Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell So Bad?

June 26th, 2020
Air Conditioning

Have you noticed a funky odor in your Lansing or Grand Rapids area home lately? If the unwelcome aroma persists despite your best efforts to banish it through extra cleaning and other measures, the source could be something you never thought to consider – your air conditioner.

When an air conditioner smells bad, it leads to a lingering odor and an issue many in the HVAC business refer to as dirty sock syndrome – named after the distinctive smell it produces within the home. A-1 Mechanical explains the source of this unpleasant problem and what to do to rid your home of the stench.

The Reason Your Air Conditioner Smells Bad

A smelly air conditioner and the resulting dirty sock syndrome often stems from mold and mildew within the cooling unit. Your evaporator coil can easily become a prime location for this unwanted growth and collection. Moisture produced through cooling air – combined with poor air filtration and collecting debris deposited by cycling air – deliver prime conditions for mold and mildew to develop and linger.

Issues That Cause Air Conditioner Odors

As explained, the development of mold and mildew produce the foul odor experienced all the way inside the home. Mold isn’t supposed to grow and thrive in a home’s air conditioner. If your AC smells bad, you need to pay close attention to the areas below. Take action to prevent these problems in your Grand Rapids or Lansing area home, and stop cooling system odors from seeping into your living areas.

Inadequate Filtration

Your air conditioning system removes airborne contaminants from incoming air in order to protect sensitive equipment from damage that results when dust, dirt and other foreign matter builds up within. A secondary benefit of this system protection is cleaner air for your living areas. When contaminants are properly filtered out of the home’s air supply, living areas remain smelling fresh.

The first step in fighting dirty sock syndrome is regular air filter replacement. When homeowners neglect this important task, contaminants build up within the air conditioner, contributing to mold and mildew growth.

Today’s homeowners are increasingly concerned with their indoor air quality and the effects it has on a household’s health and comfort. For this reason, many in the Greater Lansing and Grand Rapids areas choose to utilize advanced air filtration methods such as whole-home media air cleaners and ultraviolet air purifiers to increase their control over indoor airborne contaminants. In the fight against dirty sock syndrome, UV air purifiers are especially helpful. Installed within cooling system ducts, this technology neutralizes mold spores, killing them and preventing regeneration.

Whether you rely on just a furnace filter or use advanced air filtration methods to keep your air conditioning system and your indoor air supply clean, these components are only helpful when they operate correctly. Dirty air filters and improperly installed air filtration devices are unable to do their job, which means mold and mildew continue to thrive unchecked.

Dirty Evaporator Coils

When warm air enters the cooling system from the home, it flows over the air conditioner’s evaporator coils where heat is extracted to lower air temperature. Without effective filtration methods in place, contaminants remain in the air supply and have the opportunity to settle on the evaporator coils during the cooling process. Combined with excess moisture, the dust and dirt left on the system’s coils create a breeding ground for mold and odors. The distinct, musty smell of mold is carried back into your home as cycling air moves over the coils during a cooling cycle.

Evaporator coils need to be cleaned for the elimination of dirt, debris, mold and mildew. Homeowners often turn to their trusted HVAC contractor to perform this essential maintenance service to protect the integrity and function of the system.

Clogged Condensate Drain

The cooling process extracts moisture from the home’s air supply, which means the air conditioner’s evaporator coil is normally exposed. The system’s drip pan and condensate drain lines function to remove this byproduct of cooling to control moisture levels within the evaporator coil cabinet, which deters mold growth.

However, if moisture collects in the drip pan and/or condensate drain line and does not properly exit the home, moisture surrounding the evaporator coils increases and creates the conditions mold needs to grow and remain. When your home’s air conditioning unit smells bad, the drip pan and condensate drain line need to be inspected as clogs can develop and block the removal of moisture from the air conditioner.

Extra Large Air Conditioner

Air conditioners that have a capacity too high for the home contribute to mold and mildew development. Oversized air conditioners complete cooling cycles too quickly; the air temperature is lowered to the setpoint before the system is able to dehumidify it. Moisture remains in the air as it travels throughout the cooling system and the home, which enables mold growth and odors in the home.

If Your Air Conditioner Smells Bad, Call A-1 Mechanical!

