Company: A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A Brief Guide to Air Conditioning Repair and When It's Needed

Ways to Identify AC Problems and How Homeowners May Be Able to Solve Them

Air conditioner repair is the key to restoring comfort and efficiency when unexpected problems or breakdowns occur. Therefore, it’s important to know the warning signs that indicate repair is needed. However, there may also be simple fixes homeowners can try before calling professionals for repair. This guide to air conditioning repair will discuss signs to call for repair, common problems, and steps homeowners can take before calling for repair to see if they resolve the issue. 

Signs AC Repair Is Needed

hot at homeThere are several signs that can signal to homeowners that they should call for AC repair. One common sign that the air conditioning system needs repair is the occurrence of unusual sounds. These strange noises can include grinding, squealing, buzzing, banging, and more. Another obvious sign of problems is temperature inconsistencies, insufficient cooling, or when the AC unit blows warm air instead of cool air.

If homeowners have noticed their monthly energy bills rising without explanation, this can also indicate an issue with the air conditioner and the need for repair. Additional red flags include frequent cycling on and off, unusual odors emanating from vents, and moisture accumulation around the indoor unit. When homeowners notice signs of AC problems, they should call professionals to inspect and repair their system, restoring optimal performance and preventing costly breakdowns during the hot summer months.

Common AC Problems

filterWhen homeowners notice signs that their air conditioner needs repair, a professional will inspect the system to identify the underlying issues. There are many possible issues that could be behind the warning signs. However, some are more common and frequent than others. One common issue with a simple fix is dirty air filters. While routine air filter replacement is important, people may underestimate the effects of leaving old and dirty filters in the system. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, which can cause the home to have temperature inconsistencies and poor airflow, forcing the air conditioner to work harder and lose efficiency, which raises energy costs. 

Dirty condenser and evaporator coils can also create a domino effect of problems. When coils accumulate dust and debris, heat transfer efficiency plummets dramatically. The air conditioning unit may struggle to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in longer run times and higher energy bills. Low refrigerant levels, resulting from a refrigerant leak, can cause several warning signs and problems, including warm air coming from the vents instead of cool air, higher cooling costs, unusual noises, ice formation on coils, and potential compressor damage. 

Additionally, thermostat malfunctions can masquerade as major system failures when the solution is often straightforward. Incorrect calibration, dead batteries, or loose wiring connections can cause temperature inconsistencies and inefficiency. When a professional inspects the AC system, they can determine the underlying reason for the issues households are facing.

Things Homeowners Can Try Before Calling for Repair 

Before calling for professional air conditioner repair, homeowners can try troubleshooting several common issues that have simple fixes and may resolve their cooling problems. However, if these things are not the cause of the warning signs and the household’s AC issues, professionals should be called for repair. 

One thing homeowners can check is their AC filters, and replace them if they appear dirty or clogged, as restricted airflow forces the system to work harder and can cause problems. Homeowners should also verify that their thermostat settings are correct and replace the thermostat’s batteries if needed. Another potential simple fix is to check the home's electrical panel to ensure the circuit breaker for the AC system hasn't tripped. Additionally, homeowners can walk through their homes to confirm all air vents remain open and unblocked by furniture, curtains, or debris.

These simple issues could be causing discomfort or issues around the home. However, if these simple steps don't restore proper cooling or the signs that AC repair is needed continue, it's time to contact a technician who can identify and repair the underlying cause of the problems. Continuing to run a malfunctioning air conditioning system can lead to more expensive repairs or complete equipment failure.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a trusted, family-owned and operated company serving the Austin area since 1977. They offer fast, friendly service, flat-rate pricing, and are fully licensed. Call them for AC repair services in Austin, TX.

The Importance of Gutter Cleaning

Why Clean the Rain Gutters?

Gutter cleaning is essential to prevent overflow and many other problems, including protecting a home from costly damage. Discover how regular gutter upkeep can save money in the long run while keeping the home safe. This post will discuss the advantages of gutter cleaning, how often it’s needed, and why hiring professionals to clean the gutters is beneficial.

Benefits of Gutter Cleaning 

rain guttersRegular gutter cleaning delivers substantial benefits that protect the home's structural integrity and prevent costly repairs. When gutters function properly, they channel rainwater away from the home, preventing water damage that can compromise a property's structural elements. Clean gutters are essential for maintaining a home's value and preventing unnecessary expenses.

