The winter air in the Grand Rapids area is naturally drier due to lower outdoor temperatures. Because air isn’t able to hold as much moisture at lower temperatures than when it’s warm, this season is notorious for dry winter air issues in the home.
If you use a humidifier to combat dry air indoors, you may be wondering: “What should I set my humidistat to during the winter months?” A-1 Mechanical shares professional advice for home indoor humidity management this winter, including ideal humidistat settings.
What Is a Humidistat?
First, let’s explain what a humidistat is. A humidistat is a control used for humidity monitoring and to adjust the output of home humidifiers. This device is also sometimes called a hygrometer, which is technically a device that only monitors indoor humidity levels and doesn’t control an appliance.
Think of a humidistat as a thermostat for your whole home humidifier. It shows you a current humidity reading like a thermostat shows the temperature. It also allows you to adjust the use of the humidifier, just as the thermostat allows you to control the use of your heating and air conditioning system.
What Should I Set My Humidistat to in Winter?
You might have heard that the ideal relative humidity for a home is between 30 to 50 percent – and this is generally correct in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. This time of year, keeping relative humidity all the way up to 50 percent can lead to moisture problems indoors, causing condensation on window panes, window framing, and other surfaces.
In the winter when the air is quite cold, keeping your indoor relative humidity level below 30 percent may be more appropriate. Ideal indoor humidity levels really depend on the outdoor air temperature.
If the temperature outdoors is around -10 degrees, set your humidistat at 20 percent.
When the outdoor temperature is near 0 degrees, use a humidistat setting of 25 percent.
For outdoor temperatures around 10 degrees, set the humidistat to 30 percent.
At an outdoor temperature around 20 degrees, a 35 percent humidistat setting is appropriate.
For an outdoor temperature near 30 degrees, set your humidistat at 40 percent.
If you are unable to track the outdoor temperatures day after day, you can find the ideal humidity settings for your home by observing conditions and adjusting the humidistat appropriately. Start with a relative humidity set between the typical 30 to 50 percent. If you notice condensation forming on walls, windows, or other surfaces in the home, adjust your humidistat settings downward to lower the indoor relative humidity level. Lower the relative humidity settings as needed to achieve the ideal indoor humidity conditions for your home and the current outdoor temperature.
Contact A-1 Mechanical for Installation of a Whole House Humidifier
With professional advice from A-1 Mechanical, we hope you’ll be able to easily manage indoor relative humidity levels all through the season! If your home suffers from low humidity in the winter, a whole home humidifier is an excellent solution that will allow you to effortlessly add moisture to your home’s air and achieve a more comfortable indoor environment throughout the winter months. For whole home humidifier installation in Grand Rapids, MI, call A-1 Mechanical today!
As a homeowner, you should already know that replacing your HVAC system’s air filter on a regular basis is important to the longevity of your equipment, system energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. When shopping for a replacement air filter, you may feel overwhelmed with the many different types of HVAC filters available for use with your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump. A-1 Mechanical introduces you to the different types of air filters and explains which one might be best for your home.
Efficiency Ratings of Air Filters
Before we get into the different air filters you can purchase, let’s talk about filter efficiency. All types of air filters use MERV ratings to measure their performance efficiency. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value, and this number tells you how effective a particular filter is at removing airborne particles of a certain size. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter’s performance when removing small pollutant particles.
For air filters that are suitable for use in residential heating and cooling systems, MERV ratings range from 1 to about 13. Though the MERV scale goes all the way up to 20, at a certain point the efficiency of a filter can begin to restrict airflow in an HVAC system which can cause more harm than good. MERV 17 to 20 filters should only be used in commercial buildings and specific environments, while MERV 14 to 16 filters may be used in a residential air cleaner that works alongside the home’s HVAC system.
Typically, new forced air HVAC equipment will come with a standard 1-inch disposable filter that has a MERV rating between 1 to 4. These are the least efficient types of air filters available. Upgrading to a higher MERV filter can provide better protection for your heating and cooling system as well as better contaminant control for improved indoor air quality.
Types of Air Filters for HVAC Systems
There are several different air filter types you can use in your home’s heating or air conditioning system. Each type has its own pros and cons, so familiarize yourself with the options before you shop for replacement filters.
Fiberglass filters: Fiberglass filters use fiberglass material to filter out airborne particles passing through the HVAC system. These air filters are the most budget-friendly option, but their performance is often found lacking by some homeowners. Fiberglass filters have low MERV ratings and are not very effective for removing small particulate matter from the indoor air supply. Also, they need to be replaced more frequently than other types of air filters.
Pleated filters: Pleated filters use a cotton or polyester fiber material for filtration. The material is folded into pleats, providing more surface area to trap contaminant particles. This choice is typically a bit more expensive than fiberglass filters, but they are more efficient for removing finer particles from the air as their MERV ratings tend to run in the middle of the road for residential HVAC filters, giving users a longer filter life compared to lower quality options.
Washable filters: If you’re concerned about waste, you may opt to use a washable filter for your HVAC system. These types of air filters can be reused over and over again – instead of throwing the used filter away and installing a new one, just wash and dry this filter and use it again! These types of air filters are better for the environment because their use reduces waste, which also allows users to save money on purchasing disposable replacement filters. They do have lower MERV ratings than some disposable filters and aren’t extremely effective at filtering out smaller particles. Because of their low MERV rating, homeowners often need to wash these filters several times each year. If you want low-maintenance air filters, disposables may be your preferred choice.
