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Factors That Affect Your HVAC Lifespan In Extreme Heat

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Anyone that lives in a part of the country that is routinely hot throughout the year will know how important it is to have a quality HVAC system. Without a quality HVAC system in hot and dry climates, it can be difficult to keep your home at a comfortable and safe temperature. When you are going to invest in a HVAC system for your home, you will want it to last as long as possible. There are various factors that can affect the life of your home’s HVAC system if you are in an extremely hot area of the country.

How Frequently it is Used

One of the most common factors that will influence the lifespan of your HVAC system is how frequently it is used. Even if you live in a part of the country that gets hot during the day, there could be times during the year when it is fine to turn it off at night or during periods during the winter months. The more the HVAC system is running, the more strain it will put on the system and the sooner it will need major repairs or replacements. Due to this, finding times to turn the system off and give it a break can help to extend the total life of your HVAC.

Filter Replacement

There are various forms of ongoing maintenance and care that you need to take care of on your own when it comes to your HVAC system. One of the most important is whether you replace the filters of your HVAC system on time. Your HVAC filters are very important as they help to keep dirt and debris from getting into your ducts and HVAC system. They ultimately can help improve air quality and prevent various forms of damage.

However, if you do not replace them on time, the filters will clog and can make it harder for cool air to pass through. Further, they can become less effective. If you do not replace your filters when needed, it would put additional strain on your HVAC system and could shorten the potential lifespan.

Keep System Clean

If you want your HVAC system to last for a long time, you also need to focus on keeping it clean. Nothing can affect the quality, reliability, and lifespan like being diligent about keeping your system properly clean out. If your air conditioner is located in a place that has a lot of dirt and leaves, keeping the area as clear as possible will go a long way. Further, you can also keep it clean by spraying it off with a hose at least once per month. On the inside of your home, having the air ducts cleaned on occasion will also provide benefits and can extend the life of your system.

Lack of Professional Maintenance

Another factor that can affect the lifespan of your HVAC system is whether you have professional maintenance completed on time or not. While it is important to keep your HVAC system properly maintained at home, you still need to call in a professional on occasion. Ideally, you should have your air conditioner serviced at least once per year. During the annual tune-up, it will be professionally cleaned, fully inspected, and repaired when necessary. This can help you avoid more serious repair needs in the future and can ensure you are able to continue to enjoy using it. For those that are in the Phoenix area, One Stop Heating and Cooling offers a variety of HVAC maintenance and repair services that can keep your system running well.

System Quality

Whenever you are purchasing any type of appliance for your home, you will want it to be made by a reputable manufacturer. While there can be a larger upfront purchase, investing in one that is made with quality parts and by a manufacturer that you can trust could be well worth the investment. Further, many of these companies offer warranty programs that will ensure you are covered if a part breaks down and needs to be replaced during the warranty period window.

Along with choosing a system from the right manufacturer, it is also important to pick one that is the right size. If you purchase one that is too big or too small for your home and needs, it can add stress to the HVAC system. Working with a reputable HVAC contractor can help ensure you select the right system for your home.

Having a reliable HVAC system is extremely important for anyone in the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale area. To keep your system running well, hiring an experienced HVAC company is a great option. The team with One Stop Heating and Cooling can provide you with a variety of services including consultation, maintenance and repair, and installation services to help ensure you are able to keep your home at a safe and comfortable temperature throughout the warm summer months of the year.

How To Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

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Everyone wants the air quality in their home to be the best it can possibly be. This may be difficult for you if you suffer from allergies. But, your home should be comfortable and the place you cannot wait to go. So, you want to ensure that you have the best quality air to avoid allergy and asthma symptoms. You may need to take some of these steps to make sure you have the best quality air in your house for the best possible breathing.

Step #1 – Clean Your Floors

You want to use a vacuum clear with a high amount of suction, a HEPA filter, and a rotating brush. The HEPA filter prevents the dirt and dust from blowing back into the exhaust. It also helps to reduce the toxins and allergens in your house. It would be best if you vacuumed the same spot repeatedly in high traffic areas. Be sure not to forget upholstered furniture, the edges of the carpet, and the walls. Dust can accumulate in these areas. You want to vacuum two times per week and wash the filter on a regular basis.

After you vacuum, you should mop to capture the dust that is left behind after vacuuming. All you need is plain water to capture the allergens. You can use a dust cloth or microfiber mop without any type of cleaning solution.

There are some other considerations you can make to keep your floors clean. You can place a floor mat at every door. There are a large amount of dirt, chemicals, and toxins that are carried in on your shoes. Mats at the door reduce the number of pollutants, dirt, and pesticides that are tracked into your home. It is also a good idea to have everyone entering your home to remove their outside shoes upon entering. Finally, you can keep socks, house shoes, and slippers by the door for guests.

