Humidity Control in Fort Myers, FL Winters: A Guide to Comfort
High humidity is common in Florida, regardless of the time of year. Some data shows that the average humidity level in the state of Florida is a whopping 85.8 percent, which is quite a doozy.
Using the right type of humidity control can make all the difference in your home, even during the winter since it lessens the load on your HVAC system.
Check out this list of ways you can keep the humidity levels in your Fort Myers, FL home under control.
Start with Measurements
Before we discuss ways to practice humidity control in your home, it's a good idea to gauge just how high your home's indoor humidity is. Most modern digital thermostats will indicate this level somewhere on the main panel. An ideal level of humidity in most homes is somewhere between 40 and 50 percent.
If the humidity isn't showing on the thermostat, you might be able to find it within the smart thermostat app. However, if you don't have a fancy modern digital thermostat, there are other ways to measure it, too.
A digital hydrometer can show you the levels inside your home. These devices are affordable and easy to use. You can also get an accurate reading by scheduling an annual HVAC system inspection.
Humidity Control: Use Exhaust Fans
Most kitchens have a hood vent that rests above the oven. If you have one of these, keep it running whenever you cook to practice smart humidity control.
Other rooms in the home that utilize exhaust fans typically include the bathroom, and in some cases, the basement or a utility room. Try to run these fans as often as possible, especially in bathrooms whenever you bathe or shower.
The more you use these fans, the more you'll be able to keep humidity levels in check. When using these fans, make sure that the indoor relative humidity is higher than the outside. Otherwise, using the fans may backfire and make indoor levels higher instead of lower.
Consider a Whole Home Dehumidifier
A whole-home dehumidifier is designed to remove excess humidity from the indoor air of the home. This unit uses a special refrigerant cycle which takes the humidity from the air and drains it to the outside.
These helpful systems can be connected with heating and AC systems, or you can find them as standalone models. You'll want to make sure you have a dedicated 120 or 140-volt circuit, and a drain line will need to be run to your home's exterior.
The cost for these units varies but typically ranges between one and three thousand dollars. Many homeowners find that they can be worth it, especially if indoor humidity levels are becoming unbearable year-round.
Check Your Air Ducts
Clogged or dirty air ducts aren't just the enemy of energy efficiency; they also contribute to high humidity levels. Look at your current AC duct design and make sure it's set up for a good, constant airflow.
An air duct cleaning might be in order if you notice the humidity levels are getting too high. Not only will this help you save energy, but it also helps to remove excess dust and other particles from the air. Clean ducts usually result in fewer allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms, which can be particularly bad during the winter season.
All home heating and AC systems require clean, debris-free air ducts to run smoothly. This will ensure that you save energy in the best possible way while also keeping the indoor air clean and with a lot less humidity overall.
It's also a good idea to make sure that you have a clean air filter. Check the manufacturer's recommendations, and change your HVAC filter every 30, 60, or 90 days to keep the system clean and running smoothly.
Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home
One way to practice good humidity control is to make sure you have no gaps or cracks in windows and doors. These small air leaks can make a huge difference in your home's humidity levels and your system's energy efficiency.
Replace damaged or worn-out door and window seals. Re-caulk around windows to help prevent cold drafts from getting inside.
Proper insulation can also be a smart way to keep your home warm along with lower humidity. Without good insulation, your home will experience significant heat loss that can lead to much higher energy bills.
Check to ensure that your walls, ceilings, floors, and attic all have good insulation and that it's in good condition. You'll notice a much warmer home without drafts and without unbearable humidity.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats give you much more control over the indoor air temperature and humidity in your home. Use this device to set an optimum humidity level, so that it alerts you whenever it gets too high (or too low). Once the levels get above or below your pre-set numbers, you'll get an alert so you can take steps to correct the issue.
You can also use smart thermostats to program your HVAC system and turn it on or off as needed. It's not only a great way to control humidity levels, but it can also keep your system running more optimally. You can even schedule your system to turn on and off when you're at work or on vacation based on your unique preferences and needs.