Protecting the home's foundation is perhaps the most critical benefit of clean gutters. When clogged gutters overflow, water pools around the foundation, potentially causing cracks, settling, and damage. This leads to expensive repairs. Furthermore, proper drainage preserves landscaping by preventing soil erosion and protecting delicate plants from water damage.

The roof and exterior walls also benefit tremendously from well-maintained gutters. As a result, shingles remain intact longer without water backing up underneath them. Clean gutters prevent boards from rotting and protect siding from water stains and deterioration. Additionally, eliminating standing water in gutters removes breeding grounds for pests while preventing mold growth. Properly functioning gutters ensure water flows efficiently through downspouts and away from the property, preventing multiple problems simultaneously and avoiding costly water damage and structural damage.

How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned?

rain guttersRegular gutter cleaning in Austin is essential for maintaining a home's structural integrity and preventing water damage. For optimal results, rain gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, specifically in spring and fall. This seasonal maintenance schedule aligns perfectly with Austin's weather patterns and helps prevent costly repairs. 

In spring, Austin's rainfall can quickly reveal any existing clogs or blockages in the gutter and drainage system, and rain can exacerbate clogs. Cleaning gutters before the rainy season ensures proper water flow away from the foundation and prevents overflow issues. Meanwhile, in the fall, trees shed leaves, twigs, and debris that inevitably find their way into gutters. This accumulated debris creates perfect nesting material for pests and can lead to clogs and gutter sagging from excess weight. It’s recommended to schedule the fall cleaning after most leaves have fallen but before winter weather sets in. 

Why Hire Professionals for Gutter Cleaning?

Homeowners don’t have to clean the gutters themselves and instead can call for handyman services. There are several benefits of hiring professionals, including significant safety benefits. Climbing ladders to clean gutters poses serious fall risks, and injuries can occur from falls and accidents. Professionals have the expertise to effectively remove debris and prevent damage, and are equipped with safety gear to navigate these heights safely. They also have equipment that most homeowners simply don't have access to. 

Additionally, their trained eyes can spot potential problems that homeowners might miss, allowing them to find and fix issues like leaks, damage, drainage issues, and more to avoid costly repairs and water damage. This saves homeowners money in the long run by avoiding water damage to the foundation, the roof, and exterior walls. The time and stress saved by outsourcing this tedious maintenance task allow homeowners to focus on activities they enjoy while protecting their home.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving the Austin community since 1977. They provide flat-rate pricing and fast, friendly service. Call them for handyman services in Austin, TX. 

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Why Schedule Air Conditioner Maintenance This Spring?

The Importance of Air Conditioner Maintenance

Air conditioning maintenance is crucial for keeping a home comfortable, the air conditioner reliable, and reducing the risk of expensive AC repair costs and high energy bills. Regular air conditioner tune-ups in the spring offer a dependable solution to avoid unexpected breakdowns in the summer months when air conditioning is needed most and soaring energy costs. This guide will discuss air conditioner maintenance, including its benefits, what it entails, and when it’s needed.

Benefits of Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance

save moneyScheduling annual air conditioning maintenance delivers many benefits that protect a homeowner’s investment in their cooling system. Regular AC servicing ensures optimal energy efficiency and performance. When an AC unit is well-maintained, it runs more efficiently, uses less energy, and saves homeowners money on cooling costs.

Professional maintenance, especially when done before the summer, helps prevent problems and costly breakdowns during the summer heat, helping avoid being stuck in an uncomfortable home until it can be fixed. Fewer problems and breakdowns also save homeowners money on air conditioner repair costs.

Beyond the more immediate performance and financial benefits, AC tune-ups also help extend the AC system's lifespan, providing long-term financial benefits. Most AC units typically last around 10 to 20 years before needing to be replaced. However, one factor that significantly affects the lifespan of air conditioners is how well they are maintained. When properly maintained, AC units can last for years longer, preventing the need for homeowners to pay for AC replacement earlier than needed.

What Does AC Maintenance Entail?

acProfessional air conditioning maintenance involves a thorough AC inspection and many important tasks to help prevent problems and keep the system operating efficiently. During an air conditioning tune-up, the technician performs a system inspection, examining components for potential issues or damage. Maintenance allows technicians to identify and address any minor issues before they escalate into major problems and more costly repairs, helping homeowners avoid future discomfort and unexpected service calls.