Step #2 – Maintain Healthy Humidity

It would be best if you kept the humidity in your home around 30 to 50 percent to control mold and dust mites in your home. A dehumidifier and air conditioning reduce moisture in the air, which helps to control the allergens in your home. In addition, it can help to reduce the pollen count inside your home, which is especially helpful for those that suffer from allergies.

Additional ways to pull the humidity out of the air include using an exhaust fan or keep a window cracked while bathing, cooking, or running the dishwasher. You want to make sure you do not overwater your plants. You want to vent your dryer outside. If you have any plumbing that is leaking, you should have it fixed to prevent mold from growing.

Step #3 – Have a Professional Install an Air Purification

An air purification system is a great way to clean your indoor air and keep it free from pollen and dust. This option is more expensive than some other options, but it is effective and requires minor maintenance. In addition, it can help eliminate the toxins in the air that can make you sick. This includes smoke, pollen, bacteria, and mold. You should contact One Stop Heating and Cooling to have a professional technician install an air purification system in your home.

Step #4 – Radon Test Your Home

It does not matter if your home is old or new; you may have a problem with radon. Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that can increase the risk of lung cancer. When someone in your home smokes or if you have high levels of radon in your home, it increases your risk of cancer.

Radon is also radioactive, and it comes from the natural decay of uranium found in soil. It can move through the ground into your house through the holes and cracks in your foundation. It does not matter if your home is drafty or airtight without or with a basement can have a problem with radon. Testing for radon is affordable, easy, and fast. If you discover radon in your house, it is easy to reduce the level of radon in your home.

Step #5 – Create a No-Smoking Rule in Your House

One of the largest contributors to pollution in the home is cigarette smoke. As a result, you should demand that there is no smoking in your home. The smoke from cigarettes has more than 4,000 chemicals in them. Secondhand smoke may also be the cause of illnesses or disorders in children. These illnesses include respiratory infections, ear infections, cancer, sudden infant death syndrome, and asthma. In addition, smoking can cause breathing problems, stroke, heart attack, and cancer.

If you are considering improving the air quality in your home, you should start with the steps contained in this article. Most of them are simple to put in place and affordable.

Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist

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Spring is finally here—and for many, that means it’s time for a little spring cleaning around the house. This is a great time to do some much-needed decluttering, cleaning, organizing, and general home maintenance. Not sure where to start with your spring-cleaning routine? We’ve got some ideas for things you won’t want to overlook.

Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

Even though you’ve probably been using your AC year-round here in Phoenix, the reality is that your whole system could still use an inspection and tune-up before the hottest months of the year arrive. This will ensure that your HVAC system is in safe and efficient working order before it’s really put to the test.

Scheduling HVAC tune-ups at least twice a year (about once every six months) is the best way to stay on top of any small repairs that may need to be performed before they turn into major (and more expensive) ones. Likewise, a tune-up is a great way to optimize your system’s performance and efficiency so you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long while potentially cutting down on your energy bills in the process.

Don’t Forget About Duct Cleaning

When was the last time your home’s air ducts and vents were professionally cleaned? If it’s been a few years, or if you’ve never had this done, then now is a good time to schedule this important service. Over time, dust and other debris from your HVAC system can settle in your home’s ductwork. The debris then makes its way into the air you breathe, affecting your indoor air quality and polluting your HVAC system as well.

Scheduling an air duct cleaning is a great way to have this unwanted dust and debris removed from your home’s ducts effectively and professionally. Many people also find that their indoor air quality is improved after a professional duct cleaning—and that they can even go longer in between dusting. If anybody in your home suffers from asthma or allergies, this service can also remove irritants from your indoor air and relieve common respiratory symptoms.

Mind Your Landscaping

Yes, spring is a great time to beautify your yard for the upcoming summer months. However, taking care of your landscaping as part of your spring cleaning isn’t just about looks. Specifically, be sure to inspect the landscaping around your air conditioning system’s outdoor condenser unit. Be on the lookout for overgrown grass, bushes, or other plants that could be obstructing the system’s air flow.

By taking the time to trim back grasses or other landscaping around the condenser unit, you can prepare it for a summer of smooth operation. Otherwise, overgrown landscaping can block the condenser’s air flow, causing it to work harder than it should to cool your home. By keeping things trimmed and away from the condenser, you can keep your AC running smoothly and efficiently, which could help you cut down on energy costs and premature repairs.

Swap Out That Air Filter

In general, HVAC air filters should be changed at least once every 90 days. As part of your spring cleaning, then, you may want to consider swapping yours out. This is especially true if the last time you changed it was sometime around the holidays!

