Benefits of Ductless AC Systems | Air Conditioning Services

The ductless air conditioning system is becoming increasingly popular in Arizona. Because of their flexible physical footprint and better cooling technologies, they are an excellent solution for the problematic areas of a home. For instance, most older homes might not have air ducts or even experience cold and hot spots. They might even have recent addons which don’t have access to the original air ducts. Such spaces could benefit from ductless cooling and heating, meaning that such places could have quality air quality, humidity, and temperature control. Ductless systems have many advantages, from minimal air conditioning service, flexibility, higher efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and simple installation to improving indoor air quality and zoned comfort.

What are Ductless AC Systems?

Ductless heating and cooling systems operate without a need for air ducts. These systems are made of two units: an indoor evaporator and an outdoor compressor. The indoor unit releases the conditioned and cooled air into your indoor space while the outdoor unit elects the heat absorbed by the air outside. The two are connected through a tiny hole in the wall. The wall-mounted mini-split air conditioners are the most popular ductless systems. For the wall-mounted mini-splits, an indoor unit is usually mounted up high on a wall, and the outdoor unit is usually on the opposite side of that wall. It could also be mounted on a wall or the ground. As the introduction mentions, these units have many advantages, but money-saving is the greatest.

Financial Benefits Of Installing A Ductless AC

Reduced operational and installation costs are among the largest benefits you will experience by installing a ductless air conditioner. Your air conditioning system will account for almost a quarter of your home’s energy consumption. You could reduce that much money and energy by following more strategic means of cooling or heating your home. There are several ways by which installing a ductless air conditioning system could save you a considerable amount of money, including;

Multi-Purpose Design

 Some older homes rely on boilers for heating and a different cooling system during those warmer summers. Besides being outdated, using these systems means you’d have to replace the two different systems and also cover the costs of each separately. Your home’s cooling and heating systems are merged when you use ductless air conditioners. It uses the same process for warming your home in the cold season and cooling it during the warm season. Merging the two systems through heat pump technology can save you a fortune by streamlining the process and eliminating the entire system, which might need air conditioning services, repairs, and replacements separately.

High Efficiency

In conventional heating and air conditioning systems that use air ducts for delivering the conditioned air to different parts of your home, about a third of the air could be lost in the ducts. The forced air systems hugely rely on air ducts as the passageway into your home’s air vents. However, if the air starts escaping through the tiny holes, leaks, or seals, that means a waste of money and energy. Additionally, if something is up with the insulation, the ducts carrying heated air from the heat pump might experience heat loss. Hence, when the conditioned air reaches the vents, it has already lost all the heat. Conversely, ductless systems don’t rely on air ducts to carry heated or cooled air at your home. The air handling unit releases the conditioned air into the rooms or spaces where needed during delivery.

Minimal Maintenance

Ductless AC units require much less maintenance than ducted air conditioning systems. Only the coils and filter need to be cleaned regularly, unlike the ducted systems, whose ductworks also require cleaning. Other maintenance activities for ductless systems include ensuring the outside unit has no obstacles or shrubs around it. Besides such, the ductless air conditioning units don’t require any other specific care. This saves you money on maintenance and contractor charges compared to a ducted system. There aren’t any large leaks to inspect for, and patch vents in every room that need a thorough cleaning or even ducts to maintain. However, this isn’t a ticket to avoid maintaining the ductless systems. You should schedule regular air conditioning service before the cooling season starts.

Reduced Energy Use

Traditional heating and air conditioning systems blow air across the entire home even when only several rooms are used. On the other hand, ductless systems can use zone heating or cooling technology to ensure only the areas in use are cooled or heated, making your home energy efficient. Each outdoor unit can feed several strategically situated air handlers. It is also possible to control each air handler independently of the others. With this layout, you can concentrate on the regions of your house that you use the most while sending less air to the rooms that don’t get as much use. Your energy bill will decrease quickly if you use energy for cooling or heating the designated sections of your home.

