Benefits of Installing a Whole-Home Humidifier

How Humidifiers Can Benefit Homes This Winter

During the winter season, many households experience dry air and discomfort. Installing a central humidifier can provide numerous benefits for indoor air quality and comfort. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry skin, eyes, throat, and sinuses.

Humidifiers can also reduce static electricity and protect wooden furniture and musical instruments from cracking. With the right humidity level, a home can feel warmer at lower temperatures, helping save on energy bills. This blog will share three additional benefits of installing a whole-home humidifier. 

Improved Respiratory Health

benefitHumidity in the air has a significant impact on respiratory health. A well-moisturized environment can lower the chances of respiratory difficulties such as dry throat, nosebleeds, and asthma. Respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies, and sinus infections can be exacerbated by dry air. 

Humidifiers work to add moisture back into the air, making the air easier to breathe and reducing the risk of respiratory problems. They can be used in the home to help alleviate symptoms caused by dry air. This is especially important during winter when indoor heating can increase the dryness in the air. Humidifiers help to maintain a comfortable and moisturized atmosphere, supporting good respiratory health.

Moisturizing Effects on Skin From Humidifiers

Dry air can also negatively affect the skin, leading to dryness, itching, and irritation. This can be exacerbated by indoor heating during the winter months. Some of the negative effects of not having a humidifier to add moisture to the air include the following:

  • Dry, flaky, and itchy skin
  • Increased risk of skin infections and irritations
  • Wrinkles and fine lines appear more prominent
  • Loss of skin elasticity and hydration
  • Increased skin sensitivity and irritation from environmental factors
  • Dull and lifeless-looking skin

Adding moisture to the air with a central humidifier helps to reduce these negative effects and promotes healthy, hydrated skin. Humidity can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing dryness and promoting a more youthful, glowing appearance.

Nurture Indoor Greenery

plantIndoor plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but also help improve indoor air quality and purify the air in a home by removing toxins and pollutants from the air. However, for plants to thrive, they need moisture in the air. Dry air can cause plants to wilt, dry, and eventually die. 

Humidifiers provide a solution to this problem by increasing the moisture levels in the air, allowing indoor plants to receive the hydration they need to grow and flourish. This extra humidity also helps protect them from diseases caused by dry air. So, if homeowners want to keep their indoor plants healthy, consider investing in a humidifier! It’s the perfect way to help protect houseplants and give them the environment they need to thrive.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has more than 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, residents and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and financing. Call them today for humidifier services in Tyler, TX.

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How to Get Tax Credits and Rebates Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022

What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Homeowners 

If homeowners are looking for a way to reduce costs while also boosting their home’s value, then the Inflation Reduction Act may be precisely what they need. The new legislation encourages homeowners to make energy-efficient upgrades by providing tax deductions and other incentives that offset some initial costs associated with these improvements. By taking advantage of these opportunities, buyers can save money on their utility bills over time, increase the resale value of their homes, and reduce their overall impact on the environment. Keep reading to learn more about how the Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes energy-efficient upgrades!

About the Inflation Reduction Act inflation

The Inflation Reduction Act is a federal law to help reduce inflation in the United States. The act offers tax credits and rebates on new energy-efficient air conditioners, heaters, and heat pumps. These incentive programs are designed to encourage consumers to purchase more energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment, which can reduce monthly energy bills and help the environment. The amount of credits or rebates available is based on the efficiency rating of the equipment purchased. This law: 

  • Intends to make home improvements more affordable for low- and middle-income households 
  • Offsets the cost of new appliances and various in-home improvements 
  • Aims to reduce homeowner’s overall carbon footprint 

By investing in energy-saving appliances, homeowners can save money and make their homes more comfortable.

How to Qualify for the Inflation Reduction Act’s Incentives? 

For those looking to take advantage of the incentives, it is essential to note that for an HVAC system or heat pump to qualify, it must meet specific energy efficiency requirements. These requirements vary based on the type of HVAC system or heat pump that is being installed. For example, an air-source heat pump must have a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of at least 14.5 and an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of at least 12.5. 

