Category: Air Conditioner

As the sun brightens and the days grow longer, many of us welcome the change of season with open arms. However, for countless individuals, this transition also ushers in the less-welcomed season of spring allergies. It’s a time when pollen, dust mites, and other allergens become more active, stirring up a range of uncomfortable allergy symptoms. While there are various ways to manage these symptoms, one effective yet often overlooked method is maintaining excellent indoor air quality by regularly replacing your air filters.

At Air Specialties, we’re HVAC system experts. Since 1952, our team has been providing residential and commercial HVAC services across New Haven, CT, and the nearby region. We offer a range of indoor air quality solutions, including air filter replacement, so you can breathe easy even during the height of spring. 

Common Airborne Allergens

In many homes, the air is filled with various allergens that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Common airborne allergens include pollen, which makes its way indoors through open windows and on clothing, as well as pet dander, a major irritant that accumulates from the skin flakes and fur of household pets.

Additionally, mold spores present another significant concern, thriving in damp areas and circulating through air systems. These allergens can cause a range of symptoms, from sneezing to more severe respiratory issues, making it crucial to maintain clean air within the home to minimize exposure and alleviate symptoms.

Role of Air Filters in Managing Allergies

Air filters play a crucial role in your home’s HVAC system by trapping and removing various airborne particles and pollutants from the air you breathe. By trapping allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, air filters significantly reduce the irritants in your indoor environment. This is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it minimizes the triggers that lead to allergy symptoms. Indoor air quality is critical to our health and well-being. Clean air filters help eliminate airborne contaminants that can contribute to and exacerbate respiratory problems and other health issues.

However, clogged or dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing HVAC systems to work harder. This not only leads to increased energy consumption but can also shorten the lifespan of your system. Regular air filter replacement ensures that your system runs efficiently and economically.

Types of High-Quality Air Filters

When it comes to air filters, not all are created equal. HEPA filters, or High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters, are among the best options available. They are capable of trapping particles that are much smaller than the thickness of a human hair, such as pollen, mold spores, and dust mites, making them incredibly effective against most allergens. 

Additional filter types include activated carbon filters, which help remove odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and electrostatic filters, which use an electric charge to attract and trap particles.

To best improve indoor air quality, choosing the right air filter for your HVAC system is critical. Partnering with a professional HVAC company like Air Specialties is a surefire way of getting the correct size and type of filter for your system requirements.  

What Is Minimum Efficiency Reporting?

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is a standard that rates the effectiveness of air filters based on their ability to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns. This rating helps to determine how well an air filter can remove pollutants from the air, thereby indicating its efficiency in improving indoor air quality.

Replacing Air Filters

The frequency of replacing air filters can vary depending on several factors, including the type of filter, your overall air quality, and how much your HVAC system is used. Here are some general guidelines:

• Standard Filters: Replace every 30 to 60 days.
• Pleated Filters: Replace every 90 days.
• HEPA Filters: Follow manufacturer recommendations, typically every 12 to 18 months.

The Benefits of Having a Professional Change Your Air Filter

Changing an air filter is an easy DIY project any homeowner can do. But if you’re not comfortable handling it yourself or you have an AC tune-up appointment coming up, then you can certainly rely on a professional to change the filter for you! Either way, it’s important to routinely replace your air filter, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is free from harmful pollutants and allergens.

When an air filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it can significantly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. This means that it has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home, resulting in higher energy bills. Having a pro replace your filter can help keep your system running smoothly and save you money in the long run.

Moreover, if an air filter is not installed correctly, it can leave gaps or leaks in the filtration system, allowing dust and pollutants to bypass the filter. Having a professional install your air filter guarantees that it is properly sealed and fitted into your HVAC system. 

Schedule Your Indoor Air Quality Service Today

Spring allergies can be a daunting challenge, but with the right strategies in place, you can enjoy the season with minimal discomfort. At Air Specialties, we are committed to helping you maintain the best possible indoor air quality. Our team of experts is ready to assist with everything from filter replacements to complete HVAC system check-ups and even indoor air quality testing. Don’t let allergies hold you back this spring – contact us today to schedule your indoor air quality service in New Haven County, CT and stop wasting money on tissues and eye drops!

As summer approaches, the last thing you want is for your central air conditioner to fail during those first sweltering days. Preparing your air conditioning system for summer is essential to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable as temperatures rise.