Most smart thermostats include an app so you can control everything remotely. They're an affordable way to get more control over your home's temperature, humidity, and more at the touch of a button. These devices also offer other perks like sending you an alert when your filter needs to be changed.
Keep Your Home Comfortable this Winter
Remember these tips to help you practice better humidity control in your Fort Myers, FL home. With the right equipment, clean air ducts, and some simple tactics like using exhaust fans, you can keep your home comfortable all winter long.
If you need help with your home's humidity or HVAC system, be sure to contact the pros at Ellsworth Heating and Cooling in Fort Meyers, Florida today!
7 Tips for Hiring Heating Maintenance Services in Cape Coral, FL
A neglected heater could potentially break down in the dead of winter, leaving you shivering in your socks! No one wants to turn their home into an ice palace. So, if you live in Cape Coral, FL, the time to act is now.
Don't wait until you're huddled under every blanket you own, desperately sipping hot chocolate to stave off the chill. Heating maintenance services can keep you toasty when the temperatures plummet.
The cold months are not the time to realize you should have paid more attention to your heating needs. A little bit of preparation goes a long way in ensuring that your winter is a cozy, cocoa-sipping season rather than a teeth-chattering nightmare.
Maybe you're new to Cape Coral and not familiar with local services, or perhaps you've been putting off heater maintenance for years. No matter your situation, worry not! We've got you covered.
Keep reading to find seven handy tips for hiring the best heating maintenance services to ensure a cozy and snug winter for you and your loved ones.
1. Verify Credentials
First things first, check the credentials. When you're searching for an HVAC contractor to service your heating system, make sure they're licensed, bonded, and insured. A certified technician is not just a person with a toolbox; they're someone you can trust with your home's comfort.
Credentials are a bit like a VIP badge at a concert; they give you access to the best show in town. The "show" in this case is reliable and professional HVAC services that you can count on when you need them the most. So, make sure that the HVAC contractor you're considering has the proper certification and experience to handle your heating needs.
2. Ask About Experience
Experience is the teacher of all things, and this couldn't be truer when it comes to heating maintenance and installation. Always ask how long the company has been in business and the types of heaters they have experience with.
A seasoned pro is like a good book: worth more than its cover price! A company with a long history is more likely to have dealt with various issues and conditions.
They can guide you better and may offer tips to prolong your heating system's life, thus giving you more bang for your buck. So, don't shy away from asking how seasoned your HVAC pros are; it can make a big difference in the quality of service you receive.
3. Obtain Multiple Estimates
Getting multiple estimates can be a lifesaver for your wallet. When looking for HVAC services, don't go with the first option you come across. Shop around; get at least three estimates and compare what's included in each. Think of it like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans; you want a good fit, quality, and a reasonable price.
But don't just look at the dollar signs. Check what each estimate actually includes.
Are they offering a comprehensive check-up of your entire system? What about emergency services? Make sure you're comparing apples to apples, so you know you're getting the best deal for your money.
4. Don't Skip References
Checking out online reviews (like on Yelp) or asking for references from friends and family can be invaluable. Personal recommendations are like gold in the world of HVAC services.
Always pay attention to how an HVAC contractor treats their other customers; it says a lot about what you can expect. Think of these reviews and references as your "spoiler alerts." They can give you an idea of the plot twists you might face during your maintenance journey, helping you choose wisely.
5. Inquire About Maintenance Plans
A one-time tune-up for your HVAC system is fine; but what about the long run? Inquire about maintenance plans that cover seasonal tune-ups or other benefits.
It's like a Netflix subscription for your heating system. Instead of one-time bliss, you get ongoing comfort and peace of mind.
Maintenance plans can also include discounts on parts and labor, priority scheduling, and even a few "no-charge" service calls. This is more than just routine care; it's an investment in your home's comfort and safety.
Knowing that regular checks are in the schedule can not only keep those winter worries at bay but also extend the life of your heating system (here are some signs that your heater might be broken).
6. Check Availability
Before you hire, check the contractor's availability. Winter is the peak season for heating system maintenance and repairs. Make sure your chosen service can fit you in before the cold really bites.
