An In-Depth Look into the Advantages of Ductless Mini-Splits

April 18, 2024

You may have heard about ductless mini-splits if you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system. They offer a distinct and unique cooling solution compared to traditional ducted central AC systems. However, even though they seem like a recent innovation, they actually have a long and successful history. Here is everything you need to know about ductless mini splits and all of the advantages they offer compared to other AC systems. A Brief History of Mini-Splits The first ductless mini-split went on the market back in 1959. Designed in Japan by Mitsubishi, it was a product of the unique needs of citizens there in the post-war period. In Japan’s big cities, space was tight, and walls were thin. Innovators realized that homeowners and apartment dwellers needed an efficient type of AC that was simultaneously efficient, small, and quiet. As a result, Mitsubishi looked for a way to create an AC that didn’t require bulky and extensive in-wall ductwork since nobody had the room for that. What they came up with was an AC system that combined a slim, wall-mountable outdoor compressor unit that served one or more wall-mounted indoor air handlers. The small size of the outdoor units...

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7 Reasons Why Burbank Homeowners are Getting Home Energy Audits

March 1, 2024

More and more homeowners in Burbank are prioritizing energy audits and with good reason. Also known as a home energy assessment, an energy audit involves a complete evaluation of your energy usage and identifies any issues affecting your home’s energy performance. Following the recommendations provided after a professional energy audit allows homeowners all across the region to enjoy several benefits. To maximize these benefits, savvy homeowners get their homes assessed every two to three years or after completing any major home projects. A DIY audit may not be as thorough as a professional home energy assessment. When you attempt to conduct a DIY energy evaluation, you risk missing some energy-saving opportunities due to a lack of expertise and specialized equipment. 1. Save on Utility Bills Energy inefficiencies can cost you a lot of money every year. A professional energy audit will not only reveal these inefficiencies but also provide a roadmap with targeted recommendations for improvement. Every improvement has the potential to reduce your utility bills significantly, so it is best for your wallet if you implement all the recommendations. From upgrading your home’s insulation to sealing air leaks, implementing audit recommendations will help optimize your energy use and avoid...

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Complete Guide to Maximizing Winter HVAC Efficiency

January 3, 2024

Before the full brunt of winter hits, you need to be sure that your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is operating to the best of its ability. An inefficient system leads to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear on your system’s components. By taking a few preventative steps now, you can optimize performance, reduce costs, and extend the lifespan of your system. This article outlines key maintenance tips, ideal thermostat settings, and reasons to connect with a professional HVAC company as colder weather settles in. Unique HVAC Challenges to California Residents While the Golden State may not experience bone-chilling winters like some of our northern neighbors, California homeowners have their own set of HVAC challenges to tackle. The mild climate creates a different dynamic, influencing how HVAC systems operate. Infrequent Use and Dust Accumulation: California’s moderate temperatures mean you don’t always rely heavily on our HVAC systems, especially during the winter. However, this infrequent use can lead to unexpected challenges. Dust, the silent culprit, tends to accumulate in unused systems, affecting their efficiency when we finally do need them. Sudden Temperature Drops: The occasional warm, sunny day turns into a chilly evening, catching us off guard. The...

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Is a Burning Smell Normal When I Turn on the Heat?

November 1, 2023

If you have recently turned on the heat and noticed a burning smell, it can be quite alarming. It does not necessarily mean that something is going wrong with your system, particularly if it hasn’t been turned on for a while. In instances like this, such a thing happening is actually pretty normal and is often not a cause for concern. There are times, however, when it could be an indicator of a real problem, so it’s important to know when it is time to relax and when it is time to shut down your system and call in a professional. When Not to Worry About a Burning Smell If your heater has not been turned on for a while, it is likely that dust and other particles have accumulated on the heat exchanger, burners, or other components. When you turn the heater on for the first time in months, the smell is likely these particles burning off. This smell is then carried through the air vents until it is all burned away. Let the heater run for about 10 minutes, and the smell will likely dissipate. If it does not go away, then it is time to call a...

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10 AC Problems You Must Know

October 2, 2023

Air conditioners keep us cool when the mercury is soaring, but even new air conditioners will eventually develop a problem. Whether your AC is struggling in the heat or not putting out cold air at all, your first concern is likely how to get that temperature back into a comfortable range fast. Our guide will help you learn the top 10 AC problems you need to understand to keep that cool air flowing again. 1. AC Won’t Turn on If your AC won’t turn on, you might panic, but an air conditioner that fails to cycle on doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re facing expensive repairs. First, check that your unit has power and is switched to the “on” position. Check the circuit breaker on both the indoor and outdoor units to be sure it hasn’t been flipped. Finally, check the thermostat to verify that the system is both turned on and set to cool. This is also a good time to check the air filter. A clogged AC filter won’t necessarily stop the AC from switching on, but it will certainly keep it from cooling effectively. Many things can interfere with your AC’s ability to cycle on, so if you’ve...

