Author: Lisa Savich

Welcome to summer in Northeast Ohio! Now that the temperatures are rising, your air conditioner will be working hard to keep your home comfortable. But just like any machine, your A/C needs ongoing care to operate efficiently and reliably throughout the season.

While your spring prep sets the foundation, consistent attention during the summer months is key. Here’s how to keep your A/C in top shape:

• Regular Air Filter Changes: We can’t stress this enough! During the peak cooling season, your air conditioner is running more frequently, and your air filter will accumulate dust and debris much faster. Stick to a regular filter replacement schedule (typically every 1-3 months) to maintain optimal airflow, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to stay on track.
• Keep Vents Clear: Ensure that your indoor air vents are not blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. Obstructed vents restrict airflow and force your system to work harder to cool your home.
• Utilize Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air and make you feel more comfortable, allowing you to potentially raise your thermostat a few degrees and save energy. Remember that ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the space.
• Smart Thermostat Management: If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, use it to your advantage. Set a slightly higher temperature when you’re away from home and program it to cool down before you return. This can significantly reduce your energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.
• Minimize Heat Gain: During the hottest parts of the day, try to minimize heat entering your home. Close curtains and blinds on sunny windows to block out direct sunlight. Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens and clothes dryers during peak hours.
• Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any strange sounds coming from your indoor or outdoor A/C units. Rattling, buzzing, grinding, or whistling noises could indicate a potential problem. If you hear anything concerning, it’s best to turn off your system and call a professional HVAC technician for inspection. Ignoring unusual noises can lead to more significant and costly repairs down the line.
• Consider Professional Maintenance: Even with diligent homeowner care, it’s recommended to schedule professional A/C maintenance once a year, ideally in the spring before the heavy cooling season. A qualified technician can perform a thorough inspection, clean the coils, check refrigerant levels and identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

By following these simple summer A/C care tips, you can ensure your system runs efficiently, keeps your home comfortable and helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns during the hottest months.

If you have any questions, concerns or need service on your A/C – give Choice Aire a call or fill out the Request Service form below!

Stay cool and enjoy your summer!

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Summer in Northeast Ohio can get steamy! Don’t wait until the first heatwave to discover your air conditioner isn’t up to the task. Spring is the perfect time to give your A/C unit some TLC and ensure it runs efficiently and reliably all summer long. Think of it as a little preventative care to save you from discomfort and potentially costly repairs down the line.

So, when should you start thinking about your A/C? Now! As the weather begins to warm up in late spring, it’s the ideal window to tackle these essential maintenance tasks.

Here’s your simple spring A/C prep checklist:

• Clear the Area: Take a walk around your outdoor unit (the condenser). Remove any leaves, branches, weeds, or other debris that have accumulated around it over the fall and winter. Ensure there’s at least two feet of clear space around the unit for proper airflow. Restricted airflow can significantly reduce efficiency and even damage your system.
• Visual Inspection: Give your outdoor unit a good once-over. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as bent fins, loose wires, or rust. If you spot anything concerning, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician.
• Clean the Outdoor Unit Fins: Over time, dust, pollen, and dirt can build up on the condenser fins, hindering their ability to release heat. You can gently clean them using a soft brush or a garden hose with a low-pressure setting. Be careful not to bend the delicate fins.
• Check the Drain Line: Locate the condensate drain line, usually a PVC pipe near your indoor unit. Make sure it’s not clogged. If you notice any blockage or standing water, you can try to carefully clear it with a wet/dry vacuum. A clogged drain line can lead to water leaks and potential water damage.
• Replace the Air Filter: This is arguably the most crucial step! A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. It can also impact your indoor air quality. Replace your air filter with a clean one. Depending on your household and the type of filter, you should aim to do this every 1-3 months, and definitely before the start of the cooling season.
• Test Your System: Once you’ve completed these steps, turn on your air conditioner for a test run on a moderately warm day. Listen for any unusual noises and ensure the air coming from the vents is cool. If you notice anything amiss, don’t hesitate to call Choice Aire for a professional inspection.

Taking a little time this spring to care for your A/C can make a big difference in your comfort and energy bills throughout the summer.

If you have any questions, concerns or need service on your A/C – give Choice Aire a call or fill out the Request Service form below!

Stay cool, Northeast Ohio!

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Gas Furnace vs. Heat Pump: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right heating system for your home is a big decision. Two popular options are gas furnaces and heat pumps, each with its own set of pros and cons. This blog post will break down the key differences between these two systems to help you make an informed choice.

How They Work

• Gas Furnace: A gas furnace burns natural gas to generate heat. The heat is then distributed throughout your home via ductwork.
• Heat Pump: A heat pump doesn’t generate heat; instead, it moves heat from one place to another. In the winter, it extracts heat from the outside air (yes, even cold air has some heat!) and transfers it inside. In the summer, it reverses the process, removing heat from inside and transferring it outside, acting as an air conditioner.

Energy Efficiency

• Gas Furnace: The efficiency of a gas furnace is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace.
• Heat Pump: Heat pumps are generally more energy-efficient than gas furnaces, especially in milder climates. They can move more heat per unit of energy than a furnace can generate. However, their efficiency can decrease in very cold temperatures.

Cost

• Gas Furnace: Gas furnaces typically have a lower upfront cost than heat pumps. However, gas prices can fluctuate, and you’ll need to factor in the cost of natural gas to run the furnace.
• Heat Pump: Heat pumps have a higher upfront cost, but they can save you money on energy bills in the long run, especially if you live in a moderate climate.

