AC Not Working? 6 Signs Your HVAC is About to Call It Quits
AC is a staple for American homes, with installations in around 90% of households.
Since we're so used to living with this luxury, things can get really uncomfortable when it breaks down.
If your AC's not working, you need to act fast. In this post, we'll tell you which problems to look out for.
Read on to find out how to keep your AC unit in shape.
How to Know When Your AC is Not Working
If you spot these tell-tale signs, it's time to call the experts.
1. It's Making Noises
Are you hearing squeaking, clunking or whirring sounds every time your AC is on?
Abnormal sounds like these are signs that something's not quite right. Perhaps a part has become loose or the unit is blocked by some kind of debris. In order to find out, you'll have to open it up and take a look.
2. The Thermostat Isn't Working
This is one of the most common problems with AC units.
If you find that the temperature of the air coming out of the system is wildly different to the temperature you set, the thermostat could be the root of the problem.
It could be completely broken, in which case you'll have to replace it. However, it could simply be poorly calibrated. The latter is an easy fix that you may be able to do by yourself.
3. Water is Leaking Out
It's always unpleasant when water is leaking out of your air conditioner, dripping onto your floors and furniture.
If you leave it this way for too long, the unit might fail altogether. On top of that, it can also cause damage to other parts of your home, costing you even more money over time.
4. It's Not Blowing Cool Air
Has your unit suddenly stopped producing cool air? Do you find that it doesn't cool down your home, no matter how low you set the temperature or how high you set the fan?
This could mean that your air conditioning unit is on its last legs.
It's often a sign that the compressor has failed, but if replacing that doesn't work for you, you'll have to get a new unit altogether.
5. Your Bills are Sky High
If your utility bills are skyrocketing, an inefficient AC system could be the culprit.
Ditch the dud and get a new one, and you'll reduce your costs as well as your carbon footprint.
6. It's Constantly Breaking Down
If you find that every time you fix one part of your AC, another part fails, it's best to cut your losses and replace the unit.
The amount you spend on repairs will be far higher than the cost of a new unit, so you'll save money in the long run.
Take Care of All Your AC Needs
If your AC's not working, we can help you.
At Ellsworth's Heating and Cooling, we specialize in HVAC services.
Whether you need a quick fix or an entirely new system, we can handle it for you. We'll take care of your unit's installation, plus any repairs and maintenance you need.
Learn more about our air conditioning services to see what we can do for you.
How to Find the Best Air Conditioning Contractor in Fort Myers
In 2018, the hottest day in Florida was recorded as 96 degrees Fahrenheit. As a resident of South West Florida, you never want to be stuck without a running air conditioner. For that reason, having a reputable HVAC contractor on hand is a must.
Here's how to find the best air conditioning contractor Fort Myers has to offer.
1. Ask Friends for Recommendations
Since you live in a region where the climate is consistently hot, you have the fortune of being surrounded by neighbors with HVAC systems. Most homes in Florida are equipped with central air, and each of those units needs HVAC servicing every now and then.
Trust your friends and neighbors. Word of mouth is the strongest promoter and also the strongest deterrent for new customers when it comes to any business.
Simply ask a few questions:
- Who do you use as your HVAC contractor?
- Can you recommend an AC contractor nearby?
- Is there any business you wouldn't recommend? If so, why?
If more than one neighbor gives you a strong recommendation for a particular business, that's a sure sign this is the right contractor for you.
2. Look up Air Conditioning Contractors in Fort Myers Online
Another reliable source for recommendations and reviews of any business is the internet. Whether you do a simple Google search or you inquire about businesses on your local Facebook group, a little bit of online research can go a long way.
After you do a basic Google search for Fort Myers HVAC contractors, look up the websites of the companies that catch your eye. The businesses that appear most intuitive and approachable online are likely to be reputable, honest, and well-organized.
As you browse each company's site, ask yourself the following questions:
- Does this contractor seem to be an expert in the HVAC business?
- Is this company friendly?
- Is there a lot of helpful and useful content on their website?