Installation Costs

Is your home older and doesn’t feature a pre-existing network of air ducts in the walls or attic? When the time comes when you have an air conditioning service provider install an air conditioner, you could be facing considerable expenses in installing air ducts for your heating and air conditioning system. It is worth noting that air duct design and installation is the costliest part of standard air conditioning installation. This is something you can avoid today by opting to go ductless. While ductless systems might cost you more upfront than conventional AC units, the sheer amount of money you can save during installation offsets the difference.

Interested In An Efficient Air Conditioning Alternative?

One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating Of Phoenix is proud to make our clients make their homes eco-friendlier and more comfortable with units that save them money. Would you want to learn more about ductless air conditioning systems? Contact our experienced, friendly, and licensed AC repair technicians today. 

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How an Effective Air Conditioner Repair Keeps Your Home Cool and Comfortable

As the summer months approach, many homeowners rely on air conditioning systems to keep their homes cool and comfortable. However, even the most reliable air conditioning units can experience problems over time, leading to decreased efficiency and increased energy bills. This is where effective air conditioner repair comes in. Professional repair services can help ensure your air conditioning system runs at peak performance by addressing refrigerant leaks, faulty thermostats, and clogged filters.

The Benefits of Timely AC Repairs

Timely air conditioner repair is essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to potential issues promote your air conditioning system’s longevity, save you money on energy bills, and prevent costly breakdowns. Regular air conditioner repair has the following advantages:

Improved Energy Efficiency

Regular air conditioner repair ensures that your system is running at its optimal efficiency. A well-maintained unit consumes less energy, reducing your monthly utility bills. This saves you money and contributes to a greener environment by reducing your carbon footprint. 

Reduced Risk of Breakdowns

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to potential issues can help prevent sudden breakdowns, which can be inconvenient and expensive. By addressing problems early, you can avoid the stress and discomfort of a malfunctioning air conditioner during the hot summer months.

Increased Comfort

A well-maintained air conditioner provides consistent cooling and humidity control, ensuring a comfortable living environment. Timely repairs help maintain this comfort level by ensuring your system operates at its best.

Lower Repair Costs

Addressing minor issues as they arise can help prevent more significant problems that may require costly repairs. Investing in timely repairs can save money on potential future expenses.

Warranty Protection

Many air conditioner manufacturers require regular maintenance and timely repairs to keep the warranty valid. By staying on top of repairs, you can protect your investment and ensure the warranty covers any necessary repairs.

Reduced Noise Levels

A well-maintained air conditioner operates more quietly, providing a more peaceful living environment. Timely repairs can help address any issues causing excessive noise, such as loose parts or worn components.

Enhanced System Performance

Regular maintenance and timely repairs help your air conditioner operate at peak performance, providing optimal cooling and humidity control. This ensures that your system works effectively to maintain a comfortable living environment.

Prevention of Mold and Mildew Growth

A properly functioning air conditioner helps regulate humidity levels, hindering mold growth. Timely repairs can help maintain this important function, protecting your home and health.

Factors to Consider When Hiring a Professional Repair Technician

Hiring an AC repair technician is important, as it ensures your air conditioning system’s proper functioning and longevity. A skilled and experienced technician can diagnose and fix issues efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run. However, finding the right technician can be daunting, as numerous factors must be considered. 

Experience

The technician’s experience is crucial in determining their ability to effectively diagnose and repair your AC system. Look for a technician with several years of experience in the industry, as this indicates that they have dealt with a wide range of issues and are well-equipped to handle your specific problem. Additionally, experienced technicians are more likely to provide long-lasting solutions, reducing the likelihood of future issues.

Licensing and Certification

Ensure the technician you hire is licensed and certified to work on your specific AC system. Licensing and certification demonstrate that the technician has undergone the necessary training and possesses the required skills to perform the job. Hiring a licensed and certified technician also ensures that they adhere to industry standards and regulations, providing you with peace of mind.

