Six Reasons Why Changing Your Furnace Filter is So Important

HVAC system maintenance is important both for functionality and for home comfort. Changing your furnace filter is one way to keep things running smoothly and efficiently. Below are six reasons  why changing  your furnace filter  is so important.

Why is it so important to change your furnace filter?

1. It saves money.

When your air filter is functioning properly, your HVAC system runs more efficiently. This conserves energy, lowering your utility bill. It also prevents the need for future repairs, which makes the upfront cost of replacement filters much more appealing.

2. It increases your furnace’s lifespan.

A clogged filter can result in an overworked system, reducing your furnace’s lifespan and turning “replacement time” into a necessity rather than an option.

3. It improves indoor air quality.

An old furnace filter loses its ability to trap pollutants and allergens. Dirty air is circulated, causing health concerns. A new filter captures these allergens, making the air being circulated safely breathe.

4. It reduces the need for repairs.

Regularly changing your furnace filter keeps other problems at bay. A clean filter means fewer repairs. Contact AC Dave (661) 270-1961 about our maintenance agreements.

5. It increases energy efficiency.

As already mentioned, an efficient system produces efficient energy use. A clean filter helps prevent energy waste.

6. It keeps the furnace and your home clean.

Do you enjoy breathing fresh air? That is the air filter’s job. A clean filter results in clean air, which results in happy skin, eyes, and lungs.

How often should you change your furnace’s air filter?
There are several principles you should consider when deciding whether or not you should change your furnace filter.

• High-efficiency filters do not need to be changed as often as filters with low MERV ratings.
• Your furnace filter will likely need to be changed in peak seasons of use, such as winter (heating) and summer (air conditioning). During these periods of frequent system use, you should check your filter monthly and replace it as needed.
• Households containing pets or smokers typically require regular filter changes. More contaminants in the air (pet hair, dander, smoking byproducts, etc.) result in clogged filters.

Look for a manufacturer recommendation on your air filter’s packaging that lists the filter’s standard lifespan.

How else can you protect your HVAC system?

On top of changing your furnace filter regularly, you should schedule routine HVAC tune-ups by a licensed professional. Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid problems and save money on future repairs.

Your family’s comfort is our priority.

Six Common Furnace Problems in the Winter

The dark and cold winter months don’t have to be miserable; it can be a great time of year just as long as you have a lovely warm home to return to. Your snug and cozy chamber can make the difference in winter, but it’s a different story if something goes wrong with your furnace. Here are six common furnace problems in the winter.

Only Blowing Cold Air

Blocked or filthy filters can cause some of the most common furnace problems in cold weather. Blocked filters impede the free flow of air; therefore, your furnace must work much harder. Not only is this bad economically, but it means your home will stay cold for longer. Make sure the filters are inspected regularly. Ideally, they should be cleaned or replaced every 1-3 months or during routine maintenance. If in doubt, consult one of our specialists at AC Dave Heating & Air, who can show you how to clean and replace your filters.

If your furnace is only blowing out cold air, it could also be a problem with your air ducts. They may be inefficiently insulated, leading to an uneven airflow, and need sealing.

Uneven Airflow

If some of the rooms in your home remain cold while others are adequately heated, an uneven airflow is likely due to the wrong system installed for your home, or the air ducts need attention. Inconsistencies in room temperatures could indicate insulation and draft problems, and that cold air is allowed in rather than a fault with your furnace itself. On the other hand, if there are no insulation issues, airflow may be the problem, and the vents may need adjusting. Consult a specialist at AC Dave Heating & Air to locate the problem.

Excessive Cycling

If your furnace switches on and off frequently, this could indicate a blocked filter, impeded airflow, or an inappropriate thermostat setting. It could also be a sign your house is leaking air.

Carbon Monoxide

This is potentially a severe issue. You must have a carbon monoxide detector fitted to safeguard against leakage. An old furnace may have developed minute cracks from which this lethal gas can get into your living space. If there is such a leek, consult a professional at AC Dave Heating & Air.