If your home’s air conditioner smells bad, odor isn’t the only problem you have. Mold and mildew are likely present, and will continue to be until their ideal environment is eliminated within your cooling equipment. There are other AC smells you should keep an eye out for, too. If your AC smells like rotten eggs, it could be an indication of a dead animal in the system or a natural gas leak. Either way, contact an HVAC company immediately.

A-1 Mechanical’s skilled air conditioner technicians are trained to remedy the indoor air quality and cooling system issues that cause mold and mildew to flourish within your equipment. If your air conditioner smells bad, contact us right away. Whether your home needs air conditioner maintenance, repair, replacement or indoor air quality services, we get the job done quickly to restore health, comfort and a clean scent to your household.

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Why is My AC Running but Fan Not Spinning?

May 29th, 2020
Mechanical Fan

Summers in central Michigan are hot, and you need a reliable air conditioner to provide relief indoors when it’s too hot and humid to be outside.

Unfortunately, air conditioners can break down for a number of reasons – leaving you to sweat it out while you search for a reliable HVAC company to make the repair. One frustrating scenario the HVAC technicians at A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling have seen many times is when an air conditioner’s condenser fan stops spinning, even though the actual system is running.

At A-1 Mechanical, we’ve provided homeowners in Grand Rapids and Lansing with reliable and trustworthy HVAC service since 1983. Our NATE-certified technicians are expertly trained to make all types of air conditioning repairs, including repairing condenser fans that suddenly stop working. Give A-1 Mechanical a call today to schedule service.

Why Did My Air Conditioner’s Fan Stop Running?

If your air conditioning is running but there is no cool air and the fan isn’t spinning, it’s best to call an HVAC company to properly diagnose the issue. There are several possible reasons why your air conditioner’s fan isn’t working, including:

Issues with the capacitor

One of the most common reasons fans stop spinning is because of a dead capacitor. The AC’s capacitors are small, cylinder components that send energy signals to power the fan motor and the rest of the AC unit. Each air conditioning system has several capacitors, including the start capacitor, which sends signals to the motor, and the run capacitor, which keeps the motor running. Capacitors can go bad over time and need to be replaced.

Power issues

It can be as simple as a power issue. If the circuit breaker is tripped due to overheating, it will cause your AC to stop running. This can be fixed by flipping the switch at the circuit breaker.

Burnt-out motor

Another common reason fans stop working is a burnt out fan motor. When fan motors are overworked – coupled with a lack of maintenance – they can tend to go bad and burn out. AC fan motors are expensive to replace and may lead to system replacement.

Blocked air filter

A blocked air filter restricts air flow, which can cause ice to build up. This puts more stress on the air conditioner’s fan and can cause it to shut down. Change your HVAC filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.

A faulty belt

Older AC condensers use a belt. Over time, belts can slip off or break. This can be easily fixed by an HVAC technician, but it may be time to consider system replacement.

Issues with the contactor

The AC’s contactor switch, located inside your compressor unit, sends voltage to the condenser unit and fan so they will run. These switches can go bad over time, causing your fan to stop working properly. Contactors need to be replaced by an HVAC contractor.

Call A-1 Mechanical for AC Repair Services

If you’re having any issues with your air conditioner, including a fan that stops working, contact A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling for expert air conditioning repair. We repair all makes and models of air conditioners. Don’t let hot temperatures and high humidity be your enemy this summer. Call A-1 Mechanical today for the best AC repair service around!

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Benefits of Zoned Heating and Air Conditioning

May 29th, 2020
Mechanical Zoned

Are some areas of your home too hot, while others are too cold? Finding the right temperature can be a juggling act. Things can get even more complicated when family members have different preferences regarding the right indoor temperature.

Worry no longer – A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling has the solution that will make everyone in your family happy! A zoned heating and cooling system works by separating the rooms in your home into individual zones to provide the perfect level of heating and cooling to everyone.

The NATE-certified technicians at A-1 Mechanical are Lansing, Grands Rapids and all of central Michigan’s leaders in HVAC repair, maintenance and installation. Contact A-1 Mechanical today to learn how a zoning system can improve home comfort.

