Professional Heating & Air Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

Air Conditioning Tips for the Coming Summer

Wednesday, April 30th, 2014

Louisiana summers are hot and humid, and home air conditioners are necessary to make the season pleasant. But you cannot just switch on your air conditioning when the heat arrives and expect the system to work its best. You can end up wasting money on power bills, running into numerous repairs, and receiving less effective cooling. You don’t have to spend a few hours a day working with your AC to get the proper cooling level from it, but you can take a few steps and change some habits to improve its performance during the summer. We’ll share some valuable AC tips for the upcoming season.

Whenever you need to have professional HVAC technician service for your air conditioning system in Kenner, LA, call on the team at A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning. We have technicians ready to help you 24 hours a day so you won’t have to sweat out a broken AC for long.

Tips for Better Air Conditioning Operation This Summer

  • Schedule a maintenance session: You should never miss an annual maintenance visit for your cooling system. Regular attention from an HVAC professional will keep an air conditioner working and free from unnecessary stress. This will stop your electrical bills from rising, fend off repairs, prevent a sudden breakdown, and generally extend the air conditioner’s service life. Although we advise maintenance during the spring, it’s never too late to schedule it.
  • Stay away from the lowest setting on the thermostat: How low does your thermostat go? Likely around 60°F, and that is rarely the level of cooling anybody requires, no matter the heat outside. If you put your thermostat on the lowest setting, it will force the system to work longer (no, it won’t cool down your house any faster), drain energy, and put extra pressure on the components. All this for a temperature that most people won’t even find comfortable. By raising the thermostat up to 72°F, you will have the right comfort level and save between 24% and 36% off your energy bills. (Each degree higher is a 2–3% savings.)
  • Change the air filter monthly: The air filter protects the AC from debris that enters the return vents. During regular operation, the filter will become clogged with dust, lint, hair, and other pollutants. This is enough to cause the air conditioner to strain due to low airflow, and it may also lead to icing along the coils. Change the filter once a month to keep the system efficient. (You should also change it during the off-season, but once every three months is usually sufficient when the AC isn’t running regularly.)

Start Off With Maintenance

There’s still time this spring to jump ahead of the weather and have regular maintenance done. Contact A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning and ask about our regular maintenance program, which also includes a 10% discount on parts and labor, plus priority scheduling. We’ll help keep your air conditioning in Kenner, LA healthy all summer long.

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Why Consider Ductless for Your Next AC Installation

Tuesday, April 29th, 2014

If you are considering new air conditioning installation this fall to prepare for summer, you have more options than you once did. Over the last decade, ductless mini splits have made the transition from the commercial world (they’re popular in restaurants and hotels) into the residential world. Ductless systems have some important advantages that may tilt your choice for air conditioning installation in Hammond, NJ in their favor.

You will need advice from air conditioning professionals to make the best choice for your new AC. Call A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning and speak to our comfort specialists about the options available for cooling your home this summer.

Why ductless may be the way to go

A ductless mini split heat pump works the same way that standard heat pumps do: using the circulation of refrigerant between indoor and outdoor units to move heat from one place to another. The difference with a ductless mini split is that instead of a single indoor unit connected to a ventilation system, they use multiple smaller blower units mounted in various rooms. Each blower has its own coil, and connects through the back of the wall to the outdoor unit.

Here’s how this system can benefit you:

  • No ducts! This sounds obvious, but consider the sort of problems that ducts can cause your air conditioning. Ductwork gather dirt, dust, and even less pleasant contaminants, which then blow out into your home, lowering the air quality and dirtying the space. Dirt also impedes airflow and makes the system strain harder. You need to schedule regular cleaning to make sure the ducts remain dirt-free. Any breaks in the ductwork require repairs or else the AC will lose air pressure. Ductless systems have none of these issues.
  • Zone control saves money! The individual blowers of a ductless system allow you to control the temperature in rooms separate from each other. You no longer have to cool down the whole house when you turn on the AC, only the places that require it. You’ll see a drop in your power bills when you only need to keep the air conditioning running in the spots of the house that need it.
  • Heating and cooling! Although we’ve focused specifically on cooling down your home in this post (summer is coming up, after all), a ductless mini split heat pump has the same advantage that all heat pumps have: they work as air conditioners and heaters. Their heating power is far more efficient than that of fuel-burning systems like furnaces and boilers—another way you’ll save money.

