Do I Have Animals in My HVAC System?

November 26th, 2019
HVAC System

When outdoor temperatures start to drop in the fall, Grand Rapids area homeowners sometimes face a unique issue: animals in HVAC system equipment. Animals and pests that infiltrate your heating and cooling systems have the potential to cause great damage, so you want to take measures that keep them out. A-1 Mechanical shares how to spot animals in HVAC system equipment and how to prevent this pest problem.

Why Animals Enter HVAC Systems

It’s no secret that fall is chilly in our area – the animals outside feel this temperature change, too! When the days become shorter and colder, they begin to look for shelter and warmth. Unfortunately for homeowners, HVAC systems are often an attractive refuge for Michigan critters such as:

  • Mice
  • Rats
  • Squirrels
  • Chipmunks
  • Cats
  • Opossums
  • Raccoons

Animals in HVAC system equipment get inside either by causing damage to create an entrance, or they enter through existing openings. They also cause significant damage while inside your system components, chewing wires, leaving droppings, and more. Animal damage often requires significant furnace repairs. With pests inside your heating and cooling system, especially if they are able to enter the duct system, you are likely to experience foul odors inside the home and may be exposed to diseases carried by these animals.

After an animal infestation in your HVAC system, you want to have your ducts and other equipment cleaned to remove droppings and debris left behind. Have your HVAC system thoroughly inspected by a professional to identify component damage and ensure repairs are made to avoid further problems with your heating and cooling equipment.

How to Tell if You Have Animals in HVAC System Equipment

Fortunately for Grand Rapids homeowners, animals in HVAC system equipment give off noticeable signs. If you have animals in your heating and cooling system, you are likely to notice:

  • Foul odors from the animal’s nest, droppings, or even a dead animal.
  • Noises as the animals move around in your system, coming from ceilings, walls, and below the floor where your ductwork runs.
  • Holes that allow entry – flexible ductwork is especially prone to chewing and clawing from animals, but pests also make their way into your system through holes along the foundation of your home.


Prevent Animals from Entering Your HVAC System

The best way to prevent an issue with animals in HVAC system equipment is to take action before they get in. This fall, take the following steps to prevent a cold weather animal infestation:

  • Look around your home for points of entry. If you identify holes along your foundation, seal them up.
  • Examine visible ducts in areas like your crawl space, attic, and basement. If there are any gaps, holes, or disconnected sections, an animal is able to enter. Repair these duct issues right away.
  • Check your dryer exhaust vent. While animals won’t necessarily enter into your HVAC system this way, it’s another common point that animals use to enter homes. Make sure your exhaust vent cover is secured.


HVAC Help from A-1 Mechanical

If you experience animals in your HVAC system this fall season, call A-1 Mechanical for help. Our licensed HVAC technicians repair the damage caused by the infestation and help prevent further animal problems at your home. Contact us today to schedule service.

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Why You Should Schedule Furnace Maintenance (6 Reasons)

October 28th, 2019
Furnace Maintenance

If you haven’t checked “schedule furnace maintenance” off your household to-do list yet, now is the time to do so!

When you skip this important annual service, you miss the many important benefits it provides.

How Furnace Maintenance Benefits You

Need a reason to schedule furnace maintenance? A-1 Mechanical gives you six! In this blog, we’ll cover the benefits of preventive furnace maintenance, what’s included in a furnace tune up, and why neglecting furnace service negatively affects your health, as well as your wallet!

1. Better Energy Efficiency Lowers Heating Bills

Wear and tear, loose connections and wiring, worn belts, dirt and dust buildup, dirty furnace filters – these issues and more occur over the normal course of furnace use. All diminish a furnace’s energy efficiency. They force the furnace to expend more energy to do its normal job, which costs you extra money.

During furnace maintenance, your HVAC technician performs a thorough tune up to address these common system issues. We oil bearings, tighten belts and connections, clean compartments and components, change furnace filters, and more. These tasks eliminate the obstacles that force a furnace to draw excess energy. A furnace tune up maximizes the system’s energy efficiency, so the furnace uses less energy. Less energy means lower heating bills.

2. Prevent Costly Furnace Repairs with Regular HVAC Maintenance

Furnace repairs can be pricey, but in many cases, repairs are much less expensive if the issue is caught and corrected early. Why? Well, not all problems cause a furnace to stop working – many times, homeowners are unaware one exists. So, they continue to operate the furnace with a minor malfunction, which develops into a more extensive one or even causes a breakdown.

During a maintenance tune up, technicians inspect the entire system and are able to catch and correct minor issues right away. This helps prevent the development of serious damage and problems that are more expensive to repair.

As an added benefit, catching small issues early on can mean the difference between steady, warm comfort all winter long or a sudden breakdown that leaves you in the cold.

3. A Maintained Furnace Enjoys a Longer Service Life

Well-maintained furnaces last longer! Why? Because tune ups regularly address and remedy issues from wear and tear before they progress into system damage. Schedule a furnace tune up each year to help add more years of service life.

In addition, furnace replacement is a pricey project – don’t let your furnace give out early. Furnace tune ups help keep money in your pocket and reduce the risk of unnecessary premature heating system replacement costs.

Murphy’s Law suggests your furnace will break down on the coldest day of the year. We’ve been on many urgent heating repair service calls to know this comes true for a lot of homeowners. Avoid this “bad luck” by preparing now with preventive furnace maintenance.

Here’s a review from Kim W. –

“I called just a few days ago to schedule a time for my furnace check up. I was able to get an appointment very quickly and in a time that worked best for me. The technician was on time and very nice. After about 30 minutes, he was done and said our furnace was in great condition, even for almost 16 years old. A-1 Mechanical is the only company we have ever used for our furnace needs. We are very happy with their service.”

4. Book Furnace Maintenance to Gain Better Performance & Greater Comfort

A maintenance tune up also generates better performance from your heating system. Reducing your risk of a breakdown helps ensure consistent heating system performance over the fall, winter, and early spring.

Furnace maintenance corrects airflow and other performance issues to deliver adequate warmth across the entire home and proper heating cycles, and reduces temperature fluctuations.

