A/C Maintenance Checklist for the Summer

When summer hits, you'll likely be running your air conditioning around the clock to avoid sweating it out until the temperatures drop again. The last thing you want to have to deal with in the middle of July is a broken A/C, so you should use the following maintenance checklist during spring or fall to ensure that you're prepared for the sweltering New York summer.

Change the Filters

The easiest and quickest way to diagnose and troubleshoot HVAC problems is by changing the air filters. They should be replaced at least once a month to keep your system running smoothly and energy costs low. Ensuring that your system is consistently running with unclogged filters can also help maintain healthy indoor air quality, which can impact respiratory health.

Repair or Replace Pipe Insulation

If your unit's suction pipe has damaged insulation, this can prevent the system from cooling properly. The sun, trapped freezing water, and invasive pests can all cause damage to the foam insulation. An HVAC professional should be able to effectively repair or replace any insulation materials when servicing your system.

Inspect the Outdoor Unit

The outer panels of your unit contain electrical connections that should always be protected. Before starting up your A/C for the first time after spring comes to a close, ensure that all panels are intact and free from damage. Call a qualified technician before starting your system if you've noticed any stripped or missing panels.

Remove Debris

Depending on where your unit is located on your property, vegetation and trash may be blown onto the coil, leading to blockages. Clear away debris to get the best possible performance from your A/C. Pay close attention to the base of the unit and take care not to overload the area when mulching your garden in the spring.

Rely on the professionals at Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc to provide friendly, professional service when performing installations, maintenance, or repairs on your air conditioner or furnace. We've provided Orange County residents with the best heating and cooling equipment for over 35 years. Contact us today to receive a free quote.

Why Are Air Filters Important?

Air filters fulfill a vital role in protecting your HVAC system from contaminants such as dust and debris, so homeowners need to make sure they are changed often. Learn more about what could happen if you fail to change your filter regularly, as well as how they help keep your HVAC system functioning and efficient.

How Do Air Filters Work?

Air filters are made from either spun fiberglass, pleated paper, or cloth and then embedded in a cardboard frame. They clean air that circulates through your HVAC system by trapping many types of particles that could affect your health and comfort. Significant functions of air filters include:

• Protecting the general health of occupants from lung-related infections
• Protecting children, the elderly, and those allergic to animal dander, mold spores, and pollen
• Reducing fire hazards by preventing lint and fibers from accumulating in ductworks
• Protecting household items from airborne dust
• Extending the shelf-life of perishable products by removing airborne mold

MERV Ratings and Filter Efficiency

Both air filter efficiency and performance are represented by the filter’s Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, otherwise known as its MERV, ranging from 1 to 16. Lower MERV ratings imply that the filter is a standard model with basic to good filtration, usually at a lower cost and intended for residential buildings. A higher MERV indicates a higher-quality filter made to capture very small particles up to 0.3 microns. However, filters with higher MERV ratings tend to be thicker, so they can sometimes reduce heating or cooling effectiveness and possibly damage the HVAC system.

How Do I Maintain My Filter

Regular maintenance such as checking and changing air filters ensures cleaner air and reduces energy costs in your home. You should change air filters at least once a month, especially in larger homes or homes with pets. Enlisting a professional is an easy way to ensure that your system is maintained accurately.

Having a professional check the state of your HVAC system can increase its lifespan, and at Larson’s Heating & Cooling, Inc, we have over 35 years of experience in HVAC maintenance in Middletown, NY. Whether you have a ductless system, heat pump, or furnace, we can make sure your system is running efficiently. Contact us to schedule services for your heating or cooling system.

Four Reasons Your Shower Runs Out of Hot Water

Nothing is more frustrating than a shower running out of hot water in the middle of a bath. If this problem recurs, homeowners should diagnose and correct the problem to avoid further inconveniences. Here are some of the possible reasons a shower will run out of hot water.

