As the summer heat continues in Denver, you may be wondering how you can save money on your home’s cooling costs. Just a few adjustments and maintenance tips can reduce your energy bills and keep your home comfortable for the remainder of the summer. Here are a few tips to help you save on cooling costs:
1. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat can reduce your cooling costs by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re away from the house. Program it to raise the temperature a few degrees to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
2. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Air leaks and poor insulation can cause your AC to work harder. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and ductwork, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Adding insulation to your attic and walls can also help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for constant cooling.
3. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans circulate the air so that you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. In the summer, set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down.
4. Close Blinds and Curtains
Direct sunlight inside the home essentially heats your home, causing your AC to work harder. Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s rays. You can also use reflective or blackout curtains for even greater cooling efficiency.
5. Call Fix-It Now for a Tune-Up
Regular maintenance and care of your home’s cooling system can ensure it is running efficiently. We can inspect and clean both the inside and outside units, check refrigeration levels, and look for any loose connections among the electrical components. Contact us today!
Remember, small changes can lead to big savings! For expert advice and professional maintenance services, Fix-It Now is here to help you maximize your energy efficiency, stay cool and comfortable in your home, and ultimately save money!
Summer officially starts on June 20th, but the temperatures sure feel like it’s already here! In Denver, we know the importance of having a reliable air conditioning system to keep our homes cool and comfortable. And as your local HVAC experts, we understand that choosing the right AC system can be a daunting task. There are many options available, so it’s essential to make an informed decision that suits your specific needs and budget. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect air conditioning system for your home. Of course, we are always available to come to your home for a personalized, free consultation.
Understanding Your Cooling Needs
Before you start looking at a new AC system, it’s important to assess your cooling needs. Here are some questions to consider:
- How large is your home? The size of your home will determine the capacity of the AC unit you need. An undersized unit won’t cool your home effectively, while an oversized unit can lead to energy waste and inconsistent temperatures.
- How well is your home insulated? Do you have energy-efficient windows? Good insulation and windows can reduce the cooling load on your AC system.
- How many people live in your home? More occupants can increase the internal heat load, requiring a more powerful system.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing a new air conditioning system, there are a few technical factors to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
• The cooling capacity of an AC unit is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). It’s crucial to choose a unit with the right BTU rating for your home’s size. Our technicians can help you calculate the appropriate BTU rating to ensure optimal performance.
• A professional load calculation takes into account various factors such as home size, insulation, and the number of occupants to determine the right capacity for your AC system.
Energy Efficiency
• The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the efficiency of an air conditioning system. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower energy bills. Look for units with a SEER rating of 15 or higher for the best efficiency.
• Energy Star-certified systems meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These units typically use 8-10% less energy than standard models.
Types of AC Systems
• Central Air Conditioning: Ideal for cooling entire homes, central AC systems use a network of ducts to distribute cool air. They are highly effective but require ductwork installation.
• Ductless Mini-Split Systems: Perfect for homes without ductwork, ductless mini-splits offer flexibility by allowing you to cool specific zones or rooms. They are efficient and easy to install.
Advanced Features
• Variable Speed Compressors: These compressors adjust their speed to match the cooling demand, providing better energy efficiency and consistent temperatures.
• Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats allow you to control your AC system remotely and program cooling schedules, optimizing energy use and enhancing comfort.
• Air Quality Enhancements: Some AC units come with advanced air filtration systems that improve indoor air quality by removing allergens, dust, and pollutants.
Why Choose Fix It Now Heating & Cooling
We are a locally owned company, and we are committed to helping residents in the Denver metro area find the perfect air conditioning system for their homes. When we provide a consultation and estimate, our experienced technicians will guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose a system that meets your cooling needs, budget, and energy efficiency goals. Here’s why you should trust Fix It Now with your AC installation:
- Expert Advice: Our knowledgeable team will perform a thorough assessment of your home to recommend the best AC options.
- Professional Installation: We ensure that your new AC system is installed correctly for optimal performance and longevity.