At Air Specialities, we understand that the best summer days are those when you can slip into a relaxing air-conditioned home after enjoying some fun in the sun. Since 1952, we’ve been keeping it cool for both residential and commercial HVAC customers throughout West Haven, CT, and the surrounding service area. Our decades of experience mean we know the ins and outs of every AC system, from the oldest models that have been part of homes for generations to the sleek new units dotting commercial landscapes. 

Let’s dive into how you can get your AC unit ready for the heat so you can chill out all season long. 

Breeze Through the AC Basics

An air conditioner is a system designed to cool your home or office, making those hot days more comfortable. At the heart of this system are the outdoor compressor and condenser units, which are crucial for the air cooling process. The compressor pumps a substance called coolant through the coolant lines, moving it between the indoor and outdoor units. 

As the coolant flows into the indoor evaporator coils, it absorbs heat from the indoor air, effectively lowering the temperature. The air handler then pushes the cool air through the air filter, which cleans it by removing particles and allergens. This filtered, cool air then circulates throughout your space. 

Meanwhile, the absorbed heat is transferred back outside through the condenser coils and released outdoors. This cycle repeats to keep your space at a comfortable temperature.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Air Conditioner

1. Start with a Safety Check

Always begin by turning off the power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker. This protects you as you perform maintenance checks and clean various components.

2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter 

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your air conditioner’s performance is to clean or replace the air filter. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Where does that leave you? With increased energy bills and possibly a premature replacement. Check your filter monthly and swap it out or clean it as needed.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit 

Over time, your outdoor unit might collect debris, such as leaves, dirt, and grass clippings, which can impede airflow. Gently clean the fan blades and condenser coils with a garden hose, and make sure the area around the unit is clear of vegetation and clutter for at least two feet.

4. Check for Proper Airflow 

Make sure that the vents throughout your home are open and unobstructed. This includes checking that furniture, rugs, or drapes are not blocking air supply vents, as restricted airflow can cause the system to work inefficiently.

5. Test the System 

After you’ve completed the maintenance checks and cleaning, turn the power back on. Test the system by setting the thermostat to cool and lowering the temperature to see how the AC responds. Listen for unusual noises and monitor for any distinctive smells. It might be time to call in a professional if anything seems out of the ordinary.

When Your Air Conditioner Unit Demands Professional Attention

While regular maintenance can be handled on your own to a certain extent, some signs indicate the need for a professional touch. 

• The air conditioning unit is making unusual noises, such as grinding or squealing.
• You notice an unexpected increase in your energy bills.
• There is weak airflow from the vents.
• Warm air is blowing out of your AC unit.
• Moisture or leakage around the system, particularly around the indoor unit, points to refrigerant leaks or a blocked drain tube. 

These are signs of underlying issues that need to be fixed as soon as possible if you want to be cool through the summer. Contacting an HVAC technician from Air Specialties is crucial for these complex issues!

Call Now to Ensure Your System’s Efficiency All Summer Long!

Get your AC tuned up now with Air Specialties. Our awesome techs will check your whole system, guaranteeing everything runs smoothly. That means cool air all summer long, with no worries. A little prep now saves you a sweaty mess later! Got some more burning questions? Contact us today for more temperature tips and tricks or to schedule heating and cooling services in West Haven County, CT!

Air conditioners are an essential part of our lives, providing us with much-needed comfort during the sweltering summer months. But how long do air conditioners last? And what factors contribute to their longevity? Let’s explore the average lifespan of air conditioning systems, the importance of regular maintenance, and how wear and tear can affect your AC unit’s performance.

The Average Lifespan of Air Conditioners

The average lifespan of most air conditioning systems is around 15-20 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the unit, usage, and maintenance. Some high-quality central air systems can even last up to 25 years with proper care.

