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When your air conditioning unit isn’t working, as you would expect it to work, there is a chance that there may be a Freon leak in the system. Freon, or refrigerant, is a vital component of your AC unit because it is responsible for cooling the air and keeping you comfortable in the scorching summer heat. When it escapes due to a leak, the efficiency of the AC system decreases, and it won’t be able to produce the needed temperatures as effectively. Furthermore, refrigerant fluid is highly toxic and can harm the environment. In this guide, we will walk you through detecting a Freon leak in your AC unit.

Detecting a Freon Leak

To detect a freon leak, you will need some of the tools and equipment listed below. Review this list and gather your equipment before moving on to the next step.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Electronic leak detector
UV Dye and UV light
Soap and water solution
Safety goggles
Gloves
Respirator mask
Protective clothing
Replacement refrigerant
Recharging kit

Visual Detection

A visual inspection, initial step, and identifying a Freon leak. Examine the AC unit, looking for any visible signs of damage or corrosion on the refrigerant lines and components. Then, pay close attention to the connectors, valves, and joints.

If you notice oil, stains, or residue around these areas, it can indicate a leak. However, this leak may not always reveal small or hidden leaks, so you must complement it with other detection techniques.

Using a Leak Detector

Another option that you could try is using an electronic leak detector. Electronic leak detectors are highly efficient tools designed to sense the presence of refrigerant in the air. These detectors are sensitive to even small concentrations of Freon, making them a reliable source of information when a refrigerant fluid leak is a concern.

To use this method, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and sweep the detector around potential leak points. of information when a refrigerant fluid leak is a concern.

Soap and Water Solution Method

A more cost-effective and straightforward approach to identifying a Freon. Leak is done by using a mix of soap and water. Makes the solution of Soko with water and applies it to suspected areas. If there is a leak, the escaping Freon will create bubbles in the soapy water, making that leak visible. While this method is less precise than electronic detectors or UV dye, it can be helpful in some situations.

Signs and Symptoms of a Freon Leak

Now that we know how to detect a leak, it is also essential to know when a leak may be occurring in the first place. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a potential refrigerant fluid leak will help determine if you need to investigate the matter. Below are some of the most common signs that there may be a Freon leak in your home.

Freon Leak Smell

Freon has a distinct, sweet odor. If you detect an unusual smell around your AC unit, it could indicate a leak.

Reduced Cooling Efficiency

A Freon leak leads to a decrease in cooling capacity. If you feel like your AC has been running all day to no avail, there may be a problem with Freon levels within the system.

Ice on the Evaporator Coil

Excessive ice buildup on the evaporator coil can indicate if we all leak and reduce airflow.

Increased Energy Bills

Freon leaks force your AC system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and causing energy bills to skyrocket.

Call Universal Air & Heat For Professional and Prompt Repairs

Freon leaks are severe issues and must be kit handled with care. Contact Universal Air & Heat today for professional and prompt service repairs for your AC system. Freon leaks are serious issues in must be kit handled with care. Contact Universal Air & Heat today for professional and prompt service repairs for your AC system.

If you have a central air conditioner in your home then its work is made possible with a good ductwork system. Thanks to the ductwork system, your home will get the heating and cooling temperatures consistently throughout the house. Because it is closely connected to the indoor air quality of the home, the ductwork must be maintained in the best condition possible. As the leading HVAC service experts in the region, we will provide a brief overview of aging ductwork that indicates needed ductwork services.

When to Seek Out Ductwork HVAC Services

Visible Damage

Over time, ductwork develops signs of damage such as cracks, holes, or disconnected segments. If you notice these issues, it is a clear sign that your ductwork is aging and in need of repair or replacement.

Airflow Issues

When the airflow in your home is uneven or reduced, there may be an issue with the ductwork deteriorating. Older ducts develop leaks and obstructions that slow down the smooth flow of air.

Increased Energy Bills

The ductwork that is in poor condition leads to high energy bills. When you notice that your energy bills have increased, you must contact ductwork HVAC services for a proper assessment and repair.

Increased energy bills are also a sign of:

Clogged air filters
Leaky refrigerant fluid
Broken blow motor
AC compressor issues

Regardless of the issue, you must have your AC inspected to understand the root of the problem.