During AC maintenance, professionals can also clean the evaporator and condenser coils, which naturally accumulate dirt and debris over time. Dirty coils force the system to work harder and consume more energy, raising cooling costs, so this cleaning step is crucial for energy efficiency. They also check for loose electrical connections and tighten them as needed, preventing potential hazards and system failures. The technician will verify the thermostat's accuracy and check refrigerant levels to ensure optimal cooling performance. Low refrigerant from a refrigerant leak can significantly impact efficiency and cooling performance. These and other important maintenance tasks help keep the air conditioner running smoothly, efficiently, and last longer. 

How Often Is AC Maintenance Needed?

Professional air conditioner maintenance should be performed annually, ideally in the spring before the intense heat arrives. This timing ensures the AC system is energy efficient, works well, and is ready to handle the upcoming cooling demands of summer. Scheduling AC maintenance in spring allows technicians to identify and fix potential issues before they become costly emergencies or interrupt home comfort during the hottest months of the year.

Additionally, scheduling air conditioner maintenance once a year in the spring is also beneficial because HVAC companies typically have more flexible scheduling options in spring compared to their peak summer rush. As temperatures begin to rise, professionals are often busier with air conditioner repair and replacement. 

While annual maintenance is crucial, homeowners can also perform an important maintenance task more frequently. Air filter replacement is needed more often than professional maintenance, typically every 1-3 months, depending on the filter size, type, and a home's conditions, such as whether there are pets that shed. Households with pets, people with allergies, or high dust levels should replace filters more often. Have homeowners noticed higher energy bills or dust accumulating more quickly? These often signal a clogged or dirty air filter that needs to be changed. Regular AC filter changes improve indoor air quality, energy efficiency, system longevity, and keep energy costs down.  

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has over four decades of experience serving the Austin community. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing solutions, and personable and experienced staff. Call them for air conditioner maintenance and repair services in Austin, TX.

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Home Improvement Projects to Enhance Outdoor Spaces

Enjoy Outdoor Spaces More With These Upgrades

Several outdoor home improvement projects can help transform a tired, boring yard into an inviting outdoor retreat for the family and entertaining. If homeowners are frustrated with dull exteriors, these projects offer a smart way to improve the look and functionality of an outdoor space and add value to the home. This post will share some remodeling ideas for creating a dream outdoor space.

Install a Deck or Patio

Adding a deck or patio to the backyard creates an instant outdoor living space that dramatically enhances a home's functionality and appeal. These versatile outdoor structures serve as the perfect area for entertaining guests, enjoying family meals, or simply relaxing in the fresh air. 

When planning the outdoor deck or patio installation, it’s important to consider how the space will be used. Will the deck or patio be used for hosting large gatherings or intimate dinners? What kind of enhancements should be added to customize the deck or patio? The true magic happens when homeowners customize their outdoor space with thoughtful enhancements based on their wants and needs. Some popular features to consider incorporating to elevate the design include:

  • A gazebo for architectural interest, defining an outdoor space, and providing shade or protection from rain
  • A pergola for defining an outdoor space, creating shade, and an area for string lights, or to support climbing plants
  • Built-in seating to maximize space and provide permanent seating
  • An outdoor kitchen with a grilling station for al fresco dining
  • A covered and screened-in patio for protecting against insects, providing shade, and protection from rain

Whatever customizations are chosen, the new deck or patio can quickly provide an extra living space outdoors to enjoy with the family or be perfect for entertaining guests while boosting the home’s property value when it's time to sell.

Install a Fence

fenceA well-designed fence installation transforms a backyard into a private sanctuary while boosting a home's security and property value. Modern fencing options range from classic wooden pickets to contemporary composite materials, each offering unique benefits for homeowners seeking to define their outdoor boundaries. A fence creates a clear property line and privacy that homeowners and neighbors will appreciate.

Adding a fence enhances home security by creating a physical barrier against unwanted visitors and makes it harder for potential intruders to access the property. Beyond privacy and security, fences provide peace of mind for families with children and pets. The enclosed space allows kids to play freely without constant supervision, while pet owners can relax knowing their furry companions won't wander into traffic or neighboring yards.