A clean air filter will be your best line of protection against unwanted dust, allergens, and other particles polluting your indoor air. Likewise, a clean filter helps your HVAC system run more smoothly and efficiently.

Can’t remember the last time you changed your filter? Many people find it helpful to write the date on the side of the filter with a marker. You might also consider setting a reminder on your phone to swap out your filter every three months.

Dust, Mop, and Declutter

A little dusting, mopping, and general decluttering also goes a long way when it comes to spring cleaning. Generally, it’s best to do any decluttering before you mop or dust, as doing so usually kicks up a fair amount of dust in itself. As you declutter your home, consider setting aside separate piles or boxes for things you want to donate, things you want to sell, and things that may be better off in the trash.

From there, mopping and dusting is a great way to get rid of any debris or pollutants that may have settled on your home’s hard surfaces. While it’s a good idea to dust and mop regularly, you might want to be a little more thorough with your spring cleaning. This may include moving furniture and other trinkets around to get those hard-to-reach areas.

In Need of HVAC Service?

Your home’s HVAC system will likely be working hard in the coming months, so make sure it’s ready to take on the challenge. Schedule your spring-cleaning tune-up and inspection with our team at One Stop Heating & Cooling today! You can reach us any time by calling (623) 688-6556. You can also stay on top of the latest news by following our blog.

Why Is My A/C Blowing Hot Air?

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As summer approaches, skyrocketing temperatures and hot, hot, heat are going to become the norm. If you live in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, now is the perfect time to make sure that your air conditioning system is working properly.  One of the biggest bummers to come with Arizona’s warmest season is the potential reality of a broken A/C unit!

Today, we are going to set our sights on one of the most common problems afflicting homeowners throughout Phoenix by figuring out why your AC is blowing hot air instead of cool air.

Condenser Unit Is Dirty

Did you know that one of the primary reasons for an A/C unit blowing warm air is due to a dirty condenser unit? The condenser unit for your air conditioning system should reside outside of your home, typically alongside the building itself. A sturdy square structure, condenser units can quickly become overwhelmed by debris from the outside world. Your condenser coil won’t operate correctly if it is covered in bushes, leaves, grass, or anything else of the sort.

Our Tip: Grab a broom and get sweeping. Spend some time cleaning around your condenser unit to make sure that overgrowth and debris are not a problem. If this fixes your hot air problem, then you are good to go with a minimal headache!

Thermostat Is Improperly Set

Sometimes the easiest solution is the correct solution. If you notice that your AC is suddenly blowing only hot air, the first thing you’ll need to do is address the settings of your thermostat system. Make sure that the system is set to cool instead of auto, this way you know you should be receiving cooled air.  While it is fine to run the vents in your home without the AC itself, you might set yourself up for temporary frustrations by forgetting about the setting change.

If you want to maximize your cooling potential while minimizing your energy expense, consider setting your thermostat to a temperature roughly 5 degrees below the room’s temperature on the thermostat.

Our Tip: Before workshopping the issue any further, check out the settings on your thermostat. Many individuals will forget that they set their fans to ‘auto’ or ‘fan only’. A simple flick of the switch should have your air conditioning unit blowing out cool air once again.

Leaking Air Ducts

Wouldn’t you know it, but a leaking air duct can cause your air conditioning system to struggle! Leaks in air ducts can lead directly to a flawed cooling system, leaving your home warm and your energy bill sky-high. When cool air leaks through the ducts, you have to run the AC longer to catch up with the thermostat, causing exploding energy bills.

If you live in an older home or believe that you are losing energy due to poor ducting, consider consulting a professional at One Stop Heating & Cooling. A family-owned business, One Stop Heating & Cooling can identify issues within your system so as to find a quick and affordable solution.

Our Tip: Monitor your energy expenses and watch for any jumps from month to month. A leaking HVAC system will present energy spikes in your monthly reports.

Freezing Air Conditioning Unit

Did you know that an air conditioner can freeze into a solid block of ice? The evaporator coil of an air conditioning unit is required to provide heat. When the evaporator coil freezes, typically from the AC falling consistently below 32 degrees, the entire system can go down.

Our Tip: If you want to avoid freezing your air conditioning unit and its compressor, consider keeping your thermostat set on auto at a temperature between 70 and 72 degrees. Allow the compressor to thaw if it is frozen before turning the unit back on. If this doesn’t correct your issue, consider contacting an HVAC technician.

Failed Compressor

The compressor in your HVAC system is used to collect refrigerant gas before crushing it to raise the temperature and pressure of your home. If your compressor is not functioning properly it can lead to electrical failure, refrigerant backflow, and even issues with overheating. Compressors are traditionally fairly sturdy though they do begin to fail within ten to twenty years.

