EFFECTS OF SALT WATER ON YOUR BEACHSIDE HOME AND HVAC UNIT

Many beach lovers dream of living near the ocean, either on a property with a view or in a town. Beachside living offers many advantages, including great views, close or easy access to the beaches, and the possibility to swim, surf, tan, exercise, and even go to the beach. Although it’s paradise, you should understand the impact saltwater has on your HVAC system before buying a home by the sea. Your HVAC unit can be greatly affected by the salty air around your home. You may feel the ocean breeze from your home, but it won’t save you if the air conditioner goes out.

HVAC and Salt Water

Salt is found in ocean water. The sodium chloride travels through the ocean and forms a dusty coating on your HVAC unit. This dust settles on different parts. This coating attracts moisture. Corrosion can be caused by salt, water, and humidity.

Your system can suffer more damage if it is left unattended. Salt is most damaging to the air conditioner. There are parts of the conditioner that are more susceptible than others. The AC condenser coil is one of these parts.

Copper tubes and aluminum fins make up the condenser coil. These parts can be damaged by salt and cause inefficiency.

Florida residents don’t want their air conditioners to stop working. Are you having problems with your air conditioner Are you near the sea? Salt water damage could be a problem if your AC is located near the ocean. You should look for signs such as AC damage: AC isn’t cooling down, AC is freezing up, or parts are iced-up.

You can take steps to protect your HVAC in North Myrtle Beach. To remove salt buildup, you can clean your HVAC unit with warm water and a cloth. The salt can be rinsed off your outdoor unit with water. You should remove anything that is too close to the outside unit. Salt can attach to nearby objects, making it easier to salt your unit.

Special coatings can also be applied to parts to prevent corrosion and increase efficiency. It doesn’t matter if your unit is old or new, the best thing to do is schedule regular maintenance with an HVAC company that is knowledgeable.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air now if you need help in installing, repairing, or maintaining your heating and cooling system.

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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

MYTHS ABOUT AIR CONDITIONING

Are you confused about the myriad of myths surrounding air conditioning? We understand! To help alleviate this confusion, we are here to set the record straight and provide clarity on some common misconceptions. By increasing your knowledge base when it comes to HVAC systems, you will be able to make more informed decisions for yourself and your home.

Myths About Your Air Conditioning System

Change air filters only once a year

Keeping your air filter clean and up-to-date is key to maintaining overall system performance. A clogged or dirty filter can mean a higher electric bill due to poor airflow, as well as worse indoor air quality – so don’t wait! Regularly changing the filters each month is recommended for optimal results.

You don’t need preventive maintenance

I know there are people that believe in the saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. That may work for some things in life, but when it comes to your HVAC system, it simply does not. Preventative air conditioning maintenance is absolutely necessary. If you are not having your unit serviced, your unit will eventually have breakdowns and will be more frequent.

The placement of the thermostat does not matter

The placement of a thermostat is key to effective temperature regulation. Direct sunlight and heat-producing appliances have the potential to interfere, causing prolonged AC run time or rendering it unable to kick on when needed – resulting in an uncomfortable indoor environment. For best results, ensure your thermostat’s location isn’t subjecting it to undue influence from external sources!

Turning down the thermostat cools the house faster

Setting your thermostat to an excessively low temperature won’t get it cooling faster — in fact, all you’re doing is wasting energy! For the most efficient and effective cooling of your home, adjust the temperature setting to something comfortably cool. Of course, keep in mind that some time may be required for full air conditioning.

Close air vents to cut costs

Keep your air vents open for maximum efficiency! Unopened vents allow the system to properly distribute and monitor airflow, helping you stay comfortable while avoiding unnecessary energy expenditure. On the other hand, too many closed ducts can cause forced power consumption – wasteful spending that could damage parts of your ventilation system over time.

It’s better to have a bigger air conditioning

When it comes to air conditioning, size matters. If you choose a unit too big for the space, not only will its parts wear out faster due to continuous short cycling cycles but also your energy bill will skyrocket! Bigger is definitely not better when picking an AC that best fits your home and budget.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air now if you need help in installing, fixing, or maintaining your air conditioner.