It is also important to note that these requirements only apply to installations starting in 2023, as the tax credits and rebates associated with this act are not retroactive. Therefore, anyone looking to take advantage of these tax credits and rebates should ensure they meet the appropriate efficiency requirements before purchasing or beginning any installation process. 

With the significant extension and expansion of the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C), qualified households can deduct up to 30% of the costs for buying and installing a qualified heat pump, with a maximum deduction of $2,000 annually by achieving the recommended efficiency ratings.  Additionally, they may be eligible to receive additional rebates or incentives from their state or local government. Therefore, it is important that households do their research and understand the efficiency requirements associated with their HVAC system and heat pumps so they can take full advantage of the incentives.

Benefits of Investing in a New HVAC System or Heat Pump

saveInstalling a new HVAC system or heat pump can help homeowners save money in more ways than one. The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits and rebates for installing energy-efficient systems. This means that homeowners will not only get a break from Uncle Sam but also save money on their energy bills long-term. That’s because these efficient systems require less energy to run, so they’ll benefit from less wasted energy and lower costs. Additionally, with a new system, homeowners can decrease the chances of expensive repairs or replacements down the road. So when looking for ways to save, installing a new HVAC system or heat pump is worth considering.  

In addition to the potential financial savings, homeowners will enjoy improved air quality in their homes with an upgraded system. A modern HVAC unit can help reduce allergens and pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander swirling around a house. Homeowners will also experience better air circulation and temperature control, making it easier to keep the home comfortable all year round. Investing in a new HVAC system or heat pump can help save money while enjoying improved air quality and comfort.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning 

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of expertise serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour service, and the latest technology. Call them today for AC, heater, or heat pump installations in Tyler, TX.

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Warning Signs You Need New Air Ducts

How to Know When It’s Time for Air Duct Repair or Replacement

Air ducts are an important part of a central HVAC system. These heating and cooling systems rely on air ducts to evenly distribute the air around the house. However, air ducts can make the home’s heating and cooling system less efficient and even lead to breakdowns if they are damaged. Routine ductwork cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in improving the longevity of the ducts and overall HVAC system. 

This blog post shares signs that indicate it’s time for air duct repair or replacement. Homeowners should be on the lookout for warning signs of faulty air ducts because fixing small problems early on can help to prevent a total system failure. Having clean air ducts also helps to promote good indoor air quality and lowers energy bills. 

Warning Signs of Damaged Air Ductssmell

Common warning signs of damaged air ducts include:

  • Moldy or musty smells 
  • Inconsistent temperatures 
  • Increase in energy bills 
  • Dust in the air 
  • Loud air ducts 

Damaged air ducts may make a lot of strange noises as the air moves through them. Banging around in the walls from faulty air ducts is one of the first warning signs that prompt homeowners to call a professional for help. Homeowners may also notice a sudden increase in energy bills due to a damaged or leaky air duct. 

Leaky air ducts can result in heat loss that drives up energy bills. Monitoring energy usage can help homeowners to pinpoint potential problems. Poor indoor air quality can also be a result of dust and other contaminants in the air ducts recirculating. Too much moisture in the ductwork can even cause mold and mildew to grow. 

Pros of Air Duct Replacement save

Benefits of installing new air ducts include: 

  • Improved airflow 
  • Lower energy bills
  • Better indoor air quality 
  • Better HVAC performance
  • Quieter performance

There are a lot of benefits to replacing air ducts. Homeowners may want to upgrade to a better quality air duct system to improve the efficiency of their heating and cooling system. New air ducts can also help to keep indoor air quality healthy and prevent allergy attacks. The performance of the HVAC unit can be overall improved by replacing the air ducts. 

Homeowners who are tired of noisy old air ducts banging around in the walls will enjoy the quieter performance of newly installed ductwork. Homeowners will also like spending less on their monthly utility bills after upgrading to new ductwork. With more efficient heating and cooling also comes lower electricity bills. New ductwork makes it easier for the HVAC to temperature-regulate the household as well. 

