How Proper Insulation Affects HVAC Performance

Creating a comfortable living environment while optimizing the performance of your heating and air conditioning system requires paying attention to a crucial element: insulation and well installed ductwork. In this blog post, you will learn the vital role insulation and ductwork plays in HVAC performance, explaining why it is essential for both energy efficiency and overall home comfort.

1. Enhancing Energy Efficiency with Proper Insulation

One of the primary benefits of insulation is that it locks in temperatures, both in winter and summer. By preventing heat from escaping during colder months and blocking cool air from leaking during warmer months, insulation helps optimize HVAC system performance. With efficient insulation, your heating and cooling equipment can operate more efficiently, reducing the workload and energy consumption.

2. Lowering Energy Costs and Increasing Savings

Insufficient insulation can result in significant air loss, causing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain desired indoor temperatures. As a result, energy bills can skyrocket. According to studies, approximately 20-30% of heating and cooling power is lost due to inadequate insulation in homes across the United States. By investing in proper insulation, you can significantly reduce air leakage, keep your energy usage in check, and enjoy lower utility bills.

3. Optimized Energy Efficiency

Think of your HVAC ductwork as the circulatory system of your home’s comfort. Leaky or improperly insulated ducts can result in significant energy losses, as conditioned air escapes into unconditioned spaces. This not only leads to energy waste but also higher utility bills. On the other hand, a well-sealed and insulated duct system ensures that the treated air flows efficiently to its intended destinations, reducing energy consumption and saving you money.

4. Extended HVAC System Lifespan

Efficient ductwork plays a role in prolonging the life of your HVAC system. When the system doesn’t have to work overtime to compensate for duct inefficiencies, it experiences less wear and tear. This translates to fewer breakdowns, a longer system lifespan, and ultimately, savings on repair and replacement costs.

Trust Reliable Technicians on Ensuring Your Efficient HVAC Insulation

To ensure your home’s insulation and ductwork is in optimal condition and your HVAC system is performing at its best, contact Bounds Heating & Air. Our team of experts will thoroughly inspect your insulation, provide professional recommendations and financing options, and assist with any heating and cooling services you may need. Call us today in Gainesville, FL to schedule an appointment.

Tips for HVAC Maintenance for Pet Owners

Pet hair and dander have a unique way of finding their way into every nook and cranny of your home, including your HVAC systems. Over time, this accumulation may hinder the efficiency of your air conditioning systems. Below are some HVAC maintenance tips specifically tailored for pet owners to address this issue. Through these HVAC tips, you can take preventive measures to keep your unit running smoothly and maintain a healthy living environment for you and your beloved pets.

Regularly Brush Your Pet
Regularly grooming your pets will help reduce shedding and dander. Brushing your pets outside can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up indoors. Doing so not only keeps their fur tidy but also helps minimize the amount of hair floating in the air and clogging up your AC.
Change Air Filters More Frequently
Pets with fur tend to shed continuously throughout the year, which means your air filters may fill up faster than in a fur-free home. It is wise to shorten the recommended filter change timespan to prevent clogged filters. Instead of waiting for the usual three months, consider changing your filters every two months or as needed. Keep a close eye on your filters for signs of excess pet hair accumulation.
Upgrade Air Filter Quality
Pet dander is a common allergen that affects a significant portion of the population. To minimize the impact of pet-related allergens, consider investing in higher quality air filters. Air filters have a rating called the MERV scale, which tells you how well they filter out particles. Opt for filters with higher MERV ratings, such as MERV 10-12, to trap smaller particles like pet dander and prevent them from circulating through your cooling system.
Vacuum Regularly
Aside from brushing your pets, regular household vacuuming is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Vacuuming picks up loose pet hair and dander that may have settled on carpets and furniture, preventing them from being sucked into the unit through air intakes. By reducing the amount of hair in your home, you can extend the lifespan of your air filters and improve the performance of your HVAC system.
Use Air Purifiers
Consider using air purifiers in rooms where your pets spend the most time. These devices can help capture airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance Today!