Inconsistent Temperatures

Rooms that are too hot or too cold compared to the thermostat setting might indicate that your ductwork isn’t distributing air properly. Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can lead to temperature inconsistencies throughout your home.

Dust and Debris

Sometimes ductwork accumulates large amounts of dust, debris, and mold. For this reason, it is important to contact the local ductwork cleaning services to ensure that your indoor air quality is at its best.

Strange Odors

If you start to pick up foul or musty odors coming from the vents, this could also be a sign that your ductwork is ready for a cleaning service. Neglected ductwork can quickly lead to poor health symptoms and bigger problems down the road.

Condensation or Leaks

Sometimes moisture or water collects around the ducts, which is a sign of poor insulation in the home. This problem is often hard to spot because ductwork is normally hidden. Therefore, do your best to keep regular HVAC maintenance checks that ensure the health of your ductwork.

Age of the Home

Are you living in an older home? Chances are that some of the ductwork maintenance or replacement has been put off, leading to increasing problems with the air conditioning unit and the indoor air quality. We recommend consulting ductwork installation services to see about getting any necessary repairs or even a replacement scheduled.

FAQ: Ductwork Services

What is a common mistake in ductwork installation services?

One of the biggest mistakes we often see in ductwork installation is improper sealing practices. This mistake leads to poor efficiency because air seeps out of the cracks that weren’t sealed. As a result, energy bills increase, and the overall air conditioning unit will wear out quickly.

How often should I hire ductwork cleaning services near me?

Duct cleaning doesn’t need to occur all too often! Every 3 to 5 years is sufficient enough to ensure that your air ducts are cleaned. If you recently moved into your new home, we recommend having the air ducts cleaned before taking up residency as this will give you a clean slate and optimal air quality.

What is the lifespan of HVAC ductwork?

Ductwork is built to last about 10-15 years. The older the ductwork is, the more issues it has such as increased pests, gaps, and drafts. If you notice any of these issues in your home, consider contacting the local ductwork installation company to see about a potential replacement.

Call Universal Air & Heat Today

How is your ductwork doing? Reach out to Universal Air & Heat today to set up your ductwork HVAC services and ensure that your home is getting the best air and AC function. With our expert techs, your AC needs will be taken care of at the highest quality.

Air conditioning units are complex units that are made up of various components that come together to cool or heat a home. It is important that you know about these various parts and their roles so that you are prepared to care properly for your AC. In this blog, we will highlight the main components that make up an air conditioning unit and discuss the roles they play in making your home comfortable.

The Main Parts of the AC Unit and Their Roles

The reason we want you to know the basics about the main AC parts is that this knowledge will help you recognize the signs of needed repair. When you are able to recognize the need for a repair quicker, there is a higher likelihood that you will also get a quicker repair done as well. Prompt air conditioning repairs in Pompano Beach mean that:

Your AC’s lifespan will be maximized
The energy bills will be kept at a minimum
The indoor air quality will be at the most optimal level
Enhanced comfort levels in the home
Maintain the warranty coverage

Compressor

The compressor is probably the most important part of the air conditioning unit. This unit is responsible for compressing and raising the pressure of the refrigerant gas, which allows it to release heat efficiently. The compressor circulates the refrigerant through the system.

When the compressor develops problems, the entire AC will be affected. Here are some issues to expect with an AC compressor:

Total failure due to electrical issues, mechanical problems, or lack of maintenance
Overheating due to poor lubrication, low refrigerant fluid leak, or dirty condenser coils
Refrigerant leaks
Locked compressor due to mechanical issues
Excessive vibration or noise
Contaminants in the system

Condenser

The condenser is commonly referred to as the outdoor unit of the air conditioning system. The role of the condenser is to turn the gas that it receives from the compressor into a high-pressure liquid. By doing so, it is able to release the hot indoor air into the outdoor environment.

Air conditioning repair techs in Pompano Beach repair a lot of issues with the condensing unit, including:

Fan motor failure
Refrigerant leaks
Dirty condenser coils
Bent or damaged fins
Electrical issues
Faulty capacitor
Restricted airflow

Evaporator

The evaporator is part of the indoor AC unit and is usually located in the air handler or furnace. Its role is to absorb the heat from the surrounding air in the home, allowing it to cool down.

