HVAC Expert

5 Signs Your Heater is Broken

What's that noise? Why is the room so cold? If you're asking these questions, these are signs you may have a broken heater.

You've done everything you could to keep your heater running as it should, including regular maintenance. But there still comes a point when we need to call an HVAC company for heater repair.

If your heater shows any of the below signs, it's time to schedule a repair service.

1. Unusual Noises

You should be used to the sounds your heater makes during normal operation, but weird noises can be a sign you need to call the heater repairman.

Common noises that indicate a broken heater include squealing, loud and disruptive humming, or rattling noises.

Squealing is often caused by loose bearings or problems with the pulley or motor belt. Rattling or banging can indicate loose screws or an unbalanced motor. Loud humming is usually a sign the blower fan motor is starting to fail.

2. More Dust in the Home

Are you or your family members sneezing more often? Do you notice an increased amount of dust in the home? If so, it could indicate poor air quality.

Changing the filter or upgrading to a better filter can sometimes help improve indoor air quality. However, your system may also need a good cleaning. Your system may be packed with debris and dust, which causes your heater to work harder than it needs to.

If left ignored, your overworked heater could break down. That's why it's crucial to call for repair or maintenance as soon as you notice this sign.

Are you looking for more ways to improve your indoor air quality? The EPA has some great suggestions.

3. Cold Spots

No, it's not a ghost—cold spots in the house can indicate an underlying issue with your heater.

If you notice dramatic changes in room temperature in your house, it's usually due to a struggling heater. It may be too small to effectively heat your home, for instance.

You may notice small fluctuations in the temperature, especially in older homes, that come from drafts. But a dramatic temperature difference often means you need HVAC maintenance.

4. You're Constantly Using the Thermostat

Does it seem like you're always adjusting the thermostat to try and make your home comfortable? If some rooms seem too hot or too cold, your heater isn't working efficiently. The system isn't evenly distributing heat.

The issue might be a broken thermostat, but you can usually troubleshoot this on your own. If your thermostat is working properly, it's likely your heater.

5. High Energy Bills

If you notice a dramatic spike in your energy bills that don't seem right, your heater could be to blame. It's likely the case if you notice the system turning on and off again more than it should. This can indicate a system that's struggling to keep your home warm.

Compare your current bill to past bills, and you might see a pattern.

Need Heater Repair?

If you notice any of the above signs, it's time to call for heater repair. The longer you wait, the more likely your system is to break down on you!

You can rely on us at Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling for all your HVAC needs in Lee County, FL. Send us a message or call us today.

by HVAC Expert

5 Common Reasons Your Home Air Conditioner Smells... Off

If it wasn't already obvious, if your air conditioning makes your home smell like you're living in the landfill you may have a problem.

Let's be honest, one of the things you don't want when it comes to your home is any displeasing smells. One of the most concerning things is when that smell comes from your air conditioning. When there's a strange scent coming from your air conditioning there are several things that it might be.

Before you drive yourself crazy wondering why your air conditioner smells, let's take a look at several possibilities. One of these may be the reason for that unpleasant smell wafting around your home. Let's take a look and see if we can solve that air quality issue.

1. Rotten Eggs Stench

If there is the scent of rotten eggs it may be a hint that your air conditioning unit has a dead animal stuck in it. These pests can cause major damage and result in your air conditioning unit breaking completely.

If this occurs the best thing to do would be to call your HVAC company to have them take all of the necessary precautions.

2. The Scent of Gas

When your central ac smells like gas it means that gas may be getting into places your house doesn't need it. This might mean that your ductwork needs to be taken apart and examined.

If your air conditioning smells of gas, a natural gas company may need to be consulted. There could be a bigger problem than you realize at work.

3. Moldy Scent Is A Water Indicator

When an air conditioner smells musty it means that there is excess water where it shouldn't be. Your drain pan may be collecting stilled water. This could mean a number of different things for your air conditioning unit.

Your HVAC company knows how to remove musty smells from the air conditioner. They will be able to get rid of those scents and make your home cool and fresh again.

4. The Smell Of Fire

There are plenty of electrical connections inside of your unit. In some cases, there may be misfires that cause your air conditioning unit to smell as though it is on fire. This may be a cause of significant worry in your home.

