When did you replace your HVAC’s air filter last? Unfortunately, this essential task is something that is often overlooked by homeowners. Since air filters are an integral part of your AC, replacing filters should be a part of your air conditioner maintenance checklist. A filter is responsible for your home’s indoor air quality, trapping contaminants, allergens, and various other indoor air pollutants. It prevents safety hazards and fire hazards as well.
If your HVAC unit is in need of a tune-up, a repair, or a replacement, call Skylands Energy. Our team of professional HVAC contractors is NATE certified, and they deliver superior heating and cooling service. Their skills and training ensure that your home’s air conditioning or heating system is working optimally.
Our friendly technicians know the best strategies to achieve a comfortable home. We guarantee high-quality services that fit your budget.
During an air conditioner maintenance service, we’ll make sure to look out for any developing issues. This way, these issues are addressed early on, reducing the potential for a significant repair expense down the road. Our services aim to increase your comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and more. Call us to set up your appointment now.
Your Air Filter & Air Conditioner Maintenance Bridgewater NJ
The air filter performs many vital functions. It is crucial that air filters be changed regularly to fulfill these functions correctly. This article will discuss the importance of changing your HVAC filter regularly.
Dirty Air Filter
Your air filter is often made of a spun fiberglass material. In some cases, it is made up of pleated paper or cloth. A cardboard frame usually encloses the filter. With use, this fine mesh becomes denser and denser with particulates.
Airflow is unable to flow freely with a dirty air filter. When there is an obstruction, your A/C’s blower fan strains to push air. This blockage results in uneven room temperatures and inadequate cooling. Therefore, it is crucial to clean or change your air filter regularly.
Extended Lifespan
The dense buildup in your dirty air filter decreases air flow. This blockage makes your HVAC system less efficient. It also causes other heating and cooling components of your AC to overstrain to help air push through the buildup. Your system might eventually experience system failure when this happens.
Every machine has an expected lifespan. However, your air conditioner won’t last long without regular professional central air conditioner maintenance. Air conditioning preventive maintenance checks are essential as professional technicians will make sure that every part of your AC is working correctly. These checks include cleaning or changing your air filter when needed. Having routine maintenance will help you prevent costly repairs and early replacement. More importantly, it will extend your unit’s lifespan. Be sure to search for “air conditioner maintenance near me” to find a reputable heating and cooling specialist in your area. Only a professional truly knows how to clean a central air conditioner to achieve the best results.
Maintaining Energy Efficiency
A clean air filter means that heated or cooled air easily travels through the furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner in your home. On the other hand, your HVAC system tends to work harder when contaminants clog the surfaces of your air filters. If you do not remedy this immediately, your HVAC unit’s efficiency will steadily decline.
An inefficient HVAC system means that you will be paying more for your power. A dirty air filter reduces your AC’s efficiency by as much as five percent to as much as fifteen percent. Therefore, cleaning your air filter often will ensure that you are receiving optimum thermal comfort.
Fewer Repairs
Dirty air filters can lead to a multitude of problems including overheating and other issues. One of the common problems it can cause is a frozen evaporator coil. Because of the reduced air flow, warm air does not pass through the cold evaporator coils. Ice will eventually form and may cause your air conditioner to leak. These damages caused by a clogged air filter can lead to system failure unless serviced immediately.
Moreover, a frequently malfunctioning system is an unnecessary inconvenience. Repairs, parts, and services are costly. Cleaning or changing your dirty air filters are vital if you want your HVAC system to remain both efficient and economical at the same time.
Better Indoor Air Quality
Air quality largely contributes to how comfortable you feel at home. A clean HVAC filter means that you and your family are receiving high-quality, healthy indoor air. After all, an air filter’s primary responsibility is to trap contaminants including dust and pollen.
With that said, a clogged filter with accumulated particles loses its protective function. Harmful debris is re-circulated back into your home instead of filtered out. These contaminants can cause severe respiratory illnesses or skin irritations. It can also affect the electronics in your home because the dust and dirt that your system disperses shorten your electronic’s lifespans. A clean air filter promotes a healthier indoor air quality for everyone in your household.
Preventing Mold
The thick debris on your dirty air filter attracts condensation. This dampness is a perfect environment for mold or bacteria growth. Mold will damage the overall function of your HVAC system. However, what is alarming is the harm that it can cause to your body and home.
If you are experiencing nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, and eye irritations without any apparent cause, then you might want to check your HVAC filter. Mold can also cause skin irritations and severe allergies. Also, this fungus can damage the walls and floors of your home. Prevent mold growth and all mold-related issues by keeping your HVAC filters clean.
Conclusion
Typically, you need to clean your HVAC filter every month during heavy use. During off-peak times, change or clean it at least every three months. Regularly changing your air filter means your heating and cooling unit is a more efficient and cost-effective system.
When you are looking for reliable cooling and heating companies, call Skylands Energy. Our experienced and skilled HVAC technicians can evaluate your air conditioning equipment and offer you solutions at honest prices.
We specialize in HVAC services including tune-ups, repairs, and installation services for your air conditioning system. You can also schedule a free consultation. Our friendly technicians will be happy to answer all your HVAC questions and concerns. Call us now!
Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville, and these zip codes: 08807, 08836, 08869, 08876, as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!
