HOW TO AVOID COMMON HVAC ISSUES

Your HVAC system is an important part of your home during the summer heat and winter chill. However, your HVAC system can fail, causing extreme discomfort for your family members. It is crucial that homeowners are able to recognize HVAC problems in their homes, and how to fix them. Learn how to prevent these common HVAC problems:

1. Dirty air filters

HVAC problems can be caused by dirty air filters. Dirty filters can make your heating and cooling system run slower by decreasing airflow. Your system will have to work harder to heat and cool your space, leading to higher electricity costs. Filters that are dirty can also affect the air quality of your home. They can cause bacteria and mold growth which can trigger allergies. They can also cause asthma and infections.

How to Avoid Dirty Filters

You must change your air filters regularly to avoid any problems. Experts recommend that you change your air filters at least once every three months. However, it is better to do more frequent changes in the summer. You will need to replace your filters more frequently if you live in warmer climates and your air conditioner runs often.

2. Refrigerant Leaks

Your AC coils contain refrigerant. This fluid is essential to your AC system as it helps absorb indoor heat. Low refrigerant levels can cause hot air to blow from your vents due to leaky HVAC systems. This is a common problem in the summer and can cause problems with efficiency.

How to Avoid Refrigerant Leaks

Calling a professional for HVAC maintenance annually is the best way to prevent refrigerant leaks. They will inspect your system for low refrigerant levels and if they find it, they will seal it. Call a professional immediately if you suspect that there is a refrigerant problem in your system.

3. Clogged drainage lines

The drainage line allows water to drain from the unit. These lines keep humidity levels in your home at a balanced level. Standing water can cause damage to your cooling system and cause blockages in drainage lines. Standing water can lead to bacteria, mold, and fungi growth in your cooling system. The growth of bacteria or mold in your cooling system can cause unpleasant odors in your home. Additionally, water may flow back into your unit. Backflow can cause damage to other components.

How to Avoid Clogged Drainage Lines

Water leaks from your compressor unit can indicate clogged drainage lines. Call a professional HVAC contractor to fix the problem if you suspect it is.

4. Odd Noises

It is possible that your heat pump or air conditioner is making unusual noises. If something is wrong with your heat pump, it will make strange noises like knocking, screeching, or rattling sounds. These noises could indicate a problem with the motor. If there are problems with your air conditioner, it will make a clicking or buzzing sound. This could indicate that something is wrong. Your HVAC professional will be able to pinpoint the cause of any unusual noises you hear from your unit.

How to Avoid Strange Noises

Any unusual noises coming from your HVAC unit can indicate a larger problem. It is important to identify the problem quickly and get professional service immediately.

5. Failing Capacitors

Failing capacitors are another common problem in summer. The capacitor stores energy and then transfers it to the compressor. This is a common problem during summer heat and can cause air conditioners to stop working. The capacitor cannot hold a charge anymore. You will hear clicking sounds when this happens.

How to Avoid Failing Capacitors

Regular maintenance is the best way for capacitor problems to be avoided. Professionals will find any capacitors that aren’t functioning as they should, and either repair them or replace them.

Routine maintenance is key

Routine maintenance is the best way for your HVAC unit to be in good condition. You can do regular maintenance on your own. This includes checking your filters and cleaning your condenser. To ensure that everything runs smoothly, call in an HVAC contractor in North Myrtle Beach once a year. This helps prevent unexpected problems from arising and can help you catch them before they become serious.

Avoid system breakdowns by doing regular maintenance. Contact an HVAC contractor today! Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air.

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

IMPORTANT TROUBLESHOOTING SKILLS FOR YOUR HVAC SYSTEM

Despite regular maintenance and upkeep and regardless of how much you take care of your HVAC system, it can still experience issues over time that may easily lead to bigger and more costly problems if not resolved immediately. Remember that its parts wear out in time and that dust and debris can accumulate in the vents, even if you clean them regularly.

To help you prevent bigger problems with your heating and air conditioning systems, experts suggest learning some troubleshooting skills. This will allow you to immediately resolve issues before they develop into more severe problems. This is especially helpful for those instances when your heating and cooling contractor can’t get to your aid immediately.