How a Zoned HVAC System Works

Imagine a normal winter’s day. It’s bitterly cold outside, and you’ve set the thermostat to 68 degrees. However, a north-facing room with inefficient windows might be 64 degrees, while a south-facing bedroom on the second floor – where heat rises – may be a balmy 72 degrees. A zoning system can fix this problem.

A zoning system divides a house into two or more distinct temperature zones and are controlled by separate thermostats. This opens up the door for multiple options when it comes to heating and cooling. You can:

  • Keep rooms that are rarely used at a lower temperature in the winter and a higher temperature in the summer compared to the rest of the house
  • Keep your bedroom warmer in the winter and your guest room cooler when it’s not being used

The options are endless. To control the various flow of conditioned air into separate zones, motorized dampers are installed in the ducts. The dampers, which are able to open and close, receive signals from the independent thermostats in regards to what temperature the room needs to be heated or cooled. When a room reaches the desired temperature, the dampers are closed. When all of the rooms in a home are at the desired temperature, your home’s furnace or air conditioning system cycles off.

Benefits of a Zoned HVAC Systems

There are so many benefits to adding a zoned HVAC system to your Grand Rapids or Lansing home. Just a few of the them include:

Increased energy efficiency

Because you’re not constantly adjusting the thermostat to keep the house at just the right temperature, you’ll save money on your monthly energy bill. Rooms that are rarely used can be left cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer months. A zoned HVAC system can increase energy savings by as much as 30 percent.

Convenience

If you enjoy all the conveniences that come with modern technology, then you’ll love your zoned HVAC system. Each thermostat comes with its own remote that can be adjusted from anywhere in the house. That’s good news if you’re watching a movie or game and don’t want to get up.

Extended service life

With a zoned system, you won’t end up using your HVAC system as often as a conventional system that runs more frequently because it’s warming or cooling the entire home at the same temperature. This limits wear and tear on the system and leads to an extended service life.

Increased comfort

Everyone in the family will be happy because they can control the temperature setting to one that fits their individual comfort level.

Contact A-1 Mechanical about Installing a Zoned HVAC System

We’ve been serving homeowners in central Michigan with superior HVAC maintenance, repair and installation services since 1983. It’s no wonder we’re the most trusted HVAC company in the Grands Rapids and Lansing areas.

If you’re interested in having a zoned system installed in a new or existing HVAC system, or just have more questions about these wonderful zoning systems, contact A-1 Mechanical today.

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How to Protect Your Outdoor AC Unit from Spring Storms

May 4th, 2020
Air Conditioning

Storms are common during the spring season, which can put your outdoor air conditioning unit at risk for damage. Don’t risk an interruption in operation and comfort as you wait for repairs. A-1 Mechanical shares how you can protect your outdoor AC unit from storms.

Protecting Your Air Conditioner from Falling Debris

Be proactive as much as possible prior to storms. Remove dead branches from trees and the ground around your property. Trim back branches that overhang the area to protect AC’s condenser unit from storms and powerful winds.

If high winds are expected, the outdoor unit can be covered with a tarp or sheet of plywood to protect its top from falling debris. Such a cover also offers protection for large hailstones. For elevated units, secure the condenser unit with hurricane straps.

To protect the air conditioner from storms and debris that blow into its sides, try building a structure around it for protection. Such a structure keeps leaves and other debris from being blown into the interior of the unit, which can cause damage, clogs and performance issues. Any structure should be built at least 24 inches away from the unit on all sides. Shrubbery with strong root systems also provides natural protection for the unit.

It’s important to only do so if the air conditioner will not be in use during the storm. Remove the cover as soon as the storm passes, as you don’t want moisture to be trapped inside the unit for too long.

Protection from Flooding

There’s no need to cover an outdoor unit just because of rain – this equipment is designed for exposure to the elements. If a flood is expected, covers may be of some benefit, but only when they are thoroughly sealed.

Anytime an air conditioning unit is exposed to flood waters, even if you used a cover, it needs to be inspected by a professional before further use. Components may have been damaged while sitting in flood waters, which could make the system dangerous to operate without repairs.

