Common Summertime Air Conditioning Repairs

July 24th, 2013

The summer is a beautiful time of year and is perfect for enjoying the sunshine and warm weather. But with all the heat, most homeowners end up running their air conditioning systems a lot more. Here at Sound Heating we offer fast and reliable Tacoma air conditioning repair and we wanted to put together a few of the more common air conditioning repairs that we see. Give us a call if you’re having any issues with your air conditioning system and keep an eye out for the repairs listed below.

Tacoma Air Conditioning Repair Services

  • Not enough cooling – One of the most common problems that we get called to repair is an air conditioning system that isn’t producing enough cooling. If this is happening at your house it could be caused by a clogged air filter, broken compressor, frozen coils, low refrigerant and several other problems.
  • No cooling – If your air conditioning system is blowing warm air or if it won’t even turn on at all, it could mean that the system is unplugged. But it could also be that your thermostats aren’t working well and are failing to turn on your system. It might be that your air filter is so clogged that no air is able to get into the system.
  • Unusual noises – You should definitely pay attention if your air conditioning system starts to make any new or unusual noises. Hissing is often a sign that you have refrigerant leak somewhere—possibly in your compressor. Squealing is a sign that your fan belt needs replacement and gurgling is often a sign that you have low refrigerant.
  • Leaking water – Another common issue is an air conditioner that is leaking water. I your air conditioning leaks water it almost always means that you have a clog in your condensate drain. As your AC operates condensation will start to form on the evaporator coils—similar to how water form on the outside of a cold glass on a hot day. This condensation usually drains away but if the drain gets clogged with dust or bacteria it can overflow.

Call the Tacoma air conditioning repair technicians at Sound Heating if you need to schedule repair service for your air conditioning system.

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How A Maintenance Program Can Prevent The Need For Air Conditioning Repairs

July 18th, 2013

When it comes to air conditioning in your home you probably want your system to work efficiently and consistently. It can be frustrating when your AC breaks down frequently or when it starts to use more energy than it used to. So how can homeowners make sure that they get the best performance possible form their AC systems? Getting regular maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your AC working well and we wanted to put together some of the potential benefits to getting regular air conditioning maintenance. Call the Tacoma air conditioning technicians at Sound Heating if you are in need of any cooling repair or maintenance service.

Benefits of Regular Air Conditioning Maintenance

As your air conditioning system operates it will develop small problems and issues. During regular maintenance visits, our technicians will look for those small problems and fix them before they can turn into larger, more costly repairs. Here are a few of the benefits that this can have for your air conditioner.

  • Reduced repair – One of the most attractive potential benefits is that regular maintenance could reduce the need for Tacoma air conditioning repair. By fixing problems before they actually can turn into major repairs, you could prevent them from causing you any problems.
  • Increased efficiency – Another awesome benefit of regular maintenance is that it could increase the efficiency of your AC system. Any small problems that your air conditioner has will likely make it work harder to cool your home which reduces its efficiency. By removing those problems on a regular basis, you could be able to return some of the efficiency to your home.
  • Extended equipment life – When your air conditioner has a lot of small problems it can cause the equipment to fail permanently. By regularly removing small problems you could be able to extend the life of your air conditioner and delay replacement services for as long as possible.

If you’re interested in potentially avoiding Tacoma air conditioning repair services then getting regular maintenance for your system is a great idea. The friendly experts at Sound Heating have years of experience working with all different kinds of systems. Give us a call today to talk with one of our friendly technicians.

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Common Air Conditioning Repairs During the Summer

July 10th, 2013

Are you cool, crisp, and comfortable in your Tacoma home? You should not settle for anything less than comfort and convenience in your home. During the long hot summer, you need to make sure that your air conditioning system works well at all times. However, even with pro installation and routine maintenance, there may come a time when your air conditioning system needs professional services to address its problems. Don’t fret. Like any other mechanical system, your HVAC system is susceptible to problems, and due to its complexity, your repair needs should be carried out by a professional Tacoma air conditioning technician. Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today for comprehensive AC services, and we’ll restore your cooling.