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What Temperature Should Your Thermostat Be Set To?

September 21, 2023

Certain factors influence at what temperature you set your thermostat, but it’s primarily a matter of personal preference. Setting it too high or low could not only impact your comfort but also your energy bills and HVAC system. The following is information helpful for deciding what to set your thermostat to at your California home. Best Thermostat Temperature for Summer and Winter It’s typically best to set your thermostat to 68 degrees in the winter and approximately 78 degrees during the warmer months. This will prevent your heating system or AC from coming on too frequently and running for shorter periods. It will also help keep your heating and cooling costs low while reducing the wear and tear your HVAC system experiences. Setting your thermostat to a much higher temperature in the winter or significantly lower in the summer will strain your HVAC system. This added strain can possibly shorten the life span of your furnace and AC or cause the unit to require more frequent repairs. It will also undoubtedly raise your energy bills. Programming Your Thermostat for Day and Night It is important to note that these recommended temperature settings are for the times when you’re awake and...

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6 Major Reasons Why Your AC Is Blowing Warm Air

June 1, 2023

All air conditioners are designed to provide a cool and comfortable living environment inside your home. One of the worst feelings you can experience as a homeowner is walking into your home during a hot summer day to cool off, only to discover that your AC is blowing warm air. Not only will you likely experience stress when your AC fails to keep you cool, but HVAC technicians are busiest during the peak season. To help avoid these problems, you should set up an appointment to have your AC unit serviced regularly. Here are some of the top reasons your AC could blow warm air. 1. Thermostat Settings One of the first things you should check when you notice warm air coming from the vents is your thermostat settings. Thermostat problems usually occur in old dial-type units when they are incorrectly calibrated. If you have the manufacturer’s manual, check that your current thermostat settings are correct. You might also want to check that you did not accidentally flip your thermostat to heat mode, a mistake that frequently goes unnoticed. If that does not resolve the problem, you may want to have your thermostat recalibrated or replaced. You can also consider...

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What Happens During an HVAC Installation?

May 2, 2023

Always leave HVAC installation in the hands of a professional. The time it takes to install the new heating and cooling unit depends on the system’s dimensions and complexity. Some installations take as little as a day, while others may take several days, especially when installing multiple units in larger homes. Read on to explore what to do before an HVAC installation, what to expect on the day of installation, and what will happen after the installation is complete. Before Installation: Inspection of the Installation Site Several days or weeks before you get a new HVAC system installed, a licensed technician will inspect your existing system and perform an on-site evaluation. This allows the technician to decide which tools to bring to the job and whether there’s a need for any remodeling. During the on-site visit, the technician will also check if any nearby trees or shrubs present a problem for the outside unit. If so, the technician will recommend removing them. Before Installation: Homeowner Preparation As the homeowner, you can prepare for installation day in several ways. First, make plans to be away from home on the day of installation. This includes pets, as well. Secondly, move furniture away...

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How Much Does a New HVAC System Cost?

March 14, 2023

An HVAC system is one of the most significant expenditures associated with owning a home, regardless of whether you’re installing one in a new construction or replacing an existing one. As you plan for your new system, it’s helpful to know how much you should expect to spend on installing the system. Unfortunately, HVAC systems have a variety of variables that influence the final price. Consider these factors that will affect how much you’ll pay for a new HVAC system. New Construction Versus Replacement The first thing to consider is whether you’re installing a system in a new construction or replacing an existing system. With new construction, you may also have to install ductwork for a central heating and cooling system. You may not need to replace the ducting every time you install a new part of your system, significantly reducing the overall costs. According to HomeAdvisor, the average range to replace an existing HVAC system is $5,000 to $10,000. For new construction homes, you’ll add the cost of duct installation, which can range from about $4,000 to as much as $12,000 depending on the size of your home and the kind of system you’re installing. HVAC System Type Next,...

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How Ceiling Fans Impact Airflow in the Home

February 16, 2023

If you’ve ever endured a sweltering summer day, you understand the benefits of having a ceiling fan. However, you might be surprised to learn that it doesn’t actually generate cold air. It doesn’t function like an air conditioner. Instead, it cools down your home by creating a windchill effect through its circulating air, something that can also be reversed in the wintertime to distribute heated air and warm you up. Long story short, a ceiling fan can be a useful, multipurpose tool for all seasons. Let’s dive into how it actually works and how you can best utilize it for both temperature control and premium air quality. The Parts of a Ceiling Fan Ceiling fans are made of more than just blades. In fact, the full anatomy of a ceiling fan looks something like this: Mounting mechanism Downrod Canopy Motor Brackets or “arms” Blades Light fixture The motor is the most complex part of the ceiling fan. However, all parts work in tandem to support the fan’s function. For example, the brackets of the blades connect them to the motor, and the motor determines the blades’ speed and direction. How Ceiling Fans Work It isn’t difficult to understand the science...

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