If you have some type of air cleaner or air purification system that uses a filter installed with your HVAC system, there are different types of air filters available for use in this equipment.
Pleated filters designed for use in a media air cleaner filter cabinet can be thicker than ones used in the standard HVAC system, offering higher MERV ratings and longer filter life.
Electrostatic filters offer media filtration and use an electrostatic charge to help capture small particles. They sometimes have difficulty effectively trapping larger contaminants though, like mold spores and large dust particles. Depending on the model, these types of air filters can be disposable or washable.
HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters are extremely efficient, removing as much as 99.97 percent of airborne contaminants including dust, pollen, bacteria, and viruses. Because of their extreme efficiency, HEPA air filters cannot be used in all equipment due to potential airflow restriction.
Find the Right Types of Air Filters for Use in Your HVAC System
Curious as to which types of filters are suitable for use with your HVAC equipment? Contact A-1 Mechanical today to speak with a professional and learn more about your air filter options.
Over the past several years, you may have heard talk about federal tax credits for homeowners who make certain home improvements, such as installing new high-efficiency HVAC equipment. Currently, there is a geothermal tax credit available to Lansing and Grand Rapids area homeowners who install new geothermal heat pump systems that meet certain requirements. A-1 Mechanical shares the details of this credit and why a geothermal system is a great investment for your household.
About the Geothermal Tax Credit
Thanks to the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, there are various renewable energy tax credits available to homeowners across the country. Homeowners can gain this tax savings by installing approved fuel cells, small wind turbines, solar energy systems, or geothermal heat pumps.
Under the current federal geothermal tax credit, homeowners can claim a federal tax credit of 26% of total installation costs for geothermal heat pump systems placed into service before January 1, 2023. This credit is retroactive for all qualifying systems installed starting January 1, 2020 – so if you recently installed a geothermal system at your home, check to see if you qualify for this savings. Starting January 1, 2023, the tax credit amount will drop to 22%, so if you’re considering a new geothermal system, you’ll save more if you install one sooner rather than later.
The geothermal tax credit can be claimed for systems installed at a secondary residence, as it is not required that the credit only be claimed for systems installed at a primary home. In order for a system to meet the requirements for homeowners to claim the geothermal tax credit, the geothermal heat pump installed must meet ENERGY STAR requirements as of the date of the expenditure.
Currently, the specifications for a qualifying geothermal heat pump’s EER (energy efficient ratio) and COP (coefficient of performance) are:
Greater than 17.1 EER and 3.6 COP for water to air closed loop systems
Greater than 21.1 EER and 4.1 COP for water to air open loop systems
Greater than 16.1 EER and 3.1 COP for water to water closed loop systems
Greater than 20.1 EER and 3.5 COP for water to water closed loop systems
Greater than 16 EER and 3.6 COP for direct expansion systems
Benefits of Installing a Geothermal System
Geothermal systems are a type of HVAC system that provides both heating and cooling using natural energy held within the earth. These systems are extremely energy efficient and come with unmatched benefits including:
Extremely long service life. Geothermal heat pumps last about 20 years or more on average, and underground loop components last 50 or more years!
Geothermal heating and cooling equipment makes very little noise while operating so you’re not disturbed by your HVAC system.
Heat pumps used in geothermal systems have few moving parts, requiring less maintenance and experiencing fewer breakdowns than other types of HVAC equipment.
Geothermal systems exchange heat to warm or cool your home, so they use far less electricity than other types of HVAC systems. Using a geothermal system could cut your cooling bills 20 to 50%, and lower your heating bills 30 to 60%!
Get a Quote for Geothermal System Installation Today!
A-1 Mechanical installs geothermal HVAC systems for homeowners throughout the Lansing and Grand Rapids, Michigan areas. If you would like to learn more about geothermal heating and cooling and learn how much you could save by taking advantage of the geothermal tax credit, call A-1 Mechanical today to request an estimate for geothermal system installation.
As fall arrives, heat pump HVAC systems will start to switch gears, giving the cooling cycle a rest as these units are called upon for heating. Over the cooler months, you may experience heat pump problems that can stand in the way of perfect heating for your home. A-1 Mechanical explains how you can troubleshoot some of the most common heat pump problems and get your heating system back up and running again quickly!
What Are the Most Common Heat Pump Problems and How Do You Fix Them?
Blowing cold air instead of warm — check that the thermostat is set to Heat, the fan is on Auto, ensure there’s no ice buildup outside, or wait through the defrost cycle.
Heat pump runs all the time — replace dirty filters, open supply vents/return registers, seal air leaks in ducts or around doors/windows.
Heat pump freezing up — turn off power, melt ice with warm water (never chip it), ensure defrost cycle works properly, clear debris and check gutter drainage.
Why Is Your Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air Instead of Heat?
Heat pumps should blow warm air through the vents when they run as a heating system in fall, winter, and early spring. If you feel cool air coming from your vents, here are a few things to check before you call for repairs to fix your heat pump. For more details, see why your heat pump is not blowing hot air.
Make sure the thermostat is set to HEAT, not COOL. If the thermostat is set to COOL mode, the heat pump will run cooling cycles and produce cool air. Settings are sometimes incorrectly changed, causing heat pumps to blow cool air.