Evaporators develop a handful of issues such as they following:

They freeze when there is a problem with airflow or refrigerant levels
They get dirty and lose their efficiency
They develop refrigerant leaks
Sometimes the coils corrode and require replacement
The blow motor may break
The drainage may become damaged
Electrical problems may develop

Each of these problems must be investigated and addressed by an air conditioning repair tech in Pompano Beach.

Expansion Valve

The expansion valve is a small device located between the condenser and the evaporator. Its primary function is to regulate the flow of the refrigerant into the evaporator. By controlling the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator, the expansion valve helps maintain the desired cooling effect.

Stuck or clogged valve
Improper refrigerant flow
Frost or ice formation
Valve sensing bulb issue
System refrigerant leaks

Air Handler

Air conditioning repair techs in Pompano Beach frequently address problems with the air handler as well. The air handler is responsible for circulating the cooled air throughout the home and when it breaks, the entire AC will break down as well.

Here are some issues we fix with this part of the unit:

Blow motor failure
Fan belt issues
Clogged air filters
Damaged or dirty coils
Ductwork issues
Electrical issues

Ductwork

If you have a central air conditioning unit then your home will be dependent on the network of ducts that allow the air to circulate throughout the entire home, providing consistent temperatures to each room. Sometimes ductwork develops cracks or gaps that have to be sealed and repaired. Ductwork must also be cleaned periodically to ensure that your home receives clean air.

Thermostat

Finally, the air conditioning unit cannot function without a thermostat which is responsible for regulating the temperatures in the home. Thermostats are equipped with sensors that signal the AC to work, depending on the preset temperatures on the thermostat.

Is Your AC in Need of Repair?

Air conditioning repair in Pompano Beach is of the highest quality when performed by Universal Air and Heat. Contact us today for expert and prompt repairs for your unit so that you don’t have to suffer in the heat!

If it is that time in your home to replace or install a new air conditioning unit, you are probably slowly becoming aware of the many factors that go into an installation. One of the most important considerations during this process is the location where your outdoor unit will be placed. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of choosing the best spot for your unit and provide you with the tips we use when installing AC units for our many customers.

Choose the Location Based on These Factors

Is there really a right location for your AC? Few people consider this important factor of installation but it impacts the long-term health of your unit in the following ways.

The right location of the air conditioning unit in Miami will ensure:

Optimal efficiency levels
Enhance and long-term performance
Better comfort levels
Easier maintenance services

Because these benefits are worth taking advantage of, read on to learn the things we consider before placing a unit in a specific location.

Clearance

It is important that there is enough space around the unit to promote proper airflow and maintenance. The unit must have 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides. Make sure to consult the manufacturer’s specifications as each unit has its own requirements.

Level Ground

It is also imperative that the air conditioning unit must be placed on an even, level surface. This prevents vibrations and damage, which is why many air conditioning unit techs in Miami install concrete pads prior to the unit’s installation.

Shading

Locate the unit in a spot that offers some shade during the hottest parts of the day. Direct sunlight can make the unit work harder and reduce its efficiency. However, make sure there are no overhanging branches or debris that could fall onto the unit.

Accessibility

The location of the AC unit must offer easy access for routine maintenance and repairs. Air conditioner repair techs must be able to get into the unit without having to deal with obstacles like fences or shrubs. This will ensure safe repairs and faster service.

Noise Considerations

It is not a secret that air conditioning units in Miami and everywhere else in the country create a lot of noise. The place where the unit is installed must be away from outdoor areas or bedrooms where people congregate or rest. The point of the AC is to enhance your comfort and enjoyment at home. Placing it away from common areas will help ensure that comfort.

Airflow Requirements

The place where you put your air conditioning unit must support airflow patterns. Therefore, it is important that the AC is away from obstructions that restrict air circulation. Optimal airflow ensures efficient cooling levels which will help maximize the cooling power of your AC. In Miami, where it is frequently hot, airflow is more important than ever.

Distance From Windows and Doors

It is also important to keep the unit away from windows or doors, which can conflict with the AC system. Warm air may be drawn back into the cooling system and hurt its efficiency levels by misleading the air conditioning unit’s sensors. This will make the unit work harder, increasing your energy bills and shortening the lifespan of the entire system.

