How a Thermostat Can Help You Save Money

September 30, 2021

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    How do smart thermostats save you moneyUsing an AC without a thermostat is possible, but it’s not very efficient. And when the thermostat is used improperly, it impacts the unit’s performance in a negative way. If anything bad happens, it’s a good thing that you can always call in the air conditioning repair service in Chandler, AZ. But in order to prevent any mishaps, you should learn how to use the thermostat to your advantage. Keep reading to learn more.

    Does turning down the thermostat save money?

    We’re living in a world where everything is becoming more expensive, so it’s natural for us to keep looking for new ways to save money, while simultaneously being eco-friendly. One of the things you can do if you have an air conditioning unit is to tweak the temperatures on your thermostat to reduce energy consumption.

    You might think that this will have a negative impact on your comfort, but you won’t actually be there when it happens. In summer, when you know you’ll be away from home, increase the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees. This will make the AC spend less energy because it won’t need to cool the air as much. The same thing can be done in winter, by decreasing the temperature.

    Research shows that doing this in the periods when you’re away from home or asleep can lower your electricity bill by 10%. And since an average household spends more than $1500 on utilities every year, this is the fastest way to save money. The higher your rates, the more you’ll save.

    How do smart thermostats save you money?

    Smart thermostats are all the rage these days. People like it when they don’t have to sweat the small stuff, and a smart device enables them to focus on more important tasks. Some of the features of modern smart thermostats include:

    • Wifi connection
    • Touch screen
    • Room sensor
    • HVAC compatibility
    • Energy tracking

    By being constantly connected to the internet, a smart thermostat can check the weather and adjust the room temperature accordingly. And with a touch screen usually comes a user-friendly interface. Smart thermostats also have an integrated room sensor that regulates the work of the AC by telling it when to turn on or off. 

    The main purpose of a smart thermostat is to keep the lowest comfortable temperature for as long as possible. And because it’s a smart device, it is programmed to automatically tweak the temperature in accordance with the outdoors.

    Another feature of the modern thermostats is energy tracking. It stores data about your energy consumption and can easily show you which months are the most expensive in your household. Smart thermostats are compatible with most AC units and it’s fairly easy to connect to them. However, not maintaining your AC can cause problems not only with the unit but also with the thermostat.

    The best way to use your smart thermostat and save money at the same time is to let it turn off when you’re not at home. This can be done automatically, by changing the active hours on the device. The AC can work without the thermostat, so if you need to use it, it won’t disrupt the settings.

    Does turning down the thermostat save moneyLooking for the best air conditioning repair service in Chander, AZ?

    If your air conditioning unit has seen better days or it simply stopped working, don’t hesitate to call Hughes Air! We offer various types of repair, maintenance, and installation services in Chandler, and all that for a fair price. 

    We’re here to solve any type of AC-related problem you may have, whether it’s the thermostat or the unit itself. Take a relaxing day off at Desert Breeze Lake with your family while we take care of your air conditioning system. Contact us today!

    How Does the Thermostat Affect AC Performance?

    September 30, 2021

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      Does the AC have anything to do with the thermostatWhen it comes to air conditioning units, many people purchase them without knowing much about how they work. And when you’re not well informed, improper use of the unit can cause it to malfunction. Luckily, in Chandler, AZ, there are professional AC repair services you can call if anything bad happens. 

      It’s important that you know how your cooling system works and what the best ways are to optimize its usage. This will lower your electricity bills without sacrificing the luxury of cool air in your home. The trick is in the thermostat. Learning how to manipulate your room temperature is easy when you know how the thermostat affects the AC. Read on!

      Does the AC have anything to do with the thermostat?

      Regardless of which thermostat type you have, the concept is the same. The main purpose of a thermostat is to control the work of your AC unit. Without it, an air conditioner can work only when you turn it on and set it to a preferred temperature. But this can be energy-consuming, as the unit requires more time to reach the set temperature when it’s manually turned on.

      By learning to properly utilize the thermostat, you can set it to automatically turn the AC on or off, depending on the changes in your room temperature. You can also save different settings for different times of the day. For example, you can set the temperature to be a few degrees higher in the hours when you’re not at home or when you’re sleeping.

      Does a bad thermostat affect air conditioning?