Air Duct Repair Methods

In some cases, a professional may be able to repair the air ducts rather than have to replace them. There are a few different methods that professional HVAC technicians can use to fix leaky air ducts. One common method for fixing leaking air ducts is to add duct sealing tape over the leaks. This is a special type of aluminum tape that should not be mistaken for common duct tape. It is designed to be safely used as a sealant for HVAC ductwork. 

There is also another kind of sealant that can be painted on or applied with a caulk gun. When the substance dries, it seals up any leaks. Mastic sealant for air ducts is an effective method for repairing leaks. The best way for homeowners to find out which air duct repair method is best for them is by calling a trusted local HVAC company for an inspection. 

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour service, and the latest technology. Call them today for air duct cleaning and repair services in Tyler, TX.

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Top Reasons to Be Thankful for HVAC Contractors This Month

Valuable Services From Heating and Cooling Experts

The whole point of Thanksgiving Day is to take a moment to be grateful. Sometimes it takes inspiration to start thinking of positive things, but after a bit of meditation, it can be easy to recognize all of the great things life offers. 

This year, as temperatures drop, get a little help from heating and cooling experts to kick-start the feeling of gratefulness. These experts work all year long to ensure families have a safe and comfortable place to stay and safe air to breathe. Here are some specific reasons folks should be grateful for HVAC technicians this Thanksgiving. 

Keeping the House Warm in the Winterwinter

The Thanksgiving season is the perfect time for folks to reflect on their gratitude for HVAC contractors. Thanksgiving coincides with a dramatic seasonal shift that brings weather changes. With these weather changes comes frigid weather that can threaten the comfort and safety of the home. Without a working heater or furnace, families would have no choice but to be dangerously cold over the winter. 

HVAC technicians deserve gratitude because they use their expertise to keep heaters working safely and efficiently when installing, repairing, and maintaining heating systems. Maintenance from a licensed professional bestows benefits like:

  • Reduced likelihood of mechanical problems over the winter
  • Lower monthly energy bills
  • Longer-lived heating equipment
  • Better comfort through the winter

 

Keeping the Home Cool in the Summer 

summerThe second time of year that homeowners should be especially grateful for HVAC contractors is the summer. It’s no secret that local summers are brutal, with temperatures routinely reaching dangerous levels. As summers get hotter, HVAC contractors’ work will continue to be more and more important. The only way to beat the heat is with a functioning air conditioner ready for the season and HVAC technicians that know how to keep it running. 

To keep the air conditioner running safely and efficiently during the summer, homeowners should trust professionals to do installations, repairs, and maintenance. Partnering with a reliable contractor means that homeowners are never left without help when their air conditioner fails. All it takes is one scare during the summer to truly appreciate the work that heating and cooling companies do. 

Improving Indoor Air Quality 

It’s common knowledge that indoor air is typically more polluted than outdoor air. This is because indoor air never gets refreshed. It is just continually recycled by the HVAC system in a home. As it recirculates, it picks up dust, allergens, and pathogens that can harm the health of those who live in the house. 

One of the most valuable services offered by HVAC contractors is to improve the indoor air quality in a home. They can do this by providing services like:

  • HVAC maintenance
  • Air filter changes
  • Installing a type of air cleaner
  • Installing a dehumidifier or humidifier
  • Air duct cleaning

Without these valuable services, indoor air pollution would significantly contribute to respiratory problems and poor general health. Instead, HVAC contractors can take steps to improve a home’s indoor air quality and keep families safe and comfortable. 

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and the latest technology. Call them today for indoor air quality, AC, or heating services in Tyler, TX.

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Is it a Haunted House or an AC in Need of Repairs?

Common Signs of a Faulty Air Conditioner 

Most of the time, the air conditioning system will alert homeowners to a problem before it fails completely. When the problem is fixed early on with the aid of professionals, homeowners will save money and avoid the future irritation of a complete system breakdown.

Homeowners should be aware of signs that an air conditioner requires repairs to return to good working order. Continue reading for some warning signs to look out for that indicate the AC may be broken.

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises

soundsIf homeowners hear unusual noises coming from the air conditioning system, that indicates something is wrong, and they should call a professional. Loose screws can cause many rattling sounds. The interior and exterior units vibrate when an air conditioner is switched on. This vibration might cause the screws to become loose over time.

