Nothing can ruin a good day like noticing yellowing or water damage on your ceiling near your AC vents. 

The first thing you might think is something like ‘’my ceiling is now ruined, I should call a painter’’. Water damage and mold should be the last of your worries, though. The more pressing concern is your AC vent leaking water, and if you leave this problem unchecked, it could wreak havoc on your home.

AC vent leaking water could point to a more serious problem with your air conditioner. We suggest you spring into action as soon as possible to ensure you don’t end up busting your bank on a costly AC repair in the future.

Luckily, with this guide, you’ll have no trouble getting to the bottom of this mystery, and you might even be able to fix it yourself. How exciting does that sound?

In the wise words of Marvin Gaye, let’s get it on! Here are some possible culprits in your AC vent leaking water:

1. Air escaping from around vents

We probably spooked you by hinting your situation might be dire, but maybe your AC vent leaking water problem is not directly related to your AC. It might be as simple as air escaping around your vents.

How can that cause water leaks, though?

Simple – if the air is escaping around your vents instead of going through the grates (as intended), it will cause condensation buildup, which will eventually start dripping from the vent. 

To check if that’s the case, just feel out the vent with your hand. If you can feel any air coming from anywhere besides the grates, you found the cause of this annoying problem.

The solution is simple – buy some caulk and seal that leak!

2. Clogged condensate drain line

A condensate drain line removes the water from your system. When it gets clogged, the water still has to go somewhere. So if you come across your AC vent leaking water, you should check your condensate drain line.

Over time, especially in humid areas like Florida, mildew can form inside the drain line and cause a hardcore clog. Additionally, even debris from the water that drips from the evaporator coil can build up and clog the drain line.

With proper maintenance, this problem is easy to avoid. If the clog isn’t serious, you can also unclog the drain line yourself!

3. Dirty air filters

As HVAC professionals, we often get called in to fix air conditioner problems that could have been avoided by changing the filters regularly. Join our imaginary ‘’Good AC Owners’’ club and swap out your filters! Pretty please! 

Your air conditioner absorbs the moisture from the air and the condensation drips into a drain pan. However, dust and debris on the filters decrease the airflow, which can cause the water to freeze over the evaporator coils.

The longer you keep your dirty filters, the thicker the layer of ice becomes, which is kinda cool for all the wrong reasons. Unfortunately, your AC doesn’t double as a freezer, and the ice eventually has to start melting. As it melts, it can lead to your AC vent leaking water.

Pro tip: Once you swap out your air filters, feel free to help the ice melt faster by using a hair dryer.

4. Rusted drain pan

As we already mentioned, the drain pan collects condensation dripping from the AC coils. Due to age and humid weather (damn you Florida, this is why we can’t have nice things), the drain pan can become rusted.

If you checked your evaporator coils and swapped out your air filters but the AC vent leaking water issue persists, check your drain pan. If it looks like a WWII relic, it’s time to swap it out. 

It’s easy, just follow our guide on replacing an AC drain pan.

5. Broken condensate pump

Your air conditioner’s condensate pump collects water and pumps it outside – that is, when it’s not broken. If this pump malfunctions, one of the common symptoms is the AC vent leaking water.

However, you might still be able to salvage this pump if the float switch got stuck due to dirt or debris buildup. The first thing you should do is locate the pump and the float switch. Try to engage the pump by playing around with the switch. If the pump turns on, it’s a good sign. We recommend using bleach to get rid of the dirt buildup.

If your condensate pump refuses to cooperate (in other words, if you can’t power it on), it might be time to replace the pump. Replacing it yourself isn’t easy, though. If you have no idea what you’re doing, contact a professional.

6. Bad air duct insulation 

Attic spaces are notorious for their lack of insulation. This could be a problem since most ducts run through the attic, where they are susceptible to acquiring excess condensation. 

Fortunately, this is easy to check. 

Go to your attic, remove the grate from the vents, and check if the insulation is sufficient. If not, you only need to add insulation material around the ductwork.

7. Refrigerant leak

Remember when we said how an AC vent leaking water could point to a bigger problem? Let us introduce you to that bigger problem – the refrigerant leak. 

If you’ve replaced the air filters and there’s still ice on your evaporator coils – and your AC vent leaking problem has become something you already got used to – it could be a refrigerant leak that’s the culprit. Other symptoms include bad cooling performance and a hissing sound when you power on your unit.

If you believe you’ve got a refrigerant leak, contact a professional ASAP. Refrigerant is highly poisonous, so extended exposure could be a massive health risk.

What to do if the problem persists?

Running into problems with your AC is an integral part of being a proud owner of an HVAC system. That is why regular maintenance is a must. Swapping out the air filters, clearing the drain pan of debris, and checking the condition of the drain pan is something we suggest doing regularly to keep the problems at bay.

But even if you do everything right, you could still run into an AC vent leaking water problem. 

If all the signs point to a refrigerant leak, or if any of the steps seem a tad bit too much, you should call a professional.

Contact Aztil AC, if the AC vent leaking is not something you’re comfortable addressing yourself. Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com and we’ll make sure your air conditioner is running smoothly again!

Newer AC units are surprisingly quiet compared to some older models that sound like an airplane taking off. However, if you expect your air conditioner to operate silently, you might have unrealistic expectations. 

As with any other piece of equipment, noise is pretty much normal. Nevertheless, unexpected sounds might be a cause for concern, especially if you start hearing your AC making hissing noises.

If you owned an HVAC system for a while, you’re probably aware that the troubleshooting process can be tricky. AC making hissing noises is no different, as multiple things could be causing an issue.

To help put your mind at ease, we put together a quick troubleshooting guide that will help you focus on the problem. 

Time to dig in!

The cause of the hissing sound

Before troubleshooting, you should first pay some extra attention to the sound. Is your AC making hissing noises that stop after a few seconds? If the answer is yes, you have no reason to worry.

A short hissing sound is perfectly ok as it’s just the sound of the refrigerant gas in the expansion valve of your unit.

However, if the AC is making hissing noises that are persistent, it probably indicates a bigger problem, such as any of the following:

1. Refrigerant leaks

If you hear bubbling along with your AC making hissing noises, this is the number one indication of a refrigerant leak in your system. The hissing is refrigerant in gas form escaping through the leak. Since refrigerant is a toxic chemical, it poses a health and environmental risk.

If you want to be 100% sure that it’s a refrigerant leak you’re up against, you should look at some other signs. 

For instance, things like ice formations anywhere on your unit or your vents blowing hot air are other common symptoms. Additionally, abnormally high energy bills are also one of the symptoms. Low refrigerant levels usually make your AC struggle to maintain a proper temperature, thus wasting more power.

Unfortunately, the remaining thing you should do now is shut off the power to the unit and call a professional HVAC technician to inspect your system. 

Not only is the refrigerant highly poisonous, but you’ll also need specialized tools to locate a leak that could be pretty small for untrained eyes to see. Even if you somehow managed to do that, refilling the system with the proper amount of refrigerant and pressurizing is no easy task.

2. Leaky ducts

A telltale sign of leaky ducts is AC making hissing noises and a high-pitch squealing originating from the vents. Why this happens is quite simple – deteriorating air ducts can develop many small gaps, tears, or cracks, which allow the air to escape. 

If you’re not sure if leaky ducts are behind your AC making hissing noises, other things could be a dead giveaway. For instance, if you have difficulties keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, your air ducts are probably leaking. Since air-conditioned air travels through the air ducts before reaching your rooms, that cool breezy air might escape into places like attics or walls if there are cracks.

Just as with refrigerant leaks, leaky air ducts will lead to high energy bills since your AC will start compensating for all the escaped air.

The question here is: can you fix this problem yourself?

If you want to pull your hair out in frustration, then maybe yes. In all seriousness, we cannot recommend it. Your entire ductwork system is concealed behind walls and ceilings, and you’d first have to inspect every duct in your home before you perform the duct sealing itself. If you appreciate your time, please call a professional.

3. Too much pressure inside the compressor

The compressor is a crucial part of the HVAC system. It’s located inside the outside unit and it’s the main component of the refrigerant circulation as it moves refrigerant through the system.

Since the compressor is pressurized, too much pressure can build up in the outside unit, which can lead to AC making hissing noises. In the worst-case scenario, the extra pressure can cause the compressor to malfunction, putting your unit out of service. 

Additional symptoms of this problem may include a loud screeching sound that lasts over ten seconds after you power on the system. Moreover, if your AC turns on and off a lot more often than usual, there might be too much pressure inside the compressor.

Since you would require the right tools to properly fix this problem and the necessary experience to pressurize the system properly, this too is something that’s best left to the professionals.

4. Malfunctioning reversing valve

The final culprit behind the AC making hissing noises problem is for all our readers who have a heat pump (a unit which cools and heats the air). The reverse valve might be the cause. 

This valve is a part of the heat pump and is responsible for switching the flow of refrigerant in the system, thus allowing it to heat and cool. However, if it malfunctions, it can cause a lot of problems. 

A broken reversing valve can get stuck between the two modes, which not only causes the hissing sound but also causes subpar cooling. So if you notice your AC making hissing noises along with an inconsistent temperature and a high energy bill, it might be the reversing valve.

If you’re wondering whether you can fix this problem yourself, we’ll have to disappoint you for the fourth time today. A malfunctioning reversing valve is a serious issue that could point to several other problems with your AC. For instance, the valve itself might be burnt or oxidized, which could point to overheating. 

Overheating is a serious problem that requires professional help.

Keeping your AC healthy

While AC making hissing noises can be pretty annoying, it’s a positive thing as it gives you a sign that something is wrong. 

As an HVAC owner, your job is to keep a close eye on any weird behaviors your AC might exhibit and learn enough to be able to report them. But more importantly, it’s your job to keep your AC healthy by maintaining it regularly to minimize the chance of problems happening. 

This includes cleaning your AC, ensuring it always has good airflow, and swapping out the air filters every few months. 

While you shouldn’t attempt fixing these malfunctions yourself, it’s not a problem for experienced HVAC technicians. For all the bigger repairs, you need to call a professional to restore your AC to tip-top condition. 

If you want a fast and cost-effective AC repair service available 24/7 in Florida, call Aztil AC at (888) 729-8452 or send an email to info@aztilac.com, and we’ll get to fixing your AC making hissing noises right away.

Most people never take a moment to appreciate their air conditioner. This is funny because our air conditioners are the only appliances that make the Florida weather bearable. Cooling your home is just one of the things that this wonderful machine does daily, it also helps you keep the humidity under control.

You’re probably aware all the moisture that your AC unit removes from the air has to end up somewhere. You’re correct – it ends up in the AC drain line. 

However, since Florida has a famously high humidity index, mildew is a common problem for many AC owners. 

If you forget to inspect the unit regularly, mildew can build up and cause many problems, one of the most common being a clogged AC drain line. If you’ve got a sneaking suspicion that’s the case, this article is for you, as we’re going to go through the most common AC drain line clogged symptoms.

Let’s dig a little deeper!

What causes clogged drain lines? 

How does mildew even have the power to cause AC drain line clogged symptoms? Well, let’s first explain what drain lines even do.

Your HVAC removes the moisture from the air with the help of evaporator coils, and your AC then collects all the water in the drain pan. This is where the drain line comes in, as its role is, as the name suggests, to drain the water from your HVAC system.

If you have any AC drain line clogged symptoms, they signify there’s an obstruction somewhere in the system. 

We already mention mildew as a common cause. Drain lines are constantly moist, meaning mold can form and eventually coat the inside of the line and prevent the water from leaving your system.

But even if you check for mold regularly, it doesn’t mean you’re exempt from experiencing AC drain line clogged symptoms. If the water starts dripping off the evaporator coil, it can pick up any dirt or debris along the way. If enough debris passes through the drain, the drain line can evenutally get clogged.

Signs your drain line is clogged

Luckily, if there are any problems with your AC, the warning signs are easy to spot. The same goes for this particular issue. Here are some of the most common AC drain line clogged symptoms:

1. Standing water near your condenser unit

This one is the most obvious, as puddles of water around your AC usually indicate that your drain pan cannot drain out due to a clog in the drain line. As a result, the condensate drain pan will overflow, and you’ll end up with water around your indoor or outdoor unit.

2. Moldy smell

Mold is usually easy to identify by a strong, musty smell which some describe as the smell of decaying wood. So if you smell mold, you should check if the drain line is clogged as soon as possible. 

3. Water damage

Any amount of water leaking from your system can be enough to cause a lot of damage to your home. For instance, when water ends up in the wrong places, like your floors or walls, it can cause mold formations where you don’t want them.

4. The drain pan is filled up

It’s simple logic. If more water enters your system than is being drained, your drain pan will be filled up. A full drain pan is not a good sign. It could be one of the AC drain line clogged symptoms, but it could be a sign that your refrigerant levels are low or a sign of countless other issues.

5. You’re unable to power on your AC system

Most modern indoor air handling units have a sensor that activates when the drain pan has excess water and cannot drain. This stops cooling to prevent water from overflowing and causing your leak. If your AC is powering off when you switch it on, it might imply that you’re experiencing AC drain line clogged symptoms.

