Preventing AC Leaks: a Brief Guide

November 30, 2020

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    Preventing AC Leaks: a Brief GuideIn order to cool down air, an air conditioner pulls in hot and humid air from the outside and blows it across a cooled coil, also known as the evaporator coil. A side effect of this process is that condensation starts to build up on the coil.

    This excess water then passes through a pipe, falls into the drain pan, and is then pumped out of your home through another pipe. Unfortunately, certain AC problems can cause water to leak out of your unit, which can result in damage both to the air conditioner itself and your other property.

    While calling an AC repair service in Queen Creek, AZ, is a quick and easy way to deal with a leaky air conditioner, it’s still worth every homeowner’s time to understand why their ACs sometimes leak and how these problems should be addressed. Keep reading to learn more.

    How do I prevent my air conditioner from leaking?

    Regular AC maintenance is the single most effective way to prevent leaks, as well as the majority of other HVAC-related problems. As a general rule, your air conditioner should be examined by a qualified technician at least once a year.

    Of course, no matter how well-maintained your AC unit is, it can still suffer unexpected damages as a result of accidents, harsh weather, or even vandalism. That’s why you should occasionally give your AC a quick visual checkup.

    If you spot anything out of the ordinary, such as water stains on the wall or excessive amounts of moisture dripping from the exterior drain pipe, reach out to your HVAC contractor immediately and have them send someone over.

    Here are 5 major reasons why AC leaks occur:

    1. Evaporator coils have frozen over. Low refrigerant levels or a dirty air filter can hamper airflow within the air conditioner. This will cause the temps inside the AC unit to drop to the point where ice forms on the evaporator coil. Once this ice begins to melt, it’ll overflow the condensate drain line or drain pan and end up leaking into your home.
    2. Overflowing or damaged drain pan. The drain pan is a plastic or metal container that water goes into before being drained out of your house. If this pan gets damaged (or simply corrodes due to age), it can start leaking.
    3. The condensate drain line is clogged. Algae, debris, dirt, sludge, and fungi can all cause a blockage inside your AC’s condensate drain line. With nowhere else to go, the water from the evaporator coil will inevitably overflow and end up in your living space.
    4. Malfunctioning pump. If the pump that draws water from the drain pan is broken, the water will eventually overflow the pan and start dripping onto the floor.
    5. Improper installation. Inexperienced, untrained, and “budget” HVAC contractors rarely take the time to ensure the exterior AC unit is perfectly level or that the seals are tight when they perform the installation. Water leaks are just one of the many problems this can cause.

    As we’ve already noted, the only surefire way to prevent your air conditioner from leaking is to have it inspected and serviced by experienced HVAC professionals on a regular basis. This will help ensure optimal performance from your unit and minimize the chances of leaking.

    Where can I book premium AC repair in Queen Creek, AZ?

    How do I prevent my air conditioner from leaking?Having a working air conditioner at all times is essential if you live in a hot, dry place like Queen Creek, Arizona. Here at Hughes Air, we consider it our mission to make sure your ACs remain fully functional all year round.

    With over 30 years of hands-on experience in HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, we are superbly equipped to solve any AC-related problem you might have. Contact us today and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Founders’ Park while we take care of your AC.

    5 Causes of AC Leaks

    October 28, 2020

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      5 Causes of AC LeaksIf your AC starts leaking, don’t panic! Water leaks can occur even if none of the components inside your AC are broken. In order to determine whether your unit requires AC repair, you’ll need to take a look inside your AC (or have it examined by the experts in Queen Creek, Arizona).

      Read on to learn about the 5 most frequent causes of AC leakage.

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      Is AC Leakage Dangerous? How to Deal With a Leaking Air Conditioner

      October 28, 2020

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        Is water leaking from an air conditioner dangerous?Modern air conditioners are a true technological wonder. Not only are they quiet, affordable, and universally useful, they keep getting more energy-efficient with each passing year. It’s really no surprise that over 90% of American homes contain at least one of these marvelous devices.

        That being said, air conditioners aren’t perfect. Sooner or later, regular use will cause your AC to malfunction in some way that requires AC repair in Queen Creek. One of the most common problems occurs when water or refrigerant starts leaking out of your interior AC unit.

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        What Is Comfort Cooling and Is It Different from Regular Air Conditioning?

