Having a pet is one of the greatest joys of life but at the same time one of the greatest responsibilities. Owners have to take care of them because pets are not simply toys; they are family members who need care and attention.

Pets require walking and cleaning up after, but there is also effort required when it comes to maintaining your HVAC systems and providing a safe environment for them. Air conditioning in Gilbert, Arizona can be a welcome addition for homeowners, but they also need to have their pets in mind.

Here are some of the useful tips for HVAC maintenance for pet owners.

Regular cleaning

Pet owners should give their pets regular baths in order to prevent possible accumulation of dirt they have brought from outside walks. Pet dander is one of the leading causes of allergies, especially when it is distributed through an HVAC system. Regular baths need to be followed by regular brushing, as well as vacuuming and dusting of the home area.

Regular HVAC check-up

Homeowners should have their HVAC systems checked up regularly, especially if they have a pet. Having a pet means their dander or hair can get in the HVAC system and clog it, resulting in reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption. Regular check-ups will also prevent the allergens from spreading, as well as increase the heating and cooling system lifespan.

Upgrading the filter

Apart from the obligatory regular filter check-up, a good idea might be to upgrade it. The right choice for pet owners is a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, which can be used to better filter out the allergens and pollutants in your home.

Check for exposed wires

An HVAC system can have exposed wires, which can be interesting to your pets. No matter if they are puppies or grown pets, they might find themselves chewing the wires, which can lead to a real disaster. In order to prevent this from happening, you should check the whole place for exposed wires, and enclose them in a conduit, so your pets can’t get hurt.

Cover the condenser units

If your pet can roam the backyard freely, it might find its way to the outside condenser unit of your HVAC system and make trouble. Some pets might try to dig or claw the units, which might hurt their feet or damage the unit. Others, such as dogs, might urinate on the unit, marking their territory, which can corrode the unit and leak to dangerous leaks. This is why it is a good idea to enclose the outside unit inside a fence or other type of barrier which will prevent your pet from reaching it.

Clean and seal the ducts

Not only does your air filter needs to be cleaned, but also the air ducts, which take the air from the HVAC unit and distributes it through your home. They need to be thoroughly cleaned from all the pet hair and dander, so they can operate clearly. You should also look for possible leaks because this is another way the ducts can be compromised. After sealing them, you can rest assured the air quality will be higher.

Ensure your home is safe for your pet

At Hughes Air Conditioning, Heating & Cooling, we have the skilled technicians who can do a check-up of your HVAC system and make sure it is optimized and safe for your pet. Call us to schedule a visit so we can ensure the best possible option and comfort for your home.

Programmable thermostats are becoming more and more popular and common throughout the United States. Due to the average temperatures and the usual heat, an air conditioner in Tempe AZ is a necessity for homeowners. More and more people have started to notice the financial and other benefits of owning a programmable thermostat. Here are some of them.

Reduced energy and money spending

One of the first and foremost benefits of having a programmable thermostat is the fact that it can save you a lot of money on electricity bills. This is achieved by getting better acquainted with all the functions of your system, so you can use the most of it. By programming it according to your daily and weekend routine, you can significantly lower your energy usage, which automatically means lower electricity bills. Why waste energy and money when you are not home, simply program your system and it will reduce the cost for you.

Consistent temperature

Regardless of the size of your apartment or house, a programmable thermostat will help you maintain an ideal temperature in all the rooms. You can choose the way you want your home to be air conditioned, and set it up so the temperature is constant whenever you wake up or return from work or a trip. This means that not only you, but both your family and friends coming over can always feel comfortable, no matter what time of year it is.

Faster adjusting

Unlike manual thermostats, which require you to adjust them every time you wake up or leave the house, programmable thermostats will use up less of your time. You will not need that much practice to start using them and no extra steps to go through to use it optimally. When you input the settings, they will last for as long as they suit you, and you probably won’t have to change them until the end of the season.

Ease of use

Programmable thermostats have a user-friendly interface, presented through a touchscreen. This means that you do not have to turn the dial, as is the case with a manual one. The screen will provide you with all the important information at a glance, so you can instantly see your settings.

Different thermostats have different settings, but all of them offer some default suggestions to ease you into programming them. They are convenient and will provide you with the comfort you require, in addition to saving you time and money.

Remote control

Since programmable thermostats are newer than manual ones, they come equipped with modern technology. This can be seen in technology allowing you to program your HVAC system remotely, by using a laptop, tablet or smartphone. It is done simply through the use of an app, enabling you to control it from anywhere you want. For instance, if you go on a trip and forget to adjust the temperature in your house, you can log in to the app and switch it off or turn it up, depending on the weather forecast.

Zoned heating and cooling

Another benefit of having a programmable thermostat is that it can help you if you want to have different temperature zones throughout your property. That’s how you can simultaneously have a warmer room and a cooler room, without the need to go through the house and set the zones manually. You will have full control of all the zones, which are completely customizable and hassle-free.

Install a programmable thermostat in your home

If this list has made you consider installing a programmable thermostat in your home, contact us at Hughes Air Conditioning, Heating & Cooling to get practical suggestions on time, money and energy-saving solutions for your HVAC system. Take advantage of what modern technology has to offer and invest into a home optimized for the needs of you and your family.

As promised in our previous article with FAQs about HVAC, we’re back with new helpful pieces of information on heating and cooling, that indispensable part of modern living, especially if you live in Mesa, Arizona.

