Frequently Asked Questions about Heating & Cooling (Part 1)

July 26, 2017

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    A heating and cooling system is a vital component of every home, office or commercial property. Not only does it keep the temperatures pleasantly cool or warm, it also influences the quality of air.

    To make sure your HVAC system is up to par, you should get thoroughly informed. Many home and business owners want to know how they can cut down on AC costs during the hot summer months, but the cost is far from being the only factor at play.

    This article may help you decide whether your system needs an upgrade or replacement, provide advice on how to select a new HVAC system and balance cost and comfort, how often to schedule preventative maintenance, and more!

     

    How to know my HVAC system needs replacing?

    To upgrade, repair or replace? The decision can be difficult, so you should consult a reliable heating and cooling contractor with a proven reputation in Mesa, AZ. The budget you can currently allocate can be a significant decision-making factor. However, a fully functional HVAC system is a long-term investment, something you should invest in upfront only to be able to save up later.

    Modern systems are significantly more efficient than their older counterparts. For example, Trane air conditioners are not only 100% reliable but also extremely cost-efficient; residents of Mesa, AZ and beyond have been voting with their wallets for these cutting-edge appliances for quite some time now.

    If your system is more than 10 years old, chances are it needs replacement. If you experience constant issues with your AC or other parts of the system and you constantly pay for repairs, it’s a sign that you should replace it.

    If you notice high AC bills at the end of every month, you should consider switching to a more cost-efficient AC unit. The same goes for other components of the HVAC system.

    What happens during old system replacement?

    When replacing your old HVAC system, your heating and cooling contractor should inspect the existing structure to see if it can still be used and to what degree. The structural elements include (but are not limited to): piping or ductwork, insulation, wiring, condensate, flue and refrigerant piping, slabs, evaporator coil, and filter.

    The rule of thumb is to replace as many of these elements as possible because the new modern system will also require structural upgrades to achieve peak performance. Consult your HVAC contractor about your options.

    How long does a new HVAC system last?

    A newly installed heating and cooling system can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years, provided several conditions are met. First of all, you have to find a licensed and qualified HVAC contractor to install the system properly the first time around. Faulty installation can cause lots of issues almost by itself.

    Also, regular maintenance is necessary to prevent any issues right from the start. Preventative maintenance is vital to ensure the longevity of your heating and cooling system. A trusted HVAC technician can also suggest upgrades to the system that can make it more efficient and less prone to breakdowns.

    How often should maintenance be done and what should it cover?

    For your HVAC system to be efficient year-round, there are elements that you should have inspected once a year, others that require inspection every other year, while others need inspections more often. For example, heat pumps and gas furnaces require a tune-up once a year.

    During a maintenance checkup, your HVAC contractor should look for leaks, soot, rust, corrosion and frayed wires. As for the furnace, they should inspect the chimney, pipes or ductwork (depending on what system you have), dampers or valves, blower or pump, top mention a few elements. The technician should also run the system through a full heating cycle and clean the burner and heat exchanger.

    When checking up the heat pump, the HVAC technician should inspect the compressor and fan, and clean indoor and outdoor coils. The refrigerant lines should also be checked for refrigerant pressure.

    More about Heating and Cooling Mesa AZ

    In our next article, get answers to more questions you always wanted to ask about heating and cooling in Mesa AZ!

    How to Save Big on Cooling this summer

    July 11, 2017

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      Living in a hot climate like Arizona’s is unimaginable without a functioning air conditioning system. During the summer, many Mesa homeowners keep their AC running all day every day just to maintain a comfortable temperature. This, in turn, runs a hefty cooling bill every month.

      So, how to keep room temperatures cozy but not spend a fortune on running the AC every month?

      Here are some useful tips for you to bear in mind to lower your AC costs this summer.

      Use a programmable thermostat

      The first thing to consider is how to use your AC more economically. For starters, turning off the AC when you’re not using it is common-sense advice, at least from the cost-efficient point of view. We all want to step into a comfortably cooled room after being out in the scorching heat but this is really not a good idea. The difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures should be no more than a few degrees.

      And guess what?

      This can also help you save on AC bills every month! That’s exactly where a programmable thermostat comes into play. You can use it to increase the temperature when you’re out or asleep. For example, set the thermostat at 78⁰F on hot days and 82⁰F – 85⁰F when you’re outside the house. Studies have shown that each degree a thermostat is set above 75⁰F can result in as much as 10%-15% energy savings.

      Want to hear the best thing?

      You won’t have to manually set the thermostat every time you are about to leave the house. If you are in a hurry, chances are you will forget to set it. Instead, learn what smart living is with an easy-to-use programmable thermostat.