HVAC System Failed To Turn On

There are several reasons why your heating and cooling system could fail to turn on. The primary reason would be a tripped circuit breaker. Check if circuit breaker is tripped. This might be because your air cooling and heating system may be trying to use more electricity than your home can handle. Another reason could be the outlet where your system is plugged is not receiving sufficient electricity. Your outlet might be old and might have lost contact with your system’s plug. If so, all you have to do is replace your outlet with a new one.

You might want to check your system’s power cord as well. Find out if there are frays or damage on the cord, as this could prevent the cord from effectively transferring power from the plug to your system. Replace your power cord if necessary. If none of these things are the reason why your system failed to switch on properly, it might be due to a damaged or worn-out capacitor inside your system. Should this be the case, you will need to contact your contractor at once.

Corroded gas valves

One of the common problems with gas heat pumps is corroded gas valves. These valves supply the gas to your burner that produces the warm air for your house. They can corrode over time; thereby, preventing the smooth flow of gas and efficient production of warm air by your entire system. Should this be the case, all you have to do is replace the corroded valves with new ones. If you smell gas while checking your heat pump and burner, switch off the entire system and call your HVAC contractor at once.

Clogged evaporator coil

Your system’s evaporator coils contribute greatly in the cooling ability of your entire HVAC North Myrtle Beach system. If it is clogged – which is primarily due to clogged or dirty filters – your heating and cooling system may not be able to produce cold air as efficiently as before. What you should do is to clean your filters if they are washable or replace them if they are disposable. Run the fan on your air conditioner for a several minutes to allow it time to blow out the clog and built up debris in the evaporator coils.

If the problem still persists, there might be a leak in the system, in which case, you will have to call in your contractor at once. Keep in mind that there are heating and cooling problems that cannot be solved by simple and basic troubleshooting. Thus, it is important that you call your contractor every time you experience issues and problems with your system. They can either guide or assist you over the phone to help resolve the problem, especially if they cannot arrive on your house on time.

Looking for a professional HVAC contractor to work with? Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air today and inquire about their services.

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

TIPS TO INCREASE YOUR HVAC SYSTEM’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Are you looking to improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit? You’re in the right place if so! We’ll discuss effective and practical strategies to help you reduce your energy consumption, while still keeping your home comfortable throughout the year. You can learn everything you need about improving the efficiency of your HVAC unit, from smart thermostat settings to better insulation.

HVAC Unit Terms

There are some terms that will help you make your HVAC unit more efficient. These terms will help you to understand the workings of your HVAC unit and make it more efficient.

• BTU: BTU is the British Thermal Unit. It is a measurement unit for heat. One BTU equals one degree Fahrenheit. It is the heat needed to raise one pound of water one degree.
• HVAC: stands for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning. An HVAC system provides heating, ventilation, or air conditioning to a space.
• SEER: stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. An HVAC unit’s SEER rating indicates how efficient it is over the course of a given season. The HVAC unit is more efficient if it has a higher SEER rating.
• AFUE: is an acronym for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. An HVAC unit’s AFUE rating indicates how efficient it is in converting fuel into electricity over the course of one year. The HVAC unit is more efficient if it has a higher AFUE rating.

How to Save Energy with Your HVAC Unit

You, as a homeowner know how important it is to save energy. You can reduce your HVAC unit’s energy consumption and save money by making it more efficient.

There are many ways to make your HVAC unit more efficient. You can make sure that your HVAC unit is properly insulated. This will allow the air to circulate in the summer and out during the winter. It will also reduce the work required by your HVAC unit and make it use less energy.

Regular maintenance and changing the filters as needed will make your HVAC unit more efficient. An HVAC unit that is well-maintained will work more efficiently than one that’s not.

