Sep 17, 2018 | Blog
If you’ve been having trouble with your air conditioner recently, you may be wondering just how long your unit is supposed to last. The exact answer depends on the type of system you have in your Austell, Georgia, home and how well it was maintained. Keep reading to learn about the factors that affect an air conditioner’s lifespan and signs that your AC may be getting too old.
The Average AC Lifespan
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, today’s central air conditioning systems last an average of 15 to 20 years. Keep in mind, though, that this is an average — which means some units fail before 15 years, while others last several years past 20.
Factors That Affect Longevity
How long your specific central air conditioner system lasts depends on several factors. For instance:
- How often it runs and how hard it works
- Whether it is the correct size for your home
- Whether it was properly installed with adequate space
- How well the system is maintained
- How often the air filter is changed
If your system is working overtime to compensate for its small size, poor maintenance, improper installation, or other issues, it will wear out more quickly than it otherwise would.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs to be Replaced
You don’t have to replace your air conditioner just because it is getting old. However, if you are paying for at least one major repair each year, you may be better off installing a new system. A new system will also be more energy efficient, saving you money on your electric bill.
Specific signs that your air conditioner may be close to failure include the following:
- Noisy operation
- Unusual smells
- Humid indoor air
- Frequent breakdowns
- Constant running
- Higher bills
- Poor performance
Have you noticed any of these red flags recently? Give E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 678-369-8866. One of our expert technicians can take a look at your air conditioning system and let you know whether it needs a repair or a full replacement. We also offer maintenance services to keep your AC unit in peak operating condition.
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Aug 18, 2018 | Blog
Keeping your Marietta, Georgia, home cool in hot summer weather is a challenge, and the season often comes with high utility bills. When it’s too hot, you can have trouble sleeping, working, or enjoying time with your family. You can improve your summer comfort by adding ceiling fans, using a dehumidifier, and checking your insulation.
Adding Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans in your living room and your bedrooms will create cooling breezes and may even help you avoid using your air conditioner. You can also reduce wear and tear, avert expensive HVAC problems, and extend your system’s life. Save even more energy by turning off fans in unoccupied rooms. Ceiling fans come in a variety of colors and styles, and most include a ceiling light.
Using a Dehumidifier
A portable dehumidifier is inexpensive, compact, and quiet. There are also whole-home models installed in-line with your HVAC system. Use a dehumidifier to remove some of the moisture in your home’s air, which makes you feel cooler because it helps your sweat evaporate more quickly. Like ceiling fans, dehumidifiers conserve energy by letting you use your air conditioner less. They also prevent musty smells and allergy symptoms by reducing biological growth.
Checking Your Insulation
If some rooms tend to feel warmer than others or your air conditioner struggles to keep your entire home cool, you could need more insulation. To find leaks in your insulation, turn off your air conditioner and hold a candle near your doors and windows. The light will flicker near drafts, letting you know if this is a problem. Then you can contact a professional to fix it. You can also add weather stripping or caulk around your windows, doors, and electrical outlets.
E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, and we work hard for our customers. We can help you and your family save money on air conditioning and stay comfortable in summer. Call us at 678-369-8866 for outstanding service from our experienced, friendly technicians.
Image provided by Shutterstock
Jul 16, 2018 | Blog
Pet dander can wreak havoc on your Marietta, Georgia, home – especially if you have family members or guests that suffer from pet allergies. While you may love your furry friend, you would likely happily part with the dander that they produce. If you are looking to reduce the overall pet dander in your home, and help you and your loved ones breathe a little easier, try the following tips below.
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Jun 15, 2018 | Blog
NATE certification is a professional designation in the HVAC industry. It stands for North American Technician Excellence. The certification ensures a level of professional standards in the HVAC industry so that consumers receive quality work from the technicians they hire. Here in the Marietta, Georgia area, you can call us for service from NATE-certified technicians. Here are three reasons why having NATE-certified HVAC technicians is important.
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May 21, 2018 | Blog
As the spring nears its end in Holly Springs, Georgia, you may notice your cooling bills starting to creep up. Keeping air conditioning bills low when it’s warm and humid outside can feel impossible, but these tips make it easier. Use these helpful hints to control your bills and enjoy the spring even more.
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Apr 16, 2018 | Blog
Did you know that HVAC systems operate better with annual maintenance check-ups? Annual HVAC maintenance cannot be overlooked if you want greater energy efficiency, lower monthly bills, and a longer-lasting HVAC system. Thankfully, if you live in Georgia, with one call you can have a professional team of HVAC technicians visit your home for routine inspections and maintenance.
If you’re still wondering if HVAC maintenance is really necessary, here are a few reasons why it is so important.
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