During a Storm

Once a storm rolls in, cut power to protect the outdoor AC system from electrical surges caused by close lightning strikes. Doing so also prevents damage that could occur if falling debris becomes lodged within the unit’s interior.

To avoid discomfort during a power outage – or if you turn off power to protect your air conditioning unit from storms – pre-cool your home. Prior to the storm, lower your thermostat settings several degrees. Keep window coverings, doors and windows shut to help your home hold in more of its cooling while the storm carries on.

After a Storm

Before using your air conditioner again after a storm, always inspect it for potential damage. Do not leave the system shut down for too long, as doing so may cause mold and mildew development due to trapped moisture. If you are unsure if the unit has been damaged or if it has been flooded, call your HVAC system professional for inspection before use.

Air Conditioner Repairs from A-1 Mechanical

Despite your best efforts and the tips mentioned in this blog, it’s not always possible to prevent damage. If your air conditioner has been damaged, A-1 Mechanical performs fast repairs to quickly restore your system and return cool air to your home. Contact A-1 Mechanical today to schedule service for your outdoor HVAC unit.

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Common Questions About Ductless Mini Split Systems

May 4th, 2020
Ductless Mini Split

Ductless mini split HVAC systems are becoming more popular in homes throughout Grand Rapids thanks to their versatility, efficiency and other great benefits. However, many homeowners are still reluctant to consider this option for their homes because they’re simply not familiar with them. By answering some common ductless mini split questions, we hope it’s easier to see that this system type could be a great solution for your home.

How Does a Ductless Mini Split Work?

Most of us are used to central heating and cooling systems, which is why many people ask us how ductless mini splits work. A ductless system features two main components – indoor air handlers and an outdoor heat pump or air conditioner. Systems commonly feature multiple air handlers connected to an outdoor unit through a line set.

Ductless mini splits have dedicated air handlers installed in each area of the home, which create the ability for zoned comfort. Each one is controlled individually and independently. As such, efficiency can be improved by cutting waste, and comfort accounts for everyone’s preferences and the needs of a space without affecting temperatures across the home. Basements, garages or new home additions can use a single-zone mini split system if they want just that area to receive heating and air conditioning.

What Type of Homes Use Ductless Mini Splits?

Common questions about ductless mini split concern the versatility of the system. A ductless system is extremely versatile and can go where forced air systems often can’t due to space or cost considerations because of lacking ductwork.

Ductless systems are a great solution for scenarios such as:

  • Homes with no existing ductwork
  • Homes where there is not enough space to install a new duct system
  • Providing heating and cooling in a space not connected to the central air distribution system, like a recently finished attic or basement
  • In new additions where the cost of expanding the current central system to serve the area would be cost prohibitive
  • In areas of a home where supplemental heating and air conditioning is needed
  • In garages or outbuildings

How Efficient Are Ductless Systems?

Because there are no ducts involved with these systems, energy waste can be curbed as much as 30 percent compared to an average home with ducts. This is because most duct systems allow for significant heating and cooling loss through air leaks. Plus, the systems offer great energy efficiency ratings.

Is the Indoor Unit Big?

Interior aesthetics are important to homeowners, so questions about equipment are common. While there are a number of different interior air handler units, the units do have some size, but they’re not nearly as big as, say, a furnace sitting in your living room. Interior units come in a variety of finishes and are installed high on walls, so they can blend with your interiors. Some units are even set within the ceiling, so they really don’t detract from the look of the space at all.

How Much Do Ductless Systems Cost?

The cost of a ductless system depends on many things, such as how many indoor units need to be supported. The cost to install a ductless system across an entire home typically is far more than simply upgrading the central units if a home is already equipped with central HVAC. However, their efficiency cuts operating costs, generating savings over time.

A-1 Mechanical Answers Your Ductless Mini Split Questions

If you have more ductless mini split questions, our knowledgeable team is happy to provide you with answers. Let’s chat about our ductless heating and cooling options and if this system type may be right for your Grand Rapids area home – contact us today.

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Benefits of a Spring Air Conditioning Tune Up

April 6th, 2020
Air Conditioning Tune Up

Do you remember the last time your air conditioning unit received a tune up? If you can’t recall, then your AC is likely well overdue for maintenance.