Consider investing in a programmable thermostat. This thermostat can be programmed to adjust the temperature for specific times of the day so that you don’t heat or cool your home during inclement weather. This can help you save a lot on your monthly energy bills. These tips will ensure your HVAC unit runs efficiently and save you money.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

There are many things you can do in your home to reduce its carbon footprint. Making your HVAC unit more efficient is one of them. Here are some suggestions:

1. A professional HVAC inspection is recommended. It’s a good idea for your HVAC system to be inspected by a professional once a year. They will be able to spot potential problems and offer suggestions for improvement.
2. Change your air filter regularly. Dirty filters can block airflow, making your HVAC unit work harder and consume more energy. Keep your HVAC unit running smoothly by changing your filter every 1-3 months.
3. Programmable thermostats are a good option. Programmable thermostats can help you cut down on energy costs by automatically adjusting the temperature according to your schedule. You can program it to cool your house while everyone is at home, then turn it down or off when everyone is at work.
4. Clear out debris from vents and registers. Your HVAC unit will work harder if vents and registers become blocked with furniture, or other objects. You must ensure that there is nothing blocking the airflow in these areas.
5. Leakages in ductwork should be sealed. Leakage in ductwork can cause cooled or heated air to escape. This can make your HVAC unit run more inefficiently and consume more energy. A professional HVAC contractor can inspect and seal your ducts if they aren’t sealed yet.

Save Money on Utility Bills

Call a reliable HVAC contractor near you to find out the best methods of increasing your heating and cooling system’s energy efficiency. While online tips will work just fine, it is still always better to get a technician in your home to get your system tuned. North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air offers a range of services for your HVAC system. Give us a call today to know more.

Do you want to make your HVAC unit more energy efficient? Our experts can help increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air today!

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

WINTER HEATING HACKS FOR A WARMER HOUSE

Your home should be warm and cozy in winter. While raising your thermostat can make your home warmer, it can also increase your energy bills. But there are ways you can heat your home without increasing your heating costs. These winter heating hacks will help you keep the cool out and warmth in your home:

1. Install a programmable thermostat

Programmable thermostats allow you to control the temperature of your home throughout the day. They can be set to adjust at any time, so it doesn’t need to stay at 68°F all the time. The thermostat can be programmed to lower the temperature at night or when there is no one home, so you can keep your house warm while you are awake. You can set the thermostat to return to normal when you get up, or when you return home from work so that you don’t step into a cold house.

2. Check that heating vents remain open and not blocked

It is a myth that closing vents will make your home more efficient by not heating unoccupied rooms. The HVAC system in your home was designed to produce the same amount of hot air regardless of how many vents you have open. Vents that are too tightly closed can cause the system to work harder, which will lead to higher energy bills and more damage. Vents can be partially closed to help push air into the right places, but you should leave at least 25% of them open.

3. Add a door draft stopper

Draft guards can prevent cold air from getting into your home through doors. These handy objects, often covered with fabric and weighed down with sand are placed at the front doors to stop cold air from seeping in. If you are so inclined, you can make your own. Cut a length of fabric that fits your doorway. Then, make a tube from it and fill it with whatever stuffing you prefer before closing it. While a draft stopper will not eliminate the cool breeze from entering your door when you open it, it can help keep the door closed.

4. Use bubble wrap or plastic film to insulate windows

Bubble wrap and plastic film are inexpensive and easy to use as window insulators. Window film insulation kits can be made from transparent shrink film, which creates a barrier for drafty windows. Cut the sheet of plastic to fit your window. Apply adhesive tape to the frame of the window and then seal it with a hairdryer.

5. Seal your windows

Sealing windows is another smart move. To keep drafts out and heat in your home, replace old caulking with weatherstripping. First, clean out the window frame of any caulk that has deteriorated. Next, you will need to use a caulk gun and slowly apply a thin layer of caulk along the seams of the window. Finish by smoothing the caulk using your finger. Seal the interior of your windows if you’re looking to go the extra mile. Sealing your windows prevents drafts which ultimately helps your heat pump perform better.

6. On a sunny day, open the curtains

This hack for housewarming is completely free! Check the weather before you go out for the day. Open the curtains and blinds around your house if the sun is shining. Nature will heat your home free of charge. To prevent cold air from entering your home at night, close all the curtains.

7. Turn your ceiling fan on reverse

This is a great hack that’s often overlooked. To pull cool air up, your ceiling fan should be turned clockwise in the summer. Fans can also be used in winter to heat your home.

8. Keep interior doors open

Not the exterior doors, of course. But the interior doors of your home. This might seem to contradict the idea that closing some doors will result in less heat being generated overall. Air can circulate in your home if you keep your doors open. This will regulate the temperature in the entire house.

