CJS Heating and AC Repair

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.  ]]>

New Year, New Heating and Cooling System?

What will 2019 bring you? Are you looking forward to a new year, are you thinking about opportunities around the corner, or perhaps a fresh start? If you’re a homeowner, you may be looking around your house with a critical eye, wondering what will need to be replaced this year. Will it be your heating and cooling system?   The short answer to that question is this: if you’ve had your heating and cooling system for twelve to fifteen years, you may be ready for a new one. Do you want a longer answer? If you have kept up with the maintenance, and you have the system serviced by a reliable heating and air company, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling system. Here are some tips to help you do that.  

  • Change the filters regularly. This is a ridiculously easy chore, and yet essential to the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Air filters that are clogged with dust and dirt can’t circulate the air properly, so a dirty filter makes your whole system work harder. This can not only raise your energy bills but also shorten the lifespan of your system.  
  • Give your system a break. When you keep your heating and cooling system working constantly, you can cause it to wear out quickly. Use ceiling fans, turn off your system if you’re going to leave the house for any length of time, and keep your thermostat at a reasonable temperature. It’s also smart to have an inspection so that you can make sure your home is well sealed and insulated, and your system is running properly.  
  • Mind the outside components. The condenser unit in your backyard is an important part of your heating and cooling system, and if it gets clogged with leaves and other debris, its performance may suffer. It’s easy to clean your condenser using a brush or low-pressure hose. Your system also has a discharge pipe that leads outside and provides drainage. If this becomes damaged, it can be expensive to fix, so keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn’t get blocked, clogged, frozen or damaged in any other way.  
  • Keep your ducts clean. Just like the filters, the ducts in your home can suffer from a buildup of dirt, dust, and debris. You can do a minor duct cleanup by yourself, using your vacuum cleaner and a brush, but that sort of maintenance only goes so far. To get the entire air duct system clean, you’ll need to enlist the help of a professional.  
  • Have your system serviced regularly. Even if you’re vigilant about keeping up with your system, it’s important to have a professional come out regularly to inspect and help maintain it. It’s smart to schedule regular maintenance at the beginning of each season.  
  • Consider an upgrade. If it is time to replace your heating and cooling system, look for an energy efficient model that will reliably work for you for many years. Choose a professional installer who stands behind their work, and will continue to maintain your system once it’s installed.  
How do you know when it’s time for a new system? If the unit is running inefficiently or unsafely, it’s time to think about replacing it. If it needs repairs several times each year, despite regular maintenance, that’s a sign that it’s wearing out. If you’ve been told that repairs will cost more than half of what it would cost you to install a new system, it’s time to go ahead and replace it.   When you’re ready to install a high-quality heating and cooling 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. ]]>

Mini-Split Ductless Systems

A great solution for hard-to-cool areas or smaller spaces, mini-split ductless systems can provide a great cooling option for your home. These great little units are gaining in popularity due to their small size and customization abilities. If you’ve ever had a hot attic office or a sunroom that doesn’t cool down easily, the mini-split can be a great solution in terms of temperature control. CJS Heating and Air is pleased to provide you with more information on these handy units.

 Why consider a mini-split system?
Mini-split systems are set up differently from traditional furnace and air conditioning equipment. They are easy to zone, and are typically much quieter and smaller than other systems. In addition, they don’t require all the equipment that other units need to transport cool air from one place to another. Many people select these units for supplemental heating, or to provide multi-zoned heating throughout a living space.
Ductless setup
A mini split system does not have ducting like other heating and air conditioning units. Instead, the units are mounted with the inside piece directly on the other side of the condenser unit, which is located outside. This eliminates the need for ductwork throughout the house, and it is controlled in a similar manner to regular heating and air conditioning systems. Professional installation is recommended.
Mini-split zones
A mini-split system provides solutions for many different spaces in your home. These versatile units allow for perfect customization, and can be a terrific solution for homes with areas that are difficult to cool—or with people who just aren’t on the same temperature wavelength! Mini-splits are set up on a zone system, so that you can literally dial in temperatures in one area while not affecting another. This means one room can be significantly cooler than the one right next to it. You can put these systems in by floor, or by room if you like; each is independent of the other.
Mini-split savings
Besides the fact that mini-split systems are very quiet and smaller than other types of equipment, these great units are also money savers. Since they allow for zoning and custom settings, you can adjust temperatures in the areas you won’t be using and save yourself money! Also, the mini-split systems are small, so they typically don’t require the energy that traditional units would to run—another cost saver. If you would like to consider a mini-split ductless system for your home, start by contacting a reliable heating and cooling specialist for an evaluation. They can help you spec out your home and advise you on where these units may work best for your needs. Feel free to reach out to our team in Columbus, OH, if you would like to learn more about mini-split systems, or are interested in an evaluation of your current heating or cooling units. We are always glad to be of help! Contact us for mini split installation!]]>

Difference between a Heat Pump and an AC/Furnace Combo

Heat Pump and an AC/Furnace Combo DifferenceWhether you are building a new home or trying to decide on a new heating and cooling unit, you may be wondering what the difference is between a heat pump and an AC/furnace combination unit. Each offers a similar service, but the way they are set up is a bit different. Knowing the differences between the two systems can be helpful if you are trying to decide between one or the other. The team at CJS Heating and Air has pulled together the following information for you to help outline what makes each unique.

What is a heat pump system?