Local Regulations

Another consideration that one must follow when choosing the location for their air conditioning unit is the local and state regulations. It is essential that your AC installation is in compliance with these regulations. Air conditioning technicians in Miami are trained and licensed to follow these regulations, which is why it is important to have such professionals on hand for your installation needs.

Condensate Drainage

The unit produces condensation that needs to be drained away. Ensure there is a suitable drainage system in place, such as a nearby drain or a sloping surface that directs the water away from the unit and foundation.

Leading AC Installation Services in Miami, Florida

Is your home in need of a new air conditioning unit? Contact us today to get in touch with the most seasoned and expert AC techs who will help you ensure a safe and appropriate installation of your unit.

One of the things that people think the least about is the ductwork at home. After all, it is hidden and until there is a problem with its function, ductwork is forgotten. As the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind”. However, there comes a time when every homeowner must carefully consider the condition of the ductwork in the home to ensure that it is not creating problems for the home or AC unit. In today’s blog, we will highlight the importance of air duct cleaning in Boca Raton, and how it can help you enhance the comfort and safety of your home.

Importance of Clean Ductwork

Ductwork is what makes the function of central air conditioning possible. It is a network of ducts that the air flows through to get to all of the rooms of the house. Thanks to this network, your home will be cooled or heated with consistent temperatures throughout. Here are the key functions of ductwork:

Supplies air to the home
Promotes air circulation through the AC system
Distributes air evenly
Ventilation
Air filtration
Controls humidity levels
AC noise reduction

Because of these essential functions of ductwork, keeping it clean is of the highest importance. Below we will go over some of the reasons for doing so.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Ductwork is responsible for circulating air throughout the home, which is one of the top reasons for air duct cleaning in Boca Raton. As time goes on, dust, allergens, mold spores, and other contaminants accumulate on the lining of the duct system. These pollutants will filter into the air when the AC operates, hurting the air quality in the home. When you clean your air ducts, you ensure that your home has the highest quality of air and the healthiest atmosphere for everyone.

Allergy and Asthma Relief

If you or any of your household members are prone to allergy and asthma symptoms, air duct cleaning in Boca Raton may be beneficial. Once that accumulation of dust, mites, pet dander, and other allergens is cleared out of the ductwork, the air will instantly feel cleaner. Thus those sensitivities will be reduced and you will find yourself breathing easier at home. The elimination of those triggers will greatly increase your quality of life and overall well being.

Energy Efficiency

When ductwork becomes dirty and clogged, it can hinder the efficiency of the HVAC system. The buildup of dust and debris restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder to heat or cool the space. This increased strain can lead to higher energy consumption and utility bills. Clean ductwork allows for better airflow, optimizing the performance of the HVAC system and improving energy efficiency.

Extended Equipment Lifespan

Dirty ductwork puts additional strain on the air conditioning system. It wears out the components of the AC, including its compressor, which is very expensive to fix or replace. The compressor has to work harder than necessary to push the air throughout the system, which leads to increased wear and energy consumption. As a result, you may not only end up with poor air quality but with excessive repairs and high energy bills. Now, that is a cocktail of problems that nobody wants in their home. Thus, we encourage you to invest in air duct cleaning in Boca Raton.

Odor Control

Are you picking up on odors from cooking, pets, cigarettes, and other sources throughout the house anytime the AC is working? If that is the case, it may be time to have your ductwork inspected and cleaned. These odors circulate through the home with the help of dirty ductwork, which will only resolve with a professional cleaning service.

In some cases, poor odors are a mere nuisance. In other instances, they are hazardous, particularly if they are of burnt oils or cigarette smoke. Cigarette smoke, as many of us know, is most concerning as it leads to secondhand smoking. These issues should be addressed regularly with the help of air duct cleaning in Boca Raton.

Mold Growth Prevention

Last but not least, air duct cleaning also prevents mold growth in the ductwork. Mold is very toxic and when it begins to grow, it multiplies in ductwork very quickly. Closed and dark spaces like these are very favorable for this harmful fungus to grow and bring along its damage. Boca Raton is also known for its humid climate, where mold is a common occurrence. For this reason, we recommend a regular inspection that is usually conducted during general AC maintenance visits. Keeping the ductwork clean and well-maintained reduces the likelihood of mold growth and its associated problems.