        September 30, 2020

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          Is comfort cooling the same as air conditioning?Americans love their air conditioning systems, and for a good reason. Not only do these wonderful devices maintain pleasant temperatures in our homes and workplaces all year round, they’re also extremely energy-efficient and more eco-friendly than their fuel-based counterparts.

          We’d even go so far as to say that installing a quality AC in your house or office can greatly reduce your expenditures and even improve your life in the long run. Furthermore, modern ACs are extremely durable, so you’ll almost never have to call Chandler, Arizona, AC repair services unless your AC is at the end of its lifespan. 

          Which brings us to the main question behind this article: do you know what the term “comfort cooling” stands for? Many Americans don’t, yet it’s something that’s closely related to their indoor temperatures and the way their AC units work. Read on to learn more.  (more…)

          Ideal Indoor Temperatures: How to Set Your Thermostat for Maximum Comfort

          September 30, 2020

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            Residential air conditioning systems are one of the greatest inventions of all time. They keep us cool during sweltering summer days, they warm us up during cold months, and they help prevent allergens and other harmful particles from getting into our homes.

            With all that in mind, it’s no surprise that most Americans take great care to keep their ACs in good working order by carefully maintaining them and having any malfunctions quickly fixed by first-rate Chandler AC repair technicians. 

            Ever since these systems first became available to the public, their owners have been asking the same question: which is the best temperature to set your thermostat on? That’s what we’ll be answering in this article. Keep reading to learn more. (more…)

            How Dust Storms Can Damage Your AC & What You Should Do About It

            August 31, 2020

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              As anyone who lives in Arizona can tell you, the Grand Canyon State is no stranger to dust storms. Also known as haboobs, dust storms occur when powerful winds blow loose dirt, clay, dust, and sand up into the air, creating a large cloud of debris and dust.

              In addition to reducing visibility, damaging the environment, and aggravating respiratory conditions, dust storms also have a nasty tendency to cause problems with your air conditioning equipment. These issues can sometimes be severe enough to require professional air conditioner repair in Chandler.

              In order to help you keep your AC units running properly and prevent dust from reducing your indoor air quality, we’ve written a brief guide on how to minimize the effects of dust storms on your AC unit. Keep reading to learn more.

              Why is my AC blowing dust?

              Giving your home an in-depth cleaning, only to find dust on your furniture some minutes later is one of the most frustrating things a homeowner can experience. If this happens to you, check your air conditioner to make sure it isn’t malfunctioning in some way.

              AC problems that can cause it to blow dust include:

              • Ductwork leaks. Heating and cooling ducts are typically located in the basement, attic, or behind walls. Any leaks in the ductwork will cause your HVAC system to suck the dust right out of these naturally dirty areas and distribute it into the other parts of your house.
              • Problems with filters. All air conditioners contain internal dust filters. If these filters are damaged or of low quality, you’ll likely have a lot more dust in your home. Replacing them with first-rate filters that have a high MERV rating is the best solution to this problem.

              How do I protect my air conditioner from dust?

              If a dust storm hits your neighborhood, there’s a considerable chance that it’s going to muck up the coil inside your AC unit. Unless addressed, this dirt buildup will gradually reduce the efficiency of your AC unit and may cause its outside fan motor to overheat.

              Here’s what you can do about it:

              Turn off your air conditioner during a dust storm

              This may be inconvenient, but it will keep your AC system from sucking in even more dust than necessary.

              Change the filters after a dust storm

              A dust storm can clog up an AC’s dust filters in no time. This reduces or even completely blocks air flow, which makes your AC less efficient and may result in it breaking down entirely. Replacing or (if applicable) washing the filters after every dust storm is highly recommended.

              Wash the exterior unit after a dust storm

              Once a dust storm has passed, turn off the outside AC unit and give it a good rinsing with a garden hose. Pay special attention to the tiny air fins, as that’s where dust tends to accumulate the most.

              Examine your ductwork

              Strong winds can damage your AC’s ducts, so give them a quick checkup to make sure everything is as it should be.

              Who provides dependable air conditioner repair in Chandler?

              How Do I Protect My Air Conditioner from Dust?Modern air conditioning systems are complex devices that are considerably more efficient and durable than their older counterparts. Unfortunately, this increased complexity means they can also malfunction in a variety of different ways, many of which are impossible for a layperson to diagnose.