As pet owners, you are responsible for ensuring that your furry companions are not adversely affecting your HVAC systems or indoor air quality. By following the HVAC maintenance tips for pet owners above, you can enjoy a clean, efficient cooling device and a healthy home environment for both you and your pets.

Pet owners should also consider scheduling HVAC inspections and tune-ups at least twice a year. Call us at Bounds Heating & Air in Gainesville, FL for an immediate HVAC preventive maintenance service! Communicate with our expert technicians about excessive pet hair accumulation and any concerns regarding your HVAC system. They will thoroughly inspect and provide maintenance services tailored to your specific needs.

5 Signs of an Inefficient HVAC System

A well-functioning HVAC system is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions. However, even the most efficient systems can develop issues over time, leading to decreased performance and higher energy consumption.

To ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently, homeowners need to recognize the signs of inefficiency and take the necessary steps to address them. Identify and resolve issues of an inefficient HVAC system with these telltale signs.

Insufficient HVAC Cooling

One clear sign of an inefficient air conditioning unit is inadequate cooling. It can be caused by low refrigerant levels, hindering the system’s ability to cool your home effectively. You may notice this issue when you use your air conditioner more often in the summer.

Running the unit for longer periods without adequate cooling not only increases your electricity costs but also fails to provide the desired comfort. To address this problem, it is advisable to consult a professional HVAC technician who can check for leaks and replenish the refrigerant, ensuring your system operates efficiently.

Inaccurate Thermostat

Inaccuracies with your thermostat can lead to incorrect cooling or heating settings, resulting in discomfort and wasted energy. HVAC specialists can examine your thermostat to ensure it maintains the desired temperature range. They can repair or replace the component if they identify a faulty sensor or mechanism. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is another option, as it allows for more precise temperature control and can help reduce energy costs.

Drainage Problems

Leaks or water buildup indicate an inefficient HVAC system. Blocked condensation lines commonly cause poor drainage, leading to potential biological growth and respiratory issues. It is important to address drainage-related problems promptly by contacting a qualified HVAC professional. Taking swift action will prevent further damage to your system and potential water damage to your home.

Clogged or Dirty HVAC Filters

Over time, filters can become clogged and dirty, leading to decreased system efficiency. If your HVAC system is underperforming, cleaning or replacing the air filters may be necessary. Neglecting this maintenance can result in dirt and debris buildup on the coils, potentially causing your air conditioner to stop working.

Unusually High Electric Bills

A sudden increase in your electric bill is often a sign of reduced HVAC energy efficiency. The spike in costs may occur gradually over several months, indicating the gradual decline in your unit’s performance. Even without noticing any specific problems, a higher electric bill is a strong indication that you should seek the assistance of a qualified technician to evaluate your system.

Keep Your HVAC Unit in Optimum Condition

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for keeping your HVAC unit in peak condition. If you’re from Gainesville, Florida or neighboring communities, Bounds Heating & Air can help you achieve this goal. Contact us, and we’ll help you ensure maximum energy efficiency of your HVAC system.

Saving Money When Switching AC Units

TV20′s Kristin Chase sat down with Brett Fiore from Bounds Heating & Air to discuss switching your AC units. Fiore spoke about new legislation that gives incentives when people change to a more energy-efficient unit.

If you are needing service or installation of an AC unit you can reach Bounds Heating & Air at (352) 472-2761.

The Most Common Home Allergens in Summer

During the summer months, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens become more abundant in the air. In addition, the warm weather and outdoor activities can cause people to a variety of allergens that they may not encounter during other seasons. Here are some of the most prevalent home allergens during the summer season.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are among the most common indoor allergens during summer. Maintaining humidity levels indoors is crucial, especially in warm and moist areas such as carpets, bedding, and furniture, since these tiny creatures thrive in these areas.

Try to declutter and dust often. The more clutter your home has, the harder it is to keep clean and dust-free.