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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

HVAC MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FOR SPRING

Spring is just around the corner. It brings with it bright, cheerful days. You won’t be restricted to the four walls of your house any longer, just think. Spring is a time when many people can open their doors and windows, and leave behind their HVAC systems. Weather permitting.

It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pay attention to your HVAC system. It’s actually a good idea to pay attention to your HVAC system so that it’s available when you need it.

Preventative maintenance is the best way for your HVAC system to perform at its peak when it is most needed. Unfortunately, homeowners often focus more on their HVAC system than they do their gutter cleaning or lawn raking.

HVAC Maintenance Tips

Winter weather can cause havoc to your HVAC system. For example, outdoor and indoor units can become clogged with debris. This spring HVAC maintenance checklist will help you prepare for the cooling season. It will also improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Give your A/C some breathing space

If you are new to this, your A/C unit will be located outside of your house. It’s not necessary that it is located outside.

Most people forget to care for their lawns in winter. Leaves and branches can build up around the outside unit and cause problems until warmer weather.

A properly functioning system will be ensured by keeping the area clean. To remove smaller particles, vacuum the fins of the A/C unit after clearing out the bulky debris. This ensures that your system can take in enough air to properly regulate the temperature of your home.

You should also make sure you check your plants for any overgrowth once they start to grow. To run at its best, your A/C unit requires approximately two feet of space between each side. Be careful about planting around your unit. You need to consider how big your plants will grow. Clear and tidy units are essential to ensure high efficiency and reliability.

Give the A/C an opportunity to prove itself.

This is the simplest tip you will ever hear: turn on your air conditioner.

It’s a good idea to give your A/C unit a test run if you haven’t used it in the winter. It’s worth giving it 30 to 60 minutes to run after cleaning. Then, take a look at how it functions both inside and out. Is there anything that looks or sounds amiss?

It is similar to a trial run with any equipment. This gives you an opportunity to spot anything unusual about your unit before it becomes more serious.

Change your filters

There are many benefits to replacing your HVAC filters regularly, but especially during spring maintenance. It’s likely that your HVAC filter is clogged after a long winter.

Air filters are the first line of defense against air pollution in your home. It traps all particles and pollutants in the air and prevents them from getting into your home. It is not unusual for symptoms such as dry throats, dry nose passages, fatigue, or cold-like symptoms to develop when your filter cannot trap allergens like dust, pollen, or dander.

We recommend that you change your air filter every season. It’s one of the easiest maintenance tasks but it’s also one of the most important.

Make it a habit to inspect your air filter every month, and then replace it within three months.

Healthy indoor air quality is also dependent on the performance of your filter. The air quality is affected if the filter is dirty or clogged. It makes it harder for your air conditioners to work properly, which can lead to poor airflow, increased wear and tear, and higher energy costs.

Make sure to check the drainage hole

The base of most A/C units has a drain hole. It is usually located just below the evaporator fins. To ensure that the unit functions properly, the drainage hole must be cleaned. You can use a paperclip or thin wire to poke through it and check it is breathable.

Check for any leaks and clean your air ducts

Although air ducts are designed to bring conditioned air into your living space, the shape of the ducts can lead to a buildup in dust and grime. Even if your HVAC system works well, clogged or dirty ducts can block conditioned air from reaching your living spaces. Clean out your ducts to maintain a healthy HVAC system. This will create a comfortable indoor environment. To remove any dirt or dust visible, a vacuum cleaner equipped with an extender rod is able to do the job.

You can clean your vents with a rag and warm soapy water if you are able to reach them. You can also remove the ceiling or wall covers with a screwdriver for a deeper spring cleaning. Use a broom or a vacuum to clean out any dust in the ducts.

We recommend that you schedule a professional duct cleaning every three to five years in order to improve indoor air quality and comfort. An HVAC contractor will be able to tell you the condition of your air ducts during a professional tune-up. You can also talk to the technician about testing your ducts for cleanliness or air tightness.