5. Breathe Easier with Better Indoor Air Quality

During your furnace maintenance tune up, your technician cleans out furnace compartments and cleans off components, removing dirt, dust, and debris from the system’s interior. Removing these particles prevents them from re-entering your living areas. More airborne particulates diminish the air quality you breathe inside.

Be sure to change your furnace filter as needed. This reduces the number of allergens and other triggers for allergy and asthma symptoms. Your HVAC technician changes the filter if it needs it and if one’s provided.

Some people assume a new filter comes with the tune up but that’s not always true. Remember, a dirty furnace filter can’t provide good airflow to the HVAC system. Obstructed airflow causes your equipment to work harder and strains the system. This decreases efficiency, which increases your heating bills.

Stress on your furnace also increases the likelihood of cracks in the heat exchanger or other major damage requiring repairs or even replacement.

If you schedule a tune up, your HVAC technician changes the furnace filter if provided and if necessary. At A-1 Mechanical, for example, if you request a new furnace filter when you schedule your tune up, we just add it to your total for your convenience. Easy!

6. Schedule Furnace Maintenance to Improve Safety in Your Home

Part of the process a furnace uses to create heat is combustion. When the furnace combusts natural gas, it naturally produces byproducts like carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, colorless gas. When a furnace properly operates, it safely vents gases like CO out of your home.

Malfunctions, however, make it possible for carbon monoxide to leak into your home and accumulate. Exposure to high levels of CO sicken humans and animals and in severe cases, is lethal.

In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 20,000 people visit the emergency room with symptoms each year while more than 400 die.

In Lansing homes with natural gas furnaces and gas-fueled water heaters, carbon monoxide exposure is a serious concern. Well-maintained heating systems reduce the likelihood of a potentially deadly carbon monoxide leak in your home. One way to protect your family is to book a professional tune up each year.

Our technicians inspect critical components, including the heat exchanger, for cracks and other damage. One way CO leaks is due to cracks in the heat exchanger. Cracks occur over time as well as from overuse and equipment stress.

HVAC contractors also inspect venting systems for blockages or leaks leading to a buildup of carbon monoxide in your home. HVAC techs correct any issues found or quickly bring repair or replacement needs to your attention to keep your family safe.

Bonus Tip! Preventive Maintenance Protects Warranties

Unfortunately, many homeowners discover their furnace warranty no longer applies. Why? In many cases, equipment neglect or installation by an unqualified person voids manufacturer warranties. Imagine buying a new car and never changing the oil.

Your HVAC system is probably the most expensive appliance in your home. Don’t let a neighbor’s cousin install it or put off service to save a buck. It could cost you a lot more than you think you saved if there’s a problem and the warranty is rejected. To stay compliant, always use a professionally NATE-certified HVAC contractor to install, repair and service your furnace.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance with A-1 Mechanical Today!

Give your furnace the care it needs to carry your household through another blustery Michigan winter with ease. Don’t forget, we repair and service heating equipment from all major manufacturers. Our friendly technicians arrive with fully-stocked trucks so most issues are resolved within a single visit.

Emergency service is available without overtime charges between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. For superior HVAC repairs in greater Grand Rapids and Lansing, turn to A-1 Mechanical.

Call 517-348-0302 or click to contact A-1 Mechanical to schedule furnace maintenance today!

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Why Is My Heating Bill So High?

October 28th, 2019
Heating

“Why is my heating bill so high?” is a question we hear from many Lansing and Grand Rapids area homeowners every fall and winter. An unexpected heating bill hundreds of dollars over budget is a surprise no one wants. Learn what drives your heating bill up and what to do to save energy and money this heating season.

Why Is My Heating Bill So High?

The most common causes that lead to unexpectedly high heating bills are:

  • Colder outdoor temperatures than what’s normal for the area
  • Lack of heating system maintenance
  • Air leaks in the home
  • Poor insulation
  • Dirty furnace filters


Top Ways to Lower Heating Bills

These energy-saving strategies help homeowners improve home energy efficiency to lower heating bills:

  • Schedule a heating system preventive maintenance tune up
  • Seal ducts and air leaks throughout the home
  • Use efficient thermostat settings
  • Regularly check and replace furnace filters

Preventive Maintenance Tune Ups Increase Efficiency & Lower Heating Bills

Ideally in the fall, before the busy “heating breakdown season,” schedule a preventive maintenance tune up for your Lansing or Grand Rapids heating system. Gas furnaces, electric furnaces, heat pumps – no matter your heating system type, a maintenance tune up helps the system function more efficiently throughout the season.

Poorly maintained heating equipment consumes excess energy as it heats your home. Wear and tear, damaged and broken components, and airflow blockages make the system work harder to heat and circulate indoor air.

NATE-certified HVAC technicians perform maintenance tune ups and inspect, service, and test all aspects of the heating system. This ensures it performs at peak efficiency over the heating season ahead.

Here’s a review from an HVAC service customer, Amanda M. –

“Such a great experience! Everyone we worked with, from the initial call, to the service visit was knowledgeable, helpful, and so nice. It’s not often I write reviews, but this service was above and beyond!”

Duct Sealing & Air Leak Sealing Reduce Heating Load

The average Lansing and Grand Rapids area home loses 20 to 30 percent of its heated air through duct leaks. Damage, gaps, loose fittings, and disconnected sections allow heated air to escape before it reaches your rooms while letting chilly air into the ducts.

Because of this loss, the heating system compensates by expending more energy to replace heat lost. This extra heat production uses 20 to 30 percent more energy. Duct repair eliminates these costly leaks to significantly lower your heating bills.

Heated air is also able to escape through other areas of the home, such as:

  • Windows and doors that don’t shut tightly
  • Gaps and cracks around window frames and door jambs
  • Vent, piping, or wiring holes through exterior walls
  • Uninsulated or under-insulated attics, basements, and crawl spaces


To reduce heat loss, air leak sealing is a must. Replace damaged insulation and raise insulation levels throughout the home. Add weatherstripping to all exterior doorways. Seal windows and door frames both indoors and out. Seal around the exterior wall penetrations outdoors as well as on the interior of the wall.