      Having a faulty thermostat is never a good thing. Not only does it rack up your electricity bill, but it can also damage your AC unit. You’ll know your thermostat is broken if you notice these signs:

      • The room temperature is different than the one on the display
      • Your AC won’t turn on or you can’t turn it off
      • The thermostat is unresponsive or it has no power

      If you’re certain that the thermostat is faulty, you can try a few things yourself before calling in the professionals. Check the settings on it and tweak the temperature by a few degrees higher or lower, depending on the season. The thermostat should let out a click or a sound and the unit should start working. 

      Try replacing the batteries or cleaning your thermostat if it still doesn’t work. If that doesn’t help, it’s time to call an AC repair service. Turn off your thermostat and use the air conditioner without it.

      Will an air conditioner work without a thermostat?

      In theory, a thermostat isn’t necessary for the AC to work. You can always set your temperature with a remote or use a sleep setting. Newer air conditioning models have a timer installed, so you can schedule in advance for how many hours you want your AC to work.

      However, the easiest way to control the temperature and working hours of your unit is with a smart thermostat. They are very cost-effective and they save you the hassle of messing around with the temperatures based on the outside weather. With a wifi connection, they do everything automatically, and when you don’t need them, you can easily turn them off.

      Does a bad thermostat affect air conditioningHaving troubles with your thermostat in Chandler, AZ? Contact the best AC repair service!

      With the temperatures at an all-time high these days, a faulty thermostat is very unwelcome in homes around Chandler. This is why Hughes Air is here to help you! Instead of trying to fix it yourself, avoid the risk of further damaging it by giving us a call! 

      We’re at your disposal for any type of HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance services. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Hohokam Pima National Monument with your friends while we take care of your thermostat and AC!

      3 Easy Ways to Save Money on Air Conditioning

      August 31, 2021

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        How can I save money on my air conditionerHaving an AC was once considered a luxury due to the comfort it provided and the expenses it brought. Nowadays, newer ACs are designed to be as affordable and as sustainable as possible, so their energy consumption isn’t that high if you use them properly.

        Unfortunately, many people in Chandler still use their air conditioners in a way that not only makes them less energy-efficient, but may also cause them to malfunction and require the help of an AC repair company a lot sooner than they normally should. 

        To help you keep your utility bills down and get as much mileage as possible out of your AC, we have prepared a list of 3 time-tested ways to save money when using your AC without sacrificing your comfort. Keep reading to learn more.

        How can I save money on my air conditioner?

        Many people fear that getting an AC will increase their long-term expenses. This isn’t the case because, compared to other forms of cooling, air conditioners tend to be both more energy-efficient and to provide higher levels of comfort.

        Here are 3 ways to keep your room temperature cooler without racking up your bills:

        1. Use the thermostat to your advantage

        Set your thermostat a few degrees higher while you’re away from home. This will ensure that your home is still comfortably cool when you return, while also reducing your overall energy consumption. Try not to go too high or too low on the temperatures, and set your thermostat to a somewhat tolerable degree. The U.S Department of Energy recommends 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

        2. Block the sunlight

        Sun brings us light and heat, and one doesn’t go without the other. By darkening your rooms, they’ll naturally be colder and you won’t need to turn on the AC as much. Lower the blinds or invest in solar screens to keep the heat out of your home. If you choose to do it, make sure that your west- and east-facing windows are covered, as they are the most exposed.

        Even if you don’t want to invest in screens, you can still keep your rooms cool. Close the windows on the east and west sides of the house and make your rooms as dark as possible. Of course, leave enough sunlight so that you can still comfortably move around without needing to switch on the lights.

        3. Service your AC regularly

        Scheduling annual AC tuneups is a must if you want to keep your air conditioners healthy and efficient. That being said, there are also a few simple maintenance tasks you can perform on your own without the need to call the pros. 

        For example, changing the filter improves air quality, increases efficiency, and can prevent compressor failure and other AC-related problems. You should also keep the area around the condenser clear of any debris or dirt, as it can easily become clogged.

        The thermostat should also be checked every once in a while, as it can break over time and display the wrong temperature or send faulty signals to your AC. If you suspect your thermostat may be faulty and changing the batteries doesn’t help, call in a HVAC technician.

        Do you live in Chandler and want to hire a professional AC repair companyDo you live in Chandler and want to hire a professional AC repair company? 

        Air conditioners are complex devices that contain many potential points of failure. If your AC isn’t operating as it should, refrain from attempting to resolve the problem yourself and call in a reputable HVAC company such as Hughes Air. 