Insurance

It’s essential to hire an AC repair technician who is insured. This shields you from the liability of accidents during the repair process. An insured technician also demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to protecting their clients.

Reputation

Research the reputation of the technician or the company they work for. Look for online reviews, testimonials, and ratings to gauge the quality of their services. A reputable technician will have a history of satisfied customers and a track record of successful repairs. One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix has a good reputation for its high-quality services.

Availability

When your AC system breaks down, you want a technician who can respond promptly and fix the issue immediately. Check the technician’s availability and response time to ensure they can provide timely service, especially during peak seasons when AC repair demands are high. One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix has professionals available to respond to local clients anytime.

Communication

Effective communication is essential when dealing with AC repair technicians. Choose a technician who clearly explains the issue, the required repairs, and any potential costs. This ensures you are well-informed and can make the best decision for your AC system.

Warranty

A reliable technician should provide a warranty on their work. This demonstrates confidence in their skills and assures you that any problems arising from the repair will be handled promptly and at no additional cost.

Specialization

Some AC systems require specialized knowledge and skills for proper repair. Ensure that the technician you hire has experience working with your specific AC system to guarantee effective and efficient service.

Ongoing Training

The HVAC industry constantly evolves, with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. Choose a technician who participates in ongoing training and best practices.

Professionalism

A professional technician should arrive promptly, be well-presented, and treat your property respectfully. This demonstrates their commitment to providing high-quality service and leaves a positive impression. The personnel at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix offer quality services with high professionalism.

If you’re experiencing issues with your air conditioning system, don’t wait until it’s too late. Visit us at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix today to schedule a professional repair service. With our timely repairs and regular maintenance services, you can save money on energy bills. Call us now to schedule an appointment.

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5 Ominous Signs You Need to Call a Professional AC Repair Service

When the weather gets too hot, your air conditioning system springs into action to push your ambient temperature to a comfortable level. Therefore, if your AC breaks down, it can cause serious inconveniences, make your home virtually uninhabitable, and even put your family in danger. Besides, some HVAC problems can be quite costly to fix. The good news is that, in most cases, air conditioning issues do not develop abruptly. Therefore, if you are careful enough, you might notice some early signs of air conditioning failure and get them addressed when it is still easy, convenient, and less costly to do so. However, no matter how much you like getting your hands dirty, you should not be tempted to fix air conditioning issues on your own unless you are a professional HVAC contractor. Instead, you need to have a professional AC repair service you can trust to help you handle any air conditioning issue you might run into. But when is the right time to call an air conditioning repair service to your house? Below is a rundown of some warning signs of an AC failure that should prompt you to seek professional help.

AC Running Constantly

When the weather is too hot, it is not unusual for air conditioners to run for extended hours, especially if the thermostat setting is too low. However, this does not mean that your air conditioning system should be running without stopping. Therefore, if you have noticed that your air conditioning system is not stopping at all, there is something wrong with it. Some of the issues that can cause an AC to run constantly include clogged filters, a broken thermostat, and poor home insulation, among others. But whatever the cause of the problem might be, it might cause your HVAC system to become less efficient and consequently push your energy bills higher. Therefore, if you have noticed that your AC runs without stopping, it is imperative for you to make a quick call to your AC repair service before you can be slapped with high electricity bills.

AC Making Odd Noises

Modern air conditioning systems are not noisy, but they do not run entirely silently. When your AC is operating normally, you might hear the sound of the fan starting and running. You might also hear the sound of air blowing through the ductwork. However, the natural AC sound should not be bothersome. Therefore, if you have noticed that your AC is too noisy that it is affecting your ability to concentrate on other things, then your AC could be on the verge of breaking down. Some common reasons an AC might produce unusual sounds include a broken compressor, refrigerant leaks, poor lubrication, and loose crews, among others. Therefore, when you notice that your AC has suddenly become too noisy, you should call a professional AC repair service to help you pinpoint the source of the noise and ensure it is addressed before it can get out of hand and cost you even more to fix.