Read on to find out more about the health and safety aspects, efficiency matters, and the type of air conditioner and furnace that’s perfect for you!

Is AC Safe to Use?

Yes, it is. There’s no doubt that air conditioning in Mesa, AZ is a lifesaver. But a neglected air-conditioner can have a detrimental effect on people. A contaminated unit can provoke or exacerbate asthma and allergies. On the other hand, a properly maintained one can improve the air quality in your home or office. In addition to that and luckily for us, modern units come with all sorts of improvements regarding health and safety.

Am I Getting My Money’s Worth?

Is your AC on but somehow you don’t feel comfortable? If you feel that your unit is doing a lousy job, it might simply be badly in need of maintenance. For optimum efficiency and performance, regular maintenance is key. This will not only improve its performance but cut the electricity costs in the winter and summer months. Today’s minimum requirement for SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is 14 and goes as high as 21.

The general recommendation for residential HVAC units is to have them serviced about 3-4 times annually. Office HVAC units need maintenance more often due to their heavy use. Don’t forget that regular maintenance will also save you money in the long run since you’ll avoid having your unit break down just when you need it the most. Sometimes, however, as previously discussed, a replacement is the only way out.

What is the right HVAC type for me?

If you’re planning the purchase of an HVAC unit or thinking of replacing your old one due to it being shabbily designed, outdated or simply an insatiable energy hog, you might find yourself overwhelmed by choice complexity. Luckily for you, we’ve looked into the list of main factors to consider and broke it down for you.

ECM Motor – this is a must have and all modern units do. Not only does it significantly reduce electricity costs and raise the system’s efficiency, but also helps maintain proper air flow. This will both filter the air and allow it to circulate, which is good news if you have allergies.
HVAC size matters – depending on its intended purpose and location, determining the right size is the number one thing. A system that’s too big might be too much. It will be extremely efficient but give you an uncomfortable feeling due to excessive humidity and moisture. This can not only create mold, but also reduce the unit’s lifespan. A system that’s too small, on the other hand, will have to run non-stop and might still fail to reach the desired temperature. The choice depends on your home or office structure, but also insulation, orientation, wall and window type, etc. Seek expert advice to make the right call.
Cost – the higher the SEER ratio, the more efficiency and less noise. Then again, the higher it goes, the pricier it gets. Still, consider whether saving some money on a new unit now will end up costing you more in the years to come.

Keep your air conditioner in tip-top condition

Hughes Air Conditioning, Heating & Cooling boasts a team of air conditioner Mesa AZ experts – we handle all AC and other HVAC-related repairs, maintenance, installations and upgrades. Contact us at (480) 247-6927 or online!

If you live in Mesa, AZ, you know the feeling. You are instantly relieved just thinking of that cool indoor breeze when you return home on a sweltering hot Arizona day and are just about to turn on the air-conditioner, but here’s what must be worrying you:

How will it affect your or your family’s allergies?

Whether you already suffer from allergies or worry that you might develop them, a neglected AC might be the Trojan horse to lead them straight to you. Worry not, since we have some handy tips in store for you to help you use your AC in a carefree manner.

Moderation is Everything

The moment you step into your home from that blistering heat, you want that AC running. But wait, allow your body to cool down naturally for several minutes before switching it on. Also, if you set the temperature too low, it might irritate your sinuses and aggravate your allergy as the air will grow less humid as well.

On the other hand, moderate and proper usage of your AC unit should in fact be beneficial. When the heat from the schorching Mesa, Arizona sun becomes too much to bear, using your AC unit in a responsible way can literally be a life-saver.

Do Air-conditioned Rooms Make Us Sick?

When it comes to HVAC units, efficiency and cost-effectiveness might be the first two aspects to spring to mind, but we can all agree that our well-being is our top priority. Furthermore, new technology and professionals’ expertise pretty much have the first two covered, but what about health and safety?

Although there’s no such thing as AC allergy, a poorly maintained air-conditioner and its likely effects (headache, nasal congestion, fatigue, shortness of breath) can make you regret being negligent.

You might develop the so-called Sick Building Syndrome. Your unit’s lack of maintenance can lead to it becoming a proper breeding ground and safe haven for microorganisms. These may have a detrimental effect on you, depending on your sensitivity. Regular maintenance, however, solves this problem so you can cool off and relax without concern.

Filter out the Bad

Trust us, you want to give those filters regular and thorough cleaning. The moisture and condensation generated by air-conditioning must be efficiently removed by the unit so as not to affect the air quality in your room but let you inhale clean air. When properly maintained and used, your AC unit should filter out the welter of contaminants that modern urban living carries.

On a related note, regularly wash the carpets, at least the bedroom ones, as they trap allergens, especially without fresh air circulation.

Having a pet is an another reason to clean the filters regularly, as in addition to harmful bacteria, funghi, dust mites, pollen and chemicals, your pet’s hair and dander might get trapped in there as well. The air you and your family then breathe can only exacerbate your allergy’s symptoms. Cleaning your filters regularly is therefore a must. You might do this by yourself or simply leave it to the professionals.

Solution for all Air Conditioning Issues in Mesa, AZ

Hughes Air Conditioning, Heating & Cooling has a 3-decades strong experience with AC-related issues. We have helped countless customers keep their homes and premises comfortably cool and ensured they have a supply of fresh and healthy air. We can do the same for you! Whether it’s installation, repair or an AC upgrade, we’re the go-to HVAC contractor in Mesa, AZ! Contact us today!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

HVAC Maintenance Tips for Pet Owners