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How do I know if my AC is low on refrigerant?

When ac coolant recharge is needed, you’re paying for it with a rising electric bill. When an air conditioning unit needs ac coolant recharge, the whole system is not working correctly, and it is working hard trying to do its job of cooling your home. By ignoring the need to have ac coolant recharge to your system, you’re also damaging the system.

Here are seven indications that your system needs an ac coolant recharge:

1. Your home isn’t cooling off as quickly as it once did. With summer temperatures in Texas, air conditioners are often in overdrive, trying to keep up with demand. When it isn’t keeping your home cool, it probably needs a refrigerant and recharge, which must be done by a certified and licensed HVAC technician.
2. Vents are blowing warm air. When you turn on the air conditioner or lower the thermostat to cool the house, and warm air, maybe hot air, blows from the vents, your system could have several issues going on, but in most cases, it needs an ac coolant recharge.
3. The thermostat never drops to the desired temperature setting. When you set the thermostat to 75, but the temperature in your house never gets that cool, your system could have other issues, but the most common problem is usually the need for an ac coolant recharge.
4. A high electric bill. Yes, every summer, the electric bills go up higher than usual, your HVAC unit likely needs an ac coolant recharge.
5. Ice on the AC lines. Your air conditioning system has metal lines that carry the coolant through the system so that it cools your home. If you notice ice on these copper lines or the coils inside the unit, it needs an ac coolant recharge.  
6. Water standing around the HVAC system heater. When that ice melts off those copper lines and coils, it will puddle at the furnace part of the HVAC system. If you see water there, summer or winter, you need to call a professional HVAC service immediately and turn the system off.
7. Hearing bubbling or hissing noises. When an HVAC system has a low level of refrigerant, often, it is because it has a recharge refrigerant leak somewhere, which is creating a bubbling or hissing noise.  

Do you charge AC on high or low side?

AC coolant recharge is done on the LOW side with the hose tool that you’ll need to have the proper fitting. The fitting will be found on the suction line going to the compressor. The HIGH side fitting is found on the line that goes between the compressor and the condenser.

What side do you add refrigerant?

Okay, so you still want to do your own ac coolant recharge. It is understandable when you’re on a tight budget, trying to circumvent the cost of a professional HVAC technician. It is with extreme caution that we share this DIY information with you, and we want to reiterate that for safety’s sake, for you, your family, the HVAC system, and your home, rethink this and consider having it done by a certified, trained professional.

You will add the ac coolant recharge on the system’s LOW-PRESSURE SIDE. When you purchase the coolant and tools, there will be a hose tool that is designed specifically to hook to the low side. The high side is a different size and shape and will not work on the low side. If the refrigerant will not recharge, stop what you’re doing and call a professional HVAC technician. There could be something wrong with your HVAC system other than needing ac coolant recharge, or there could be something wrong with the can of coolant you have.

Can AC recharge in cold weather?

Yes, it is recommended to have your HVAC system checked twice a year, once in the spring before the summer heat arrives, and once in the fall before winter arrives. In the fall, if the cold weather comes sooner than anticipated, your HVAC technician should be able to proceed with the inspection and ac coolant recharge if it is needed.  The equipment and tools they have to enable them to get an accurate reading on the HVAC system regardless of the weather.

 Summertime in Texas is hot, and some years, like this year, it gets hotter sooner, and it gets hot quick. Making sure your air conditioning is working is essential not only for comfort but for the sake of not burning up your HVAC system also.  If it needs ac coolant recharge and you keep running it, you’ll find yourself having to replace the entire unit.  Always call a certified, licensed technician is the best thing you can do, even if it does cost a little more money than you want to spend. Keep your home cool with quality air conditioner recharge, call 817-477-2665 today.

How efficient is my old furnace?

A home furnace efficiency will depend on the factors we listed above. They measure it in annual fuel utilization efficiency, (AFUE), which determines how efficient a furnace is when converting fuel to heat. A home furnace that are twenty years old has an AFUE rating of approximately sixty percent. That means you’re losing as much as forty percent of heat, and the older that unit gets, the more you’ll lose. Even with perfect maintenance, a home furnace will wear out. 