Loss of Power & Heat

This one is easy to spot in the depths of winter. Possibly a loss of power to the furnace, faulty pilot light, or ignition system could be the problem. Anything to do with broken pilot lights and ignition systems needs the help of an expert at AC Dave Heating & Air.

The furnace Won’t Turn On 

This could depend mainly on the age of your unit and how well it has been maintained. Check the thermostat is set appropriately to “heat” and the fan to “auto.” Check your circuit breaker to see if the circuit has tripped.

These are just six common furnace problems in the winter, and some are more serious than others. Call AC Dave Heating & Air (661) 270-1961 today to ensure your furnace is in perfect working order during winter.

 

Heating, Ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment will take a big step forward in efficiency and eco-friendliness next year in the U.S. Here’s what you need to know HVAC changes in 2023. Two significant changes will affect heat pumps and central air conditioners.

Here Is What You Need to Know HVAC Changes in 2023. At AC Dave Heating & Air we are here to help you navigate those changes in California. Our qualified technicians have your back whether you need equipment maintenance, repairs, replacement, or installation. We offer solutions tailored to your unique comfort and budget needs.

What Is Changing?

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will raise the minimum efficiency standards for air-source heat pumps and central air conditioners starting next year. Systems sold in the U.S. beginning Jan. 1, 2023, must meet those minimum standards.

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) describes cooling system efficiency. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is. The number represents the unit’s output during the cooling season divided by the amount of electricity the unit used over that same period.

Currently, the efficiency baseline is 13 SEER for heat pumps and air conditioners installed in homes in the northern half of the U.S. and 14 SEER for equipment in the southern half.

Next year the minimum standard goes to 14 SEER for northern states and 15 SEER for southern states.

Heating Efficiency

The minimum rating for heating efficiency also will increase for air-source heat pumps. The heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which describes heat pump efficiency, will increase from 8.2 to 8.8.

The federal government will not require you to replace your older heat pump or air conditioner when the minimum standards change next year. However, if you decide to install new equipment in 2023, you will not be able to buy a 13 SEER model. Your new equipment must be rated 14 SEER at minimum. Your new heat pump also must carry an HSPF rating of 8.8.

How You Can Save Money

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the new standards will result in huge savings on utility costs for consumers. The agency estimates that households with air conditioners or heat pumps collectively will save $2.5 billion to $12.2 billion over the next 30 years on energy bills.

If your air conditioner or heat pump is older than 15 years, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. New equipment offers more energy-saving features, such as two-stage and variable speed compressors and blower motors. Single-stage compressors, for example, work at capacity all the time. However, variable speed is most efficient.

Two-stage and variable speed compressors operate at lower speeds and use less energy most of the time. They also can run at capacity when the temperature rises. Our AC Dave Heating & Air experts can help you determine which features fit you home.

New Refrigerants in 2023

The other significant HVAC change in 2023 involves the kind of refrigerant manufacturers will use in all new air conditioners and heat pumps.

Since 2010, residential cooling systems have contained a refrigerant called R-410a, a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC). This   refrigerant has high global warming potential and could harm the environment if it leaks from a cooling system. For that reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is phasing down the manufacture and importation of HFCs by 85 percent over the next 15 years.

Beginning next year, new cooling systems will contain a refrigerant with a lower global warming potential. Several manufacturers, including Carrier, will build heat pumps and air conditioners compatible with R-454b. This refrigerant is more environment-friendly than its predecessors but also mildly flammable. We cannot retrofit existing equipment to use the new refrigerant.

Although R-410a will be available for equipment repairs over the next few decades, no new air conditioners or heat pumps will contain R-410a beginning next year.

Purchasing a new cooling system with your preferred refrigerant is all in the timing. If you want a new unit with R-410a, buy it this year. You will start saving money immediately on utility bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency system.