Sediment Build-Up

The water flowing into the water heater has some natural minerals and sediment. With time, the sediment sinks and settles at the bottom of the tank. This material takes up space meant for hot water, and sediment can be a major factor in water heaters having a poor performance. A certified technician should check the tank and flush it for optimal performance.

Heating Element Problems

The lower heating element in a water heater does most of the work. It heats the water at the bottom before the water rises to the top, and if this element gets damaged, there’s a risk of a shower running cold. Some of the causes of damage to the lower heating element include sediment buildup, a faulty thermostat, or an electric short in the element’s wiring. The homeowner should hire an experienced technician to diagnose, repair, or replace the faulty heating element.

Broken Dip Tube

A dip tube pushes the incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. Once the cold water heats up, it rises to the top, and the dip tube pushes cold water back down. If this critical process breaks down, less cold water flows to the bottom, which, in turn, reduces the amount of hot water available for the home. A broken dip tube should be repaired or replaced by an experienced contractor, depending on its condition.

A Small Water Heater

As a family grows, the demand for hot water also goes up, and this strains the water heater system. The homeowner should audit the home’s hot water needs and upgrade the tank if necessary. Every water heater in the market has a corresponding estimate of the number of people it can serve. If the demand for hot water has outgrown the tank, it's time for a replacement.

Running out of cold water is frustrating, but we can help you avoid this problem. Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc is an expert in heating and cooling solutions, serving Middletown, NY and the surrounding neighborhoods for over 35 years. For comprehensive professional water heater services including installation, repairs, parts, and inspections, contact us on 845-344-3030 today for a free, no-obligation estimate.

Pros and Cons of Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters

When homeowners need a new water heater, the choice comes down to an electric water heater or a gas water heater. Buyers may initially see only the cost, but energy efficiency, recovery rate, and electronics and components are all factors to consider when comparing the options.

Gas Water Heaters

With gas, the initial cost is not as much of a mitigating factor. Because gas water heaters utilize powerful burners that heat water more quickly and the cost of gas is generally less than the cost of electricity, gas water heaters are the cheaper choice of the two in the short term. When it comes to energy efficiency, the cost of gas water heaters is somewhat hard to pin down. Some gas heaters meet the Energy Star standard, but others fall short. Gas water heaters can typically double the recovery rate of electric water heaters, which means that they can usually heat more water faster. Gas heaters typically have more advanced smart electronics that can notify users of operating status and repair needs. To operate, gas units require the following components: connection to a gas line, a gas control valve, a burner with a combustion chamber, a pilot light, a thermocouple, and a venting system.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters present a more expensive entry price, but they offer the flexibility of placement within the home. In terms of maintenance, electric water heaters are easier to maintain because they are less complicated than gas heaters. Conventional electric water heaters are not Energy Star approved, though there is a specialized model type using heat pumps that costs more. Electric water heaters have heating power ranging in wattage from 1,440 to 5,500. Electric heaters do not utilize the smart technology that gas heaters do. Perhaps the biggest difference between the two, electric water heaters require only heating elements and thermostats to heat the water.

At Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc, we understand the importance of a quality water heater in the grand scheme of your home or business. Wherever you land on the gas vs. electric debate, Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc will offer reliable, friendly installation and service. Contact us online or call us at 845-344-3030 for your heating and cooling needs.

Planning Ahead: How to Winterize Your Central Air Conditioner

After the hot months of summer, fall weather comes as a great relief for homeowners. In the excitement, many homeowners end up forgetting a crucial chore: winterizing the outdoor AC unit. Winters in New York can be harsh, and the HVAC unit has to withstand the cold, precipitation, snow, and ice.

Importance of Winterizing an Outdoor AC Unit

Winterization safeguards a central air conditioner from the elements to prevent rust, physical damage, and to keep it in perfect working condition throughout the cold season. It also prevents critters from nesting inside the unit, as this could lead to mechanical damage. HVAC manufacturers provide maintenance instructions for their products, which come handy for winterization. Following these instructions protects the manufacturer’s warranty and helps keep the unit in good condition.