Ductless mini splits are not the ideal comfort solution for all homes. If you already have ducts in your house, you may consider installing a standard heat pump. However, for new construction projects and add-on rooms, ductless systems are great options.

Call A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule an appointment regarding your new air conditioning installation in Hammond, LA. Ductless or not, we’ll make sure you end up with the right cooling for the summer.

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Add Some Upgrades When Installing a New Air Conditioner

Wednesday, April 9th, 2014

Spring is here and that means summer can’t be far behind. Here in Kenner, LA, our air conditioning service technicians are standing by to install new cooling systems as replacements for older or more worn-out air conditioners. Now is the perfect time of year to replace your existing air conditioner, since temperatures are still mild and you won’t feel the heat during the time it takes to perform the installation. You might also want to add some upgrades when installing a new air conditioner, taking advantage of new advancements to improve your system. What kinds of air conditioning upgrades should you consider?

A brief list of some of the more popular options appears below:

 Zone Control Systems

Zone control systems are often associated with ductless air conditioning systems, though variations can easily be installed in existing centralized systems. They consist of a series of valves and shutters placed in your ductwork that divide the home into specific sections. Each section has its own thermostat and control panel, allowing you to control the temperature individually rather than heating the house all at once. For example, you could turn the air conditioner up high in the kitchen while you cook over a hot stove while leaving it off in the living room where another family member is watching TV. You can even turn off the air conditioner in parts of the house you aren’t using, helping you save money on monthly bills in the process.

Thermostats

Thermostats often make a fairly painless upgrade, since new units can often be installed in the exact same spot the old one was.  New thermostats often contain a host of attractive features, including smart systems that learn to adjust the temperature based on your regular habits, and remote activation systems that let you turn on the air conditioner when you’re away from home.

Regardless of what you have in mind, you can use a professional HVAC service to add some upgrades when installing a new air conditioner. The experts at A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning provide quality air conditioning services in Kenner, LA. Give us a call to make an appointment today. You’ll be glad you did!

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What Qualities Should I Look For In An Air Conditioning Service Company?

Tuesday, April 8th, 2014

Having too many choices can create as many headaches as having no choices at all. When you need professional air conditioning service in Kenner, LA, the most basic Internet search will turn up a ream of companies looking your business… but only a small number who deserve it. How do you make as choice between them? Get started by checking what to expect from great AC service.

When you look over possible AC service companies, there are a number of factors you can focus on that show you the company offers quality work and pure professionalism. Here are some of the qualities to put at the top of your list when deciding on which company to hire.

A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning is proud to offer some of the best service for air conditioners in Southeast Louisiana.

Look for these qualities in a professional AC service company

  • 24-hour emergency service: Air conditioning malfunctions and breakdowns wait for no man or woman. They happen at the most inconvenient times, and it will do you little good to rely on a company that doesn’t offer emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Make sure you look for repair technicians ready to jump on the job no matter if it’s 11 pm on Tuesday or 3 am on Saturday. For quick help, see how prompt AC repair saves time.
  • Extensive services, local business: Dealing with a company that offers little in the way of other services and can only perform work on a narrow range of comfort systems can be difficult and won’t give you the results you need. Dealing with a large company that covers many states can result in impersonal work where your repair and maintenance jobs are simply “the next thing on the daily schedule.” Aim to find a company between these: local and focused, but offering the same diversity of services you might expect from a large corporation.
  • Handles indoor air quality services: A company that also does work such as duct cleaning, duct sealing, and installation of air purifiers, filters, and dehumidifiers is a company with air conditioning knowledge that goes far beyond the single cabinet and the components inside it. These contractors have experience with the whole network that circulates air through your home, which makes them far more than basic repair technicians.

Since you are already on our website, take a tour of all the services we offer here at A–Professional Heating and Air Conditioning. From heating and indoor air quality to air conditioning service in Kenner, LA, we have all the comfort bases covered. (We even handle Commercial HVAC, which brings an extra layer of experience to our work.) Learn when your AC needs professional repair. Whenever you need AC repairs on the double, call us any time of the day or night.

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Air Conditioning Issues to Treat Before Summer

Monday, March 31st, 2014

We are starting to emerge into full spring weather now, with the temperatures climbing up from the 50s and into the 70s. Summer is around the corner, and before you know it you’ll have your air conditioner humming away and keeping you cool.