Our Tip: If you believe your compressor has begun to fairly, consider contacting an HVAC team for a consultation. You’ll either need a new compressor or a more cost-efficient AC unit in its stead.

Contact One Stop Heating & Cooling!

One Stop Heating & Cooling is a family-owned and operated HAC company based out of Phoenix, TX. With a decorated roster of professional HVAC technicians backed by years of industry experience, One Stop Heating & Cooling is your destination for affordable, effective, and accessible HVAC services.

One Stop Heating & Cooling specializes in

  • Residential and Light Commercial Projects
  • Quality Workmanship
  • Expert Customer Service
  • Routine Maintenance Checks

Contact One Stop today to schedule your consultation!

Should I Turn the A/C Off When I Leave The House?

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There are several things to keep in mind when deciding whether to turn off your air conditioning when you leave your house. A good rule of thumb is, if you are going to be gone for a short time, it is best to leave it on, and if you are going to be gone a long time, it is best to turn it off.

What a long or short time is, can be subjective. If you are gone a whole day and turn your air conditioning off, it will make your unit work harder to cool the house down again. You may save a little on electricity, but lose a little on wear and tear. Being gone a whole week would be different, but even then you could set it at a very high level so it will not run much.

It is a good idea to raise the thermostat while you are not in the house if you are not going to turn it off. Air conditioners also remove humidity, and that could be a reason to leave it on. Generally, about 15 degrees less than the outside temperature is a good setting.  If it is 90 degrees outside, a setting of 75 should keep you comfortable.  If you are going to be gone a few days, you could set your thermostat at 90, or just turn it off until you return.

The professional staff at One Stop Heating & Air are always happy to answer your questions about air conditioning.

Importance of maintenance

An even more important question is how much maintenance your unit needs. Air conditioners are built to last a long time, and they will if they are maintained properly.

We have a maintenance plan that calls for service twice per year, as well as a maintenance plan for whenever you need it.  It is a good idea to have your unit inspected and repaired as needed twice a year. One Stop Heating & AIr offers plans to meet your needs, and we will come out and inspect a unit that is struggling to help get it to running better.

You may save some money by monitoring the temperature, and adjusting depending on whether you are there or not. You will save even more by keeping your system running at its best.

Looking for efficiency

If you have had your unit for a couple of decades, it may be time to replace it even if it is working. A more energy efficient system will operate better than one built 20-30 years ago. The latest technology gives you lower operating costs, and more control over the details of cooling your home. There are programmable units that will adjust to the temperature outside, and you won’t have to worry about turning them off anymore. .

Another aspect of efficiency is to have a unit that is the right size for the area you are trying to cool.  Air Conditioning units are built to cool a certain amount of space. Having one that fits that model will be more efficient, will work better and will last longer. A unit that is too small will have to work a lot harder, and will wear out sooner. A unit that is too big will also have issues.

Programmable thermostat

Many new systems have a programmable thermostat built in, but you can add one to an older system without a lot of difficulty. You can connect this to your smartphone, and always have the controls within easy reach.  Once you have it set the way you want, you may not need to touch it again, but the connection to a smartphone can be convenient.

With a programmable thermostat, you can set it to keep the temperature within 15 degrees of outside temperatures. You may also set it to adjust to when you come home, go to bed at night, or if you know ahead of time you will be gone for a few days. This is more energy efficient than trying to remember to change the thermostat manually.

Going ductless

Another option in the search for efficiency is a ductless system, where each room has its own unit. This can be more efficient because it can be adjusted for each space you want to cool. A bedroom not in use during the day, could be set higher than your living room, which is occupied all day. You may also control these units remotely with your phone, or program them to do what you need at specific times.

These units need professional installation as well as central units. Correct installation is part of the overall picture of having an energy-efficient air conditioning system that won’t break the bank.

Give us a call

Call One Stop Heating & Air for all your heating and air conditioning needs.  We also offer emergency services for when the unexpected happens. Keeping all your air conditioning equipment safe and efficient is our priority.

Have Pets? Here’s How To Maintain Your A/C

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We always have and always will love our pets, but that doesn’t mean we have to get used to the chores that they create!

Pet fur can become a real problem inside of homes inside of Arizona, particularly when it comes to the impact that it has on your air conditioning unit. HVAC machines may be big and bulky pieces of equipment, but they can be sidelined by even the smallest of airborne particulates. Whether you have a beautiful Maine Coone or a couple of rowdy dogs, the fur and airborne debris they leave behind may be wreaking havoc on your home.

Today, we are going to take a closer look at how you can prepare your HVAC system for a lifetime with pets. By enacting just a few of the following tips, you will get to enjoy a home that smells cleaner, feels fresher, and is equipped with a longer-lasting, healthier HVAC system.