Factors Affecting AC Unit Lifespan

There are several factors that can affect how long AC units last. Some of these factors include:

1. Quality of the AC Unit: Higher quality air conditioners tend to have a longer lifespan than lower-quality models. Investing in a reputable brand can help ensure your cooling system lasts for many years.
2. Usage: The more you use your air conditioner, the shorter its lifespan will be. Running your AC constantly can cause wear and tear on the components, leading to a shorter life expectancy.
3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your air conditioner. Routine check-ups and tune-ups can help identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs or the need to replace your AC unit prematurely.
4. Environmental Factors: The environment in which your air conditioner operates can also affect its lifespan. For example, outdoor units exposed to extreme weather conditions may experience increased wear and tear.
5. Installation: Proper installation by a qualified HVAC technician is essential for ensuring the longevity of your air conditioning system. Improper installation can lead to poor performance and a shorter lifespan for your AC unit.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance plays a vital role in extending the life of your air conditioner. Scheduling an AC tune-up in New Haven County can help identify potential issues before they become more significant problems, saving you money on repairs and potentially extending the life of your cooling system.

Some essential maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning or replacing air filters regularly to maintain good air quality and ensure your AC unit runs efficiently.
• Inspecting and cleaning the outdoor unit to remove debris and ensure proper airflow.
• Checking refrigerant levels and refilling as needed.
• Inspecting and cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils to improve energy efficiency and performance.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Despite regular maintenance and care, there will come a time when it’s necessary to replace your air conditioner. Here are some signs that it may be time to consider a new cooling system:

• Your air conditioner is over 15-20 years old.
• Your energy bills have increased significantly without any changes in usage.
• Your AC unit requires frequent repairs.
• Your home’s air quality has decreased, or the system struggles to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Your air conditioner uses an outdated refrigerant (such as R-22) that is no longer being manufactured.

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to consult with an HVAC professional about air conditioning installation in New Haven.

Time for a New AC Unit? Turn to Air Specialties

How long air conditioners last depends on several factors, including the quality of the unit, usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. On average, most air conditioning systems last between 15-20 years. Regular maintenance and care can help extend the life of your cooling system, while also improving its energy efficiency and performance.

Ultimately, being proactive about maintaining your air conditioner and paying attention to signs of wear and tear will help ensure that your cooling system remains in peak condition for as long as possible. And when it’s finally time to replace your AC unit, investing in a high-quality system and proper installation will set you up for many more years of comfortable, efficient cooling.

Spring cleaning and air conditioner maintenance are essential to ensuring the system runs efficiently and avoids breaking down when you need it most. Of course, it’s a good idea to clean your vents and remove debris collected in or around your outdoor unit. But several components of your AC system aren’t as easy to get to that also need to be considered when cleaning your air conditioner in the spring. 

Air Specialties provides AC tune-ups in New Haven County. With our years of experience in serving HVAC units, we’ve come up with these spring cleaning AC tips highlighting some important areas of your cooling system that require a professional to clean.

1) Evaporator & Condenser Coils 

The first step in ensuring you have a clean air conditioner in the spring is checking the coils. Dirty condenser and evaporator coils can reduce the efficiency of an air conditioner and make it work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and cooling costs. If your air conditioning unit’s coils have collected dust and debris that can interfere with their operation, one of the most vital spring cleaning AC tips is to have a technician clean them during a service appointment. Coils can be delicate components in your AC unit, so only a professional should remove and clean them. 

2) Fan Blades

A qualified technician can check the AC unit’s blower fan blades to ensure they are clean and in working order. Dirty blower fan blades can make the blades imbalanced and reduce the airflow in your air conditioner. As a result, the decreased airflow can cause your condenser coils to freeze, leading to ice buildup and damage to the system. 

3) Drainage System

Bacteria can build up in the drainage system of your AC unit, causing mold and mildew to form. When this happens, you will notice musty smells coming from your vents. Debris can also college in the line preventing it from draining properly. During a routine cleaning, an HVAC technician can inspect your drainage lines to ensure they are free of any obstructions and don’t have any signs of mold, mildew, or algae. 

4) Ductwork

Dust, pollen, and other debris can collect in AC ductwork, particularly in areas with high pollution or homes with pets. Sometimes, odors may indicate problems with ducts requiring cleaning. But, in other instances, there are no signs of a reduction in air quality caused by dirty ducts that can trigger allergies and other illnesses. Generally, air ducts should be cleaned by a professional once every three to five years.

In addition to these spring cleaning AC tips, several other steps should be included in a maintenance checkup of your AC system to ensure it’s running correctly. Those steps include the following:

5) Checking Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant in your AC unit absorbs heat from the air that cools your home. Therefore, if the refrigerant level is low, that will impact your unit’s ability to function. 