If a company or contractor wants to position themselves as an expert in the field, their site will likely have a helpful blog. That's where you can learn what to expect from your average maintenance visit, for instance. Keep in mind that expertise is a strong indicator of professionalism.
3. Look for a Better Business Bureau Rating
The Better Business Bureau is a neutral organization that keeps track of businesses in terms of reputation. Most legitimate businesses have a BBB rating.
If you've narrowed down your choices to two or three HVAC contractors in Fort Myers, search for each one on the BBB website. If each business is registered with the bureau, you'll find ratings and reviews for it.
Also, you will have a chance to see if there are any complaints filed against the business, as well as whether the complaints were resolved.
Are You Ready to Hire an HVAC Contractor?
Now that you are armed with these tips, you're all set to find the best air conditioning contractor Fort Myers has to offer.
Reputation, expertise, and a friendly disposition are all characteristics that make a company great to work with on a regular basis.
If you have any more questions about HVAC maintenance, visit our blog for more information straight from the experts. Contact us today to scheduled a maintenance call or to draft a regular maintenance plan.
Discover The 7 Most Common Air Conditioner Problems
In the US, almost 100 million homes have air conditioning; it's pretty much standard to have one now, especially if you live in hot states like Florida.
While it can be amazing to have in the summer, AC isn't without its problems. Whether it's wear and tear, or a faulty part, your unit can be prone to issues at times. Here are the 7 most common air conditioner problems in Fort Myers.
1. Frozen Evaporator Coils
These coils are responsible for taking the heat out of the air so the temperature in your home lowers; they do this through the refrigerant that's in them.
Sometimes, things go wrong and the evaporator coils don't stay warm. Instead, they freeze over. If this happens, then your air conditioning can't absorb the hot air and your home remains hot.
2. Not Enough Refrigerant
To properly cool the air, your AC unit needs refrigerant. If it's low, then it's time for a top-up.
However, your refrigerant might be low because of a leak, or even multiple ones. An HVAC expert can find and repair them so your home feels cool again.
3. Broken Thermostat
Older thermostats will be prone to breaking or becoming improperly calibrated. No matter what the issue is, it can cause your AC to not work correctly.
Newer thermostats are more accurately calibrated, but can still break. However, before you call a specialist, check to see if you've actually programmed it right.
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are located on the outside of the AC unit, which means it can easily get a buildup of dust and dirt. These coils dump the hot air from inside, so if they're dirty, they can't do their job effectively.
You can prevent this from happening by washing them down once a year.
5. Worn-Down Connectors
Connectors are responsible for making electrical connections between various parts of your air conditioning, so if any are worn down, it can cause the whole unit to not function.
6. Clogged Filter
If your AC is blowing out hot air, a possible cause is a clogged filter. Manufacturers' instructions will advise you on how often to change them, but if you've had particularly bad weather (such as smoke or smog), you may have to change them sooner. You should swap out the filter if no light shines through it.
7. Problematic Fans
A number of things can go wrong with your AC's fans, so you should try troubleshooting it yourself first. But if you can't fix it, call a professional. Without repair from an expert, the compressor can break, which can warrant a new and expensive AC installation.
Get Your Air Conditioner Problems Fixed Pronto
If you have any of the above air conditioner problems, you need to get them fixed right away. The longer you wait, the more likely a small problem will develop into a bigger and more costly one. So get a professional to look at your AC problems as soon as you notice them.
If you need air conditioner problems fixed in Fort Myers, then get in touch with us now.
Special Central Air Conditioner Financing for Fort Myers Homeowners
Did you know that on average, 12% of household energy consumption in the U.S. is for air conditioning use alone?
That's right. And if you live in the constantly warm Fort Myers, Florida, you could be using more! After all, you'd need to keep your air conditioner running to stay cool and comfortable.
The thing is, Florida has one of the highest monthly energy use in the country, at 1,123 kWh per customer. That's why residential electricity bills average $123 a month in the state.
But if you ignore the signs indicating the need for air conditioning repair, you'll pay even more.
As such, be sure to call an HVAC professional as soon as you notice these symptoms of a faulty air conditioner.