  • Frozen evaporator coils. Your indoor evaporator coils are responsible for circulating the cold, liquid refrigerant that cools your air. As a vital component, any issues with its operation need to be addressed immediately. If you notice that your coils have frozen over, it means that your system is working harder than it should to keep you cool, although you may have already noticed a severe decline in cooling. Most likely, there is some type of airflow issue that is allowing cool air to build up inside your indoor air handler. It could also be low refrigerant.
  • Bad capacitor. The capacitor functions like a battery. It stores energy to boost the startup of your AC so that it immediately responds to your adjustments and gets beyond the limitations of residential voltage capacities. If your AC doesn’t turn on when you ask it to, or turns on only intermittently, then you may have a bad capacitor in need of professional repair or replacement.
  • Thermostat fault. Although small, your thermostat is vital to the operation of your air conditioning system. It is your primary user interface, and today’s thermostats can also be programmed to operate around a work or vacation schedule. But if something goes wrong with your thermostat, you may find that your AC doesn’t function as it should, or perhaps not at all.

If you think you might be in need of professional air conditioning repair services in Tacoma,WA, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today.

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Happy 4th of July!

July 2nd, 2013

There are few things more “American” than baseball, apple pie and Independence Day. On this day over 200 years ago the second Continental Congress voted to approve the Declaration of Independence. The document, which was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, was a written explanation of why America wanted to be free from Great Britain. This bold move by the American colonies would start the Revolutionary War where many brave women and men would give their lives for the freedom that we now hold dear.

Over the years, our celebration of Independence Day has remained largely unchanged. John Adams, the 2nd president of the United States, said this about celebrating Independence Day: “It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” We all remember going to family barbecues, watching fireworks, attending parades, picnics and fairs, building bonfires, and playing baseball.

However you celebrate this 4th of July, make sure that you take a moment to remember why we’re celebrating.

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How Dirt and Dust Can Lead to Air Conditioning Repair Service

June 26th, 2013

Is your AC clean? Are you comfortable in your home during the summer? Grime, dirt, dust, and other debris can have a significant impact on the effectiveness and efficiency of your cooling during the summer months. While professional installation can go a long way towards ensuring that your AC provides comfort for you and your family for the years to come, it’s simply not enough to instill confidence about its reliability and performance. By following up your installation with routine preventive maintenance, you can make sure that your AC does not suffer from unnecessary air conditioning repairs and premature replacement costs. Call the Tacoma air conditioning repair techs at Sound Heating today for comprehensive repair services throughout the Greater Puget Sound area.

Let’s look in more detail at some problems that develop as a result of dirt, dust, and other debris.

  • Frozen evaporator coil. Frozen coils are one of the most common issues affecting air conditioners in the summer months. There are several reasons why it can happen in your home, including low refrigerant. But one of the most common reasons is related to a clogged air filter as a result of excessive dirt. When debris builds up on your air filter, it not only no longer performs its function, but also blocks the flow of cool air, which can then buildup inside your air handler.
  • Dirty condenser coils. Your condenser coils are subject to increased levels of debris because of their outdoor location. However, they need to be kept clean in order to function properly.  They play an important role in dissipating the thermal energy drawn from your indoor air into the outside air. But they simply will not be effective if they are caked with debris.
  • Blower motor fault. Dirt and dust are bad for motors. They create friction and reduce the effectiveness of moving parts that often require lubrication to operate. If dirt and debris get inside your blower motor components, then it could shut down, which means that your system cannot operate.

Make sure you take care of any dirt and dust that build up on your air conditioning system. Call Sound Heating today for excellent air conditioning repair services in Tacoma, WA.