        We’re a long-standing HVAC contractor that offers a wide range of HVAC repair, maintenance, and installation services across Chandler and the surrounding communities. Call us today and have a fun day at the Chandler Museum while we make short work of any AC-related problems you may have.

        How Much Energy Do Air Conditioners Use

        August 31, 2021

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          Do air conditioners use a lot of electricityPeople today are increasingly more aware of the negative effects the technologies we use on a daily basis have on the environment. That’s why modern devices are specifically designed to be as energy-efficient as possible, while harmful chemicals such as the old Freon AC refrigerant are being discontinued and replaced with more eco-friendly alternatives. 

          But what about the AC you use to cool down your home? Is it true that newer ACs not only spend a lot less power, but also don’t require air conditioning repair nearly as often as their older counterparts do? Is equipping your home in Chandler going to significantly reduce your energy expenditures? Read on to learn the answers to these questions. 

          Do air conditioners use a lot of electricity?

          Air conditioners work in a similar way to refrigerators. If you live in an apartment or a small house, a split-system air conditioning unit is a highly cost-effective cooling option. However, when buying one, make sure to install it in an optimal spot to enable the air to circulate without obstacles.

          On the other hand, if your house is larger and you need more window units to cool it down, investing in a central air conditioning system is likely the more cost-effective option. These systems are also easy to install, as they only need to be hooked up to your existing heating ducts. 

          Energy-wise, air conditioning and other cooling units use:

          • Window unit – between 0.9 and 1.8 kWh
          • Central unit – between 3 and 3.5 kWh
          • Ceiling fan – between 0.025 and 0.075 kWh
          • Whole house fan – between 0.2 and 0.4 kWh
          • Pedestal fan – 0.03 kWh

          As you can see, energy consumption of air conditioners is nothing compared to a fridge, which uses 90-150 kWh. Adding an air conditioning unit won’t significantly increase your electricity bill as much and can even save you money. The only question that remains is: which air conditioner should you choose?

          Are new air conditioners more energy efficient?

          If we look at the history of air conditioners, we can conclude that the first ones were not so cheap and very energy-consuming. When the U.S. Department of Energy passed legislation in 1992 regarding the air conditioning requirements, only ACs that had an efficiency of 6 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) were allowed to be produced and sold.

          This number was changed in 2006 to 13 SEER, so most of today’s older air conditioners have this efficiency. Newer models are rated from 14 to 20 SEER. This change occurred because the higher the SEER, the less power the unit consumes. Using newer models also improves the quality of the airflow and, combined with the HVAC filter, helps in purifying the air and keeping it free of allergens, dust, and dander.

          If you choose a central air conditioning unit, you’ll get a thermostat as well, which makes it even easier to control your AC. What’s more, getting a central AC unit doesn’t necessarily mean an increase to your electricity bills. Depending on the outdoor temperatures, setting your thermostat down to a lower temperature can even be cost-effective.

          Are new air conditioners more energy efficientWhere can I find the best air conditioning repair service in Chandler?

          Although modern ACs are built to last, they still need to be serviced on a regular basis to remain as efficient as possible. That’s where Hughes Air comes in. Our team of HVAC experts in Chandler is ideally equipped to install, repair, and maintain your air conditioners, regardless of model, production date, or size. Take a day off and visit the Arizona Railway Museum while we make any AC-related problems you may have disappear!

          How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

          July 30, 2021

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            Does air conditioning help indoor air qualityWhen we think of air pollution, the first thing that comes to mind is the black smoke that comes out of a car’s exhaust pipe and a factory’s chimneys. But did you know that indoor air is often up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air? 

            Air conditioners can help in filtering out the bad indoor air, but what happens if you don’t have an AC or if it has broken down and you’re yet to call in an AC repair service in Chandler, AZ? To help you out, we have prepared a list of simple tips that will help you keep your indoor air clean and fresh. Keep reading to learn more.

            How can I improve indoor air quality?

            In every house, there are potential air pollutants that people aren’t even aware of. Dust is always present, no matter how hard we try to get rid of it. Likewise, allergens, spores, and toxins regularly make their way into our homes and contaminate our indoor air.

            Here are a few tricks that can help you improve your indoor air quality:

            1. Stock up on plants

            You probably know that the forests are the healthiest places on earth. They are literally named the “lungs of the planet”. This is because they serve as a big air filter which collects all the pollutants and produces freshness. To achieve this in your own home, put a plant in every room, no matter its size. You will feel an improvement in a matter of hours.