      Schedule AC checkup

      Just because you don’t see anything wrong with your AC doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have it checked. Did you know that you could save up to 15% in energy just by having the clogged AC filter cleaned? Dirty air filters make your AC less efficient. And what do you normally do in this situation? Turn the AC up. And the result? You run the AC more than it’s necessary, while also running a huge monthly bill.

      Instead of making this mistake, give a Mesa, Arizona air conditioning expert a call and they will have your AC up to par in no time.

      Retrofit your home

      No matter how good your AC is, it can only do so much without proper insulation. Insulating your home is a smart move because it helps reduce cooling costs during the summer, as well as heating costs in winter.

      There are other cost-efficient retrofitting options like installing solar screens and anti-UV window film on your windows. These simple additions can reduce up to 70% of the heat and harmful UV rays.

      And the best part?

      Most window films will help you keep the room temperatures comfortable without making the rooms dark. Closing the curtains and blinds will surely help you keep out the sun but it also means you will live in the state of perpetual shade all summer. Consider investing in some of these smart solutions because they virtually pay off themselves.

      Eliminate daily heat buildup

      While we’re on the subject of smart living, it might be good to mention the benefits of outdoor living. Moving the cooking area outdoors means that you won’t create additional heat by cooking indoors. During the hot summer months, you should think about how to avoid the heat buildup, and cooking outdoors is definitely the way to go. After all, more heat indoors means running your AC more and ultimately – getting a higher energy bill, month after month.

      Install shrubs or trees in front of your windows

      While it may be too late to plant shrubs or trees this summer, you can always buy some and install them in front of the windows on the south and west sides of your house. They will physically block the sun and also absorb much less heat compared to the walls. In turn, they will not radiate the absorbed heat after a hot summer’s day but provide cool from transpiration.

      Go for lighter colors

      Shockingly, a dark roof can reach as high as 150°F on a hot summer day. By contrast, a light-colored roof made of reflective material will stay under 100 °F. If painting your roof isn’t possible at the moment, at least go for light-colored curtains and blinds.

      Smart Air Conditioning Mesa, Arizona Solutions

      Whether it’s regular AC maintenance, repair or installation, Hughes Air Heating & Cooling is the go-to choice for residents of Mesa, AZ. With over 30 years of hands-on HVAC experience, we are fully equipped to cater to all residential and commercial cooling needs. Boasting the title of Mesa area’s Top Trane HVAC Installer for the XV product line, we have every confidence in our skills and expertise.

      Want to find out how you can cut your AC costs down this summer? Give Hughes Air Heating & Cooling a call today – we’re here to cater to all your HVAC needs!

      Breathe Cleaner Air at Home

      June 26, 2017

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        Think a HEPA filter is all you need to be breathing the cleanest possible air? Not really! The CleanEffects Air Cleaner from Trane is designed to catch particulates as small as 0.1 micron. That makes this air purification system eight times more effective than the best HEPA filters available. So while a HEPA filter is better than nothing, CleanEffects can help ensure you’re breathing the cleanest possible air.

        Using specialized, patented technology, Trane’s CleanEffects Air Cleaner can eliminate up to 99.98% of airborne particles. That means even tiny air pollutants such as smoke, bacteria, cooking grease, and many others are dramatically reduced in your indoor air. As a result, these potential allergens and asthma triggers are no longer circulating throughout your home, and you and your loved ones can breath easier. And unlike some air filtration systems, the CleanEffects Air Cleaner system won’t negatively impact your HVAC system’s efficiency.

        At Hughes Air Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to install these highly effective air purification systems from Trane. Offering you an outstanding way to improve your indoor air quality without decreasing your HVAC performance, the CleanEffects whole-house air cleaner is superior technology for better air in your home.

        If you’re ready to breathe cleaner air, call in Hughes Air Heating & Cooling today to get started. Our experienced HVAC professionals can get you set up with the Trane CleanEffects Air Cleaner you need to maximize your home’s indoor air quality!

        Ductless Systems Offer Superior Flexibility for Retrofits and More!

        June 15, 2017

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          Many older homes were constructed without air ducts for central heating and cooling, simply because that technology was not available or practical at the time. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with inadequate climate control or that you have to foot the bill for expensive duct installation in order to enjoy a cozy space in the winter and a cool breeze in the summer. Ductless heat pumps provide an efficient way for you to access the benefits of modern climate control without having to install ducting.

