CJS Heating and AC Repair

What’s that Smell?

If you take a moment to consider the complexity and sophistication of modern HVAC systems, it’s a wonder they malfunction as rarely as they do. When HVAC problems do crop up, they’re usually accompanied by a variety of distinctive smells. Here are a few unusual odors to look out for that may signal the need for a minor or significant HVAC repair in the immediate future.

Wet Newspaper

 One HVAC smell you’re guaranteed to encounter at some point is that of mold and mildew. More often than not, this lovely odor is caused by a backed-up condensate drain line. If the condensate line doesn’t drain properly, mold can rapidly proliferate throughout the HVAC system. Clearing the condensate drain line won’t always solve the dilemma. You may need to thoroughly clean ducts to get rid of the smell.hvac smell

Auto Exhaust

 Modern HVAC units rely on a variety of fluids to deliver superior heating and cooling. If one of those fluids is leaking, you’ll be able to smell it in short order through the vents. A smoky HVAC smell associated with leaking fluids can indicate that indoor air is contaminated with harmful particles. Furthermore, an exhaust smell is a good sign that a major repair is needed.

Burnt Plastic

 Once you’ve smelled a failing electric motor, you’ll never forget the odor. It’s an HVAC smell that’s unlike any other you’re likely to encounter. The smell of burnt or burning plastic can indicate a variety of complications. Broken wire insulation resulting in a short circuit could be one culprit. Failing motor bushings could be another. Long story short, these smells should be investigated by a competent HVAC professional.

Expired Eggs

 Generally speaking, the smell of sulfur is never a good sign, even if you encounter it far away from HVAC hardware. Rotten eggs are an HVAC smell that often points to a natural gas leak. If you smell rotten eggs, killing the gas and turning off the power is a good idea. Contacting an HVAC specialist to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible is an even better idea.

Chemicals of Any Kind

 A malfunctioning HVAC system will emit a variety of unusual smells when something is wrong. If your central HVAC unit or the air coming from the ducts smells like a high school chemistry lab or a garage, you need to address the trouble ASAP. You might smell turpentine or formaldehyde when a major issue crops up, depending on the make and model of your HVAC unit.

What to Do When You Detect a Potential HVAC Smell

 Unless there’s a plausible alternate explanation for any of the smells mentioned above, you probably have an emerging HVAC issue that requires your attention. Do yourself a favor and call in an HVAC specialist quickly to size up the problem. By getting ahead of the situation, you’ll potentially save yourself thousands in repairs in the long run. When it comes to an awful smell, the nose never lies.

Benefits of an Air Conditioning Tune Up

columbus air conditioning serviceDealing with the humid summers and frigid winters that Ohioans face is much easier if your HVAC is firing on all cylinders. An annual air conditioning tune up is the best way to get the most from your system. Here are a few benefits that come with prudent HVAC upkeep.

Increased Hardware Longevity

If you want to get more than 20 years out of your HVAC, a yearly air conditioning tune up is imperative. Lubricating moving parts can go a long way towards reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures. A little money spent on maintenance will save you a boatload on future repairs.

Improved System Performance

A poorly maintained HVAC system will take forever to heat or cool your home to your desired temperature. The good news is that something as simple as swapping out air filters can drastically improve performance immediately. The resulting improvements in system responsiveness will lead to a higher quality of life for occupants.

Lower Utility Bills

Even under optimal circumstances, a typical HVAC system consumes an unbelievable amount of juice. An air conditioning tune up will ensure that you don’t spend more than necessary on kilowatt-hours to keep the domicile cool. Dirty registers and low refrigerant levels can spike your electricity bill to an unbelievable degree.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Obstructed condensate drain lines and mold-ridden ducts are a sure-fire way to exacerbate allergies and asthma when left unchecked. A good air conditioning tune up will remove these health threats and make indoor air more pleasant to breath. What’s more, a regular AC overhaul can banish unpleasant smells from your home.

Reduced Frequency of Repairs

Recharging refrigerant levels and shoring up dodgy electrical connections will usually prevent major repairs later on. Having HVAC technicians come into your home to perform repairs is a major disruption to your schedule. A little HVAC upkeep can save you plenty of hassle as far as scheduling repairs goes.