Early fall is the ideal time for AC winterization since the weather is beautiful for working outdoors. The AC unit can also air-dry completely after being cleaned in this weather. For the process, a homeowner needs a fitted plastic or vinyl cover, bungee cords or vinyl rope, foam pipe covers, and duct tape. Here are the steps to follow for winterizing a central air conditioner.

Switching Off the HVAC Unit

The first step is to turn off the HVAC unit to prevent it from turning on automatically on warmer days. When this happens, water gets into the coils and freezes when temperatures fall causing rust and corrosion.

Washing the Air Conditioner

Homeowners should use a garden hose to clean and rinse the unit, removing dirt, dust, bugs, leaves, grass clippings, and other unwanted materials. The unit should dry completely before the next step.

Insulation

The exposed piping should be protected against the harsh winter weather. Installing foam pipe covers insulates the pipes and helps protect them from freezing.

Wrapping the AC Unit

Wrapping the AC unit using fitted waterproof plastic, a vinyl cover, or a specialized winterization cover offers maximum winter protection. To secure the protective cover, wrap vinyl ropes or bungee cords around the unit. Ensure that the unit is completely secured, as a loose covering can trap moisture and cause rust.

Winterizing Heat Pumps

If the outdoor unit is a heat pump and not solely an air conditioner with a separate indoor furnace, homeowners must turn the power back on after the unit has completely dried and keep the side vents and exhaust fan uncovered.

Regular Monitoring

The HVAC unit should not be forgotten after winterization. Regular monitoring is necessary to remove debris, snow, and water, and to secure the cover.

For the most reliable HVAC installation and servicing in Middletown, NY and the surrounding areas, Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc is your one-stop-shop. With over 35 years in the industry, we have the resources and expertise to install or repair your HVAC system to keep you and your family comfortable year-round. Contact us today at 845-344-3030 for a free estimate.

Heat Pump Repair: Four Signs Service May Be Necessary

Heat pumps can save homeowners a lot of money on heating and cooling, but only if they're working efficiently. Certain signs indicate that heat pump repair may be necessary to keep equipment running as intended and increase its longevity.

Reduced Heating or Cooling

Some homeowners have noticed that their heat pumps seemed to be producing cooler temperatures the previous summer or that it's become more difficult to keep their houses warm in the winter. This problem shouldn't be ignored; potential causes include compressor malfunction, refrigerant leaks, or a heat pump that has reached the end of its lifespan.

Odd or Excessive Noises

While occasional noises inside the home are common due to the metal in ductwork expanding or contracting, regularly occurring odd noises from the unit itself may signify a problem that requires heat pump repair. Abnormal noises may include frequent rattling, humming, groaning, whistling, or popping.

Increased Electric Bills

Even if no other signs are evident, one of the first things that indicates a larger problem that may require heat pump repair is a sudden increase in electric bills. When the system works overtime to try to compensate for its malfunction, it uses more electricity, thus leading to higher bills. This may also be noticed in conjunction with reduced heating and cooling capacity.

Short Cycling

Low levels of refrigerant in an air pump can cause the system to work harder and sometimes overheat, which leads to short cycling. If a heat pump switches on and off too frequently, it likely needs repair.

Investing in a heat pump for your Orange County home is an efficient and eco-friendly choice that can help keep your family comfortable and your costs low. However, it's important to maintain it properly to ensure you're reaping the benefits. If you've noticed signs that you may be in need of heat pump repair, contact Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc. today at 845-344-3030 for a free estimate.

HVAC Considerations When Buying a Home

When buying a new home, most people focus on location, curb appeal, and square footage. While a home's HVAC system may not be high on everyone's list of things to worry about when buying a home, there are good reasons why HVAC considerations should factor into the decision. Asking the right questions before the purchase can save homebuyers a bundle down the road. Here are a few things everyone should think about before purchasing a home.

