An AC unit failure obviously confirms there was at least one component or part not operating properly.  While there are numerous AC parts and components, one component that may be beginning to fail is the air conditioning condenser fan motor.

The fan motor is in the outdoor cooling unit working to keep the compressor from over-heating.  If it overheats, it could lead to a more expensive repair or even a unit replacement.

The cooling unit motor may give indicators it’s stressing and here are a few things to be aware of:

• A Distinct Burning Smell – any burning smell around your AC unit indicates a failure will likely occur, and can include the condenser fan motor.
• Less Than Cool Air Blowing – the fan is very important because it’s essential for proper temperatures.  If the Air Conditioner is running but not cooling properly, the condenser fan motor may be to blame.
• Buzzing, Humming, or Squealing Type Noises – there are normal operation noises and then there are “trouble on the way” noises. Any new, unusual sounds coming from the condensing unit is never good.

If any of the above indicators are happening with your cooling equipment, it may be time to call a professional air conditioner repair service company. 

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and applies only to cooling.  New air conditioners and heat pumps have SEER values from 13 or 14 through 20+. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures the relationship of the cooling system output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and the amount of electric energy it consumes during the same season.  Which means, the higher the SEER number, the less electricity or energy your air conditioner or heat pump uses to cool your home.  Cooling equipment with a higher SEER is typically more expensive to purchase but it will save you more money on your electric bill.

Keep in mind older air conditioners had SEER numbers as low as 8 with the majority being  9 & 10 SEER.  When it’s time to replace, up grading to a 13 (lowest available today) or higher will increase the efficiency dramatically over the old air conditioning system and if you’re looking for more savings, an air source heat pump is a great efficient option since it operates during cooling and heating seasons.  TIP: Heat pumps have a HSPF number that stands for Heating Season Performance Factor and if your heating season is dominate over your cooling season, focus more on the HSPF number rather than the SEER and it’s wise to get a heat pump with a HSPF of 8 or higher in this case. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:  SEER ratio number is a maximum ratio, meaning the unit is capable of achieving that efficiency but doesn’t necessarily mean it will ALWAYS operate at its SEER ratio number.  There are various factors that contribute to this, like constantly adjusting the thermostat which changes the temperature in your house, the outside temperature and humidity swings throughout the day, and how well the equipment is maintained.  These have a direct affect on the unit operating at its maximum potential and you reaping the benefit of savings.

Flowers and trees blooming; lush, green grass; warm temperatures… Spring is finally here!  Most people love this season, unfortunately, those with allergies dread this time of year with all that pollen flying around in the air.  What some may not know: pollen is not the only culprit!  The higher the summer heat and humidity go, gives the perfect combination for mold and mildew to grow. These and other allergens cause various symptoms that are more than annoying, they can be down-right miserable.  With proper HVAC maintenance and correct filter/s, your air conditioner will improve air quality and help alleviate allergy symptoms.

HVAC systems use filters that protect the equipment from dust that can damage components and controls and keeps it operating efficiently.   A common mistake is believing basic air filters keep dust and allergens from entering the air in your home.  While basic filters do remove some dust from the air when changed regularly, they do not catch those microscopic particles that cause all the misery during allergy season.  There are special air filters designed to stop those tiny, pesty particles like mold, bacteria, and certain types of pollen.  With multiple filters to choose from, it’s critical to use the correct filter for your system because…   All Filters Are Not Equal.

Basic or ordinarily filters are designed to capture larger particles but allows those smaller particles to pass through into the duct work and out into the home. Filters for allergens are designed to block the smaller particles providing cleaner air. These filters are called High Energy Particulate Air Filters or HEPA filters.   They have dense layers that can stop 99 percent of unwanted particles like smoke, pollens, mold, etc…

Filters also have “ratings” called the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV.  HEPA air filters for allergies are rated on how well they block particles of different sizes.  Ratings range from MERV 1 – 12.  The higher number indicates its capability of removing the smallest particles.  These “special” filters generally need to be replaced more frequently than ordinarily filters.