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Causes of Inadequate Cooling

June 19th, 2013

During the hottest days of summer, a subpar performance from your air conditioning system can be a serious problem. There are a lot of reasons why your air conditioner may come up short in the cooling department. While you should never attempt to repair any problems with your air conditioning system on your own, understanding a little more about the causes of inadequate cooling can help you avoid making mistakes that can reduce the comfort level in your home. Here are a few examples of reasons that your air conditioning system may fail to provide you with the exceptional service you deserve. Contact the Tacoma air conditioning repair technicians at Sound Heating for more details.

One very common cause of inadequate cooling from air conditioning systems is a very dirty air filter. This is a perfect example of a problem that you yourself can resolve and avoid in order to allow your air conditioning system to operate with the great efficiency and effectiveness you want. As your air conditioner operates and air circulates throughout the system, the airborne pollutants in that air are filtered out on the air filter within your AC. If too much dirt and debris is allowed to build up on this air filter it can create too much airflow resistance in the system. This can lead to frozen coils, excessive wear and tear as well as many other operational issues.

Another reason that your air conditioning system may not be performing properly is due to an improper refrigerant charge. If you hope to get a great performance from your AC it is necessary that it has the right amount of refrigerant in it. If your refrigerant is low, it likely means that there is a leak in your system. You air conditioner does not consume refrigerant, but rather recycles it again and again. If your refrigerant is leaking or if some has escaped during service, we can recharge it to proper levels.

To learn more about some common causes of inadequate cooling, contact the Tacoma air conditioning repair pros at Sound Heating. We’ll answer any questions that you may have to help you get a better cooling performance in your home. Schedule service today.

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Getting the Right Air Conditioning Replacement

June 14th, 2013

Are you tired of paying for frequent air conditioning repairs? Is your system old and outdated? While you may be tempted to repair your air conditioner again, it’s probably a good idea to consider professional air conditioning replacement. Today’s air conditioners are highly energy efficient and offer performance values that exceed those built over a decade ago. But it’s not only important to get quality equipment. While the SEER rating and projected cooling output looks good on paper, you need professional installation if you want your new AC to work well for years to come. In today’s post, we’d like to discuss what getting the right Bellevue, WA air conditioning replacement means for you.

While all homes are inevitably different, there are some general things to keep in mind when pursuing satisfactory air conditioning replacement.

  • Sizing. To be effective, your new AC needs to be the right size for your home. If necessary, your HVAC technician will perform a load calculation during the installation process to make sure that your new AC matches your home. The BTU output and tonnage need to match the volume of air in your living space. While this is only an estimate, and there is some leeway on either side of the estimate, it’s important to get right the first time. If your new AC is too small, then it may overwork itself unnecessarily; if it’s too large, then it may short-cycle frequently.
  • Quality. There is no lack of equipment on the air conditioning market. When you’re selecting a new air conditioning system to replace your old one, you need to make sure that it’s of high quality. York air conditioners offer unparalleled performance and energy efficiency. York heating and cooling systems are world-renowned for their reliability, and their residential models are no exception. If you want to get your air conditioning replacement right, then look for a quality brand name like York.

The most important aspect of your new air conditioning replacement system, however, is the quality of the installer. Make sure that you hire a reputable Bellevue, WA air conditioning contractor who has high standards of excellence. Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today for excellent air conditioning services in Bellevue, WA.

 

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Heating: Room Temperature Does Not Match Thermostat Setting

May 6th, 2013

Most of your heating and air conditioning system components are tucked away out of view, and you have little interaction with them. Your thermostat, however, is one of the most important parts of your HVAC system, and by far the component that you have the most face time with. When you are unable to operate your thermostat successfully, it can be quite frustrating. The Bellevue, WA heating professionals at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning know that you depend on your thermostat year round to accurately control temperatures in your home. Here are a few reasons why the temperature in your home may not match that of your thermostat setting.

If your thermostat is not able to accurately read the temperature in your home, it will not be able to regulate it properly either. It is possible that your thermostat is dirty inside, which can affect its reading of the temperature. Remove the cover on your thermostat, and use a soft brush to gently remove and dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated therein.