Availability is like scoring seats at a hit Broadway show; you don't want to be left out in the cold - literally! Ask about their scheduling flexibility and if they offer emergency services.
Timing is everything, so act sooner rather than later. The best services book up fast; being proactive can save you from a frosty fiasco later on.
7. Go Local: Support Your Community
When in doubt, go local. Local HVAC contractors not only stimulate the Cape Coral economy but also know the unique climate and needs of the community.
Think of hiring locally as doing a favor for both you and your community. They're your neighbors, and they're likely to go that extra mile for a fellow local.
Local companies often have insider knowledge about special requirements or common heating issues in your area, making them more adept at solving your specific problems. So, besides helping the local economy, you're also investing in a service that understands your unique needs better than anyone else.
Heating Maintenance Services: Your Key to a Toasty Winter
Okay, we've covered a lot of ground, but it all boils down to this: hiring reliable heating maintenance services doesn't have to be a daunting task. Following these seven tips will set you on the path to a comfy, warm winter in Cape Coral, FL.
At Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling, we provide heating maintenance services across Fort Myers. Schedule a meeting with us today and our friendly team will get back to you as they can! Once we've checked and serviced your heating system, you can be assured to have a toasty winter ahead of you.
Commercial HVAC Services: 5 Tips for Choosing Your Best Option in Punta Gorda, FL
Commercial HVAC services can be crucial for your HVAC. The right company can help you spot problems before they have the chance to get worse and ultimately increase the lifespan of your HVAC.
The problem becomes choosing the right HVAC service. In the United States, there are over 145,000 companies to choose from.
What should you look for from a commercial HVAC service company? How do you know what the right one for you is?
These are five tips that you should use.
1. Search by Location
One of the first things that you should do is search in your current location. If you use a search engine like Google, you are bound to get local companies as your top search results.
There are ways for you to increase this possibility, too. One of which involves using the right keywords.
If you are reading this, it is safe to assume that you are located in the Punta Gorda, FL area. So, you can type in something like "HVAC services in Punta Gorda" to get the results that you are looking for.
Searching by location does a few things for you as a customer. The first is that it provides you with a natural filter.
It is hard to get companies that are far away from you to come to your house and inspect your HVAC. As a result, searching by location gives you a list of companies that are relatively close to your area.
The second thing this does is it allows you to look further into these companies. You can spend more time focusing on a smaller list of companies and from there, you can determine which one is the best fit for you.
2. Read Online Reviews
The next thing you should do is read online reviews. What this does is it gives you a better idea of what experiences past customers have had with this business.
Has this business been reliable? Were they pleasant to deal with? Were the reasonable with costs and benefits reasonable? Have there been any issues since these services were done on the HVACs?
These are all questions that you can get answered by simply taking the time to read online reviews. To get a more general feel of a company, look for any specific comments that come up consistently. This can be either a positive or a negative trait that the company has.
Then, take a look at their average review rating on a search engine like Google. Normally, people have the option to rate the business anywhere from zero to five stars.
If there are a large number of reviews that average close to five stars, that should be a good indication that you are working with a reliable company. The opposite can be true if you notice a low average rating with a lot of reviews.
Take the time to read these reviews and see if a company is the right fit for you.
3. Ask Your Social Network
If you are still not sure what HVAC service you want to use, you do have the option to ask people in your social circle. You can talk to friends or family members about your issue and see if any of them have experience working with an HVAC service.
Let's say that someone close to you has used an HVAC service before. They may have had a positive experience with this company and may tell you that you will be in good hands if you decide to work with them as well.
That can place a tremendous amount of value on a normal person if they trust the advice of their friend or family member. About 88% of people place the highest level of trust in a brand recommended by a friend or a family member.
The same can be true for a friend or family member who had a negative experience with an HVAC service. In that situation, they will likely tell you to steer clear of that company.
That can have a very negative impact on businesses considering that 26% of people will completely avoid a brand that a friend or family member had a negative experience with.