Rattling Sounds
If your AC rattles whenever you turn it on or while it’s running, a faulty fan motor may be the culprit. It's possible that the fan blades themselves are acting up because of debris build-up. It may also be an issue with the capacitor, which supplies torque that powers up the fan motor.
Either way, odd sounds or even loud noises from your AC are signs you need air conditioner repair in Fort Myers. Even if the unit still works, leaving it unchecked can lead to fan and even motor damage. If the motor breaks, those sounds will go away but only because your AC will stop working completely.
Warm Air Out of the Vents
Another sign you should call an AC repair Fort Myers specialist is when the unit blows warm air. This can be a sign of a faulty compressor. A compressor's job is to circulate the refrigerant in the air conditioning system.
If the compressor fails to do its job, the refrigerant can't absorb heat and cool the air down. As a result, the AC blows out warm air instead of refreshing air.
A refrigerant leak can also be the cause behind that warm air. This is more dangerous, as ACs made up to 2015 use Freon, a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). CFCs have contributed to ozone layer depletion, which is why the U.S. is phasing out Freon by January 01, 2020.
If your broken air conditioner in Fort Myers is due to a Freon leak, it may best to get a new AC installed instead. This way, you don't have to worry about dangerous chemicals contaminating indoor air.
Besides, the latest HVAC systems are more energy-efficient. In fact, their programmable thermostat alone can already save you up to $180 a year.
Weak Flow of Air or Air Isn’t “Cool” Enough
If your air conditioner won't work right in the sense that it has weak air flow, check the AC filter first. It's possible that the filter has become too filthy that it hinders the unit's ability to blow out cool air. The rule of thumb is to clean or replace filters at least once every three months.
If you've only changed the filter say, two weeks ago, damaged fan blades may be the culprit. A compressor nearing its end may also be ineffective in circulating the refrigerant.
Consider Air Conditioning Financing to Get Your AC Headaches Fixed ASAP
Aside from the above-mentioned signs, be on the lookout for stinky smells coming from the AC too. These foul odors can be due to a clogged or overflowing condenser pan. That water not only gives rise to mold development but also possible water damage.
The important thing is to contact a Fort Myers HVAC specialist as soon as you notice these symptoms. If you're worried about the cost of an AC replacement, consider a special financing plan. The most reputable HVAC companies in Fort Myers offer air conditioning financing services.
Schedule Your Air Conditioning Repair Service Now
Keep in mind that it’s not rare for temperatures to reach as high as 92 °F in Fort Myers. In fact, 109.9 °F was the highest ever recorded temperature in the city. That can put anyone at risk of heat-related health conditions!
That said, don’t ignore the signs of a malfunctioning air conditioner! Give us a call now so we can provide you with timely air conditioning repair services.
AC Maintenance Tips: How To Troubleshoot an AC Fan Motor
What's that sound?
Your AC unit is rattling when the fan is on? You still hear the fan after the AC unit has been turned off? Or maybe there's no sound at all because the fan isn't coming on.
Whatever the case, it sounds like it is time for some AC maintenance. With summer right around the corner, you don't want to be left without a working AC unit.
Read on to learn how to troubleshoot a faulty AC fan motor.
Thermostat, Breakers, and Power
Check to ensure that the thermostat is on and set to the correct temperature. Someone may have bumped the thermostat and knocked it out of whack. It sounds silly, but it's often the culprit.
Also, check the breaker. An AC unit will normally be on its own circuit, so if the breaker is tripped the unit will be the only thing not working.
You can also do a resistance check on the windings of the fan motor. There may be a short or an open that is preventing power from getting to the motor.
Measure the ohms between the white wire and each of the colored wires. Zero indicates a short and an infinite reading indicates an open. In either case, you'll need a new fan motor.
Clean Filters?
You should change your AC air filters regularly. After a winter of disuse, you may have forgotten that the filter is dirty. This can inhibit the performance of the AC unit.
If you find that the filters are clogged, the fan may not even be the problem.