Your ductwork could be the cause of problems like a musty odor, inconsistent temperature, or high humidity. Routine maintenance includes a check of your ductwork for any air leaks. Leakages can cause the conditioned air to escape from the living space before it can enter.

Did you know that air ducts can lose between 25 and 40 percent of the heating or cooling energy generated by an HVAC system, according to the Department of Energy? Leakages and cracks in the HVAC system are the main causes of energy loss.

If you find leaks in your HVAC system, contact North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air immediately to have the problem fixed.

Other issues such as mold growth could also be found in the ductwork. Mold spores can cause a variety of health problems, particularly for people with pre-existing conditions. You can either remove small amounts of mold yourself or hire a professional to address larger mold problems.

Thermostats should be checked

The thermostat is an important component of your HVAC system. It sends signals to the heating or cooling units when it is working correctly.

If your heater or air conditioner isn’t working properly, it might be that the thermostat is constantly on and off or the temperature in the room is lower than it is set.

Book a preventative maintenance appointment

The HVAC system is one of your most important investments. It also helps to maintain your indoor comfort. While you can do some maintenance yourself such as cleaning the outdoor unit, changing the air filters, and checking the ductwork, it is important to have your HVAC system professionally checked.

Preventative maintenance sessions with an HVAC professional are the best way to avoid any summertime problems. Having your HVAC system maintained professionally is the best way to save money, and prevent costly repairs.

An HVAC contractor in North Myrtle Beach is trained to spot potential problems and make repairs before they become serious. He or she will inspect the unit, make any repairs necessary, and replace any worn parts.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air now and schedule a spring maintenance service for your HVAC system.

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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

PREPARE AIR CONDITIONER FOR SUMMER

Many homeowners worry about setting up a pool and planning a summer vacation for their families. These are wonderful things to look forward too, but you need to first consider the basics. Your home’s comfort during a Myrtle Beach summer is heavily dependent on its air conditioning system. You must prepare it for the summer.

Install a new air filter

Each home’s air conditioner system has at least one filter that must be replaced regularly. This filter traps unwanted pollutants and makes sure they don’t get in your home. This filter will eventually become clogged with so many pollutants over time.

Now, take a few moments to remove the air filter. Hold it up to a light. It still has some life if you can see through it. If you cannot see through the filter it is time to replace it. There are four types of air filters available: HEPA, pleated, fiberglass and washable.

Clean Your Inside Air Conditioning Unit

Properly cleaning your air conditioner is essential to ensure it runs at peak performance. Start with the inside of your air conditioner unit. To prevent any electrical problems or injuries, you will need to switch off the circuit breaker connected to your AC system.

The access panel from the indoor air conditioner unit should be removed. Begin by cleaning the evaporator coils. Debris can build up over time and cause damage to the evaporator coil. A foaming cleanser that is specifically made for coils is recommended. The foaming cleanser will work and the debris will be able to fall into the drain pan.

Next, clean the drain pan as well as the drain pipe. These components can get clogged up with debris and hard water. To thoroughly clean these components, use a bleach-water solution. This will ensure you don’t have a water backup due to a blocked drain or pipe.

Clean the Outside HVAC Unit

After you have cleaned the indoor unit, you can reinstall the access panels. Now it’s time for you to go outside. First, remove the AC grille. Use a hose to clean any debris on your compressor unit’s fins and other parts.

You will need to clean the condenser coil with a special cleaner that you can buy online or in your local hardware store. The cleaner will be extremely harsh as it must work hard to get rid of all the debris and dirt that has been left by the elements.

Straighten the Fins

A lot of metal fins will be found on your outdoor compressor unit. These small pieces can be bent easily. The fins will not disperse heat properly if they are bent. You can fix this problem by using a fin comb.

Hardware stores sell fin combs. You will need a tape measure to determine the right size comb. You need to count the number of fins in one square inch. The number of fins per square inch is the basis for selling combs.