9. Boost insulation

This step is more time-consuming, but it can save you money. It might be time to inspect your insulation if it hasn’t been inspected in a while. Insulation will regulate the temperature inside your home and prevent heat from escaping to the basement or attic. Call a North Myrtle Beach heating contractor to increase your home’s insulation.

10. Bake some delicious treats

Want to get warm quickly? To warm up your home, turn on the oven while you bake your favorite dessert. After you are done baking, close the oven door but leave it a little bit open and let it cool down.

Does your HVAC system struggle with keeping your home warm in the winter? Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air today! We can help you with all of your heating needs.

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

HOW TO CHOOSE A HEAT PUMP FOR YOUR NORTH MYRTLE BEACH HOME

Heat pumps were once considered inefficient and undesirable, but times have changed. Thanks in large part to new efficiency standards put on heat pumps by the government; they have become significantly more desirable. They are more energy-efficient than central heating and air conditioning systems. In fact, by some estimates, the best heat pumps are as much as 100% more efficient than central heating and cooling systems.

More and more people are turning to them to save money on their power and gas bills and even more, people are embracing heat pumps out of concern for the environment. If you have decided to make the leap, there are things you should know before selecting your heat pump system.

This guide will help you select your best heat pump:

Before getting into the specifics of heat pumps themselves, it is important to understand the installation process. Do not pick out your heat pump and then go shopping for a contractor to do the installation work. Your North Myrtle Beach HVAC contractor should be working with you every step of the way through the process. Their input will be extremely valuable when it comes to choosing the right heat pump to meet your needs.

The number one thing you need to consider when you are choosing a heat pump is the size of the pump. You need one that is large enough to provide heat and cooling to all of the rooms in your home without overworking or burning out. Your HVAC contractor should be able to give you advice about the proper sizing. Many people are tempted to downsize in hopes of saving a little money upfront. Don’t do it. It will increase your energy costs over the long haul and cause you to need more frequent repair and maintenance on your system. Additionally, you just won’t be comfortable in your home. It is not worth saving a few hundred dollars.

Next, consider the SEER and HSPF ratings. These ratings tell you how efficient the heating and cooling systems are in a heat pump. The higher the SEER number is, the more effectively the heat pump cools the house. The higher the HSPF rating, the more effective the heat pump is at heating the home. You should pick a heat pump that matches the climate where you live. If you have a lot of hot weather, a high SEER rating is important, and if you have a lot of cold weather, the HSPF rating should matter the most to you. Taking the time to do your homework upfront is worthwhile to get the most out of your heat pump investment – it will save you money in the long run.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air before you make the investment in a new heat pump. We can answer all your questions.

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

2023 HVAC TIPS – IMPROVE YOUR HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Winter can put a lot of strain on HVAC systems. Heating, in particular, is used extensively throughout the winter season which calls for much-needed maintenance. Now that winter is here, it’s time to schedule a visit from your local HVAC contractor to prepare the system for another round of heating and cooling. This not only keeps the system in good running condition, it also helps keep it energy-efficient throughout the year. Bear in mind that HVAC systems take up as much as 50% of a household’s energy usage. It’s only best to make sure the system is as efficient it can be.

What you need to keep your HVAC efficient all year round:

Don’t forget to schedule that annual checkup

According to experts like Grand Strand Heating And Cooling, HVAC systems last longer if they are well-maintained. Other than that, they will run efficiently throughout the year. These are the reasons why you should never forget to call an HVAC specialist and book an appointment. Regular maintenance, along with proper usage, can keep your system running for longer.

Do the simple tasks yourself

You can divide HVAC maintenance into two categories – hard and easy. The hard ones are left for the experts. Tasks such as checking for leaks, inspecting the compressor, and making sure all electrical components work is for an expert to do. However, checking to see if the air filter is dirty or not is one of the easier tasks you can do on your own. Other tasks such as cleaning the vents and register, clearing the area surrounding the outside unit, and checking the thermostat can all be done quite easily without the help of an HVAC contractor North Myrtle Beach.

Get a home energy audit

An energy audit is basically an inspection aimed at gauging the energy efficiency of your system. The HVAC contractor will carefully inspect every section of the system for any possible issues. If you feel that your heating and cooling system isn’t running optimally, an audit can help figure out the reasons why.