Pollen

Pollen is another common allergen that can cause symptoms during the summer. It can come from trees, grasses, and flowers and can be carried by the wind for miles. It is a common allergen that affects millions of people each year. Pollen allergies can cause various symptoms, including sneezing, itching, and congestion. So, it is crucial to the pollen levels in your area to prevent such.

Regularly vacuuming and dusting can also help to remove any pollen that may have entered the home. Also, using an air purifier with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorbing) filter can help to trap and remove pollen from the air.

Mold

Mold is also a common allergen during the summer, especially in areas with high humidity or dampness. It can grow on any surface and cause symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. Individuals with allergies must take precautions during summer to avoid exposure to these allergens.

To maintain the best indoor air quality, cleaning your air vents and filters should be a part of your regular housework. By doing so, they can enjoy the summer season without being hindered by allergy symptoms.

Pet Dander

Pet dander refers to tiny flakes of skin shed by pets such as cats and dogs. These flakes can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. During the summer, these pets tend to shed more frequently.

If you are experiencing allergies due to pet dander, there are ways to lessen its impact. One effective method is to groom your pet by brushing and bathing them regularly. Also, using air filters and vacuuming can help to remove pet dander from the air and surfaces in the home. The higher your air filter’s efficiency rating is, the more effectively it will capture airborne particles. If you’re currently using a MERV 7 filter, consider upgrading to a MERV 11 or 13. Although these filters typically cost more, they do a much better job at filtering out tiny particles like pollen, and the rating isn’t so high that it will impede airflow through your system.

Call Bounds Heating & Air Today!

If you’re tired of dealing with seasonal home allergens, it’s time to take action. Bounds Heating & Air is here to help you breathe easier this summer.

Our team in Gainesville, FL can assess your home’s air quality and provide solutions to reduce allergens and contaminants. We know the last thing you want is for your home to be unhealthy. Luckily, we can help. No matter the source of your indoor air pollution, you can trust that our qualified professionals have a solution. Once we fully inspect your home and complete an indoor air quality assessment, our team can determine the source of your poor indoor air quality and implement the best possible solution. Don’t let allergens ruin your summer – schedule a consultation with us today to help you improve your indoor air quality. Contact us now.

Regulating AC at Home While on Summer Vacation

TV20′s Kristin Chase sat down with Brett Fiore from Bounds Heating & Air on how to regulate temperatures while out of the house for vacation. Fiore recommends setting the temperature higher before leaving the house and regulating temperatures from afar through a WIFI thermostat.

If you are needing installation of an AC unit or more information on WIFI thermostats you can reach Bounds Heating & Air at (352) 472-2761.

Saving on AC During the Summer

TV20′s Kristin Chase sat down with Brett Fiore from Bounds Heating & Air to discuss how to prepare and maintain AC units during high temperatures. Fiore encourages people to have clean air filters and to buy a WIFI thermostat to control AC out of the house.

If you are needing service or installation of an AC unit you can reach Bounds Heating & Air at (352) 472-2761.

Signs You Need a New AC Unit

No matter how well you maintain your air conditioner, it will eventually begin to show its age. AC systems, like any other appliance, experience wear and tear over time. Knowing when it’s time to replace your AC unit can save you from costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Here are some signs to look out for that indicate you may need a new AC unit:

1. Your energy bills are increasing
  If you’ve noticed a significant increase in your energy bills without a change in your usage, your AC unit may be the culprit. As units age, they become less efficient, leading to higher energy consumption and higher costs. A new, more energy-efficient AC unit can save you money on your bills in the long run.
2. AC Is Producing Unusual Noise or Sound
  Unusual noises coming from an old air conditioning system are typically a sign that it’s reaching the end of its life. A grinding, squealing, buzzing, or scraping sound may be caused by serious issues like broken AC parts, refrigerant leaks, or a malfunctioning compressor. If this is the case, the repairs and maintenance may be worth more than replacing your whole unit.