Check the fan settings on the thermostat as well. The fan should be set to AUTO mode, not ON. If the fan is accidentally set to ON, it will blow cool air into the house during times when the heat pump itself is not actively cycling, causing homeowners to think there’s an issue with their heat pump system.
Make sure there is no ice buildup on the outdoor unit. If there is, follow the directions below to melt ice from your unit.
The heat pump could be running its defrost cycle when you feel the cool air. The defrost cycle typically runs for about 10 to 15 minutes – wait it out to see if heat returns in the next half hour or so.
Why Is Your Heat Pump Running Constantly?
If it seems like your heat pump is running around the clock, it may seem like there’s an issue to worry about. However, it can be normal for your heat pump to run for long periods – especially if outdoor temperatures are very cold. There are some issues that can contribute to a heat pump running longer than it needs to. Learn more about why your heat pump is not heating effectively:
Dirty air filters can restrict airflow through the system, forcing your heat pump to run for longer periods to supply the home with enough heating. Check the filter, and replace it with a fresh one if you find the filter is dirty and covered in contaminants.
Make sure all of the supply vents and return air registers in your home are opened and unblocked. These vents can be accidentally covered by furniture, rugs, and other items, which restricts airflow through the house and forces the heat pump to run longer periods.
Air leaks in ducts, window frames, door jambs, and other problematic areas throughout the house could cause your home to take on excess cool air. This lowers the temperature in your home, forcing the heat pump to run longer periods to make up the warmth you need. Air sealing and duct sealing can eliminate this issue.
Why Is Your Heat Pump Frozen and How Can You Fix It?
This problem is more common in the winter when outdoor temperatures are chilly. The outdoor heat pump unit may show a layer of frost or ice on its exterior, which is normal and is periodically removed through the system’s defrost cycle. If the defrost cycle isn’t removing this frost or outside conditions prevent the heat pump from shedding ice, the system will not work correctly. In some cases, you may also need to explore how to choose a new furnace if your current heating system no longer meets your needs.
If you find a heavy layer of ice atop your outdoor heat pump, notice the coils are completely encased in frost or ice, or the entire outdoor unit has a layer of ice around it, the system will not work correctly and could sustain damage if the ice is left for too long.
Shut off power to the heat pump at the circuit breaker in the home.
Use a hose to spray the unit with warm water and melt the ice – do not use objects to chip away ice accumulation as that can damage the heat pump system!
If temperatures are above freezing, restore power to the heat pump and run it in fan mode to blow warm air through the unit and help melt any remaining ice.
Frozen heat pump problems occur for various reasons, such as low refrigerant, issues with the defrost cycle, and even water leaking onto the unit from a faulty gutter above. Make sure overhead gutters are flowing properly, and remove any debris from around your unit. Replace the air filter with a clean one if it is dirty. If the heat pump continues to freeze, call your HVAC company for repairs.
Contact Us for Professional Heat Pump Repair
If you’ve tried the heat pump troubleshooting tips above yet are no closer to solving your heat pump problems, now is the time to contact a heating professional for help. A-1 Mechanical performs heat pump repair services for homeowners throughout the Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan areas. Contact us today to request an appointment for heat pump repair services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What should I do if my heat pump is blowing cold air instead of warm? Answer: First check that the thermostat is set to HEAT, not COOL. Make sure the fan setting is on AUTO rather than ON. Also verify there’s no ice buildup outside, and know that the defrost cycle can temporarily make the air feel cool.
Question: Why does my heat pump seem to run all the time? Answer: Possible causes are a dirty air filter, blocked or closed vents, or air leaks around ducts, windows or doors. These reduce heating efficiency and force the heat pump to operate longer to maintain temperature. Fixing airflow and sealing leaks helps.
Question: How can I tell if my heat pump is freezing up, and what should I do? Answer: If you see heavy frost or ice around the outdoor unit or coils, or if the unit is encased in ice, that indicates a freeze problem. Turn off power, gently melt ice with warm water, make sure gutters and surrounding areas drain properly, and replace dirty filters. If the issue continues, call a technician.
Question: What causes a heat pump to short cycle or turn on and off frequently? Answer: Short cycling can be caused by a clogged air filter, a thermostat issue, or low refrigerant. These problems prevent the system from completing full heating cycles, leading to inefficiency and wear. Cleaning filters and having a pro check refrigerant levels can help.
Cooling replacement starts with choosing and installing a properly sized air conditioner, because the right fit affects comfort, energy use, system reliability, and how long your new unit will last. As you shop for a new cooling system, there is one important question you need to ask: “What size air conditioner do I need?” Selecting the correct size not only improves efficiency but also extends the lifespan of your system. An improperly sized unit can lead to frequent repairs and higher energy bills. Consulting with a professional ensures you make an informed decision tailored to your home’s specific needs.
For homeowners in the Grand Rapids or Lansing area planning to replace an existing AC or install a new one, getting the size right is critical or your comfort and costs will be negatively impacted over the lifespan of your air conditioner. A1 Mechanical shares what you need to know about air conditioner sizing, what factors determine the correct size, why proper sizing matters, and when to get professional help finding the right unit for your home.