Whether your friends and family members had a positive or negative experience, they can still provide you with a lot of good information by simply asking them about this. Reach out to people who you trust about this.
4. Ask About the Cost
Like most things in life, HVAC service is not going to be free. That is why you must get a quote from a company as soon as possible.
However, you will also want to make sure that you do your research on this. That is because you may come up with a budget that is simply not realistic for the job that you need to have done with your HVAC. So, make sure that your budget is realistic.
Once you come up with a realistic budget, you should try to get a quote from each company you talk to as soon as possible. From there, you can decide what your best option is.
5. Go For Value
Finally, do not limit your research to the cheapest possible option. Make sure you get good value with whatever HVAC company you are going with.
This can mean going with a company that has someone with a lot more experience. It can mean getting a longer warranty period for any issues that may come up. Or, it can mean spending a little more money to make sure that the job gets done right the first time around.
While your budget is important, you want to get the best bang for your buck.
Use Commercial HVAC Services
These are five tips that you should use when it comes to choosing a company for the commercial HVAC services that you need.
First, you will need to narrow down the search to your local area. Then, read online reviews and ask around to get a better idea of a company's reputation. Finally, find the best value while sticking to a realistic budget.
Do you need HVAC services in Punta Gorda? Message us here at Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling today.
Surviving the Florida Heat: Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool and Comfortable in Cape Coral, FL
Did you know Florida is the hottest state in the U.S.? The aptly nicknamed Sunshine State has an average temperature of a scorching 73.4 °F.
Louisiana, with an average temperature of 68.5 °F, and Texas, with an average temperature of 68 °F, come in at numbers two and three on the list of the hottest states in the US of A.
If you have a home in Cape Coral, FL, you'll want to know how to keep your space cool and comfortable inside even when it's hot outside.
Keep reading for tips to survive the Florida heat to be as cool as a cucumber.
Maintain Your HVAC Unit
One of the best ways to keep your home and its occupants cool in the Florida heat is to ensure your HVAC equipment is functioning correctly. That means scheduling maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape.
A quality HVAC unit appropriately installed and maintained regularly will serve you well for many years. Doing these things will also reduce the need for costly repairs that cost a small fortune.
You don't want to delay or ignore maintenance and then find yourself with a malfunctioning HVAC unit when the mercury in the thermometer is climbing to sweat-inducing heights. Proper HVAC unit care is a must.
Consult your HVAC homeowners guide to determine the recommended service intervals and contact a reputable HVAC technician for professional service.
Know When to Go the Take-Out Route
When the temperature is high, the last thing you should do is turn on your stove or oven for extended periods. Doing so can make the temperature inside your home even hotter than outside your home.
So, you need to know when to patronize one of your neighborhood eateries. Of course, it'll cost you to eat out, but that's better than suffering through extreme heat due to cooking indoors.
If you want to avoid ordering food, you can cook a meal on your BBQ grill. Many families have one on their back deck. A hot day is the perfect day to pull out the burgers, fish, steaks, and veggies to grill up a feast.
Cooking outdoors will ensure your house isn't hotter than it needs to be. It'll also help with cooling your home since the HVAC equipment won't have to work overtime to achieve your desired temperature.
Insulate Your Attic
If you're considering home cooling tips, remember your attic. It's easy to overlook this space since you probably have never looked in the attic, let alone been up in the attic.
You should, however, see if the attic has enough insulation. The right amount of insulation will ensure your home remains cooler during the hot-weather months.
Contact a professional to assess the insulation and add the right insulation material if necessary.
Assess Your Windows
If you want to learn how to survive the heat, one way is to ensure your windows are up to the challenge. How old are your windows? Consider replacing them if they're at or near the end of their lifecycle.
Check out the condition of your windows. Some problems can be repaired, but other problems mean it's time for replacement windows.
You should upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane windows if you have single-pane windows. Single-pain windows won't afford the level of insulation you need, but one or two panes of glass will offer better energy efficiency.
When you get replacement windows, consider getting inert gas placed between the panes of glass. That'll offer even more energy efficiency so your home stays cooler and your HVAC equipment doesn't have to overwork.