How to unclog a drain line yourself

The good news is that you can try to fix the clog yourself, and it probably won’t even take that long. We recommend trying one of these two methods:

1. The garden hose method

The first method is quite simple, just follow the next few steps:

1. Turn off your AC using the breaker for maximum safety
2. Locate your unit’s drain pipe and drain line
3. Find the access point of your drain pipe (usually a small cap you can remove)
4. Attach a garden hose to the access point
5. Run the water at maximum pressure for five seconds 

If the clog is not loose, repeat this process several times until you manage to loosen up the clog.

2. The wet/dry vacuum method

If you have a wet/dry vacuum, you can use it to get rid of that pesky clog. Here’s how:

1. Turn off your AC using the breaker for maximum safety
2. Locate your unit’s drain line
3. Attach your vacuum’s hose to the exit point of the drain
4. Wrap duct tape around the mouth of the vacuum to create a strong air seal
5. Run the vacuum for a couple of minutes

If the mission was a success, you’ll see brown water in your vacuum’s water tank. If you tried both methods and some AC drain line clogged symptoms persist, you might need to call a professional.

How to avoid clogs

Keeping mold at bay is so easy you’ll probably beat yourself up over why you haven’t done it in the first place. You only need to pour some bleach down the condensate drain line from the inside. We recommend doing the bleach treatment each spring.

Bleach will eliminate any mold and ensure that water can drain freely, even in the most humid environments.

However, if you want to completely erase the possibility of any ac drain line clogged symptoms, you might need to do a bit more. For starters, replace the air filters frequently. 

Your choice matters, as higher-quality filters will do a better job of trapping any debris in your system and keep it from causing any clogs.

Clean or replace your filters every few months to keep your AC in top condition.

What if the problem is a bit more serious?

While cleaning out clogs can sometimes be easy, as HVAC professionals, we’ve seen things you don’t want to see. If you’ve tried everything and still have a clogged drain line along with any AC drain line clogged symptoms, maybe it’s better to call us.

If all the symptoms point to a clogged drain line, but your drain line is not clogged, you could have a more severe issue that can cause irreparable damage to your HVAC system.

Some things are best left to the professionals, and if you have no experience with troubleshooting air conditioning units, call Aztil AC. 

We’re a Florida-based company available around the clock to help you with any AC problems you might be encountering. Call us at (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com to describe any AC drain line clogged symptoms and we’re good to go! See you in a wink!

There are a lot of factors that play a role in the efficiency of your air conditioning system. You probably heard that the size of the unit itself should be the correct size for the space you are heating or cooling for the best efficiency. However, the size of the ducts also plays a crucial part in how your system operates.

Messing this up can make your AC struggle or even render it completely useless. This is why you should learn to use the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb. 

Prepare to get challenged if you’re not really technically inclined as there are many factors you should consider when sizing your ducts.

Luckily, you’ve landed on this page. We’ll help you understand how exactly ducts affect the efficiency of your system, as well as the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb to determine the right size of your ductwork.

The role of ducts in your HVAC system

While most of the magic in your air conditioning system happens inside the furnace and the air conditioning unit, all that breezy air reaches your home by traveling via ducts. 

Ducts are channels responsible for distributing the fresh air throughout the HVAC system. 

While it’s common knowledge that ducts need to be constantly maintained for your air conditioner to operate at an optimal level, the size of the ductwork is often overlooked. 

In short, since HVAC systems come in different sizes, the size of the ducts you install should match the unit perfectly to get the correct air circulation. 

Ducts of the wrong size can not only result in a significant amount of wasted energy, but they can also cause put a lot of unnecessary pressure on your air conditioner. In time, this can cause a significant amount of air and tear inside the different components of your HVAC system. 

The dangers of improper duct sizing

Without using the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb, you can end up with ductwork that isn’t the right match for your unit.

If your ducts are too small, it can cause an increase in the static pressure. Not only will the system be noisier, but your air conditioner will also need to work extra hard to reach the desired temperature. As a result, your unit will run longer which can significantly increase your energy expenditure. 

Along with those problems, you’ll also experience a noticeable decrease in airflow. You might also run into problems maintaining your equipment and a comfortable temperature. The lack of airflow will also harm your HVAC unit and significantly decrease its lifespan. 

Oversized ducts can handle a lot of airflows, but if your HVAC system is underpowered, it will struggle with distributing airflow evenly. This is simply because your unit will have to cover a larger surface area.

Just as with undersized ducts, ducts a tad too big can cause your HVAC unit to work overtime which will decrease its lifespan and increase your energy bill.

Sizing your ductwork properly

Calculating the ductwork sizing includes some fairly complicated math. The formula used incorporates different factors such as the square footage of your home, friction loss and the size of your unit, static pressure, and the appropriate airflow rate.

To calculate the duct sizes, you’ll need to find the following:

1. The size of your home in square feet, as well as the square footage of all the rooms
2. Cubic feet per minute
3. The friction loss rate of the ductwork

If you’re unsure whether you can do this properly, we advise you call an HVAC professional. These cats have been doing it for a long time and they have the necessary tools and charts that make this process significantly easier.

However, if you’d still like to do it yourself, make sure to follow the exact steps we show you. 

1. Calculate the size of your home

As we hinted previously, the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb starts with the size of the space you’re heating/cooling and the size of each room. 

The rule states that you’ll require an air conditioner of a one-tonne capacity per 500 feet of floor area, 

Now that you’re familiar with the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb, you’ll need to whip out your tape measure. Start by measuring the length as well as the width of every wall. For rooms of abnormal shapes, we recommend dividing them into smaller rectangular pieces before taking measurements. 

Write down the dimensions in a chart.

This particular calculation is called the Manual D sizing method, and it’s very important in the HVAC industry as it ensures the proper airflow and the proper insulation. It’s also great for keeping the noise to a minimum.

2. Calculating cubic feet per minute

Next, you’ll need to calculate cubic feet per minute (CFM). This is a measurement of air velocity needed to cool or heat the room. Keep in mind that the size of your ducts play a major part in the final result so you’ll need to calculate the CFM for every room. 

The first thing you’ll need to learn is the size of your air conditioning unit in tons. You should then multiply this number by the average output of your HVAC unit. Finally, you can divide the result by the total square footage of your home.

Now you have the multiplier to easily figure out the CFM for individual rooms. If your room is 200 square feet you have to multiply the size of your unit times 400 and finally divide that result with the overall square footage.

3. Calculating friction loss rate

A huge part of the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb is the static pressure of your air conditioning unit. To determine this measurement, you’ll have to know the friction loss rate first. 

However, that’s easier said than done, as the friction loss rate is based on multiple factors, such as the length of every duct, and the number of turns in the ducts, grills, coils, registers, and filters. 

To measure it properly, professionals use duct size calculators to combine all these measurements. They then multiply the number by 100 and finally divide the result by the entire span of your ductwork.

While we don’t recommend calculating the friction loss rate alone, you can come close by finding an online tool that lets you calculate friction loss.

Ultimately, by combining the friction loss rate, the CFM, and the size of your home, you’ll get the right duct sizing for your unit. 

Why precision is important

The HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb might help you get close to finding out the proper duct sizes. However, the final calculation where you combine all the factors is pretty complex, and not for the faint of heart.

Without access to professional measurement tools that the pros use (software and program calculators), you might make a tiny mistake that could put your HVAC system out of whack. 

You also miss one crucial thing that HVAC professionals have – years of experience.

Sizing your ducts is not a problem for professionals as they’ve simply done it countless times. With a professional, you can make sure that mistakes are almost impossible to happen. 

If your air conditioner unit seems to be struggling, or you’re trying to design your ductwork and you’ve run into some problems, contact Aztil AC by calling (888) 729-8452, or by sending an email to info@aztilac.com  We’re available 24/7 and we can help you get the proper duct size as soon as possible!

Many things could go wrong with your air conditioner system in the summer, however, the most common issue is blown AC fuses. Florida citizens might be familiar with this event which can only be described only as a living hell.

In a perfect world, AC fuses going bad is a tiny inconvenience. But we don’t live in that world and if your air conditioner keeps blowing fuses, it can be a symptom of a more serious problem. 

How can you make sure it’s nothing serious?

Hold your horses, and we will show you how to replace AC fuses and give you a rundown of possible underlying causes for this problem. By the end of this guide, you’ll be prepared for everything your AC unit throws at you.

How do AC fuses work

Fuses are protective elements for electrical appliances against excessive levels of current, aka amperage. Construction-wise, they’re simple as they consist of a thin strip of wire inside a casing. 

So how do AC fuses protect your AC unit?

During a normal working cycle of your unit, the fuse allows the current to pass freely through the wire. In case of an overload, the wire heats up until it melts, it breaks the circuit, and thus stops electricity from causing any damage. 

AC units typically use TR fuses with different ratings that depend on how much amperage the air conditioner is designed to handle. 

If you’re in a pinch, you can always use a fuse rated for a lower amperage than your system. 

However, you can’t use a fuse that’s rated for higher amperage. Doing this could fry your condenser in the process. Believe us, you don’t want that to happen.

What causes your system to blow AC fuses

As we mentioned previously, heat and electronics aren’t a good match. AC fuses are notoriously more susceptible to blowing during the blistering summer heat.

Unfortunately, a blown fuse could also indicate a bigger issue in the electric circuit. Think about it: the primary function of the fuse is to protect your air conditioner, so if your fuses keep dying on you, there is probably a different component in your AC that’s malfunctioning.

Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Dirty air filters

If your AC filter is dirty, it puts your air conditioner under a lot of pressure. Since your AC will work harder than usual, the system can overheat, thus blowing a fuse or tripping the breaker. This usually happens in the summer when your AC struggles to push the air out of the filter.

2. Faulty capacitor

The capacitor regulates the current flowing through the condenser. When it malfunctions it can allow excessive current to flow through the entire system. A fuse will blow to protect the unit from further damage. 

If the capacitor is faulty, this problem will persist unless you address the core problem. 

Note that replacing a capacitor is not for the faint-hearted, so if you have no experience with electronics, you should call in a professional.

3. Loose cables

Loose cables can cause a short that might blow a fuse. Problems with cables might happen due to improper installation. Alternatively, shifts in temperature can also cause the cables to contract and expand, thus causing disconnects.

In this case, we also recommend you call a professional as loose wires can be a serious electrical hazard.

4. Low refrigerant levels

If there are insufficient levels of refrigerant in the system, your AC will struggle to maintain the set temperature. Do you remember what we said about what happens when your unit has to work extra hard?

It overloads.

Until you call a professional and address the refrigerant, your unit will continue blowing fuses.

5. The wrong type of fuses

When we described fuses, we mentioned you can use a lower-rated fuse in a pinch. But that’s it, you can use them only until you find a proper replacement. If you have a lower-capacity fuse, it will keep blowing until you use the one with the proper rating for your unit. 

How to check if a fuse is blown

Before playing around with fuses, we recommend you get a voltmeter. While it’s possible to check AC fuses without this tool, it would involve too much trial and error. 

To inspect fuses, follow these steps:

1. Open the disconnect: find a gray box mounted on your outside wall next to the outdoor unit and open the cover by swinging it to the open position or lifting it.
2. Locate the wires: open the cover inside the disconnect that protects the wiring. Find the wire labeled line (incoming) and load (outgoing).
3. Place the leads: set the voltmeter to a voltage setting and attach the red lead of your voltmeter on the lug of the black wire and the black lead on the lug of the white wire.
4. Read the voltage: the reading should be between 220 and 240 volts. This is good news as it means power coming into your disconnect. If there is no reading, you’ll have to call a professional.
5. Test the load side: if your disconnect is working properly, repeat the same test on the load side of the fuses. The reading should be the same as in the previous step. If your voltmeter has a reading on the line side but the load side is showing zero volts, you’ve got a blown fuse.

How to replace AC fuses

Luckily, swapping out fuses is not rocket science. In fact, as an HVAC owner in Florida, it’s a necessary skill to have. Just follow these steps:

1. Depending on the type of the system, you can find your AC fuses in the same place as the wiring or the handle of the disconnect. If you’ve got the latter type, pull out the ‘’T’’ handle first to expose the fuses.
2. Pulling out the handle stops the current to the fuses, so you’ll have to do this step regardless of where your AC fuses are installed. For an extra level of safety, shut down the breaker to the AC unit.
3. Go to town on those fuses, and feel free to remove them using your hands. If they’re inside the handle, you’ll have to remove them with a pair of pliers with insulated handles.

What if the problem persists?

If you swap out the fuses and they still keep blowing, you need to call a professional. An occasional fuse problem might not be a cause for worry, but if you’re constantly grabbing a pair of pliers and troubleshooting that AC unit, you’re treating the symptom and not the disease.

As we described above, most underlying causes can be quite serious, and if left unchecked, could cause more damage. In the worst-case scenario – a hazard to yourself and your property.

Get in touch with Aztil AC if you suspect your problem is more serious instead of the hot Florida sun. We’re available 24/7 and we can help you get down to the bottom of it as soon as possible. Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com and we’ll restore your AC to tip-top shape. Why do your AC fuses keep blowing

Many things could go wrong with your air conditioner system in the summer, however, the most common issue is blown AC fuses. Florida citizens might be familiar with this event which can only be described only as a living hell.