CAUTION: Using the wrong filter can create various issues with your system and can cause components and controls to fail. A professional HVAC contractor can select and install the best MERV-rated filter for your particular system and show you how to check and change them yourself since these type of filters generally need to be changed more frequently.

Another thing to consider in reducing allergens in the air is checking and cleaning the rest of the system.  If it’s been more than a year since the air conditioning or heating system has been serviced and maintained, most likely there is a buildup of dust, pollen, and possibly mold spores on the blower motors/fans, in the duct work, and possibly in the coils.  Proactive HVAC maintenance keeps your heating and cooling equipment clean!  You experience cleaner air, better performance, higher efficiency, fewer breakdowns, and increases the life of the equipment.

Last, but not least is the duct work.  If someone in your home has allergies and your duct work has not been checked for a few years, it may be worthwhile investing in an inspection.  The inspection will determine exactly how much dust, microscopic particles, mold or mildew have accumulated that can be making your symptoms worse and may require a professional cleaning to improve overall air quality.

Filter on left is only 2 months old! A dirty filter is the culprit behind a lot of component and control parts failure. Failed components and control parts is the reason for furnace and air conditioning repair service calls! Check the furnace filter once a month…pull it completely out and check both sides; change as often as needed. Changing the filter once or even twice a month would be a small price to pay compared to the cost of a service technician replacing failed parts in your heating or cooling equipment.

This has been an unusual summer season with cool temperatures in August and really warm temperatures in September/October but it finally looks like Fall is in the air. Sweaters and light jackets are now used on a regular basis with the cool nights and cooler early mornings. This also means it’s time for warm air to run through the duct system to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.
Here are some TIPS to prepare your heating unit for the up-coming heating season:
* Check the filter and change if needed. Most furnaces are out of sight, tucked in a closet, small room, or in a basement and it’s easy to forget to check and change the filter regularly.
* Run the furnace/heat pump BEFORE you need heat. Remember, the furnace has set dormant for a few months and should be checked for proper operation so it will be ready when you need it.
* An open window or two is always a good idea on first startup of the furnace since dust can accumulate on the various controls and parts causing it to burn off and put out that familiar “smell” after setting inactive through the summer months.

It’s easy to take for granted that our heating equipment will automatically work every time we turn it on, and most of the time it does, but with so many controls and parts that work season after season, they can begin to fail. The best approach is to be proactive and start your furnace or heat pump early and if it will not start or run properly, it’s time to call a HVAC Contractor for an experienced technician to check and service the furnace, air handler, or heat pump so it is operating safely, efficiently, and ready to keep you and your family warm for the winter.

The heating and cooling system is one of most expensive appliance in your home and there is never a convenient time to replace your HVAC equipment.   First, evaluate and determine if  the furnace, heat pump or air conditioner is more than a decade old.  Has it increased in the frequency of service repairs during peak use?   Have you noticed inconsistent or uneven temperatures in different parts of the house?   Has there been a steady increase on your utility bill?   If you answered yes to any of these questions,  this may be a good time to consider replacement.

A general rule of thumb:  if air conditioner or furnace repair costs are beginning to add up or a single repair equals to or is more than 50% of the total value of the existing heating or cooling unit,  it’s time to replace rather than repair.  There does come a point when it’s time to capitalize on one of the major benefits of HVAC equipment replacement:  a newer and more efficient system will give savings on your monthly utility bills!  Not to mention more consistent temperatures throughout the home.

Still not sure whether or not to repair or replace,  give us a call at 636-528-4794 to schedule a complete and honest assessment of your HVAC system and get options that make sense.

Check out our new HVAC blog for regular updates and information on heating and cooling systems, HVAC system maintenance tips, information on improving heating and cooling efficiency, and the latest HVAC equipment and industry news.

For more information and to schedule HVAC service in Troy, MO, contact the HVAC contractors at ABLE Heat & Cool.