1. AC Thermostat Isn’t Working
  The thermostat is the brain of an air conditioning system. Just set the temperature on it, and it’ll tell the AC how cold you want a space to be and when it needs to be cooled. But without a properly working thermostat, you won’t be able to control the temperature on your property.
  
  A faulty thermostat may exhibit the following problems:
  - AC not starting up or shutting down
  - Room temperature doesn’t match thermostat reading
  - Temperature fluctuating from room to room
  - In case of electronic thermostats, you can’t adjust the settings on it.
  You’re lucky if you just have to get your thermostat replaced. But if the technician sees something more that could turn into a big problem, you might have to buy a whole new AC system.

1. AC Is Old Enough for Replacement
  An air conditioner’s lifespan depends on a variety of factors, such as usage, maintenance, and quality of installation. But an average AC typically lasts about a decade. So if your cooling device is already in its tenth year, it’s best to start investing in an upgraded unit.
  
  Older air conditioning systems are less energy-efficient and may cost you more money in the long run. Meanwhile, a new air conditioner will save you money on your energy bills and provide better cooling performance.

If your AC unit displays any of the signs mentioned above, it may be time to get a replacement. Investing in a new, energy-efficient unit can save you money on your bills, improve your home’s air quality, and keep you and your family comfortable during the hottest months of the year. Contact a professional HVAC technician to help you determine the best course of action for your home.

Contact HVAC professionals from Bounds Heating & Air if you need to address your Gainesville AC installation needs. We’ll help you choose the best-suited air conditioning replacement for your home. Call us today!

Three Ways To Save on Heating Bills

Heat pumps, furnaces, and other heating devices are among the most commonly used appliances at home during the winter. As the state freezes due to the cold weather, overusing them raises your home’s utility costs. Fortunately, there are still options for you on how to save on heating bills. To learn more about this, read this blog.

1. Adjust the programming of your thermostat.

During the winter, it is best to adjust your thermostat to help reduce your heating bills. You can turn down your thermostat when you’re out of the house or taking an extended vacation away from home. Savings from this could reach up to 10% annually.

If you want an easy way to change the thermostat’s settings, consider purchasing a programmable one. Available for purchase and installation through Bounds Heating & Air, the Nest Learning Thermostat quickly learns the temperatures your family prefers at different times throughout the day and adjusts itself accordingly! The Nest features a bright, user-friendly display, connects to your phone, and automatically turns itself down when you’re away.

2. Use thick drapes.

The drapes you use can also impact heat retention in indoor spaces. That is why, during the winter, experts recommend using thicker curtains and blinds to reduce heat loss through your windows. Thus, the heavier the drapes you use, the more effective they are as a barrier to warm air circulation.

You can buy heavy thermal drapes that can help you withstand freezing weather. With heat-blocking curtains, you won’t need to alter the temperature of your heating units to accommodate your needs during the winter. Also, using them contributes to lower energy consumption and is more cost-effective for you and your home.

3. Wear warm clothing indoors.

Winter is the perfect season to enjoy channeling your layered outfit ideas. Aside from being able to mix and match your flannel and fleece clothes, wearing thick clothing indoors will undoubtedly keep you warm during the chilly weather outside.

A perfect pair of pullover jackets, sweatpants, and cute socks while sipping hot chocolate is a must-try winter item. Aside from putting on cozy outfits, the main advantage is that your heating system uses less energy because you don’t have to raise the temperature as much.

Consult HVAC Professionals Before Winter

The winter heating tips above can be helpful for you to get through the cold weather. However, nothing is more certain than seeking expert guidance on how to save on heating bills. Call us at Bounds Heating & Air to work with our heating technicians. Customers from Gainesville and other nearby communities in Florida are welcome to contact us with any questions regarding HVAC systems. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Four Winter Energy-Saving Tips

Staying warm in your cozy blanket while enjoying the heat from your heating device is ideal for dealing with chilly winter days. However, if you keep using heating appliances more than you ought to, your energy bill will definitely rise. As a result, it is neither energy-efficient nor budget-friendly. Even so, your home can still achieve it by practicing some energy efficiency tips provided below. Continue reading for some energy-saving tips and practices you can implement during the cold weather.