Get Used to Changing Air Filters

Did you know that your HVAC system has a set of air filters that need to be regularly changed? It’s true! These filters act as a barrier to allow your HVAC system the ability to operate efficiently. By catching airborne pollutants and protecting your ducts from their appearance, your HVAC system can last longer while reducing potential airborne dangers.

Clogged filters can become a regular and recurring issue in homes throughout Arizona. Air will have trouble passing through these dirty filters, which will cause your system to work harder to produce the same conditioned air. As a result, components downstream in the system are impacted by complications that can cause a spike in energy use.

A standard HVAC filter will effectively capture insects, hair, and animal dander. You can discuss even better quality air filters for smaller particulates with a technician from One Stop Heating & Cooling. During your conversations with an HVAC technician, focus on upgrading to filters with higher MERV numbers. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filtration offered by the filter.

Clean Grilles and Vacuum Registers

Your HVAC system is a convoluted machine with many moving parts, though it is often the overlooked components that need help the most. Cleaning your HVAC registers and grilles may be left in the dust while you focus on potentially more important areas, but don’t forget to clean them eventually. The vents that process air into your living space can be filled with dust, hair, allergens, and other debris. Remove and wash your grilles and registers with soap and water before adequately drying everything. Once these components have been completely dried, they can be reinstalled for continued use.

Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance

A little bit of maintenance can go a long way toward preventing future issues. Most air conditioning technicians and HVAC manufacturers would suggest scheduling at least a yearly tune-up before spring to prepare your system. If you have pets, and most of us do, these tune-ups may be required on a more frequent basis. Pet hair and dander can break down your system by reducing its efficacy, raising energy costs, and reducing your comfort.

To avoid the natural degradation of your HVAC system due to time and heavy use, consider getting into the habit of scheduling routine air conditioning maintenance check-ups. Technicians from One Stop Heating & Cooling will swing by to completely assess and clean each component of your HVAC unit, including the filters, refrigerant, electrical connections, ductwork, condensate system, and blowers.

Consider a New HVAC System

The shelf life of a traditional HVAC system can be between 20 and 40 years with proper upkeep and maintenance. If you live in an older home without a history of HVAC maintenance, consider opting for a complete AC installation and upgrade. New systems have been made for the market to better accommodate homes with multiple pets or larger animals. Energy-efficient HVAC systems can better help your home remain comfortable while reducing your energy bill at the same time.

One Stop Heating & Cooling is proud to offer a variety of financing services for customers on approved credit. Is now the right time to replace your HVAC system?

Call One Stop Heating & Cooling Today!

One Stop Heating & Cooling is a family owned and operated business based out of Phoenix, AZ. Established with a focus on quality customer service and expert craftsmanship, One Stop Heating & Cooling is proud to offer sales, service, repair, and installation for HVAC systems, air conditioning units, and other indoor air quality products.

One Stop Heating & Cooling promises

  • 24 / 7 Emergency Services
  • Free Estimates
  • Residential & Commercial Services
  • Honest, Reliable, and Qualified Technicians

To schedule your HVAC service or to inquire after financing for a new HVAC installation, reach out to One Stop Heating & Cooling today to schedule the services that you need, tomorrow!

How To Handle AC Refrigerant Leaks

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Spend more than a summer in Arizona and you’ll want the nicest air conditioning unit you can find. An oasis for and supplier of relief, AC units are relied upon year-round to keep us comfortable when the temperatures are rising. Averages can climb into the 90’F mark with regularity, leaving most of us sweating and looking for comfort at home.

So, when your air conditioning unit begins to leak refrigerant as the thermostat starts to climb, you might feel like you are left without a solution. Fortunately, the team at One Stop Heating & Cooling is here to help!

What Is AC Refrigerant and What Does It Do?

While we may have grown used to the push-button convenience of modern air conditioning, HVAC systems are relatively complicated machines. Refrigerant leaks are one of the most common forms of failure in older HVAC systems and, as such, most homeowners and renters might need to learn a bit more about them.

When you turn on your air conditioning unit, it will begin pushing refrigerant in either liquid or gas form toward your air conditioning unit’s air compressor. At this point, the compressor will trap and compress the coolant, forcing it into a smaller space where they collide and begin to produce heat. After this heat is produced, refrigerant is pushed through the condenser, onto the evaporator coils, and into your home.

If you do not have refrigerant in your system or if a leak prevents its correct operation, your air conditioning unit will only push out hot air, leaving you sweating when you need relief.

How Do I Know My Refrigerant Is Leaking?