              If your AC unit is acting up or otherwise underperforming, don’t hesitate to call Hughes Air. As the leading cooling and heating contractor in Chandler, we’ll be happy to deal with any AC-related problems you may have while you relax at the Environmental Education Center with your loved ones. Call us today.

              Indoor Air Quality 101: How Your AC Improves the Air Quality in Your Home

              August 31, 2020

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                Making sure the air inside your house is fresh and free of dust, allergens, and other harmful particles is one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner. Unfortunately, regularly airing and cleaning your place isn’t always enough to ensure good indoor air quality.

                So what can you do? Should you invest in a dedicated air purifier, or is installing a high quality air conditioner enough to keep dust and pollutants out? Can an air conditioning repair company in Chandler, Arizona, modify your existing AC system to make it more effective at filtering the air that enters your house?

                We’ll answer these questions about indoor air quality in this article, and advise you on what to do if your air conditioner isn’t working as intended. Read on to learn more.

                Does air conditioning filter the air?

                All air conditioners have internal dust filters that are designed to reduce the amount of dust, crud, and pollen that gets into your home. Depending on where you live and the model of your AC, these filters will need to be either replaced or washed once or twice a year.

                That being said, regular dust filters can’t stop fine particles such as smoke, which can be a serious problem if you live in an area where wildfires occur. Luckily, there are some types of AC filters that are highly effective against smoke and other fine particles.

                These filters include:

                • Ionization filters can remove at least some smoke, but they’re believed to be far more effective in stopping dust, allergens, germs, and odours.
                • Catechin filters use a plant extract that has antibacterial and antifungal properties. They’re used to trap and eliminate mold spores, bacteria, and other organic particles.
                • HEPA filters (high-efficiency particulate air) are the superior option, but they aren’t typically used in AC systems. As a result, your best option is to get a HALO Purification System, which is a powerful whole-house steam-humidifier and air purification system that offers the most protection against harmful pollutants.

                Does AC remove dust?

                Your air conditioning system contains dust filters that are designed to “catch” the dust that’s coming in through the AC system. Unless you let your AC’s dust filters get dirty, they will dramatically reduce the amount of dust that gets inside your house.

                Needless to say, an AC unit can’t actually remove dust from your home or entirely prevent dust buildup. Some dust will still get in, and you’ll need to deal with it during your regular home cleanings.

                Does air conditioning improve air quality?

                The best way to improve your indoor air quality is by maintaining a good airflow and keeping your home clean. This will prevent dust, allergens, and other pollutants from building up inside your living space and negatively impacting your and your family’s health.

                Air conditioners are also extremely helpful because they keep the humidity and temperatures in your place at a reasonable level. This enables you to breathe easier, which in turn makes you feel more energetic and improves the quality of your sleep.

                Who provides first-rate air conditioning repair services in Chandler, Arizona?

                Does air conditioning improve air quality?Kicking back in a fully air-conditioned home after exercising at the Snedigar Recreation Center is one of the best ways to end your day. At Hughes Air, we’d like to help you with that by ensuring your AC system works like a charm all year long.

                In addition to being an award-winning heating and cooling contractor, we can also provide you with top-of-the-line air purification and steam humidifier systems that will keep your Chandler home free from dust, bacteria, pollen, and other dangerous particulates. Give us a call today.

                 

                What Should You Do When Your Air Conditioner Is Not Blowing Cold Air?

                July 23, 2020

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                  There’s nothing more frustrating than getting home after work, eager to cool down after spending all day in the sweltering Arizona heat, only to discover that your AC system is refusing to do its job.

                  To make matters worse, unless you’re a trained AC technician yourself, it’s often impossible to solve or even diagnose AC malfunctions without the help of a professional air conditioner repair service in Chandler, Arizona.

                  This is because there are multiple reasons why your AC may be blowing warm air or not turning on at all. Keep reading to learn more about the most common causes behind this AC malfunction, and what you can do about them.

                  Why is my AC not blowing cold air?

                  Whatever the cause of your AC’s malfunction may be, it should be addressed as soon as possible in order to prevent additional damage to the AC unit and possibly even the ductwork in your home.