Make sure to clean up around the outdoor unit

Once you have cleaned up the outside unit, and reinstalled the AC grille cover cover, it is time to evaluate the area around the unit. You should remove any leaves or sticks that may be left behind. Tree branches or bushes within two feet of the unit will need to be cut back. A minimum of 2 feet should be left around the outdoor unit. This will allow air to flow freely through the unit.

Programming Your Thermostat

This is the perfect time to program your thermostat according to your schedule. When you are sure you will be home, set your thermostat at a level where you are comfortable. If you aren’t home, such as when you leave for work, you can program your thermostat to a temperature higher temperature. This will make sure that your air conditioner is operating in an efficient manner.

Does all of this sound complicated? North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air provides AC services for all North Myrtle Beach residents. We can also provide reliable assistance with all your heating and air purification requirements. Give us a shout today!

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

TIPS FOR KEEPING POLLEN OUT OF YOUR HVAC SYSTEM

Allergic reactions from pesky pollen are one thing, but did you know that it can also affect your air conditioner? Sneaky particles drift in through cracks and crevices as well as the outdoor condenser unit, causing a buildup of debris inside. Make sure to keep these openings sealed for optimal HVAC operation!

Keeping your indoor air quality pristine and your allergies at bay can be a challenge, especially when pollen is running rampant. Try out the suggestions below to maintain clean air in your home without letting any pesky pollutants come inside!

Close your windows

Living with allergies can present many unwanted challenges. Though mild weather might invite us to open our windows and bring in the fresh air, new research shows that leaving your windows open could let harmful particulates and microbes inside – polluting the very air you’re trying to breathe. Investing in a clean-air filter for indoors offers protection from these allergens so you can finally get some relief!

Keep the surroundings of the outdoor HVAC unit clean

Make sure to keep your HVAC in North Myrtle Beach free of pollen and other potential pollutants by removing any vegetation growing nearby. An easy, effective way to accomplish this is using gravel or paver bricks which will ensure nothing can take root near the outdoor condenser unit.

Change air filters

Improve indoor air quality by regularly changing your heating and air conditioning system filters! Unfiltered pollen, dust, pet hair, and other debris is continuously pulled through the filter up to six times each hour. When left unchanged for too long these contaminants can accumulate in your HVAC system causing it to fail prematurely – resulting in costly repairs down the road.

Clean the ducts

Keep the air in your home clean and safe by getting duct cleaning. Pollen spores, mold, viruses, and other contaminants can settle into the ductwork of your HVAC system – making these invisible pollutants present even with an air filter’s protection. A professional duct maintenance service ensures that all deposits are cleared away so you can breathe peacefully again!

Clean the air conditioner

Pollen can be an unwelcome nuisance, but the good news is that it won’t clog your outdoor unit. If you see some settling on its surface though, we recommend washing it off with a garden hose.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air now if you’re looking for professional HVAC contractors.

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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

HOW CAN HEAT PUMPS HELP CREATE A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

As the sustainable solution for climate control, heat pumps are revolutionizing how residential, municipal and commercial facilities manage their energy costs. By efficiently utilizing renewable thermal energy sources to both warm and cool environments, these systems dramatically reduce traditional utility bills as well as global carbon footprints – protecting our planet from harmful greenhouse gas emissions. So what is a heat pump?

What is a heat pump?

Instead of relying on fuel to heat your home or building, a heat pump draws from the environment outside to provide comfortable temperatures indoors. By reversing the usual air conditioning process, it uses refrigerant and specialized equipment to transfer energy between two spaces. Making use of naturally-occurring temperature differences in this way can be an efficient alternative for indoor climate control throughout all seasons.

Heat pumps offer versatile solutions for heating and cooling regardless of outdoor temperatures, with many being capable of switching between functions depending on the seasons. This can make them an incredibly efficient solution that utilizes up to three times more energy than it consumes.

Consumers are increasingly recognizing and appreciating the environmental advantages of sustainability-minded technologies. As we move forward, how can these innovations be implemented more broadly to maximize their positive impact on our world?