Energy Efficiency Thermostat Settings Save on Electric & Gas Bills

When it’s chilly outside, many homeowners continue to raise the temperature on their thermostats to keep the home warm. Every degree you go up adds cost to your heating bill. Instead, use energy-conscious thermostat settings to maximize efficiency.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a thermostat setting of 68 degrees when the home is occupied during the daytime. As you sleep or when the home is empty, lower the setting to conserve energy.

Eight-hour temperature setbacks of four to six degrees generate up to 10 percent savings on heating bills! Easily implement energy efficient temperature settings when you trade your old manual thermostat for a programmable or smart thermostat!

Curious about modern thermostats? Call us and we’ll send a Comfort Consultant to your home. He or she will evaluate your current HVAC system, ask you about your energy goals and make a thermostat recommendation.

We’ve met many homeowners who bought a smart thermostat at a big box store and found it doesn’t work well with their existing system. For example, do you have a single-speed or variable-speed system? It makes a difference in which smart thermostat is best for your home.

Change Furnace Filters and Lower Heating Bills

Dirty furnace filters block the flow of air through your heating system. This forces the blower motor to expend more energy to pull air through the system and push heated air into your living areas.

Avoid this problem when you regularly replace your furnace filter. How often depends on the type of filter, heating usage, and other factors specific to your home. Most people get by with furnace filter changes every two to three months.

Throughout heating season, check your filter monthly to determine if a change is needed early. During periods of heavy system use, this is often the case. If you have pets, smoke, are sensitive to pollen or other allergy and asthma triggers, change it monthly or more frequently.

A-1 Mechanical Solves the “Why Is My Heating Bill So High?” Question

If your heating bills are shockingly high this season, take action to start saving right away!

Call 517-348-0302 for A-1 Mechanical to identify causes behind high heating bills in your heating system and solutions to bring your bills back down.

Don’t forget about traditional tips either! For example, let the sunshine in your south and east-facing windows then trap the warmth inside with thermal-insulated curtains. Switch your ceiling fan to slowly rotate clockwise for winter. This should push the warmer air at the ceiling level back down along the walls to floor-level.

Soon, you’ll enjoy cheaper utility bills over the winter. For heating repairs, service, and new furnace installation contact A-1 Mechanical today.

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Is My AC Making My Allergies Worse?

August 28th, 2019
Air Conditioning

What is it that makes some wonder “is my AC making my allergies worse” when we cool our Michigan homes? As Michiganders, we try to make the most of the summer weather, so it’s tough when your home is not the respite from the heat you need.

Why is that? Could you be allergic to your air conditioning? If you’re one of the growing number of Americans with asthma, do you feel your AC helps or hurts?

In this blog, we’ll cover why some Lansing and Grand Rapids residents feel allergies flare when the AC comes on, common indoor allergens and steps to reduce allergy symptoms when the air conditioning runs.

WHY IT FEELS LIKE AC TRIGGERS ALLERGIES

  • Common “Air Conditioning” Allergy Symptoms
  • Watery eyes
  • Fever
  • Dizziness
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Tired/fatigue
  • Shortness of breath

What many people experience isn’t an allergy to air conditioning, it’s actually a response to the airborne pollutants in their homes.

Poor Air Quality

As your HVAC system pulls air into the ductwork, it brings all sorts of airborne pollutants with them. Common indoor particulates include:

  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Pollen
  • Virus/Bacteria
  • Mold/Mildew spores
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Your HVAC’s system’s air filter captures many of these but not all. If the filter is insufficient or already clogged, the contaminants circulate back into your rooms. Allergens spread and settle on surfaces, such as pillows and bedding. Poor air quality often affects babies, children, the elderly and anyone with a weakened immune system the most.

Too Much Humidity

For anyone with respiratory or certain cardiac conditions, high humidity easily triggers difficulty breathing or full-blown asthma attacks. High humidity levels also encourage dust mite, mold and mildew growth. These three pollutants are common allergens and asthma triggers.

How is air conditioning related to humidity?

Part of the air conditioning process is removing excess moisture from the air. Humidity, or water content in the air, makes you feel warmer, so removing the excess moisture helps you feel cooler. Less moisture in the air allows your perspiration to evaporate more easily.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO REDUCE ALLERGY AND ASTHMA TRIGGERS FROM AIR CONDITIONING USE AT HOME

  1. Check and change your air filter regularly
  2. Follow regular preventive maintenance for your air conditioner
  3. Improve the filtration of airborne contaminants within your system
  4. Encourage healthy home practices

Air Filter Maintenance

We encourage homeowners to check air filters each month. A handy way to remember? When the gas or electric bill arrives, check your air filter the same day. Change it as necessary. For most Michigan homes, every two to three months is sufficient.

If, however, members of your household have pets, smoke or have compromised immune systems, a monthly change might be appropriate. A clean air filter also provides the best airflow to your air conditioner, furnace or heat pump.

Dirty filters create HVAC problems, like excess wear and tear, higher utility bills and greater risk or repairs or breakdowns.

Preventive Maintenance for Your HVAC System

When a qualified HVAC technician performs a tune up, he or she inspects the system and components. As part of the tune up, the tech cleans components and notes any circumstances of concern.

These might include leaky ductwork or evidence of rodents, insects or other pests. Leaks in the ductwork allow allergens to sneak inside the ducts and your conditioned air. Rodents leave nesting material, droppings and even carcasses, which shed airborne particulates into your home.

Therefore, in addition to a more efficient air conditioner, furnace or heat pump, preventive maintenance addresses air quality in your home.

Install Air Quality Products Within the HVAC System

If you find you need greater filtration or reduction of airborne allergy and asthma triggers, install air quality equipment. There’s a variety of options available including media air cleaners, air purifiers, dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

When installed within the HVAC system itself, the air quality equipment filters the air throughout the whole house. Portable units are usually insufficient and require more maintenance.

Air Cleaners
Some examples include the Carrier ® Infinity ® Air Purifier – DGAPA and the Carrier Comfort™ EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter – EZXCAB.

Carrier ® Infinity ® Air Purifier – DGAPA
With whole house coverage, this air purifier uses “Captures & Kills™” technology to trap up to 95 percent of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns. Based on third-party testing, it even shows a greater than 99 percent kill rate for common cold surrogate Streptococcus pyogenes and human influenza.

