Have you ever wondered what goes into a heating or air conditioning system for a large office building or another large building like a mall or a school? My name is Evelyn, and I am an HVAC architect. I design heating and air conditioning systems for large, corporate buildings. Making sure that a large building with many rooms or offices is efficiently heated and cooled is a very large job and is much more complicated than simply heating or cooling a home. This blog will educate the reader on how heating and cooling jobs this large are designed and completed.
Nicole Jacobs
When should you call a professional for an air conditioner repair? It's summer—and your home is suddenly (and uncomfortably) hot. Should you speed dial an HVAC contractor ASAP? If you're not sure whether your central system needs a professional, take a look at the top repair-related questions to ask right now.
When Was the Last Time You Replaced the Filter?
Air conditioner use accounts for nearly six percent of the total electricity the United States produces, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. A clogged AC filter will force your system to work harder. Not only can this decrease the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner and cost you money in unnecessary electric bills a dirty filter can also impact the system's ability to effectively cool your home.
If your AC system starts, responds to changes in the interior temperature (the system turns on and off based on the thermostat's readings), and doesn't make odd noises or have strange smells, start with the filter. This issue typically won't require a service call. But if the filter is clean, new, or you change it and still have a home that's too hot, you need to call a professional HVAC contractor.
Along with the main air filter, check individual vents in each room. Dust and pet fur can clog the vents and stop the cool air, causing your home to feel uncharacteristically warm.
Are the Thermostat's Batteries Old?
Before you answer this question, make sure your thermostat uses batteries. Many modern digital and programmable models use batteries as a power source. Some thermostats are wired directly into the home's electrical system. If your thermostat's screen is blank or it doesn't respond to changes in the interior temperature, you may need to change the batteries.
A battery change is a simple step that can turn your AC system's problems around without professionals. If you replace the batteries (or your thermostat doesn't use batteries), contact an HVAC contractor for a professional inspection and repair. The contractor may need to replace the thermostat—or they may find another problem that's at fault for your hothouse.
When Was the Last Time a Pro Checked the System?
Did you skip this year's annual maintenance appointment? What about last year and the year before? If you can't remember the last time you scheduled pre- or post-season maintenance, call a contractor. Routine check-ups and cleanings can prevent premature system failure and help to keep your home cool.