For your air conditioning system to run efficiently, avoid breakdowns and operate past its useful life expectancy, it should be inspected by a technician once per year in the spring before you turn the system on for the first time.

At A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, our NATE-certified technicians provide expert tune ups so your air conditioner unit is in tip-top shape and ready for the long summer ahead. Air conditioner inspection in the spring can go a long way in helping it last through the dog days of summer.

What Are the Benefits of a Spring AC Tune Up?

Spring is ideally the best time to have maintenance performed on your unit. However, if you didn’t schedule an inspection in the spring, it’s never too late to call your friends at A-1 Mechanical to perform the service.

The benefits of preventative AC maintenance include:

Improving Overall Performance

When professional maintenance is performed, a trained eye evaluates your unit and every component for existing malfunctions and issues that could cause poor performance. We resolve these issues early on and make necessary repairs before they become more serious and lead to expensive repairs. Once we’ve completed any repairs, your AC unit is less likely to break down over the summer months.

Increasing Energy Efficiency

Regular maintenance on your air conditioner unit improves its overall energy efficiency. A dirty air filter clogged with contaminants, for example, makes it difficult for the system to distribute air, which places it under more stress and causes potential breakdowns. This, in turn, leads to higher energy bills.

Extending Service Life

An air conditioning system typically lasts 10 to 12 years, but regularly maintained units tend to last much longer. Tuning up an air conditioner can go a long way in helping it run smoothly for years to come.

Protecting Your Warranty

Many manufacturers require annual maintenance on the system. If you fail to do so, the manufacturer can void your warranty, and you’d be on the hook for any expensive repairs or replacement.

What’s Included in an Air Conditioner Tune Up?

An HVAC technician performs several inspections on your AC unit. According to the pros at A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling and Energy.gov, the following tasks are performed during a routine tune up:

  • Check belts for wear
  • Lubricate motors and check all moving parts
  • Test for refrigerant leaks and check the right amount is being used
  • Seal ductwork leaks in central systems, if necessary
  • Check the thermostat’s accuracy
  • Measure the airflow through the evaporator coil
  • Clean and tighten all electrical connections and inspect electrical terminals
  • Replace the furnace air filter
  • Recommend any needed repairs
  • Clean the condenser coils

Maintenance Agreements for Air Conditioner Tune Ups

A-1 Mechanical’s preventive maintenance plans for air conditioners cover your system’s annual tune up to preserve efficiency and performance. You’ll also earn benefits that will save you money when it’s time to replace or repair the system. A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling offers two levels of air conditioning maintenance plans. Commercial air conditioning maintenance plans are also available. Contact us now to learn more.

Trust the Pros at A-1 Mechanical for All Your AC Needs

At A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, we’ve served the greater Lansing, Michigan, community since 1983 and started servicing the Grand Rapids area market in 2006. More recently, we entered the Wyoming, Michigan market. Whether you’re in need of an AC tune up, repair or system replacement, you can trust the pros at A-1 Mechanical to get the job done right the first time. Contact A-1 Mechanical today!

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What Are the Benefits of an Air Purifier?

April 6th, 2020
Air Purifier

Most people love springtime because of warmer weather, increased daylight, blooming flowers and animal life. But for millions of Americans, spring also triggers the start of dreadful allergy season.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to escape these pesky allergens even from the comforts of your home. Allergens are just one of many contaminants that can wreak havoc on your home’s air quality – and your family’s health.

One of the best methods of improving your home’s air quality is through a whole house air cleaner. If you’re interested in eliminating allergens, pollutants and contaminants in your home for good, give the experts at A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling a call today to discuss indoor air quality solutions.

What Is a Whole Home Air Cleaner?

Whole house air purifiers work to eliminate contaminants before they get into the ductwork and into living areas. Many homeowners who suffer from asthma, allergies or other respiratory issues can benefit from having one. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, younger people, older adults and people with cardiovascular or respiratory disease spend more time indoors and could see health improvements from having an air purifier installed.

Air purifiers are sold as either stand-up units that can service a room or two, or larger, whole house units that can be affixed right into the HVAC system, mounted between the air handler and the return ductwork. These types of purifiers can service an entire home.

