Budget Heating and Air Conditioning Blog

Imagine this: It’s a sweltering August day in Morristown, TN, and you’re basking in the warmth of your living room, hoping to escape the oppressive heat outside. You’ve got the air conditioning running, but instead of a refreshing breeze, you’re met with warm, stagnant air. As the temperature rises, so does your frustration. Why is your AC struggling, and what can you do to get it back to its cool, efficient self?

Understanding why your AC might be having trouble during these peak summer months is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore the common reasons behind an underperforming air conditioner and provide practical solutions to ensure you stay comfortable all summer long.

Common Reasons Why Your AC Struggles in August

As the mercury climbs in August, your air conditioner is put to the ultimate test. Understanding why your AC might be struggling during this peak summer period is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. In this section, we’ll delve into some of the most common issues that can impact your system’s performance, from increased heat load to potential equipment problems. By identifying these factors, you can take proactive steps to ensure your AC stays cool and efficient throughout the sweltering summer months.

Increased Heat Load

One of the most significant factors affecting your AC’s performance in August is the increased heat load. As temperatures soar, your air conditioner has to work harder to maintain a cool indoor environment. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, during peak summer months, the heat load on your AC system can increase by up to 50% compared to milder weather. This added stress can strain your system and reduce its efficiency.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters play a crucial role in your AC’s efficiency. When they become clogged with dust and debris, airflow is restricted, forcing your unit to work harder to circulate air. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends checking and replacing your air filters every 1-3 months, especially during high-use periods like August. A clean filter can improve your AC’s efficiency by up to 15%.

Refrigerant Issues

Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home, and any issues with it can significantly impact your AC’s performance. Low refrigerant levels, often due to leaks, can cause your system to underperform. A refrigerant leak can reduce cooling efficiency by 5-10% for every pound of refrigerant lost. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, it’s important to contact a professional for diagnosis and repair.

Inadequate Insulation

Proper insulation is vital for maintaining a cool indoor environment. Inadequate insulation can lead to significant heat gain, causing your AC to work harder to keep your home cool. Proper insulation can reduce cooling costs by 20-30%. If your home isn’t properly insulated, it might be time to consider an upgrade.

Aging Equipment

Like any mechanical system, air conditioners have a finite lifespan. As your unit ages, its efficiency can decrease, leading to higher energy bills and reduced performance. The average lifespan of an AC unit is around 15-20 years. If your system is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time to consider a replacement or major repairs.

What You Can Do to Improve Your AC’s Performance

To keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently, it’s essential to take proactive steps that address common issues and enhance overall performance. Whether it’s through regular maintenance, optimizing thermostat settings, sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation, or considering a system upgrade, there are several effective strategies you can implement. By understanding and applying these measures, you can ensure your AC remains reliable and efficient, providing you with a cool and comfortable environment even during the hottest months.

Regular Maintenance

One of the best ways to ensure your AC runs smoothly is through regular maintenance. This includes tasks such as cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting ductwork for leaks. It’s recommended to schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to keep your system in top shape.

Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Adjusting your thermostat settings can help reduce the strain on your AC. Setting your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away from home or using a programmable thermostat can save energy and reduce wear and tear on your unit. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake, and 85°F when you’re away.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks in your home can undermine your AC’s efficiency by allowing cool air to escape and warm air to enter. Inspect your home for gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork, and seal any leaks with weatherstripping or caulk. Proper sealing can improve your AC’s efficiency by up to 10%.

Upgrade Insulation

If you suspect that inadequate insulation is contributing to your AC’s struggles, consider upgrading your insulation. Adding insulation to your attic, walls, and floors can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce the workload on your air conditioner.

Consider a System Upgrade

If your AC is older or consistently underperforming, it may be time to consider a system upgrade. Modern air conditioners are more energy-efficient and can provide better cooling performance.