AC Consumes Too Much Energy

Of course, the air conditioner consumes a significant amount of energy, considering the amount of work it needs to do to keep your ambient temperatures within your preferred range. However, when it is operating optimally, its energy consumption should be stable and predictable. Therefore, if you have noticed that your energy bills have been rising sharply of late, there could be something seriously wrong with your AC. Examples of issues that can cause your AC to lose efficiency include poor maintenance, dirty coils, low refrigerant, poor home insulation, and leaking air ducts, among others. But whatever the cause of the problem might be, you need to call a professional HVAC contractor to help you diagnose its underlying cause before it can lead to more severe air conditioning problems.

AC Leaking Water

When your air conditioner is operating normally, no water should be leaking from it. Therefore, the area around it should be fairly dry. As such, if you have noticed that the area around your AC keeps getting wet, no matter how much you try to keep it dry, the appliance could be broken, and you have a legitimate reason to be concerned. But what exactly might cause an AC to leak water? In most cases, this problem is caused by the formation of clogs in the condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is designed to drain out the water that is formed as the water vapor in your indoor air condensed, and therefore, if it is clogged, the water will back up and eventually leak from your AC. If the issue is not fixed on time, this water might damage some components of your AC, and therefore, you need to make a quick call to your AC repair service as soon as you notice some water leaking from your AC.

Evaporator Coil Keeps Freezing

The evaporator coil is an integral component of your AC. It is a block of copper coils that increases the surface area for the refrigerant flowing through it to optimally absorb heat from your indoor air. For your AC to work properly, the coil’s external surface must be clean and warm. Therefore, if ice seems to be forming on the surface of the coil, then you could be staring at a serious air conditioning failure. If the issue is not fixed on time, it might cause the refrigerant in the evaporator coil to condense, putting the compressor at risk of getting damaged. To avert such an eventuality, you need to switch off your AC and call an air conditioning repair service as soon as you notice ice forming on the surface of the evaporator coil.

The Bottom Line

If you are looking for a dependable air conditioning repair service to help you address any sign of AC failure, One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix is the answer. Call us for more information about our company and services.

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How Heat Pumps Operate and Reasons For Condensation; Why Air Conditioning Service Is Critical

As a homeowner, one of your home’s most essential aspects is knowing the operation of the systems and appliances in different seasons. Understanding the operation of your heat pump is most important since its significance in your home is based on seasonal changes. For example, during the cooling or heating season, you should know the dos and don’ts of your heat pump. This will ensure that you take good care of the furnace so that it will operate when winter comes. However, it is best to have regular heating and air conditioning service to better care of your heat pump. This article will highlight the operation of a heat pump and possible reasons for high condensation.

Heat Pump Definition

A heat pump is a component in your HVAC system that primarily heats your home’s air supply. In other terms, this is a central unit of your heating system. In some cases, a heat pump can also play the essential role of cooling your home. A heat pump is typically powered by electricity and installed in your HVAC system’s outdoor unit. 

During regular operation, a heat pump produces condensation regardless of the season. Therefore, this happens in your HVAC system’s cooling and heating cycles. However, the amount of condensation a heat pump produces depends on its usage and the humidity level in the air. Therefore, always ensure that water from a heat pump’s condensation drains away from the structure of your home to avoid damaging your home. 

What is a Condensation?

Although homeowners hear heating and air conditioning service professionals say that the heat pump condensate, not all understand this. Condensation is where water vapor, commonly called steam, transforms into a liquid when the steam comes into contact with a cold surface. This can be easily understood by visualizing the process of boiling water. When water leaves the pot in gaseous form, it condenses; when it touches a cold lid forming droplets of water. When invisible gaseous water cools down, it condenses, transforming into forms such as fog, mist, or dew. 

How Do Heat Pumps Produce Condensation? 