Air Purifier

Ever feel like your family passes the same cold germ or flu bug around for weeks? It could be in your home’s air, continually re-infecting you. It also offers flexible installation in upflow, downflow or horizontal flow furnaces.

Using easy to replace, long-lasting MERV 15 filters, Carrier offers a 10-year parts limited warranty.

Carrier Comfort EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter – EZXCAB

Another option uses the deep-pleated style MERV 10 filter to promote airflow while it removes up to 65 percent of particulates as small as 1.0 micron.

Air Filter

The high-dust holding capacity allows for longer periods between easy to replace filter changes. For even more filtration, MERV 13 filters are available.

Ultraviolet Air Purifier Light
A simple modification to your HVAC system, an ultraviolet air purifier light neutralizes airborne pollutants as they pass through. These UV lamps kill contaminants like mold and bacteria on the coil before they reenter your home.

Dehumidifiers
You might be familiar with portable humidifiers sold at the pharmacy or dehumidifiers sold at big box stores. Unfortunately, these temporary solutions cannot control the amount of moisture in your whole home.

If you experience asthma attacks or allergy symptoms from excess humidity, consider a whole house dehumidifier. Ideal indoor humidity is contained between 30 and 50 percent. A dehumidifier controls the amount of moisture in the air and helps relieve the dehumidification job from your air conditioner.

Humidifiers
In the fall and winter, you may experience dry air. Common complaints of dry air include stale air, dry nasal passages, dry skin, static electricity and an increase in nosebleeds or viral and bacterial illnesses.

A whole house humidifier adds the correct amount of moisture to the air to decrease these symptoms and increase your comfort. Plus, when there’s the right amount of moisture in the air, you can set the heating system at a lower temperature.

Healthy Air Quality Habits to Avoid Feeling My AC is Making My Allergies Worse

Keep outdoors out
If pollen is a problem for you, leave your shoes at the door. There’s a lot of allergens tracked indoors on our shoes so keep them contained. Likewise, keep the windows and doors shut, especially during high pollen times.

If you’ve spent time outdoors, be sure to shower and wash your hair before bed. If pollen particulates are in your hair you don’t want to transfer them to your pillow and rub your face in them all night.

Pets and Grooming
Keep pets clean – stepping up their bath frequency if necessary. People can develop allergies at any point during their lifetime, including pet dander or saliva. If this isn’t enough, you might consider allergy shots.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
If you’re unfamiliar, VOCs come from chemicals off-gassing in your home. Unfortunately, they’re everywhere, from craft and cleaning supplies to the adhesives used in carpeting to the foam in furniture cushions or mattresses.

Most people are familiar with the “new paint smell.” You’re smelling the paint off-gassing. Strong odors like this easily trigger allergies or asthma symptoms. It’s easy to assume “why is my AC making my allergies worse” in cases like this. Good news – low or zero VOC options are readily available and are now more price-competitive.

Switch to more eco-friendly cleaning supplies and consider the “green” component of furnishing and finish purchases. Organic options are available and use less toxic glues and materials.

BREATHE EASIER WHEN YOU CALL A-1 MECHANICAL

If the high indoor humidity is too uncomfortable or compromising the health of a family member, call our team in Lansing or Grand Rapids for help. We don’t want you to worry if your air conditioning is making your allergies worse – we want to relieve your air quality concerns.

We’re proud to offer a range of heating and cooling services to our communities including air conditioner installation and AC service and repair.

Check our offers page – we frequently offer specials on indoor air quality products designed to work with your central heating and air. To request a free estimate on new HVAC equipment or to book AC repair or service, call A-1 Mechanical at 517-348-0302.

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Why Is My AC Not Cooling? (Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Tips)

August 14th, 2019
Air Conditioning

In the dog days of summer, it’s frustrating when you must ask, “why is my AC not cooling?” In this blog we’ll review some common causes, DIY fixes and when to call a pro.

There are several reasons a central air system stops cooling effectively, so we’ll begin with steps you can take before you call for AC repair from a professional HVAC contractor.

AC DIY TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

  1. Check the thermostat
  2. Clear debris from the AC compressor outside
  3. Check the air filter
  4. Verify vents and returns inside are unblocked and open
  5. See if the circuit breaker tripped

IF AC BLOWS WARM AIR OR WON’T TURN ON; CHECK THE THERMOSTAT

In some cases, an air conditioner turns on, but only blows warm or lukewarm air. Why is the AC not cooling? It could be because the thermostat is incorrectly installed or on the wrong setting.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Verify the thermostat is set on “COOL.” Frequently, the lever or button is accidentally bumped by someone or even a vigorous duster! Plus, it’s easy, during spring and fall when our weather yo-yos a bit, to reset the thermostat after a temperature swing.

Also, check the fan setting. If the fan is set to “ON” instead of “AUTO” it runs 24 hours a day. In other words, the fan runs even when the air conditioner isn’t cooling.

In some cases, the thermostat is installed in a poor location, which impacts its ability to draw a true, ambient average temperature. Thermostats should be in interior rooms, away from windows, or in a hallway. Make sure there’s nothing nearby that could give off additional heat or even cooling, to confuse its temperature sensors.

Conclusion: Set thermostat on “COOL,” and the fan to “AUTO.”


IF AC STRUGGLES, HAS WEAK AIR OUTPUT; CHECK THE AC COMPRESSOR OUTSIDE

The AC compressor unit outside pumps the hot air out of your house when the air conditioner cools your house. If you use a heat pump, the compressor runs all year because a heat pump performs like an air conditioner in the summer but reverses the process in the winter.

In that case, the heat pump draws warm air from outdoors through the compressor and into the air handler where it’s distributed through the ductwork? How is that possible in colder states?

Believe it or not, heat pump technology continues to advance and keep many northern homes comfortable in every season. For example, during extreme temperatures, heat pumps draw on an auxiliary heat source, called electric heat strips. Air passes over the strips, just like a heat exchanger in a furnace, and absorbs the heat.

Regardless, heat pumps use the AC compressor unit all year. Therefore, it needs optimal airflow.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Walk around the outdoor AC compressor unit. Clear away dirt, debris, fallen leaves and anything that’s collected around it. Too much vegetation or dirt “chokes” the AC compressor. It needs to “breathe” so make sure it’s clean.