Understanding Your Cooling System
A cooling system is designed to regulate the temperature and humidity in your home, ensuring comfort during hot weather. It typically consists of components such as an air conditioner, thermostat, ductwork, and vents. The air conditioner removes heat from the indoor air and transfers it outside, while the thermostat controls when the system turns on and off to maintain the desired temperature. Proper AC maintenance and timely cooling replacement are crucial to keep the system running efficiently, prevent frequent repairs, and extend its lifespan.
Understanding how your cooling system works and recognizing signs of inefficiency can help you make informed decisions about AC repair or replacement, ultimately saving energy and reducing utility bills.
What Does Air Conditioner Size Mean?
Air conditioner sizing doesn’t refer to the physical dimensions of the new unit, but rather its capacity to cool a space. Air conditioner sizes are referred to in tons, but tonnage does not refer to the unit’s weight – tonnage refers to the air conditioner’s capacity to remove heat from the home.
The tonnage of an air conditioning unit describes the amount of heat the system can remove over the course of one hour to cool the home. In the HVAC industry, we use British thermal units (BTUs) to measure heat, and there are 12,000 BTUs of heat per one ton of air conditioning. So, a 2-ton air conditioning unit can remove 24,000 BTUs of heat each hour; a 3-ton air conditioner removes 36,000 BTUs of heat per hour, and so on.
Why It’s Important to Buy the Right Size Air Conditioner
When you find out the right size air conditioner your home needs, it’s important you stick to this size as you purchase your new cooling replacement unit. Air conditioners are not one-size-fits-all, and it’s not wise to size up or down to find a better fit as you can do with clothing and other items. This is because the size of your unit will impact the amount of energy the air conditioner consumes, how it operates, and the comfort levels inside your home.
If you buy an air conditioner that is too small for the home, the unit will not have enough capacity to remove the necessary heat from the space in order to keep rooms at comfortable temperatures. The unit will run more often as it attempts to make up for its shortcomings, wasting energy and increasing wear and tear, which causes more breakdowns and repairs as well as earlier system failure.
An oversized air conditioner won’t keep your home comfortable, either. With excess capacity, the AC unit will rapidly cool but fail to do so evenly, causing discomfort. This creates cooling cycles that are much too short for the health of the appliance, which strain the equipment, add wear and tear, and take the system out of service sooner than a correctly sized air conditioner. They will also not run long enough to remove humidity from the air.
How to Tell If Your Current Air Conditioner Is the Wrong Size
Your current air conditioner may be the wrong size if you notice uneven temperatures from room to room, frequent cycling on and off, unusually high energy bills, or poor humidity control. An undersized system often runs almost constantly yet struggles to maintain comfortable temperatures during hot summer days, leading to increased energy consumption and wear. Conversely, an oversized system cools the house too quickly but doesn’t run long enough to properly remove moisture, resulting in damp or uncomfortable rooms. Additional signs include frequent repairs, inconsistent comfort levels, and persistent hot or cold spots. If you experience any of these issues, it’s wise to have a professional evaluate your system’s size and consider a cooling replacement to enhance efficiency, comfort, and reduce long-term costs.
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
The best way to find out what size air conditioner your home needs is to work with a qualified HVAC technician. Many components play a role in determining the right size AC unit for a home – it’s not just about square footage. Various elements, to name a few, that impact the home’s cooling load (how much heat needs to be removed) include:
Square footage
Number of stories
Ceiling heights
Number of windows and doors
Insulation levels
Building materials
Number of occupants
Home’s orientation
These elements are factored in as a professional HVAC technician performs a Manual J load calculation, which provides the home’s cooling load. This calculation indicates how many BTUs of heat need to be removed from the space over the course of an hour, so you’ll know the appropriate capacity in tons for your new air conditioner.
Why a Manual J Load Calculation Is Better Than Guessing by Square Footage
While square footage is an important starting point, it should not be the only factor used to choose a new air conditioner for your cooling replacement. Two homes with the same square footage can have very different cooling needs depending on ceiling height, insulation levels, window placement, sun exposure, ductwork condition, and the number of people living in the home. A Manual J load calculation takes these details into account to determine the actual cooling load of the house, helping ensure your new system is neither too large nor too small. This professional approach gives homeowners a more accurate recommendation, better comfort, improved efficiency, and stronger long-term performance from their cooling replacement. By using this precise method, you can avoid the common pitfalls of improper sizing and end up with a system that suits your home perfectly, ultimately saving on price and energy costs.
Find the Right Air Conditioner for Your Grand Rapids or Lansing Home
If you’re in the market to buy a new central air conditioner, it’s time to call A1 Mechanical. Our knowledgeable HVAC technicians will determine the right size unit for efficient AC performance and reliable comfort in your home, recommend the best option across a range of systems based on your home’s needs, and provide skilled installation so your new cooling system performs as expected. High Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings can reduce utility bills, and while higher-efficiency units cost more upfront, they can lower long-term utility bills.
For homes without ductwork, ductless mini-split ACs or ductless mini-split heat pumps are a modern cooling replacement option that some homeowners prefer. In addition to installation, we offer regular maintenance for cooling and heating systems to ensure your system stays running smoothly for years. Regular maintenance helps a homeowner prevent expensive repair bills, which can range from $100 to $5,000+ nationally, and avoid other problems that affect longevity and efficiency. Replacement is often worth considering when repair costs exceed 50% of the price of a new system. Ideally, start maintenance at least once a year, preferably before the summer season, to keep your cooling system in top shape.