Check the Fan Blades
If the unit is still having troubles, it's time to physically check the fan. Debris may be in the way, inhibiting the fan's ability to operate.
With the AC unit off, use a screwdriver to push the blades and see if they can rotate freely. Once they are moving freely, try turning the unit back on and go back and see if the fan has started up again.
If you give the blades a push with your screwdriver and it starts working, then there is something wrong with the capacitor — not the fan motor.
Inspect the Capacitor
If you've checked all of the above and it seems to be in good shape, the problem may lie with the capacitor. This is the component that delivers the necessary torque to the fan motor.
The fan motor may be completely fine but won't work if the capacitor is bad.
Discharge the capacitor before taking a microfarad reading with a capacitor tester. On the capacitor you'll find the rated capacitance it should have. If the reading is more than 10% off, you're going to need a new capacitor.
AC Maintenance From the Pros
The first couple of steps in this troubleshooting guide shouldn't be too difficult for the average homeowner. But if you find a problem with the fan motor, or suspect an issue with the capacitor it's time to call in the professionals.
Here at Ellsworth Air, we have expert technicians who will figure out what's wrong with your AC unit in no time. AC maintenance has never been so easy or convenient!
Contact us today to get started!
How to Budget for Air Conditioning Installation?
With the temperatures rising in Florida, it might be time to install that air conditioning system you’ve been putting on hold. Installing a new AC unit isn’t as quick or cheap as you think it is. There are hidden costs or costs you might not have fully thought about when it comes to getting a Cape Coral air conditioning installation.
This quick guide was written purely to help you budget for your central a/c unit correctly, what you need to know, and how we’re the ones to hire.
Think About Pre-Installation
You can not just purchase an AC unit and have your contractor buddy come and install it. You need to find a contractor who will come out and do an inspection of the home. If you’re looking to install your first air conditioning unit, you need to know the correct type of unit you need and where to install it.
A Manual J load calculation should be on your list of things you need to be done. This calculation determines your home’s energy efficiency by measuring how hot your home gets throughout the day, which then determines the correct AC unit size.
If your home has an attic, that might be the perfect place to install the unit but it depends on your home. You should also get an understanding of your home’s ductwork. There’s a chance you might need new ductwork if your home never had an a/c unit installed or if your current unit is an older model.
Pre-installation may cost you a couple hundred dollars.
Cost Of The A/C Unit
According to Home Advisor, the spread of prices for low-end a/c units to high-end one run from about $1700 to well over $10,000. Once you get an evaluation of your home completed, you want to pick the unit that works best for your home. Which unit can cool your entire home easily while also being energy efficient and inexpensive?
Take some time and do research on which brand you find the most reliable. Remember, an air conditioning unit is a major purchase and a long-term investment, so you want to choose something that will last.
Don’t Cheap Out
Never ever cheap out on the unit or the labor. We get it, you’re on a budget but you should never choose a contractor solely based on how cheap their services are. A cheap hire can ruin the installation and end up costing you more in the long-run. We offer special financing to make getting the very best service easy and affordable.
Can’t Forget About Warranty
You don’t want you’re a/c unit to bite the dust and not have the warranty to cover such a disaster. Another factor in finding an a/c unit is the factory warranty. The length of the warranty varies depending on the brand, which ranges from five to fifteen years.
The manufacturer’s warranty only covers equipment and parts meaning you may need to shell out a little more for a contractor’s warranty to cover labor for any repairs.
Cape Coral Air Conditioning Installation Made Easy
Whole home a/c installation is very costly, factoring in labor, warranties, pre-installation, and cost of the unit itself. It can cost some owners well into the thousands but going cheap can cost you later on down the line.
If you’re thinking of getting your Cape Coral air conditioning installation done today, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Can Salt Water Damage My Heating System?
Many people living around Fort Myers are unaware of how salt water impacts their heating and cooling equipment. Yes, salt water can cause damage to your HVAC system. Your system can shut down entirely if the damage goes unchecked. Let me start by explaining how salt water affects your A/C.