Upgrade your HVAC system

A typical HVAC system can last up to 15 years. However, that is just an approximation of how long the system can last under perfect conditions including regular maintenance. On the other hand, there are various factors that could affect the efficiency of the system over the years. This is why you might want to consider upgrading to a better model after using the system for a decade or more.

The things you should look for in an HVAC system include high-efficiency ratings, an Energy Star certification, and two-stage heat pumps. Newer models often come with energy-efficient features. They would also last longer due to the technology used in them. Of course, no HVAC sys would last long without proper maintenance. Always schedule periodic maintenance to ensure your system lasts longer and remains efficient.

Does your HVAC struggle to heat or cool your home? Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air today!

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

Serving: North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Landing, Little River, Longs, Cherry Grove

BREATHE EASIER WITH WHOLE-HOUSE AIR FILTRATION

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside our residences might be anywhere from 2-5 times as toxified as the open air. Today’s firmly secured, energy-saving design has really made this issue even worse. Air leaks are reduced, which boosts HVAC efficiency very well, yet the decline in air flow leaves air-borne allergens such as pollen, as well as various other impurities that can be entrapped inside. The outcome? Your home’s air quality is not what it should be, neither is your health. Whole house air filtration systems can help you breathe easier by cleansing the indoor air.

What Whole-House Air Purification Units Can and Cannot Do

Whole-house air filtration systems help family members with asthma or allergies such as pollen. These purification systems are developed to remove irritants, consisting of pollen, dirt, allergen and pet dander, from the interior air. Some will additionally filter out cigarette smoke and also certain damaging VOCs (volatile organic substances), chemicals which may be off-gassed from common family things such as fresh paint or synthetic materials as well as carpeting. All of them are capable of eliminating only air-borne impurities, nonetheless, and not poisonous materials which may have evaded the area.

Don’t expect the systems to eliminate all toxicity from your residence’s air, either. For much healthier interior air, you should additionally carry out practical actions yourself. Ask smokers to indulge out of doors. Stay clear of storage space of toxic substances like paint, chemicals, or solvents inside your home. Be sure that gas combustion appliances (kerosene heating systems or gas stoves, for example) are sufficiently ducted as well as never ever use charcoal or gas barbecues or camping stoves inside your home. Mount a carbon monoxide detector as well as have your residence looked at for the visibility of mold and mildew or radon.

How the Units Work

If your home uses forced-air central air conditioning, an efficient whole-house air purification system can be integrated into it, making use of the ductwork and also a blower that is already in position. See to it that the air filtering system you purchase will not interfere with the reliable movement of heating and cooling. You will also need to scrupulously wash the ductwork prior to installation and also keep it clean. There are a couple of non-ducted air purification systems which might be freestanding or wall-mounted; they have the tendency to be on the more expensive side.

The advantage of a whole-house air filtration system over smaller-sized, mobile variations is that it is very powerful and impacts all spaces of the home, yet it has a much quieter fan. Nevertheless, this type of system is can be fairly pricey and also generally have to be set up by an HVAC specialist.

Just what to Search for

When purchasing a whole-house system, you will find numerous types of air cleaning systems to choose from. A HEPA filter is a barrier that will evaluate air-borne irritant particles as little as 0.3 microns. A hybrid filter integrates a barrier technique with one more substance (typically activated carbon) to remove tobacco smoke as well as allergens. An electrostatic precipitator utilizes an electrical charge to attract and also accumulate irritants airborne; nevertheless, its electrostatic plates require constant cleaning, as well as the system, could generate a tiny quantity of ozone. An ozone generator works to get rid of air-borne impurities, but its high degree of ozone threatens individuals with breathing troubles.

ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air–Conditioning Engineers) prices whole-house air purification systems on a scale from 1 to 16, based on their MERV (minimum efficiency reporting values). Consumer News stated that the best-performing filter systems they checked had the tendency to have a MERV score of 10 or above.

Finally, compare the different whole-house air purification systems based upon the price of replacement filters as well as the length of their guarantees.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air today if you are interested in checking the air quality of your home.

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North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air
1001 2nd Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-399-3237
https://www.northmyrtlebeachheatingandair.com/

Serving: North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Landing, Little River, Longs, Cherry Grove