Sound Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Air Conditioning’

No Cool Air Coming from Your Air Conditioner

Friday, July 11th, 2014

On a hot day in Tacoma, you shouldn’t be stuck with an air conditioner that only blows warm air into your home. While there may be many reasons why your air conditioner fails to blow cool air, some of which are detailed below, a qualified technician can usually identify the issue and offer the repairs you need.

Thermostat Issues

The first place you should always look when your AC is not blowing cool air is the thermostat. Check to make sure the AC is turned on and try lowering the temperature a couple of degrees. There may be a calibration issue, or a sensor may not be able to accurately detect the temperature in your home.

Low Refrigerant

A constant level of refrigerant cycling throughout your system is necessary to keep your home cool. As the refrigerant changes from liquid to gas form, it absorbs the heat from your home, and as it condenses, it dissipates heat outdoors. The refrigerant itself is never supposed to leave your system; if you have low refrigerant levels, it is likely due to a leak somewhere in the refrigerant lines. Only AC technicians are qualified to handle and replace refrigerant, so you should always contact an air conditioning repair service if a leak causes your system to stop cooling.

Frozen or Dirty Coils

The indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor condenser coil are both vital to the refrigeration cycle. The condenser coil is where refrigerant changes from gas to liquid form, giving off heat to the outside air in the process. The evaporator coil is where refrigerant evaporates into a gas, absorbing the heat from the air inside your home. Over time, these coils may become dirty, which can interfere with the cooling capacity of your system. This is why it is necessary to schedule regular maintenance to check for issues such as a dirty coil. Blocked airflow can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which could prevent your system from blowing cool air.

Don’t suffer without a working AC any longer than you have to this summer. Call Sound Heating to set up AC service in Tacoma and get your air conditioning system back to normal.

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Is Your Air Conditioning System the Wrong Size?

Friday, August 9th, 2013

As we near the end of summer heat in Tacoma, it’s important to take notice of your air conditioner. How did it perform? Was it lacking in performance or energy efficiency? Were your energy bills higher than anticipated? It’s important to recognize the signs that something has gone wrong with your HVAC system. Unfortunately, one of the problems that you may encounter is improper installation. We’ve seen it more times than we’d like to admit. When it comes to the installation of your AC, make sure you take your time during the process and make certain that your AC is the correct size so that it adequately lives up to your cooling needs. Call Sound Heating if you believe that you’re in need of professional Tacoma air conditioning repair services, or if you believe that your system is improperly sized for your home.

During the installation of your AC, your technician needs to make sure that he takes an accurate load calculation, which is a fancy term for how much cooling power you need to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient. It’s an important stage in the process. If your system is too small, then it will likely be inadequate to the task of cooling your entire home. It will strain during high temperatures and may have to work harder all the time just to get by, which can lead to higher energy costs. Alternatively, if your AC is too large, that can also lead to problems. It may short-cycle frequently, which can lead to increased energy costs and additional system wear and tear.

There are some signs that your AC is the wrong size. For example, if you notice that your energy bill has spiked from one month to the next, it could be an indication that your system is working too hard. If your system never shuts off, it could be too small to be able to handle the load. If it constantly turns on and off, it could be too large. Remember, bigger is not always better when it comes to your air conditioner.

Call Sound Heating today for professional air conditioning repair service in Tacoma.

 

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What is Refrigerant and How Does It Work?

Tuesday, July 30th, 2013

There are numerous types of refrigerant uses in a wide variety of residential and commercial applications. From natural refrigerants like ammonia and water to the latest in ozone-friendly R-410A, which is the current standard amongst air conditioning manufacturers, there are various kinds for various applications. But what is refrigerant and how does it work? The standard refrigerant has been widely tested for flammability and toxicity, and today’s refrigerants have only a minimal impact on the environment, while still remaining effective and efficient as a chemical that absorbs thermal energy at low temperatures and dissipates thermal energy at high temperatures. It’s important to know how refrigerant works because the more your know the better chance you will have at recognizing any problems. Call Sound Heating if you would like more information about the refrigerant that circulates through your coils or if you would like to schedule air conditioning services in Puyallup.

Let’s begin with the compressor. As the engine of the refrigerant cycle, it takes the low pressure, low temperature gas from the indoor evaporator coil and turns it into a high pressure, high temperature gas, one that is substantially higher than the outside temperature. It then travels to the condenser coils to be dissipated into the outside air with the help of an exhaust fan. It has now been condensed (hence the name), but it is not yet cool enough. It flows into an expansion valve where it cools rapidly and now can be used as a material for cooling. The evaporator coil circulates this cold, liquid refrigerant and the thermal interaction that occurs between the refrigerant and the warm indoor air causes the refrigerant to turn into a gas. Hence the cycle continues.

For a long time, R-22 (also known as Freon) was the standard in the HVAC industry, but it has since been exposed as a potential environmental hazard, and is now being phased out of production. Because today’s refrigerants are not able to be retrofitted into systems designed to handle this older standard, it’s important to recognize how this phase-out could affect you.

Call Sound Heating today for professional air conditioning services in Puyallup, OR.