                  Major reasons why an AC unit may not be blowing cold air include:

                  • Power issues
                  • Faulty or badly set up thermostat
                  • Clogged filters
                  • Ice buildup
                  • Compressor has gotten dirty
                  • Refrigerant is leaking or has run out

                  The best way to avoid these problems is by having a dependable AC repair service perform an annual checkup of your AC unit. This will ensure that any issues are identified and dealt with long before they can result in an expensive malfunction.

                  What do you do if your air conditioner isn’t cooling?

                  Air conditioning systems are complex devices that contain numerous moving parts. Unfortunately, this means they can fail in a variety of different ways and as a result can be notoriously difficult to troubleshoot without proper training and equipment.

                  Problems that you may be able to fix yourself include:

                  • Thermostat may be set on “ON” instead of on “AUTO”, which results in the fan running 24/7 even when the air isn’t being cooled.
                  • The air filters may have become clogged with dust and dirt. Depending on the model of your AC unit, you may be able to take the filters out yourself and wash or replace them.
                  • The outside unit (condenser) of your AC system may have gotten dirty or crowded with debris. Give it a good cleaning and see if that helps.
                  • If there’s an obstruction (for example, a piece of furniture) too close to your inside AC unit, it may keep the AC from properly blowing the cool air.

                  Problems that can only be fixed by a trained technician include:

                  • A broken or faulty condenser fan motor can prevent the outside unit of your AC from dissipating heat.
                  • Your AC may be running low on refrigerant, or you may be dealing with a refrigerant leak.
                  • A damaged compressor will keep the air conditioning system from circulating the refrigerant through the inside and outside units.
                  • Damaged or improperly installed ductwork can make it difficult for the AC to correctly circulate air.

                  Who do I call if I need dependable air conditioner repair in Chandler, Arizona?

                  We would all love to spend the hot summer days relaxing at the Nozomi Aquatic Center withWhat do you do if your air conditioner isn't cooling? our friends and loved ones, but our obligations often require us to stay at work or home. Needless to say, not having a working AC unit can make the time you spend indoors unbearable. What’s more, a poorly maintained AC can decrease the air quality in your home, damaging your overall well being.

                  The good news is, you’re not alone! Here at Hughes Air, we can proudly call ourselves the leading provider of AC installation and repair services in Chandler and nearby communities. Reach out to us today! We’ll fix any malfunctions your AC unit may have in no time.

                   

                  5 Common AC Problems in the Summer

                  July 23, 2020

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                    It’s hard to exaggerate the importance of having a working air conditioning system during the summer in Arizona. With the COVID-19 crisis forcing us to avoid public places and spend as much time indoors as possible, it’s likely that we’ll all be using our HVAC systems even more than usual. 

                    Unfortunately, like all mechanical devices, even the best AC system will sometimes malfunction or start operating at a reduced efficiency as a result of regular wear and tear. Knowing how to identify these problems as soon as they occur will save you a lot of discomfort and avoid costly repairs.

                    In the following article, we will list some common problems with HVAC systems that usually happen during summertime, and tell you how to fix them. Read on to learn more. 

                    What are the top 5 most common AC issues in the summer?

                    The majority of AC system malfunctions occur as a result of irregular maintenance or improper installation. That’s why you should always have your AC installed by a reputable company and make sure your annual AC checkups are performed by licensed AC technicians. 

                    Here are the 5 most common AC problems during summertime:

                    1. Duct leaks

                    The ductwork inside your house or apartment carries the cooled air and disperses it throughout your home. If the ductwork has been compromised (for example, there are holes in it), you’ll be losing cool air, which will prompt your AC unit to work harder and be less efficient. 

                    Call an AC repair service and have them examine your ductwork.

                    2. Refrigerant leaks

                    If there’s a refrigerant leak in your AC, not only will it not be able to do its job properly, but it may also damage the other components inside your AC. Keep in mind that replacing refrigerant or plugging the leak is something that can only be done by a registered AC technician.

                    3. Faulty fans

                    There are two fans inside most air conditioning systems. One of these fans cools the evaporator coils by blowing indoor air over them, while the other removes hot air from your home by blowing it over the outdoor condenser. 

                    These fans can malfunction in a variety of ways, including problems with the motor, insufficient lubrication, debris and dirt buildup, worn belts, and so on. If you hear strange noises coming out of your AC unit, you may be experiencing fan-related issues. 