In some cases, you may even need to replace your air conditioning unit in order to prevent any damage to your home.

5. A Strong Chemical Scent

If your central air conditioner smells like chemicals a problem is typically in your refrigeration line. This could also be the cause for your home not cooling off as usual.

Any scent of chemicals should be the cause for a light alarm. There are several different areas the scent of chemicals may pertain to.

Take Those Air Conditioner Smells Seriously!

Any of these air conditioner smells can make your surroundings very unpleasant. They may cause you to not feel comfortable in your home. Calling an HVAC company will bring you back a sense of calm within your home.

Have further questions about your HVAC system? With questions like that we'd be happy to help you. Contact us today and get started solving all of your heating and cooling problems.

by HVAC Expert

How to Find the Best HVAC Company In Your Area

Many people fail to appreciate how much value heating and air conditioning contractors provide to society. In fact, the market for HVAC contractors in the United States alone is worth more than $119 billion every year!

Of course, not all HVAC companies are created equal. If you want the best service possible, you might have to look around to make sure that you find the best company.

So how can you make sure that you find the best company for your situation? Read on to learn all about the best ways to find a great HVAC company!

Check Out Ratings and Reviews

The first thing to do is to get as many options as possible. If you can find the best company out of town options, you are likely to get a better company than if you get the best company out of only three options.

Check out the ratings for different HVAC companies on Google and Yelp. The best HVAC company probably has pretty high ratings.

However, you should also check out the reviews to learn more about each HVAC service. If you want HVAC installation, then you might not want to place as much weight on reviews that emphasize HVAC repair.

Ask Around

Finding the best heating and cooling company can also rely on word-of-mouth. Ask your friends and family if there are any companies that they have especially good experiences with. Sometimes, you can find even better companies than you do online this way.

Call Them up First

You can learn a lot about a company based on how they treat people who call them up. A quick call can let you assess the professionalism and friendliness of each company.

While you are talking, you can also ask for some references. Of course, there is a good chance that they will only give you references from customers who like them a lot. Nonetheless, it can still be useful information.

It is also important to distinguish between the best company in general as opposed to the best company for your particular situation. Even if a company has 50 years of experience, if that experience is fully general, then it might not always be the right choice for you.

For example, you might need a very specific job done. If a company has 20 years of experience, but they have spent all of those years and exactly the kind of problem you need help with, and they probably know even more about it than an older company with a board general focus.

Enjoy All of the Benefits of the Best HVAC Company

We hope that you were able to take away something helpful from this brief article on some of the most powerful tools you can use to find the best HVAC company for your situation. Although doing your due diligence can take a little extra time, it is more than worth it to find a great company to work with.

To learn more about how to find the best company for your needs, feel free to reach out and get in touch with us here at any time!

by HVAC Expert

5 HVAC Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Winter

by HVAC Expert

Florida Business: What to Expect From Your HVAC System Design Team

There's nothing worse than walking into a stuffy room during summer in Fort Meyers, FL. Except walking into a cold one in winter.

In extreme weather, your HVAC system design makes all the difference. A good design will heat and cool your home with efficiency. A poor design will leave you at the mercy of the elements and cost more money.

Here are a few things you should expect from your HVAC design team.

System Types

Your designer will first decide what type of HVAC system will work best for you. There are a variety of options, and each has its own benefits.

Split Systems

These units have two systems. One for heating and one for cooling. Typically, this system relies on a gas furnace in the basement and a cooling unit. Since many homes in Florida don't have basements, this won't work for many.

Ductless split systems are a popular option for hotels and apartments. It's commonly used because individual units are placed in the ceiling or walls providing each room with a customizable climate.

Hybrid split systems work by utilizing a heat pump and a furnace. These two units give you more control over how to heat and cool your home.

Other Systems

Packaged systems are a more compact option. Combing the heating and cooling type of units into one makes this system ideal for small spaces. Smaller houses where storage is limited are perfect for this system.

Geothermal systems are leaders in energy efficiency. They can be up to four times as efficient as the other systems. Here's how it works. It utilizes pipes to transfer heat into your house. In the summer, they pull heat out.

HVAC System Design Process

After you've chosen your system type, your design team can start with the installation process. This involves calculating air requirements to guarantee that every room will be a unified temperature.