Should I replace my 30 year old furnace?

As we’ve covered already, there are several factors that play a role in the life expectancy of a home furnace. So, there is no official cut-off when you need to do this, but one basic rule that applies to many expensive components in a home is: Compare another repairing cost to replacement cost. If the repair cost is fifty percent or more than a replacement, it is time to replace your home furnace. 

A home furnace that is older than fifteen years probably will cost you more to operate (energy costs) than a new home furnace. If that same unit has been giving you problems, like your gas furnace is leaking water, or other costly repairs, then yes, you should it. 

This is another reason why you need to work with a home furnace contractor that has experience and strong reputation. They can advise you on the cost of repairing your unit over and over versus replacing it and how much you’ll save with over time with your energy bills. 

How can I heat my house without a furnace?

There are ways to keep you home comfortable on a cool day, but during a harsh winter, a home furnace will feel pretty good! However, things happen, furnaces go out and you can’t get a repair technician for a day or two, the following tricks can help keep your home comfortable to a certain extent: 

After reading this piece, if you have decided it is time to replace your home furnace, there are many types on the market today.  A gas furnace with a humidifier will provide your family with proper moisture distribution throughout your home, eliminating that awful dry winter air that aggravates allergies and irritates the skin. If you aren’t sure which is better, gas furnace versus electric furnace, the first thing that determines which to get is the set up in your home.  You may not have any choice between which one to get, but if you do, factors to consider: When it comes to efficiency, an electric furnace is better. When it comes to quicker heating, gas is better. Need furnace service in Mansfield and Arlington, TX? Dial 817-477-2665 today!

How do Commercial Air Conditioners Work?

An average commercial air conditioner works similarly to a regular air conditioner on a grander scale. The process starts with the refrigerant being compressed inside of the system and pressurizing it. Hot air from outside flows through and blows the depressurizing coolant through air vents that deliver the cold air throughout the building. The coolant particles cool the resulting airflow into something of lower temperature before delivery. Each component that makes this possible are:

• Combustion chamber
• Compressors or coils
• Heat exchangers
• Motors
• Various thermostats
• Evaporator coils

While that is not all the parts, the name of each part mentioned helps paint a picture of how a commercial air conditioner works. There is also a network of powered fans and ventilation ducts that carry the cold air to the designated location. Coolant in that manner is a liquid that can be used in various other types of machinery, but upon it going through the air conditioner process is not toxic in any regard.

When Should I Replace my Air Conditioner?

For commercial air conditioners specifically, the Department of Energy does have specific guidelines that outline when a person should consider a replacement. Failing to adhere to those guidelines does not end well for the business owner and can have detrimental consequences for clients that enter the commercial building whether its the general public or individuals. While the entire system itself is highly durable, there are certain parts that at best can last around ten years and need to be replaced or repaired adequately. At max, most commercial air conditioning units can last around fifteen to twenty years with a moderate amount of care. For that matter, it is not only a question of safety to replace an air conditioner at the maximum age but also an economic solution as well. Older air conditioners tend to be less efficient than newer models and will break down more often as well. Considering that repair costs will build up and the interior of businesses will lose profits if the temperature is not adequate for customers, it is a good idea to understand what kind of commercial air conditioner you have as well as how long it lasts. 

• The thermostat display has lost power or has gone blank.
• Unusual noises are coming from the unit.
• The indoor unit has water leaking from it.
• Check the temperature and if it’s two degrees warmer than the thermostat setting, the air conditioner should be working.
• The air coming from the vents should be cold. If it’s warm or if it’s very minimal, you have a problem.
• If your air filter is dirty, it needs to be changed. A dirty air filter could cause problems including stopping the AC from working.

When it’s warmed up but your AC isn’t cooling, get help from the professionals at C&S Air, Inc.. We specialize in quality brands like the Lennox HVAC system. Find out how we can help by calling 817-477-2665.

