5 Problems Caused by a Dirty Air Filter

February 20, 2018

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    Experiencing an HVAC system malfunction can make people panic, especially during colder seasons. However, heating and cooling Mesa AZ professionals say that most of these problems are caused by a dirty air filter.

    Inadequate heating or cooling

    If you notice that your system is simply not working as it used to, don’t fret, as the problem is most likely the filter. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, the blower needs to work a lot harder to push the air through the filter. Reduced airflow creates cold and hot spots, making the desired air temperature unattainable. This is an easy fix, and heating and cooling Mesa AZ maintenance experts do it all the time. There is, however, another problem that stems from this one.

    Increased energy bills

    Clogs cause a decrease in the airflow, making your heating and cooling system run for longer periods of time, trying to cool or heat your home adequately. This significantly raises energy usage, consequently increasing your energy bill. In fact, a study performed by the Florida Public Service Commission shows that the number two reason for increased energy bills was a dirty air filter. The longer you wait the more money you will spend, so act quickly.

    Inevitable breakdowns

    It’s not just about keeping your home cool, or putting a stop to high energy bills. It’s also about preserving your unit, and increasing its lifespan. With the air filter clogged, the strain on your AC system is greater as well, with the engines being pushed to the limit to compensate for the obstructed airflow. This will imminently result in a breakdown, sooner or later. If it comes to this, you can forget about a quick fix by the resident heating and cooling Mesa AZ maintenance crew. You will either be forced to replace your AC unit or replace the engines.

    Low air quality

    If the air filter is too dirty to perform its function properly, you can be sure that the air quality in your home is going to drop. The dirt and debris will pass through the system, settling in ducts, slowly contaminating your home. This can lead to chronic allergies, and can be especially troublesome for people suffering from respiratory conditions, such as asthma. In the beginning, you may not even notice, except for an occasional sniffle, but poor air quality will impact your health eventually.

    Frozen evaporator coils

    When the clog appears during summer, at the peak of the cooling season, the cooling or evaporator coil can freeze up. The lack of air that moves past the coil means it cannot dissipate the condensation produced during the process of cooling. It is then that the condensation freezes, thus reducing the ability of the unit to remove heat and cool your home adequately. Also, without an intervention from heating and cooling professionals, the air conditioner will surely break down at some point.

    Heating and cooling Mesa AZ to the rescue

    Hughes Air Heating & Cooling is there for you every step of the way. It doesn’t stop with us helping you choose the best heating and cooling system for your home. Our maintenance crews are there for any problems you might experience, providing swift and efficient service. Choose us, call today.

     

    Why Does My Heater Smell Bad?

    February 20, 2018

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      Turning your heater on for the first time after summer, you may notice a smell that shouldn’t be there. There are many reasons why an unpleasant smell can occur, so read on to know when to call professionals from heater service Gilbert AZ.

      Dust

      The period of summer dormancy for your heater is over, which means it must have accumulated a certain amount of dust. Debris and dust usually build up on the heat exchanger or other heating elements. Heater service Gilbert AZ experts say the unpleasant, burning smell is simply accumulated dust being burned. Warm air pumps the smell throughout your entire home, making it really noticeable. But, you can’t do anything about the dust, it’s just good to know you shouldn’t fret.

      Filters

      The bad smell can also occur if the motor of your heater is overworked. The culprit is usually a clogged filter. Changing the filter is the only option, as not only will the bad smell become worse, but there is a strong possibility of the motor giving out entirely. There is no better time to change the air filter than prior to the heating season, so if you haven’t done so recently, contact heater service Gilbert AZ professionals as soon as possible.

      Clearance

      This is one of the most obvious, but also most overlooked reasons for the appearance of an unpleasant smell from your heater. An object may simply be too close to the vents or your heating unit. When you turn on your heater after a long time, these objects can get really hot, or burn even. Inspect the area for any flammable items, plastic, or fabric, increase the clearance, and the problem should go away.

      Electrical problems

      Probably all of us are familiar with the smell of burning electrical components. If you get even the slightest whiff of a component overheating, there’s a chance of an electrical problem. This is something you should never attempt to fix on your own. Always call professional heater service Gilbert AZ to inspect electrical wiring and the motor. Don’t risk it.

      Bad ventilation

      In recent years, energy-efficient doors, windows, and insulation have become increasingly popular. Which is a good thing. However, they do not let air escape your home. This does help lower the monthly energy bill, but it also prevents adequate air circulation and ventilation. The lack of fresh air for your HVAC system causes a stale odor. Nothing too serious, but do try to turn off your heater unit from time to time. Also, allow your home to breathe by regularly airing it out and ventilating.

      Bacteria growth

      Bacteria makes everything sound more serious. The mere notion of it gets people worried. But it is normal for some bacteria to grow on the coils of your heat pump. The result of bacteria growth inside your heating unit is a smell people describe as the smell of dirty socks. Not pleasant at all. But it is nothing to worry about, as it can be quickly remedied by contacting your resident heater Gilbert AZ technicians. Getting rid of the bacteria is also part of routine maintenance.

      Heater service Gilbert AZ gets rid of stenches, odors, and stinks

      If you notice bad-smelling air coming out of your heating unit, you probably want it eliminated quickly and efficiently, as it can really ruin the atmosphere. Heater repair and maintenance experts from Hughes Air Heating & Cooling are here to do the job, and do it well. Contact us at the first whiff!