Age and Upkeep

The easiest way for a homeowner to understand what kind of HVAC system they may be agreeing to purchase is to ask how old the system is and whether any major repairs or maintenance have been required. ACs and heating pumps generally need to be replaced every 10 years, while furnaces should be swapped out every 15. Regular maintenance can extend these timelines, so it's also important to ask if the HVAC components received annual (at least) servicing by a professional.

Utility Bills

It's also recommended that prospective buyers request a copy of the home's utility bills. Heating and cooling account for roughly half of the average home's utility costs, so checking the bills to make sure they aren't unusually high is a good way to make sure the heating and cooling systems are working as efficiently as possible.

Comfort in Every Room

Prospective buyers should pay attention to the air temperature and flow in every room as they tour a house. If some rooms feel stuffy or drafty, this could be a sign of a problem with the HVAC ducting. While this could be a simple fix, it may be a sign of leaking or poor insulation, which can end up costing buyers money each month.

Whatever problems your HVAC system throws at you, Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc has you covered. We are your local heating and cooling experts and can handle everything from small fixes to whole furnace replacements. Keep your home comfortable year-round with HVAC services from Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc. Call 845-344-3030 today for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Ways to Extend the Life of Your Furnace

Even the highest-quality appliances don’t last forever, and eventually, every furnace or air conditioner reaches the end of its life. There are a few factors that determine the longevity of a furnace, and understanding them can help homeowners avoid replacing the unit sooner than necessary.

Change the Filter Regularly 

A dirty filter restricts airflow into the system, causing it to work overtime to produce the same amount of heat. Overheating reduces the life of the heat exchanger and could lead to a breakdown. Between yearly preventative maintenance appointments, homeowners should change their filters every one to two months, or according to the manufacturer’s specifications. A clean air filter makes for a healthy HVAC system.

Keep Coils Clean

Units with the air conditioning system and coil on top of the furnace should always have a clean coil to increase the lifespan of both the furnace and the coil itself. A clean coil prevents the drain from plugging and leaking condensation on the furnace beneath it. Failing to keep the coil clean can lead to rust and corrosion on the heat exchanger and damage to the system’s electrical components.

Reduce Moisture Levels

It isn’t just leaking condensation that can cause the heat exchanger to rust or corrode; high moisture levels are also a threat. High moisture levels are prevalent during humid weather and in homes with too much indoor humidity. A dehumidifier can help prevent that buildup of moisture and extend the life of the furnace.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

During a yearly service appointment, a professional technician will inspect the system to ensure it’s operating according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and detect any potential issues with the heat exchanger, venting system, chimney, and other components. The technician will also check for carbon monoxide leaks, dirty ducts, and other issues that could cause health problems. Scheduling this appointment in the fall ensures the furnace can handle those sub-freezing winter temperatures. 

HVAC systems are costly to replace, even with financing, but taking proper care of yours will extend its life as long as possible. Larson’s Heating & Cooling, Inc has been providing HVAC services to Middletown, NY families for 35 years. Let us handle all your heating installation, service, and repair needs in preparation for the season. Contact us online or call 845-344-3030 today to schedule a preventative maintenance appointment.

Homebuyer's Guide to Inspecting an HVAC System

When shopping for a new home, buyers often worry that something will break as soon as they receive the keys—which is why the professional inspection is so important. However, there are a few things potential buyers should look for to know the condition of their new HVAC system.

Do a Quick Visual Inspection 

When considering a house, buyers are usually most focused on the practical aspects, such as the layout of the kitchen or the number of bedrooms. As with many things, the HVAC system can be out of sight and out of mind—making it the last thing most people think about. Taking a peek at the system won’t give the buyer too much information, but it may be a good way to raise a few initial red flags if needed, especially if there are any signs of age or unusual noises. An older system will need replacement sooner and will likely lack the energy efficiency of newer ones, while unusual noises could indicate a serious problem within the system. These are concerns to raise during the professional inspection.