If you prefer R-454b, called Puron Advance in Carrier products, wait until 2023. At AC Dave Heating & Air our trained professionals can walk you through the pros and cons of the changes in HVAC in 2023. Call AC Dave Heating & Air 661 270 1961 to schedule your appointment.

 

Care of Your HVAC Systems and Pet Care

HVAC maintenance is essential to keep both your system and your air quality in good condition while your furry best friend is shedding. Here are a few practical maintenance tips to take care of your HVAC, your pet, and your air quality all at once by:

1. Making Sure That Your Pets Are Well Groomed
2. Maintaining HVAC Air Filters.
3. Outdoor Activities
4. Building A Barrier Around Your Outdoor Condenser
5. Seek Help From The HVAC Professionals.

1. Know your animal’s unique needs

Cats, puppies, and short-coated dogs are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures. Some dogs, especially short-coated breeds, puppies, and elderly dogs, may benefit from a dog sweater or coat as an extra layer of warmth.

Brushing your pet regularly is definitely the most enjoyable HVAC maintenance activity. Brushing your dog, cat, rabbit, or other furry companion picks hair up into the brush and drops it on the ground, meaning less fur can float into the air and clog up the filter. Weather-permitting, it’s even better to brush them outside because loose fur can fly away in the wind instead of becoming part of your home air system.

Your indoor air intake is also a suction for hair and dander. You want it to be because it pulls all the dust and allergens into the filter so that home air quality is improved by the HVAC cycle. You can make each filter last longer by picking up as much pet hair as possible with the vacuum instead. In addition to brushing your pet regularly, be sure to vacuum twice or more a week to pick up all the shedding that has settled into the carpet and furniture.

2. Change Air Filters More Frequently

Pet hair and dander can clog your filter faster than in a standard fur-free home. Pet dander is one of the most well-known allergens in the world. While there are hundreds of pollen varieties, a pet in the house is a sure source of allergens for about 20% of the population who are allergic. This is a good reason to increase the quality of the filters you buy.

Air filters are measured in MERV ratings,

which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It measures the efficiency of a filter. Lower MERV ratings filter less, while higher MERV ratings enter the clean-room levels of filtration.  MERV 5-8 filters are standard for modern homes. If you’d like to reduce allergies, look for filters with a MERV of 10-12. These trap smaller particles – like pet dander 3– and prevent the allergens from filling your HVAC unit as dust or coming back into your home air through the vents.

 If your filters or HVAC are rated for one new filter every three months, try every two months or two and a half, and keep an eye on your filters for signs that they are topped up with pet hair, and it’s time for a change.

3. Outdoor activities

Some dogs want to be outside regardless of the weather. Even if your dog has a thick coat, keep an eye on them when they are outside playing to watch for early signs that they’re cold, such as holding up paws or shivering. Remember to knock on the hood of your car or sound the horn before starting the engine. Cats hiding under hoods can be injured or killed by the fan belt.

Keep an eye out for antifreeze, or other automotive leaks in your driveway. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that can be attractive to animals and can be fatal if ingested.

Use a damp towel to wipe your pet’s paws and underside if they’ve walked along salted sidewalks or roads. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks can irritate and burn your pet’s sensitive paws and can cause illness if ingested.

4. Build a Fence Around Your Outdoor Air Conditioner

If your pets spend time in the backyard, be sure to protect your outdoor air conditioner unit. The condenser is a giant suction unit. Its vents actually pull outdoor air in as part of cycling the air indoors. If your pet rubs on the condenser as dogs and cats sometimes do, they send their fur and dander directly into the unit. This can clog your outdoor unit and can send dander into your HVAC system from outdoors.

If you have an animal that pees on upright objects like trees, then the condenser is also at risk. Urine is acidic, and in yards where a dog has regularly peed on the condenser, you will find the fins completely etched away by the acid.