                    4. Dirty filters

                    The more you use your AC system, the faster its filters will become clogged with dust and dirt. This will greatly reduce your AC’s efficiency. Exactly which type of filter your AC uses depends on the specific model of your AC unit. 

                    Some filters are made of plastic and can simply be washed by hand, while others need to be replaced completely after they become clogged. When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a trusted AC repair service. 

                    5. Clogged drains

                    Your air conditioner creates condensation as it operates. This normally isn’t a problem because this condensation is removed through the condensation drain. However, if the condensation drain becomes clogged, it can result in leaks, water backup, strange smells, mold growth, and even damage to your walls. 

                    Who provides the most reliable air conditioner repair services in Chandler, AZ?

                    What are the top 5 most common AC issues in the summer?As much as we would all love to go outside and enjoy a thrilling day at the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center with our friends and family, the health risks posed by the coronavirus pandemic mean that we’re all probably better off staying in our homes. 

                    Hughes Air is here to help. As the premier provider of AC repair and installation services in Chandler and other Arizona communities, we can ensure your AC system works like a charm throughout the hot summer months. Contact us today. 

                    11 Reasons Why Your Air Conditioning Unit Is Tripping the Circuit Breaker

                    June 26, 2020

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                      Is your circuit breaker getting tripped as soon as you turn on your AC unit? Unfortunately, this is a common air conditioner-related malfunction that can nonetheless be surprisingly difficult (and even dangerous) to diagnose and deal with.

                      But what exactly is AC tripping? Is there an easy way to fix it, or do you have to hire a professional Chandler AC repair company to tackle it? What are the most common air conditioner problems that cause AC tripping?

                      Keep reading to learn the answers to these questions.

                      What is AC tripping?

                      Circuit breakers are designed to protect the electrical systems in your home (and the devices that are plugged into them) by cutting off the electrical supply when a device attempts to pull more amps than the breaker is rated for.

                      For example, let’s say you have a 20-amp breaker and a 30-amp AC. As soon as the air conditioner tries to pull its 30 amps, the circuit breaker instantly trips. If it didn’t do that, there’s a considerable chance that both the AC and the electrical outlet would fry and possibly even catch on fire.

                      Why does my AC trip in the summer?

                      AC tripping can occur as a result of numerous problems, many of which may or may not be seasonally related. These problems can also cause your AC to have higher power consumption or be less efficient during warmer months.

                      Here are the top 11 reasons behind AC tripping and how to deal with them:

                      1. The air filter is dirty. Solve this by changing or (if possible) cleaning the air filter.
                      2. The AC’s motor has shorted out. The only way to fix this is by calling in an AC technician.
                      3. The compressor won’t start. Have an AC technician install a “hard start kit”.
                      4. The compressor is grounded. Have the compressor replaced by a licensed technician.
                      5. The capacitor is faulty. This will also need to be handled professionally.
                      6. The condenser coils are dirty. You can try to clean the coils on your own, but it’s probably safer to have it done by an expert.
                      7. The AC is running low on refrigerant. A technician will have to refill your refrigerant and deal with any leaks.
                      8. The wiring has become loose. Call in someone who is trained to handle electrical wiring.
                      9. The coil fan has become damaged. The fan will have to be replaced professionally.
                      10. The air conditioner is at the end of its life. Consider replacing your AC with a newer model.
                      11. The circuit breaker is faulty. Get an electrician to replace it.

                      How do I fix my AC trip?

                      Reset your breaker, turn it back on, and then turn on your AC. If the breaker doesn’t trip again, all is well and you can keep using your air conditioner normally. However, if the breaker trips again, it means there’s a serious problem with either your AC, or your electrical system, or both.

                      DO NOT attempt to solve this malfunction on your own. You’re dealing with a high amperage, high temperature, and most importantly, high voltage issue that can easily turn lethal if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing. Grab your phone and call in the professionals.

                      Who provides the most dependable Chandler AC repair services?

                      Why does my AC trip in the summer?With the COVID-19 epidemic still going strong in the US, having a working and environmentally-friendly air conditioner for the upcoming summer is more important than ever.

                      That’s where Hughes Air comes in. As the leading provider of AC repair services in Arizona, we will happily deal with any problems your AC might have while you enjoy a relaxing stroll by the Chandler Museum in the company of your friends and family. Give us a call today.