Contact us today to request a quote or to get the answer to your questions via email. We take pride in serving our community and treating every customer like family. Our recommendations are based on years of experience and a practical approach to helping you save money on energy bills while maintaining comfort in your home. Visit our page for more guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What size air conditioner do I need for my home? Answer: The right air conditioner size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, ceiling height, windows, construction, and several other factors that affect heat gain. A professional Manual J load calculation provides a more accurate recommendation than choosing a system based on square footage alone.
Question: How do I calculate what size air conditioner I need? Answer: HVAC professionals typically use a Manual J load calculation to determine how much cooling your home requires based on its size, layout, insulation, windows, occupants, and other conditions. This calculation estimates the required BTUs per hour and helps identify the appropriate air conditioner capacity.
Question: What do BTUs and tons mean for air conditioner size? Answer: Air conditioner size refers to the system’s cooling capacity, which is commonly measured in BTUs per hour or tons. One ton of air conditioning equals 12,000 BTUs per hour, so a 2-ton system provides approximately 24,000 BTUs of cooling capacity.
Question: What happens if my air conditioner is too small? Answer: An undersized air conditioner may run for long periods without adequately cooling your home, especially during hot weather. The extra operating time can increase energy use, place additional strain on the system, and potentially contribute to more frequent repairs or premature equipment wear.
Question: Can an air conditioner be too large for a home? Answer: Yes, an oversized air conditioner can cool the space too quickly and shut off before completing a proper cooling cycle. This short cycling can lead to uneven temperatures, poor humidity control, higher equipment wear, and less efficient overall performance.
Schedule your cooling replacement with A1 Mechanical now and experience the perfect climate in your home!
Homeowners tackle maintenance tasks throughout the year to protect their homes, keep their residences looking good, and to make their loved ones as comfortable as possible. Heating and cooling systems like furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, and other units require regular maintenance, but too often, homeowners overlook this critical service. Find out how you can simplify the upkeep of your home and gain value with an HVAC maintenance plan.
What Is HVAC Maintenance, and Why Is It Needed?
HVAC systems need to be maintained each year by a reputable heating and air conditioning professional. Professional maintenance is a service that inspects, tests, and services critical components of the HVAC system. Professional maintenance is necessary for numerous reasons, including:
Improves system performance
Increases energy efficiency
Reduces wear and tear
Minimizes system breakdowns
Extends system service life
Maintains warranty coverage
A professional tune up should be in addition to simple maintenance you perform between service visits, not in place of it – you still need to change your air filter regularly and correct airflow blockages, along with other routine tasks. Heating systems like furnaces and boilers as well as air conditioners require one annual tune up. Heat pump systems that provide both heating and air conditioning for the home should be tuned up twice per year.
What Is an HVAC Maintenance Plan?
It’s easy to forget to schedule heating and cooling maintenance tune ups throughout the year. Many homeowners don’t pay much mind to HVAC equipment unless it’s causing issues – they are largely out of sight and out of mind. However, skipping this important service can have serious negative consequences when it comes to the condition of your equipment, the comfort of your home, and even your manufacturer’s warranty coverage.
To help homeowners stay on top of their home heating and cooling system maintenance needs, many HVAC contractors in Grand Rapids and throughout the country offer HVAC maintenance plans. HVAC maintenance plans go by many names – you may also hear a heating and cooling contractor refer to them as preventative maintenance agreements, PMAs, service agreements, service plans, or another similar term. While terms vary by company, HVAC maintenance plans include annual heating and cooling tune ups, and often other valuable perks such as discounts and priority service.
Why Should Homeowners Enroll in HVAC Maintenance Plans?
Enrollment in an HVAC maintenance plan provides various benefits that offer value to the homeowner.
Your annual heating and cooling system tune ups are covered under HVAC maintenance plans. Maintenance plan members are already on the contractor’s radar, so tune up services can be completed ahead of heating and cooling seasons. Many HVAC maintenance plans include priority scheduling of these appointments, and the company will call you to set a date and time that’s convenient for you. You don’t have to remember to make the call and schedule these services yourself, risking the possibility of forgetting.
HVAC maintenance plans ensure your heating and cooling systems receive the dedicated care they need each year to improve performance for better comfort, ensure peak operating efficiency for lower energy costs, reduce the impact of wear and tear to prevent breakdowns and keep your unit in service longer. Tune ups also uphold the terms of your equipment warranty so this protection will be valid should you ever need it.
Most HVAC maintenance plans include much more than two annual system tune ups, though. Contractors often offer extra perks for maintenance plan members that go beyond maintenance and enhance convenience and control costs for the homeowner when other services are needed. Repair discounts lower the cost of any repair that may pop up over the season. Equipment discounts and credits can lower the price of new heating and cooling systems when it’s time to replace your units.
Take Care of Your HVAC Maintenance Needs with A-1 Mechanical
A-1 Mechanical offers HVAC maintenance plans for homeowners across the Grand Rapids and Lansing areas. With annual tune up services plus valuable perks for repairs and system replacement, joining a maintenance plan provides the assurance that your comfort systems will be properly cared for. Contact our team today to learn more about available heating and cooling maintenance plans.
The summer heat can drive up energy bills for homeowners in the Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan areas. With the right tools, though, you can gain increased control over cooling system usage as well as home comfort. Consider having a programmable thermostat installed to save energy and lower heating and cooling bills.