It's important that the designers give you an idea of the ductwork once installed. This includes the location of vents and any new units.

HVAC Installation

No one wants their home turned into a construction zone. Our team works very hard to ensure there will be minimal disruption to your everyday life.

Once your system is installed, you can't forget about the importance of maintenance.

Commercial or Personnal HVAC

There are different requirements and regulations for each. Your design team should specialize in your unique needs.

At Ellsworth's Heating and Cooling, our licensed professionals are experts in both. We are familiar with zoning and multi-stage systems, designing and implementing air conditioning, and much more.

Design Your New HVAC System Now

For those located in Fort Meyers, FL, you know how important working air conditioning is. Don't waste money with old and inefficient systems. Proper HVAC system design will change your life.

We take pride in our work. Our design team is efficient and knowledgeable. Contact us to turn your home into an oasis from the heat and cold today!

by HVAC Expert

HVAC and AC: What’s the Difference?

In 2018, the world demand for AC was over 111 million units. As our climate changes, we will see the need for heating and cooling services increase. You may hear the terms HVAC and AC used more often than before.

People use the terms HVAC and AC interchangeably when talking about air conditioning within a home or business. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, whereas AC just means air conditioning.

So, even though the terms get shifted about, they have different purposes. It is important to know the difference between HVAC and AC. But how do they actually differ, and what job does each unit do?

Read on to discover how HVAC and AC differ from each other so that you can talk about the topic in the future without as much confusion.

HVAC Units

An HVAC unit is a multi-purpose installation that can often be quite complex and contain several elements. One major difference between an HVAC and AC unit is that HVAC often contains a furnace to provide central heating.

An HVAC furnace is usually in the basement or outside of a home. It burns fuel to create the heat to keep your home warm. The heat travels around the internal piping and gets released via vents into each of the rooms. Furnaces tend to be more common in colder climate areas and are not present in all HVAC systems.

Another key HVAC system is the heat pump. The heat pump will provide both cool and warm air to the property. They come in two forms: packaged or split units.

A split unit heat pump will have the evaporator coil inside the property whilst the rest is outside. However, in a packaged heat pump, everything remains outside.

So one of the key differences is that an HVAC unit will have an air conditioning unit, but not all ACs are part of an HVAC.

AC Units

An air conditioning unit can be installed entirely separately from an HVAC. This is ideal for climates where heating is rarely needed. There is no sense in installing a full HVAC when all you need is AC.

There are two main types of AC: window AC and central AC. Window AC is used in a single room to keep it cool. Central AC runs throughout the house via ventilation ducts and is often part of a centralized HVAC system.

You can also have portable AC units that you can move from room to room as required. They need a ventilation tube which is often stuck through a door or window.

Key HVAC and AC Differences

So, an HVAC unit can contain an HVAC furnace and AC, but an air conditioning unit is just for cooling. It is actually a straightforward difference between HVAC and AC, and one that is often confused and interchanged.

If you are looking for HVAC or AC services and live in the Fort Myers area, we can help you. We provide residential AC and commercial HVAC services in your area, and can help you with everything from design to installation and maintenance.

Please take a look at our services pages to find out more.

by HVAC Expert

4 Tips on Preparing Residential HVAC Systems for the Fall

In Fort Myers, we're blessed with some good weather all year round. The summer can be blistering hot at times, but once fall hits, the temperatures cool down.

However, by some other Americans' standards, it can still be quite hot. After all, the average high is 83.8 degrees and the average low is 72 degrees!

Understandably, you'll want to make sure your air conditioning is working during this season so you can stay cool and comfortable. So here are 4 tips on preparing residential HVAC systems for the fall.

1. Check Your Air Filters

Chances are, you've been running your AC all summer long to keep cool. This means your air conditioning has been working hard, and lots of air has passed through it.

Before fall arrives, take a moment to check your air filters. Hold them up to a light; the light needs to come through for it to work effectively.

If your air filters are clogged up, either clean or replace them. A good schedule to follow is doing so every 60 to 90 days, although depending on your usage and air quality, you might need to adjust that schedule accordingly.

2. Check the Outside Unit

Debris will build up on your outside unit, no matter what time of the year it is. So it's always good to check your outdoor HVAC unit at least once a season.