Less Money Spent on Repairs

It’s so much more cost effective to keep an aging HVAC component in service than replacing it every few years. Quality OEM HVAC parts cost a pretty penny when they inevitably fail. In addition, installing them requires a decent number of man-hours worth of labor by skilled technicians who don’t work cheap.

Quieter Operation Throughout the Year

An HVAC system that’s been neglected insofar as preventative maintenance is concerned can be quite the noisy beast. Between compressors abruptly kicking on and bearings whining under intense strain, a poorly maintained AC can really keep you up at night. Spending a few bucks on an annual check-up can reduce the decibel level by a wide margin.

Kick Your HVAC Into High Gear With CJS!

If you need the best air conditioning tune up money can buy, the friendly team at CJS Heating and Air is your best bet. Whether you live in Kokomo or Columbus, we have the skills and in-the-field experience required to make your HVAC hum like it’s designed to do. Call us today to schedule the tune up that your HVAC system deserves!

Get Your AC System Ready For Spring!

By the time winter is over, most of us can’t wait for the warm weather to arrive. When you’re welcoming spring, though, don’t forget to consider your air conditioning system. A little bit of maintenance at the change of seasons will help to ensure you’ll stay cool and comfortable throughout the spring and summer.  

  • First, do your part. Go check out the condenser, the part of your AC system that’s outside. In order to work properly, it’s got to be clean and clear, free of debris and rubble. You’ll want to make sure the area around it is clear, about two feet on all sides, clearing toys, shrubs, branches, and anything else that might interfere with its ability to do its job. Rake away any leaves that could potentially get sucked back into it, and spray it down with the hose to get rid of any dirt. Once you’ve handled that, head inside and change your air filter. Keeping the air filter clean is essential to an efficiently running system. 
  • Then, call in a professional. At the change of every season, it’s a good idea to call in an expert AC technician, who will give your system a thorough going-over. The technician will check the filter, add refrigerant, look for signs of leaking fluid, check the various components for wear, inspect the system, tighten the connections, and replace any worn parts.  
  • Is it time to consider an upgrade? If your heating and cooling system is nearing twelve to fifteen years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. Technology has really improved, and the newer systems are more efficient, which means they conserve energy and save you money. What’s more, they’ve got features like zone control, which gives you the flexibility to set different temperatures in different rooms, which is extremely convenient. Smart thermostats are useful too, increasing the system’s efficiency with programmable functions. If you aren’t ready to upgrade your system just yet, consider adding a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier alleviates some of the strain on your AC system and makes a room more comfortable. 
Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance or you need a whole new air conditioning system, you can trust CJS Heating and Air to handle the work for you. We believe in transparency and professionalism, so you’ll know the detailed price before we ever get started, and our team will work hard to make sure you’re satisfied. Our techs are screened, background checked, tested and trained, and our service is dependable and backed up with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about us, please visit our website, chat with a friendly representative, or give us a call with any questions you might have.  ]]>

Does Your AC System Need to be Repaired or Replaced?

When your air conditioner starts blowing warm air, making loud noises or costing way more than usual to operate, you may assume the best route is to repair it. However, depending on your situation, it may be more cost-effective to replace the unit with a new, high-efficiency model. Here are some factors to help you decide whether you should repair or replace your AC system.  Age of Your Equipment  Most air conditioners are designed for a lifespan of 10 to 15 or even 20 years. The problem with older equipment is that it’s often more expensive to repair, and once you do, you’re still stuck with a lower-efficiency unit. That’s why you should seriously consider replacing an AC unit that’s over 15 years old the next time it breaks down.  Cost of the Repair  If a major component fails, the cost to repair your air conditioner could be quite high. Multiply the repair quote you receive ($450, for example) by the age of your air conditioner (14 years, perhaps). If this figure ($6,300 in this case) is higher than the cost to install a new AC unit, the decision is clear: you should replace your air conditioner.  Equipment Performance  If your current unit has trouble keeping up, replacing it could lead to significant energy savings and improved home comfort – even if the system is still in working order. Consider that upgrading a 10 SEER unit to an 18 SEER model can save you about 45 percent on your home cooling costs. Plus, because your aging air conditioner is no longer performing at its peak, the savings are likely to be even higher.  Repair History  Consider what repairs have already gone into your air conditioner. For instance, if the compressor was replaced recently, it could be worth paying for another repair to get more out of this expensive component. However, if you’ve been faced with repair after repair the past two or three summers, you may be ready to call it quits.  Type of Refrigerant  Many older air conditioners run on R-22 refrigerant, also known as Freon. This ozone-depleting refrigerant has been phased out in favor of R-410A, a cleaner alternative. If your AC starts leaking Freon, the shortage of R-22 refrigerant could make the cost to fix and recharge it far more than it’s worth.  Whether You’re Moving Soon  If you plan on selling your house within a year or two, replacing your old AC unit first could attract potential buyers. Even if you’re staying put for the foreseeable future, it may be wise to invest in your future comfort by replacing rather than repairing your broken system.  The best way to decide if you should repair or replace your air conditioner is to speak with a reputable heating and cooling technician. You’ll receive a fair service quote and expert advice regarding your replacement options.  Contact CJS Heating and Air for more useful cooling tips or to schedule air conditioning services in Columbus, OH. ]]>