A noise from the AC that sounds like violent hammering is most likely a condenser problem, although this is not always the case. Sticks, leaves, and other dirt particles can become lodged in the condenser and generate this noise. If bushes surround the exterior unit, small leaves and twigs might become lodged if homeowners fail to clean the condenser for an extended period.

Thermostat Issues

thermostatIf homeowners have thermostat problems, they may be dealing with a thermostat that doesn’t achieve the right temperature. This might be due to broken or damaged sensors, poor thermostat location, or even dirty equipment.

Multiple sensors are needed for thermostats to function appropriately. One or more of these sensors may be faulty or damaged if the thermostat fails to attain the right temperature. As a result of this problem, the temperature readout may be higher or lower than where it was set. Unfortunately, repairing a broken sensor is a difficult task. In most cases, the entire thermostat is replaced. If homeowners feel they have a broken or damaged thermostat sensor, they should contact an HVAC technician immediately before additional damage occurs to the system.

The position of the thermostat might potentially cause temperature reading problems. If the thermostat is located near a fireplace, the temperature readout may be higher than the rest of the house. The same is true for thermostats installed in chilly areas. The thermostat reading may be far lower than the rest of the property.

Dirty parts may also cause thermostat problems. Dust, dirt, and lint particles can accumulate within the device over time, potentially blocking sensors or creating other issues. This can also lead to inaccurate temperature measurements.

Fluctuating Cooling is a Sign

Uneven cooling can be caused by various problems with a home’s air conditioner or air ducts. Suppose homeowners have difficulty controlling the temperatures in their rooms while the air conditioning system is running. In that case, one of the following scenarios may apply and should be addressed ASAP:

  • Leaks in the air ducts
  • Poor attic insulation
  • Dirty air filters
  • Aging AC equipment

Homeowners should immediately call a professional for assistance if any of these signs are noticed and air conditioner issues are suspected. They can inspect the AC and fix any problems before they get out of hand or cause a system breakdown.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over two decades of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour service, and a membership plan with many benefits. Call them today for air conditioning repairs in Tyler, TX.

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Why Should You Get a Dehumidifier?

What Is Humidity?

Humidity is essentially the measure of water vapor in the air. Most commonly referred to as relative humidity, this measure is generally expressed as a percentage, with 100% being the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold at a given temperature. Beyond that maximum limit, the vapor condenses into liquid. 

Warmer air can hold more water vapor than cold air, hence why it’s called “relative” humidity. 50% humidity will feel a lot muggier on a hot summer day than on a frigid winter morning because the actual amount of vapor in the air is higher in hotter weather.

The ideal indoor humidity level is between 30-60%. Going above or below can have negative effects on the home and the health of everyone in it. For example, excessive humidity can lead to mold growth, the propagation of bacteria, and warped or rotted wood. So it benefits homeowners to understand and manage their home’s humidity levels. That’s where a dehumidifier comes in.

What Do Dehumidifiers Do?

humidifierAs the name suggests, dehumidifiers remove water vapor from the air, lowering humidity levels. There are two main types of dehumidifiers – refrigerative dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers.

Refrigerative dehumidifiers draw air over metal coils filled with chemical refrigerant that cools the air. As the air cools, its relative humidity rises to 100% (since cold air can’t hold as much moisture), and the water vapor turns into condensation on the coils. The dry air is then heated to its former temperature by a second set of coils and blown back into the surrounding space. A home’s air conditioner does the same thing, except it doesn’t heat the air back up before blowing it into the house.

Desiccant dehumidifiers are less common but still quite effective. These blow air over a desiccant such as silica gel, which naturally absorbs moisture from the air without having to cool it. In both types of dehumidifiers, the captured moisture is typically drained into a basin that needs to be periodically emptied except for whole-home dehumidifiers, which are installed in tandem with the home’s HVAC system and feature a condensate drain line that releases the water outside.