The post Why HVAC Air Filter Replacements Are So Critical appeared first on Skylands Energy.
from Skylands Energy https://skylandsenergy.com/hvac/air-conditioner-maintenance-bridgewater-nj/
via IFTTT
It is always a hassle when your AC malfunctions. A broken cooling system means that you are left feeling hot and sticky especially now that the scorching summer heat is upon us. It is only when this happens that you realize how much you rely on our air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable. One of the most common air conditioning malfunctions experienced by homeowners is water leakage from their 
The condensate drain plays an essential role in your air conditioning system. It is responsible for removing the condensation produced by your A/C’s evaporator coil. Dirt and dust can accumulate along the drain pipe’s walls. If this is not cleaned correctly, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and algae to grow. The mold growth can clog the drain. Because the condensation cannot pass through the drain line, the water leaks out of your 
The air filter in your AC traps any contaminants from getting inside your home. This buildup on the air filter only gets denser as time passes. When the air filter is dirty, it blocks the airflow, and the warm air cannot pass through. Without warm air blowing over it, the evaporator coil gets too cold and freezes over. Ice forms in the surface of the coil. When it melts, the water leaks out of the A/C.
The refrigerant is the coolant used in your air conditioner’s refrigeration cycle. There are a few indications you’ll notice on your AC if your refrigerant is low. One of the indicators is that your AC isn’t cooling your house well. Also, there could be a refrigerant leak if you hear a hissing sound from inside your A/C.
It is undeniable that air conditioners play a huge role when it comes to keeping you and your family comfortable. However, when your central air conditioning unit starts to make unusual sounds, or it blows warm air, these are indications that your AC is not working correctly. Fortunately, most A/C issues are easily solved. However, it is vital to know when you can take out your tools and start a DIY repair or when to call a professional HVAC technician instead.
If your air conditioning unit blows out warm air instead of cold, check if the temperature in your thermostat is correctly set. Someone may have accidentally set it to ‘heat.’ Simply place it in the ‘cool’ setting and see if it starts blowing cold air.
Below are a few of the HVAC problems that need to be checked and repaired only by a professional:
Finding ways to lower your household’s monthly utility bills is always an exciting topic for many homeowners. After all, it’s an excellent way to keep your hard-earned money in the bank. Interestingly enough, your home heating and cooling costs account for approximately half of your energy costs. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to pay close attention to the efficiency of your HVAC system.
One of the persisting questions on the topic of saving money is whether closing the HVAC vents in unused rooms can save you money. The answer is no. Truth be told, closing HVAC vents does more damage than good to your air conditioning unit.
Your air conditioner does not work less when you shut even just a few vents. In fact, you are making your HVAC’s blower work harder.
Air conditioners are designed to give maximum comfort and make life easier for every homeowner. With the summer heat looming over us, you expect your AC to keep your home from being hot and uncomfortable. However, AC issues do occur and occasionally an air conditioner can malfunction.
If the AC’s exterior unit is not functioning correctly, this might be an indication of a faulty thermostat. Also, the air conditioner could cycle erratically due to the thermostat sensor getting knocked out of place. Your home will not feel comfortable because the thermostat will not have the ability to signal your air conditioner to turn on or off when necessary.
Particulate, debris, and dust buildup can accumulate in your A/C’s air filter. The unit will strain to work harder so that air can pass through the dense dust buildup.
The refrigerant is a substance or mixture used in the AC’s refrigeration cycle. Several factors can cause refrigerant leaks. It is a common mistake to assume that merely adding more refrigerant is the solution. Contact a professional HVAC technician to fix the leak, repair the cause of the leak, and charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
When your home is in need of an 
Window air conditioners have a few distinct benefits not offered by other systems. They are easy to install and are typically the most cost-effective option (initially). You can mount them in a window opening or on an exterior wall.
Central ACs are a favorite among many American consumers. They perform well and are typically very reliable. Regardless of the temperature outside, you can maintain a consistent temperature within your dwelling. This option allows you to enjoy a comfortable home any time of the year.
Ductless air conditioners — also referred to as mini-split ductless air conditioning systems– are a terrific cooling option. Ducts are not necessary, as the system has an air handler and an evaporator. The technician places the air handler inside the home and places the condenser outside. Electrical cables and refrigerant tubing are used to connect the two components to each other and only require a 3-inch hole.
Ductless air conditioners offer higher energy efficiency than window AC units or central air systems. For example, you can choose which rooms to cool and turn the unit off in rooms/zones that are not in use. Therefore, your energy bills do not increase as they do with central air systems or window units. Also, ductless systems feature sophisticated filtration systems and high SEER ratings. Your home’s air quality will improve over time, and you will enjoy year-round comfort. Nevertheless, it is crucial to hire an experienced HVAC tech to help you choose the most appropriate AC system for your home.
There are many fuel delivery companies for homeowners in Bridgewater and the surrounding areas of New Jersey to choose from. For some, finding the best company can be challenging. Fortunately, it is not as difficult as it seems. Many homeowners will base their decision on the company that offers the best home heating oil prices today. While the quote is part of it, there are other factors involved to make the best decision.
If you heat your home with 
If you have an oil tank that is over two decades old, you should consider having it replaced. New tanks have less of a chance to malfunction. With just a simple phone call to your local heating company, you can start the process of replacing your old tank.