How salt damages your equipment
Salty water from the ocean contains large amounts of sodium chloride (salt) particles. Moist air from the sea carries salt particles which creates a dust-like film on the surface of your equipment. This film of salt attracts moisture. The combination of salt and water easily corrode and deteriorate the metal parts of the cooling system. Salt affect metals such as aluminum, copper, and steel. Many components of your A/C system are made of these materials which mean your A/C will experience such damages.
The air condenser of your A/C is the most susceptible to the problem of saltwater damage. The condenser is composed of copper tubes to which aluminum fins attach and spins to dissipate heat rapidly. Upon exposure to salt and moister, the contact between the copper and aluminum start to erode, and the damage may end up leaking Freon.
The damage has a ripple effect. Corroded coils hamper, the efficient flow of air and consequently reduce heat transfer. This can lead to additional damage to other parts of the A/C. The damages culminate in reduced efficiency of the system and complete failure in a worse scenario.
Signs of A/C damage
- Poor circulation
- Poor performance or poor cooling effects
- AC parts start to fail
- The AC freezes or parts begin to ice up
- Pockmarks begin to emerge on the equipment
If you reside near the sea, the above signs could indicate saltwater damage. Living near the ocean can damage and shorten the lifespan of your Cooling equipment. The conditions can shorten the lifespan of units that last for more than ten years to deteriorate within five years.
Ways to Protect Your A/C from Saltwater Damage
The A/C is a significant investment, and you do not want the unit to fail prematurely. You want it to last long. Here are ways you can protect your unit from saltwater damage.
1. Schedule Regular HVAC maintenance
I would recommend regular maintenance as this is the best way to protect your A/C against saltwater damage. You should consider air conditioning and heating maintenance agreement Fort Myers for scheduled service by experts. During maintenance, the technician will examine your A/C and detect any potential problem. Regular inspections help prevent damages before they occur. During maintenance, the technician will rinse the system and clean it in a way that protects your A/C from saltwater.
2. Clean and wipe the coils
I like to see this as the easiest cheapest method of maintaining your A/C. The loops are the most susceptible part of your A/C. The salt film is easy to wash and wipe off your equipment. You can hose your system down with fresh water on a regular basis. Hosing the system quarterly or monthly will prolong the life of your A/C’s coil.
3. Purchase the right A/C
If you live around the beach, then you need to do some research before purchasing a unit. Investing in an air conditioner that suits the environment is your best option. Some manufacturers build air conditioners that can withstand natural elements. If you reside along the coastal area, I will recommend that you buy one that can resist saltwater damage. When shopping for an A/C, confirm that the product is saltwater-friendly.
4. Install in the right location
The location of an outdoor unit has a significant impact in preventing saltwater damage. Proper installation is vital, and this is why I suggest you hire professionals only. Experts understand the best installation location for outdoor units in homes near the ocean. For example, they can install the A/C such that your home serves as a barrier to the ocean winds. This installation prevents corrosion and buildup of salt. The technicians will have the unit exposed to rainwater. When rainwater accesses the A/C, it naturally rinses the accumulated salts.
5. Apply anti-corrosion coat
You can also have a technician apply a protective coating to specific parts to prevent them from corrosion — for example, aluminum oxide coating for aluminum parts and iron oxide coating for iron parts. The coat protects the system from damage and improves its efficiency.
6. Clear obstructions
The things you store outside your house can increase damage to your cooling system. The objects can accumulate saltwater particles. These particles will damage your A/C if they find their way to your equipment.
Despite the various ways of protecting your HVAC system, the best way to protect your investment is to have an expert carry out regular maintenance of your equipment. Experts can detect issues early and prevent damages before they occur. For routine HVAC maintenance contact us on (866) 281-5199 and let our experienced experts service the A/C.
What is the Air Conditioning Installation Cost in Fort Myers?
Here in Flordia, the humidity can reach up to ninety percent in the mornings. Without air conditioning, living in an area with such high humidity can be extremely uncomfortable, and almost unbearable.
You need to get an air conditioning unit that makes your life more comfortable. But perhaps you've been stalling because you don't know the air conditioning installation cost in Fort Meyers. Get the low-down so you can start to make your temperatures drop.