How To Tell if the Home Needs a Dehumidifier

humidifierSome thermostats feature humidity sensors and display the home’s relative humidity directly on the thermostat face next to the temperature. However, this isn’t always the case. Homeowners may be flying blind when it comes to their indoor humidity. So here are a few common signs of excess humidity in the house:

  • Condensation on windows.
  • Damp carpet or upholstery.
  • Visible mold growth.
  • Musty smell or mildew odor.
  • Warped wood or drywall.
  • Bubbling paint or wallpaper.
  • Chips, crackers, or cookies get stale/soft days after opening.
  • Bread, fruit or other perishables get moldy or spoil faster than normal.

If homeowners notice any of these signs, it’s time to get a dehumidifier before the excess moisture causes further damage.

Benefits of a Dehumidifier

Whether a portable or whole-house model, a dehumidifier can be a game-changing addition to the home. Controlling indoor humidity levels with a dehumidifier can:

  • Improve indoor air quality by preventing harmful mold and bacteria growth and making the air easier to breathe.
  • Discourage pests such as dust mites and termites (which thrive in moist environments).
  • Protect the home and belongings from moisture damage. Hardwood floors, furniture, electronics, and musical instruments will last longer and remain in good condition with appropriate humidity levels.
  • Make the home more comfortable.
  • Help food last longer and keep its desired texture.
  • Prevent musty odors.

With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why a dehumidifier is a good idea in homes with high humidity. Homeowners who suspect they may need to reduce their home’s indoor moisture levels would do well to contact a trusted HVAC technician to determine what kind of dehumidifier is right for them!

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving the residents of Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, trustworthy technicians, and top-of-the-line customer service. Call them today for dehumidifier services in Tyler, TX.

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Kick Off the School Year with Some Air Duct Basics

Air Duct Cleaning

Air ducts are present in many homes with centralized air conditioning. These metal tunnels, usually located in the ceiling or walls, divert cool air to different parts of the house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that air ducts can last for years without major problems but advises cleaning them as needed to maintain the home’s indoor air quality.

To keep their HVAC systems running smoothly and indoor air quality ideal, homeowners should know some basic things about their air ducts and when to clean them.

Signs That It’s Time to Clean Those Air Ducts

bad smellsThe EPA notes that one doesn’t have to clean their home’s air ducts regularly but that homeowners should have them professionally cleaned on an “as needed” basis. Signs that it’s time to have the air ducts cleaned include:

  • Weak airflow: If air weakly blows through the home’s vents, this could point to debris in the air ducts themselves blocking airflow.
  • Rodent and bug infestations: Some critters can make their homes inside air ducts. Here, they can leave behind waste, eggs, and carcasses. Not only can these materials make the air unsafe to breathe, but they can also contribute to additional problems in the future.
  • Bad smells: If foul odors are coming from the air ducts, this could mean that mold or mildew is growing in the ducts.
  • It’s been a while since the last cleaning: If one can’t remember the last time they cleaned their air ducts, they should get on it by calling a professional.

These are just some signs that one should get their air ducts cleaned. Other signs, such as an unusually high power bill and excessive humidity, can also warrant a cleaning.

Three Benefits of Professional Air Duct Cleaning

energy savingsSome of the benefits of cleaning the home’s air ducts are:

  • Reducing allergens: Over time, dust, pollen, and dander can build up inside the home’s air ducts. This can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma, allergies, coughing, sneezing, and headaches. Clean ducts reduce the symptoms of these respiratory issues and help homeowners stay healthier.
  • Energy savings: Dirty air ducts cause the air conditioner to work “overtime.” This can lead to higher energy bills, so duct cleaning can help lower them again.
  • Less mold growth: Over time, mold can grow in air ducts. As noted, this can lead to a host of health complications. The mold can also spread to other parts of the home, causing drywall damage, for example. Cleaning the air ducts removes the mold and helps families breathe clean air again.

Homeowners Can Help Keep Their Air Ducts Clean

Homeowners can help keep their air ducts clean in between professional cleanings by:

  • Vacuuming regularly: Using an efficient vacuum can prevent dust and dander from building up inside the home’s air ducts.
  • Changing the AC’s air filter once a year: EnergyStar notes that homeowners should replace their AC units’ air filters at least every three months. Doing so allows the air conditioner to work properly and helps prevent dirt from building up inside the air ducts.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving the community of Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and trustworthy technicians. Call them today for air duct cleaning and repair in Tyler, TX.

