Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Do You Need Heating System Repair or Replacement?

heating-system-repairThe holidays are over but winter hasn’t left us just yet. Which means your heating system still has work to do this season.


broken heater is a problem that you need to solve immediately. But this brings up a common question: “Do I do a heating system repair? Or do I do a heating system replacement?”


Heating system repair can be expensive ($200 to $2000) but still cheaper than installing a new furnace ($2000 to $10000). But in the long run, replacing your old heater may be more cost-effective.


How do you decide? Read on to find out.


Consider a Replacement


There are several reasons why installing a new, more energy efficient heater is the better option.


Your Heater Is Older Than Your Daughter in College


The average lifespan of furnaces is 15 to 20 years. Air conditioners and heat pumps only survive for 10 to 12 years. Of course, a number of factors influence the lifespan, including overuse and maintenance.


If your heating system is within those ranges a replacement is recommended in most cases. Technology has advanced in recent years and you can expect newer models to be more efficient. This will save you costs on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.


Older models also tend to be oversized which can contribute to inefficiency and spacing problems should you decide to renovate your home.


New heater models are also compatible with smart thermostats which can be controlled remotely from your smartphone. If you live in Arizona, you are eligible for a $75 rebate when you register an approved smart thermostat.


A Crack in the System


Cracks in your furnace pose a serious health risk. It means that carbon monoxide, a deadly poison gas, may be leaking. In this scenario, replacing the furnace is an easy decision that you should do post haste.


The 50% Rule


You are probably familiar with the 50% rule with regard to home appliances. If the repair cost approaches 50% of the current value of the appliance, it is time to replace.


We added another condition to this rule. If your furnace or heat pump is beyond 50% of its lifespan, and heating system repair costs equal or exceed 50% of the current value, we recommend installing a new one.


Consider Heating System Repair


If your heating system shows problems that don’t warrant a replacement as discussed above, we can still save your heater and save you money.


There are some things that you can do yourself if your heater is malfunctioning. First, check if your thermostat is on and set correctly. If it doesn’t turn on, replace the battery.


Then check your breaker and other electrical connections. A blown fuse is a common culprit.


The next thing to do is to check and clean the components. Do you have a clogged air filter that you need to replace? If you have a furnace, is the seal between the ducts and the furnace intact? Do the parts need lubrication?


If your heating system is still wonky after these basic troubleshooting steps, time to call a professional.


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If these tips still find you in need of the professionals, Hays is the go to leader in heating repair Phoenix, AZ!


Call us at (602) 714-8270 or email us to to schedule an appointment! It Pays To Call Hays!


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Read the full story at: https://hayscoolingandheating.com/do-you-need-heating-system-repair-or-replacement/

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

6 HVAC Maintenance Tips All Homeowners Should Know


hvac-maintenance-tipsA working HVAC unit makes for a happy homeowner. Most homeowners look for ways to save money on home repairs. One of your biggest expenses can come in the form of repairs to your heating and cooling system.


There are simple HVAC maintenance tips that can prolong the life of your system. Learning how to do your own preventive maintenance can maximize efficiency.


To keep your system in good condition, continue reading for useful tips on properly maintaining your HVAC system.


1. Replace Filters


Replace your filters every 90 days for better efficiency. If you use your unit more than normal or if your unit is older, your filter may need to be changed more often.


A good way to judge if your filter needs replacing is if it is covered in dust and air can no longer flow.


Don’t settle for cheap filters. This is one area that can cost you down the line. Air filters have come a long way and there are new and improved products on the market.


Air filters are easy to change by slipping out the old filter and then sliding in the new one.


2. Check Your Unit’s Clearance


It is important to keep your unit free of obstruction. If you have trees or shrubs near your outside unit, regular HVAC maintenance includes cutting back limbs.


A safe clearance for your unit is two feet.


3. Clean the Condensate Drain Line


Your HVAC system has a condensate drain line. If this line becomes clogged, it can cause your system to freeze and fail to operate properly.


Cleaning the line is another quick fix. Simply detach the line and pour a cup of bleach or vinegar to clean out the sediment, algae, and mold that can build-up.


4. Keep Your Evaporator and Condenser Coils Clean


Both your indoor and outdoor HVAC units have coil systems. It is important that these coils remain free of debris for consistent airflow to keep the units running.


One sign of blocked coils is the unit may no longer turn on.


Cleaning the coils is another quick HVAC maintenance hack. Be careful and follow the coil cleaner instructions. If the coils become damaged it can be a costly repair.


5. Check Air Ducts During HVAC Maintenance


This is a simple maintenance procedure. With the unit running, walk through the house to ensure that air is flowing through the vents.


If you do not feel the air coming through, make sure the vents are fully open and not being obstructed.


It is also a good idea not to close too many vents. The more vents you close the harder the unit will have to work.


6. Check for Tears in Air Ducts


Sometimes critters can get into your attic and damage your air ducts. If you feel air is being restricted, check for damage.


A sign of torn ducts is insulation debris blowing through your vents.


Do You Need an HVAC Check-up?


As seasons change so do the needs of your HVAC system.


If it’s been a while since your unit has had preventive maintenance, contact us to schedule a heating and cooling maintenance check.


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If you’re looking for HVAC repair in Phoenix, AZ, contact the pros at Hays Heating and Cooling.


Call us at (602) 714-8270 or email us to to schedule an appointment! It Pays To Call Hays!


Read Related Articles:



Read the full story at: https://hayscoolingandheating.com/hvac-maintenance-tips-all-homeowners-should-know/