Like most HVAC issues, diagnosing an issue will require a little bit of attentiveness. A refrigerant leak in your A/C unit may not be immediately noticeable, but a few signs and symptoms can point you in the right direction.

If you notice any of the following signs, your A/C might have leaking refrigerant issues.

  • Elevated Energy Bill – As the seasons’ progress, it is natural for our utility bills to ebb and flow. However, if you notice a higher-than-usual energy bill, there is a chance your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant. When an HVAC unit cannot properly process refrigerant, the machine is forced to run constantly while it attempts to cool your home. This leads to overworked HVAC machines and skyrocketing energy bills all without any comfort in the home.
  • Longer Cooling Times – There are a variety of reasons for a home to struggle to stay adequately cool during the summer. An HVAC unit may have clogged filters or it could even be improperly sized for your home. Another common reason for slow cooling times is due to leaking AC refrigerant. Your AC will be forced to work harder to get the same results that a healthy and fully stocked machine would require.
  • Elevated Humidity – When your air conditioning unit struggles to produce, it can cause the humidity levels in your home to rise. Leaking refrigerant will prevent your AC from properly dehumidifying your space, leaving you in an uncomfortable and potentially sticky environment.
  • Frozen Coil – Finally, an AC unit that is improperly functioning will potentially run into evaporator coil issues. If you assess your HVAC machine and see that the evaporator coil has frozen over or is covered in frost, you have found your problem.

Common Causes of AC Refrigerant Leaks

As with all appliances in the household, air conditioners only have a limited shelf life. If you have an older air conditioner or are faced with sudden operating issues, it might be due to one of the following reasons.

  • Eroded Joints – Weak HVAC joints can lead to erosion within the HVAC system. As the machines’ core components erode, the HVAC system will lose not just durability but efficiency as well. Contact a qualified HVAC technician to assess your system for weakened joints.
  • Corrosion – A major issue in leaking HVAC units; corrosion is produced by moisture and time. Corrosion causes cracks and splits to appear in the walls of your HVAC oils.
  • Improper Installation – Not only is it imperative to hire a qualified HVAC technician to repair your system, but you also want a professional to install it as well. Poor installation services can lead to leaking AC refrigerant, particularly if components are not well-fitted together.

Keep Cool With One Stop Heating & Cooling!

One Stop Heating & Cooling is a family-owned and operated company based out of Phoenix, AZ. Focused on high-quality work provided by exceptional professionals, One Stop Heating & Cooling prides itself on being the top HVAC company in Arizona.

Contact One Stop today to enjoy

  • 24/7 Emergency Services
  • Sales, Service, Repair, and Installation
  • Residential & Commercial Services
  • FREE ESTIMATES

Beat the heat this summer and call One Stop Heating & Cooling to fix your leaking AC refrigerant.

 

What You Need To Know About AC Thermostat Calibration

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Before the weather turns hot, you want to make sure your air conditioner is in good working order. Each part of your air conditioner must work properly for the entire unit to function. Even the smallest part not working will cause the unit to stop blowing out cold air. The thermostat is the brain behind your HVAC system. This is what ensures it runs properly. It may continue to push cold out into the air, but it may not do so efficiently. The thermostat may need calibration to run correctly and efficiently. Continue reading to find out more about air conditioning thermostat calibration.

What is Thermostat Calibration?

When the thermostat is calibrated, it means the sensor it contains reads the temperature in your home correctly. When it is not calibrated, it means it is reading it improperly. For example, the temperature in your home could be 78 degrees, but the thermostat reads 70 degrees. Then, your house does not cool the way you want it to. In addition, your air conditioner will not be efficient and may run constantly. As a result, you will spend more money to cool your house to the temperature you want. This causes a strain on your air conditioning, and you may have expensive repairs as a result.

How Often to Calibrate?

It would be best if you had the thermostat calibrated at least once per year. It depends on how many people may be adjusted your thermostat. If you have it set to a schedule and do not play with it much, calibration once a year should be sufficient.

How to Calibrate

To ensure that your thermostat is functioning properly, you should contact the professionals at One Stop Heating & Cooling. We would be more than happy to meet with you and ensure your thermostat is calibrated and the air conditioning is running properly.

If you want to calibrate your thermostat yourself, there are some steps you must follow.

Check the Thermostat

You want to make sure that the thermostat is the problem. Let your air conditioner run for 15 minutes and use an indoor thermometer to check the temperature in the house. You want to compare it to the temperature on the thermostat. If there are differences by even one degree, then you should calibrate your thermostat.

Clean Thermostat

You must take the cover off the thermostat. Then, carefully use a cloth and soft brush to clean the components inside. You should not use compressed air or a vacuum cleaner to clean the thermostat because the pressure is too much for the internal parts.