For AC Service in Morristown, TN, Contact Budget Heating and Air Conditioning Today

Keeping your air conditioner in top shape during the hot August months in Morristown, TN, is essential for maintaining comfort and efficiency. By understanding common issues and taking proactive steps, you can ensure your AC performs at its best.

If you’re experiencing problems with your AC or need a professional tune-up, don’t hesitate to reach out to Budget Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team of experts is here to help with all your HVAC needs, from routine maintenance to system upgrades. Contact us today to schedule your service and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home all summer long.

It’s a sweltering July afternoon in Dandridge, Tennessee. As the temperature climbs past 90°F, you retreat indoors, expecting relief from your trusty ductless air conditioning system. But something’s not right. The air feels stuffy, and your usually quiet AC is making strange noises.

You begin to wonder: Is it time for a repair?

Luckily, we can help. Check out these top signs that you need ductless AC repair.

1. Lower Performance

One of the most noticeable signs that your ductless AC system needs repair is a drop in performance. If your once-efficient cooling system is struggling to maintain the desired temperature, it’s a clear indication that something is amiss.

A reduction in cooling performance can manifest in various ways, including longer cooling cycles, uneven temperatures across different rooms, or the unit failing to reach the set thermostat level altogether.

If you’re worried about AC performance, invest in maintenance to prevent ductless mini-split issues before the summer months hit.

2. Ice Buildup

While it might seem counterintuitive for ice to form on an appliance designed to cool your home, this issue is relatively common and can indicate several underlying problems. Ice can accumulate on both the indoor and outdoor units, impairing the system’s ability to function correctly.

One of the primary causes of ice buildup is restricted airflow. When the air filters or coils become dirty or clogged, air cannot circulate properly through the system. This lack of airflow causes the evaporator coil to drop below freezing, leading to ice formation.

Another common cause is a refrigerant leak, which lowers the pressure within the system and, consequently, the temperature of the evaporator coil. This can also result in the coil freezing over.

A malfunctioning fan or blower that fails to move air efficiently over the coils can contribute to ice accumulation.

3. Weird Noises

Ductless AC systems are designed to operate quietly, so any deviation from their normal, near-silent operation can be a sign of a problem that needs professional Dandridge HVAC services.

Grinding noises often suggest an issue with the fan motor or other moving parts within the system. This could be due to worn-out bearings, lack of lubrication, or components that are misaligned.

If left unaddressed, these problems can escalate, leading to more severe damage and potentially causing the entire system to fail.

Buzzing sounds can arise from various issues, including loose parts, debris inside the unit, or electrical problems. They may also indicate that the condenser coil needs cleaning or that there’s a refrigerant leak. Each of these issues can compromise your system.

Hissing noises are usually a sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is super important for the cooling process, and any leak can diminish the system’s ability to cool your home effectively. They can also pose environmental hazards and should be addressed immediately by a certified HVAC technician.

4. Higher Bills

A random increase in your home energy bills is a clear sign that your ductless AC system may need repair.

One of the primary reasons for higher energy bills is that your ductless AC unit is working harder than necessary to cool your home. This inefficiency can be caused by dirty air filters, which restrict airflow and force the system to run longer to achieve the desired temperature.

Clogged or dirty coils can reduce the system’s ability to transfer heat effectively. That causes it to consume more power.

5. Weird Smells

Your AC system should circulate clean, odorless air. Any deviation from this norm can suggest various underlying issues.

A musty or moldy odor often indicates mold or mildew within your AC system.  This can occur when moisture accumulates in the unit or ductwork, providing an ideal environment for mold growth.  These smells can also be a sign of problems with your indoor air quality.

A burning smell is a serious warning sign that should never be ignored. This odor typically indicates an electrical problem, such as overheating components, burning wires, or a failing motor. Electrical issues can be hazardous and potentially lead to a fire if not addressed immediately.

If you detect a burning smell, turn off your AC unit. Then, contact a professional HVAC technician for help with efficient cooling solutions right away to inspect and resolve the issue safely.