In a perfect world, AC fuses going bad is a tiny inconvenience. But we don’t live in that world and if your air conditioner keeps blowing fuses, it can be a symptom of a more serious problem. How can you make sure it’s nothing serious?

Hold your horses, and we will show you how to replace AC fuses and give you a rundown of possible underlying causes for this problem. By the end of this guide, you’ll be prepared for everything your AC unit throws at you.

How do AC fuses work

Fuses are protective elements for electrical appliances against excessive levels of current, aka amperage. Construction-wise, they’re simple as they consist of a thin strip of wire inside a casing. 

So how do AC fuses protect your AC unit?

During a normal working cycle of your unit, the fuse allows the current to pass freely through the wire. In case of an overload, the wire heats up until it melts, it breaks the circuit, and thus stops electricity from causing any damage. 

AC units typically use TR fuses with different ratings that depend on how much amperage the air conditioner is designed to handle. 

If you’re in a pinch, you can always use a fuse rated for a lower amperage than your system. 

However, you can’t use a fuse that’s rated for higher amperage. Doing this could fry your condenser in the process. Believe us, you don’t want that to happen.

What causes your system to blow AC fuses

As we mentioned previously, heat and electronics aren’t a good match. AC fuses are notoriously more susceptible to blowing during the blistering summer heat.Unfortunately, a blown fuse could also indicate a bigger issue in the electric circuit. Think about it: the primary function of the fuse is to protect your air conditioner, so if your fuses keep dying on you, there is probably a different component in your AC that’s malfunctioning.

Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Dirty air filters

If your AC filter is dirty, it puts your air conditioner under a lot of pressure. Since your AC will work harder than usual, the system can overheat, thus blowing a fuse or tripping the breaker. This usually happens in the summer when your AC struggles to push the air out of the filter.

2. Faulty capacitor

The capacitor regulates the current flowing through the condenser. When it malfunctions it can allow excessive current to flow through the entire system. A fuse will blow to protect the unit from further damage. 

If the capacitor is faulty, this problem will persist unless you address the core problem. 

Note that replacing a capacitor is not for the faint-hearted, so if you have no experience with electronics, you should call in a professional.

3. Loose cables

Loose cables can cause a short that might blow a fuse. Problems with cables might happen due to improper installation. Alternatively, shifts in temperature can also cause the cables to contract and expand, thus causing disconnects.

In this case, we also recommend you call a professional as loose wires can be a serious electrical hazard.

4. Low refrigerant levels

If there are insufficient levels of refrigerant in the system, your AC will struggle to maintain the set temperature. Do you remember what we said about what happens when your unit has to work extra hard?

It overloads.

Until you call a professional and address the refrigerant, your unit will continue blowing fuses.

5. The wrong type of fuses

When we described fuses, we mentioned you can use a lower-rated fuse in a pinch. But that’s it, you can use them only until you find a proper replacement. If you have a lower-capacity fuse, it will keep blowing until you use the one with the proper rating for your unit. 

How to check if a fuse is blown

Before playing around with fuses, we recommend you get a voltmeter. While it’s possible to check AC fuses without this tool, it would involve too much trial and error. 

To inspect fuses, follow these steps:

1. Open the disconnect: find a gray box mounted on your outside wall next to the outdoor unit and open the cover by swinging it to the open position or lifting it.
2. Locate the wires: open the cover inside the disconnect that protects the wiring. Find the wire labeled line (incoming) and load (outgoing).
3. Place the leads: set the voltmeter to a voltage setting and attach the red lead of your voltmeter on the lug of the black wire and the black lead on the lug of the white wire.
4. Read the voltage: the reading should be between 220 and 240 volts. This is good news as it means power coming into your disconnect. If there is no reading, you’ll have to call a professional.
5. Test the load side: if your disconnect is working properly, repeat the same test on the load side of the fuses. The reading should be the same as in the previous step. If your voltmeter has a reading on the line side but the load side is showing zero volts, you’ve got a blown fuse.

How to replace AC fuses

Luckily, swapping out fuses is not rocket science. In fact, as an HVAC owner in Florida, it’s a necessary skill to have. Just follow these steps:

1. Depending on the type of the system, you can find your AC fuses in the same place as the wiring or the handle of the disconnect. If you’ve got the latter type, pull out the ‘’T’’ handle first to expose the fuses.

2. Pulling out the handle stops the current to the fuses, so you’ll have to do this step regardless of where your AC fuses are installed. For an extra level of safety, shut down the breaker to the AC unit.

3. Go to town on those fuses, and feel free to remove them using your hands. If they’re inside the handle, you’ll have to remove them with a pair of pliers with insulated handles.

What if the problem persists?

If you swap out the fuses and they still keep blowing, you need to call a professional. An occasional fuse problem might not be a cause for worry, but if you’re constantly grabbing a pair of pliers and troubleshooting that AC unit, you’re treating the symptom and not the disease.

As we described above, most underlying causes can be quite serious, and if left unchecked, could cause more damage. In the worst-case scenario – a hazard to yourself and your property.

Get in touch with Aztil AC if you suspect your problem is more serious instead of the hot Florida sun. We’re available 24/7 and we can help you get down to the bottom of it as soon as possible. Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com and we’ll restore your AC to tip-top shape

A modern air conditioning unit is a complex piece of machinery. It contains several sensitive components such as relays, switches, and controllers that ensure the entire system is working properly. These parts are quite sensitive so they operate at a lower voltage – 24 VAC.

On the other hand, major system components, such as a draft-inducing fan, require more juice. More precisely, they require the standard 240 VAC.

An air conditioning unit uses an HVAC transformer to drop the voltage down to where more sensitive components can operate properly.

Needless to say, if the HVAC transformer malfunctions, the circuit breaker will trip to prevent further damage. This means that you will be stuck without air conditioning, which can be a major problem, especially in the summer.

So without further ado, we bring you a troubleshooting guide that will help you determine if your HVAC transformer is fried or if something else needs to be addressed.

Disclaimer: this is not a guide for beginners. A transformer failure is not a simple issue to fix or troubleshoot by yourself, if anything in this guide seems outside of your skill level, we recommend you call an experienced HVAC technician.

1. Find out if there was a power surge

Many people overlook this step. However, a power surge is the most common cause of a fried HVAC transformer. This is especially true for newer units that are often more sensitive to power blips. If you suspect this is the cause of your problem, locate the transformer inside of your air handler and get to work. 

Follow these steps:

1. Inspect the components visually. If you notice parts like capacitors looking fried, you probably had a major power surge.
2. Shut down the system.
3. Check and reset the breaker
4. Wait around half an hour before restarting the system
5. If the breaker trips again, that’s all the evidence you need that there’s been a power surge.

Unfortunately, this is a serious issue and a lot of parts will probably need replacing, so you’ll have to call an HVAC professional.

2. Check the indoor fan

This fan moves the air into your living space so the heat transfer cannot happen if this part stops working.

The major issue here is that a faulty HVAC transformer could be just one of the causes of an inoperative fan, so pinpointing the real culprit will probably be quite tricky. However, there are a lot of symptoms that can point to a failing transformer. 

Transformers usually make some noise, but if the noise is louder than usual and you notice a lot of vibration along with a non-functioning fan, your HVAC transformer might be bad. 

The process is as follows:

1. Check for loose connections and signs of overheating such as discoloration.

2. Use a voltmeter to check the voltage, current, and kVa. Compare those numbers with the ones written on the transformer’s nameplate, and if you spot any discrepancies you’ve got an overload.

3. Check the outside unit condenser, fan, and compressor

These three components help the refrigerant circulate through your system. First, the compressor compresses the refrigerant and discharges it as vapor. As the fan blows across the condenser it eliminates the heat from the refrigerant, which then changes back into liquid. 

Here’s how to troubleshoot these parts:

1. Since the compressor requires a supply voltage within 10% of the manufacturer’s recommendation, check for voltage at the breakers, switches, fuses, and disconnects first.
2. Inspect the low-voltage transformer. If you get a reading lower than 21.5 volts, there won’t be enough power to activate the contactor and start the compressor.
3. Check if the run capacitor is working properly. If this part is faulty the motor can draw in too much current, which can cause the unit to overheat. 

These components wouldn’t work at all if the HVAC transformer was faulty. So if any of these do work, you’ll need to shift your focus elsewhere instead of troubleshooting the transformer any further.

4. Check the power to the primary side of the HVAC transformer

The next step is examining the power going into the step-down transformer. If there is a 240v feed into the primary side of the transformer, it means that the main power going into the unit is not to blame. On the other hand, if the reading isn’t 240v, you’ll need to troubleshoot other components.

Here’s how to check this side of the HVAC transformer:

1. Measure the voltage at the proper terminals
2. If you’re not getting voltage on this side, you need to check the breaker and wiring going into the unit for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.

5. Check the voltage at the secondary side of the HVAC transformer

Since we’re talking about the step-down transformer, the voltage going in on the primary side should be 240v and the voltage on the secondary side should be 24v. If the voltage on the primary side checks out, but the voltage on the secondary side is showing 0v, it means that the HVAC transformer is officially at fault. 

Here’s how you can troubleshoot this side:

1. Identify any open or short circuits, loose wiring and connections, and dirty wiring.
2. Turn on the system and check for vibration, hum, or noise.

6. Check the contactor

This important part is controlled by the thermostat and governs the flow of electricity to all components in the system. The coil terminals are energized by receiving voltage from the thermostat, which pulls in the contacts that allow the main power at both incoming circuit wires to be applied to the fan motor and the compressor to the top terminals.

However, a contactor can get stuck if the surfaces inside become pitted and oxidized. Once that happens, the current will flow to the specific components constantly instead of cycling on and off. 

Here’s how to troubleshoot a contactor:

1. Turn off the power to the unit.
2. Lift the metal cover and find the wiring connections on the condenser unit.
3. We recommend taking quick photos so you know how to reconnect every wire.
4. Start with the contactor coil connection and measure for 24v. If the reading is 0v, it means that the contactor coil isn’t receiving any power.
5. Find the line wires of the contactor and measure for 240v and if the reading is 0v, there is no main power. In that case, check the fuses or the breaker.
6. Next, switch your focus to the load side of the contactor and measure for 240v at the T1 and T2. If the measurement is 0v, it means that your contactor is broken and if you spot a voltage drop of over 3% across the contacts, the contacts themselves might be damaged.

When should you call a professional?

Even if you’re quite handy with gadgets like voltmeters and multimeters and you know how to tinker with electronics, HVAC systems are a different beast. They’re quite complex and even if you do manage to get down to the bottom of the problem, you will most likely have to call in a professional at some point.

After all, you don’t want to hurt yourself or your HVAC system, for that matter. 

If you think you have a problem with an HVAC transformer or any other complex electronic component, call Aztil AC – a leading air conditioning company in South Florida. 

We can help you with everything related to your air conditioning system quickly, efficiently, and at any time of day (or night). We’ve got a team of experienced HVAC technicians that can diagnose and fix your transformer in record time.

Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com so we can restore that AC system of yours back to life!

An HVAC system is a complex piece of equipment. There are several parts that come into play to make the temperature in your home just right while also providing you with the best air quality possible.

With that said, even if you purchase the best HVAC unit available it might get bottlenecked by some of the other factors like ductwork. This is where the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb comes into play. 

You probably might think that it’s redundant, after all, vents just expel air, however, your ducts play an important role in air distribution in your air conditioning system.

Keep on reading to learn what makes ducts a crucial link in your AC chain and what is the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb.

Why Duct Size Matters

AC ducts are passageways that help your HVAC system eliminate the stale, and distribute fresh cool air. 

How it works is quite simple – the plenum which stores the air is attached to multiple air ducts (there are usually two of these plenums in your system). First, the HVAC fills the supply plenum with air that gets expelled through the ductwork. This new air pushes the existing air into a different set of ducts that are connected to a return plenum. 

Consequently, that air is expelled outside or filtered back into the system. 

For this process to work perfectly, the ducts need to be the right size. If your ducts are too small, the air that your HVAC pumps will increase in pressure which will back up into the system. Over time, this will reduce the efficiency of your AC and its lifespan due to unnecessary resistance to the blower fan. 

Bigger ductwork on the other hand can handle a lot of airflow, but if they’re too big for your HVAC they won’t distribute the air evenly through your living space and your unit will end up working too hard. This might shorten its lifespan and increase your energy consumption. 

HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb can help you determine the exact size of ducts you need for your AC for it to operate most efficiently. 

How to Calculate the Correct Duct Size

Calculating the exact size is an arduous task. One of the most used methods is the HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb. In fact, even professional AC contractors might use this method to size the AC ducts in your home.

According to this rule, you need to install an air conditioner of one-tonne capacity for every 500 square feet of the floor area of your residence.

However, we advise against eyeballing it because even though an HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb is a great start, there are many factors at play here. Additionally, this rule of thumb can vary depending on the home and the HVAC system itself. We recommend contacting an HVAC professional to get the exact size of the ducts you need.