  • Locate the power switch; it’s usually inside a metal box near the AC compressor unit. Turn it off.
  • Using a hose, gently spray away pollen, dirt and anything cluttering up the AC compressor fins and the base. Do not use a power washer. That is way too much force.
  • Remove flowers, plants, or shrubs so that the AC compressor has a buffer zone of two to three feet.
  • Make a habit of walking around the AC unit after storms to remove fallen leaves and twigs. It’s easy for twigs, for example, to end up inside the AC unit and cause problems with the fan blades.
  • Trim any nearby branches if they’re leafy, thick or look like they’re dying. All it takes is a good storm and a heavy branch could really damage your AC compressor.
  • When finished, let it dry as much as possible before switching it on again.

Conclusion: Clear away yard clutter and clean the outdoor unit.

Image credit: Invertedaircon.com.au

POOR AIRFLOW, AC SHUTS OFF EARLY OR AIR CONDITIONER FAILS TO FULLY COOL HOUSE; CHECK THE AIR FILTER

Similar to the AC compressor, your indoor components depend on good airflow. A clogged filter prevents air from easily passing through. The HVAC system strains to force air through the dirty filter. This puts excess wear and tear on your equipment, circulates contaminants and creates a lot of problems, including frozen evaporator coils.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

We recommend you check the filter in your HVAC system every month. Use the arrival of a gas or electric bill as a reminder. Most homes find a filter change every two to three months is sufficient. If your household includes smokers, pets or members sensitive to high pollen and other asthma and allergy triggers, change it more often.

Conclusion: Check your air filter and change it as needed.

Left: Dirty filter, Right, New filter. Image credit: Pinterest

AC NOT COOLING, HOT OR COLD SPOTS IN THE HOUSE; CHECK AIR VENTS

It’s common for furniture, drapes or temporary items like toys, to block air vents in the house. Again, obstructions to airflow cause your HVAC system to work harder, increasing the likelihood of an AC repair.

It’s common to have blower motor issues, frozen evaporator coils or water leaking from your air conditioner due to poor airflow. Return vents are usually larger squares or rectangles and draw air into the ducts.

They are sometimes high on the wall, but sometimes below knee-level. Supply vents are the smaller rectangle vents on the floor or up high on the ceiling.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Walk around the house and check all the return and supply vents. Move anything blocking airflow and make sure they’re open. Sometimes homeowners think closing vents in rarely used rooms saves money. It actually disturbs the air pressure in the home and creates more problems.

Conclusion: Keep air vents unblocked and open.


AC NOT COOLING, WON’T COME ON OR SHUTS DOWN QUICKLY; CHECK CIRCUIT BREAKER BOX

Did you know the most power surges come from within your own home? Sure, lightning and external power grid issues occasionally blast power into your home, but the majority of the time, it’s your own appliances. Large appliances, like air conditioners, push a power surge through the system when they start up. If your air conditioner stops abruptly, it could be an electrical problem.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Find the main electrical panel for your house and look for circuit breakers in the OFF position. If you’re lucky enough to have clearly-labeled circuit breakers, look for “AC” or “Air Conditioner.” If it’s tripped, push the breaker into the “ON” position and see what happens.

Conclusion: It’s possible a one-time event tripped the circuit breaker. If, however, the breaker immediately trips again when you try to run the AC, turn off the air conditioner and call a professional. It’s likely you have an electrical issue.


COMMON AC NOT COOLING ISSUES FOR PROS

If the DIY AC troubleshooting tips haven’t resolved your issues, it’s best if you call professionals for help. Common air conditioner problems causing your AC to not cool your home include:

  • Refrigerant problems. It could be a leak or low charge. Regardless, refrigerant is a toxic chemical and you don’t want to mess with it. Call an HVAC technician.
  • Fan motor issues. If the fan motor is broken or suffering from electrical issues, it can push cool air through your house. Call an HVAC technician.
  • Bad capacitor. If the capacitor is bad, your AC isn’t getting the power it needs. You need a replacement from an HVAC technician.
  • Worn out AC compressor. The compressor is a major component and often under a separate warranty. Call an HVAC technician to see if it can be saved. If not, you may need to consider an air conditioner replacement.

Weigh the cost of repair against the cost of new air conditioner installation. Consider with a new AC you’ll get a new warranty and if it’s more energy-efficient, lower AC bills immediately.


AC STILL NOT COOLING? CALL A-1 MECHANICAL

If these central air conditioning troubleshooting tips haven’t solved the problem, call our team in Lansing or Grand Rapids for help. We’re eager to help when you find your AC not cooling effectively. We offer a range of heating and cooling services to our communities including air conditioner installation, AC service and repair.

For a free estimate on new HVAC equipment or to book AC repair or service, call A-1 Mechanical at 517-348-0302.

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Why Is My House So Humid?

June 26th, 2019
Air Conditioning

Michiganders understand high humidity is just one of the tradeoffs of living near the Great Lakes, but you may still ask “why is my house so humid?” Unfortunately, proximity to a water source like the Great Lakes increases the amount of moisture in the air and makes the air feel warmer, especially in the mornings.

Humidity tells you the moisture content, or how much water vapor is present in the air. When humidity is high, it feels muggy or “sticky” because sweat doesn’t evaporate easily.

Conversely, when humidity is low, your skin is drier and it’s easier to become dehydrated. Think of winter, when we’re indoors, the air is dry (and colder). We tend to have more issues with dry skin in the winter because more moisture evaporates from our bodies.

In this blog, we’ll review the difference between relative humidity and dew point, what is an achievable and recommended humidity level indoors and how your HVAC system works to control moisture.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RELATIVE HUMIDITY AND DEW POINT

Relative Humidity

The relative humidity is measured as a percentage. It defines if the air is saturated. If the relative humidity registers as 100 percent, for example, the air is saturated. If the percentage is 50, it means the air contains half of the water vapor required to be saturated.

As the amount of water vapor in the air increases, the relative humidity increases too. Now, if the temperature drops but the water vapor stays constant, the relative humidity goes up. If the temperature rises while the water vapor is the same, the relative humidity goes down.