Add a Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace

fire pitAdding an outdoor fire pit or fireplace to the yard can create an instant focal point that transforms the outdoor living space into a cozy area that is usable throughout all seasons. These popular outdoor enhancements not only extend entertaining possibilities, so yards can be enjoyed year-round rather than just when it’s warm outside, but can also add value to the property. 

Fire features also create an ambiance that few other elements can match, creating a gathering space outdoors where people can stay warm and cozy. When planning the outdoor fire feature, consider whether a large stone fireplace where people can gather around or a fire pit made of brick, stone, or other materials better suits a homeowner’s wants and budget. Rather than abandoning the upgraded yard during cooler months, a fire pit or fireplace creates a warm gathering spot for family s'mores nights, intimate conversations, or solo relaxation with a good book. Many homeowners report using their outdoor spaces much more, some nearly twice as often, after installing a fire feature. 

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has more than four decades of experience serving the Austin community. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing, and technicians who are friendly, helpful, and professional. Call them for home remodeling services in Austin, TX. 

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The Advantages of Getting a Ductless Mini Split Installation

Why Install a Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner?

If homeowners are looking for a way to keep their homes cool and comfortable but with lower energy bills, installing a ductless mini-split system can be the answer. Ductless mini splits have many benefits, including better energy efficiency and cost savings while eliminating some of the hassles of traditional central AC systems. This post will share some significant benefits of upgrading to a ductless mini-split AC system.

Lower Energy Bills With Better Efficiency

save moneyInstalling a ductless mini-split system can dramatically lower monthly energy bills through superior efficiency ratings and innovative design. Unlike traditional central air systems, mini splits operate without ductwork, eliminating the energy loss that typically occurs in air ducts with central air conditioning. This direct cooling approach without ducts translates to improved efficiency and savings. 

Another way that these systems are cost-effective for homeowners is that their zone-based cooling capability allows homeowners to cool only occupied rooms to their preferred temperature rather than wasting energy on keeping empty spaces as cool as the rest of the home. This precision control maintains consistent comfort when needed while using substantially less electricity on zones that don’t need the same amount of cooling. 

Quicker and Easier Installation

hvacAnother benefit of ductless mini split systems is their remarkably straightforward installation process compared to traditional central air systems. They don’t require installing elaborate ductwork, making the installation faster and easier than central AC systems. The process involves mounting and installing indoor units to serve the room or zone they are located in, connecting them by refrigerant lines to the outdoor unit, and installing the outdoor compressor AC unit or heat pump. 

The absence of ductwork also creates incredible flexibility and ease of installation for adding air conditioning to homes with space constraints. Unlike central air conditioning, which demands the space and structural modifications to install air ducts, mini split installation is perfect for homes or add-ons where installing ductwork for a central air conditioner is impractical. This makes ductless AC systems particularly useful when retrofitting older homes or adding air conditioning to room additions that lack existing ductwork or don’t have the space for it. Rather than undertaking the time-consuming and disruptive process of installing air ducts throughout a house, mini-splits offer a practical alternative with minimal disruption. 

Customized Comfort With Zoning and Flexibility

Ductless mini splits offer remarkable zoning capabilities that traditional central air conditioning systems simply can't match. With multi-zone mini split systems, people can divide their homes into distinct temperature zones, allowing the flexibility for family members to enjoy their preferred comfort levels simultaneously in different parts of the home. This personalized approach eliminates the one temperature for the entire home limitation. Each indoor unit operates independently, so homeowners can keep the living room cooler while maintaining a warmer bedroom, or whichever they prefer. Zoning can help solve temperature disputes and thermostat battles in a household.

The flexibility of zone-based climate control also transforms energy consumption. Rather than having to cool unoccupied rooms to the exact temperature as the rest of the home, homeowners can set different temperatures for unoccupied spaces than those currently in use. This can dramatically reduce energy usage and save homeowners money on utility bills. The system can grow with the household’s needs, too. With room additions or home add-ons, additional temperature zones can be integrated as needed, making ductless mini-splits an adaptable and flexible long-term comfort solution.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a local family-owned and operated company serving the Austin area since 1977. They provide fast, friendly service, flat-rate pricing, and financing. Call them for ductless mini-split installation and repair services in Austin, TX. 

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