In our most recent blog, the HVAC technicians at A-1 Mechanical discuss the benefits of programmable thermostats and why you should have one installed in your home.
Cut Summer Air Conditioning Costs
Reduced heating and cooling system energy consumption is one of the most well-known benefits of a programmable thermostat. Starting around the turn of the century, this technology has been promoted as a gold standard for HVAC system control and energy conservation.
The programming features help homeowners achieve the lengthy periods of temperature setbacks needed to generate noticeable energy savings related to heating and cooling. Homeowners are able to schedule six or more temperature adjustments in a day, making it easy to program comfortable, cool temperatures when the family wakes up and returns home after a day away. They can also automatically set temperatures higher during long periods when the household is away or asleep.
The U.S. Department of Energy states that you can save as much as 10 percent on cooling costs when thermostats are turned up 7 to 10 degrees higher than the usual home temperature for just 8 hours each day. The scheduling benefits of a programmable thermostat help homeowners easily achieve such energy savings without making multiple trips to the thermostat each day.
Ensure Precision Comfort, 24 Hours a Day
The scheduling benefits of a programmable thermostat offer more than just energy savings – this technology allows homeowners to precisely cool their living spaces according to the family’s unique routines. Setting higher temperatures to generate savings can create some discomfort when a manual thermostat is used, as the home cannot return to lower, more comfortable temperatures until someone is physically present to make the adjustment.
One of the important benefits of a programmable thermostat is the availability of multiple scheduling capabilities. Programmable thermostat models are available in four unique configurations, allowing homeowners to choose the option that best fits the day-to-day comings and goings of the household.
A 1-week model runs the set daily temperature schedule every day of the week.
A 5-2-day model allows one set of temperature schedules each weekday, while a unique temperature schedule can be programmed to run on the weekend days.
A 5-1-1-day model lets you program one set of temperature schedules to run each weekday, as well as a unique schedule on Saturday and another unique schedule on Sunday.
A 7-day model allows unique temperature schedules to be programmed for each of the seven days of the week.
Following the household’s daily routine, temperature adjustments can be scheduled to start slightly before family members arrive home or wake up. Program your thermostat to initiate a temperature change, bringing the indoor temperature down from a lengthy setback period about 15 minutes before the household becomes active. This will bring the home to a comfortable temperature when everyone is home and awake to enjoy it. Also, schedule setback periods to start about 15 minutes or more before the home empties or the household heads to bed – the living areas will stay cool during this period without additional energy usage by the air conditioning system.
If daily plans suddenly change, it’s no problem when your programmable thermostat is equipped with features like Wi-Fi connectivity! Remote access is one of the valuable benefits of a programmable thermostat that has a wireless Internet connection. Using a mobile app, you can adjust thermostat settings from just about anywhere!
Gain the Benefits of a Programmable Thermostat Today!
It’s easy to start reaping the benefits of a programmable or smart thermostat in your home. Turn to A-1 Mechanical for installation of a programmable thermostat in your Lansing or Grand Rapids area home! With a number of quality programmable thermostats to choose from, you’ll find the best choice for your household’s needs. Contact us today to request an estimate for programmable thermostat installation.
Cool air blowing throughout your home provides a refuge from hot summer days. When you find the air conditioner blowing warm air, your frustration levels are likely to rise alongside the heat within your house! As frustrating as it may be, air conditioning, or AC, blowing hot air is actually a pretty common problem. Many causes may be resolved with some DIY troubleshooting of your air conditioning unit.
As a local Grand Rapids business, the technicians at A-1 Mechanical aim to protect the safety of our neighbors. Before you experience an issue within your AC unit know the most common causes, what to do to fix it, and when to call in our expert air conditioner repair pros for solutions. This may keep your AC unit blowing cold air without interruption.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Hot Air?
Your air conditioner may blow hot air when something blocks cooling or airflow through the system. Before scheduling air conditioning repair, check the most common causes:
The thermostat is set to HEAT instead of COOL
The fan is set to ON instead of AUTO
The air filter is dirty or clogged
The outdoor unit is blocked by dirt or debris
The evaporator or condenser coils are dirty or frozen
The thermostat is old, locked, or not responding correctly
If these steps do not restore cool air, a professional can diagnose the central air system and make the right repair.
Why Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air
If you have an air conditioner blowing hot air during the summer months, here are the most common causes and what you can do to correct them or when you should call for AC repair services.
Incorrect Thermostat Settings
In larger households, it’s easy for thermostat settings to be adjusted without the knowledge of other family members. If someone accidentally turns the thermostat to HEAT mode, it won’t be your air conditioning system generating hot air – it’s actually your furnace running, heating the home! If vents are blowing warm air check your thermostat first.
Another issue with thermostat settings that can send hot air into the home is a fan set to ON mode instead of AUTO. When the AUTO setting is selected, your HVAC system’s fan only runs with a cooling cycle to circulate chilled air into living spaces across the house. When ON mode is selected, the fan will run all the time. In between cooling cycles, the fan pushes warm air through the vents, because air is not actively being cooled.
Some thermostats feature a lock setting. This feature prevents switching between modes and adjusting the temperature settings. Since many homeowners only interact with the thermostat occasionally, it is easy to think you changed modes even though the thermostat was locked. In these cases, the issue is simple to resolve.