If you prefer a more hands-on approach and want to do the process of sizing out your ducts yourself, there is another method that is a lot more precise. The problem is that it’s also very complex and requires some knowledge and serious brain power. 

The formula will require multiple exact numbers, such as:

• Square footage of your home
• The size of your AC unit
• Airflow velocity
• Friction loss
• Your HVAC’s unit static pressure

As you can tell, there is a lot of technical talk (no one said it was going to be easy), so grab a pen and paper, your trusty old calculator and strap yourself in because it’s time to start crunching numbers:

1. Check the plate on your furnace to see how many British thermal units (BTUs) it produces. This number needs to be divided by 10.000.
2. Multiply that number by the airflow of your furnace which is measured in Cubic feet per minute (CFM). This number depends on the type of furnace: a natural draft furnace produces 100 CFM, an induced furnace produces 130 CFM, and a condensing furnace produces 150 CFM.
3. Divide this number by 10 and you’ve calculated the airflow that your HVAC unit permits.
4. Multiply the length of your ducts with the width to calculate the duct size. As an example, if the size of your vent is five by nine inches, the CFM is 45 per vent.
5. Divide the CFM per duct by the complete amount of CFM of the furnace.
6. Multiply the length of every room with the width to calculate the square footage of each room.
7. Divide the number of ducts by each room’s square footage.

Generally, a room of about 100 square feet or smaller requires one vent. For bigger rooms, you might need upwards of 3 vents.

If this seems overly complex, you can search online for an online calculator made specifically for figuring out the correct duct size. Additionally, even programmed calculators can help you. There’s no shame in that, as many HVAC professionals use these tools along with other even more sophisticated gizmos to get even more reliable calculations.

Should You Go at This Alone?

You could, and we know that designing the HVAC system in your residence will make you feel amazing. However, even if you do these calculations yourself, we still advise you to consult an expert to at least confirm these calculations. 

We’ve seen it a million times, one tiny mistake can end up costing you a lot of time and money. 

The ducts are not to be taken lightly as they can drastically influence the comfort levels in your home, the lifespan of your HVAC unit, and most importantly, your energy expenditure. So in order to keep things running smoothly without spending a fortune on electric bills, make sure that you get this calculation appropriately done.

Everything Your AC Needs

Who would have thought that AC vents play such an important role in your HVAC system and in keeping your home cool? This is why you cannot afford any mistakes while sizing your ducts because let’s face it – do you want your unit to go bad or pay an astronomically high electricity bill?

The calculation is the hard part, so if you want to play it safe, we recommend you contact an HVAC company. They can send a professional to your address who can calculate the right duct size in record time. 

After all, HVAC professionals have done the same calculation countless times and for them, it’s really second nature at this point. 

If you don’t want to rely on HVAC duct sizing rule of thumb, and you don’t want to play a mathematician, contact Aztil AC for any air conditioning trouble you might have. We’ve got a team of experts who can help you size your AC ducts properly and help you get optimal airflow in your home.

Aztil AC is a company you can trust. We’re available 24/7 in Palm Beach, FL, and we can help provide you with everything your AC needs in record time, at an affordable price.

Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com

Most air conditioning units these days don’t require much tinkering. Yet, as your AC unit starts amassing some mileage (or is airage?), you might have to prepare yourself for your first AC drain pan replacement.

We know it sounds scary, but if you’re a proud owner of a central air conditioning unit, replacing the drain pan is one of those necessary survival skills – similar to how changing a tire is for car owners.

Additionally, being familiar with the condition of your drain pans can help you spot other issues before they become too much of a problem for mere mortals to handle (that is, people who aren’t licensed HVAC professionals).

So if you find yourself in such a pickle, here’s everything you need to know about AC drain pan replacement and how you can do it yourself.

What is a Drain Pan?

For the uninitiated, your air conditioner cools the air using the magic of the evaporator coils. Located inside your indoor and outdoor units, they are cooled when refrigerant circulates back and forth between them.

At the same time, a fan is constantly pulling in warm air from the inside and cooling it by forcing it over the evaporator coils. The cool air then recirculates back into your living space or your office. Pretty cool, eh?

The byproduct of this process is condensation. That’s why the drain pan exists – to capture all that humidity and excess water and remove it from your air conditioner unit.

Now, depending on the type of your AC, you might have upwards of two condensate drain pans. The primary condensate pan collects condensation that sometimes drops from the evaporator coils. The secondary drain pipe is the extra line of defense and is there to ensure that the primary one doesn’t overfill. 

Is an AC Drain Pan Replacement Necessary?

A drain pan is one of the things you should monitor since they don’t last forever and are prone to issues. For example, if your AC has two, you should periodically check if there is excess water collecting in your secondary pan. This is usually a sign that the primary drain pan is not working properly.

Excess water, in general, usually points to a bigger problem. There might be a clog between the drain pan and the area that drains liquid back into the main system, or the pan itself could be slightly tilted to one side. 

In any case, you should never let the water sit too long in your drip pan. It could lead to mold, and even worse, it could attract insects (especially in places like Florida). 

Take a look at your drip pan and if you see any corrosion, you’re due for an AC drain pan replacement. A corroded pan might develop cracks which can then cause significant water damage.

Things You’ll Need

First thing first – you’ve got to do your homework. 

Before you start the dreaded process of an AC drain pan replacement, you’ll need to have the new pan ready. Start by finding out the exact make and model of your air conditioner – you should have no trouble tracking down the replacement part online.

To change your drain pan, you’ll only need a few simple tools – a wrench, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. We also recommend having a bucket at hand and a pair of gloves (we’ll get to why later).

How fast and difficult the AC drain pan replacement goes depends solely on the type of air conditioner you have. 

In certain air conditioner models, both drain pans will be attached via either clips or screws. But, with some models, a primary pan might be welded in place so you’ll only be able to remove the secondary one. 

In the worst-case scenario, though, a single drain pan will be welded in place.

If you come across any welded drip pans, chances are they’re attached to the main part of the system. Don’t attempt to remove them! We can’t stress that enough as you can hurt yourself or cause damage to the AC system itself – or both. Instead, call a licensed professional and have them deal with the issue.

If there is water in the pan and you’re afraid of it overflowing, use a device such as a sump pump to buy yourself some extra time while you’re waiting for an HVAC expert.

Now, if your AC doesn’t have welded drip pans, you can proceed to the AC drain pan replacement process itself.

Removing and Installing a Drain Pan

The AC drain pan replacement is pretty simple if you follow these steps:

1. Cut off the unit’s power supply.
2. Detach the front panel. This part doesn’t require any tools as the panel can be removed by either pulling it away from the unit or pushing it upwards.
3. Unscrew the screws that are keeping the pan in place. If it’s connected using clips, simply detach the clips.
4. Disconnect the drain line found on the corner of the pan. You can easily loosen and remove it with a pair of pliers or a wrench.
5. Finally, attempt to slide out the drain pan gently. If you nudge it towards the inside of the AC, it might help it slide out easier. If there is water in the pan, proceed with caution (especially if there is mold in the water). Use a pair of gloves while gently lifting out the pan. Have a bucket ready to avoid spilling too much.
6. Install the new pan by simply sliding it into place. Then reattach the drain line, screw in the screws, or attach the clips and you’ve completed your first successful AC drain pan replacement.

Bonus Tip: :Post-Op Checkup

If you want to keep your AC running in tip-top shape, take extra care of it even if the AC drain pan replacement was a success. Remember, how we briefly mentioned more serious issues that could be causing excess water? Now is the time to see if they’re going to pop up.

If after a few days you see the drain pan is full again, maybe it’s a refrigerant leak that caused your evaporator coils to freeze. In such a case, you’ll almost always also experience decreased cooling power as well. So if you see ice on your evaporator coils and feel the power of the AC decreasing, chances are it’s happening due to a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue and you should call a certified professional right away.

Alternatively, if you’re constantly emptying out drain pans, a clogged drain pipe could be a prime suspect. After all, it can easily get filled with debris or dirt. It’s an easy job for a professional, but for the majority of people (the mere mortals), it might be a lot harder to do than doing a simple AC drain pan replacement.

May We Lend a Hand?

That wasn’t hard, wasn’t it? At the very least, we hope you learned a bit more about how your trusty old air conditioner system operates.

However, don’t think that all of this is a wasted effort if it turns out to be a more severe problem. Doing the AC drain pan replacement yourself can provide you with an insight into the overall state of your air conditioner. Thus you’ll be more prepared to know instinctively if anything goes wrong.

If you still don’t feel comfortable replacing the pan yourself or you’ve run into problems along the way, feel free to contact Aztil AC. We’re available 24/7 in West Palm Beach, FL and we also provide regular maintenance if you want to make sure your air conditioner stays in excellent shape at all times.

Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com

Let us set the stage: it’s a hundred degrees outside and you’re sitting back enjoying the day. Suddenly, your AC stops working due to an AC unit fuse problem. Why does this always happen in the summer, when you need your air conditioning the most?

The simple answer is that high temperatures are kryptonite for all electrical components, including air conditioner fuses. You might as well accept that this is a problem you, unfortunately, can’t avoid. 

The best thing you can do is to prepare yourself for this moment by learning how to troubleshoot most AC unit fuse problems and what to do when trouble comes.

What’s the deal with fuses?

In short, air conditioner fuses protect your unit from more serious types of damage. Your fuse will blow to protect the condenser if more amperage than your AC unit can handle tries to pass through. 

Do note that your AC is rated for a certain amperage. The fuse is made to handle just the exact amount of amperage that your air conditioner is rated for. 

So it’s important to use the fuse that matches your unit’s rating. Too big of a fuse, it can let through more amperage than your AC can handle and you’ll end up with a fried unit. On the other hand, the fuse will blow more often if it’s too small.

What kind of fuse should you use?

Let’s say you’ve got an emergency with your AC, and you need to replace the AC unit fuse as quickly as possible but you’ve only got a smaller one at hand. In that case, you can use it, but just remember that it’s not a permanent solution. 

In most cases, AC systems use TR-type fuses. You’ll find both the size and type of fuse written on the fuse itself. If the writing is not there, you can find out the exact amp rating on your ACs rating plate.

Can’t find any ratings? You can just put in a 20 amp (the lowest rating for AC units) HVAC fuse. That will buy you enough time to figure out the correct rating.

If by chance the fuse blows right away, abort the mission. It means that the fuse is either rated higher or there is a more serious problem like a short in the wiring. 

If that’s the case, shut down the breaker, turn off the thermostat, and wait for a professional to arrive. While you wait, we can only suggest a hand fan to keep the heat at bay.

How to check if an AC unit fuse has blown?

If you notice that you can no longer operate your AC unit, chances are you’ve got a blown AC unit fuse. Still, you need to check if it’s just the fuse or a more serious problem. 

We recommend you use a voltmeter to make this entire process quicker (voltmeters also look pretty cool which is a plus). 

A quick word of warning: use extreme caution when doing any of the following steps in troubleshooting your AC system. If you’re uncomfortable working with electricity, maybe it’s best that you call a professional.

Now that’s out of the way, here’s how to check if a fuse is blown:

1. Locate and open your disconnect. The disconnect is the gray box mounted next to the outdoor unit. Find it and open the cover.
2. Open the cover that protects the wiring. There’s another cover in the disconnect, once you open it, you’ll be able to see the wiring.
3. Find the wires. There are two wires carrying 110 volts each that you need to locate: incoming (labeled as line) and outgoing (labeled as load).
4. Set the voltmeter and connect the leads. Set your meter to the voltage setting. The display should read 0 volts. Next, take your voltmeter’s leads and connect them to the screws (lugs) of your disconnect. You need to connect the red lead to the black line wire and the black lead to the white line wire.
5. Check the reading. If your voltmeter displays any number between 220 and 240, that’s good news as it means there’s power coming from the disconnect into your air conditioner fuses. If there’s no reading there might be an issue with the breaker panel and you’ll need to call a professional.
6. Test the load. If the previous test went well, just repeat everything on the load side of the fuses. Once again, the sign that everything is working well is a reading between 220 and 240. If there is a voltage reading on the line side but not the load side, bingo! You’ve got a blown fuse.

‘’But what if I don’t have a voltmeter’’, you ask?

We get it – not everyone carries a voltmeter in their pocket at all times, and that’s ok. You can still troubleshoot your AC unit fuse issues without it. Go down to your favorite Target or store of choice, buy a few dollars’ worth of fuses, and install them to check if they’re the problem. 

Replacing your air conditioner fuses

Onto the main course: replacing those suckers. First, you’ll have to remove the old fuses (duh!). Here’s how:

1. There are two types of disconnects: ones that house the fuses in the same place as the wiring and ones that house the fuses in the handle. If you have the latter type, you’ll need to pull out the T handle to access the fuses.
2. Next, pull out the handle to stop the power. We recommend shutting down the breaker to your air conditioner because there will still be power flowing to the disconnect and one can never be too safe when toying with electricity.
3. If the fuses are in the handle itself, you can start removing them, if not use the pair of pliers with insulated handles (we can’t stress this enough).
4. Put every AC unit fuse back into its place, and turn everything back on. Voila! You’re a true handyman now because you replaced your first set of fuses.