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Air Conditioner Refrigerant FAQs

AC Refrigerant Explained

AC refrigerant is an important part of how air conditioning systems run. Homeowners should have a basic knowledge of what refrigerant is and how it works so they can better maintain their heating and air conditioning units. 

Refrigerant transforms between a gas and a liquid inside the air conditioner’s evaporator coils. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air that blows over the metal coils. As the refrigerant warms up, it turns from a gas back into a liquid. The compressor coils outside recirculate the refrigerant through the system. 

What Type of Refrigerant to Use?

fridgerantThere are multiple different types of refrigerants used in modern air conditioners. Refrigerants are not interchangeable, and using the wrong one could damage the air conditioner. Homeowners can check what kind of refrigerant their air conditioner uses by looking at the appliance sticker or user manual.

AC units that were made before 2010 likely use a refrigerant called R-22, or Freon. However, in 2010 Freon was recalled for its link to environmental damage. Homeowners still unsure of what kind of refrigerant their HVAC unit uses should consult with a trusted local technician. 

Why Does AC Refrigerant Leak?

hvacRefrigerant is a combination of chemicals used in air conditioners to change the temperature of the air. Problems with the air conditioner could create a refrigerant leak. There are multiple reasons why the refrigerant may begin to leak inside the air conditioner, such as rust, wear and tear, and pinholes in the coils. 

Airborne particles of air freshener, perfume, and aerosol sprays can make their way into the AC unit through the ventilation system. The acidic nature of the chemicals can create tiny pinholes in the coils where refrigerant leaks out. Corrosion of the metal coils from rust can also create a refrigerant leak. Coil cleaning as part of routine air conditioner maintenance will help prevent refrigerant leaks. 

When to Call a Professional for a Refrigerant Leak?

Homeowners should know the signs of a refrigerant leak so they can immediately reach out to a professional. When handled early, a refrigerant leak is an easy fix for an experienced HVAC technician. However, the refrigerant leak could lead to a complete system breakdown if left in disrepair. Refrigerant leaks can also cause a spike in utility bills.

Ice forming on the air conditioner and frozen coils are both signs of a refrigerant leak. Other symptoms include reduced cooling capabilities and strange noises coming from the air conditioner. The air conditioner might make hissing or gurgling noises as it struggles to function. Homeowners should contact a professional for help as soon as the first signs of a refrigerant leak are noticed. 

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving the community of Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and financing. Call them today for air conditioning services in Tyler, TX.

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A Quick Guide to HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

What Does HVAC Stand For?

  • Heating 
  • Ventilation
  • Air 
  • Conditioning

HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Heating and air conditioning refer to the temperature control of indoor spaces, and ventilation refers to the circulation of air through the home and indoor air quality. 

The HVAC industry has worked diligently to develop the efficient HVAC units found in modern homes. Heating, cooling, and ventilation are important parts of maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. In this blog post, HVAC experts share the basics that homeowners should know about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. 

How Does an HVAC System Work?

Homeowners should have a basic overview of how their HVAC system works. Most modern homes use a central air system, which distributes air to each room in the house through ductwork. HVAC systems include furnaces for heating and air conditioners for cooling the home. 

Modern home furnaces burn oil, gas, or propane to produce heat. Some heating systems use electricity or geothermal transfer to heat the home. Heat pump systems are extremely efficient for homes in moderate climates.

Ventilation is the part of the HVAC system that pushes the air throughout the home. The ventilation system includes components such as fans, vents, air filters, and ductwork. Ventilation is important for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and distributing air. 

Important Parts of the HVAC Systemcoil

  • Thermostat
  • Ductwork
  • Evaporator coil
  • Heat pump 
  • Furnace 
  • Air Filters

The thermostat controls the overall function of the HVAC system by turning on the heating or cooling to maintain the desired temperature. The furnace and air conditioner connect to ductwork that distributes the air through vents at the thermostat’s command. 