Call Us for Air Duct Cleaning in Boca Raton

Is your ductwork in need of a bit of TLC? Contact us for a professional cleaning service that will quickly enhance the quality of your indoor air and improve AC function.

One of the main components of creating a comfortable space in your home is having a suitable air conditioning unit. With so many types of AC units available on the market, each with unique features and benefits, choosing a unit can be overwhelming. However, when you take the time to research all the important factors of air conditioning installation, the process will be much easier. In this blog post, we will review some key things to remember when choosing a new air conditioning unit for your home. But first, we will help you decide whether replacing your AC is the right step at this time.

When Is It Time to Replace the AC?

So how do you know that your AC needs to be replaced? The answer depends on the unit’s signs of wear and tear. Below are some signs to look for when considering replacing your air conditioning unit.

It is Getting Old

Do you know how old your AC unit is? Typically, an AC unit is designed to last about 15-20 years, depending on the manufacturer and maintenance. The older the AC, the more problems it will begin to present. Once it reaches its maximum lifespan, it will shut down completely.

Most manufacturers have a place on their website where you can check the age of the AC with its serial number. If you can’t find it, you can ask your local air conditioning installation tech to help you.

It Breaks Down Frequently

Another reason to consider replacing your air conditioning unit is when it begins to break down more and more frequently. As the air conditioning unit ages, the typical wear and tear will lead to broken or clogged parts. You will find yourself calling a tech more often, and eventually, there will be a problem that will cause the unit to shut down completely, necessitating a replacement.

High Energy Bills

If you notice that your energy bills are skyrocketing, the old AC unit may be the culprit. As the AC ages, its efficiency will decrease. It will begin to consume more energy to produce the same temperatures, as evident in your energy bills. The longer you wait to replace the unit, the more money it will cost you in the long run.

Poor Performance

Your AC should be producing consistent temperatures throughout the home. If you feel warm in one part of the home but cold in another, the unit is likely underperforming. This is a definite sign of its old age and a need for a replacement.

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a New AC

If you’re in the process of replacing your AC, you must keep in mind the following factors as you select the new unit.

Efficiency Rates

The efficiency of air conditioners is rated by the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). Your AC’s efficiency increases with a higher SEER rating. This is good because it won’t consume as much energy, and it will save you money on monthly bills. By the way, the federal government is currently offering tax credits on air conditioning installations of units of high-tier efficiency. Read more about it on the blog.

AC Size Needed for the Home

Another critical factor to consider is the size of your home. Air conditioners do not come as one-size-fits-all and must be fitted to accommodate the square footage of your home. The technician installing the new unit will help you select the best suited for your needs.

Brand of the AC Unit

The brand of the AC will also play a significant role in the selection you make. Here are the top brands that you have to choose from:

Carrier
Daikin
Mitsubishi Electric
LG
Rheem

Budget Constraints

Your budget will also dictate the choice of your new air conditioning unit. Each type of unit is made with various features and benefits that carry its own price tag. For example, central air conditioning is pretty expensive, especially when you also have to install ductwork. Your technician will help formulate a plan for installation that is most in line with your budget.

Leading Air Conditioning Installation Services

Are you in need of a new AC for your home? Call Universal Air & Heat to learn about your options and get a top-notch installation.

The air conditioning system plays an instrumental role in each home. Given the convenience and the reprieve it provides, many people are willing to pay the money required to fund the purchase and installation of an AC in their homes.

That being said, air conditioning units are often viewed as investments due to their high price tag and many people prefer to use one unit as long as possible. Thus, many people seek ways to maintain the optimal condition of their unit and one of those ways is through Aeroseal duct sealing.

This blog will explore how Aeroseal helps extend the lifespan of the air conditioner in Miami, but first, we will briefly touch on what affects the AC’s lifespan in the first place.

Factors That Play Into AC Lifespan

The lifespan of an air conditioning unit is typically expected to be about 15-20 years, depending on the following factors:

Quality and installation of the unit
Regular maintenance that must be performed at least annually
Usage and demand habits
Environmental factors such as exposure to saltwater, corrosive chemicals, air quality
Proper sizing
Manufacturer and warranty

How Can Aeroseal Help With the HVAC’s Lifespan?