Why? Because colder air needs less moisture to achieve saturation than warmer air. For example, in the morning, when the dew is still fresh on the grass, the relative humidity is higher. The morning air is cooler and closer to saturation.

Finally, cold air is denser than warm air, which leaves more room for water vapor in the warm air of summer.

Dew Point

Although you’ve probably heard someone say, “it’s not the heat, it’s the humidity,” dew point is actually a better marker of humidity because it’s not dependent on temperature.

The dew point is the temperature in which the air must cool in order to be saturated. Below the dew point, water condenses from the air to surfaces, like the morning grass. Because it’s not related to temperature, the dew point doesn’t change as much during the day. So, in short, the answer to why is my house so humid is simply the air is nearly or fully saturated.

RISKS OF TOO MUCH HUMIDITY

When the humidity is high indoors, your home runs into certain risks including poor air quality. High indoor humidity often causes:

  • Mold and mildew growth
  • The right environment for dust mites to multiply
  • Insects and rodents seeking moisture. They leave behind droppings, nesting material and other particulates in your ventilation.
  • Cupping in hardwood floors and warping of wooden doors, door frames, and more
  • Uncomfortable living conditions for those with certain respiratory or cardiac conditions.

Humidity increases breathing difficulties for people with asthma, COPD, congestive heart failure and other conditions. Excess humidity increases allergy and asthma triggers like dust mites and mold and mildew spores.

HOW HUMIDITY AFFECTS COOLING

Too much moisture in the air traps heat and makes it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Therefore, it’s important to invest in an air conditioner or heat pump to both cool and dehumidify your home. Michigan weather might be great for growing blueberries, but if it’s humid inside, it may be hard to be comfortable and sleep well.

Humans cool their bodies by sweating. However, if there’s a lot of water vapor in the air, sweat can’t easily evaporate off our skin. At 100 percent relative humidity, for example, sweat won’t evaporate at all because the air is already completely saturated with water vapor.

Many people have ceiling fans to cool their homes, however, it is important to understand that fans do nothing to cool the air. They, in fact, provide a breeze to help your perspiration evaporate easier. They don’t cool the air, they help you feel cooler.

HOW AIR CONDITIONERS COOL YOUR HOME

Your air conditioning unit does more than just blow cold air into your home. It extracts heat and water vapor from the air to meet the temperature set by the thermostat. Inside your air conditioning unit are coils filled with refrigerant.

Refrigerant is a substance which moves back and forth between liquid and gas states to absorb and release heat. As the hot humid air from inside your home passes over these coils, the liquid refrigerant absorbs the heat and turns it into a gas.

To keep your home at a cool temperature, the air conditioner compresses the air inside the coils until it returns to liquid. The extra heat generated by compressing this gas releases outside the home via condenser coils and a second fan.

HOW AIR CONDITIONERS REDUCE HUMIDITY

High humidity makes the inside of your home feel clammy. Fortunately, an air conditioning unit extracts moisture with an evaporator coil. As humid air passes over the evaporator coil, it condenses and drains into a condensate pan.

To avoid water damage, keep an eye on your condensate pan. If you find water around your indoor air handler or suspect a clog in the line, call A-1 Mechanical for assistance. A small amount of water can easily create thousands of dollars of damage.

TIRED OF ASKING WHY IS MY HOUSE SO HUMID? CALL A-1 MECHANICAL FOR RELIEF

If the high indoor humidity is too uncomfortable or compromising the health of a family member, call our team in Lansing or Grand Rapids for help. We’re proud to offer a range of heating and cooling services to our communities including air conditioner installation and AC service and repair. You won’t need to ask “why is my house so humid” again!

We also have a selection of indoor air quality products such as whole house dehumidifiers designed to work with your central heating and air. For a free estimate on new HVAC equipment or to book AC repair or service, call A-1 Mechanical at 517-348-0302.

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How to Prevent Air Conditioner Damage to Save Money

May 14th, 2019
Air Conditioning

A quality air conditioning unit lasts for more than a decade. Air conditioning provides an oasis from the extreme heat of summer. Providing both comfort and security for your family is important. Your HVAC system is an expensive investment so it’s critical to know how to prevent air conditioner damage. Wear and tear over time results in high energy bills, and expensive air conditioner repairs may even result in premature air conditioning replacement in the future.

There are many factors that can damage your air conditioner. Both the summer sun and the frigid winters can weather your AC unit. Your HVAC unit has many moving parts which mean neglecting the air conditioner can lead to damage. A dirty HVAC system that frequently breaks down is also more prone to require replacement. A-1 Mechanical stresses the importance of properly maintaining your air conditioner to get the most out of your HVAC system.

5 Steps to Prevent Air Conditioner Damage

There are a number of key tips on how to prevent air conditioner damage and save money every month and for the lifetime of your equipment. As a local Lansing, Michigan HVAC contractor A-1 Mechanical provides our extensive experience and knowledge to help you save money. For many homeowners your HVAC system can benefit from following these steps:

Protect Your AC Unit with a Cover

When the AC unit is dormant in the late fall and winter, a protective cover prevents elements like rain, snow, leaves, and dirt from directly damaging your AC system. As we transition into warmer weather in Lansing and Grand Rapids, people seek comfort from their air conditioning units to keep them cool. Of course, you must remember to protect your unit with a cover in the fall and remove the cover from the AC unit before turning on the air conditioner.

A cover helps prevent air conditioner damage when used properly. A common mistake is to turn your air conditioning on while covered, which causes the unit to overheat quickly. This usually becomes a costly mistake if parts are ruined due to overheating. In some cases, the damage requires an air conditioning system replacement.

Inspect Furnace Filter Monthly

One of the easiest ways we know how to prevent air conditioner damage is to check your HVAC unit’s air filter every month. A dirty air filter chokes the components within the air handler and ductwork. This causes airflow to be restricted. Many furnace repairs can be linked to a dirty filter. A clean air filter helps your AC unit remain energy efficient and improves your indoor air quality.