          Ductless systems, also called mini-split systems, offer effective single room heating and cooling without requiring ducts. These ductless heat pumps provide climate control by utilizing the combination of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. Connected by a refrigerant line and cables run through a small hole in the wall, the indoor and outdoor components of your mini-split heat pump work together to keep your space comfortable year-round.

          At Hughes Air Heating & Cooling, we install ductless systems from Trane in home additions, remodels, and existing structures. Trane’s mini-splits provide several different options for heating and cooling without ducts, and we can help match your needs with the right unit. We’re Trane Comfort Specialists with more than 30 years of hands-on HVAC experience, and we’ll work to get your ductless heat pump installed right.

          Not sure a ductless system is right for you? Consider these advantages:

          • No ducting required
          • Offers effective heating and cooling
          • Installs easily in existing spaces
          • Indoor units install on ceiling or wall
          • Quiet operation
          • Energy-efficient performance

          Call Hughes Air Heating & Cooling today with any questions or to schedule your mini-split installation. We’re here in Mesa to meet your HVAC needs!

          Watch Out for Commissioned Technicians!

          May 19, 2017

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            Routine maintenance is a very important step in the long-term life of your air conditioner or furnace. As a result, you’ll want to keep up with regular seasonal maintenance and tune-ups on your HVAC equipment. But when you do call in a heating and cooling contractor for service, make sure you’re calling in the right company!

            Many HVAC contractors use commissioned technicians to perform all their service calls, including routine maintenance. That means the tech who comes out to your home or business has a strong incentive to try to sell you expensive parts or unnecessary equipment—they get paid more if they do! So if you hear about an HVAC service offering low-cost tune-ups (approximately $59 or $69), start asking questions. If they use commissioned service technicians, you can be confident you’re in for a bait-and-switch, and you’ll soon be facing hardball sales tactics touting “solutions” you don’t really need.

            At Hughes Air Heating & Cooling, we’re different. Our team provides a comprehensive 23-point inspection of your HVAC system for just $99. And unlike heating and cooling companies that claim low maintenance call costs and then pressure you into buying unnecessary repairs or equipment, you won’t have to deal with high-pressure sales tactics when you call our professionals. That’s because our technicians don’t earn commissions. That means, unlike with most HVAC contractors, they’re not motivated to try to sell you services and products you don’t need just to pad their paycheck!

            Our 23-point inspection includes testing your heating and cooling system as well as replacing the filters and more. For your convenience, we’re also happy to let you know about our energy-saving maintenance program that can make it even easier and more affordable to keep your HVAC systems in tip-top shape.

            Learn more when you call now!

            Balancing Cost and Comfort in Your HVAC System

            May 15, 2017

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              When it’s time to install a new air conditioner or heat pump, we often hear customers request whatever system costs the least. While staying within your budget is definitely an important consideration, it’s also important to keep in mind that there’s a lot more to your HVAC system than just the price tag. Many lower cost units are less efficient than higher-end air conditioners, for example, so while you’ll spend less to purchase the unit, you’ll spend more to operate it over time.

              That’s why it’s best to go into the process of new HVAC installation with an open mind, instead of immediately leaning toward the most affordable option. Otherwise, you may end up sacrificing your comfort in favor of cost. And since an HVAC system is an investment you’ll be using for many years to come, you could end up facing inadequate heating or cooling, high operational costs, or other negatives for quite some time. You’ll want to look at all the factors to make sure you’re getting the best system for both your budget and your needs.

              At Hughes Air Heating & Cooling, our Trane Comfort Specialists have the in-depth training and product knowledge to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. We’ll guide you through the process of selecting a new air conditioner, heat pump, or other system to help you evaluate factors such as efficiency, comfort, cost, and more.

              For example, did you know that some air conditioners are much noisier than others? Some Trane air conditioners include compressor sound insulators that help keep the air conditioner quiet. If your outdoor unit is installed right under your bedroom window, how loud the AC unit is could be a big factor!

              Let Hughes Air Heating & Cooling meet your needs for new AC or heat pump installation. Remember, our service technicians don’t earn commission on the systems they sell you, so you can rest assured that they have your best interests in mind. Call now to get started!

              Check Out Our Spring Special

              April 28, 2017

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                Need a new air conditioner? Want to replace your old heat pump with a more efficient system? You’re in the right place. We have the equipment you need, the professional technicians you can trust, and the great prices you deserve!

                In fact, Hughes Air Heating & Cooling is proud to offer two great specials this spring. You can choose from special financing or a rebate on select Trane products through May 31.

                • Financing: Our spring special offers financing of 48 months’ equal payments with 0% APR.
                • Rebate: You can get up to $1,000 instant trade-in value.