A vinegar-like or sour smell might indicate that your unit’s condensate pan or drain line is clogged, allowing bacteria to grow. This is particularly common in Dandridge’s warm months when your AC is working overtime to manage indoor humidity.

6. Water Leaking

In Dandridge’s humid climate, your ductless AC works hard to remove moisture from the air. This condensation typically drains through a dedicated line. However, if you notice water dripping from the unit or pooling on the floor beneath it, several issues could be at play.

The condensate drain line might be clogged, preventing proper water removal. The drain pan could also be cracked or misaligned, causing water to spill over.

Ignoring water leaks can lead to major problems. Water leaking into the unit’s electrical components can cause short circuits and more extensive damage to your AC system.

7. Controls Not Working

If you find yourself unable to adjust the temperature, switch between cooling and heating modes, or turn the unit on and off, it’s a clear indicator that something is amiss.

In some cases, you might notice that the system doesn’t respond to your input immediately, or it may operate erratically, ignoring your set preferences.

The causes of control malfunctions can range from simple to complex. Sometimes, it might be as straightforward as dead batteries in your remote control. However, more serious issues could involve problems with the control board, sensors, or wiring within the unit itself.

Dandridge’s occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms, can sometimes cause electrical issues that affect your ductless AC’s control systems.

Dandridge Ductless AC Repair: Invest Today

If you notice any of these signs you need ductless AC repair, you’ll want to look into Dandrige HVAC services.

Are you ready to hire Dandridge HVAC services? Budget Heating and Air Conditioning has been providing reliable and affordable services since the 1980s, so you know we’ll be able to get your home cool again in no time.

Contact us today.

Do you feel as if every pollen season feels worse and worse as time goes on? It’s not in your head. Studies have shown that pollen season begins earlier and stays longer, affecting more people in the process.

Pollution and pollen season have an interesting relationship that not many people know about. As the air becomes more polluted, plants have to learn to grow in stressed environments, causing them to release more allergens.

The increase in pollen outdoors can impact indoor air quality greatly. Tennessee has a long allergy season from late February through November. As we wait out the allergy storm, it’s important to know how to improve indoor air quality.

Keep reading to learn six tips for improving air quality indoors in Morristown.

6 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

1. Keep the Air Flowing Freely

If you are looking for a cost-effective way to improve indoor air quality, ventilation is key.

You can keep air flowing freely in your house by opening doors and windows. However, it’s important to check the pollen count in Morristown before testing this out. Polluted outdoor air will defeat the purpose of this strategy.

Another affordable method of improving indoor air quality is consistently changing out your filters. Heating and air conditioning filters get dirty quickly, especially if you have pets in the home.

Make it a habit to check and replace these filters every three months to avoid pollutants getting back into the air.

It may be a good idea to work with an HVAC company that can check the health of your vents. Poor ventilation can cost a pretty penny to fix, but you and your home will thank you.

During this checkup, a professional can look for cracks around your doors and windows. These open spaces can let hot air in while your AC is running, making it work harder to cool the home.

2. Invest in an Air Purifier

You can achieve home air purity with an air purifier. Air purifiers work to create a healthy home environment filtering unwanted pollutants out of the air.

While there are many different air purifiers that you can invest in, consider one with a HEPA filter. These filters are well-known to remove more particles from the air than others.

Air purifiers don’t eliminate all pollutants from the air, but they do a good job of removing some. HEPA filters, for example, can remove bacteria, dust, pollen, and mold elements from the air.

If you want to remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from the air, carbon filters are your best bet. VOCs are found in some cleaning products you might be using to tidy up your home.

Air purifiers aren’t effective for removing smoke from the air. No filter has succeeded in eliminating carbon monoxide from the air. This is because air purifiers in general cannot seize gases in the air of your home.

3. Understand Common Pollution Sources

One of the best indoor air quality tips is to learn about the sources of pollution. Many of them come from products you may be using daily without knowing it.

Cleaning products like bleach, glass cleaners, and cleaning sprays can contain dangerous chemicals that stay in the air. Even some air fresheners are harmful to your breathing.