Note the Energy Label

While giving the heating and cooling equipment a quick once-over, the buyer should look for the yellow energy label, which lists the unit’s energy efficiency and operating costs as compared to similar units. Boilers and furnaces also show ratings based on several factors, including annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). The most important thing to note here is that the rating assumes the unit is brand new, and unless it was properly maintained, it’s probably not as efficient as it states, which is something to consider as you think about your comfort in a new home.

Look for Clues

Buyers can ask the seller directly about any past maintenance work, repairs made to the system, and existing warranties, but sometimes clues are visible around the units. Often, repair technicians leave tickets attached to or near the unit to show when they’ve serviced it, noting the date and what service was performed. If it appears that the machine has had frequent repairs, especially in areas like the compressor or blower motor, then the unit may be getting close to its operational age limit.

If you live in or around Middletown and have encountered issues with your HVAC system in a newly purchased home, or if you’re selling and want to replace the system with a different HVAC product, Larson’s Heating & Cooling, Inc can repair or replace your unit at a fair price, with financing available. Give us a call at 845-344-3030 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation estimate.

Guide to HVAC for Tiny Homes

Tiny homes are a fascinating new trend that offers many environmental, financial, and minimalist benefits. But does working in such a condensed space mean changes to traditional HVAC installation? Here's a quick guide to HVAC for tiny homes.

Approved Furnaces

Tiny homes have smaller and less ductwork than conventionally sized homes. Because of the condensed space, using furnaces is a heating solution that can offer comfort to the entire home, especially for our cold New York winters. These furnaces should be approved or specially made for tiny homes. For eco-friendly tiny house owners, these furnaces can use a variety of fuel sources, including electricity, natural gas, liquid propane, and oil. However, it's important to work with a qualified HVAC contractor to ensure that the furnace is efficient and safe.

Window Air Conditioning Units

Much like tiny homes need appropriately sized furnaces, smaller window AC units are a common HVAC product that can also offer plenty of cooling power for such a small space. Many tiny house owners find it easy to retrofit their home to add an AC unit, and window units will only set owners back a few hundred dollars.

Ductless Mini-splits

Mini-splits are a popular choice for many tiny house owners, as they are compact, easy to work into any minimalist's aesthetics, and don't require a home duct system. These units work much like HVAC systems for larger properties: they feature external condensers with fans running on the inside. For this reason, these ductless units are often very quiet, which is another plus for those living in small spaces. For those with tiny homes that have internal HVAC systems, mini-splits' pipes can also be run through the walls.

Roof Vent Fans

For those living in an especially small tiny home, a full HVAC system may not even be necessary. Heat naturally rises, and many tiny house owners find success by installing venting fans through a small hole cut into the roof. These fans use minimal power and are a common feature in many RVs. The only concern with roof vent fans is that if they aren't installed and sealed properly, they can result in leaks.

Desk and Ceiling Fans

Finally, a popular and budget-friendly option with many tiny house owners use is simply to use small desk or ceiling fans to keep air circulating. With a little trial and error, it’s possible to find the ideal placement where these fans will pack the most punch. There's one major disadvantage standalone fans have versus other cooling solutions, though: they can often take up quite a bit of space, which may already be in short supply.

Owning a tiny home is all about cutting back, but it doesn't mean cutting back on comfort. If you're interested in learning more about HVAC solutions for a tiny (or standard sized) home, or if you just need a repair, call Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc at 845-344-3030 today!

Tips for Setting the Thermostat to Save Costs on Energy Bills

Everyone wants to save money on their energy bills, but searing summers and frigid winters can drive the costs of heating and cooling to extremes. Fortunately, there are some simple ways that homeowners can control their energy bills throughout the seasons.

Manage the Thermostat at Home and When Away 

During the summer, set the thermostat to 78 degrees. If the residence is vacant for more than four hours, consider raising it to 88 degrees. Estimates show that for every degree over 78 that an interior thermostat is set at, an energy bill drops by 6 to 8 percent. The less the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower the cooling bill.