5.Twice Annual HVAC Maintenance

Finally, keep up with your HVAC maintenance. A house with pets is full of love, but it’s also full of fur, which puts extra stress on your HVAC system. An HVAC maintenance schedule includes an inspection and tune-up once to twice a year. On the first inspection, mention that you have a pet (or pets) and want to ensure pet fur isn’t choking the system.

Your technician will take a close look at the indoor and outdoor units, provide maintenance services and make suggestions on how to best take care of your unit and protect it from excessive pet hair issues.

If you have any questions or need a repair, give us a call. We look out for our 4-legged & 2-legged friends; contact AC Dave Heating and Air at 661-270-1961. Fall is here, let’s make sure your heater is ready! https://acdaveheatingandair.com/residential-and-commercial-services-energy-rebates/

 

Do You Know the symptoms of heat stroke?

 

With the temperatures getting hotter, AC Dave Heating & Air would like you to know that heat exhaustion and heat stroke are preventable. Do You Know the Symptoms of Heat Stroke? Read on for some do’s and don’ts.

According to the CDC, signs of heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, include:

• Body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or more (40 degrees Celsius)
• Fainting
• Confusion
• Fast and strong pulse
• Dizziness
• Skin that is hot to the touch. The skin may also be red, dry, or damp.
• Upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting

DO

Call 911 immediately if someone is showing heat stroke symptoms

 Heat stroke is a medical emergency. In the U.S., dial 911.

While you wait for help, the CDC recommends that you provide first-aid treatment:

• Move the person to a cooler place out of the sun.
• Cool the person by applying cold, wet clothes or by placing the person in a cool-water bath.

DON’T:

Do not delay care, even if you are worried that the person may contract COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Hospitals are working to protect patients during the pandemic, for example, by limiting visitors and separating COVID-19 patients from others.

If a person shows heat stroke symptoms, do not force them to drink water or other fluids.

DO:

Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a less serious condition than heat stroke. But without treatment, it can progress to heat stroke, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. The CDC lists the following symptoms of heat exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale, and clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting

The CDC advises you to treat heat exhaustion by taking these steps:

• Move to a cooler place out of the sun.
• Remove or loosen your clothes.
• Cool yourself by applying cold, wet clothes or by bathing in cool water.
• Take sips of water.

 Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these problems:

• You vomit
• Your symptoms worsen
• Your symptoms do not go away within one hour

 To reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, watch the forecast

 Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are more likely to occur when the weather is hot, so monitoring the weather forecast is an important prevention step. Keep in mind that asphalt and concrete absorb heat, so if you live in an urban area with many parking lots, buildings, and other structures, your block may be significantly warmer than other areas of your city. High humidity is also dangerous. On hot days, you cool down as sweat evaporates from your skin. But when the air is very humid, sweat evaporates from your body only slowly, which prevents it from cooling itself effectively. When you check the weather forecast, look for the heat index, a number that includes the effects of both temperature and humidity levels. If the heat index is 91 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you should take steps to stay cool, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• Make sure to drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeine.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid exercising outdoors during the hottest times of the day.
• If you are playing, exercising, or working outdoors, take breaks to cool down under shade.
• If you supervise people who are playing or working in hot weather, offer them plenty of chances to take breaks and drink water.

Seek shelter during heat waves. To stay healthy, your body needs a break from high heat and humidity. If you do not have air conditioning, seek shelter in air-conditioned buildings. Many communities offer cooling centers in libraries and other public spaces. But those buildings may be closed or have limited capacity because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so also consider these options:

• Do you have friends or family members living in an air-conditioned building who would allow you to shelter with them?
• Do you know someone who would allow you to borrow a window AC unit?
• Is your local government offering window AC units or temporary shelter in spaces where self-isolation is possible, such as in hotel rooms?