1. Set the Thermostat to the Most Comfortable Temperature.

A programmable thermostat like a Nest can help you save energy and reduce your heating costs by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home. You can set it to lower the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping, and then raise it to a comfortable level when you’re awake. This way, you’re not heating an empty home, and you’re only using the energy you need.

2. Leave the Drapes and Blinds Open During the Day.

You can use natural heat to reduce the time you spend using heaters. Even though it is winter, the sun can still emit sunlight, which can help you stay warm even when you are indoors. Hence, leaving the drapes open during the day allows heat into your home and reduces the amount of work your furnace has to do. Doing so results in a more energy-efficient home, even in a cold situation.

3. Repair Cracks and Gaps in Your Home

One of the biggest contributors to heat loss in your home is air leaks. These can occur around windows, doors, and electrical outlets, and can cause warm air to escape and cold air to enter. To prevent this, it’s important to seal these leaks. You can use caulk, weather stripping, or spray foam to seal gaps and cracks. This simple step can make a big difference in the energy efficiency of your home and lower your heating costs.

4. Consider Purchasing a New HVAC System.

If your heater has repeatedly undergone several repairs, you can consider replacing it with a new one. Doing so will save you money in the long run since the newer HVAC models are more advantageous in terms of airflow and efficiency.

Call Bounds Heating & Air in FL

While there are many practices you can do to reduce your energy bill, there is no better way than consulting the experts about how you can maintain your heating system this winter. Thus, Bound Heating & Air is always by your side to address any related concerns with your heating and air conditioning systems. Contact us today in Gainesville, FL for more winter energy saving tips.

4 Air Conditioning Myths You Should Know

Although there are information resources available about air conditioning systems, some homeowners continue to believe in myths about HVACs. Read the blog below to learn about some air conditioning myths.

Myth 1: Larger ACs Are More Efficient.

One of the popular misconceptions about air conditioners is that larger units are better and more efficient to use. But using an AC that’s bigger than what’s needed for the space will cause the unit to constantly turn on and off in response to temperature fluctuations. This increases the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, shortening the device’s lifespan. It is best to select an AC with a cooling capacity that matches the size of the room.

Myth 2: Only Replace the Cooling Device When It Malfunctions.

Keeping your heating and cooling devices while they’re still functional seems like a money-savvy practice. But if your air conditioning system is over ten years old, experts say it’s time to replace it. AC replacement saves you money and time spent on calling professionals for repeated repairs and breakdowns.

Myth 3: Lower Thermostat Means Faster Cooling.

AC systems condition indoor air by removing 15 to 20 degrees of heat from the system regardless of the temperature set in the thermostat. The conditioned air passes through the duct system and spreads throughout your rooms to maintain the proper ambient temperature. Thus, it is not true that the lower you set the thermostat, the faster your room will cool.

Myth 4: Turn Off the AC When Not in Use.

Turning off your air conditioning system when you’re out of the house makes sense, but does it really save you from excessive energy consumption? The reality is, it doesn’t.

That’s because the room temperature rises when you turn your AC off. And by the time you turn it back up again, your unit works double to reach your desired temperature. In addition, the vents are closed when your system is turned off, so air is not well distributed in your home.

Consequently, your cooling device is forced to cool the room faster when turned on, which causes early signs of wear and tear. That said, it’s recommended to keep your unit on all day as supposed to periodically turning it off.

No one wants high electricity bills and unexpected repairs caused by misrepresentations about AC maintenance. Some “facts” about air conditioning systems might be misleading, so it would be best to be mindful of circulating myths about AC systems. Call our AC professionals at Bounds Heating & Air for fast and accurate HVAC services in FL.