What to do if your AC still keeps blowing fuses?

So you’ve done everything right and you’re still running into issues? Chances are the issue lies somewhere else. This usually points to a more serious problem and if you don’t treat it, you’ll have an ex-air conditioner on your hands.

The cause could be any of these:

1. Faulty capacitor: this component helps regulate the current so if it malfunctions, it causes your unit to blow fuses.
2. Loose components: electrical components can become detached or wobbly in high temperatures.
3. Circuit malfunction: if your breakers keep tripping and fuses keep blowing there might be too much amperage in the power line. The issue could be anything from your power supply to your fuse box.
4. Dirty filters: high temperatures can exacerbate the problem of dirty filters twofold. Your unit will work harder at a higher temperature and as a result, fuses might go boom.

Keeping it cool

Whatever the final result, you can’t deny that playing around with air conditioner fuses wasn’t fun. At the very least, learned a crucial skill that will help you as an HVAC owner (especially during the summer).

Best case scenario, it all went well and it was just an issue of a random fuse. But if it’s not the fuse that caused all the headache, we strongly recommend you call a professional instead of playing around with electricity any further.

Contact Aztil AC if you need to restore your air conditioner to life at an affordable price. We’re available around the clock in Palm Beach, FL and we can find out what’s exactly wrong with your trusty old HVAC.

Call (888) 729-8452, or shoot us an email at info@aztilac.com.

The Southeastern United States is famous for its blistering-hot summers, which means you are going to heavily rely on your AC unit to keep you cool.

But what do you do if you wake up one day and see ice on the air conditioner pipe outside?

For your AC unit, summer is very demanding as it’s working around the clock. So it’s not uncommon to run into problems with it right when you need it the most. 

AC pipes can freeze due to either:
1. Inadequate airflow over the evaporator coils
2. Low refrigerant levels

Fret not – this is a common occurrence. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to fix it.

Inadequate airflow over the evaporator coils

The first thing to check when you spot ice on the air conditioner pipe outside is the airflow over your evaporator coils.

This part of your AC holds the refrigerant – fluid responsible for absorbing the heat from the air. 

The way it works is quite simple: once air gets pulled in through the vents and passes over the evaporator coils, the refrigerant absorbs the heat and removes it through the condenser. The result of this process is the nice cool air that reaches your home through ducts and vents.

Pretty neat, right? But how does this cause ice on the outside AC pipe to form?

If the airflow to your evaporator coils is obstructed, the refrigerant is trying to cool the air that’s not there. Since there is not enough heat to balance the low temperature of the refrigerant, the excess cold air will cause ice on the air conditioner pipe outside.

What’s impeding the airflow?

Surprisingly, many things could be bogging down the air circulation in your AC system. Here are the most frequent problems:
1. Obstructed vents: your HVAC system pretty much relies on the vents to pull in the hot air. These can be blocked by dirt, and in some cases, furniture or wall coverings.
2. Clogged air filters: air filters covered in dirt or lint are a common culprit of many AC problems. A dirty filter will obstruct the amount of hot air that reaches the evaporator coils.
3. Dirty evaporator coil: if the evaporator coil is clogged, the buildup will reduce the surface area that the warm air can reach. In this case, the refrigerant won’t be able to cool the hot air, and the heat will end up back in your home. If you think that the ice on the air conditioner pipe outside is bad enough, in some cases, the dirt on your evaporator can freeze as well. Yikes!
4. Leaky air ducts: what happens if your air ducts are leaking or collapsed? Much of the air will escape into your attic instead of reaching your HVAC system.
5. Blower fan issues: the fan inside your air handler pushes the cooled air throughout your home. If there are any problems with it, the circulation of air in and out of your AC unit will be impeded. This will lead to ice on the air conditioner pipe outside.

Finding the culprit

Luckily, troubleshooting this particular problem won’t be that complicated. We recommend breaking it down into three steps:
1. Check all the vents in your home: That goes for both supply and return vents. Thoroughly examine if they’re clean and unobstructed. Since both types can be open or closed, make sure they’re all in the open position.
2. Check the air filter: Many people forget to do this one. You need to replace these periodically for the best air circulation and indoor air quality. Open the vents and inspect the filter. If it looks dirty and covered with lint, it’s probably about time you replace it. Your air will be cleaner and you might fix the problem of ice on your outside AC pipe.
3. Test the blower fan: It’s easy and it involves adjusting your cooling settings. First, turn off your thermostat by changing the switch from COOL to OFF. Next, look for your fan settings and switch it from AUTO to ON. Your fan will continue working even though the AC is not in a cooling cycle and the warm air will blow over the evaporator coils. Ultimately, running your system on these settings for around 3-4 hours will most likely thaw the ice on your outside AC pipe.

Now, if you did all of that and the ice on your outside AC pipe is still frozen solid, it’s time to call a professional. The real problem could be much more serious and will require a licensed HVAC professional to troubleshoot successfully. 

Low refrigerant levels

The ice on the air conditioner pipe outside can also be caused by low refrigerant levels.

If your refrigerant levels are low, there won’t be enough fluid to balance out the warm air blowing over the evaporator. Once that happens, the moisture on the coils will freeze and the pressure will drop, which leads to formations of ice on your outside AC pipe.

If you’re thinking you can replace it just like you replace the oil in your car, that’s not going to work.

The level of the refrigerant in your system should always be constant. Because it travels through a closed pipe system, it stays in the evaporator coil. Refrigerant simply recirculates through your system and is cooled and heated in a closed loop.

If your refrigerant levels are low, that’s bad news because it can only mean that there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in your system.

How to know if your refrigerant is leaking?

Here are a few telltale signs that your refrigerant is leaking:
1. You notice a drop in cooling power: if the levels of your refrigerant are low, it will take a long time for your home to cool. If you notice that you’re constantly adjusting your thermostat and lowering temperatures, you probably have a leak.
2. The air from your vents isn’t as cool as it should be: feel the air coming from the vents. If it’s warmer than normal, that’s a bad sign.
3. Your energy bill is higher than usual: if your AC is no longer efficient due to a refrigerant leak and you’re overcompensating by using lower temperatures, you’ll notice it in your power bill. Compare your bill to the one from a similar timeframe last year and see if it’s significantly higher.
4. You hear hissing sounds coming from your AC unit: if there are any holes in your coils, you’ll hear a hissing sound. 

What to do about it?

Unfortunately, a refrigerant leak is harder to resolve than a clogged air filter as there are no simple DIY fixes. Even if you want to get rid of the ice on the air conditioner pipe outside on your own, we don’t recommend it.

The best thing to do in this situation is to call HVAC professionals who will inspect your entire system in record time and repair your refrigerant leak. 

Contact Aztil AC if you need 24/7 emergency services at an affordable price. We’re available around the clock in Palm Beach, FL and we also provide regular maintenance if you want to make sure your AC is always as new.

Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com.

Having leaks anywhere in your home is never a good sign. That also applies to seeing any water dripping from your AC vent. 

Whatever the cause may be, it’s best to start immediately and find out what the issue is until it becomes a bigger problem than it already is. 

Thankfully, when it comes to AC systems, it could be something you can fix yourself if you know what to look for.

So, here are the common reasons why water might be dripping from your AC vent, along with some easy fixes you can do to stop it.

1. Plumbing or roof leak

When you spot water dripping from your AC vent, we bet that your first thought is that it’s a problem with your AC system. Before you troubleshoot any further, it might be a good idea to first rule out plumbing or roof leaks.

In reality, it’s not uncommon to find a roof leak above your duct that has made its way into your system and subsequently, into your AC vent.

2. Improper installation

If you just got your brand new AC system installed and it’s already leaking, keep calm and contact the person/s who installed it. 

It could simply be the case of the unit or the drain pan tilting slightly to the side, which causes the condensation collected inside the unit to drip. 

For those of you who had the system for a while, read on to find out other probable causes.

3. Air leak around the vent

Most commonly, water dripping from your AC vent results from leaky air vents. If the air is escaping around the grates of your AC vents, it will cause a buildup of condensation that will inevitably start dripping all over the place. 

You can test if this is the case by feeling for any air coming out of the sides of the air vent. If the air comes from anywhere besides the grates, you’ve found the cause of your problems.

The fix is straightforward: get some caulk and seal those air leaks.

4. Dirty air filter

Dirty air filters can mess up the regular operation of your AC. As you may already know, condensation ends up in a dripping pan. However, dirty air filters can cause the water to freeze over the evaporator coils. 

How does that lead to water dripping from the AC vent?

Well, once you turn off your AC, that layer of ice will start melting and subsequently draining from your vents.

You can fix this problem by swapping out the air filter. We also recommend melting the ice on your coils with a hair dryer to help the unit return to peak performance as quickly as possible.

5. Rusted drip pan

If swapping out the filter didn’t help, maybe the dripping pan is to blame for all that water coming from your AC vent. Power off and remove the unit’s access panel and check the state of the drip pan. If it’s rusted, you should replace it.

Once your new drip pan arrives, you’ll have to disconnect the old one from the drain line with a pair of pliers. Next, you should unscrew or unclip the pan and carefully lift it out. 

The good news is that installing the new one is the reverse process, so it can be done real quick.

An important thing to note is that if your drip pan is welded instead of screwed on, you likely need to call an HVAC professional.

6. Uninsulated air ducts

Do your air ducts run through your attic? If they do, remember that most attic spaces are either poorly insulated or not insulated at all. Again, this can cause excess condensation that will leak through your air vents.

First, remove the grating from the air vents and check the status of your insulation. If you don’t see any or if the existing one has heavily deteriorated, go to your nearest and dearest home improvement store and pick up some R-11 fiberglass batt insulation.

The rest of the remedy is pretty simple: just wrap the air duct insulation around your ductwork and voila, you’ll stop the water dripping from your AC vent.

7. Clogged condensate drain line 

Without proper maintenance, different components of your AC system can get dirty or clogged. Because the condensate drain line is outside of your home, the problem can get out of hand fairly quickly. 

Maybe it got clogged with debris, dirt, mildew, or all kinds of critters that are just looking for a home. 

To unclog it, you can manually remove a part of the debris and then top it off with a distilled vinegar solution. However, we recommend using a powerful shop vacuum to clear even the most hardcore debris out there.

8. Refrigerant leak

This one can be a bit tricky. If you see water dripping from your AC vent combined with bad cooling performance or decreased airflow, chances are you’ve got a refrigerant leak on your hands.

Unfortunately, exposing yourself to refrigerants can be very harmful so we don’t recommend tackling this problem alone. Since your safety is a top priority, you should let professionals deal with this serious issue.

9. Malfunctioning condensate pump

A condensate pump is responsible for collecting the water and pumping it outside. So if you’ve tried everything and there’s still water dripping from the AC vent, then this gizmo is the most likely culprit.

What you need to do is locate the pump and find a float switch. Play around with it until you manage to engage the pump. You might free up the switch that’s stuck due to dirt or scum buildup. If the switch is not very consistent, you can use bleach to clear out the bucket.

If the pump still isn’t working, it likely is beyond saving. You can replace it yourself but it might be more simple to contact a professional.

A helping hand

In cases where there is water dripping from your AC vent, you can fix the issue yourself by swapping out the filter or getting caulk from Home Depot. However, some problems are a bit more challenging. 

For anything that seems outside your skill level, we recommend you find an HVAC professional to save yourself some serious time. 

Contact Aztil AC if you need 24/7 emergency services at an affordable price. We’re available around the clock in Palm Beach, FL, and we also provide regular maintenance if you want to make sure your AC keeps you cool all summer long.

Call (888) 729-8452, or send an email to info@aztilac.com.

Being handy is a vital skill for all homeowners. It helps save not only time and money but also makes you feel useful and productive around the house. Nevertheless, it is one thing to be DIY savvy and another to be stupid. The demarcation is a fine line that must be clearly understood and accepted by all. 

A leaking faucet? Yes, you can handle it. All you need to do is either tighten it or change the washer. Conversely, installing the air conditioner or dishwasher? Refrain from the DIY bug, and please call a professional. So clearly, some things around the house, but NOT ALL. 

If the condenser of your HVAC system or the central heating and cooling system needs installation, you should err on the side of caution and call a professional.

What Is The Condenser?

The condenser is the big bulky unit installed outdoors and connected to the indoor unit. When you talk about installing the condenser, you are talking about replacing the entire outdoor unit. 

Consider the size of the unit and just take a moment to appreciate its cost. Now think about what will happen if you install it incorrectly. If you are okay with the repercussions of any mistake you might make, we have a few handy tips on AC condenser installation.