It is also possible that some corrosion has taken place within your thermostat. If this is the case, the electrical contacts in the thermostat may not be operating properly. By using an electronic contact cleaner you can resolve this problem in some cases. If the thermostat is outdated anyway, though, you may just want to consider replacing it.

The installation of your thermostat is very important in determining the success of its operation. If your thermostat is too close to the ground, or is located close to windows or in direct sunlight, it may not operate properly. Make sure that your thermostat is in an area that is actually indicative of the true temperature in the room. For more tips on using your thermostat properly, give us a call.

At Sound Heating, our Bellevue WA heating technicians have the answers to any thermostat questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more. Get the best performance possible from your air conditioning and heating equipment by communicating with it successfully. A great thermostat is integral to achieving that goal.

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Heating Tip: What are the Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump

April 30th, 2013

Homeowners throughout the Auburn, WA area are always looking for ways to improve their energy efficiency. As we transition into a different season of the year that presents its own challenges to our indoor comfort, you may be in the market to replace your current heating system. While furnaces, boilers, and radiant heating all have their advantages, the heat pump remains one of the most comprehensive home comfort options available. Whatever type of system you choose, however, remember that the most important part of the process is its installation, which should be carried out by a certified technician. Speak to an Auburn WA heating professional at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about your options.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of installing a heat pump in your home:

  • Versatility. Most heating systems are only able to work during part of the year to keep your home comfortable. What makes the heat pump special is its versatility. It has an indoor and outdoor unit, and works a lot like an air conditioner. It harnesses the thermal energy of the outdoor air, even in low temperatures, to heat your home. But it can also cool your home during the summer by reversing the flow of coolant. This makes it into a comprehensive, year-round option for ensuring that your home is comfortable no matter what the outside temperature is.
  • Energy efficiency. While furnaces and boilers can use natural gas to heat your home, a heat pump uses electrical energy, making it one of the most energy efficient types of heating available today. For example, the York Affinity™ YZH is up to 60% more energy efficient thanks to its two-stage compressor technology.
  • Ground-source capability. A ground-source heat pump, also known as a geothermal system, uses the moderate temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home. An underground piping system is installed in a loop beneath the ground near your home, and a refrigerant circulates through it, transferring the cold air out of your home, and sending heated air throughout the ductwork.

For more information about heat pumps and how they might improve your home, call the Auburn, WA heating experts at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning. Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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Air Conditioning: How To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For Summer

April 23rd, 2013

As the temperature slowly begins to rise in Tacoma, WA, it’s finally starting to feel like spring, and fairly soon we’ll be well into the cooling season. Now is a great time to ensure that your AC works well. If you haven’t already fired it up, then make sure you do before too long. Discovering any issues early can prevent headaches later on. Our customers often want to know how they should prepare their AC systems for the upcoming summer. While there are various types of cooling systems on the market, there are some general actions to take if you want to maximize your AC’s performance this year. For more information, or to schedule excellent Tacoma, WA air conditioning services, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

  • Enroll in a preventive maintenance program. Prevention is the key to lasting performance. If you want to ensure that your air conditioner can thrive during even the hottest temperatures, make sure you enroll in a maintenance program, if you haven’t already. There’s no substitute for professional care. With professional inspection, cleaning, and tune-ups, your AC will be in good hands for the years to come.
  • Change your air filter on a regular basis. We can’t emphasize this simple task enough. Far too many air conditioning systems have been ruined as a result of neglecting this key duty. By regularly changing your air filter, you are making sure that your system components are fully protected against particles of air that enter your home. Also, when an air filter becomes clogged or dirty, it can begin to impede airflow, which can reduce the performance and energy efficiency of your system, and may even cause system damage.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. This cost-effective upgrade can help you save on your energy bill during the cooling season. It will also give you a way to schedule temperature changes that match your work schedule, so that you can save energy without sacrificing your comfort.

These are just a few of the things you can do to get prepared for the cooling season this summer. For more information, or to schedule exceptional Tacoma air conditioning services, call the experts at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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