- Ongoing Support: From regular maintenance to emergency repairs, we offer comprehensive services to keep your AC running smoothly.
Choosing the right air conditioning system is a crucial decision that can impact your comfort and energy bills for years to come. Let us help you make the right choice. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a cooler, more comfortable home this summer.
As temperatures rise here in the Denver metro area, the last thing you want is for your air conditioning to fail you when you most need it. Imagine cranking up the AC on a scorching day, only to be met with warm air! There are a few DIY steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling us. Here’s a quick guide to help you diagnose and potentially fix common AC problems yourself.
Check Thermostat Settings:
The first step in troubleshooting your AC is to check the thermostat settings. Ensure it’s set to “cool” and that the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, make sure the system is switched to “on”. When first turning on your system for the season, these small details can be overlooked.
Dirty Air Filter:
You’ve heard us say it over and over, but one of the most common culprits behind an underperforming HVAC system is a dirty air filter. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making it harder for your AC to cool your home effectively. Especially in Denver’s dusty climate, it’s essential to replace your air filter regularly. This is especially important if you have pets at home, as pet hair can quickly clog up filters.
Frozen Coils:
If your air conditioner is blowing cold air but very little of it, the coils might be frozen. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including a dirty filter, a thermostat set too low, or even a refrigerant leak. Turn off your AC and allow the ice to melt naturally before restarting it. If the issue persists, please contact us for further diagnosis and repair.
Tripped Circuit Breaker:
Check your breaker box to see if the circuit breaker has tripped and reset it if necessary. However, be cautious not to overload the circuit by turning on other appliances at the same time. If the breaker trips again, it could indicate a more significant electrical issue that requires the expertise of a qualified electrician.
Blower Fan Issues:
If you can hear your AC running but no air is flowing through the vents, the blower fan might be the culprit. This could be due to a faulty motor, a loose belt, or other mechanical issues. Attempting to fix blower fan issues on your own can be complex and potentially dangerous, so it’s advisable to leave it to us, the professionals. Contact us!
Debris Around Outdoor Unit:
Keeping the outdoor unit of your AC system free from debris is crucial for ensuring optimal performance. Leaves and debris tend to accumulate around the outdoor unit over the winter months. These can block airflow and hinder the efficiency of your AC system. Make it a habit to regularly inspect the area around the unit and remove any fallen leaves, twigs, and overgrown vegetation. We also offer an annual AC Tune-Up in which we clean and inspect the outdoor unit.
Remember, Fix-It Now is here whenever you need us, so if the problem persists or if you’re unsure about performing any DIY repairs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance!
How to Choose the Best HVAC Company
In this article, we will discuss how to choose the best HVAC company in the Denver Metro Area of Colorado. You can find the best HVAC companies in your area by doing some research online or talking to your friends and family. When you talk to people that have used an HVAC company before, they can give you some great tips. If you know someone that has used an HVAC service provider in the past, ask them what they thought of it. The best way to find out about an HVAC business is to talk to people that have used it before.
When you are looking for an HVAC company to do work, you should always look for one that has been in business for a reasonable amount of time. You should also check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the company that you are considering. It is important that you get referrals from people that have used the HVAC company that you are interested in. Once you have done your research, you should make sure that you get references from the HVAC company that is available. See if you can find positive reviews on Facebook or a. Google business profile.
Get the most out of your money when you hire an HVAC company
Make sure that they offer you an estimate for the work that they are going to do. The estimate should be a detailed one that shows exactly what the job is going to cost. Once you get an estimate, you should review it with your HVAC company and ensure everything is correct. You should also ask the HVAC company to provide you with a contract so that you can sign it. Once you have signed the contract, you should not change anything until the work has been completed. If you decide to add something to the contract, you should only do it after the work has been completed.
You should always make sure that you get a written guarantee from your HVAC company. This guarantee should cover all aspects of the job that the HVAC company did. It should also cover any damage that may occur due to the work that was done. You should always make sure that you read the guarantee before you sign it. If you do not understand something in the guarantee, you should ask your HVAC service provider to explain it to you.
