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. ]]>

Spring Maintenance for Your Heating and Cooling System

Along with spring cleaning, maintenance for your heating and cooling system is a very good idea during this time of the year. Getting a tune-up helps make sure your unit is not only clean, but functioning properly for the seasons to come. If you get a professional checkup, you can feel good about your heating and cooling having everything it needs to get you through the calendar year in comfort. Homeowners can take some preventive steps to make sure their units are working to capacity, such as basic cleaning and testing. Professional service gives you that additional close look to make certain there are no problems cropping up you are unaware of, and to keep things running smoothly. The team at CJS Heating and Air is pleased to share what a heating and cooling company can do for you at this time of year in terms of maintenance.

Professional heating and cooling maintenance

Not only can professional service help keep your heating and cooling systems running right, but it can save you money, as well. If your unit is in need of any minor tweaks, it’s likely to run more efficiently afterward. Let’s take a closer look at two common maintenance tasks all heating and cooling systems should have done periodically for them to function at their best.

System tune-up
- Professional maintenance service can be considered a tune-up of sorts, where the service staff will examine the components of your unit and see if everything is working as it should. In addition, tasks such as changing the air filter and checking for leaks will be performed to make sure things are clean and ready to go when you need to dial down your temperature.
Duct cleaning service
- Duct cleaning is something many people overlook, but it’s an important part of heating and cooling maintenance. Spring can be a good time to have this done, as the temperatures are generally moderate. If you haven’t had this service performed in a while, you may want to consider it, as it can improve air quality and, in some cases, airflow, as well.
- How often you should have your air ducts clean varies. Timing can depend upon numerous factors, such as pet ownership, recent remodeling work, and family members who may have allergies. A professional service should be able to look at your ducts and let you know if you need them cleaned or not.

Stay ahead of AC repairs!

One of the best reasons to have spring maintenance service performed is that it can help prevent expensive repairs down the line. Professional inspections often catch small problems before they grow, and just as importantly, before the situation becomes an emergency. The last thing anyone wants is a nonfunctional heating or cooling unit when the temperatures are very cold…or very hot. Be aware that companies typically get busy at the beginning of each summer and winter season as people turn their units on for the first time and have issues with their systems. If you’re considering spring maintenance for your heating and cooling system, be sure to schedule an appointment early, before the weather heats up. Contact CJS Heating and Air for spring maintenance!]]>

Cost of Keeping an Old Heating & Cooling System

The decision to replace your old heating or cooling system is not an easy one. The sticker shock alone is enough to make anyone think twice about upgrading. Your heating and cooling systems may be over 10 years old, but they still work just fine, so why spend the money? Then, the inevitable happens. It’s mid-January and your heating system decides to call it quits. You immediately call out a technician and they give you a rundown of your options: repair or replace. The repair is less expensive than the replacement, so you may be inclined to go with Option Number 1, but take a look at some of these potential costs of keeping your old heating or cooling system before you make a final decision.

The safety of you and your family

Materials have a tendency to break down over time, even if you take pristine care of your heating and cooling systems. Repairing old systems with new parts is not always a good idea. For example, if your 15-year-old furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, poisonous carbon monoxide gas could work its way into your air supply. You could try replacing the heat exchanger, but repairing the core of an older system that includes a lot of other components that are likely to fail or leak within a few years is a risky gamble. In this case, investing in a new furnace will actually protect your family from harm.

Your utility bills

Recent advances in technology have drastically improved the energy efficiency of heating and cooling systems. Before repairing your old system, you should find out its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) number. This number measures the percentage of fuel that is converted to heat rather than being lost through inefficiencies. A 20-year-old system may only have an AFUE of 70%. The minimum AFUE number today is 80%, which means that replacing your old system with a new one will burn 10% less fuel and save you up to 10% on your energy bills. There are systems that have AFUE numbers of up to 97%, so your new high-efficiency model may end up paying for itself.

Maintenance and repairs

It’s no secret that older heating and air conditioning systems will likely require more repairs. The average lifespan for a forced-air furnace system is 10 to 20 years while an air conditioner usually lasts 10 to 15 years. If you are constantly calling out technicians to tweak or repair your heating or air-conditioning unit, you have probably spent more than the replacement cost would have been. A general guideline to follow when it comes to repairing vs replacement: consider replacement if the equipment is beyond three-quarters of its life expectancy and repairs will cost more than one-tenth of the replacement cost. Keeping your old air conditioning or heating system may save you money in the short run, but you will most likely end up spending a lot more in the long haul. For accurate inspections and honest efficiency assessments, contact CJS Heating and Air today! Set up a professional inspection for your current system by calling (614) 388-9241 today!]]>

Spotlight On CJS Emergency Services

Are you facing a broken furnace or air conditioning unit in Dayton, OH and need repairs right away? If so, then look no further than CJS Heating & Air. Our clean, screened, trained, and timely techs offer excellent service and air conditioning repairs. When you have an emergency, don’t hesitate to call.

Emergency Services

A heating or cooling breakdown that occurs during extreme weather should be addressed as soon as possible to help ensure your family’s comfort and health. Also, refrigerant leaks, gas issues, and electrical problems can be hazardous if handled by someone who is inexperienced, so these repairs should be left to professionals. Finally, any AC issue that causes water leaks or flooding should be fixed immediately to help prevent water damage and mold.

24 Hour Emergency Service, No Added Fees

CJS Heating & Air offers 24/7 emergency services for no additional cost. There’s never any added charges if your scheduled appointment runs past business hours, or if you require emergency service after-hours or on the weekend. We know cooling and heating emergencies can occur at any time, so we take quick action to provide our customers with emergency service for air conditioning and heating breakdowns.