                Our goal is to bring you great savings on top-quality Trane equipment to help you stay comfortable all year round. We’d love to talk with you about the right heating and cooling units for your specific needs. Learn more when you call the Hughes Air Heating & Cooling team today!

                What Is the Right HVAC System for My Home?

                April 18, 2017

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                  Choosing the right system for your needs is the most important step in your HVAC project. An undersized unit won’t be able to meet your climate control needs; an oversized unit will unnecessarily use energy and inflate your utility bills. You need to evaluate your HVAC goals, taking into consideration efficiency, capacity, cost, and more.

                  When the time comes to replace your home’s heating or cooling system, you’re faced with a mountain of choices. Oftentimes with older units, the system wasn’t correctly sized for the property’s current air conditioning or heating needs, so you can’t count on just getting an equivalent unit as your replacement. It’s no wonder that so many people find AC and furnace replacement to be overwhelming.

                  The good news is that when you have Hughes Air Heating & Cooling by your side, you can rely on our Trane Comfort Specialists to guide you throughout the process. Our experts can help you understand the differences between air conditioning models or explain the rating nuances of different heat pumps. And because we don’t compensate our HVAC contractors using commissions, you can rest assured that our team members are making product recommendations geared toward your specific needs, rather than trying to inflate their paychecks.

                  In the end, you’ll get solid advice from technicians well-versed in the particulars of a wide range of different systems. We’re proud to be Trane Comfort Specialists, and we always take your comfort into consideration when helping you select a new heating or cooling unit. Get started when you call today!

                  Take Your Home Heating and Cooling to the Next Level With a WiFi Thermostat!

                  March 31, 2017

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                    Imagine the convenience of being able to turn your heat up or your air conditioning down, even when you’re not home. Hughes Air Heating & Cooling makes it easy with Nexia. The Nexia WiFi thermostat enables you to connect with your home HVAC system via a smartphone app. That means no matter where you are, you can control your HVAC system from the palm of your hand!

                    Efficiency experts have long recommended turning climate control systems down when no one is home. With a traditional programmable thermostat, you have to stick to the same schedule to benefit from turning your HVAC down, or get stuck in a cold house if you come home early on a January evening or have to deal with the extra heat if you take a day off in July.

                    A Nexia thermostat makes it easy to ensure the temperature is set lower during the day in the winter and higher during the day in the summer, whether you’re sticking to a routine or not. That’s because you can simply pull up your smartphone app at any time and set the thermostat to your desired temperature. Headed home early? No problem. Just prepare by adjusting the heat or AC early. Our Nexia thermostats make it easy to maximize your home’s efficiency to reduce your energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

                    And even better, Nexia systems can be configured to control more than just your heating and cooling! They also offer adaptability to manage garage doors, security systems, lights, and more.

                    Hughes Air Heating & Cooling is a Trane Comfort Specialist, and we are committed to helping you get the right heating and air conditioning solutions for your specific needs. If you have questions about how a Nexia thermostat can work with your Trane unit, just give us a call! We are here to answer questions, provide complete installation and setup on your WiFi thermostat, and more. Contact us today to get started.

                    Have Your AC System Serviced for Maximum Cooling Efficiency This Summer

                    March 24, 2017

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                      Summers in Mesa are HOT! That means your air conditioning system works overtime to compensate for average summer temperatures that linger well over 100°. Make certain you’re taking the necessary precautions to ensure your air conditioner can keep your home cool all summer long.

                      If you’re getting ready to replace your air conditioning unit, consider putting in one of Trane’s XV systems. These air conditioners come with Trane’s innovative Climatuff Variable Speed Compressor; this specially designed compressor both automatically adjusts and continuously runs at a low speed. Instead of cooling all out for a short period of time and then turning off, this variable speed compressor works to maintain a consistent temperature in the most efficient way. This approach is particularly helpful in demanding cooling environments, as the Climatuff compressor can provide increased longevity and efficiency over traditional units.

                      But in addition to choosing a Trane XV system for your next air conditioner, you’ll also want to make sure you’re getting the necessary AC maintenance to help your equipment run efficiently. Even Trane’s high-tech models need routine service to ensure they’re performing at peak all summer! We provide AC tune-ups for both Trane and other air conditioning brands, and we’ll make sure your unit is in tip-top shape before the temperatures rise.

                      Let Hughes Air Heating & Cooling meet your needs for new Trane air conditioner installation and annual spring AC maintenance. Our team is standing by to help ensure you can achieve maximum cooling efficiency and comfort this summer. Call now to get started!