You can avoid excess pollutants from cleaning products by opting for nontoxic ingredients. DIYing your own cleaners with natural products can greatly reduce your risks.

Formaldehyde is a VOC that causes pollution in the home. It’s commonly found in composite wood. Try to avoid this material when you can to prevent overexposure.

Secondhand smoke and thirdhand smoke can cause health concerns as well. Secondhand smoke is exhaled cigarette smoke that stays trapped in the air if you smoke indoors.

Thirdhand smoke poses a health risk as well and is found on surfaces that absorb it. Your clothes could cause thirdhand smoke to get indoors.

4. Eradicate Irritants in the Home

All indoor spaces have some irritants that get worse if you avoid them. Dust and dust mites are two very common ones that can be found anywhere.

If you regularly dust and clean your home, you will build a better breathing space. Avoiding allergens can eliminate uncomfortable symptoms like a sore throat, watery eyes, and a runny nose.

If you begin feeling these symptoms more, consider getting the air quality in your home checked.

5. Reduce the Chance of Mold Growth

Mold is toxic and can cause allergies and poor indoor air quality. Keeping moisture out of the air of your home is the best way to prevent mold growth.

If you experience signs of mold, check your roof and attic for leaks that might be contributing to moisture in the home. A professional can also check your foundation and your basement if you have one.

Keeping the air flowing with fans and open windows can also prevent moisture from getting trapped in the home. You can invest in a dehumidifier if your home feels especially humid.

6. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC system is an integral part of your journey to better indoor air. Scheduling regular maintenance with Budget Heating and Air Conditioning helps increase the efficiency of your unit.

When your system has to work harder to heat or cool your home, it can’t work at maximum efficiency. Regular HVAC maintenance with our professionals includes:

• Inspection
• Cleaning
• Filter replacement
• Calibration and adjustment
• Testing and safety checks

While there are many benefits to preventative maintenance, indoor air quality is at the top of the list. Working systems and new filters remove contaminants from the air.

For Indoor Air Quality Services in Morristown, TN, Contact Budget Heating & Air Conditioning for Service

If you desire a healthier living environment, use these tips to improve indoor air quality in your Morristown home.

With the help of the pros at Budget Heating and Air Conditioning, you mitigate your risk of breathing in dangerous pollutants and allergens. Our team can conduct an air quality test and recommend the best plan of action.

We are a family-owned and operated business that you can trust to be reliable, quick, and efficient. We’ve been serving Morristown and surrounding communities since 1982.

Request a free quote for air quality services and more today.

Consumers spend over $10 billion a year on HVAC repair and maintenance services. Neglecting routine HVAC maintenance, however, can cause the unit to break down. You may need to spend even more on a new one.

Before that happens, request a pre-season HVAC tune-up in Morristown, TN. Routine maintenance will keep your unit operating at its best.

What are the benefits of seasonal HVAC maintenance? Read on to find out!

8 Benefits of HVAC Preventive Maintenance

1. Avoid Emergency HVAC Repairs

Every summer, families host parties, invite friends over, and enjoy summer vacation at home. Imagine having friends or family over, only for your HVAC unit to break down. No one will want to stay during the heat of summer.

Scheduling routine maintenance can help you avoid needing emergency HVAC repair. Your HVAC technician will assess the unit’s components. They’ll recognize parts that may break down in a few months.

With their help, you can keep the unit functioning properly. You’ll have peace of mind before you invite guests over.

They’ll spot problems before they can get worse. You can pay for minor repairs instead of a major fix or a new unit.

If you wait until the last minute to request services, you could encounter problems during the busy season. Instead, schedule a pre-season tune-up. Request a check-up every fall and spring.

You won’t have to wait days before a technician is available to visit your home. Instead, you can get help before there’s a major issue with the unit. Requesting services before the unit breaks down can help you avoid a stressful situation later.

2. Extend the Unit’s Lifespan

Over time, your HVAC system’s components can experience wear and tear. Small problems can build up, leading to bigger issues.