Temperature Management

Heat pumps are no longer just a staple in Europe and Asia; they’ve recently surged in popularity across North America too. With the ability to heat milder climates without dropping below freezing, this remarkable technology is providing efficient solutions for households around the world.

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly capable of offering the perfect climate control solution in any global environment. Let’s consider a place where temperatures can range from hot and sticky summers to chilly winters; heat pump technology is adept at managing both temperature and comfort regardless.

Homeowners are seeking energy savings and comfort—and they’re finding it with heat pump systems. Heat pumps offer up to 40% reduction in monthly costs without compromising a comfortable temperature indoors, making them an appealing choice for homeowners who want to save on their bills while staying cool all year long. Furthermore, contractors report that installing these cost-effective solutions is both simple and straightforward—a win-win situation across many boards!

Heat pumps in North Myrtle Beach offer a powerful and accessible way to fight the climate crisis – so much that they even got an enthusiastic nod from Bill Gates in his book, How to Avoid a Climate Disaster. With this technology helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions around the world, we can make real progress on decarbonizing our planet sooner than ever before.

As more homeowners and businesses become conscious of the need to reduce their environmental footprint, they are turning to heat pumps as a solution. Heat pump installations offer greater comfort at lower energy costs – win-win! On top of that, commercial buildings can expect up to 30% in CO2 emissions reductions from heating and cooling systems alone; for residential settings this number rises even higher (38%) with water heating representing an additional 15%. By making these small changes individuals can have a huge impact on our environment.

Call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air now if you need expert help in dealing with your HVAC problem.

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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

HEATING AND COOLING: WHAT IS EFFICIENT FOR YOUR HOME OR OFFICE?

If you are like most people, you most likely look at energy efficiency both in your monthly energy bills and in the usage. Basically this refers to the amount of energy and the amount of money you spend every year for the heating and cooling of your home. So, before you rush out to buy the latest energy efficiency HVAC unit that can heat or cool your house, there are a few things you need to remember.

Total Cost To Pay For Heating and Cooling Your Home or Office

The total cost you pay for heating and cooling your home or office is more than just the amount you need to pay for the utilities. Think about the costs that are direct expenditures for you. They should be taken into account when calculating your total yearly cost and might affect your annual utility balance notes.

Repair and Maintenance Costs

The repair and maintenance costs must be high on the list of the things you have to consider when buying that new HVAC system. Be sure that high efficiency system has all of the latest technology and features. However, you also need to know if these claims have been proven in the market already. You will find out that there is a lifetime warranty for several components. However, will the heating and cooling contractor be around in case something goes wrong? Are they known for honoring the labor warranties that they might have already issued? One costly repair out of warranty may cause the true efficiency to significantly decrease.

Primary Installation Cost

The initial installation cost plays a huge role in the overall efficiency. These days, there are high efficiency heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps, wood burners, solar panels, and many more options. Many of these units boast high efficiency ratings. For example, your current unit works at 60% efficient ratings, you can expect a net energy gain of about 30% when you are using a 90% efficient system. When considering your dollar savings that will come out to over $500 per year. You need to remember that unfortunately, energy costs will continue to increase so those savings will expand every year.

Now, consider your initial installation investment.

• What is your expected payback time?
• Are a few heating solutions less costly than the others?
• Are certain fuels less costly than the others?

Additionally, there are several renewable energy sources, like solar. These include wood, which is extremely popular and is known for its lowest installation and monthly costs. Because it is renewable, it has the ability to be environmentally friendly. However, this heat form needs more user involvement as well.

There are several trade offs to take into account when evaluating the many kinds of high efficiency heat however, it’s worth taking the time to select the kind that makes most sense to you. You will find one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. Just like in the many other aspects of your life, the most affordable choice tend to require the most maintenance. However, don’t let this prevent you from getting the most out of each btu and dollar that is used for heating and cooling your home.

Before you make the decision to install a more efficient heating and cooling option, call North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air if you want to make sure that you install the most efficient heating and cooling system in your home.

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