            2. Vacuum regularly

            Most of the particles that linger in the air eventually fall down to the floor. This is why the floors get dirty even if no one has walked on them. Carpets can collect dust and allergens and this can aggravate chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. 

            Make sure to clean your floors at least twice a week and watch the quality of your indoor air improve. For extra effectiveness, invest in a HEPA vacuum cleaner.

            3. Change your AC filter

            Your AC may be the source of the air pollution in your house. It might not even be broken. Have you checked its filter? A clogged filter could be the reason why your AC isn’t cooling your house the way it used to. Change the AC filter (or wash it, if it’s reusable) or replace it with a HEPA filter if possible.

            Does air conditioning help indoor air quality?

            Studies have shown that having an AC in your home significantly improves air quality. This is because every HVAC uses a filter that traps the pollutants and lets out fresh and cool air. By having it set to the optimal temperature, your AC will make your home a safer and more comfortable space to eat, sleep, work and relax in. 

            An AC can improve your indoor air quality by:

            • Providing constant ventilation
            • Removing allergens and pollutants from the air
            • Maintaining a constant room temperature
            • Providing humidity control

            How can I improve indoor air qualityLooking for a certified AC repair service in Chandler, AZ?

            If your AC is in need of a maintenance check-up, or you’ve noticed there’s something wrong with it, you’ve come to the right place! As the leading provider of professional AC repair, maintenance, and installation services in Chandler, Hughes Air is superbly positioned to meet your every AC-related need. 

            Give us a call today and we’ll send someone to have a look at your AC. Our technicians are highly experienced, trained, and efficient, so feel free to relax at the Chandler Tennis Center while we restore your air conditioner to its old glory!

            4 Ways to Cool Down Your House Fast

            July 30, 2021

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              Where can I find a good air conditioning repair service in ChandlerSummer is a very unpredictable season. The weather can vary between dry and humid, rainy and sweltering, and in both of these situations, staying home sounds tempting. A functioning AC is a must-have to ensure your and your family’s comfort during these hot days.

              That’s why having your AC break down during a summer afternoon and having to call in an emergency air conditioning repair service in Chandler is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a homeowner. 

              Luckily, there are simple and effective ways to cool your home while you wait for your AC to be repaired. We’ve prepared a list of 4 tried-and-true tips that can help you keep the summer heat out. Read on.

              How can I cool my house down fast?

              If you have an AC in your house, you probably turn it on as soon as the weather outside calls for sunscreen and lighter clothing. However, sometimes your AC may not be able to cool down your house as well as it used to. This means that it’s probably time to call a service and find another way to keep your place cool.

              Here are 4 ways to keep your home cool without an AC:

              1. Close the blinds

              Since sunlight is strongest in the summer, it would be best if you make your rooms darker by pulling down the blinds on your windows. This will reduce the amount of heat that the sun produces and the temperature of the room will drop down in a matter of minutes. The room will feel like you got your AC at an optimal temperature and you’ll instantly feel relieved.

              2. Make a cross-breeze

              By opening two windows on opposite sides of the house, you’ll create a cross-breeze. Not only will this improve the airflow in your home, it will also improve the air quality in your room, as it was probably stale from the heat. Just make sure that your windows are locked in their open positions so that they don’t slam shut when a stronger wind blows.

              3. DIY air conditioning

              For this little project, all you’ll need is a fan and some ice. If you place a bowl of ice in front of the fan, the air that comes out will be cooler. Also, try pointing the fan upwards. Hot air is lighter so it lingers closer to the ceiling, while cold air tends to stay closer to the floor. By blowing upwards, the fan creates cold air which falls down and cools the room even faster.

              How can I cool my house down fast4. Reduce the use of hot appliances

              Instead of blow drying your hair, let it air dry. It’s summer, after all, you’re allowed to have a natural hair day every once in a while. Or if you need to blowdry it, use the cold setting on your hair-dryer. The goal here is to limit the heat which the appliances produce. 

              If you can, use the oven less and opt for a microwave instead. It may still produce some heat, but it won’t turn your whole room into a sauna when you heat up your food. The best cure for high temperatures is a cold meal, so you could enjoy some ice cream or other foods that don’t have to be cooked. You’ll have fun and stay cool in the process.

              Where can I find a good air conditioning repair service in Chandler?