Take a moment to sweep the area around your outside unit and to get rid of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Then, give the unit a visual inspection to make sure there are no damages. If there are, make sure you call for HVAC repair service right away.

3. Check for Air Leaks

Air leaks will be very costly, so do yourself a favor and check for air leaks. Take a walk around your house to see if you feel any drafts near windows and doors. If you find any, seal them.

If you don't do so, this can cause your AC to work harder than it needs to. This means that you're putting unnecessary wear and tear on it, as well as driving up your utility bills.

4. Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Checkup

It's always a good idea to keep up with regular HVAC maintenance. Having a professional's eye means they'll be able to catch any problems early on, before they turn into nastier (and more costly!) ones.

Getting regular maintenance also means you'll prolong the lifespan of your HVAC unit. This can help you save money in the long run!

Follow These Tips for Residential HVAC Systems in the Fall

By following these tips on prepping residential HVAC systems for the fall, you'll be set up for success. Not only will you have a working unit, but you'll also enjoy it for longer!

Do you need a professional in Fort Myers to come look at your HVAC system this fall? Then get in touch with us now. We at Ellsworth Heating & Cooling will be more than happy to help you out!

by HVAC Expert

How to Tell When It’s Time to Install a New Air Conditioner

The summer will be here officially here on Monday, and you know what that means for Floridians. The summer will be bearing down on many people and home air conditioners.

For the Fort Meyers area, in particular, it was too long ago that the National Oceanic Atmospheric Association (NOAA) said that Fort Myers was ranked 21st in the country where heat is concerned.

In 2019, it recorded more than 90 days with 90 or higher temperatures. With that being said, it may be time for a new air conditioner.

Read on to find how to tell if that's the case for your household.

How to Know When It’s Time for a New Air Conditioner 

Preparing for Florida’s heat can take a toll on you and your air conditioner. You may run into these symptoms if your air conditioner is on the fritz:

• You have a refrigerant leak
• The evaporator coil in that appliance is frozen
• The AC fan stops working
• There is water leaking
• You have dirty AC filters
• The electric controls on your AC unit are not functioning properly
• The AC constantly runs or not at all
• Only hot air blows
• The circuit breaker goes in and out

Another key factor in determining when to replace AC is the age of the unit. Much like a mattress, you can survive on the appliance for about 8-10 years.

Is air conditioner repair the answer? If you have had the unit for a decade or more, and it keeps going out, you’re much better off getting a new one from Ellsworth Heating and Cooling.

How Much Will it Cost?

Estimates could range from $4,000 - $8,000, which is a steep price for many people.

New air conditioner cost has several factors involved:

• The kind of unit you choose
• Installation costs
• Ductwork repair
• Square footage of your home

You must budget for this ahead of time. Consider doing regular AC checks yearly to make sure that the unit is in good shape.

The track record of yearly checks will give you a good indication of when to replace ac system.

The summer heat in Florida is no joke, so your home should be the refuge from it. The dangers of being out in the heat involve headaches and the worst-case scenario of heatstroke.

When the body reaches a dangerous temperature such as 104 degrees Fahrenheit, your brain is affected, and you can potentially lose consciousness or die.

Be Cool and Stay Out of the Heat

Google ac installer near me, and you'll find Ellsworth Heating and Cooling on the search list. Getting a new air conditioner may seem stressful because of the cost, but it can be a smooth and easy process with the right provider.

Contact us to learn more about our air conditioning replacement or repair services, and you can feel confident knowing that your home is in good hands.

by HVAC Expert

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Around 90% of Americans use air conditioning in some shape or form. Many people in Fort Myers have central air to protect their homes from the Florida heat.

Unfortunately, HVAC systems don't last forever, and you may experience issues with your AC at any point after air conditioner installation.

Do you think it might be time to repair or replace your air conditioner? If so, you need to figure out which option is the best for your circumstance.

Keep reading to learn about common issues you may have with your AC unit and how you can tell if air conditioner repair or replacement is more appropriate.

Common Issues You May Experience With Your Air Conditioner

If you're reading this article, likely, you're already having some problem with your air conditioning unit.

Luckily, some issues are much more common than others, and if you're dealing with a popular problem, an HVAC professional will have an easier time diagnosing the concern.