Why Furnaces or Heat Pump Smell Like They’re Burning When First Turned On

The winter season is approaching. During this season, many homeowners use their heat pump or furnaces to survive and get through to spring. However, heating devices such as furnaces and heat pumps can sometimes malfunction after being stagnant throughout the previous seasons. One example of said malfunctioning is the probability that your heater will smell like it’s burning right after being switched on. Read this blog to learn more about why this happens.

Dust Piles Are Being Burned Off

Whether you own Carrier AC units or other high-quality heating brands, you can’t be free from HVAC issues like dirt accumulation. Typically, a furnace/heat pump that smells like it’s burning is caused by dust piles. For instance, dust and debris can build up inside your heating system after not being used for a while. So, when it is turned on, the dirt is burned off, which produces a plastic smell in the room. Usually, this dissipates after a few minutes.

Vents Are Not Cleaned

When heat pumps and devices are not used, homeowners must expect their vents to require cleaning before they are ready for use. Inspecting your unit’s filters and other components is recommended to avoid clogs in air vents that will be burned and will produce a burning smell when your unit is first turned on. Doing so can also help prevent more significant furnace problems that may need more expensive solutions.

Unaddressed Electrical Issues

You also need to have a HVAC professional check the wiring of your furnace or heat pump. Faulty wiring can also be the root cause of the unpleasant smell coming from the system. So, inspecting all the wiring and electrical components before using your heating devices is always recommended.

Contact Professional Heating Technicians

A burning smell isn’t something you need to be scared of if your furnaces and heat pump systems receive regular maintenance. Professional heating technicians from Bounds Heating & Air recommend an annual inspection of your heating devices, like Carrier AC units. This way, experts can generally test your unit to see if it has significant damage that needs an immediate solution.

Contact our team today in FL for heating tune-ups and replacements. We are Carrier-authorized installers, and you can always count on our convenient, fast, and accurate heating services for your residential and commercial properties.

HVAC Maintenance: Most Common AC Problems

A healthy home doesn’t only mean a nice interior and furniture. It also includes fresh and sufficient indoor air that circulates throughout the house. Unfortunately, when your cooling system encounters AC problems, they can affect the quality of the air you breathe at home. So, it often results in unhealthy humidity levels, which may harm you and your family.

If you notice some signs of poor indoor air at home, the best thing you can do is to inspect your system and contact HVAC professionals to address the issue. Here are some common AC problems you may experience at home. Read on to learn more.

The Air Filters Are Clogged With Accumulated Dust Particles.
Has it been a while since you last checked your AC’s air filters? Maybe, they’re the reason why your cooling unit has been malfunctioning lately. If you haven’t inspected the air vents, do so. When the filters are clogged with dust and debris, they blow warm air indoors. It’s always best to clean AC filters and change them if necessary. Other significant AC problems may occur in due time if not addressed immediately.

The Air Conditioner Buzzes and Makes High-Pitched Sounds.
A low humming sound is normal when the cooling system is switched on. It becomes unusual when the unit starts to buzz with a high-pitched sound. It can indicate an AC’s electrical and internal problems like loose joints, damaged service valves, or fan blades. Contact an HVAC expert if continues noise doesn’t stop.

The Refrigerant Is Leaking
When the coolant in your air conditioner starts leaking refrigerant, the temperature will fluctuate, and the HVAC unit will not operate correctly. Refrigerant leaks can result in:

Damaged compressor
Uneven cooling
High power consumption
Coil freezing
Low efficiency

Having a professional inspect your air conditioner regularly for refrigerant leaks can help prevent costly repairs.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance Regularly

To ensure your AC is in top shape, it is always best to schedule preventive maintenance regularly. This way, HVAC technicians can easily detect minor and significant AC problems, maintaining your AC’s efficiency to provide quality indoor air to your household.

Our skilled technicians at Bounds Heating & Air can help you with different ventilation, air conditioner, and heating system issues. We provide top-quality Gainesville air conditioning services for our customers in Alachua County, Fl.

How To Clean Your AC Filter

The home maintenance routine must include HVAC inspections like regular AC filter cleaning or relacing. Whether your air conditioner has a permanent or disposable filter, a clean AC filter keeps allergens from spreading caused by a dirty air conditioner and gives the best air quality.