Or will you…? What if your air conditioning isn’t fortified for the big summer heat? If your air conditioning was struggling or showing signs of malfunctions the last time it was running, then now is the time to attend to any repair needs to make sure that your AC won’t break down in summer and leave you sweating on a hot day, waiting for emergency repairs. Customers often put off calling for AC repairs because they believe the issue is not serious enough, but delaying repairs can lead to more significant problems. Professional ac repair is essential for fixing issues and ensuring your system is ready for the season. Do a test run on your system now and see if anything seems wrong. If something feels amiss, get a jump on repairs right away.

For fast and effective air conditioning repair service in Metairie, LA, call A Professional Heating and Air Conditioning.

As you do a test run, be sure to perform an inspection of your cooling unit to check that it is operating efficiently and safely before the summer heat arrives.

Here are some issues you should contact us about:

  • Strange clicking sounds from the cabinet: Clicking noises usually indicate trouble with the start capacitor, the device that sends an electric charge to the motors to catalyze them. This clicking sound means the AC is “hard starting” and draining more power as it comes on. Reliable repairs are necessary to restore your ac unit’s proper operation. Have a technician replace the failing capacitor before it fizzles completely.
  • Water leaking: During the time the air conditioner was on vacation, the condensate drain could have become plugged with mold or other obstructions. When the condensate drain is blocked, it will quickly cause the condensate pan to overflow as water drips from the condenser coils. Call for repairs to clear and then reconnect the drain line. Addressing leaks in your cooling unit promptly helps customers maintain their family’s comfort and avoid further issues.
  • Icing on the indoor coils: If you notice any frost developing along the indoor coils, it isn’t just an effect of cool air. It can mean that the air conditioner has lost refrigerant or the coils are excessively dirty. Repair technicians can track down and seal the leak, then recharge the refrigerant, or remove the coil to clean it. (Do not scrape off the ice; this will do no good.)

Don’t wait until the heat is unbearable—prompt ac repair ensures your system is operating efficiently and keeps customers comfortable all summer long. AC systems are more likely to fail on the hottest days of the year, leading to increased demand for emergency services. Addressing issues early can help you avoid the stress of a malfunctioning system during peak heat. The length of an AC repair depends on the complexity of the problem, with minor repairs taking only a couple of hours. This means that acting quickly can often resolve issues before they escalate, ensuring your comfort is restored promptly.

Introduction: Why Prepare Your AC for Summer?

As the summer months approach, preparing your air conditioning system becomes more important than ever. In Mandeville, LA, where the heat and humidity can be relentless, a reliable air conditioner is essential for your family’s comfort and well-being. Taking the time now to schedule regular ac maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs down the road, keep your energy bills in check, and ensure your cooling system operates at peak efficiency all season long. A well-maintained air conditioning system not only keeps your home cool but also helps you save money by running more efficiently and reducing the risk of a malfunctioning ac system when you need it most. At Professional Heating and Air Cooling & Heating, our certified technicians are committed to delivering top-quality air conditioning services, so you can count on your system to keep you comfortable, no matter how hot it gets outside.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular ac maintenance is the key to keeping your air conditioning system running smoothly and efficiently. Skipping annual maintenance can lead to a host of problems, from decreased energy efficiency and higher energy bills to unexpected breakdowns and even voided warranties. By investing in routine maintenance with a trusted hvac company, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner. Annual maintenance services include tasks such as cleaning air filters and checking refrigerant levels, ensuring your system operates at its best. Our comprehensive maintenance services include cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting electrical connections, and checking all moving parts for signs of wear. This proactive approach not only helps maintain your system’s performance but also ensures your home stays cool and comfortable throughout the hottest months. With regular maintenance, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing your air conditioning system is ready to handle whatever summer brings.

Common Air Conditioning Issues to Watch For

As temperatures rise, it’s important to keep an eye out for common air conditioning issues that can impact your system’s performance. Problems like faulty thermostats, clogged air filters, and refrigerant leaks can cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and potential system failures. Electrical connections that are loose or damaged, as well as worn-out evaporator coils, can also result in a malfunctioning ac system. By addressing these minor issues early through regular maintenance and prompt repair, you can prevent them from turning into major, costly repairs. Our team of certified technicians is equipped to diagnose and fix a wide range of air conditioning problems, ensuring your system stays reliable and efficient all summer long.