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How Dirt and Dust Can Lead to Air Conditioning Repair Service

Wednesday, 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

Wednesday, 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

Friday, 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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Air Conditioning: How To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For Summer

Tuesday, 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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Air Conditioning Tip: When to Schedule Spring Maintenance for Your AC System?

Monday, March 11th, 2013

At Sound Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer comprehensive air conditioning maintenance service in Tacoma, WA. One of the main services we offer is an annual tune-up for your air conditioner or heat pump. It is a good idea to schedule this service in the spring, before the hot weather gets here and when you have to use your air conditioning system the most. This helps to ensure that any known issues are handled before your turn on your AC so that your system doesn’t break down in the middle of a heat wave.

During one of these routine tune-ups, here are some of the basic tasks that our technicians will provide:

  • Clean condenser coil
  • Check and tighten electrical connections
  • Check for oil and refrigerant leaks
  • Test safety features and efficiency levels
  • Inspect blower belt
  • Inspect expansion valve and coil temperatures
  • Replace or clean air filter
  • Check refrigerant level and charge if necessary
  • Check condensate drain for clogs
  • Lubricate moving parts as needed

In addition to these basic tasks, we also give advice on how to properly operate your air conditioning system, including the thermostat. We can also show you how to do basic maintenance tasks and keep your system clean. We give customers who sign our service contract priority service under certain conditions, including your agreement to operate the AC system according to our instructions. It’s also important that you notify us as soon as you notice anything unusual about your air conditioner, whether it’s a strange noise or poor performance.

Another reason to schedule tune-ups in the spring is that it will help to ensure that your AC system is working at optimal efficiency levels. If not our Tacoma air conditioning specialists can give some tips or pinpoint areas of improvement, such as installing a programmable thermostat or insulating parts of your home.

Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning for your next Tacoma, WA air conditioning service and tune-up!

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Your AC and Your Energy Recovery Ventilator

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

As a Tacoma homeowner with an air conditioning system, you know that it costs plenty to keep your home cool and comfortable in the summer. It is an expense you are willing to pay for the comfort and overall health of your family, but if you are like most homeowners, you would do anything to lower your monthly electric bills where possible.

One way to make your air conditioning system a little more efficient is to install an energy recovery ventilator. Read on to learn what energy recovery ventilator is and how it works alongside your AC system to reduce energy loss and improve indoor comfort control.

What Is an energy recovery ventilator?

Not to be confused with a heat recovery ventilator, an energy recovery ventilator is a mechanical device that transfers heat and water vapor between the incoming (i.e. outside) air and outgoing air being moved by your ventilation system.

The main difference between an energy recovery ventilator and a heat recovery ventilator is that the former transfers both heat and moisture, while the latter transfers only heat.

What Does an energy recovery ventilator Do?

What does that transfer mean for your Tacoma air conditioning system? Well, in the hot summer months, your air conditioner pulls in warm air from the outside, cools it and then blasts it into your home, while exhausting warm air to the outside.

What an energy recovery ventilator does is make that process a little easier for the air conditioner to handle by transferring heat from the warm air coming in to the exhaust air that the AC is blowing out of the house. The incoming air therefore has to be cooled less, which means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard, which means less electricity is used.

Many users of energy recovery ventilator systems report that the moisture exchange also makes the air in their homes feel “fresher,” rather than the stale feel that air conditioning can sometimes produce.

So, if you would like to increase efficiency and reduce the cost of running your Tacoma AC system, consider an energy recovery ventilator as one possible solution. Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more!

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Heat Pump Tip: SEER vs. HSPF

Monday, August 20th, 2012

When it comes to Bellevue heat pumps, there are two different ratings you’ll often see – the SEER and the HSPF. So, what does each of them mean and which rating is more important when purchasing your new device? Here are a few things to consider:

 SEER

The acronym SEER is short for “seasonal energy efficiency rating” and is used most commonly to measure air conditioner efficiency or in this case, the cooling capacity of your heat pump.

 HSPF

The HSPF is short for “heating seasonal performance factor” and is a measurement of how efficient the heat pump is in producing heat during the cooler months of the year.

 The Difference Between the Two

Every heat pump will have both of these ratings, allowing you to see how efficient each is. This is important because you need to know for certain how well your heat pump will perform under certain situations – both in the winter and summer.

However, if you live in a colder climate where the summer rarely calls for air conditioner, your focus should be on the HSPF first. And if you live in a warmer climate where your heating needs are minimal, the SEER is most important. Another thing to consider is your supplemental heat. If the cost of your supplemental heating system is high, you’ll want an HSPF that is as low as possible to balance it out.

 Choosing an Efficient Heat Pump

Heat pump efficiency directly impacts the price of the device you purchase but is almost always worth the difference. The key is to find a device that provides what you need based on where you live. Keep in mind as well that, like most HVAC upgrades, you won’t immediately recoup the cost of the device in your energy savings, so if you plan on moving soon, you should purchase a more affordable device now and upgrade later.

Purchasing a new heat pump for your Bellevue home is an important step in making it more energy efficient. If you are unsure which rating you need or how to analyze their meanings, contact a professional to learn more.

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