Use Portable Fan
Another way to keep your home cool when it's hot outside is to use portable fans. You won't have to rely on your HVAC unit all the time.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, put them to good use. It'll help keep your home cool so the interior is comfortable for you and yours.
Use Window Coverings
Yet another way to keep your residence cooler is to use your drapes, blinds, shutters, or whatever other coverings you have. Something like thick curtains can help keep the sun's rays from overheating your home.
While covering the windows will keep natural light from getting inside, it will also help to keep your rooms cooler. So, use the window coverings you already have, or invest in some if you don't have them on all your windows.
Keep Interior Doors Open
It's also a great idea to keep the doors inside your house open. Doing so will encourage more airflow throughout your residence.
So, if you're seeking Florida HVAC tips to use your equipment more efficiently, get in the habit of leaving the doors in your home wide open. Your home will be cooler, and your electricity bill will be lower since the HVAC won't be on 24/7.
Beat the Florida Heat
If you live in Florida, you need an HVAC unit. You must maintain it so that it doesn't fail you when you can least afford for that to happen.
Whether you need to maintain your current HVAC unit or replace it altogether, we can help you beat the Florida heat at Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling. We're a reputable HVAC technician serving homeowners in and around Cape Coral, FL.
You can count on us for all your residential HVAC needs. That means we can assist you with service, repair, installation, and replacement. Contact us today for the help you need.
A Quick Guide to Summer HVAC Maintenance in Fort Myers, FL
The high temperatures during the Fort Myers summers are 91°F on average. Just imagine if our HVAC fails you during a day that has such a high temperature. You'll get very uncomfortable very fast.
You should want to prevent this from happening. Performing summer HVAC preventative maintenance can help you prevent summer problems. Read on to learn some DIY HVAC maintenance tips.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
Your HVAC outdoor unit is, well, outdoors. That's where a lot of dust and dirt is. This, along with a lot of weather debris like branches, trash, and so on, can wind up on top of your unit.
All this mess can lead to heating and cooling problems. To prevent this, you must clean off your outdoor unit.
It's easy to do this. Just turn off the unit and pull off all the debris sitting on top. You should also get a cloth and wipe any dust and dirt off the consensus coils.
Replace Air Filters
Your HVAC air filters improve your indoor air quality. They catch any air pollutants flying through the air. But if they build up, your HVAC will struggle to blow temperature-controlled air into your home.
You can avoid a lot of HVAC problems if you replace your air filters regularly. Most HVAC services suggest that you replace your air filters at least once every two months.
Doing this yourself may seem daunting at first. But all you need to do is get the right filter, open up your unit, pull out the old filter, and slide in the new filter. It's one of the easiest heating and cooling maintenance tricks ever.
Check/Replace Your Thermometer
Is your HVAC starting and stopping too much? You may end up typing "AC repair near me" or "heating and cooling near me" into a search bar and contacting an HVAC company. Then you could end up spending lots of money on a simple thermometer replacement.
You can avoid contacting AC companies in this case. Keep checking your thermometer. If it stops working, just buy a new thermometer and replace the old one yourself.
Know When to Call Experts
Don't try to perform a full AC and heating tune-up yourself. If you know you need a more complex AC and/or furnace repair, get a technician right away. Small problems like an AC pan leaking can quickly turn into big problems.
Also, consider getting regular HVAC maintenance before the more extreme months start. Technicians will get your units ready for the upcoming low or high temperatures.
We Perform HVAC Preventative Maintenance
Most of the time, typing "cooling and heating near me" is a good idea. However, as you can see, there are some HVAC preventative maintenance steps you can take yourself.
But if you're having trouble with your air conditioner leaking, rumbling, smelling like it's burning, etc. in Fort Myers, call Ellsworth's Heating and Cooling. We can respond to your call 24/7 and send our fully licensed and insured team.
Contact us now to schedule an appointment. You can also ask for an AC repair free estimate or a free furnace estimate.