Most homes have both an indoor and outdoor component to their HVAC system. Air conditioners use evaporator coils containing refrigerant to cool the air, and then the heat and moisture are released via the outdoor unit. 

The ventilation of the HVAC system would not be complete without an air filter. An air filter is a mesh screen placed over the HVAC unit’s air intake to keep debris such as dust, dirt, and pet hair from getting sucked into the unit. Air filters are essential for protecting the indoor air quality inside the home. They should be replaced around every three months or more frequently, depending on the filter type or if allergy sufferers live in the house. 

filter

What Is HVAC Maintenance?

One of the best things homeowners can do for their HVAC systems is schedule routine HVAC maintenance with a qualified expert. Homeowners should always have a trusted local HVAC company a phone call away in case of an HVAC emergency. 

HVAC maintenance appointments include cleaning the air conditioning coils, changing the air filters, cleaning the inside of the unit, and checking for broken parts. During maintenance appointments, the technician will have a chance to fix small problems early before they get out of hand. 

Most HVAC maintenance should be left up to a qualified HVAC technician, but homeowners can change their air filters themselves. Changing an air filter at homet can take less than ten minutes. Changing the air filter on time can improve the performance and longevity of the HVAC system.  

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving its neighbors in Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, financing, and a membership that includes perks like discounts and routine maintenance on heating and air conditioning units. Call them today for heating or air conditioning services in Tyler, TX

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How To Find a Reliable AC Repair Company

Three Things To Know About Finding Quality Home Improvement Help 

When homeowners type in “AC service near me,” they’re faced with hundreds of options claiming to deliver quality service. But how does one find the right skilled professionals for the job? It’s all about doing research, asking around, and scheduling appointments sooner rather than later. 

Hiring the wrong person for the job can mean wasted money, time, and effort. However, by keeping the following three things in mind, one can find a professional AC service company in no time. 

Leave Certain Tasks to Professionals

Unless homeowners have an in-depth knowledge of how air conditioning units work, they shouldn’t attempt any repairs or certain maintenance tasks on their own. Even if they’ve watched dozens of DIY YouTube videos, a small mistake could jeopardize the entire system. 

That’s why certain jobs should be left to the professionals. A skilled technician will have access to: 

  • Specialized tools, such as leak detecting devices 
  • A network of consultants they can call on 
  • Lessons learned through years of experience and training

When vetting an air conditioning company, homeowners should look for the certifications, licenses, and insurance information on their website. These things can provide important information that can help make an informed decision. 

Do Some Research Online reviews

It’s the 21st century, so there is no longer a need to flip through a newspaper for AC service recommendations. Instead, whip out a phone and turn to Google. However, Google Reviews isn’t the only way to find reviews of home improvement services. To get a comprehensive look at what an AC company has to offer, homeowners should peruse: 

  • Yelp: Yelp is one of the oldest review websites out there. If an AC company is listed on Yelp, it has tons of reviews. Whether they’re positive or negative is a different story. 
  • Angi: Angi (formerly known as “Angie’s List”) provides comprehensive reviews about big and small businesses. 
  • The Better Business Bureau (BBB): Founded in 1912, the BBB has one goal: to protect consumers from unscrupulous companies. A company’s BBB profile will likely include how long the company’s been in business, whether anyone has filed a formal complaint, and whether any complaints have been resolved. 
  • Social media: Social media is a treasure trove when looking for reliable services. Facebook, Instagram, and NextDoor all offer unique insights from users in the area. 

Word-of-mouth references should also be considered. One’s friends, family, and neighbors may offer helpful insight into which AC company can get the job done. 

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Schedule Appointments Sooner Rather than Later 

AC repair companies get very busy during the summer because people frequently find issues with their systems after using the AC due to the heat. Companies with solid reputations will likely get booked quickly based on their reputation alone. 

To ensure they get the best possible service, homeowners should make an appointment immediately after selecting an AC repair company. It’s good to schedule service now in the spring, allowing homeowners to relax knowing that their AC issues will be resolved in time for summer.  

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning 

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving the residents of Tyler, TX, and Smith County. They provide on-time service, straightforward pricing, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for air conditioning services in Tyler, TX.

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