Know who is most at risk for heat-related illnesses

 Anyone may fall ill because of overheating, but some people are at special risk:

• Athletes
• Outdoor workers
• People who lack access to air conditioning
• Children
• People aged 65 or older
• People who take certain drugs. According to the Mayo Clinic, some drugs may reduce your body’s ability to maintain its temperature or hydration levels. Such drugs include beta-blockers, diuretics, antihistamines, tranquilizers, antipsychotics, and others.

Understand that global warming is making heat waves more frequent

 Carbon pollution from vehicles, factories, and power plants is trapping extra heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, much like an overly thick blanket can trap too much heat around you at night. That extra heat is making heat waves more frequent.

Please stay safe. Remember to CALL 911 if you or an elderly friend or family member is experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness.

Is A Ductless split right for you and your home? 

Is a ductless heating and cooling system right for you and your ductless mini-split system vs a standard heating and cooling system?

Depending on the application, a ductless heating and cooling system could be a great addition to your home and improve its overall value.

Pros of a Ductless Heating & Cooling System

1. Very Energy Efficient

Ductless heating and cooling systems are extremely energy efficient compared to a standard HVAC system.

Energy usage for these units is measured using a SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio).

Many of these units have a variable speed motor that can be adjusted based on need.

Also, the ductless system has an advanced inverter-driven compressor that operates in a cruise control style setting. It ramps up only when needed and then slows back down to conserve energy.

With a ductless heating and cooling system, you are generally looking at a 40% increase in energy efficiency compared to a standard ac unit! Options include more than 30 energy-star certified systems making it right for your home.

2. Flexibility in Usage

One great benefit of a ductless system is its ability to “spot treat” certain areas of your home that are hard to heat and cool with your normal HVAC system.

If a room is located far away from your central HVAC system, the room may become hot in the summer and cold in the winter due to reduced airflow to that area of the home.

Without the hassle of ductwork needing to be run or air returns installed, these systems can be installed in almost any room you can imagine with room-by-room temperature control now at your fingertips.

Popular areas in a home for a ductless unit include:

• Finished basements
• Attics
• Rooms located over garages
• Sunrooms

Options for ductless systems include single rooms, multiple rooms, or even your entire home. Adding a ductless system is also a great way to increase your home’s value and right for your home.

3. Better Air Quality

Unless you have a HEPA filter or an advanced air cleaning system installed on your central heating and cooling system, the air from your ductless unit will generally be cleaner.

A large factor contributing to this is the absence of ductwork.

Over time, ducts become lined with dust and other debris that slip past your furnace filter.

No matter how many times you change your furnace filter, if your air ducts are dirty, the air you breathe will be dirty as well.

By not having to worry about dirty ductwork, a ductless system can provide cleaner air consistently.

The ductless system also uses a sophisticated multi-part filtration system to reduce contaminants such as allergens, viruses, and bacteria from the air.

With regular cleaning of your ductless system, the filters can last up to 10 years!

4. Quieter Operation

Compared to a standard central air system, a ductless heating and cooling system is generally much quieter during operation. Unless you are standing right next to the unit, you generally won’t even hear it operating.

As the ductless unit needs to only cool and heat one room, it does not have a loud blower motor that needs to force large amounts of air into your home.

During operation, you can generally expect noise to not exceed 19 DB in the indoor unit. Compare this to the average dB level of 40 at your local library.

5. Can Both Heat and Cool

One of the greatest benefits of a ductless system vs a standard air conditioner is its ability to both heat and cool making it a year-round system and right for your home.

Call AC Dave Heating & Air to schedule an appointment to discuss the pros of a ductless HVAC system and find out if it’s right for your home.  661-270-1961

TIPS FOR SUMMER READY HVAC

Now that summer is heating up, you’ll want to begin your seasonal preparations for your HVAC if you haven’t already. Specifically, you’ll want to get your air conditioner – whether it’s a central, portable, or window A/C unit – ready with our useful tips for summer ready HVAC.

The following tips will not only keep you from overheating this summer, but they’ll also keep your bank account from overheating from high energy bills.