Since your HVAC unit constantly operates in hot and cold temperatures, condensation can form on or inside your unit. During the heating cycle, a heat pump pulls hot air from the environment and transfers it to your indoor space. Therefore, condensation will form on the heat pump’s surface during high humidity and drop to the surrounding ground.  During your HVAC cooling cycle, the heat pump will suck hot air from your home and transfer it to the environment. Consequently, condensation may form inside and drain into the system’s drain pan. Therefore, emptying the drain pan when the condensate collects in significant amounts is advisable. 

Is It Normal for a Heat Pump to Leak Water? 

Have you been noticing water leaking from your heat pump? This is not a need for alarm. When a heat pump runs, it forms condensation, which leaves the unit as water drops. However, you should contact a heating and air conditioning service provider if your heat pump starts to leak water inside your home due to a failure in the system. Sometimes your heat pump will leak water to indicate a problem within the HVAC system. When this happens, immediately contact a professional to avoid further deterioration. Some of the reasons why your heat pump might leak due to failure include; 

Dirty Evaporator Coil 

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system has a cold evaporator coil whose primary purpose is to drain the moisture from the heat pump and into the drain pan. However, too much dirt and dust accumulating on the evaporator coil causes a clog. Since the condensate cannot reach the drain pan, it may leak onto the ground. If left uncleaned for a long time, a dirt evaporator coil will impact the seamless operation of your HVAC system resulting in an inefficient system. 

Dirty Air Filters 

The other failure on your system that can result in a leaking heat pump is dirty air filters. When the air filter in a heat pump is left unattended, dirt, dust, and other particles, find their way into the filters. After some time, these particles accumulate, causing a blockage that compromises the heating and cooling performance of the heat pump. Eventually, the water leaks into your home since the heat pump is not operating efficiently. Therefore, you should always clean the filters on the heat pump to avoid such occurrences. 

Disconnected Drain Line 

During regular operation, the drain line of an HVAC system helps dispense the condensate from the heat pump to the drain pan. However, the condensate is not successfully delivered to the drain pan when the drain line is disconnected or loose. Consequently, it results in a leakage both outside and inside your home. 

Clogged Drain Line 

When the system’s drain line is clogged by mold, dirt, and other debris, the condensate flow is interfered with, which might result in water overflowing into your home. The water can damage the integrity of your home’s structure. It can also result in mold formation by providing a conducive environment for the development and spread of mold. Therefore, it is advisable to have a regular air conditioning service for your unit to avoid blocking your drain line. 

Blocked Air Ducts 

Blocked air ducts are the other failure in your HVAC system that can result in water leakage. A clog within your system’s air ducts can cause temperature imbalances. Therefore, if you notice that some rooms are warmer than others, it indicates that airflow is obstructed in the ductwork. Eventually, blocked air ducts will lead to unnecessary condensation.

Heat Pump Repair Services

Have you noticed that your heat pump leaks water or condensation on parts such as vets and ducts? Contact us at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix for an immediate inspection. We’ll fix any underlying issue causing the condensation and protect your home from dangers such as mold growth. 

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Importance of a Thermal Expansion Valve and Reasons To Retain the Maintenance services From a Reliable AC Repair Company

An air conditioning system is a collection of a range of components. Every one of the AC parts plays a critical role in ensuring that your home is sufficiently cooled while at the same time ensuring the air conditioner remains efficient. Chances are that you are familiar with some of these components. However, there are others you may not know much about, and a thermal expansion valve is one of these. Having said that, if you do not know what an expansion valve is, that doesn’t mean that its function isn’t critical. You should retain an AC repair company for routine maintenance of even the smallest components. The points below will help you better understand the value of an expansion valve in an air conditioner.

What is an Air Conditioner Thermal Expansion Valve?

The air conditioner can cool your home thanks to a coolant or refrigerant. The coolant absorbs the heat from the air as it passes through the coils, allowing the cooled air to be distributed by the AC across your home. Thermal expansion valves are usually found on newer high-efficiency units. It controls the volume of refrigerant that flows through the air conditioning system depending on your cooling needs. If the cooling needs are not as high as they were several days ago, then you don’t need as much refrigerant flowing through the system. The thermal expansion valve is the component that ensures this.