              If you’ve tried all of these tips and they still don’t make your room cool enough, don’t worry, because Hughes Air is here! Our specialists will examine your AC and repair it in no time! While they work on making your AC look and work as good as new, you can take a relaxing day off by visiting the Chandler Community Center. Give us a call today to set up an appointment!

              Helpful Tips on Setting the Right AC Temperature

              June 29, 2021

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                A properly functioning air conditioner will bring you the necessary breath of freshness and keep your home at a comfortable temperature during summer. To create a truly comfortable environment, it’s important to know how to adjust the thermometer settings properly. This will help you not only create a pleasant atmosphere, but also ensure optimal AC performance. 

                This is particularly important if you live in an area with hot summers such as Chandler, AZ. If you’re not certain how to properly adjust the temperature, you can always consult experienced professionals who offer expert AC repair service.  In this article, you will find answers to a few common questions when it comes to adjusting the temperature of your AC system.

                What is the average temperature to set air conditioning?

                Maybe you can troubleshoot AC problems, but it is very important that the care of your air conditioner is led by professionals. Proper and regular maintenance of your cooling system will result in efficient use of energy. This also applies to temperature adjustment. Most experts, as well as users, agree that setting the temperature between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the optimal average temperature that gives the best results. 

                However, depending on how sunny and warm it is in your region, the settings may vary. For instance, some homeowners set their AC temperature between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

                How many degrees should an air conditioner cool per hour?

                In warm periods, your first instinct would probably be to cool down your home as soon as possible. However, how many degrees an AC unit should cool on an hourly basis isn’t easy to determine because this depends on several factors such as:

                • How big the space you want to cool is
                • Whether your attic is properly ventilated
                • If your air conditioner is of the right size
                • Whether your AC is functioning properly
                • How hot your home is at the moment you turn on your AC

                Within one hour, a functional air conditioner in a medium-sized home should lower the temperature by 3 F°. This means that after about three hours, the temperature will drop by almost 10 F°.

                How do I make my air conditioner colder?

                Even if your air conditioner works properly, you may want to boost its efficiency and ensure its optimal performance. There are a couple of little steps you can take:

                Clean your outdoor unit

                Make sure that the condenser in the outdoor unit runs smoothly. Clean it regularly from leaves, dust, dirt, and debris.

                Replace the filter

                Filters should be replaced before each season, as they are very affordable and will certainly contribute to better AC performance. Another equally easy option would be to wash them using some soapy water, dry them, and then put them back. However, if you’re not sure how to tackle this task, feel free to give professionals a call. 

                Check the refrigerant levels

                Always check if there is enough refrigerant or whether a refill is needed. If there’s not enough refrigerant fluid, it’s best to call the pros since the wrong kind of it may cause malfunction within the unit.

                Look for and fix air leaks

                Gaps and cracks around doors and windows, as well as cracks around plumbing pipes, vents, or spots between the walls and ceiling, can be easily fixed, yet have a significant effect on your overall home environment.

                Which experts in Chandler, AZ offer AC repair service?

                If maintained properly and serviced regularly, your AC system can fill your home with freshness and boost the indoor air quality in your home. However, if you suspect that there might be a possible malfunction, you should react straight away and reach out to qualified professionals. 

                Reach out to Hughes Air and our technicians will gladly help you with any AC-related problem you may have. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we are your top choice for any type of AC service. And while our professionals identify and fix the problem, you can spend a pleasant afternoon with the family at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center. Call us today!

                AC Cooling Problems: What’s Wrong?

                June 29, 2021

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                  Air conditioning is an almost indispensable and inevitable home appliance, especially during the summer months. That is why a huge problem arises if the device fails. It may be even worse for air conditioning to work, but with minor hidden failures and thus not at full capacity, which will lead to a serious malfunction at some point.

                  When a failure occurs, it is often not easy to determine what caused it. For that reason, it is good to schedule regular AC repair service, especially if you’re located in an area with sweltering hot summers such as Chandler or other Arizona cities.

                  Whether you want to lower the temperature in the house quickly or keep the temperature at an average level, it’s important that you know what are the underlying causes of your AC malfunction so that you can properly address them. Here are a few reasons that may be hindering your AC performance.

                  Why is my AC not cooling my house?

                  If your air conditioner has been working for a while now without any effect, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is time for a new unit. It may be a minor problem that professionals can fix easily and increase the energy efficiency of your air conditioner. Pay attention to the following most common causes of this type of problem:

                  1. Dusty filter

                  Mostly, the culprit number one are clogged filters. Dust, dirt, pet, or human hair can clog AC filters. When the filters are blocked and prevent unobstructed air flow, an inefficient cooling of the room occurs. To prevent overheating and malfunctions, some models are programmed to shut down on their own. This problem can be easily prevented by cleaning the filter regularly.