Whenever you have an AC system that’s blowing hot air, it’s wise to check the thermostat settings first.
Make sure the thermostat switch is set to COOL mode, not HEAT or HEAT/COOL.
Check the fan settings switch and make sure it is set to AUTO mode, and not ON.
On smart thermostats you should verify that the app is working by adjusting settings directly on the display.
As they age, thermostats can become faulty. Components may corrode and fail due to time, power surges and other factors. If the display is not working properly or if the thermostat is over 10 years old, our team can install a new thermostat and improve the efficiency of your system.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter can cause your air conditioner to blow hot air out of the vents. When contaminants build up, a blockage may be created. Clogged air filters force your cooling system to work harder, starving the system of the air needed to circulate smoothly. Your air handler may not be able to generate enough airflow, leaving the air feeling warm as it exits your vents. All the while, clogged air filters will be wasting electricity as the air handler attempts to compensate for the restricted filter.
When your AC is blowing hot air, check your HVAC filter and replace it as needed. It’s wise to check air filters once per month in the summer, as replacement may be needed more often during this season of increased system usage.
Remove the old filter from the filter cabinet.
Look at the filter’s surface – if it is completely caked in grayish material, it needs to be replaced. If you are unsure, hold the filter up to a light and see if you notice any light shining through. If no light passes through the filter, replace it. The basic rule is to replace dirty filters once every month during the hottest and coldest months.
Insert a new filter into the filter cabinet. Make sure to follow the airflow arrows on its frame which tell you the proper direction for filter installation. Make sure the filter is the correct size and fits snugly into the cabinet.
Dirty Outdoor Unit
Blowing warm air may also be due to blockages and clogs in the outdoor unit. A unit needs airflow to work optimally and stay cool. A dirty outdoor unit may overheat or experience unnecessary failure. During annual tune ups our technicians completely inspect and condition the AC unit. Detecting a refrigerant leak, damaged refrigerant line and especially dirty condenser coils is part of professional maintenance. If your outdoor AC unit is dirty, you should refer to the owner’s manual and most likely contact our team.
AC Coils
Frozen evaporator coils should prompt a call to our team. Your central air conditioner or heat pump uses two sets of coils – the indoor evaporator coil, and the outdoor condenser coil. If either of these coils are dirty, the system struggles to complete heat transfer, which can result in your AC blowing warm air. A dirty evaporator coil prevents it from absorbing heat within the indoor air; dirt on the condenser coil, meanwhile, prevents the system from efficiently releasing heat outdoors.
Coil cleaning is a job best left to the professionals. If you suspect your coils may be dirty, you can check by disconnecting power to the system and opening the access door to your furnace or air handler indoors to check the condition of the evaporator coils, or look inside the outdoor condenser unit or heat pump unit to check the condenser coils. If either are covered in dirt or grime, call your HVAC company to clean the coils.
Schedule AC Repair When Your Air Conditioner Blows Hot Air
If you have an AC blowing warm air and the above troubleshooting steps don’t work, call A-1 Mechanical to perform air conditioner repairs at your home. Our technicians perform diagnostics to find out why you have an air conditioner blowing hot air so the correct repairs can be made to solve the problem once and for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why is my air conditioner blowing hot air instead of cold air? Answer: Your air conditioner may blow hot air because of incorrect thermostat settings, a dirty air filter, a dirty outdoor unit, or dirty or frozen AC coils. A-1 Mechanical recommends checking simple settings first, then calling for professional AC repair if the system still does not cool properly.
Question: What thermostat settings should I check if my AC is blowing warm air? Answer: Make sure your thermostat is set to COOL, not HEAT or HEAT/COOL. You should also set the fan to AUTO instead of ON. When the fan runs constantly, it can push warm air through the vents between cooling cycles, even when the air conditioner itself is not actively cooling.
Question: Can a dirty air filter make my AC blow hot air? Answer: Yes, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and make your air conditioner work harder than it should. When the system cannot move enough air, the air coming from your vents may feel warm. During heavy summer use, A-1 Mechanical recommends checking your filter monthly and replacing it when dirty.
Question: Should I call a professional if my AC coils are dirty or frozen? Answer: Yes, dirty or frozen AC coils should be handled by a professional HVAC technician. Coils help transfer heat, and when they are dirty or frozen, your system may struggle to cool your home. A-1 Mechanical can inspect the system, clean the coils, and diagnose the cause.
Question: When should I schedule AC repair for warm air from my vents? Answer: Schedule AC repair if thermostat checks, filter replacement, and basic troubleshooting do not solve the problem. A-1 Mechanical’s technicians can perform diagnostics to find the cause of hot air from your AC and make the right repairs so your system can cool reliably again.
It seems like each summer is hotter than the last. Brutally hot summers make air conditioning a necessity. Before summer starts, turn on your air conditioning system to make sure it runs and is efficiently cooling your home.
A common issue the technicians at A-1 Mechanical frequently see during the summer months is an AC that is running but not cooling the house down. If this is the case, A-1 Mechanical has a few steps you can try to make your home cool again. In our most recent blog, we’ll explain what you can do yourself and when it’s best to call a professional HVAC company.
Troubleshooting Your AC Problems
If your air conditioner is running but not cooling your house, doing a little poking around yourself might just solve your problem without calling an HVAC company. Even if you can’t fix it, you can save your technician a lot of time by telling them what you’ve tried already.