Lower the Thermostat During Winter

During the winter months, try to keep the heater set at 68 degrees during the day. Energy.gov states that reducing a home's thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day in the winter can reduce a heating bill by 5 to 15 percent a year. Plus, lower temperatures at night may be more comfortable for sleeping when appropriate winter blankets are used for warmth.

Open Up the Windows During Summer Nights

Middletown is fortunate enough to have relatively mild summer temperatures. On summer nights, turn off the air conditioning, open the windows, and lift the blinds for sleeping. In the morning, close the windows and lower the blinds to retain the cool air. Research and install window treatments recommended for increased heating and cooling efficiency. Also, make sure to apply caulk or weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal air leaks.

Don't Forget the Value of Interior Fans

Fans cool people with their wind chill effect. As a result, using a ceiling fan can enable a thermostat increase of four degrees in temperature without reducing comfort for the room's occupants. Elsewhere, always use the bathroom fan to eliminate and redistribute the warm and humid air from a bath or shower. If possible, the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room fans should be ventilated to the outdoors.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats save money on cooling and heating bills by storing and repeating six or more temperature settings a day. These can be manually over-ridden via mobile phone apps without affecting daily or weekly programs. Homeowners can turn on their air conditioning just before returning home from work so that they come home to a comfortable environment. It's a truly customizable option.

Larson's Heating and Cooling has served the Middletown, NY area for more than 35 years. Please call us anytime at 845-344-3030 or fill out our contact form to discuss any heating and cooling services you may need, from repairs to a new install.

What's the Difference Between Amana and Fujitsu Mini Split Systems?

People who prefer mini split air conditioning systems to central A/C cite several reasons, including easy installation and cooling efficiency. Mini split features differ from one brand to the next. Learn what two popular brands, Amana and Fujitsu, have to offer.

Major Features of Each Brand 

Both brands offer single-room and multi-zone systems. Fujitsu touts several major benefits, including the following:

- Energy efficiency, thanks to the ductless design that leads to a significant reduction in energy loss

- Individual control per zone, letting members of a household customize the temperature in each room

- High reliability rate, due to exceptional quality control

- Installation ease, without the need for ductwork

- Varied sizes and styles to match a room's decor and meet its cooling needs

- Quiet operation for a noiseless environment

- Smartphone and tablet operation through a custom app The Amana mini split air conditioning system boasts a number of useful features, as well:

- Cooling and heating, with the ability to easily switch modes as seasons change

- Variety of indoor unit types, ranging in design and style

- Wireless control, with multi-feature remote controllers

- Multiple levels of operation, including temperature control, automatic restart after power loss, and a selection of comfort modes

- Jet cool fan features, to cool a room quickly

The Main Differences

While both Amana and Fujitsu offer a wide range of features in their air conditioning mini split systems, there are some differences. Fujitsu offers a smaller outdoor condenser, while Amana's outdoor unit is quieter. Amana provides a slightly wider cooling and heating range, while Fujitsu has a slightly higher efficiency rating. All in all, both brands offer convenient features for systems that are built to last and designed to cool efficiently even on the hottest days.

Contact a heating and cooling specialist, like Larson's Heating and Cooling, Inc., for expert recommendations based on customer requirements.

A Quick Look at Three Common Types of HVAC Warranties

Understanding HVAC warranties can help with choosing the best product and the right professional for the installation. Not all makers of HVACs offer the same warranty options, but Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc's quality heating and cooling products fall under one of these three categories.

Base Limited Warranties 

All major brands offer a standard product warranty, also referred to as a factory warranty. It generally covers most (but not all) HVAC parts, as well as the compressor(s), for a specific period after purchase—hence “limited.” Systems by leading heating and cooling equipment manufacturers, like Goodman, York, Amana, Peerless, and Fujitsu all carry a base limited warranty of between five and 12 years, depending on the make and model. These warranties come as a function of purchase at no additional cost.