Some of the most typical problems you may come across include:

• The refrigerant is leaking
• The evaporator coil is frozen
• The AC fan isn't running
• There is leaking water
• The filters are dirty
• Electric controls are not functioning
• The AC is always running or won't run at all
• Only hot air is blowing
• The circuit breaker is repeatedly tripping

Repair or Replace: Which Is Best?

The sad truth is that not all AC problems can be repaired. So, if you have an issue that is more severe or serious, it is likely to be necessary for you to replace the entire unit.

There are some things that HVAC pros can fix. Unfortunately, since repairs aren't always possible, you will need to have a professional look at your AC unit before it can be determined if a repair is possible.

This is why it's a good idea to get in touch with an HVAC company, like Ellsworth's Heating and Cooling, as soon as possible after you notice an issue.

Factors to Consider Before Air Conditioner Replacement

If your air conditioner is 10 years old (or more), it likely is time to replace the entire system regardless of what type of issue it's having. This is because air conditioning units wear out over time, especially in hotter regions like Florida.

Another factor to consider is whether your air conditioner not working properly is happening to you all the time. If this is a frequent problem you're having, it likely is easier for you (and less expensive overall) to replace the whole thing.

An older AC unit may use R-22 refrigerant, which has been found to contribute to ozone depletion. If your unit is still using this, it may be worth it to get a replacement just for this reason.

Lastly, if your energy bills are extremely high and you can't figure out why, a more efficient AC unit may be the answer.

Do You Need an HVAC Service Provider?

An HVAC company will help you figure out if your air conditioner needs to be repaired or replaced. They have the skills needed to help you determine what is best for your specific situation.

Do you think you may need to repair or replace your air conditioner? Don't sit in the uncomfortable Fort Myers heat any longer!

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

by HVAC Expert

The Importance of Routine HVAC Maintenance

As summer is approaching, temperatures are heating up. Now is the time to invest in HVAC maintenance. The last thing you want to happen is a system failure when temperatures are approaching 100 degrees.

Preventive maintenance will help prolong the life of your system. In most cases, routine maintenance will catch problems before you have a total system failure.

Is your HVAC system in need of some TLC? Have you gone years with an HVAC check-up? Keep reading to learn the importance of routine HVAC service.

What Does HVAC Maintenance Include?

HVAC maintenance may vary by company. There are several services the best HVAC companies will include in their plans. These items should be every routine maintenance plan.

Here, we'll go over the most crucial preventive care you should look for on the checklist.

Change Filters

Your HVAC system has multiple filters. Homeowners often focus on the filter in the air handler. However, internal filters help keep your unit running.

Routine maintenance will ensure these filters are cleaned to improve airflow.

Flush Drain Lines

Sediment, algae, and mold can accumulate in the lines of your HVAC system. When this happens, condensation builds up in the system and creates a backflow that can cause leaks.

In more severe cases, the water can freeze in the line, leading to severe issues within the system.

Replace Thermostat Batteries

Most homeowners do not know the thermostat operates on batteries. Others forget until the HVAC unit fails to turn on.

Your HVAC service technician will notate when the batteries are installed. During routine maintenance, they can check their records and know when to replace the batteries.

It's a good idea to keep batteries on hand in case they fail between maintenance appointments.

Clean Evaporator and Condenser Coils

The coils in your HVAC unit are located inside the system. It is vital to the longevity of the HVAC system to keep these parts clean and clear of debris.

Your technician will open the unit and clean the coils.

Check Air Ducts for Tears

The air ducts to your unit are located in the attic or crawl space above the ceiling. These ducts get damaged when critters get into the area. A tear in the ducts means a loss of airflow and less cooling in the house.

Clear Area Around Compressor

The compressor for your AC unit is located outside. Some are mounted on the rooftop. Others are at ground level on the side or back of the house. The HVAC tech will check the area around the compressor is clear.

Weeds, tree branches and other debris needs to get cleared. The compressor is easily compromised if foreign objects get inside the unit.

Beat the Heat Call the Pros

Now is the best time to schedule your HVAC maintenance. Summer is the peak of HVAC services. Don't wait until the demand for technicians is high.

Are you ready to give your HVAC system a checkup? Click here to contact Ellsworth Air, the best HVAC service provider in the Fort Myers area.

by HVAC Expert