Tips On AC Condenser Installation

If your heart is set on completing the AC condenser installation yourself, the following tips will come quite handy:

1. Begin by opening a charge account at a hardware store near you. Replacing the AC condenser requires a lot of supplies like refrigerant gauge, ampere meter, and other specialty tools. Having a charge account will make things easy. In addition, you will also need a basic tool kit if you don’t already have one.
2. One vital piece of information to always keep at the back of your mind is not to cut the refrigerant lines from the old condenser until you are all set to fix the new one. It is necessary to bear this in mind to avoid moisture build-up in the refrigerant line as that can cause issues later. Also, if your old refrigerant line is damaged, you will need to install a new one. So you should have sufficient length of that too.
3. When the refrigerant line is cut, the refrigerant will flow out. Hence, there needs to be a refrigerant recovery system handy. Letting the refrigerant evaporate into the air violates the Clean Air Act of 1995 and causes legal troubles. The fine for this mistake runs into thousands of dollars. Also, the refrigerant is very costly and not always readily available (as with Freon). If you can recycle it, there’s nothing better than that.
4. If you have installed a new refrigerant line, you will have to test it for leaks. If there are leaks, your job is not yet done. To check the new refrigerant lines for leaks, fill them up with inert gas, pressurize them, and wait for one hour. Now check the gas pressure in each line. If there is a drop, there is a leak. Try to identify the source of the leak by coating the line with soapy water. The water will bubble at the point where the gas is escaping.
5. Now that your new condenser is in place, there is a slight chance that your conscience tries to get you thinking about replacing the R-22 refrigerant (which is now banned) in your system with R410-A (the recommended coolant). Unfortunately, even after a complete line replacement, this is still something that you cannot do. Your AC is made to work with a specific refrigerant. Changing it will damage the complete unit, leaving you with a useless piece of junk on your hands. The only way to move to the recommended refrigerant is by replacing the complete cooling system. There is no other way around it.

Can I Install The AC Condenser On My Own?

We think the question should ideally be, “Should I install the AC condenser on my own?” For “Can I,” the answer is, “Yes, you can.” But for “Should I,” the answer is “No, you should not.”

Why You Should Not Install The AC Condenser On Your Own

The only scenario where you can install the AC condenser independently is if you are a certified HVAC technician. If not, there is much that can go wrong. A couple of reasons why you shouldn’t tackle it are:

1. You have limited knowledge of the safety precautions. What you do know is what you have garnered from either hearsay or the YouTube videos. At best, you are just working with a fair assumption. There is still a lot that you don’t know, which could put you and the safety of the equipment, both at risk.
2. Suppose your lack of proper training and expertise leads to a mistake. In that case, the manufacturer will not honor the warranty agreement because it states explicitly that a professional HVAC contractor or technician must do all installation, repairs, and maintenance.
3. Improper installation of the condenser causes numerous problems in the working of the AC. If there is a problem with your installation, you will have to pay someone first to uninstall the AC and then reinstall it … so double the expense. Moreover, if some glitch has occurred in the unit, you have to pay for its repairs (because the machine is no longer under warranty).

Bottomline

AC condenser installation by professionals may seem expensive, but buying all the specialty tools and equipment and doing the job yourself is also not cheap. On top of that, there is always a concern about something going wrong. Thankfully, the professionals are trained experts and also have insurance, so there’s not much reason to worry. But with your limited skill and knowledge, there is always a clear and present danger. So refrain from installing the outdoor unit yourself. Instead, call a professional HVAC contractor to complete the job. Pay them, sit back, and relax this summer in the cool confines of your abode.

Day in and day out, the air conditioner works relentlessly to make our indoor space cool. Sometimes all the hard work leads to glitches or malfunctions, which necessitate resetting the AC. Fortunately, this is a task you can accomplish yourself and need no help. Although we understand that when you don’t know much about the heating and cooling system, locating the reset button itself might seem like a humongous task. Therefore, we decided to take matters into account and educate you about the basics of the AC reset safety switch. 

Today, we shall discuss the circumstances in which you should reset the AC, the location of the reset safety switch, and how to use it. So read on to broaden your horizons and learn something new.

What Is The Reset Switch?

When the AC malfunctions, it could be because of an internal problem where some components do not respond as they should. So, all you need to give your AC a fresh start, which is precisely what the Reset switch is for.

Where Is The Reset Switch On AC?

The reset button is usually located on the condenser unit or the outdoor unit. First, look for it on the exterior of the system. Pay special attention to the bottom edge, which is near the ground. The button is red in color and easily discernible. So spotting it should not be very difficult.

If the button is not on the outside of the machine, it is probably located inside the outdoor unit. Typically, you should find it behind the service panel. However, before beginning your ministries, make sure to flip the circuit breaker, so the system has no power.

What If There Is No Rest Button On The AC

Okay, so it may happen that there is no rest button on your AC. In that case, don’t panic. You just need to be a little more creative. Here is what you need to do in such a scenario:

1. Shut off the power supply to the outdoor unit. The switch for it will be in the shutoff panel adjacent to the unit.
2. Now go to the circuit breaker box and shut it off by tripping the breaker switch. This will kill the power of the unit.
3. Next, unplug the unit from its power supply board to completely disconnect the system. Your AC is no longer receiving any power from anywhere.
4. Wait for half an hour, then plug the unit back in.
5. Set the thermostat to “cool.” Then, in the reverse order, switch the breaker back on, and finally, the external power supply.

Your AC with no rest button is now reset and ready to roll.

When To Use The Rest Safety Switch On AC

There is no hard and fast rule about using the reset button. Ideally, you can try to troubleshoot any problem by resetting the system. We recommend you try it if your AC is not working properly after a power outage or a power surge. Alternately, you can go for it for any other HVAC issue for which your HVAC technician advises you to try resetting the system.

Resetting the AC will not cause any harm. It will simply start the system fresh. So you have no need to worry about anything.

How To Reset Safety Switch On AC Unit?

If your AC has a reset button, the process is as simple as switching on a light. All you need to do is:

1. Locate the reset button.
2. Press it.

The unit will now do its own thing. You don’t have to do anything except wait a few moments before trying to switch on the AC. Doesn’t that make things simple? And isn’t it as simple as switching on the light?

What Happens When The AC Is Reset?

Now let’s talk about what happens when the AC is reset. It’s like restarting your desktop or laptop. So a series of actions are initiated. Each component shuts down completely and then restarts afresh. There are times when the electrical components of the cooling system need a reboot, and that is what the reset safety switch on the AC does for it. In most cases, whatever problem was persistently occurring before will automatically resolve itself with the reboot, and your AC will start working normally once again.

Is It Okay To Reset The AC Frequently?

If you have to reset your AC more often to make it work normally, there is a deeper problem. Your cooling system needs to be checked out by a professional HVAC technician. The problem will persist until the root of the problem is discovered and resolved. Moreover, ignoring it may simply make it escalate – the more significant the problem, the more expensive and time-consuming the repairs and vice-versa. 

You need to ask yourself whether you are ready to foot a hefty bill and live without the AC? As it happens, timely redressal of issues keeps the repair expense in check and the AC downtime minimal.

Annual Maintenance For Keeping AC Issues At Bay

Some of you may not realize it, but it is the absolute truth – Preventive annual maintenance of the AC is the best way to avoid most issues, even those that call for resetting the AC. Maintenance deals with checking all the components and cleaning the system inside out so that dust does not play havoc with it. Ensure your AC gets this one little TLC year after year just before the season begins.

Bottomline

Resetting the AC is a simple task. You don’t have to depend on anyone to do it for you. Instead, you can do it yourself. All you need is to figure out where the reset button on your AC is and press it once. But take care if your AC needs to be reset often. There is some problem that is best checked out by a professional technician.

Residents of West Palm Beach can contact Aztil Air Conditioning, an elite force of air experts for top-quality HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installation. To book an appointment, call +1-888-729-8452.

High temperatures alone don’t make for an uncomfortable indoor space. It is the addition of humidity that makes things unbearable. It makes one feel sweaty and clammy all the time, and there seems to be no respite from the heat. The good news is that when the AC is switched on, it helps get rid of excess moisture, which is when things start looking up, and you feel better and cooler. 

The excess moisture the AC extracts collects in a drip pan, and from there, it is expelled outdoors via a tubing called the drain pipe or the drain line. There are times when we, as professional HVAC contractors, are asked, “how much water should be in the AC drip pan?” Today, we decided to answer this concern along with a few other related ones through this article. So read along for the knowledge and insight.

The Drip Pan

The drip pan is often also called a drip tray. As the name indicates, its shape resembles that of a pan or a tray, hence, the name. Generally, the drip pan is a shallow tray and is not meant to hold a lot of water. Whatever condensate collects in it keeps flowing outside through the connected drain line.

How Much Water Should Be In An AC Drip Pan?

There is no fixed amount of water that should be in the drip pan. As long as it is contained within its edges and not overflowing and dripping down, all is well. If water is dripping down, it means either the pan has leaks, or there is a blockage in the condensate line preventing the outflow of water.  

Causes Of Leak In A Drip Pan

Age-related deterioration and corrosion are the two main culprits that lead to leaks in the drip tray. If your Ac is old or you are not regular with the maintenance of the cooling system, you should be on the lookout for both these issues.

Signs Of A Leaking Drip Pan

Here are some signs that indicate leaks in the pan:

1. Water puddles or wet spots under the unit and along the walls.
2. You can also see the water dripping drop by drop from the air handler.
3. The drip tray will not be full, yet damp spots occur under the unit and on the walls.

Fixing A Leaking Drip Pan

If your drip pan has developed holes and cracks through which the condensate is escaping and creating a mess, you have a choice between two solutions:

1. Plug The Leaks – The first option is to completely dry out the drip pan, locate the leak or leaks, and plug them in using industrial-grade glue. This solution works best if the gaps are small. If they are large, you have no choice but to go with the below-given second option.

2. Replace The Drip Pan With A New One – If the gaps or holes from which the condensate is escaping from the drip pan are large, the only viable option is to replace the tray. You can check the specifications of the present one and buy its exact replica and switch them out, or you could call your HVAC contractor to do it for you.

Sign Of A Blocked Drain Line

The single most obvious sign of a blockage in the drain line is that the drip tray will be full to the brim. If the collected condensate were flowing out continuously, there is no way that would happen.

Unclogging A Blocked Drain Line

Removing the blockage from the drain line is not very difficult. Even homeowners can do it themselves. All you need is to do the following:

1. Cut the power supply to the unit by unplugging it from the power source.
2. Locate the drain pipe and gently pull it away from the point of attachment to the AC to disconnect it.
3. Take your home’s wet/dry vacuum cleaner and suck out the stuck matter.
4. Now pour some diluted bleach (not if the drain line is made of PVC or ABS plastic) or vinegar into the pipe to kill any mold that may be present inside the tubing.
5. Now using a rag soak up all the stagnant water in the drip tray.
6. Reconnect the condensate drain pipe to the AC, and your line is now all clear.

How Best To Avoid Water Accumulation In Drip Pan

If you wish to avoid water accumulation in the drip pan :

1. Ensure Regular AC Maintenance – Maintenance is the time when the AC technician gives your cooling system a thorough once over. At this time, they clear out the condensate drain line and also check the condition of the drip pan. If they find the tray is worn out, they will warn you about the same and recommend the necessary remedial action. If repairs are done in time, there is no good reason why the drip tray would become full and overflow.

2. Keep The Unit Clean – The prime culprit behind blockages are dust, dirt, debris, and other particle matter that flow down the drain line along with the condensate. If you limit the entry of these elements, there is no way a blockage would form in the drain line. So, keep both the indoor and outdoor units clean by dusting them often.

Conclusion

The drip pan in the AC is meant to hold the condensate that drips down from the evaporator coils and pass it outdoors through the tubing called the drain line. Therefore, some amount of water in the drip pan is absolutely okay. You should only be concerned if the water from the drip pan is overflowing. If that is the case, ask your HVAC technician for help. Above all, ensure your AC gets a regular tune-up because this one important activity will keep such problems at bay.

If you reside in South Florida and have yet to schedule the AC maintenance, contact Aztil Air Conditioning today. We are professional HVAC contractors providing top-of-the-line HVAC services at affordable costs. To book an appointment, call +1-888-729-8452.

The fact that indoor air quality is a matter of concern for the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is a shock to many people. They are of the mindset that polluted air exists outside their homes and offices and not inside. What they forget is that pollution or air contamination happens in many forms. Yes, you wouldn’t have factories and vehicles releasing smoke and fumes inside your home. Instead, you will have chemicals and fumes from the cleaning agents, deodorants, etc., along with mold, bacteria, viruses, and other such things to worry about indoors. 

The good news is that it is easy to improve indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are ways and products that help maintain it in the healthy range. All you need is to incorporate changes and invest in the right product. One such revolutionary product that can help improve indoor air quality is the REME HALO whole-home air purification system. Today, we shall talk about it and learn how long it takes to work or show results.

REME HALO Air Purifier

REME HALO is a whole-home air purification system installed in the air supply ducts. This purifier helps neutralize stale air and unpleasant odors. Also, it eliminates bacteria, viruses, mold, pollen, pet dander, and other microorganisms present in the air. As a result, the indoor air is no longer laden with particulates, microbes, and gasses, making it fresh and healthy.