Why is my AC running but not cooling?

Several problems could cause your AC to run but not cool. These problems range from power issues to a clogged filter to a dirty compressor or low refrigerant levels. Dirty coils or filters could be causing the problem. In that case, you notice ice buildup on the unit because the airflow has been affected. A dirty compressor can reduce airflow. Leaves, dirt and other debris need to be cleared from the compressor to keep the air flowing properly. Your refrigerant may be leaking, and over time a leak will reduce the amount of cool air flowing through the system.

How do you know if your AC needs freon?

Freon or refrigerant is essential for your AC to run properly. Refrigerant is like life’s blood for your air conditioner. If the refrigerant levels are low because of a leak, probably the most common problem you’ll notice is that warm air will blow from the vents. A leak may be signaled by hissing or bubbling noises, or you may see ice or frost on the AC, which indicates the evaporator coil is frozen. You will also notice your energy bills will increase because the lower refrigerant levels will cause the air conditioner to work harder to cool the house.

What is considered an AC emergency?

When your air conditioner malfunctions, especially in the hottest part of the year, it may be time to calI a professional for emergency air conditioner repair. You may wonder what constitutes an emergency call for repair. C&S Air, Inc. often hears questions like, “Is no AC considered an emergency?” Anytime you need something repaired promptly to avoid injury, or if health was threatened or if property can be damaged. If your AC isn’t working, especially when temperatures are spiking above 90 degrees, then it’s an emergency. Even when the temperatures aren’t excessive, the sooner you get your AC repaired, the better. This will ensure you avoid further problems. If your unit is emitting odd odors, especially burning smells, you may want to call out a technician quickly. It’s possible your system has an electrical failure or has overheated and may actually have burned.

How much does emergency AC repair cost?

Emergency air conditioner repair costs will vary, depending what repair is being made. While a service call during business hours will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, an after hours call may double that amount. Along with the service call, you’ll also pay for the repair itself, as well as parts. Replacing a condensate drain tube could cost as little as $20, while it might costs as much as $1,900 to repair the compressor. In some cases, HVAC professionals will have set fees that include both labor and repairs. Ask the professionals beforehand what their rates are.

Emergency commercial AC repair near me

When your business’ HVAC system needs to be repaired, you’ll want to get it repaired quickly. Not only do you want to ensure your employees are comfortable, you want to make sure any equipment or materials that need to stay at a certain temperature aren’t affected by a malfunctioning AC or heater. You’ll also want to make sure the professionals you call are qualified to work on larger units. If you need emergency air conditioner repair for your commercial property in Mansfield and Arlington, TX, the experienced professionals at C&S Air, Inc. are the ones to call. You can reach us by calling 817-477-2665. 

Often, businesses have their HVAC systems on their roof. If you have a rooftop HVAC system that needs to be repaired, you may also want to get commercial roofing services to come out and check the roof.

There are two types of high-efficiency filters for paint booth ventilation. One is a paint booth exhaust fan installation that captures over-spray before it enters the general environment. The other filter is an intake filter that catches dirt, dust, insects, and other contaminants before they enter the paint booth.  

What is a downdraft spray booth?

A downdraft paint booth ventilation delivers clean air down from the ceiling from the roof and exhausts on the floor. The purpose of this downdraft is to create clean air to enter the paint booth, making it a healthy and safe environment for the person painting. It also ensures a clean air quality for a flawless finish, free of debris, dirt, and dust. 

How does a downdraft paint booth work?

The overspray is exhausted with the downdraft paint booth ventilation regardless of where the painter is spraying and keeps the airflow from crossing over the painter or the item being painted so that it is exhausted. The process pulls the overspray down and away instantly and ensures that the overspray doesn’t cover the painter or the freshly painted item.   

Why do spray booths operate at negative pressure?

Paint booth ventilation function at negative pressure to prevent the fine mist from airborne paint entering the general workplace. The air pressure is slightly lower than the surroundings, which draws air into the paint booth. 

What does positive air pressure mean?