Climate Suitability

• Gas Furnace: Gas furnaces are a reliable choice for colder climates where temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
• Heat Pump: Heat pumps are ideal for milder climates with moderate winters. They can also work well in colder climates when paired with a backup heating system, such as a gas furnace or electric resistance heat.

Environmental Impact

• Gas Furnace: Gas furnaces burn fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Heat Pump: Heat pumps are more environmentally friendly than gas furnaces as they use electricity to move heat rather than burning fossil fuels.

Other Factors

• Lifespan: Gas furnaces typically have a longer lifespan than heat pumps, lasting around 15-20 years compared to 10-15 years for heat pumps.
• Maintenance: Both systems require regular maintenance, including air filter changes and annual inspections by a qualified technician.
• Installation: Installing a gas furnace requires gas lines and ventilation, while installing a heat pump requires electrical wiring and may involve some ductwork modifications.

Which is Right for You?

The best heating system for your home depends on several factors, including your climate, budget, and energy efficiency goals.

Choose a gas furnace if:

• You live in a cold climate with frequent freezing temperatures.
• You’re looking for a lower upfront cost.
• You prioritize a longer lifespan for your heating system.

Choose a heat pump if:

• You live in a mild climate with moderate winters.
• You’re looking for a more energy-efficient option.
• You’re concerned about the environmental impact of your heating system.

Ultimately, the best way to decide between a gas furnace and a heat pump is to consult with a qualified HVAC technician. They can assess your home’s specific needs and recommend the best system for your situation.

If you have any questions or need assistance, our team at Choice Aire is here to help.

Take the Quiz to Find Your Perfect HVAC System

Why is it so important to change your furnace filter?

Your furnace filter is like a guardian, protecting your home’s air quality. It traps dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your living space. A clean filter ensures that the air you breathe is healthier, but a dirty one can lead to a variety of problems.

What happens when you neglect to change your furnace filter?

• Reduced airflow: As the filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow, forcing your furnace or A/C to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to higher energy bills and decreased efficiency.
• Poor indoor air quality: A dirty filter allows pollutants to circulate throughout your home, potentially causing respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.
• Damage to your system: When your furnace has to work harder due to a clogged filter, it puts stress on the components in the furnace and parts of the A/C system. This can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

How often should you change your furnace filter?

The ideal frequency for changing your furnace filter depends on several factors, including:

• The type of filter: Pleated filters typically need to be replaced every 30-60 days, while HEPA filters may last longer.
• The number of people and pets in your home: More occupants can increase the amount of dust and allergens in the air.
• The air quality in your area: If you live in an area with high levels of pollution, you may need to change your filter more often.

Tips for changing your furnace filter:

• Turn off your furnace: Before replacing the filter, ensure that the furnace is turned off and the power is disconnected.
• Locate the filter: The filter is usually located in a cabinet or access panel near the furnace.
• Remove the old filter: Carefully remove the old filter and dispose of it properly.
• Inspect the furnace: While the filter is out, take a moment to inspect the furnace for any signs of damage or wear.
• Install the new filter: Insert the new filter into the housing, ensuring it fits securely. Most filters have an arrow pointed in the direction of which the air flows. This arrow typically is pointed towards the furnace.
• Turn on the furnace: Once the new filter is in place, you can turn on the furnace and resume normal operation.

By regularly changing your furnace filter, you can improve your home’s air quality, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of your furnace. So, make it a part of your regular maintenance routine and breathe easier knowing that your home is a healthier environment.

If you have any questions or need assistance, our team at Choice Aire is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.

Your furnace is a vital component of your home’s mechanical systems, providing warmth and comfort during the colder months. To ensure that it operates efficiently and reliably, regular maintenance is crucial. Neglecting to maintain your furnace can lead to a variety of problems, including:

• Reduced efficiency: Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in your furnace, hindering its ability to heat your home effectively. This can result in higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on the unit.
• Safety hazards: A poorly maintained furnace can pose a safety risk, especially if it overheats. Regular inspections can help identify and address potential problems before they become serious.
• Unexpected breakdowns: Furnaces that are not properly maintained are more prone to breakdowns, which can leave you without heat during the coldest months of the year.

What does regular furnace maintenance by Choice Aire involve?

• Cleaning: A professional technician will clean the integral furnace components as specified by the manufacturer. This will remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can reduce efficiency and cause problems.
• Inspection: The technician will inspect the furnace for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. They will also check the thermostat, safety controls, and gas connections to ensure that they are functioning properly.
• Tune-up: A tune-up includes adjusting the air-fuel mixture, checking the ignition system, and calibrating the thermostat. This will help optimize the furnace’s performance and efficiency.

How often should you have Choice Aire service your furnace?

It’s generally recommended to have your furnace serviced once a year, ideally before the heating season begins. However, the specific frequency may vary depending on the age of your furnace, its usage, and the air quality in your area.

Benefits of regular furnace maintenance from Choice Aire:

• Improved efficiency: A well-maintained furnace will operate more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
• Longer lifespan: Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your furnace, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
• Enhanced safety: A properly maintained furnace is less likely to develop safety hazards, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that your furnace is in good working order can provide you with peace of mind during the colder months.

By investing in regular furnace maintenance, you can ensure that your home remains warm and comfortable throughout the heating season. If you have any questions or concerns about your furnace, consult with our qualified HVAC technicians at Choice Aire.