Make Adjustments

If there is a mercury vial, you want to make sure it is straight. You can use a level to ensure it is straight. You want to be careful with the vial. It does contain mercury. At any point, you can contact One Stop Heating & Cooling to provide assistance and calibrate your thermostat. For thermostats without a mercury vial, they have a calibration screw. The calibration screw is inside a piece of metal in the thermostat. Using the proper size screwdriver, you can turn the screw to open the contacts. After a few seconds, turn the screw to close the contacts. This will reset the contacts to provide a good connection.

Wiring Connections

You want to check the wiring in the thermostat. You want to make sure they are clean and without corrosion. You can use a cotton swab to clean the dirt. Check the wires one last time before you put the cover back on the thermostat.

Check Thermostat

After you have cleaned the thermostat, adjusted the mercury vial or calibration screw, cleaned the wiring, you want to check the temperature again. Let the air conditioning run for 15 minutes to recalibrate it. After that, take a reading with the indoor thermometer. Then, compare this temperature with the thermostat reading. The temperatures should be the same. If they still do not match, you can repeat the same steps. You can also consider contacting the professionals at One Stop Heating & Cooling. We will make sure all the parts of your air conditioning are running smoothly. They will also be able to determine quickly if the problem with your air conditioning is the thermostat or some other component.

When the thermostat is calibrated, it will cool your home properly, which creates a comfortable environment in your home. In addition, when your thermostat runs efficiently, it saves you money on your energy bill because it will not overwork and run constantly to maintain what it thinks is the correct temperature in your home. This also helps to prevent costly repairs for your air conditioning unit. When it runs inefficiently, it causes strain on the unit, which ultimately means it will break down and require repair more often.

How A Heat Pump Works

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There are heat pumps installed in homes all throughout this country, but most people still don’t know how they work. A heat pump has a strange name and doesn’t work like your conventional AC system.

Let’s go through all of the basics of heat pumps and what you need to know about this type of climate control.

What Does Your Heat Pump Do?

HVAC experts like the people at One Stop Heating and Cooling get this question all the time. Did you know that a heat pump is actually both an air conditioner and a heater in one? This is something that often surprises people because the name heat pump suggested only does heating.

Your heat pump works by reversing the flow of your air conditioner. It’s really that simple. The same compressor system that your air conditioner uses to cool your house down can be used to warm your house up when the heat pump flips it in reverse.

Your heat pump also runs an electric energy. However, it’s not an electric heater. This is also one of the things about a heat pump that can get people confused. Let’s take a look at how heat pumps are powered.

What Fuels Your Heat Pump?

Homes typically run on one of three different types of power. You either have your heating and cooling powered by oil, natural gas, or electricity. Heat pumps use electricity to help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Oil and natural gas heating are very inefficient. They are both responsible for higher pollution and emissions, as well as less responsive heating and cooling. Electric heating and cooling, such as a heat pump, are much more effective at maintaining the temperature in your home.

It’s also more affordable to repair when you need to call an AC repair technician to fix your electric heating system.

Heat Pump VS Electric Furnace

Electric furnaces work very differently from heat pumps. Heat pumps are efficient devices and often take up less space than an electric furnace. Here’s how you can quickly understand how an electric furnace heats your home.

That’s the first thing I need to mention. Electric furnaces can only heat homes. Unlike heat pumps, they’re unable to cool your home.  An electric furnace has large metal coils that heat up and warm air that is then pushed into your home. You can think about this as the same kind of metal coils you would see on a toaster.

Heat Pump VS Gas Furnace

Gas furnaces share a lot in common with electric furnaces. They both only heat hair and cannot cool your home. One of the biggest differences between a heat pump in a gas furnace that you need to consider is the cost of operation.

Gas furnaces can be more expensive than heat pumps depending on where you live. If the price of gas in your community is lower than the price of electricity, a gas furnace could be a better financial decision. This also depends on your climate and personal tastes.

Because a gas furnace can only heat air, it might not be very beneficial to you if you live in a warmer climate.

Heating and Cooling Cycles

Your heat pump operates on what are known as heating and cooling cycles. We’re not going to bury you in HVAC jargon here. This is going to be an easy way of understanding how an air conditioner works.

Air conditioners don’t technically cool or heat the air.  What they do is either remove hot air or reintroduce hot air.  Whether you’re heating or cooling your home, your air conditioner is really just managing the placement of energy in the air. That’s all heating is. It’s just air with a little bit more energy in it than cold air.

This is also why your AC unit is blowing out hot air when it’s keeping your house cool. It’s simply because that energy has to go somewhere and it’s currently pushing it outside of your home.