How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Extreme Weather in Punta Gorda, FL
Is the scorching summer heat in Punta Gorda, Florida, putting your HVAC system to the test? With a relentless combination of high temperatures and suffocating humidity, it’s crucial to ensure your cooling system is ready to operate efficiently under extreme weather.
Neglecting proper preparation can lead to unexpected breakdowns, discomfort, and even costly repairs.
Read on for practical tips to prepare your HVAC system for whatever weather comes its way. If you follow these tips, you’ll enjoy a comfortable home year round.
Clean and Maintain Your HVAC System
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Start by cleaning or replacing the air filters. This helps keep air flowing and prevents dust buildup.
Clear the condensate drain line of any debris or blockages. A clogged AC drain line won’t allow your AC to work efficiently. If you ignore it long enough, the entire system could shut down.
Keep the outside unit clear of dirt and yard debris. This includes trimming the grass and shrubs back to allow for ventilation.
You can DIY the cleaning process, but it’s best to schedule professional AC maintenance from your HVAC company. Maintenance usually includes an inspection and a thorough cleaning.
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
To maximize comfort and energy efficiency, adjust your thermostat settings according to Punta Gorda’s climate. While the area faces extreme weather, it's not that way all year.
Adjust your thermostat when you’re away. Doing so can conserve a surprising amount of energy - turn your thermostat up when no one is home. You could save up to 10% every year on energy bills.
Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat that allows you to schedule temperature adjustments automatically.
Take advantage of the “fan” mode to circulate air and improve indoor air quality without cooling.
Avoid drastic temperature changes as they strain the system and increase energy consumption. Your HVAC specialist can help you determine the optimal thermostat settings. Much of it will depend on your HVAC system and how cool you'd like to keep your home.
Improve Airflow and Insulation
Improving airflow and insulation in your home is an easy way to optimize your HVAC system’s performance. There are several things you can do on your own including:
- Remove obstructions around vents and registers
- Seal any gaps or cracks in windows and doors
- Check ductwork for leaks and gaps in the joints
Consider adding insulation to your attic and walls to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Installing ceiling fans can help circulate cool air and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
For a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s airflow and insulation, reach out to Ellsworth’s Heating and Cooling. Their experienced technicians can recommend effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Schedule HVAC System Maintenance Today
Don’t let the extreme weather in Punta Gorda, FL, catch you off guard. By preparing your HVAC system, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures in your home year-round.
Remember to schedule regular maintenance to keep your system in top shape.
Contact Ellsworth’s Heating and Cooling today. Their team of professionals is ready to provide expert services and address any HVAC concerns you may have.
Importance of Air Duct Cleaning Before Summer in Port Charlotte, FL
Did you know that the average high temperature of Port Charlotte is 92°F? It can also get quite humid because of the extensive rainfall. With summer weather arriving, it's essential to prioritize the cleanliness and maintenance of your home's air ducts. Air duct cleaning will ensure the safety and comfort of your living space in Port Charlotte, FL.
Keep reading to learn about the importance of air duct cleaning before summer.
Why Is Cleaning Air Ducts Vital?
Given enough time, your air ducts accumulate dust, pet dander, pollen, and more. It's all too easy for these particles to get into your living spaces. From there, your indoor air quality can nosedive.
This can be especially dangerous for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other health issues.
As if that wasn't concerning enough, the accumulation of debris in the air ducts can choke the airflow. This will reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. Over time, you'll see a spike in your utility bills due to higher energy usage.
How to Solve the Problem With Port Charlotte Air Duct Cleaning
Fortunately, dedicated cleaning can remove these pollutants from your air ducts and prevent them from spreading throughout your home. By opting for professional air duct cleaning services, you'll guarantee a thorough cleaning process.
These technicians employ specialized equipment and techniques to remove accumulated debris from the ducts. Doing this will boost the quality of the air you and your loved ones breathe.
Port Charlotte Climate
In Port Charlotte, FL, summers can be hot and humid. This is why clean air ducts are especially critical. The increased usage of air conditioning systems during this time puts added strain on your HVAC system.