The Air Conditioning Installation Cost in Fort Meyers
The cost of your air conditioning installation, obviously, is going to depend on a few circumstances.
You'll need to know the size of your home. For air conditioners, this is measured in BTUs or British Thermal Units. BTUs measure how much heat can be removed from your home in one hour. Not surprisingly, the larger your house is, the more BTUs you'll need.
The installation cost of an air conditioner can cost anywhere from 500 dollars to five thousand dollars. The end cost is all contingent on installation rates and the ductwork already existing in your home.
Most people report spending on average about 120 dollars per month on their air conditioning. This is a factor to keep in mind when installing the actual unit because it will tie into your budget.
You can also consider getting a window ac unit, which is much less expensive than a traditional air conditioning unit. As you may have guessed, however, a window unit is less powerful than a central cooling unit.
If you need to only keep one room cool for the most part, a window or portable unit could be a cost-effective choice for you. Otherwise, the improvement in your day to day life is worth the investment in a larger air conditioning unit.
Get an Estimate
The best way to know exactly what an air conditioning unit is going to cost you is to consult with local companies.
Many air conditioning companies offer free estimates. You can get a better idea of how much the air conditioning installation cost in Fort Meyers is by simply asking companies about their services. They'll be able to measure your home and let you know what type of air conditioning service will work best for your living situation.
Start to Cool Down
Now that you know all the details about air conditioning installation cost in Fort Meyers, you can start to think about how to fund your new investment.
Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling allows you to tailor a budget to fit your needs. You can take advantage of promotional offers and monthly payments.
You don't need to look at the cost of a new ac unit and feel discouraged. You can buy your air conditioning unit and pay over time.
This way, you can stay cool even on a budget. Don't spend another month toughing it out and soaking in your own sweat. Get a new air conditioner and increase your quality of life today. Call us today at (866) 281-5199!
How to Tell if You Need Air Conditioning Repairs in Fort Myers
Living in Florida is a dream until your air conditioning stops working. Ask any Floridian and they’ll confirm it – one of the worst things that can happen to a Florida homeowner is to go without air.
This is why it’s crucial to understand when an AC unit needs maintenance before it completely gives out on you. Whether you recently moved to Florida or you’re still getting used to the whole home-owning thing, you need to read this article.
Here are three tell-tale signs you need air conditioning repairs in Fort Meyers right now.
1. An Unexpected Rise in Your Energy Bill
It’s normal for your energy bill to fluctuate a bit as the seasons change. The AC unit is not going to be working as hard in the winter as it did in the summer, and it makes sense for the bill to go up from spring to summer.
But, what if your energy bill spikes from June to July or July to August? If that’s the case, something is up. There shouldn’t be a drastic change in your energy bill like that.
Call your energy company if you recently experienced something like that. They can help break down your energy consumption for the previous month and point out any patterns in your overall energy use. If the main reason for a change is the AC use, though, you need professional air conditioning repairs.
2. Low Air Flow
It’s one thing for the bill to go up and another for air flow to go down. If you’re not feeling the air in your home as much as you used to, it needs maintenance.
Low air flow is better to fix sooner rather than later. It’s one of the first signs that you need repairs, the calm before the storm so to speak. The more you put this off, the worse the repairs (and maintenance bill) will be.
3. Random Stops and Starts
Speaking of bigger air conditioning problems to deal with, notice if your AC is randomly stopping and starting again. This could be a problem, too.
It’s usually a filter issue but it could also be something more, and the only way to know for sure is to call a professional. The good news is that dirty or compromised filters are an easy problem to fix. If there’s a more serious issue affecting your AC, though, you need to act on it right away.
Professional Air Conditioning Repairs in Fort Myers
Now that you know the AC repair signs to look for, you can focus on how to fix them. This isn’t something you have to take on alone or make a big fuss about.
All you have to do is find someone who can fulfill your needs for air conditioning repairs in Fort Myers, and luckily, you’ve come to the right place! Click here to discover everything we can do for you and your home.