clean and fresh.

3. Schedule a Maintenance Check

Spring is the perfect time to schedule a professional HVAC maintenance check. A trained technician can inspect the system, identify potential issues, and ensure that the HVAC system runs efficiently. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and prolong the system’s life. Additionally, a professional technician can help identify opportunities to improve the system’s efficiency, saving money on energy bills in the long run.

4. Check Your Thermostat

The thermostat plays a critical role in ensuring the comfort of the home and reducing energy costs. Ensure the thermostat is working properly and set to the correct temperature. If the thermostat is outdated, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which can automatically adjust the temperature in the home based on one’s preferences and daily routine.

5. Consider an Air Purifier

An air purifier can be an excellent investment if someone in the family suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. An air purifier can help remove allergens, pollutants, and other particles from the air in the home, improving the overall air quality and helping one breathe easier. Talk to an HVAC technician about whether an air purifier is right for the home and which type would work best.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Air Care Heating and Cooling is a leading HVAC service provider in Mint Hill, NC, dedicated to providing top-quality HVAC services to residential and commercial clients. With years of experience in the industry, they offer comprehensive HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair services. Their trained technicians are committed to delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring customer satisfaction.

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Three Tips for Greener Heating in Honor of St. Patrick’s Day!

“Green” Tips for Heating Your Home This Saint Patrick’s Day

The early spring in North Carolina can be chilly, even if the trees are sprouting new leaves and the flowers bloom. And as the bite of winter still lingers in the air, even as St. Paddy’s Day ushers in the new season, homeowners are sure to keep using their central heating systems most nights. And since the HVAC system is a home’s biggest energy consumer, that can mean some high utility bills.

Fortunately, homeowners can improve their heater’s performance and efficiency – which helps their wallets! So in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, here are three easy ways for homeowners to “go green” this year and save more green!

Use Ceiling Fans

The first way to help reduce the heating bill is to utilize the home’s ceiling fans to recycle as much warm air as possible. When a ceiling fan spins clockwise, it pushes air up and out, sending it across the ceiling to the edges of the room and back down along the walls. This helps to circulate heat that has risen to the ceiling and takes some of the burdens off the heater. In the warmer months, the opposite direction is the most effective, meaning counterclockwise.

The heating system will not have to run as long or as often, and homeowners may even find that they can comfortably lower the thermostat by a degree or two – both of which can significantly reduce energy usage and lower energy bills. However, it’s important to remember that the fans should probably be kept at a low-speed setting to avoid creating a draft.

Keep the Air Filters Clean

The next tip for improving energy efficiency is regularly replacing air filters. A dirty air filter will impede airflow, which puts a strain on the blower motor and causes the unit to work harder than usual. This makes the house less comfortable as the system fails to properly distribute warm air throughout the home and causes the system to consume more energy while trying to maintain a constant temperature, raising energy bills.

Replacing the air filters on time (typically every 2-3 months for most homes) will allow the system to operate efficiently, lower energy bills, prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the heater, and keep the house nice and toasty. Clean air filters are essential to the energy efficiency and performance of heating and air conditioning systems, so it’s important to change them when necessary.

Consider Installing a Smart Thermostat

Last but not least, upgrading to a smart thermostat can dramatically impact energy consumption. Depending on the model, homeowners can save anywhere from 8-15% on their heating and cooling costs. This is made possible by a host of energy-saving features.

Even the most basic smart thermostats can be controlled via an app on a smartphone or other device, making it easy to adjust the temperature from virtually anywhere, which can help homeowners avoid heating an empty house. Along these lines, some models feature occupancy sensors that can detect when no one is home and set the temperature back accordingly to save money.

Some other common smart thermostat features include geofencing (technology that senses when homeowners are entering or leaving a certain radius), energy usage reports, weather alerts, and the ability to “learn” usage habits and suggest more efficient temperature settings for different times of the day. With all of these features, homeowners can help do their part to save energy and enjoy lower energy bills!

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Air Care Heating and Cooling is a family owned company serving Mint Hill, NC, Charlotte, and the surrounding areas since 2007. They provide upfront pricing, free estimates, and financing. Call them today for air conditioning or heating services in Mint Hill, NC.