So how can Aeroseal help improve the factors affecting the lifespan of the HVAC unit? Aeroseal duct sealing uses a special aerosol chemical that expands after application, sealing cracks in a stronger and more effective way. When your ductwork is treated with Aeroseal, it will have less than 2% air leakage, which is fairly impressive when compared to the 10% leakage achieved by other treatments. Here’s how these numbers ensure a longer lifespan for your AC.

Reduce Energy Loss

When there is less air leakage through the ductwork, the AC won’t lose as much energy which allows it to be more efficient. Air leaks cause inconsistent temperatures, leading to the AC working harder than necessary to create the temperatures set forth on the thermostat. This problem increases energy bills and wears the unit out faster. The effective sealant provided by Aeroseal is known to help reduce energy consumption, which allows the unit to work more efficiently. As a result, your air conditioner in Miami works smoother and lasts longer in the home.

Improved Airflow

Leaky ducts hurt the airflow of the air conditioning system, causing the air to leak out in spots where it is least likely expected. As a result, your home will not be as comfortable. The temperatures will not cool or warm as needed, creating a lot of frustration and excess energy bills. Poor airflow is very difficult on the AC’s compressor, which will work under strain to cool or warm the house appropriately. As a result, the unit will wear out faster and will require an earlier replacement.

Reduced Dust and Indoor Air Quality Improvement

As we mentioned above, external factors such as the environment around the AC unit, play a big role in its lifespan. Any excess amounts of dust and poor air quality wear heavily on the unit because these factors prevent smooth air and refrigerant flow.

Dust is a big problem with leaky air ducts. When air seeps through the cracks in the ductwork system, it usually brings with itself unfiltered dust and other particles that will cause a stuffy atmosphere. Not only will this cause great discomfort and even poor health outcomes, but it will also hinder the unit’s performance. The effectiveness of Aeroseal will help improve system performance by minimizing the amount of dust and dirt around and within the AC unit.

Decreased HVAC Maintenance Needs

HVAC systems with leaky ducts often require more frequent maintenance to compensate for the reduced efficiency. By sealing the leaks, Aeroseal helps restore the system’s efficiency, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs. This can save on maintenance costs and improve the system’s overall longevity.

Top Air Conditioner Techs in Miami

Have you considered Aeroseal for your home? Contact Universal Air & Heat to learn how this service will benefit your home. Call us today at (813) 945-8791.

With summer just around the corner, it is time for us to prepare our air conditioning units for another season of hot temperatures in Florida. By taking a few of the preparation steps outlined in this blog, you will be able to enjoy your home to the fullest when it is hot and muggy outside. Read on to learn about the simple maintenance steps each homeowner should take, from changing the AC’s air filters to scheduling duct cleaning services in Pompano Beach; you can make your home a comfortable haven this summer.

Is Your AC Ready for the Summer Heat?

In Florida, air conditioning units are used year-round since the temperatures are relatively warm throughout the seasons. However, it gets especially hot and muggy during the summer months. As a result, we recommend that Florida residents ensure their AC is maintained at least once per season. Doing so, you will experience the following benefits:

Improved energy efficiency
Extended lifespan of the AC
Improved indoor air quality
Enhanced comfort
Savings on energy bills and future repairs
A safer air conditioning system

Change the Air Filters

As you prepare for the summer, the first thing you should do is change the air filters in your home. Air filters are essential for cleaning the air that travels through the ducts. They often accumulate debris and dust, which will eventually decrease the airflow and hurt the indoor air quality. If it seems like your air filters are getting clogged too frequently, it may be time to consider hiring duct cleaning services in Pompano Beach. Dirty ducts will always lead to dirty air filters.

Test the Thermostat

The thermostat gets a lot of wear and tear as it works to regulate the temperatures of your home. We recommend taking the time to clean it of any dust and testing it to ensure it is functioning correctly. If you use a manual thermostat, you may need to change the batteries to prevent system interruptions. We find that thermostat batteries die during the hottest days, and by changing them ahead of time, you can avoid that problem altogether.