To clean or replace your AC filters correctly, you must know what steps to take. Here’s how:

Step 1: Turn Off the Central Air Conditioning System

Turning off your central AC helps prevent electric shock and other associated risks while cleaning or replacing the filters.

Step 2: Determine Whether Your AC’s Filters Are Disposable or Permanent

You can locate them in its service panel to see what type of filters it uses. Recommendations are usually to change or clean your air filter every 1-3 months. If it has disposable filters, you must replace them with new ones to keep the efficiency of the air quality at home. On the other hand, if it uses permanent filters, you can start clearing the dust and debris in the filter.

Step 3: Remove the Unit’s Dirty Filters

After switching off the AC, it’s now time to remove the filters and place the filter on the ground facing up. If you have a disposable filter, you can clean around the filter mount, then replace.

Step 4: Vacuum, Brush, and Wash the Filters

If you don’t have a disposable filter, you can start vacuuming the clogs from them. Make sure you have read the manual to follow the correct cleaning methods for the AC filters, so you’ll know whether it’s allowed to wash the filters with water or not.

The steps above show how a clean or replace your AC filter can benefit your family regarding comfort, health, and energy consumption. So, regular home maintenance practices like routine HVAC inspections must be on your schedule. But if you can’t figure out how to clean your air conditioner’s filters, talk to a professional in the field.

At Bounds Heating & Air, we provide residential and commercial owners with the highest quality of service for HVAC-related concerns. Our team in FL can assist you with services like AC filter cleaning and tune-ups. Contact us today to request your service!

4 Reasons Why HVAC Maintenance Is Important

Getting regular HVAC maintenance is a wise move for residential and commercial property owners. For year-round comfort, your heater should be inspected every fall and your air conditioner should be inspected every spring. Through this, they can immediately identify HVAC issues such as clogged filters, molds, and water and carbon monoxide leaks and address them with the help of an HVAC expert. Having these devices checked regularly also helps monitor your home’s indoor air quality and keep your systems in top shape as you move into the seasons when you need them most. Read on to learn more about the importance of HVAC preventive maintenance.

1. Lower Risk of Health Complications

Carbon monoxide (CO) leaks pose risks to you and your family’s health, particularly to the respiratory system. A homeowner must not skip a heating system’s checkup and inspection because detecting a CO leakage in your furnace is not easy to do on your own. If leaks are not found immediately, it might lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Avoid breathing problems caused by gas leaks by calling a professional HVAC technician. These experts can run a carbon monoxide test and pinpoint potential hazards. They can also suggest installing a CO detector on your premises, so you will know when your heating system is already leaking this poisonous gas.

2. Longer HVAC Lifespan

An HVAC unit that regularly undergoes a preventive maintenance inspection has a longer lifespan. It’s better to pay a small maintenance fee than a cooling/heating device replacement. A regular checkup can improve your unit’s lifespan and efficiency. In the long run, taking preventive measures is always better than regretting things later.

3. Energy-Efficient

Skipping HVAC maintenance will lead homeowners to higher energy usage. It causes the AC unit to operate harder than usual because of several factors and hindrances like dirty coils and clogged filters. So, to avoid higher electricity bills, it’s best to have an HVAC inspection at least twice a year to ensure an efficiently operating air condition system.

4. Save Yourself From Costly Repairs

System breakdowns can cost you a lot of money when you only contact HVAC experts for cooling system repairs. On the contrary, they are less likely to happen with regular preventive maintenance checkups. Thus, scheduling system checkups at least twice annually helps cut HVAC repair expenses.

Reach Out to Our HVAC Professionals

There is nothing worse than your AC breaking down during a heat wave or your heater blowing cold air in the dead of winter. At Bounds Heating & Air, it is our goal to ensure your family is perfectly comfortable all year long. We provide preventative HVAC maintenance services in Gainesville and the surrounding areas to make sure your systems are properly taken care of and you never have to worry about unexpected breakdowns again. Our extensively trained technicians specialize in servicing all makes and models of equipment. Our trained professionals can conduct emergency repairs and inspections. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about our services.