This is simple air conditioner maintenance you can do yourself. When the filter is clogged, your system works harder to push air through it to heat or cool your home. This strains the system and ages it faster. It also requires more energy which increases your utility bills. Finally, it speeds up the path to increased repairs and even breakdowns. When you look at your air filter, first take note of any dirt or dust collected in the filter. If there is a significant amount, replace it with a new filter. Since air filters help to reduce energy costs, many homeowners choose to replace air filters monthly.

When purchasing a new furnace filter, each manufacturer recommends a compatible filter. There are many filters in the marketplace that make many claims. Always defer to the manufacturer of your HVAC system. Making sure you get the right filter type as well as a filter with the right dimensions ad type. Different types of furnace filters include fiberglass, pleated, and media. The wrong air filter can damage your air handler and air conditioner. By trusting the manufacturer your air conditioning runs properly, reduces energy bills, and prevents breakdowns.

Regularly replacing your furnace filter with the proper filter maintains the energy efficiency of the HVAC system and prevents excess wear and tear.

Clean The Outdoor Unit

Outdoor AC compressors lose airflow and thus, energy efficiency when leaves, dirt, dust and other debris collect on it. There are many sources of airborne debris that can clog your system and impact compressors. This is because the clogged air conditioner vents can’t circulate air efficiently. This, similar to a dirty air filter, causes the unit to work harder to produce the same cooling results. Cleaning restrictions from around the unit is a simple chore to perform weekly as part of your yard work. Clean systems produce cold air more efficiently and save energy.

Airborne debris also settles on air conditioner coils. Dirty air conditioner coils create an insulating effect. This makes it hard for the unit to vent the heat from your home to the outdoors. This increases cooling costs and impacts the comfort throughout your entire house.

Anytime you are in your backyard and especially after severe storms, make a quick check around your AC compressor. Specifically, pay attention during the spring storm season and during the autumn months when leaves are falling. Beware of ice on your AC unit and after the snow melts.

Inside your home keeping the area around your air handler is also important. You should think of your entire system as benefiting from steady airflow that is clean. Air will never be completely free of particulate but the cleaner you keep the area around your equipment, inside your system, and within your home, the better performance and indoor air quality.

Install Smart Thermostat

You’re probably already aware of the benefits of programmable thermostats and home automation systems, but there are certain things to keep in mind. For example, if you set your thermostat too low, you may decrease the lifespan of your AC unit through overuse. Each degree can save energy.

Programmable thermostats are helpful when you have a set work schedule. Programming your thermostat to use less energy is powerful. Using your air conditioning when you are not home is a waste of money. For many homeowners and busy families your life is not set by a work schedule, though.

Smart thermostats save on air conditioning bills by adapting to your actual activity. The smart thermostat adjusts your AC unit to respond when you leave your home. The less your air conditioner works the longer it lasts.

Schedule Annual Air Conditioner Maintenance

The final piece of advice on how to prevent air conditioner damage is to schedule preventive air conditioner maintenance. While these other steps are important DIY steps, professional HVAC maintenance is valuable for saving energy. Calibrating your system with professional HVAC professionals each spring assures your system maintains warranty and prevents surprise breakdowns.

Each brand of air conditioner requires unique steps. Professional HVAC technicians at A-1 Mechanical follow manufacturer guidelines and perform our thorough processes. Our experience and training guide our vision for helping homeowners achieve better performance and prevent air conditioner damage.

With a regular maintenance plan with a licensed heating and air company, you catch minor air conditioner problems before it needs more expensive repairs. This saves you money and avoids the expense and inconvenience of an unexpected major air conditioner repair later. Clean AC units with clean and well-functioning components cost less to operate. Our team also helps to verify ventilation is working properly and thermostats are optimized to save money.

If you do experience issues contact our team as soon as possible. A-1 Mechanical has experience with all types of repairs from the fan not spinning to complete breakdowns.

FOR MORE TIPS ON HOW TO PREVENT AIR CONDITIONER DAMAGE CALL A-1 MECHANICAL in LANSING, MI

If you are interested in our residential air conditioner repair service or a maintenance tune up, please contact our team. We help reduce air conditioner bills and protect you against damage.

A-1 Mechanical is dedicated to helping customers just like you keep their air conditioning units in optimal running condition.

We bring heating and air service, repair, and installation to Lansing communities such as Haslett, Williamston, Dimondale, Eaton Rapids, Charlotte and Grand Ledge.

You’ll also find us in the Grand Rapids area, including Byron Center, Grandville, Jenison, Kentwood, Plainfield, Walker, Cutlerville, Wyoming, Comstock, Park and East Grand Rapids.

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Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Unit Replacement

May 14th, 2019
Air Conditioning

Since air conditioners are an investment in your home, it makes sense that you would want to do your research before spending all that money. A licensed cooling system technician will be able to help you pick the best air conditioner for your budget and home cooling needs.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

When browsing new air conditioners, be sure to look at their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. The government has recently required all air conditioners to have a SEER rating of 13 or higher. If an air conditioning unit has a rating anywhere between 14 and 22, then you can be sure it is energy efficient. If an air conditioning unit has a rating anywhere between 14 and 22, then you can be sure it is energy efficient.

High SEER ratings are reflective of high energy efficiencies. This means that for the same amount of energy, an energy efficient air conditioner puts out more cold air for the same cost as non-efficient models.

PRICE

When shopping for a new air conditioning unit you will have to consider both the price of the unit and the cost of installation. While some homeowners try to save money by purchasing a new air conditioning unit on their own, we don’t’ recommend it. If you are unsure what size air conditioner to purchase for your home an experienced heating and cooling contractor can help you find the right size air conditioner within your price range.

You’re better off paying money for a licensed HVAC contractor to help you pick out an appropriate central air conditioning model than to be stuck with an expensive cooling appliance that doesn’t work properly.

SIZE

The air conditioning unit size must be proportional to the size of the house; otherwise there will be complications with your residential heating and cooling system. For example, if you get a unit that’s too small for your house, it will not be big enough to provide cool air to your entire home. On the other hand, if you purchase a unit that’s too big for your house, you will end up reducing your energy efficiency and paying higher energy bills for all the electricity your oversized unit uses. This is because units that are too big for their respective houses frequently turn on and off.

Before taking a recommendation from a HVAC professional, make sure that they first do a load calculation to determine the best size air conditioner for your home. A load calculation for air conditioners takes into account the square footage of your home, along with other factors such as insulation.