Can a Heat Pump Save You Money

There’s a good chance that updating to a modern heat pump can save you a lot of money. Let’s take a look at a few of the reasons why a heat pump can be the right decision for your home.

Heat pumps can save you money by switching over to electric systems. This might depend on the cost of utilities in your local area. The trend has been increasingly towards more affordable electricity while other utilities have seen their prices increase.

A heat pump is also a great way to update your heating and air conditioning system. If you have an old HVAC system in your home, then you should consider updating to a heat pump.

Repair, Install, and Maintain Your Heat Pump

Need the best local heat pump maintenance and installation? Get in touch with our friendly staff at One Stop Heating and Cooling today!

Simple Tips to Prep Your A/C Unit for Fall

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With cool weather rapidly approaching and the leaves beginning to change in turn, we know that Fall is upon us. Residents throughout Arizona can prepare for Fall this year by taking some time to properly winterize both their heating and cooling systems.  A little bit of preparation can go a long way toward extending the lifespan of your HVAC systems while substantially increasing the quality and comfort of your home.

Today, we are going to unveil a few simple tips that you can utilize today to prepare your air conditioning unit for the coming Fall season.

Take Time to Winterize Your Systems

First and foremost, preparing your HVAC system for the changing seasons can be integral to protecting your home. There are a few ways that you can tackle your winterizing process, so let’s highlight the most effective ones.

First, consider looking for any gaps or spaces between your windows, piping, and foundation. These gaps are common enough that they can create serious swings in your home’s internal temperature. You’ll save money on heating by re-sealing regularly.

Second, consider changing all air filters in your home. Most homeowners don’t realize that their air filters need to be changed with regularity. In doing so, you can prevent any potential build-up of pathogens or allergens. Additionally, regularly cleaning your air filters will ensure your system operates at its peak efficiency, thus running less while working more effectively.

Third, run your heat before you need to in order to test the system. The first time that you turn on your heating system for the Fall, you are likely to experience some funky smells including burnt dust from disuse. Let the unit run until the smell goes away.

Finally, consider hiring a professional HVAC company to clean all of your vents. Properly cleaning your vents will allow for better airflow, more efficient HVAC use, and a more comfortable home as a result.

Schedule An HVAC Tune-Up

Like a well-oiled machine, your HVAC system will operate best when it experiences a little bit of care and attention. Regular HVAC maintenance tune-ups can go a long way toward preventing major issues down the road. To avoid any unexpected emergencies when the timing couldn’t be worse, such as a cold week in Fall, consider undergoing seasonal inspections.

A seasonal HVAC inspection and tune-up service will encompass a few typical actions.

  • Clean All Air Ducts
  • Check Refrigerant Levels
  • Test Ducts For Seals & Leaks
  • Inspect and Tighten All Connections
  • Inspect Belts and Oil Motors

HVAC tune-up services are the best way to catch a problem before it manifests into an emergency.

Perform An Exterior Inspection

While much of our focus has been on the interior of your home, preventing issues during the Fall can require a little bit of legwork outside, as well. Find your external air conditioning unit and be sure to remove all potential debris from the surrounding condenser unit. A full summer’s worth of dirt, grime, leaves, and weeds can lead to disruption in airflow if left unattended. Rake, mow, and hose away any debris to keep your system functional.

Install Additional Insulation

If you want to go all-in on protecting your exterior HVAC system from the elements, consider installing foam pipe covers around any exposed wiring and piping. Use duct tape to affix the foam insulation in place while preventing the pipes from ever cracking or freezing. For suggestions on which insulation to use, contact One Stop Heating & Cooling for insight and support!

Inspect Your Thermostat & Fans

When was the last time that you changed your thermostat’s settings? With a change of the season, you can spend some time dialing in new settings for your air conditioner’s thermostat. Cooler temps will allow us to run our HVAC system less often, decreasing use while increasing our comfort. After you inspect your thermostat for any issues, consider upgrading to a programmable option to save money in the future.

Upon finishing with your thermostat, take some time to go room-by-room in your home to change the direction of the fans. Set your fans to rotate in the opposite direction when the cool weather arrives. This will allow you to keep your home more comfortable while reducing potential heating costs.

Contact One Stop Heating & Cooling!

One Stop Heating & Cooling is a family-owned and operated business located in Phoenix, AZ. With locations scattered throughout the surrounding area, One Stop is always just a call away from assisting you with your air conditioning and heating service needs. The team at One Stop specializes in HVAC sales, service, installation, and repairs.

Customers at One Stop Heating & Cooling enjoy

  • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
  • Quality Workmanship
  • 24/7 Emergency Service
  • Affordable Financing on Approval
  • Free Estimates!

Contact One Stop Heating & Cooling today for your next HVAC service!