How The REME HALO Air Purifier Works

The hero of the REME HALO air purifier is ionized hydrogen peroxide. The REME products turn the moisture present in the air into hydrogen peroxide plasma using a process called photohydroionization. This plasma has an electrical charge and works like a magnet. As it moves through the ducts and the air handler, it makes particles stick together. Once attached, these air contaminants are chemically altered and neutralized. Since the sticking together increases the overall particle size, it becomes easy for the air filter to capture and remove them from circulation.

How Many Square Feet Does REME HALO Cover?

A REME HALO air purifier connects to your home or office’s HVAC system and can efficiently purify 3,000 to 6,000 square feet. The system is always turned on even when the air handler isn’t working. This leads to a plasma buildup which gets released when the air handler turns on. If you don’t like the smell that results from this release, you can always ask the technician to adjust the shroud that controls the plasma output level. The other option is to program the thermostat to circulation mode to continuously keep the air moving and dissipate the smell.

How Long Does REME HALO Take To Show Results

Typically, REME HALO will start showing results within the first 48 hours of its installation and operation. Nonetheless, this timeframe is subject to the size of your house, the quality of insulation, products you use, your habits, etc. For a more marked difference, you may have to wait anywhere between 5 to 7 days. This is typically when those who suffer from severe allergies due to poor indoor air quality will start seeing some relief.

Is Hydrogen Peroxide Released By REME HALO Safe?

Often people wonder whether introducing more chemicals to their indoor space is safe or not. Before we answer the pressing question of the safety of hydrogen peroxide released by REME HALO, allow us to ask you a question. Have you ever wondered how many chemicals you use on a daily basis that deteriorate the indoor air quality? So if you introduce one more that helps you get rid of all others, what’s the harm in that? 

Now, we come back to the question of the safety of hydrogen peroxide. Put your mind at rest as the hydroperoxides released by REME HALO are 100% safe. The truth be told, REME HALO only mimics a process that otherwise happens naturally. The plasma of hydrogen peroxide occurs naturally in the Earth’s atmosphere, where it makes different particles attach to each other. 

The hydroperoxides produced by these air purifiers are well below the level they occur outside, naturally. Also, they are much lower than the FDA guidelines. Suffice to say, you can rest assured that these air purifiers are absolutely safe for use in homes and other buildings.

Benefits Of Installing A REME HALO Air Purification System

The REME HALO air purifier is 99% effective in neutralizing bacteria, viruses, and microbes present in the air. The icing on the cake is that it kills 99% of pathogens that land on surfaces in your home or office. Just to give you a small example of its efficiency and effectiveness, when you sneeze, it can desensitize the airborne droplets within seconds, thereby preventing the germs from spreading.

Additionally, the REME HALO air purification system significantly reduces airborne particulate matter like dust, dander, pollen, mold spores, microbes, and other allergens. By eliminating harmful triggers, people with breathing problems will experience greater relief. Similarly, it minimizes odors, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), etc., and gives the complete interior a fresher feel.

REME HALO works well with all types (makes and models) of ducted heating and cooling systems. So if you have an HVAC system or a central heating and cooling system, you need not worry about compatibility. 

How Long Does Its Cell Last?

REME HALO is a low-maintenance air purification system. Its cells have a long life (between 18,000 hours to 25,000 hours), so once installed, you don’t have to worry much. They will easily work for 2 to 3 years. As you use it, you realize how silent it is in operation, and moreover, it is a small unit placed inside the duct, so it never becomes an eyesore.

Bottomline

REME HALO is a revolutionary whole-home air purification system that can effectively decontaminate indoor air and surfaces. With high efficiency of 99% and significant results within a few days, REME HALO is a godsend for those who suffer from allergies due to the triggers present in their homes. It wouldn’t be off the mark to say that the system is your own indoor air doctor.

Summer travels, and road trips under the hot sun are fun only inside a cool and comfortable car. Even a short trip to the office, a friend’s place, or a shopping spree becomes an ordeal with a broken car air conditioner. A logical first reaction when facing an issue is to curse the day. Since all that does is allow us to vent out frustration (but that does make one feel a little good), the next step is to take the car to the mechanic for AC repairs. Rarely do we ever take time out to understand the problem and its cause. 

One of the most common problems with car AC is that it suddenly starts blowing hot air. Have you encountered something similar and wondered, “Why is my AC blowing hot air in my car?” If you have and are still looking for answers, this is exactly where you will find them.

Reasons Why The Car AC is Blowing Hot Air

The usual or the most common reasons why the AC starts blowing hot air in the car are:

1. Refrigerant Leak – Refrigerant, also known as the coolant, is the most vital element that aids the cooling process. It is a liquid that flows through the car’s air conditioning system, expanding and contracting as it gets rid of heat and humidity from the cabin.

The unique thing about the refrigerant is that it is simply recycled over and over again. Unless there is a leak, the level of the refrigerant will not decline. So one does not have to recharge it unnecessarily. 

When there is a refrigerant leak, its first sign is that the car AC starts blowing warm air. Unfortunately, identifying the leak’s source is difficult because the refrigerant changes from liquid to a gaseous state and vice-versa, and the leak can happen at either end. Don’t expect to see a wet spot or a puddle under the car where the leak exists because when the antifreeze is exposed to the environment, it evaporates. Therefore, expertise, special skills, and appropriate equipment are prerequisites to locating the leak. Only people trained to detect them will be able to spot and solve the problem. A reputable and reliable car mechanic is your best bet in resolving the problem to complete satisfaction.

2. Condenser Problem – The heat that the refrigerant extracts from the car cabin needs to be expelled. This is the work of the condenser. By expelling the heat, it ensures the refrigerant remains cool. If the condenser fails to dispel the heat, the cooling cycle breaks down, and the AC starts blowing hot air inside the car.

In a car, the condenser is located between the grate and the radiator. The air that flows through the grates assists in the cooling process. If these grates get blocked for some reason, like road debris, etc., the air cannot reach the condenser. 

Sometimes an accident can also damage the condenser, forcing it to malfunction. So if your AC woes began immediately after any kind of trauma to the car, you might be dealing with a broken condenser.

3. Compressor Is Broken – The compressor is the very heart of the AC. This crucial component ensures the circulation of the refrigerant through the car’s air conditioning system. Any issues with the compressor will stall the cooling process as the coolant will no longer be able to reach the condenser for the cooling cycle to begin — failing which, the car AC will blow hot air into the cabin.

Usually, compressor problems crop up after long periods of inactivity. For example, you don’t use the car AC through the winter season but come the summers, your very existence (or at least it feels like it) depends on it. So what should you do? One option is to get the car’s AC inspected by the mechanic before using it after a long gap. The other thing you could do is keep the compressor active by using the defrost setting.

Despite all care, the compressor may still fail. It usually happens in old cars. When you face a similar situation, take your car to the mechanic.

4. Trouble With The Cooling Fans – The condenser works in combination with a pair of cooling fans to lower the heat of the refrigerant while it is circulating. If these fans stop working, the temperature of the refrigerant will increase, and the AC will start blowing hot air.

The cooling fans may stop working due to a severe hit by roadside debris, an accident, an electrical problem, or the blowing of a fuse. In all of these cases, only a car mechanic can save the day.

5. Electrical issues – Car AC wires do get frayed. It may happen due to age-related deterioration, poor quality of wires, some oversight, or simple overheating. The cooling will be affected if the air conditioner’s electrical system is damaged. Instead of cold air, you may have to face the wrath of a hot blast of air on your face.

Generally, electrical connections are checked when every other problem is ruled out. Since the connections need to be proper and precise, only a good car mechanic would do. 

Diagnosing electrical issues comprises a detailed visual inspection of the wiring and the car’s fuse box. If nothing apparent jumps out, each connection is tested to find the culprit.

Bottomline

When your car’s AC blows hot air inside the cabin instead of cold air, it means something is wrong and requires immediate attention. Since the only person who can provide the proper assistance is a professional car mechanic, the best thing you can do is switch off the car AC and drive the car to the nearest one. Or, if it is too hot to drive without the AC, you can always get the car towed to them. Now, the ball is in the court of the mechanic. Since you now know of all the probable causes, understanding the issue won’t be a problem. Allow the mechanic to work his magic to figure out the precise cause and rectify the problem.

Florida is located in the southeastern United States. In the north, it is bordered by Georgia and Alabama, while the rest of the state is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico in the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Strait of Florida to the south. As a result, Florida enjoys a subtropical climate, with summers being long, hot, and humid. This hot and humid climate makes owning a good and reliable air conditioning unit necessary.

Most people looking to upgrade their old ACs or buy their first one often have a tough decision regarding which type of air conditioning unit is suitable for their home in South Florida. Since the variety available is mind-boggling, the decision becomes a little tricky, especially when the investment costs a pretty penny. You don’t want to be wrong, and you want to get full value for money. So we’ve decided to lend you a helping hand in choosing the most appropriate AC for your abode in South Florida.

Mini-Split System For Apartments And Condo Units

If you reside in an apartment complex or a condo unit, which does not have inbuilt ductwork and has limited space, your best option is to go for a ductless AC. What you need is either a mini-split system or a window AC. 

Advantages Of A Mini-Split System –

A mini-split is a ductless system and offers the following advantages:

1. These units do not need too much space. The air handlers go up on the interior walls and occupy no floor space. Depending on space availability, the outdoor unit can either be mounted at ground level or on an exterior wall.
2. They are energy-efficient systems, giving you similar results as any other AC with the same size and SEER value. So you need not worry about high energy bills or compromising on indoor comfort.
3. Mini-split systems cost less than traditional HVAC systems. Hence, they are way more pocket-friendly.
4. Since mini-split systems are ductless, you need not worry about the care and maintenance of the ducts. This in itself is a major saving.
5. Mini-split systems give flexibility in operations. Each air handler can be run at a different temperature, and those that are not required can be kept shut.

Disadvantages Of A Mini-Split System –

Its disadvantages include:

1. You will need one air handler per room. So if your residence has several rooms, the installation time will increase as more air handlers will have to be installed. This may even increase the cost of installation.
2. Mini-split systems are a little costlier than window air conditioners. So your budget may need a slight adjustment.

Advantages Of Window ACs –

The main advantages of window ACs are:

1. Window ACs comprise a single unit. There is no indoor and outdoor unit.
2. These units are energy-efficient. So if you buy the right-sized window AC and take care of it, it will not add unnecessarily to the power bills.
3. Window ACs offer the flexibility of operations as well. Each unit can be run as per desire without impacting the operation of others.
4. Window ACs are easy and probably the cheapest to install. As a result, their installation cost is not very high.

Drawbacks Of Window ACs –

Let us now see what are the drawbacks of a window AC:

1. You will need to install a separate unit for each room.
2. Window AC is installed in a window that opens on the outside. So you will no longer be able to open or close the window as the AC will now block it.

Heat Pumps For Independent Homes

If the residents of independent homes are conscious of their environmental responsibility, they can opt for heat pumps. These systems are best suited for places that enjoy a moderate climate, and South Florida happens to fit the bill. In a heat pump, the same system provides both heating and cooling by transferring heat. In summer, the indoor heat is transferred outside, and the reverse happens when the weather turns cold.

Pros Of Heat Pumps –

Let us have a peek at some of the advantages of using a heat pump:

1. The same unit provides both heating and cooling. So you don’t have to invest in two separate systems.
2. These systems allow homes to lower their carbon footprint. Heat pumps consume only around a third as much electricity as regular baseboard electric heaters and significantly less energy as compared to gas or oil furnaces.
3. Heat pumps have a significantly longer life span. Where regular ACs are good for 10 to 12 years, a heat pump will serve you as long as 50 years, provided you give it timely care and maintenance.

Cons Of Heat Pumps –

There are a few things that one may consider working against a heat pump. These are:

1. Heat pumps are expensive systems. Nonetheless, there is good news in store. States and electricity companies provide special rebates to promote green initiatives. So with adequate research, you can buy one for a reasonable price.
2. Installation of heat pumps is slightly tricky. It can take longer and be expensive. Therefore, you may need to accommodate for the time and also budget for its higher installation cost.

Final Thoughts

The right air conditioner for your home in South Florida is the one that fits your budget, meets the needs of your home and family, is easy for you to maintain, and lives up to your expectations. So don’t go on hearsay. Instead, speak to the HVAC experts in case of any confusion. With their help and also by reading helpful posts like this one, you can make the right choice.

Aztil Air Conditioning can help the residents of South Florida. We will be glad to answer any questions you may have regarding upgrading the old heating and cooling system or buying a new one. Helping you get full value for money from your expensive investment is our ultimate goal. In that regard, we provide a full suite of top-quality HVAC services comprising of installation, repairs, and maintenance at affordable prices. Call us at +1-888-729-8452 and book an appointment today.

One critical piece of equipment that is used throughout the year is the HVAC system. The air conditioner runs throughout summers, and the furnace sees you through the cold season. In essence, as a complete unit, one or the other of its units runs continuously. Consequently, taking care of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system ensures no disruption in your comfort. One big question that most people are confused about and ask us often is, “How often should I get my HVAC unit serviced?” If you have been wondering about the same, this post will make for an enlightening read.

What Is The Meaning Of Getting The HVAC Unit “Serviced?”