If you are interested in our air conditioner unit replacement service, please feel free to call one of our Lansing cooling system technicians at (517) 272-8629. A-1 Mechanical is dedicated to helping homeowners enjoy comfortable homes year-round.

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Benefits of Home Automation Systems

May 14th, 2019
Home Improvement

Have you ever wanted to more closely monitor and control your home’s temperature? Most of us have felt that way when our homes are at an uncomfortable temperature. In order to find out if a home automation system or smart home gadget is the right choice for your residential heating and cooling system, we recommend you contact a licensed HVAC technician in your area.

REMOTELY CONTROL YOUR HOME’S TEMPERATURE

With the home automation system, you are able to monitor and change the temperature settings via the touch screen thermostat or a smartphone app. The mobile app for your newly-installed home automation system can help you remotely control temperatures from anywhere.

This user-friendly feature is perfect for people who have to travel a lot for their jobs or who like to go on long vacations. For example, for extended trips during the winter, you can decrease the temperature of the house while you’re away to save money. Remember that the minimum temperature to keep pipes from freezing is 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

ADJUST TEMPERATURES FOR THE COOLING SEASON

During the spring and fall months, the temperature can vary dramatically during the course of a day. For example, it isn’t uncommon during the spring months for it to be 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning and 65 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon. For this reason, it may be necessary to run the furnace during the early morning hours, but not in the afternoon. With a residential home automation system, you are able to customize heating and cooling settings to compensate for the seasonal temperature fluctuations outside.

INCREASE YOUR HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

If you are looking to increase the energy efficiency of your home, a quality home automation system is a great start. By tracking how your heating and cooling appliances are used during the week, you can determine how to better make use of energy dollars. Home automation systems help you take manageable steps toward energy efficiency.

SAVE MONEY ON ENERGY BILLS

Whenever you increase the energy efficiency of your home, you are also saving money on your energy bills. While a few bucks a month may not seem like a big deal, over the years this can add up to significant savings. Most of the customers we work with enjoy having a little extra pocket money each month to spend on other things besides heating and cooling their homes. Plus, you have the satisfaction of making smart energy-saving choices for your home’s heating and cooling system.

COORDINATE SAFETY AND SECURITY SYSTEMS

If you already have a safety or security system installed in your home, you can connect it to your new home automation system. Through the home automation system app, you are able to watch live feed from your home’s connected security cameras. This integrated safety feature can help you feel more secure if you have to travel for long periods of time. If you have to work full time, it can also help you make sure your older children arrive safely from school.

For home automation system installation, you should contact an experienced Lansing heating and cooling contractor. Once the system is installed, they can help you get acquainted with your new technology.

If you are interested in our home automation system installation service, please feel free to call one of our licensed Lansing HVAC technicians at (517) 272-8629. A-1 Mechanical is dedicated to helping customers maintain comfortable homes with the latest heating and cooling technology.

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Air Conditioning Tips for the Cooling Season

May 14th, 2019
Air Conditioning

With summer rapidly approaching, many homeowners are getting ready to run their air conditioner units full time. However, before making that switch, be sure to check out our tips for how to make your home more energy efficient and save money on energy bills. It’s always good practice to schedule preventative air conditioner maintenance before the hottest months of the year. That way, you won’t be stuck sweating in July while your neighbors enjoy air conditioned comfort.

Hiring a licensed heating and cooling technician to inspect your air conditioning unit can help save you money in the long run.

CHECK FILTERS MONTHLY

Air conditioner filters are responsible for catching any dust and other airborne allergens from entering your home. While this is great for improving the air quality in your home, it’s also important to check your air filters once a month. When a filter is clogged, it blocks the flow of air. This causes your air conditioning unit to work harder in order to compensate for less air passage.

Checking the filters monthly is a simple way to ensure your energy efficient air conditioning unit keeps running efficiently. If you notice a lot of dust and other debris in your filter, be sure to change it. Changing an air conditioning unit filter is simple enough that you can do it on your own without calling an air conditioning repair technician.

CLEAR DEBRIS FROM OUTDOOR UNIT

Over time, dirt, dust, leaves, and other outdoor debris can collect on your outdoor air conditioning unit to block the transfer of cool and warm air. When the air conditioner isn’t able to run at full capacity, it is forced to work harder to put out the same level of cool air. This decreases your home’s energy efficiency.

To save money on your next energy bill, make sure that you check your outdoor unit to make sure there are no obstructions. This is a good thing to check for during the autumn months when the leaves start to fall. You should also check once the snow melts in the spring.

BLOCK OUT HARSH SUNLIGHT AND RUN FANS

Sun streaming through your windows brings natural light to your home. However, these sun rays also carry heat, which can quickly increase the temperature in your home. To combat this problem, be sure to close your blinds when the sun reaches its peak.

We also advise that you run fans to help circulate the air in your home and create a wind chill effect. If your home has a second story, you may want to strategically place extra fans to account for the fact that heat rises. Well-placed fans for cooling are usually enough to keep your home at a comfortable temperature during the cooling season.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF COOL MORNINGS AND NIGHTS

If you’ve lived in Michigan for long enough, you know that the spring and fall months are known for their cool weather patterns. Take advantage of these cool mornings and evenings by opening up the windows to let in fresh air.

Not only does fresh air have a lot of health benefits, but it will also help decrease the burden on your air conditioning unit. Whenever you can let Mother Nature cool your home, you should take advantage. Especially since these opportunities will fade by the time summer comes around.

SCHEDULE AIR CONDITIONER SERVICE

With any heating or cooling appliance, it’s important to invest in regular maintenance so that it will last for as long as possible. Air conditioner replacement can be a financial burden on families, which is why it is important to keep it running effectively and efficiently by scheduling air conditioning maintenance checks so that any minor issues can be fixed before they grow into larger, more expensive, HVAC repairs.

If you are interested in scheduling an air conditioning repair or maintenance visit, please feel free to call our licensed Lansing HVAC technicians at (517) 272-8629. A-1 Mechanical is dedicated to helping Lansing homeowners keep their homes comfortable year-round through quality air conditioning unit services.

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