Benefits of an Air Conditioner Thermal Expansion Valve

Enhanced Temperature Control

A greater control over the volume of coolant flowing via the air conditioning system accords greater control over how the indoor air is cooled. Therefore, if you are the kind of person that has very particular temperature preferences, the AC thermal expansion valve will ensure you achieve maximum comfort.

Maintains Proper Refrigerant Levels

The coolant levels in an air conditioning system will sometimes drop too low to meet your cooling needs. This usually happens when refrigerant leaks or the lines are poorly installed. Do you suspect your unit might have a refrigerant leak? Are you smelling a sweet, chloroform-like smell? Immediately contact your AC repair company after you turn the unit off. Refrigerant is a toxic material if inhaled. Hence, don’t try patching the leak by yourself. Besides posing a risk to your health, low refrigerant levels might result in compressor damage.

Saving Money

Upgrading to an air conditioning system with an expansion valve can save you a fortune in the long run. Using the proper coolant volume optimizes the air conditioning system’s overall efficiency. The energy utility bills will remain reasonable whenever the air conditioning system runs efficiently. Further, the high efficiency also prevents the air conditioning system from being overburdened.

An air conditioner using a lot of energy will prematurely break down compared to one which uses the right amount. This means that low efficiency will, on top of leading to high energy bills, result in frequent and expensive AC repairs. Eventually, you would also need to replace the air conditioning system prematurely than you would if it were working more efficiently. Avoid such costs by installing a thermal expansion valve (where possible) or entirely replacing the system.

 Protecting the Compressor

There are some instances where too much coolant flows back into the compressor. This phenomenon is called refrigerant flood back and can damage the AC compressor. Knowing the cost of a compressor, replacing it is as good as purchasing a new system altogether. If your air conditioning unit has a thermal expansion valve, this has less likelihood of happening. Since an expansion valve exerts control over the refrigerant flow, it reduces the chances of refrigerant flooding back, which might damage the compressor. This saves a fortune. After all, the compressor is another vital component of the air conditioning system.

Consistency

The thermal expansion valve is designed to react to the cooling needs of your home. Thus, its expansion valves tend to maintain the temperatures across your home with a higher consistency level than ACs without them.

Thermal Expansion Valves Improve Efficiency

Enhanced efficiency is the main reason for upgrading the system to have a thermal expansion valve. An efficient air conditioning system can save you a fortune over the years. Are you considering an upgrade? Consult an AC repair company to see whether an expansion valve can be added or if you need an entirely new system. Reliable air conditioning repair technicians can help you choose a unit after calculating the tonnage. To enhance efficiency;

Check for Air Leakages

 When cleaning your home, check for spots that might allow warm air. If you identify any, you should seal them accordingly.

Schedule Inspections

The developing minor issues might become full-blown and reduce the efficiency of the AC unless identified and resolved promptly. Hence, you should enlist an AC repair company for regular inspections.

Reducing Environmental Impact

By now, you already understand that a thermal expansion valve can help boost the efficiency of your air conditioner. This not doesn’t only guard against higher energy utility bills. When your AC uses less energy to cool your indoor space, its environmental impact reduces. This is worth considering if you are looking for ways to conserve energy.

Responsiveness

AC thermal expansion valves also are very responsive. Whenever you adjust the temperatures on your thermostat, the air conditioner registers the changes fast, allowing you to get comfortable fast. However, leaks are less likely to affect the performance of your AC negatively if your unit features an expansion valve. You must address the refrigerant leak promptly, although the valves help maintain the coolant levels. However, the leakage would have a minimal impact than it could otherwise.

Contact Us For AC Replacements

Are you interested in replacing your present air conditioner with one equipped with a thermal expansion valve? Contact One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Phoenix for more information and AC replacement services. 

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