For example, the AC drip pan can start to leak. This will cause mold and mildew to grow. Your home’s indoor air quality could become compromised.

The evaporator and condenser coils can get dirty over time. They work in tandem to produce and circulate cool air throughout your home. When they’re dirty, insulation will prevent heat from absorbing properly.

Corrosion, usually caused by a refrigerant leak, can occur. A leak can cause the coil to freeze over, causing more absorption issues.

These problems can cause the unit to produce strange sounds. You may notice your energy bills have increased.

Meanwhile, the likelihood of the unit breaking down will rise. Before these issues occur, schedule preventative maintenance.

Scheduling HVAC maintenance regularly could push your unit’s lifespan to up to 15 years. You can avoid paying for an expensive new unit. Instead, you can ensure your current unit is operating effectively and efficiently.

3. Reduce Energy Costs

About 6% of all electrical use in America goes directly to our HVAC systems. Your bills will increase if there’s a problem with the unit.

Common HVAC problems will cause the unit to push itself to operate. It will use more energy, causing your expenses to rise.

Meanwhile, the components will experience additional wear and tear. Some may break down. The entire unit may stop working.

If you’ve experienced increased energy costs, talk to a Morristown HVAC technician. They can make recommendations to help you improve your energy efficiency.

For example, they may recognize that you need to replace your HVAC filter more often. Otherwise, the unit will try harder to push air through a clogged filter.

If you have an old unit, you may need to switch to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Units with the ENERGY STAR label can save you up to 20% on energy costs.

4. Minimize Allergens

An experienced HVAC technician can help you improve your home’s indoor air quality. Otherwise, it’s possible you’re breathing in:

• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Cigarette smoke
• Mold
• Dust mites

These allergens can trigger allergic reactions. You may start sniffling, sneezing, and coughing within your own home.

A technician may recommend air duct cleaning services. You may not realize pests have infiltrated your ducts. Routine cleanings can improve your home’s indoor air quality.

Routine maintenance can help you recognize issues that are compromising your family’s health. For example, carbon dioxide can sneak into your home. It’s colorless, odorless, and poisonous.

Regular checks will allow a technician to recognize that you have a problem. They’ll confirm the gas is venting and burning properly.

5. Increased Comfort

No one wants to sweat through summer break indoors. Before there’s an issue with your unit, call your Morristown technicians. They’ll confirm that the unit is working as intended.

The solutions they provide now can help keep your family comfortable all summer. You can avoid the unwanted stress of the unit breaking down.

Talk to a technician if you’ve noticed increased humidity levels within your home. They may recommend you use a dehumidifier. They can identify the root cause of the problem to provide a customized solution.

6. Protect the Environment

Regular HVAC maintenance is beneficial for the environment. Without regular tune-ups, the unit may push itself harder. It will use more fuel to operate.

An experienced technician can offer recommendations to reduce your environmental footprint. They may suggest that you switch to an eco-friendly unit if you’re using an older model.

7. Meet Warranty Requirements

If your HVAC unit breaks down, the manufacturer will request proof that you scheduled maintenance checks. Not having licensed professionals check the unit can invalidate the warranty. You may need to pay for a new unit out of pocket.

Before that happens, schedule regular maintenance. You can protect the unit, your home, and your wallet.

8. Peace of Mind

Requesting routine tune-ups will give you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry every time the unit makes a strange sound or cycles. Instead, your technician can identify the problem and offer a solution.

Budget Heating & Air Conditioning Morristown, TN

Don’t let your HVAC unit break down as temperatures start to rise. Instead, schedule a pre-season HVAC tune-up. A Morristown, TN technician can assess your unit and ensure it’s functioning properly.

Trust our team at Budget Heating and Air Conditioning. We offer comprehensive, fast, and reliable services.

We treat our customers like family and guarantee to exceed expectations. Trust our affordable range of services. Contact us today to schedule your HVAC tune-up.