In the HVAC industry, diverse terminology is used. Therefore, getting confused is okay. What is important is to clear your doubts, so the confusion does not persist. Terms like “servicing” or “tune-up” mean the same thing, and that is “maintenance.” 

Sometimes maintenance is also referred to as “Annual Maintenance” or “Annual Preventive Maintenance.” Again, all of these terms mean the same thing: an annual inspection and cleaning of the AC or the furnace combined as a single service.

Why Is HVAC Unit Servicing Important?

The servicing of the HVAC system is by no means a wasteful activity. It is crucial to the well-being of your system. To understand how it is beneficial, here is a list of gains that you are most likely to see after every servicing:

1. The cooling or heating of the system becomes more effective. The indoor space will take less time to achieve the temperature set on the thermostat.

2. The system’s efficiency increases, due to which the monthly power bills will sharply decline.

3. Your system will ask for fewer repairs, and when it does, it will rarely account for something significant (financially or otherwise).

4. The unit will become reliable and will not give you any unpleasant surprise in the form of a breakdown during the peak of the season.

5. The inside of the unit receives thorough cleaning because of which you no longer have to worry about the ill effects of dust or mold inside the HVAC system.

How Often Should I Get My HVAC Unit Serviced?

Every HVAC has two systems – one for heating and the other for cooling. These systems are the furnace and the air conditioner or the heating and cooling systems. Effectively, when one system is no longer needed, the other takes over.

Although it is a known fact that the AC is used far longer than the furnace, the need for servicing both remains the same. In an ideal scenario, you should ensure the servicing of each before beginning to use it in the season. It means the AC servicing is best done during spring and the furnace servicing during autumn.

Regarding timelines, the HVAC system should get two services every year. Do not confuse “Annual Maintenance” or “Annual Servicing.” The term “annual” is used when specifically talking about the AC or the furnace and not the complete HVAC system. 

Unlike HVAC systems, heat pumps are a single unit that provides both heating and cooling. These, too, need bi-annual servicing. The clear inference one can draw is that all comprehensive heating and cooling systems should get two servicings each year – one for the heating part and one for the cooling part. And just to reiterate, the servicings should be done and over with just before their first use in the year.

What If Servicing Is Not Possible Before The First Use Of The Season?

Many of us cannot schedule the servicing of the HVAC before the first use in the season due to extenuating circumstances. If that is the case with you, do the next best thing, which is to schedule it for the next possible date. Do not by any means forgo it altogether. Remember, delayed servicing is still better than no servicing at all.

Who Should Do The HVAC Servicing?

HVAC is a significant investment. You need a trusted and professional contractor or technician to care for your expensive system. Yes, they do not come cheap because they charge as per the industry standards, but when you engage their services, you can rest in the knowledge your unit is in safe hands.

The work ethics of professionals guarantee top-quality service each and every time. They own the work they do and will compensate you for any harm a mistake made by them inflicts on you or your system. Therefore your safety and system safety is always guaranteed.

But The Other Technician Is Charging Well Below The Going Rate, And Many People Use Him?

You might often come across technicians who charge way less than others. It is very tempting to engage in their services, especially when you see others using them. If you are so strongly tempted, ask to see their license, insurance, and certification papers. We are sure they will fail to come up with either one or all of them. Allowing them to work on your HVAC system will be at your risk. Also, HVAC manufacturers may rescind the warranty on your new HVAC system if the contractor or technician is not licensed. So, be well aware of these facts.

Summing Up

The servicing of the HVAC system is the surest way to ensure that the unit is in good working condition. The tune-up received during the process will increase its efficiency and effectiveness and bring issues that are still in their infancy to the forefront. Timely redressal of such problems will prevent unwarranted breakdowns. Therefore, bi-annual or six-monthly servicing of every HVAC system is essential.

If you don’t remember when you got your HVAC system serviced in West Palm Beach, call Aztil Air Conditioning today. We are a full-service, licensed, insured, and certified team of air experts who have a solution for all your HVAC needs. To book an appointment, call us today at +1-888-729-8452. This will be the first step in a long and fruitful contractor-client journey.

Owning an air conditioner is bliss during summers. Nevertheless, you need a reliable air conditioning contractor to enjoy its long-term comforts. This person or company will take care of the little needs and even the more significant issues that may crop up in the system. It’s natural for air conditioners to ask for an annual tune-up and some repairs during their lifetime. The need arises because the units work non-stop during summers to cool the indoor space. Hence, it would be foolish to ignore this basic need for an air conditioning expert.

A wise move is to choose your AC contractor beforehand. This way, when you need their services, you will not lose valuable time selecting one and suffer unnecessarily. To make it easier, we plan to arm you with 3 air conditioning tips for choosing the best air conditioning contractor.

Who Is An AC Contractor?

An HVAC contractor is a business or a company whose service technicians (HVAC engineers) handle tasks like installation, maintenance, and repairs of residential and/or commercial heating and cooling systems.

Why Is Choosing The Right AC Contractor Important?

The health and life of your AC, as well as the comfort of the people indoors, depends on how professional the AC contractor is. With a professional contractor, you never have to worry about:

1. The quality of service.
2. Being scammed.
3. Charged overmuch.
4. Bad attitude.
5. Irresponsible behavior.

The same cannot be said for those who claim to be professionals but are indeed scammers waiting to make a quick buck. If you question them, they either get verbally abusive or make you feel inferior by talking big and ridiculing your limited knowledge. God forbid, but if they land up harming your cooling unit, they will never admit to their mistake. In comparison, a professional AC contractor always stands by the work done by their technicians and carries insurance to ensure the clients never have to bear the consequence of a mistake made during the course of their work.

Accept You Cannot Take Care Of All The AC Needs

As a commercial or residential building owner, one thing you need to accept is that you cannot address all the needs of your air conditioner. Unfortunately, you lack even the most basic training for it, not that it goes against you. It’s just that we all are equipped for different works, and accepting this core fact will increase the life of the air conditioner. Even if the YouTube video makes things look easy, refrain from any DIY activities until and unless the manufacturer of the AC recommends the same. Remember, taking the screwdriver in your hands can nullify the warranty on your new AC. So being a jack of all trades is to your peril. Such temptations should be avoided at all costs.

Three Tips For Choosing The Best Air Conditioning Contractor

Here are 3 tips that will narrow the pool of prospective HVAC contractors and help you come up with a sure-shot winner.

1. Always Look For A Licensed And Insured AC Contractor – A professional contractor is one who has taken permission from the state to operate in the area. This permission is known as the “License.” Scammers typically tend to fly under the radar and refrain from getting a license. When you ask them for it, they will make excuses. On the other hand, a professional contractor will readily show it to you or may even have it boldly displayed in their office.

The other thing of prime importance is “insurance.” A professional contractor will always carry adequate insurance to ensure the well-being of their employees and safeguard the interests of the clients that may come in jeopardy due to a work-related mistake. Insurance helps them recover from the financial implications of any occurrence. Unprofessional technicians (so-called) will never waste money on insurance. Therefore, even for their mistakes, they will try and pass the blame to the customer.

2. Demand For Certification And Experience – HVAC technicians need to be NATE certified. This certification is a guarantee that the said engineer is thoroughly trained and capable of handling the services related to heating and cooling systems. You, as a customer, have every right to ask for proof of this certification instead of simply taking their word.

Being NATE certified is not enough. You also need to ensure the technician is experienced. Now, all technicians cannot always be experienced as there is always an influx of fresh blood. So, the new joiners must always be accompanied by an experienced mentor. Together, certification and experience are a winning combination.

3. Always Check For Reviews And Ask For Feedback – In the internet age, checking for reviews is something everybody can do from the comfort of home. All you need is a smartphone or laptop and obviously an internet connection. You can check for reviews on the company website, but don’t limit yourself to just that. Check what people have to say about them on other independent review sites as well.

Next, ask your neighbors whom they use and how their experience has been with them so far. Using a local company is always a good idea as they will have their office in your locality. It will make visiting and checking them out easier.

Conclusion

The task of looking for an air conditioning contractor can be daunting. Nonetheless, if you start your search before the need actually arises, you have enough time to make a well-informed decision at a leisurely pace. A couple of things that you need to look for are a license, insurance, certification, experience, and local presence. With due attention to these aspects, you will never go wrong in your choice.

In South Florida, homeowners and commercial building managers can place their trust in Aztil Air Conditioning for all their HVAC needs. We are a licensed and insured professional company with a certified and experienced staff. We also guarantee top-quality services, even during emergencies, and ensure prompt action to all your requests. Call us anytime to book an appointment at +1-888-729-8452, as we are always open.

Most of us think the only way to lower power bills is by switching off the air conditioner. What if we were to tell you that you can cool your indoor space and avail power savings without any drastic steps? Wouldn’t that be a pleasant surprise? Today, we give you 9 steps to save energy and money on your air conditioning in South Florida.

9 Steps To Save Energy & Money On Your Air Conditioning In Florida

If you are energy conscious and also desirous of keeping the electricity bills in check, the following steps will be of great help:

1. Install A Smart Or Programmable Thermostat – The outdoor temperature is not constant throughout the day. During the early morning and late evening hours, the heat is at its peak in the afternoon. Therefore, the indoor temperature should ideally be adjusted accordingly. Unfortunately, we are too lazy to do that as it requires frequent trips to the thermostat. Nonetheless, there is an easy way out. Installing a smart thermostat allows the user to program different settings for different times of the day. There isn’t a need to fiddle with it continuously. Smart thermostats are better as they learn the user’s household routine and churn out the best energy-saving program. So the thermostat does all the hard work, and the homeowner only needs to approve the setting. 

2. Use Recommended Settings – Often, we think lowering the temperature will cool the indoor space faster. That is not how the AC works. So every time you come indoors and are tempted to lower the thermostat remember this point. The AC gives a fixed output until the desired temperature is reached. Lowering the temperature will not make the AC work faster. It will only make the AC work longer, which means greater energy consumption. Hence, always follow the recommended settings as they will give you maximum energy savings.

3. Ensure Proper Insulation Throughout The House – The quality of insulation in the building or house plays a vital role in determining how efficiently the AC works. If the insulation is poor or non-existent, The cool indoor air will escape, or the hot air from outdoors will seep inside and increase the temperature. In either case, the indoor space will not be as cool as it could be where the insulation is proper and of good quality.

4. Use The Ceiling Fan – Many homes have ceiling fans, but the occupants don’t use them, and in others, there are no fans. If there are no ceiling fans in your rooms, you should strongly think about installing them. Fans help circulate the cool air better and create a breeze effect, due to which the need to lower the temperature is significantly reduced. 

5. Cover The Windows – A lot of heat seeps indoors through the glass windows. Often you would notice the area around the windows is warmer than the rest of the house. A quick solution to address the issue is installing heavy drapes or blinds. Doing so will allow the AC to work efficiently and without any stress. 

6. Ensure AC Maintenance – An efficient AC is a well-maintained AC. If you want the AC to work optimally, you should ensure it gets a tune-up before the season’s first use. This maintenance is also known as preventive maintenance, as it wards off the need for unnecessary repairs. It also helps recover the efficiency that was lost during the last season. And the thorough cleaning it receives helps eliminate any chances of dust and dirt playing havoc with the working of the AC.

7. Avoid Using Too Many Electrical Appliances – Using too many electrical appliances simultaneously in a closed space increases the temperature due to the heat they generate. Therefore, if possible, place them apart and do not use them at the same time. Switching to LED lights will also help maintain the indoor temperature.

8. Manage Indoor Humidity – Often, when the humidity is high, no amount of lowering the AC temperature will help. It will only run up the power bills. Nevertheless, you can make way for savings by managing indoor humidity. Keep the exhaust fans in the washrooms running when they are wet. In the kitchen, always use the electric chimney. Do not leave plumbing issues unaddressed. If none of these seem to help, you can exercise the option of installing a whole-home dehumidifier. It is a one-time investment but will reduce the pressure on the air conditioner.

9. Plant Trees Around The House – Giving back to the environment is also to your advantage. Strategically planting trees around the house will provide shade and give a natural cooling effect. When direct sunlight does not fall on the house, it does not heat much. Consequently, indoors are also relatively cooler, and all this helps the AC be more efficient without increasing your energy consumption.

Takeaway

Air conditioners are a necessary evil. We can’t live without them. But it does not mean we need to be resigned to paying ever-increasing power bills. Fortunately, there’s a lot we can do to keep the cooling costs low. Creating a greener environment around the house, switching on the ceiling fans, shifting to smart thermostats, getting timely annual AC maintenance done, and using good quality insulation throughout the house are just a few things that will help give your AC a little breathing space. These steps will reduce the burden of work on the AC and hence, lower the power consumption.

If you are a resident of South Florida and wish to lower your cooling costs, it’s time to book AC maintenance. The air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning are certified experts with years of experience under their belt. Booking an AC maintenance with us means you don’t have to worry about the unit’s safety. You can rest assured we shall look after your HVAC system as if it were our own. Aztil promises top-quality services with an affordable price tag. We are prompt and efficient, so you don’t have to wait endlessly. Call us any time to book an appointment. We can be reached at (888)-729-8452.