                  2. Low or leaking refrigerant

                  A low level of refrigerant or its complete lack can lead to your air conditioner not working. Maybe it needs to be refilled or it is leaking somewhere, but leave that to professionals.

                  3. Leaky air ducts

                  This is one of the problems that occurs in AC systems that have older ductwork. Cool air may leak through possible holes in the ducts. To determine if this is the case, give experts a call to inspect your unit and take steps to resolve the problem. 

                  4. Thermostat troubles

                  Check if your thermostat is set to “auto” because if this is the case, the unit will start to cool only when it reaches a certain level of temperature. Also, make sure that you set the AC temperature lower than the temperature of your room, so your unit can actually turn on.

                  5. Outdoor unit problems

                  The fan within the condenser could get clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris. This build-up causes your air conditioner to accumulate hot air that has nowhere to go.

                  6. Compressor malfunctions

                  The compressor in the outside unit is one of the most important parts of your cooling system. Its purpose is to exchange refrigerant between the outdoor and indoor units. When damaged, the whole system cannot work.

                  However, keep in mind that there are some small and inexpensive components in the unit itself which may be faulty and their failure may be misinterpreted as a faulty compressor. Therefore, it’s advisable that you reach out to skilled technicians and let them handle the issue. 

                  7. Poor home insulation 

                  Finally, the problem may not be with your air conditioner at all. Maybe your home is not properly insulated or has some cracks through which the cool air comes out. You should check if there are any leaks around your doors and windows, as well as other areas in your home. 

                  Should I turn my AC off if it’s not cooling?

                  If your air conditioner is working and not cooling down the room, you should consider turning it off immediately and calling professionals to prevent further damage. 

                  How to find the best AC repair service in Chandler?

                  Proper and regular AC maintenance is necessary to extend the life of your unit. A well-functioning air conditioner may even increase indoor air quality. However, if you notice that your air conditioner is not working properly, give experienced technicians a call – Hughes Air. 

                  Hughes Air provides professional assistance with an array of AC issues. Our experienced team of specialists will determine the cause of a problem and take steps to resolve it, bringing freshness and airiness to your home. While our team of qualified experts inspect, clean, and repair your air conditioner, you can relax and spend a nice afternoon with your family in the Arizona Railway Museum. We are a reliable company which has been in business for years and we are here for you too. Contact us today and schedule a meeting!

                  Why Is Servicing Your AC Important?

                  May 31, 2021

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                    Your air conditioner has a lot of moving parts that need to be clean and synchronized in order to work properly. At the same time, taking care of your system properly and on a regular basis can save you both time and money.

                    That being said, the vast majority of conditioners last for 10 years. However, with proper AC maintenance service, you can double that lifetime without much effort. You would not want to run out of air conditioning in the middle of summer, right?

                    What happens if you don’t service your air conditioner?

                    There is a complete AC maintenance checklist that professionals use to detect and eliminate potential problems. However, without that type of service, you may expect to experience some of the following issues. 

                    1. Dust and dirt buildups

                    Without proper maintenance and cleaning,  your AC will first start to accumulate dust and dirt. Your unit is there to provide you fresh, clean air. The condenser, an important part of the system, can also accumulate dirt if neglected. If this happens, all the dirt and dust from the condenser can go into the filter and then straight into your room. This will result in two things:

                    • Your electricity bills will increase since the dust is blocking the heat pump and the whole system, preventing it from operating properly. 
                    • You will probably start operating your AC at lower cooling levels, which will put too much pressure on your unit. 

                    Layers of dust and fine debris can also affect the blower that can get blocked. This will cause it to barely work at minimum efficiency. After some period of time, this can even cause a total system failure. This means that you may even need a new AC system.

                    2. Faulty thermostat

                    Improper maintenance can also affect the AC thermostat. When the thermostat of your unit does not function properly, it is not just a matter of comfort in your home, but it is a serious issue that can affect the whole AC system.

                    3. AC leaks

                    If the drain hole is somehow blocked with the already mentioned dust, it’s not uncommon for an AC to start leaking. In this case, leaks may start to occur in the AC interior (in the unit itself) or exterior (down the wall). This kind of leakage may also happen if seals aren’t tight enough in the system or if the hose is blocked.