Common Pollutants Found in a Home

Whole home air purifiers improve indoor air quality by removing up to 99 percent of allergens and contaminants, including:

  • Pollen
  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Dust Mites
  • Pet dander
  • Mold spores
  • Tobacco smoke
  • Combustion byproducts, such as carbon monoxide
  • Lead
  • Asbestos

Benefits of a Whole Home Air Cleaner

Lansing and Grand Rapids area homes with allergy and asthma sufferers greatly benefit from the installation of whole home air purifiers. These systems use superior air filters to remove airborne contaminants as air flows through your HVAC system.

According to the EPA, it’s estimated that people spend about 90% of the time indoors, where air quality can be two to five worse than that outdoors.

Some of the benefits of a whole home air cleaner include:

Longer-Lasting HVAC System

Just like a typical furnace air filter, a whole home air purifier helps your HVAC system run more efficiently – thus extending its lifespan – by filtering out contaminants that cause it to work harder. Increased stress on the system leads to breakdowns and need for repairs.

Healthier Air

Obviously, the biggest benefit of an air purifier is cleaner, healthier air. Reducing germs, allergens and dust in your home will reduce health issues, including allergies and respiratory illness.

Contact A-1 Mechanical for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling is your trusted source for indoor air quality. A-1 Mechanical’s NATE-certified technicians pair you with the right whole home air purifier to address your specific concerns.

We have solutions for all of your indoor air quality needs, whether it be humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air cleaners or zoned systems to eliminate hot and cold spots around your home. For more information about our air purification solutions, please contact us today.

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Coronavirus: How A-1 Mechanical Continues to Serve You

March 24th, 2020

We, at A-1 Mechanical, pride ourselves on being part of the communities we serve. Our services are critical and to keep you safe we have implemented a ZERO CONTACT service call.

Community Involvement

In light of COVID-19, we would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the policies and procedures that A-1 Mechanical has in place to protect the health and safety of you, our customer, and our team.

Our policies and procedures:

  • We have added sanitizing stations in our trucks.
  • We have a safety kit for tech that include face masks, rubber gloves, shoe covers.
  • We have limited access to our facility to A-1 Mechanical personnel only.
  • We have discontinued all large gathering events for the next 30 days.

We encourage our team members, customers, and community to:

  • Dry hands with paper towels instead of cloth towels.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Stay home if sick or showing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing with disposable tissues and then wash hands.
  • Closely monitor and adapt recommendations and guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Please know the wellness and safety of our team and customers continues to be our top priority. If you do have a service-related emergency, we encourage you to continue choosing A-1 Mechanical for your Heating and Air Conditioning needs. It is possible that this will impact our business in other unforeseen ways and we commit to doing our best to minimize the impact. We appreciate your loyalty and trust as a valued customer. We’re here to keep you comfortable.

Sincerely,
A-1 Mechanical

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Why Is My Heat Pump Not Heating?

February 20th, 2020
Heat Pump

Is your heat pump not blowing hot air? This frustrating problem is common with heat pump owners, but it doesn’t always mean your system is damaged. Check out these common reasons that heat pumps may not produce hot air constantly and when to consult with a professional at A-1 Mechanical.

Common Reasons For Heat Pump Not Blowing Hot Air

If you notice that the heat coming out of your vents isn’t as warm as you would like it to be, go through this list before you worry. However, remember, any time you find your heat pump not blowing hot air, call a Lansing, MI heating repair contractor to have them troubleshoot the issue for you.

Air May Be Warm, But Not Feel Like It

When your heat pump produces warm air, the air blowing out of your vents will be somewhere in the 85 to 92°F range. However, this temperature pales in comparison with the air emanating from a gas furnace, which is typically between 130 to 140°F. If you are new to a heat pump system, keep in mind that the air coming from your vents will not feel as warm as the air stemming from a gas furnace, but heat pumps will warm your home to the desired temperature — if you give it time.

Heat Pump System Could Be In “Defrost” Mode

When the weather outdoors drops, condensation and frost accumulate on the outdoor components of your heat pump. To keep your system operational, it triggers a “defrost mode,” which runs every 30, 60 or 90 minutes, depending on the model of heat pump you have. When defrost mode runs, the air coming from your vents will feel cool. However, when defrost mode ends, the system will return to providing warm air.