If the air ducts are clogged, the cooling efficiency will be compromised. Your system may struggle to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
This could result in uneven cooling, hot spots, and other issues. This could even lead to potential system breakdowns.
By investing in air duct cleaning before summer, you can avoid these issues. You'll not only enhance the system's cooling performance but also reduce energy consumption. This investment can even extend the lifespan of your equipment.
Choosing an Air Duct Cleaning Vendor
When considering air duct cleaning services in Port Charlotte, choosing a reputable and professional HVAC company can make all the difference. Look for companies that specialize in air duct cleaning.
These certified professionals have the necessary expertise, tools, and knowledge to thoroughly clean your air ducts. They'll even do it without causing damage to your HVAC system.
Ready to Invest in Air Duct Cleaning?
Now that you've learned why air duct cleaning is so important, you can let the professionals get this chore done for you in no time.
Located in Fort Myers, Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling has the experience and certifications you're looking for. We specialize in air ducting cleaning, as well as other essential AC services. We service Port Charlotte and the greater area.
Contact Ellsworth's for a quote or to schedule your air ducting cleaning as soon as possible.
4 Errors with AC Maintenance to Avoid for Homeowners in Cape Coral, FL
When properly cared for, air conditioners tend to last between 15 and 20 years. When cared for improperly, they might not even make it to 10 years. And even if they do, they could be running inefficiently, costing you hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars in the process.
In short, you have to get AC maintenance right. Unfortunately, many homeowners make errors with their AC maintenance routine. So, the question is: which errors should you look to avoid?
We're going to discuss them below to help you properly maintain your residential AC system. Without further ado, here are 4 errors with AC maintenance to avoid for homeowners in Cape Coral, FL.
1. Not Keeping the Condenser Area Clear
The first error you can make is not keeping the condenser area clear. You need to do what you can to prevent sticks and other objects from falling into your AC condenser.
Leave at least 5 feet of clearance on each side of the condenser. In addition, trim hedges and tree branches so that they can't fall into the condenser. Doing this will protect the condenser's impeller, saving it from hundreds of dollars worth of damage.
2. Not Changing the Air Filter in a Timely Manner
ACs utilize air filters to keep dust and other debris from making their way into them. These filters become inundated with dust quite quickly and so need to be changed every 2 months or so. If you wait longer than this, your AC will begin to intake dust, therefore suffering wear and tear and efficiency issues.
So be sure to change that air filter on time. Never let it go for any longer than 3 months.
3. Failing to Clean the Ducts
Not only do you need to swap out your AC's air filter every 2 months or so, but you also need to clean your air ducts. Dirty air ducts restrict the flow of air, resulting in a lack of energy efficiency, not to mention undue AC deterioration.
For best results, have your ducts cleaned professionally every 3 to 5 years.
4. Not Having Your AC Professionally Inspected
The last error we're going to discuss is not having your AC professionally inspected. Professional inspections are important as they help you ensure that there isn't anything wrong with your AC. They catch small problems before they become big ones and therefore save you money in the long run.
During an inspection, your AC technician will clean your AC condenser, clean the evaporator coils, and visually inspect the internal components of the AC. They'll also make repairs as needed.
Professional AC technicians are well-versed in repairing AC units. They'll ensure that any existing AC system damage is put to rest.
Be Sure to Avoid Errors With AC Maintenance
When you improperly maintain an air conditioner, you lose not only years of its lifespan but money as well. This is why it's imperative to avoid errors with AC maintenance.
Need help with AC maintenance in Cape Coral, FL? If so, we here at Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling are the ones to see.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
5 Common AC Problems in Fort Myers, Florida
The global air conditioning market reached a value of $106.6 billion in 2020.
Air conditioning units can make homes far more comfortable, but at times they might exhibit a range of issues. When this happens, you'll want to get a professional to take a look as soon as you can. Florida can get very hot heading into summer, so if your air conditioner isn't working properly, you're going to have a bad time.
For a rundown of some of the most common AC problems in Fort Myers, Florida, keep reading.