Common AC Myths to Watch Out For

As a homeowner, you’re continually on the lookout for tips to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer. Unfortunately, misinformation and incorrect assumptions lead to energy waste and high cooling costs. Learn the truth about these common AC myths so you can run your air conditioner as efficiently as possible.  Myth: Cranking the temperature way down cools your home faster.  Fact: Unless you have a variable-speed air handler, adjusting the thermostat is like flipping a light switch, not pressing on a gas pedal. Setting the temperature to 60 degrees won’t cool your house any faster – all it does is overshoot your comfort zone and waste energy in the process. Adjust the thermostat a little at a time. You’ll be amazed at the difference a degree or two makes.  Myth: If you have central air conditioning, you never need to run the ceiling fan.  Fact: Sure, you have the power to stay comfortable without ever running a fan, but you’ll pay more for it. With a fan blowing on your skin, the room feels up to 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to set the thermostat to 78 degrees while making it feel as though it’s 74 degrees. Just remember to turn off the fan when no one’s in the room since the “wind chill effect” cools people without actually lowering the temperature.  Myth: It’s cheaper to leave the thermostat at the same setting all the time, even when you’re away.  Fact: The thinking here is that turning up the thermostat to 82 degrees while you’re gone only forces the air conditioner to work harder to restore a comfortable temperature when you get home. While this is true to a point, a programmable thermostat can save you 5 to 10 percent on your cooling bills if you set the temperature back for eight hours or more at a time every day.   Myth: Bigger AC units are always better.  Fact: When the time comes to replace your air conditioner, remember – size matters! An oversized unit isn’t better because it operates with shorter cycles, impairing its ability to dehumidify your home. This leaves you feeling cool but clammy. Air conditioners work better when they run a bit longer, so make sure the unit you install is sized correctly for your home.  Myth: Air conditioner maintenance is a waste of money.  Fact: Some homeowners think tune-ups are a ploy AC contractors use to make more money. However, preventative AC maintenance ensures safe, efficient, reliable operation all summer long. It lowers your cooling bills, prevents breakdowns and helps your equipment last years longer.  The biggest truth is that energy savings come from running your air conditioner sensibly. Close the windows while the AC is running. If you get overheated, turn on the fan before you adjust the thermostat. There are plenty of ways to keep your summer energy bills in check without being uncomfortable.  To learn more, or to schedule air conditioning services in Columbus, OH, please contact CJS Heating and Air. ]]>