A heat pump system is basically an all-in-one unit that functions as both the central heat and ac systems in your home. Heat pumps are energy efficient since they work by transferring air from one space to another. These systems are a great option for those with limited space, as they take up much less room than a furnace and air conditioning system. Both the heating and cooling functions take place within one unit in a heat pump system.

Since the heat pumps transfer air from one area to another, it’s important to make sure yours is sized properly for the space it is going to condition so that it works well. Contact a heating and cooling specialist for additional information about what type of unit will work best for your home.

What is an AC/furnace combo unit?

AC/furnace combo units are the traditional systems in most homes today. They consist of a furnace and an air conditioning unit, two separate pieces of equipment that provide heating and cooling for the interior space. Furnaces can be regular or high-efficiency models. Air conditioning units include a compressor unit that is stored outside the home.
An advantage of the AC/furnace combo unit is that, if it is sized correctly, it should have no trouble keeping up with your heating and cooling needs. The systems rely on mechanical processes to provide cool air or hot air, depending on the demand. To find out the proper sizing for your house, consult a heating and cooling company for the furnace air conditioner combo cost. They will be able to make a recommendation based on your square footage and other important factors.

Choosing your heating and cooling system

Ultimately, as with most things, which central heat and air package units you select comes down to a matter of personal preference. Much of it will depend on factors such as your budget, home size, layout, infrastructure, and desired results. Every house is different, and every household has a unique set of needs.

While a heating and cooling company can’t make the choice for you, it can help you learn more about the options you have available, and see what matches best with your current needs and lifestyle. Hopefully, we’ve helped to clear up some of the differences between the central heat and air units for you so you can make a more informed decision. Feel free to contact us in Columbus, OH, if you’d like additional information about heating and cooling systems for your home.
Contact us for heat pump or furnace installation!

Quick Tips: Replacing your Furnace and Air Conditioner

<![CDATA[Replace Furnace and Air Conditioner
Whether you’re experiencing strange noises or smells coming from your HVAC unit or your energy bills are higher than they have been in the past, there are a number of things to consider when replacing your furnace and/or air conditioner. Read on to learn about the telltale signs that you need a new furnace or air conditioner system, plus what to consider before buying and installing a new one.

Signs you may need a new furnace

If you’re wondering whether or not you need a new furnace installation, it’s likely you’ve been experiencing and noticing some of the following situations. First, you may notice your heating bill is higher than it used to be. As a furnace ages, it begins to lose its efficiency, having to work harder to produce the same amount of heat.
Second, you might be calling for frequent furnace repairs. Repeated repairs can become costly over time, and end up costing you more than installing a new furnace. If the cost of repairs is 50% or more the cost of replacement, then you should probably replace it.
Third, your home isn’t heating properly. Some areas of your home are too hot, while others are too cold. Who wants to constantly change clothes from one room to another?
Fourth, if your furnace is producing a completely yellow burner flame, then you have a serious safety concern on your hands. Your flame should be blue with a small yellow point in the center. If that’s not the case, your furnace could be producing carbon monoxide. This potentially deadly gas is odorless and colorless, which is why you should have a carbon monoxide detector within your home. Other signs of carbon monoxide include streaks of soot around your furnace, excess moisture on your windows, and excessive rusting on pipes.
Finally, if your furnace is 12 to 20 years or older, you’ll want to start shopping around for a new one. The average lifespan of a furnace is 12 to 20 years, so looking into what’s available now will help you make the right choice when it’s time for a furnace replacement.

Things you should consider before buying a new furnace

If it is time to replace your furnace, there are a few things you should consider before having one installed, including:

  • Fuel source
  • Zoning systems
  • Correct air flow requirements for proper operation of new system
  • Correct system size for efficiency, comfort and operation of new unit
  • Warranty
  • Indoor air quality
  • Energy efficiency: annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating
  • Rebates and incentives

Signs you need a new air conditioner

There are also a few signs that can indicate you need to contact your local heating and cooling professional for a new air conditioner installation. The first noticeable sign that you might need a new AC unit is if there is no cool air or limited airflow. This is likely due to a problem with the compressor.
Another point of concern is if your AC unit is making weird noises and producing unpleasant smells. Your air conditioner should function almost silently. You’ll be familiar with the common noises it might make, but as soon as you notice any differences, you should contact your HVAC professional. The same goes for any strange smells, which could mean mold or insulation damage.
Any leaks or excessive moisture are signs you need to contact an expert for repairs. The leakage could even be refrigerant that needs to be handled safely. If you continually have to call for these types of AC repairs, it’s probably time to get a new one. Continual repair costs over time can become more expensive than getting a new unit.
Finally, if your energy bills are higher than normal, your air conditioner might be working harder to produce the same amount of cooling.

What you should consider before purchasing a new AC unit

As with heating system replacements, you’ll want to consider a few things before buying and installing a new air conditioner, including:

  • Type of system: central air, ductless mini split
  • Correct air flow requirements for proper operation of new system
  • Correct system size for efficiency,  and comfort and operation of new unit
  • Location of outdoor unit
  • Variable speed air circulation
  • Warranties and guarantees
  • Incentives and rebates
  • Energy efficiency: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating

Consult an HVAC professional

The best way to determine whether you should go for furnace or AC repairs over a new HVAC installation is to speak with an experienced professional. The technicians at CJS Heating and Air have the expertise to guide you in the best direction for your comfort and your pocketbook.
For a free consultation, get in touch with our team today!]]>