Your Heat Pump Could Have A Refrigerant Leak

Your heat pump uses refrigerant to transfer any warmth from the air outside into your home. Unfortunately, if there is a leak in your line somewhere, it could inhibit your heat pump’s ability to provide this service, creating cold air from your vents.

Frozen Outdoor Components on Your Heat Pump

Occasionally, refrigerant leaks cause outdoor components to freeze, even after several defrost cycles. If this is the case, your heat pump system needs to be professionally addressed. You may see frost or ice buildup on your outdoor heat pump unit that does not seem to melt. The system is unable to work and blow hot air in this case.

Damaged Reversing Valve

Heat pumps are special because they heat your home during the winter and provide air conditioning to your home during summer. This process changes with the help of a reversing valve, which switches the direction of the refrigerant. However, if your reversing valve is damaged, your system may be stuck in air conditioning mode.

When Should You Call For A Heat Pump Repair?

It’s always a good idea to keep your fingers on the pulse of your HVAC system. Here at A-1 Mechanical, we recommend calling whenever you see there is an ongoing problem, or if there are new changes to your heat pump system that are creating heating and cooling problems.

Problems? A-1 Mechanical is Here to Help

Our team has been helping residents throughout the greater Lansing and Grand Rapids area since 1983s, and we are committed to taking care of the job the right way the first time. We offer residential and commercial heating and cooling service, helping people to stay safe and comfortable. For heat pump repair, schedule heating service today.

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What’s the Best Thermostat Setting for Winter?

February 20th, 2020
Thermostat

During the cold winter months, many of us wonder if the home is too cool or overly warm, especially if focused on saving money on heating. When you find yourself wondering what’s the best thermostat setting for the winter, understand the ideal settings and know when to break the rules. This information is essential to maximize your home comfort and energy savings.

What Temperature to Set My Thermostat in Winter?

During the winter, the recommended room temperature is 68°F when you are awake and at home. While this setting seems low at first, your body acclimates to this lower temperature over time, and it does feel comfortable.

Many people choose to program their Grand Rapids thermostats for the ideal temperature of 68°F when they are home during the day, and then move the settings up on the weekends when they will be relaxing. Others choose to find more warmth elsewhere, such as an extra sweater when doing chores around the house or a thicker bedspread for the winter months.

Best Times to Set Back the Thermostat

A properly set thermostat certainly helps reduce your home heating expenses. When you move those settings down even lower, savings dramatically increase. The Department of Energy reports that you save up to 10% a year on energy when you set your thermostat down no more than 8°F for eight hours a day. Here are a few great times you can save with an energy-efficient temperature setting for winter:

Sleep

Consider lowering your thermostat at night. In addition to a reduction in heating costs, set your thermostat as low as 60°F for ideal sleep, as it helps you to get some much needed rest. If you find this setback to be a little chilly, add an extra blanket to your bed or use a thicker comforter and see if you are comfortable this way before you increase the temperature.

Exercise

When you exercise, you become warmer naturally, which means you are able to turn down the heat. If you have a long day of chores planned, turn down your thermostat setting for winter savings and keep your body comfortable while you labor through the day.

Vacation

While it’s not wise to turn your heat completely off during much of the winter season, lowering the interior temperature to 55°F while you are away will save energy for this period. Use your programmable thermostat’s hold or vacation feature to temporarily override temperature schedules to use the best thermostat setting for winter vacations. Always program low settings on second homes or vacation properties.

How To Keep Cold Air Out

Prevent low indoor temperatures when you take measures to keep the cold air out of your home. Seal any cracks or holes around the exterior of your home, including spots around cables and air vents. Apply weather stripping on doors, and check windows for leaks. Keep doors closed as much as possible and encourage family members and guests to either visit in the entryway with the door closed or on the porch with the door closed.

Let A-1 Mechanical Answer Your Thermostat Setting Questions

Setting your thermostat for winter does not have to be tricky – we are here to help. At A-1 Mechanical, we want you to know that we are always here to assist you, whether you need a new thermostat or an entirely new furnace. Contact us today to learn more about thermostat upgrades for your home.

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