Registered Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Most major HVAC manufacturers also offer additional limited warranties that extend coverage in terms of both time and scope, covering more parts or conditions for a longer period. Better companies offer Lifetime Registered Limited Warranties good for the entire time of the purchaser’s home ownership. Goodman was the first in the industry to offer it, although Amana, York, and Fujitsu all do as well. The only catch is that the purchase details must be reported back to the maker, usually within 30-90 days of the date of purchase (as opposed to the date of installation). This is often done easily online. While not automatic, except in Quebec and California, registered limited warranties also come fee-free.

Optional Extended Warranty

For an additional fee, these manufacturer-specific warranties offer coverage for add-ons—like emergency service calls, replacements for certain components, or labor—that are not covered under the brand’s base limited product warranty. While often more comprehensive, the time and scope of optional extended warranties may be seasonal, regional, or both. They may also simply enhance or lengthen the terms of an active registered limited warranty, depending on the manufacturer. Optional warranties are available from Williamson and Goodman, among others.

To choose the best way to keep comfortable year-round, it pays to ask a heating and cooling specialist about the specifics of HVAC warranty options before installation begins.

Is Humidity Affected by Air Conditioning?

Home air conditioning units, either window-mounted or central, are designed to remove moisture from inside a house or apartment. This ability is especially important in moist climates or homes near bodies of water. In Middletown, residences close to the Wallkill River may feel higher indoor dampness during the summer months.

HVAC contractors know the signs of an air conditioner not adequately removing humidity. Some telltale signs include:

- Ceiling or walls with water stains

- Fogged-up windows

- Musty smells

- Mold buildup, especially in bathrooms or near sinks

Improper AC sizing for a home's square footage can also lead to humidity problems. Air conditioners must work harder on humid days, and an AC unit with too-small cooling capacity will not remove moisture properly. Ironically, an excessively large unit may cool quickly but not optimally remove humidity.

Other reasons for underperformance include a clogged condensate drain allowing water to back up into the home as well as a built-in dehumidifier that may have stopped working.

It's critical to have a trained HVAC contractor check air conditioners annually to find problems before they arise. Since all homes are different, correct sizing of new HVAC equipment is critical. Only specially trained HVAC contractors have the right tools to perform this evaluation properly.

How Analytics Is Changing HVAC Maintenance

To minimize the costs associated with AC repair, many HVAC companies offer preventative maintenance (PM) packages. With analytics, the larger amount of available data allows for more efficient PM choices.

Advantages with Analytics

Analytics collects service data and information about different models, allowing service providers and property owners to evaluate how soon components are likely to fail without PM. Prior to analytics, the homeowner or property manager had to trust the technician about which procedures might be necessary for preventing future problems. The right maintenance choices can prevent more costly repairs in the future, but extra maintenance work can be an unnecessary expense.

Experienced AC Repair

Since we install and service a range of systems from ductless units to central air, we are familiar with the particular requirements of different HVAC systems. When assessing the data provided by analytics, our technicians can draw from their personal experience with various units here in New York.

Learn more about why our AC repair technicians have such positive testimonials from customers.

The Importance of Keeping Dust Systems Clean

Nobody likes a dusty home, but when left unchecked, dust buildup can do more than aggravate sensitive allergies. Dust particles can impact the home’s air quality, lower the performance and efficiency of HVAC equipment, and even become a fire hazard.

Hidden Dangers of Dust

While dust is a common contributor to explosions and fires in plants and manufacturing facilities, homeowners also face potentially deadly risks from the buildup of dust in their own homes. Detecting areas of heavy dust buildup is critical to preventing the spread of dust particles in order to keep the risk of problems to a minimum.

Importance of Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is key to preventing all of these issues associated with dust buildup. Any horizontal surface that’s part of the HVAC system is prone to collecting dust, even unnoticed overhead joists or out-of-the-way ductwork. Not only will occasional cleaning of the equipment help reduce the risk for dust-caused fire or explosion, but it can also improve system performance and efficiency. Minimizing dust will also allow everyone in the home to breathe just a little easier, creating a happier, healthier living environment for families and their pets.

Contact a heating and cooling specialist like Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc. to learn proper techniques for cleaning HVAC systems.