1. AC Not Working
If your AC is not turning on, this is definitely a bad sign. Sometimes it may seem to turn on, but there will be no air blowing or the motor won't be running, so it won't cool your home at all.
First, check the batteries in the thermostat to make sure they're not dead. If the thermostat is fine, ensure it's set to "cooling" at the desired temperature. If it's still not working, you'll need to contact a professional AC repair service.
2. Blowing Out Hot Air
If your AC is blowing hot air it will have the opposite effect of what you want. The first thing to do is make sure the settings on the thermostat are correct.
This could be because the air filter is clogged, so changing it may help. It might also happen if your refrigerant is too low. You can deal with both of these yourself, but if it turns out to be something else you'll need to get it looked at by a professional.
3. Leaking Unit
If your AC is leaking, there can be several causes. The condensate line might be clogged by things like mold or debris.
The manufacturer's instructions should provide a guide on how to unclog it, so you might be able to deal with this yourself. If you don't have the manual, or you find that any parts are broken, you should call an HVAC services company.
4. Uneven Temperature Distribution
Ideally, your entire home will be at a comfortable temperature. When something goes wrong with your AC, you might notice some areas are completely different temperatures from others. This likely means your system is unbalanced.
Things like windows, vent placements, room sizes, and external temperatures can have an impact on the temperature of your rooms. Make sure your entire home is properly insulated, and add things like sun-blocking curtains or blinds. This will help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your whole house.
5. AC Is Too Loud
You want to be able to feel your AC, but you don't want to hear it. Modern units are designed to be as quiet as possible, but if yours is struggling to work properly it might start making more noise than usual.
It could make a range of noises such as screeching or rattling, and there could be various causes. You can try cleaning any debris that's around your outdoor unit, but it's best to call in a professional. They'll be able to determine the cause of the noise and then repair it.
Dealing With Common AC Problems
You may be able to deal with some of these common AC problems yourself, but in most cases, you'll need a professional. Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling offers various services such as AC maintenance, repair, and installation throughout Southwest Florida. If you're having issues with your AC system, click here to contact us today.
The Complete Guide to Hiring an AC Repair Service in Fort Myers, FL
In 1906, Stuart Cramer was the first person to use the term “air conditioning.” These days AC units are expected in most commercial and residential properties.
While AC units are a household staple, it's important to understand how to maintain your unit. When issues occur it's important to consider hiring an AC repair service to come and take a look at your unit. A small issue can lead to big problems later on, so it is better to act quickly.
Keep reading to find out what you need to know to ensure you're getting the best deal when hiring an AC repair service.
Read the Reviews
When it comes to hiring services from a company you've never interacted with, it's important to look at their reviews. Online reviews are just as trustworthy as personal recommendations.
While you're reading online reviews, it's important to make sure you're looking at the most recent reviews. When it comes to hiring a service, 5-year-old reviews aren't the best source.
While researching potential service providers, you should also talk to previous clients. You can ask them about their experience and find out what they would have done differently. You'll be able to get a full view of the repair service this way.
Compare Costs
While you want to find the best repair service in your area, you also need to consider your budget. Comparing AC repair costs will give you an insight into the average cost. If a company is charging much more or less than the average, you need to ask yourself why.
This way you'll be able to ensure you don't get overcharged while also keeping your budget in mind.
Are They Available?
Depending on how soon you need a repair service to come out, you might find some options aren't available. Before digging too deep into a company, consider asking them if they're available to work in your area when you need them. If they aren't available on short notice, you don't want to waste any more time doing research.
If your AC unit is experiencing serious issues and can't wait to be repaired, you might need to find a 24-hour service. If you're unsure about the service, you can always get them to temporarily fix the issue and then hire a repair service to inspect the work later on.
Hiring an AC Repair Service Made Easy
If you live in Florida, you know how important it is to have a working AC unit. Hiring an AC repair service means comparing AC repair costs and doing your research. You want the best bang for your buck, so it's important to consider all your options.
If you're having problems with your AC unit, or simply want to schedule routine maintenance, contact us. Ellsworth’s Heating & Cooling services the Fort Myers, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, or Cape Coral, FL area.