How To Keep the Best Indoor Air Quality at Home

Air conditioning systems work to supply your living spaces with the best indoor air quality. They give comfort to your loved ones regardless of the temperature outdoors. However, there are some factors that contribute to the poor air quality inside your house.

Common Indoor Pollutants

Poor indoor air quality is often a result of a combination of many factors. Poor ventilation, lack of circulation, unhealthy humidity levels, specific activities that take place within a home, building materials, and many other objects and circumstances can all culminate to seriously impact your indoor air quality.

Clean Your AC Regularly

Preventive maintenance is always about keeping your air-conditioning unit clean as it distributes cool air in your home spaces. To maintain the best indoor air quality, cleaning your air vents and filters should be a part of your regular housework. This will not only keep the pure and breathable air at home; it also saves you from expensive AC repairs caused by clogged air filters and AC malfunctions.

Ensure a Well-Ventilated Home

A well-ventilated home not only promotes good airflow; it also prevents moisture buildup. Proper ventilation allows fresh air to enter and, at the same time, makes it easier for your unit to take out the poor-quality indoor air.

Call HVAC Experts for Air Filter Installation

If you want to maintain pure indoor air quality at home, there are many devices that an HVAC expert can recommend to you according to your home’s specifications. Air purifiers, UV lamps, dehumidifiers, and ventilators are just some of what AC professionals from Bounds Heating & Air can offer as options. Don’t hesitate and contact our team for any indoor air quality services in Gainesville.

4 AC Troubleshooting Tips You Should Know

Keeping your HVAC unit working efficiently is a must for every homeowner. However, many property owners think that addressing AC-related issues are beyond themselves, so they choose to have a professional do it. Meanwhile, there are easy AC troubleshooting methods you can do at home while waiting for the professionals to check your unit. Here are some of them:

Always Monitor Your Thermostat Functions.

It’s a good habit to check the thermostat every now and then. Since it acts as your AC unit’s communication system, you should know how to check some of the basic functions of the thermostat. One tip if your unit isn’t cooling is making sure that your thermostat is on the auto mode, not fan. The fan setting will only act like a fan that moves room temperature air. The auto setting will turn on the outside unit that will remove the hot air and replace it with cooler air.

Battery-Powered Thermostats Should Be Replaced Regularly.

Always keep your thermostats working by replacing nonfunctional batteries with new ones. This helps prevent sudden communication errors between your thermostat and your unit.

Check if the Air Filters Are Already Dirty.

Sometimes it’s hard to notice that the filters need cleaning, affecting the air quality inside your home and damaging your HVAC system. Check if your air conditioner’s surface and filter is grayish and filled with contaminants such as molds and dust particles. It’s best to have your unit checked monthly so that the air filter is kept clean and the air quality your unit produces is free from contaminants. If you don’t change your AC filter on a regular basis, it will begin to fail and no longer be able to filter the air properly. This will result in letting dust and contaminants get into the HVAC system. These contaminants can jam the moving parts of your AC unit.

Defrost AC Coils if Needed.

If the air does not circulate in the coils behind the filter, it freezes them. So, once you notice that the coils are covered in ice, defrost the unit for at least 24 hours. By doing this, you can also check if the coils have blockage, like fibers or dust particles that affect the evaporator.

Contact an HVAC Professional From Bounds Heating & Air

If none of the AC troubleshooting tips mentioned above work on your HVAC unit, it is best to call a professional technician to address your concerns and problems. Contact Bounds Heating & Air for a trusted AC repair company. We understand just how important it is to make sure your home is taken care of and your family is protected, which is why we deliver unparalleled heating, ventilation, and air conditioning service in Gainesville and the surrounding areas. From minor repairs to major system overhauls, you can count on our highly trained service professionals to provide outstanding results every time you schedule an AC repair appointment with us!

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