Test Your Indoor Air Quality

The indoor air quality at home is especially important in the tropical Florida climate. Your home must be prepared to provide the reprieve you need from the hot humidity. The air inside the home must be clean and balanced for the right amount of comfort. When you have your indoor air quality (IAQ) tested, you will know what pollutants are present and in what amount. Most IAQ tests will identify the following pollutants inside the home:

Particulate matter
Volatile organic compounds
Carbon monoxide
Radon
Mold and bacteria
Formaldehyde

Upon receiving these results, your air conditioning repair tech may recommend one of the following options for improving your air quality:

Improve ventilation by installing ventilation equipment
Schedule regular maintenance
Perform duct cleaning services offered in Pompano Beach
Retest the air quality once more

Clean the Area Around the Condenser

Another preparatory step that you should take before the summer arrives is to clean the area around your outdoor AC unit, also known as the condenser. Make sure that all toys, outdoor equipment, plants, and other items are cleaned and stored at least two feet away from the unit. Doing so will ensure the efficient operation of your unit. If anything gets trapped within the fins and coils of the unit, the AC will have a hard time operating, and its efficiency levels will drop. Thus, it is essential to keep the area clean.

Schedule Duct Cleaning Services in Pompano Beach

Finally, we encourage you to clean your ducts to ensure that your AC works as efficiently as possible and that your family enjoys clean air. There are many benefits of duct cleaning, including:

Improved indoor air quality
Increased energy efficiency
Prolonged lifespan of your AC unit
Elimination of unpleasant odors
Improved airflow

All of these benefits are worth the investment in this cleaning service.
Call Universal Air & Heat today to learn more about duct cleaning and schedule your visit. Our technicians will provide a thorough assessment of your overall AC performance and indoor air quality, giving customized recommendations that will help you live your best life this summer.

Air conditioning systems are modern mechanical systems that help make the hot weather of Davie, FL, bearable. But as with anything inside the home, they eventually show signs of a needed replacement. Air conditioner service techs in Davie, FL work year-round to help residents live comfortably in their homes by repairing and replacing their air conditioning systems. In this blog, we will go over some of the top signs that an AC is coming to the end of its operation.

Do I Need A New Air Conditioning Unit?

Many homeowners ask themselves this question at least once in their lifetime. After all, unless you’re an air conditioning service expert, you won’t always know that your current AC needs replacement. As you ask yourself this question, we want you to consider the following factors about your current unit:

Age of the AC Unit

Most air conditioning units last about 15 to 20 years in a home, depending on how well they are maintained and used. As your AC approaches the 15-year mark, we recommend our customers set aside money for a future replacement. It is usually around this time that an AC unit’s normal wear and tear issues cause them to break down completely.

Rising Energy Bills

Have you noticed your energy bills gradually increasing over the past few months? The culprit of these higher costs may very well be your air conditioning unit. Its years of service will be evident in its worn-out compressor and other parts of the unit. As a result, the unit will have to work harder to keep up with the demand for heating and cooling the home. Its efficiency levels will go down and contribute to higher energy bills. This issue becomes a problem for the household budget and the environment, as the AC uses far more energy to keep running in the home.

Frequent Repairs

Does it feel like calling an air conditioning service in Davie, FL, too often? This problem is a sign that your AC is on its last legs. The older the AC gets, the more problems occur, causing more and more repairs. Eventually, the unit will be deemed beyond repair, causing you to replace it with a newer model.

Frequent repairs can also be caused by poor AC maintenance. Sometimes, all a unit needs is a bit of cleaning and adjustment to begin working smoothly again. Thus, we recommend that all homeowners keep up with annual air conditioning services in Davie, FL, which will help catch repairs early on. This will help extend the lifespan of the unit and prevent expensive repairs.

Poor Performance

Another sign that it is time for a new AC is when you observe its poor performance. This can come in the form of warm air coming from the unit when it is expected to cool the home. Sometimes, the AC will not produce enough air to cool the air evenly, which is often explained by leaky ductwork, a damaged blower fan, or clogged air filters.

Poor performance can also be explained by a refrigerant fluid leak, which leads to AC damage if it isn’t addressed on a timely basis. Though all these issues can be resolved, they will cause extensive damage to the compressor if they aren’t caught early. A malfunctioning compressor usually leads to an AC replacement.