How to Avoid Costly AC Repairs this Summer

In hot, humid Columbus, Ohio, you count on your air conditioner for comfort day and night. Unfortunately, it always seems like problems arise right when you need your AC the most. Many issues start small, but if ignored, they can develop into something more serious.   For instance, a clogged air filter can impair home comfort and raise your energy bills; a clogged condensate drain can cause water to back up into your home, and a fraying fan belt can snap and damage other components around it. Avoid cooling issues – and the costly repairs that often accompany them – with these tips.  Change the Air Filter Regularly   Make a habit of checking the air filter once a month, and change it after no more than three months or as recommended by the manufacturer. A clogged AC filter slows airflow through the system, making your air conditioner work harder than necessary to circulate air. This puts more pressure on various system components and makes them wear out sooner. Extend the life of your AC and avoid costly repairs this summer by completing this simple maintenance task.  Clean the Outdoor Condensing Unit  The exterior portion of your air conditioner, known as the condensing unit, is exposed to the elements. When dirt, cobwebs, grass clippings and leaves collect in the fins, the unit struggles to run properly. Hose it down at least once a year to clean off layers of dirt and debris. Trim back vegetation as well to ensure adequate airflow. The goal is to keep at least one to two feet of clearance on all sides of the condensing unit.  Check the Condensate Pan Frequently  A condensate pan located beneath the evaporator coil collects water dripping from the coils as the AC unit extracts heat and moisture from the indoor air. Under normal circumstances, this water drains away through the condensate line. However, if the drain becomes clogged with algae or other debris, the pan may fill to the brim.  This creates one of two problems – either the AC stops running because of a system failsafe, or the pan overflows and causes water damage. Fortunately, there’s an easy fix: simply check the condensate pan on occasion to ensure it’s draining properly. Slime-preventing tablets are available to help keep clog-prone condensate lines clear.  Schedule AC Maintenance Once a Year  On top of these things you can do yourself, you should also schedule professional AC maintenance annually to help avoid costly AC repairs. The purpose of such an inspection is to clean vital components, lubricate moving parts, tighten electrical connections and make sure everything is working right. If the tech finds a frayed fan belt, it’s easy to replace it before it snaps and causes more damage. In this way, annual AC maintenance not only keeps your cooling system up and running, but it also lowers your utility bills and prolongs the life of your equipment.  To schedule an air conditioning tune-up in Columbus, OH, please contact CJS Heating and Air. ]]>

How to Lower Your Summer Cooling Costs

When things start to heat up outside, you stay comfortable by hunkering down in your nice, air-conditioned home. Unfortunately, central air is notorious for generating excessively high electricity bills. Use these tips to lower your summer cooling costs without losing your cool. 

  • Set the temperature as high as possible: If you dress in long sleeves and long pants and keep the thermostat at 74 degrees, you’re wasting energy and money. Dress for the season and turn up the temperature as high as you can without feeling uncomfortable. 78 degrees is a reasonable goal. 
  • Run the ceiling fan: If 78 degrees feels a bit warm, turn on a fan to create a “wind chill effect.” This makes the room feel 4 degrees cooler while consuming about 98 percent less electricity than the air conditioner. 
  • Install a programmable thermostat: Do you spend all day at work? There’s no need to cool a vacant house. If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, install one and set it to 82 degrees while you’re gone all day to save 5 to 10 percent on your cooling bills. The automatic recovery feature restores a comfortable 78 degrees before you get home, allowing you to maximize energy savings without sacrificing comfort. 
  • Block the sun: Solar heat gain is a major contributor to high cooling costs. Keep the sun out by blocking the windows. Drapes and blinds prevent direct sunlight from shining in, while window films reflect heat before it transmits through the glass. You can also plant trees or install awnings to shade south- and west-facing windows during the heat of the afternoon. 
  • Seal up air leaks: Hot summer air wafting into your home is enough to raise your cooling bills significantly. Air sealing keeps conditioned air inside where it belongs for improved comfort and lower energy costs. 
  • Decrease interior heat gain: Your air conditioner must also counteract any heat generated within your home, so refrain from using the stove, oven, dishwasher, clothes dryer and other heat-generating appliances at the hottest times of the day. 
  • Replace the AC filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and increasing your cooling costs. Replace the filter every month (or as recommended by the manufacturer) to keep the air flowing and your utility bills under control. 
  • Tune up your air conditioner: The same way a car requires oil changes to get the best gas mileage, your AC needs routine maintenance to run at peak performance. Tune up your air conditioner every year to prepare it for an efficient summer. 
  • Upgrade to a high-efficiency cooling system: When the time comes to replace your AC, choose one that has earned the Energy Star rating. This ensures more efficient performance that will reduce your utility bills for many seasons to come. 
For more information about lowering your summer cooling costs, or to schedule air conditioning services in Columbus, OH, please contact CJS Heating and Air. ]]>