Air Quality Considerations

Your air conditioning system does more than just cool your home—it also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy indoor air quality. A properly maintained air conditioner helps filter out dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, creating a cleaner and more comfortable environment for your family. Local government resources emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy indoor environment with functioning air conditioning, as it contributes to overall well-being. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to dirty air filters, mold growth, and the circulation of allergens, which can negatively impact your air quality and health. Our certified technicians are trained to inspect and clean air filters, check for signs of mold or mildew, and ensure your system is effectively removing contaminants from the air. By keeping your air conditioning system in top shape, you can breathe easier and enjoy a healthier home all summer long.

Have maintenance done as well

Spring is when you should schedule your yearly maintenance service from an HVAC professional to make sure your air conditioner is running in top condition. This is the best way to catch repair issues before they grow more serious. Your technician will identify what needs to be done and can sometimes perform the repairs on the spot.

A Professional Heating and Air Conditioning has 24-hour emergency service available when you need air conditioning repair in Metairie, LA, with emergency repairs offered any time, day or night. Their technicians are fully licensed and dedicated to customer satisfaction. Total Maintenance provides same day emergency service for air conditioning repairs, ensuring that your cooling needs are addressed promptly. Many HVAC companies emphasize the importance of rapid response times during AC emergencies, as quick action can prevent further damage and restore comfort faster. Look into our maintenance program as well it’s a cost effective way to help armor your AC for the summer.

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Hire a Pro to Handle Your Repairs and Installations

Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

We know it’s a big responsibility owning a home or commercial space, but at A-Professional Heating & Air Conditioning, we strive to make it easier on you. Whether your home’s air conditioning or heating unit needs to be replaced or your commercial units needs a repair, you can count on us to provide you with exceptional customer service and workmanship. Having a comfortable space year round is important, especially living in Hammond, LA where the temperatures can be extreme. Call us today to schedule an appointment or schedule service online.

Commercial unit residential units

 

 

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Is a Commercial HVAC Replacement Worth It?

Monday, November 11th, 2013

Commercial heating and air conditioning equipment is large and quite complex. As any commercial property owner can tell you, it is also quite costly. While investing in a replacement commercial HVAC system is certainly a major investment, there are many situations in which this is simply the best course of action. While only a skilled commercial HVAC replacement technician can advise you whether or not a replacement is necessary, there are some factors to consider which may help you determine if a replacement is right for you. Here is some information from the Hammond, LA commercial HVAC professionals at A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning which can help you recognize a need for commercial HVAC replacement on your commercial property.

In many situations, your commercial HVAC equipment can be repaired rather than replaced. Just because your system can be repaired, however, does not mean that this is the right move. Before continuing to repair your system, you should take into account the frequency with which repair needs crop up. If you find that you are often contact a commercial HVAC repair technician to resolve problems with your equipment, a replacement may actually be more cost effective, despite the upfront expense. With a new system, properly installed of course, you will enjoy a more consistent and reliable heating and cooling performance while spending less on repair services. This can help to offset the initial investment over time.

The age of your commercial heating and air conditioning equipment must also be carefully considered. While your commercial HVAC equipment may actually be working just fine, it is very possible that older equipment simply may not be capable of reaching the efficiency levels that more modern systems boast. Investing in a new system can be costly, yes, but if you can pay less money for a better performance over time then you can recoup much of that primary spending in energy savings.

To discuss your Hammond, LA commercial HVAC replacement options with a qualified professional, give A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning a call. We can answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more about the replacement options available to you.

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Why You Need a Professional Air Conditioning Installation

Monday, October 7th, 2013

A new air conditioning system is a great way to add value to your home while also protecting your comfort throughout the long, hot Louisiana summers. It is obviously important that you invest in a quality system, and that you choose an air conditioner capable of meeting your cooling demand and performance level expectations. Even so, you will never get the great performance you deserve from any air conditioning system, no matter how well manufactured it may be, if you fail to schedule a professional air conditioning installation in Hammond, LA. Here is some information from A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning regarding the importance of great air conditioning installation service.