Regarding paint booth ventilation, positive air pressure is increasing the filtered air inside the cleanroom than what is surrounding space of the cleanroom. There are various falling levels of positive air pressure from the cleanest room with the highest pressure to the airlock room. 

How do you measure airflow in a paint booth?

There are two basic methods for testing a paint spray booth operation:

1. Airflow testing.
2. Worker exposure to spray paint discharges testing.

Face Velocity Testing Air Flow

There must be enough airflow in the paint booth to overcome any overspray out of the spray gun. Testing the paint booth ventilation’s face velocity, a velometer is used along with a thermo anemometer and vane anemometer at the spray paint booth face, using a simulated grid on the paint booth’s face.

Capture Velocity Testing Air Flow

Capture velocity is the true air movement measurement effective in holding the paint spray. This is where the airflow is emitted at the breathing zone of the operator.

Worker Exposure Testing for Booth Air Flow Effectiveness

The true measurement of the airflow’s effectiveness whether the protection for the operator is protecting him/her from the paint spray particulates and solvents. If the exposure to the operator is within acceptable terms, OSHA Compliant or other limits, they deem the spray booth to be in proper performance. 

Again, refer to a qualified contractor that is knowledgeable of OSHA requirements as well as any local laws. You can also refer to OSHA.gov website for detailed information. Need ventilation for your paint booth in Mansfield and Arlington, TX? Call C&S Air, Inc. at 817-477-2665 today!

How Often Should You Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced?

So just how often should you have your AC serviced and when is the best time to do it? What if you have a brand new unit? The experts still agree that even if you have recently installed a new AC unit, it should still be serviced once a year. Ideally, you should have your AC looked at by a professional in the spring before the summer season rolls around. Annual AC maintenance is even more important if your unit is 5-10 years old. Air conditioning maintenance frequency needs to be maintained more strictly the older your unit gets to avoid failure which brings us to our next topic.

What Happens if You Don’t Service Your Air Conditioner?

Maybe you haven’t had your AC serviced in a couple of years and don’t really notice a difference. It is still cooling your home down adequately but have you been keeping an eye on your energy bills? They will tell the true story. The fact is that your AC will probably still work to keep your home cool if you don’t get it serviced but it will have to work harder to do so. On average, your AC will lose one percent of its energy efficiency every year you don’t have it serviced. That doesn’t sound like a lot but if you run your AC a lot in the summer that can add up to a lot of money. Regular maintenance will also extend the life of your unit.

Why is AC Maintenance Important?

Aside from efficiency and function, you should have your AC serviced for the comfort of your home. When filters are clogged or other systems aren’t working optimally, it can lead to uneven cooling in your home. Some manufacturer warranties require that you have your unit looked at every year and not doing so may void your warranty.

What is Included in AC Maintenance?

Now that you know how important AC maintenance is you may be wondering what it entails. Check out the following list of common AC maintenance services:

• Thermostat Calibration – Making sure your thermostat is working properly and that it has not been installed near heat sources.

• Electrical Connections – Tightening and inspecting all electrical connections.

• Drain Cleaning – Maintenance will almost always include cleaning the condensate drain line to prevent clogging and leaks.

• Air Filter Service – Cleaning or replacing the air filter for maximum efficiency and safety.

What Does an AC Tuneup Include?

AC tune-ups are designed to not only maintain the function of your unit but keep it working like new. It typically includes cleaning and removing debris from the condenser coil, tuning the compressor, testing and topping off refrigerant levels, wiring inspection, making sure the amperage levels of your blower are right, lubrication of all moving parts and other services.

Work with Professionals

Above all, when choosing an AC service provider, you should always go with a licensed and certified professional. Working with HVAC companies who lack these credentials can void your manufacturer’s warranty and may be detrimental to the unit itself. That is why it is best to hire experienced professionals. We offer full air conditioner repair and maintenance in Mansfield and Arlington, TX here at C&S Air, Inc. and we are a fully licensed HVAC company. You can count on us for complete AC and HVAC maintenance service and much more. Call us today at 817-477-2665!