It’s important to make sure that your air conditioner will be up to the task when you need to crank it up to full blast on those sweltering summer days. Schedule an annual tune-up for your air conditioner and have a professional perform preventative maintenance, check the refrigerant levels, and take care of any mechanical problems your unit might have. Even if your air conditioner seems to be in perfect working order, it might have small problems that can lead to large utility bills, not to mention even larger repair bills should those small problems turn into big ones.

Replace the air filter

At the start of the cooling season, check the air filter in the furnace and replace it if it’s dirty. Then check it every month that you run the air conditioner (and the furnace, for that matter) and if it is dirty replace it with a new filter. A dirty air filter blocks airflow, making your HVAC system work harder.

Clean the condenser coils

Cleaning the condenser coils makes it easier for the air conditioner to remove heat from the air, which also helps the condenser use less energy. Ideally, taking care of this job before the air-conditioning season starts.

First, turn off the AC inside the thermostat. Then shut off the condenser—look for a metal box attached to the outside of the house near the AC’s condenser unit and switch it to the off position. Some models have a block to remove instead of a switch. Then remove dried leaves, overgrown vegetation, and other clutter on and near the condenser unit.

Next, use a garden hose without a spray attachment to gently rinse the condenser coils with water. Avoid the electrical connections on the back. Flush the space between the coils too. Keep the water pressure low, or you could bend the fins. Turn the condenser on. Allow ample time for the coils to dry before turning on the AC inside the thermostat completely.

Check the insulation on the freon line

A freon line connects the evaporator on the air handler to the condenser outside. If the foam insulation that covers the line is torn, contact AC Dave Heating & Air to replace the insulation. 

Shut off the furnace humidifier

If your furnace is equipped with a humidifier, turn off the humidifier. Your air conditioner helps keep you cool by removing humidity from your house—so you don’t want the humidifier attached to your furnace to be pumping moisture into the air If your humidifier doesn’t have an on/off switch, move the damper door lever to the Cool position, which reroutes the cool air, so it doesn’t go through it.

You don’t want the first time you use the unit to be when it’s already sweltering hot outside. While the weather is still somewhat cool, do a few test runs with your unit. That way, you’ll be able to diagnose any issues before you really need the extra cooling power.

If you’re not comfortable doing any of the above steps or something not working, right? Need help getting your AC ready for warm weather? Keep your cool and let our experts handle it, call AC Dave Heating & Air at 661-270-1961 to schedule your appointment today.

NEED FIRST-RATE HVAC SERVICES LOOK NO FURTHER THAN AC DAVE HEATING & AIR

Is your HVAC system in need of a tune-up or pre-paid maintenance plan? Or perhaps you are in the market for a new commercial unit? Rely on AC Dave Heating & Air for expert recommendations and installation services.

Below is a partial list of our HVAC services with an emphasis on  meeting  your needs:

• • Charging HVAC systems
  • System recovery
  • System evacuation
  • Climate control
  • Duct installation, replacement, sealing, and repair
  • Ductless split system installation and repair
  • Energy-efficient system
  • Rebates https://www.socalgas.com/save-money-and-energy/rebates-and-incentives
  • Evaporative cooler repair
  • Financing available through KwikComfort Financing
  • Furnace installation, service, and repair
  • Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning design
  • Install and repair dampers
  • Propane furnace installation, service, and repair
  • Quality products at an affordable price
  • Replace circuit board
  • Service agreements
  • Wine coolers installation and service
  • Compressor service and replacement
  • Strip heater installation and repair
  • Thermostat installation, replacement, and repair
  • Warranty on our work
  • iWave air purifiers
  • Wifi thermostats

Furthermore, we will care for your family’s heating and cooling system like it is our own. Lastly, whether you’re looking for routine maintenance or the system has failed, and you need a replacement, AC Dave Heating & Air can help. Call 661-270-1961 to schedule one of our Nate certified technicians.