Thermostat Set Incorrectly
This might seem silly, but it happens all the time. Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and is set at the desired temperature. Sometimes people accidentally turn the fan on but don’t turn the air conditioner on. This won’t cool your house.
Dirty Air Filter
This is one of the most common causes for a system that is running but not providing any cooling. On your air conditioner, there is an air filter that catches dust, dirt, and airborne particles. If your HVAC filter is clogged, it can restrict the airflow to the air conditioner. Replacing the filter might be the solution.
Frozen Air Conditioner
If you’ve replaced the filter and are still not feeling cold air, then peek inside your air conditioner. If you find ice or condensation, then your air conditioner might be frozen. There are a few reasons as to why this could happen. Turn off the air conditioner and melt the ice before you call a technician. You can do this by turning on only the fan on the air conditioner or using a hairdryer to speed the process along. Once the ice is melted, try running the AC again.
When to Call an HVAC Technician
Did you try all those steps and still don’t have relief? Then it’s time to call an HVAC system technician. Here are a few other common problems that are best solved by A-1 Mechanical’s air conditioner service team.
Condenser Unit Is Blocked
A dirty or clogged condenser can also cause an AC system to run but not provide cooling. The condenser is a coil that pulls heat energy out of your home. These can get clogged with dirt, grass, and other airborne debris. It’s best to let a technician properly clean the coil to ensure no accidental damage.
Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is a chemical that cools the air before it’s transmitted into your home. It is not like the oil for your car that needs to be replaced regularly, but if it does start leaking, it could cause problems. An AC technician will be able to refill your refrigerant to proper levels and stop any leaks.
Do I Need to Replace My Air Conditioner?
Don’t fret if your AC unit is running but not providing cool air. The best indication for replacing your air conditioner is the age of your unit. Because air conditioners are outside, they have a shorter lifespan than furnaces and usually last about 15-20 years. If your air conditioner is older than that, you might want to consider an upgrade.
Call A-1 Mechanical to Stay Cool This Summer
The best way to make sure your air conditioner keeps you cool is by having it inspected and cleaned in the spring. An A-1 technician will be able to replace any defective parts and let you know if you’re due for an upgrade. Call A-1 Mechanical today to schedule your seasonal AC checkup.
Isn’t it awful when one member of your family has a cold, and then the next thing you know, everyone in your house is sick? Improving the indoor air quality in your home with a whole home air purifier can make a big difference in your family’s health. But how do you choose an air purifier that’s right for you? Luckily, the heating and cooling experts at A-1 Mechanical offer two fantastic whole-house air cleaning solutions, and we’ll help you find out which one will be the most effective in your home.
Why Do I Need a Whole House Air Purifier?
The best way to fill your house with clean air is to open the windows and allow the outdoor air to enter and cycle around your house. This may be difficult to do in colder months, though, or if anyone in your family has seasonal outdoor allergies. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans spend almost 90% of their time indoors, which exposes them to 2-5 times the pollutants than they would be exposed to outdoors.
Air cleaners, air purifiers, and air filtration systems all essentially do the same thing; they filter out the contaminants in the air. A lot of these contaminants are living in your vents and HVAC system. When air passes through your HVAC system, it will pass through your new air cleaner’s filter, which strips the air of certain contaminants before it comes out of the registers and into your living areas.
How to Choose an Air Purifier
A-1 Mechanical offers two excellent options to purify the air in your home. You might notice that one is called an “air purifier” and one is an “air filter.” You may be wondering what the difference is between the two types.
The main difference is the type of filter they offer. Air cleaners use fiberglass and activated carbon to filter the air, while air purifiers use a more intense filter with negative ions to sanitize the air. The strength of the filters determines what kind of germs can be caught in them. A filter’s strength is measured in Maximum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERV rating. This rating is between 1-20. The higher the MERV rating, the better it is.
Infinity Air Purifier
The infinity air purifier is a top-of-the-line product for superior indoor air quality. It has been proven effective against human influenza, common cold germs, and streptococcus pyogenes.
These filters have a 15 MERV rating and can remove common household pollutants from the air such as smoke, odors, dust, and pet dander. They are compatible with most home’s HVAC systems and come with a one-year parts warranty.
Comfort EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter
The Comfort EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter is what some might call an “air cleaner.” Although effective in removing very small particles, air cleaners fall short at sanitizing the air. They remove allergens and dust from circulating in your HVAC system but are not great at removing bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that make us sick.
If members of your family suffer from asthma or intense allergies, this is a great choice for you. With a MERV rating of 10, this filter removes up to 65% of airborne particles.
Which Air Purifier Should I Choose?
Choosing an air purifier can seem like a difficult task. You need to ask yourself: which particles bother you and your family the most? If your family seems constantly sick, or someone in your home has COVID-19, the Infinity Air Purifier is probably the best choice for you to stop the spread of germs. This might also be a good choice if you have pets.
If your family suffers from seasonal allergies or asthma but is otherwise healthy, the Comfort EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter would be a great match for your family.
Call A-1 Mechanical to Start Breathing Easy
If you’re buying an air purifier, the best way to be sure you choose the best model for your home is to talk to one of A-1 Mechanical’s indoor air quality experts. They’ll assess your needs and help you solidify your choice of air cleaning solutions. Call us today to learn more.