Strange Noises and Odors

Old and malfunctioning air conditioning units have a way of ruining the atmosphere in the home. They create poor odors like the smell of mildew, burning dust, or stuffiness. Additionally, they tend to get louder with age, disrupting your tranquility as it works to cool and heat the home. We recommend investigating any strange noises or odors from your air conditioning unit.

Leading Air Conditioner Service in Davie, FL

Has your AC begun to show any of the above-mentioned signs of age? If so, contact Universal Air & Heat for a professional AC replacement today. Our technicians will help you determine if upgrading your unit is the right step for your home. Our experts will guide you in the selection process of a new unit and handle the installation with the utmost care. Give us a call at (813) 859-6524.

Are you constantly having to adjust the temperatures in your home to get them to the right, comfortable level? Maybe you’re hopelessly watching your energy bills climb without knowing how to fix the situation. Perhaps upgrading to a smart thermostat can help with these issues. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of upgrading to a smart thermostat and break down the features of some of the leading thermostats in the industry.

Benefits of a Smart Thermostat

Does a smart thermostat really make that big of a difference? Whether you go with the Evolution Connex Thermostat or a different brand, you can reap many benefits ranging from energy savings to the convenience they provide; smart thermostats are true lifesavers for homeowners.

Energy Savings

Smart thermostats work intuitively based on your schedule and pre-set preferences. They adjust temperature automatically, depending on whether you’re home or not, and what the current temperatures are in the house. As a result, you won’t ever have to worry about forgetting to turn it off as you rush out the door in the morning or after you go to bed at the end of the day.

Convenience

Who doesn’t love the convenience of controlling things with an app? Most smart thermostats, like the Evolution Connex or the Carrier communicating thermostat, have WiFi built into them and are synced with an app. This will allow you to have full control of your AC without ever having to get up to adjust the thermostat. You can also make these adjustments when you’re not home, giving you peace of mind and full control of your home.

Integration with Other Smart Devices

Smart thermostats can integrate with other smart devices in your home, such as smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or smart locks. This allows you to control your thermostat with voice commands or automatically adjust the temperature when you lock or unlock your front door.

Environmental Benefits

Your upgrade to a smart thermostat will reduce your home’s energy consumption. As a result, you will be able to have a better impact on the environment. This one simple upgrade can help ensure that our future generations live on a clean and healthy planet.

Cost Effective

It is not a secret that smart thermostats are fairly expensive to purchase. However, because they help cut down energy costs, they become cost-effective over time. In fact, some utility companies even offer rebates or incentives for homeowners who upgrade to smart thermostats.

Evolution Connex Thermostat

This thermostat is from the Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems. It is compatible with all the other Evolution products, easy to use, and a very convenient thermostat that offers the following features:

Wi-Fi remote access
Humidity control
Smart home compatible
Remote sensors

Carrier Communicating Thermostat

Carrier offers a handful of communicating thermostats that communicate and operate on voice recognition. Below are the four thermostats to choose from and their features:

Infinity System Control

Infinity system compatible
Energy saving intelligence
Remote access
Touch-n-go scheduling
Smart home compatible
Zoning control
10-year warranty

Ecobee3 Lite Pro

Energy saving intelligence
Remote access
Smart home compatible
5-year warranty

Ecobee Smart Thermostat with Voice Control

Energy saving intelligence
Air quality monitoring
Remote access
Smart home compatible
Voice control
Stream music

Smart Sensor for Infinity Zoning Systems

Infinity system compatible
Energy saving intelligence
Remote access
Touch-n-go scheduling
10-year warranty

Rheem Communicating Thermostat

Rheem also offers a great smart thermostat called the EcoNet Smart Thermostat which also offers a variety of benefits for the homeowner:

Works with Alexa
Works with Google Assistant
Integrates with other smart Rheem products
Control from anywhere
Voice control
Local weather forecast

This thermostat is dynamic and very intuitive. Its many features will provide you with comfort, energy savings, and easy use.

Upgrade Your Thermostat Today!

Have you upgraded to a thermostat yet? Their benefits are too good to pass up. Contact Universal Air & Heat to learn more about the smart thermostats available for your home. Our technicians will help you choose the one that is right for your household’s needs. Call us at (813) 945-6234.