When you work with a professional air conditioning installation technician, the work really starts even before the actual installation of the equipment. A few important decisions must be made before the work begins. First of all, you must decide what type of cooling system is for you. Split central air conditioners still lead the pack, but homeowners looking for an efficient air conditioner that can also heat their homes in the winter months are well advised to consider the installation of a heat pump. If you do not have room in your home for the bulky ductwork that a forced air distribution system requires, a ductless mini split system may be right for you.

Once you have made an informed decision about which AC to invest in, your installation technician must ensure that it is the right size for your home. If the system is too small it will fail to provide adequate cooling. Of course, if it is too large you will pay for power you do not need and your system will short cycle frequently, resulting in unnecessary wear and tear as well as an increased risk of damage. Contact a professional to handle your air conditioning installation, and get the quality service you need to keep your home cool and comfortable with confidence.

Contact A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning today to get the quality air conditioning installation services you need. We take great pride in our ability to improve the living conditions of our customers. When it comes to quality air conditioning installation in Hammond, LA, we are the company you can count on.

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Tips for Efficient Air Conditioning

Thursday, October 3rd, 2013

Keeping your home cool throughout the hottest time of the year is a goal that you share with most homeowners. As anyone that has run their air conditioner throughout the long summer season can tell you, though, energy costs can really start to add up sometimes. At A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning, we believe that no one should have to suffer through an uncomfortable cooling season due to high energy costs. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy more efficient air conditioning in your home. By taking these simple steps you can keep your home cool and comfortable without suffering sticker shock when the bills come rolling in.

First of all, it may seem obvious but is important to remember that the more your run your air conditioner, the more you are going to wind up paying in energy costs. Keep in mind the fact that temperatures tend to drop overnight. Before you go to bed, open up your windows and give your air conditioning system a rest. When you wake up, before the sun and heat can really warm up your home again, close your windows and blinds. This will allow you to trap cool air in your home, as well as helping keep the air therein fresh.

You should also supplement your air conditioning system with fans as much as possible. While fans do not cool the air the way that your air conditioner does, they do help to circulate cool air throughout your home, allowing for increased comfort and more even cooling. This can allow you to increase the temperature at the thermostat a little bit, reducing your reliance on your AC without also driving up energy costs.

By far the best way for you to increase the energy efficiency with which your air conditioner operates is to schedule routine air conditioning maintenance in Hammond, LA. This gives a professional Hammond air conditioning technician the opportunity to thoroughly inspect and tune up your entire air conditioning system, addressing any wear and tear before it can do serious damage to your system. Do not take any chances with the condition of your air conditioner or the efficiency with which it operates. Call A-Professional today for more great energy saving tips.

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When to Schedule Commercial HVAC Repair Services

Monday, September 23rd, 2013

When you own commercial property, it is your responsibility to keep that property comfortable throughout the year for all of your clients, customers, employees or tenants. Of course, when you use a mechanical system as much as you do your commercial HVAC system, you have to anticipate some operational problems from time to time. There is no way to completely avoid the need for professional commercial HVAC repair in Hammond, LA. However, you can help to minimize any damages that your system suffers as a result of these problems. Here are a few tips from the HVAC repair technicians at A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning to help you determine when to schedule professional commercial HVAC repair.

While a complete breakdown of your commercial HVAC system is a pretty obvious sign that it is time for professional repair service, it is not always going to be so clear cut a situation. One important factor to keep in mind is the efficiency with which your commercial heating and air conditioning equipment operates. If you notice a sudden spike in the amount that it costs to heat and cool your commercial property, then it is very possible that there is a problem with its operation which is resulting in decreased energy efficiency. Only a professional commercial HVAC repair technician can determine with certainty what the cause of the problem is.

You should also contact a commercial HVAC repair expert if you notice any strange noises or sounds during the operation of your system. While such irregularities may not seem like cause for immediate concern, it is very possible that such issues can indicate a much more serious problem in development. Remember, damage to your commercial heating and air conditioning equipment rarely, if ever, happens overnight. It is usually much more of a cumulative effect, and resolving any issues promptly is your best defense. Call today with any concerns you may have about the operation of your commercial HVAC equipment.

Do not take any chances with your commercial heating and air conditioning system or the quality of its performance. Call A-Professional Heating and Air Conditioning at the first sign that you need commercial HVAC repair services in Hammond, LA. We’ll make sure that any problems are resolved completely.

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