                    4. Freon issues

                    Freon is also likely to start leaking without annual maintenance. This type of issue increases pressure on the compressor. Since changing the compressor is both expensive and demanding, make sure to regularly check and refill your freon or seek expert assistance.

                    Can we use AC without servicing?

                    While it is technically possible to use an air conditioner without servicing, it’s important to mention that the unit will likely be operational for a maximum of two or three years. Without servicing, a split system, for instance, will become unusable.

                    What’s more, this can have additional consequences such as ineffective heating or cooling, reduced unit capacity, higher electricity bills, and others. Therefore, it’s advisable to take precautionary measures for your AC rather than to pay for repair or a new system.

                    Who can I call for AC maintenance service in Scottsdale & the area?

                    Making sure your air conditioning system is working properly will enable you and your family to enjoy  a comfortable home environment. Of course, this should be handled by experienced pros for the best results. If you are looking for a reliable AC contractor in Scottsdale or any other Arizona city, here at Hughes Air, we have the necessary experience and tools.

                    As the top provider with highly trained professionals, we can deal with any cooling or heating related problem you may have. Call us today and our technicians will ensure that your air conditioning system stays in excellent condition, while you can spend an unforgettable day in OdySea Aquarium. Contact us today!

                    What Are the Best Spring Settings for Your Air Conditioner?

                    March 30, 2021

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                      What should my AC be set to in springYou can invest in the most modern and expensive air conditioning system on the market, but all those cutting-edge features won’t matter if you don’t know what to set your AC to in spring to maximize efficiency and comfort. Luckily for you, finding the perfect balance between comfort and efficiency isn’t nearly as hard as it may seem. 

                      In previous articles, we supplied you with a brief guide on how to make your AC spring-ready and explained why keeping your air conditioner clean is essential and how to do it. Now we’ll explain how you can set up your AC to optimize its performance during the warmer months of the year. Read on to learn more. 

                      What should my AC be set to in spring?

                      Normal cooling settings for thermostats in Chandler, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Phoenix, and other Arizona cities are recommended to be at 75-80 degrees fahrenheit. Setting them higher than this while you’re home can make your home feel stuffy, while setting them lower will shorten the life of your AC by forcing it to keep up with the extreme Arizona temperatures. 

                      Here’s a good rule of thumb when setting your temperatures:

                      • 78 degrees fahrenheit when you’re home
                      • 85 degrees fahrenheit when you’re away or at work
                      • 82 degrees fahrenheit while you’re sleeping

                      What is the ideal AC setting?

                      Unfortunately, a universal answer to this question simply doesn’t exist. Your and your family’s ideal settings will vary widely depending on the time of year, the weather conditions in your area, the insulation in your home, the size of your AC relative to the size of the area it’s supposed to cool or heat up, the way your body reacts to changes in temperature, and more.

                      Furthermore, aging or faulty air conditioners can become less efficient than they used to be. As a result, the same temperature settings that used to be perfect for you before will no longer be able to “hit the sweet spot” in your household. 

                      When in doubt, it’s best to follow the settings we recommended above, or reach out to a reputable HVAC service and consult with a registered technician directly. 

                      How to save energy when setting your thermostat?

                      As a general rule, you want to set your thermostat to the highest possible temperature you can stand during summer, and vice versa during winter. This way, you’ll be able to maintain comfortable temperatures without overburdening your HVAC system and adding hundreds of dollars to your energy bill.

                      Other ways to keep your home cool include:

                      • Blinds and blackout curtains can be used to block direct sunlight, which will greatly reduce the amount of heat that gets into your home.
                      • Throw open the windows. In many parts of America, night temperatures are as many as 20 degrees lower than day temperatures. In the evening, simply switch off your AC and open the windows to let in cool air.
                      • Ceiling fans can make any room they’re in feel up to 4 degrees colder. This enables you to save energy by setting your thermostat higher.

                      Who should I call when I need AC repair in Chandler, Arizona?

                      What is the ideal AC settingIf you still aren’t sure what to set your AC to in the spring, or your air conditioner has started acting up in some way, your best course of action is to reach out to Hughes Air. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, we are your top choice for all your heating and cooling needs in Chandler. 

                      Our technicians will gladly deal with any HVAC-related problem you may have while you focus on your other responsibilities or simply relax at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center with your friends and loved ones. Call us today.