6) Replacing the Air Filter

Dirty air filters can also reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner. They are essential in ensuring you have a clean air conditioner in the spring and help ensure your air conditioner is working up to its capacity. An air filter clogged with dust and debris can restrict the airflow into your HVAC system and cause it to work harder. Additionally, dirty air filters can allow allergens to enter your home and reduce indoor air quality. 

Contact Us for Your Spring Air Conditioner Cleaning 

Heating and cooling units are complex systems that can be dangerous to work on because they are often connected to gas and power lines. Cleaning your AC in the spring without the right know-how can cause injury to homeowners and damage to the system. 

Ensuring your air conditioning system is clean and works properly is a job for a trained professional with the right tools and knowledge to perform HVAC maintenance quickly and safely. In cases where you have a total system failure, we can also provide air conditioner replacement in New Haven. But keeping up with annual maintenance can help you avoid major problems. 

Contact Air Specialties today to handle these spring cleaning AC tips for you and ensure that you have a clean air conditioner ready for spring!

Air conditioning problems can be incredibly frustrating, especially if temperatures are reaching record highs just outside your door. One common problem that can cause many homeowners to scratch their heads is when their AC unit turns off after about 15 minutes. One minute your air conditioner could be running fine, and the next, the unit has completely shut off. While this problem can be downright puzzling, it can also put your comfort at risk since your home never gets as cool as you would like it to.

So, why does your air conditioner turn off by itself? There can be several different reasons why this issue is happening. Let’s go over them in more detail below.

Faulty Thermostat

If your air conditioner keeps shutting off, you’ll want to first check the thermostat. Your thermostat may fail to properly sense the temperature inside your home. While this problem can be due to an electrical issue, you might want to replace your thermostat’s batteries to see if this simple fix makes a difference.

Try replacing the batteries, and if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. A technician will perform a repair, or they might suggest relocating the thermostat to a different part of the house. If your thermostat is currently in a shady place or near a cool air vent, the device might inaccurately believe that your entire home is cool and could shut off the AC unit as a result.

Dirty Air Filter

Why does your air conditioner turn off by itself? The issue could lie with the air filter. Believe it or not, keeping the filter in your HVAC system clean can make a significant difference when it comes to your comfort, electric bills, and air conditioner performance.

Short cycling is a common problem associated with dirty air filters. When the air filter becomes blocked with debris, this makes it difficult for air to pass to and from the air conditioner’s air handler. This poor airflow can cause the evaporator coils to freeze — and the AC unit can shut off as a result. Additional signs of frozen evaporator coils can include water leaks and a clogged condensate drain line.

Refrigerant Leaks

If your air conditioner keeps shutting off, you’ll also want to be on the lookout for any refrigerant leaks. As your air conditioner gets older, it can experience different types of wear and tear. Corrosion and weakening components could lead to these leaks.

Low refrigerant levels can cause many problems for air conditioning systems. For example, this problem often creates a sudden change in pressure that causes the outdoor compressor unit to shut down.

Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner has two important components: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. As we mentioned above, this outdoor system is known as a “compressor.” Like most other parts, this compressor can experience wear and tear over time — and that might be why your AC unit keeps shutting off.

So, why does your air conditioner turn off by itself when it has a damaged compressor? When it comes down to it, your air conditioner can’t do its job without a fully-functioning compressor. If this unit overheats, malfunctions, or fails completely, the entire cooling system will shut down as a result.

The problem could be caused by dirt and debris getting inside the unit, or it could potentially be due to regular old age. No matter the reason, it’s important to contact a professional technician to get to the bottom of the problem once and for all.

Malfunctioning Run Capacitor

If your air conditioner keeps shutting off after checking for the problems listed above, you could be dealing with a faulty run capacitor. What is a run capacitor? Think of it as the device that gives air conditioning units a sudden rush of energy when starting a new cooling cycle. The run capacitor is constantly storing energy, which it will provide to ensure that the air conditioner’s fan motor is running properly.

When you have a malfunctioning run capacitor on your hands, the air conditioner won’t receive the continuous supply of energy it needs to keep on running. In the end, this could be why your air conditioner starts then stops after only a few seconds.

Oversized AC

When your air conditioner keeps shutting off, you should check to make sure that your cooling system isn’t too large for your house. Although you might think installing an oversized air conditioner will benefit you and your family in the long run, it won’t actually improve your comfort. Instead, you might experience the exact opposite.

If your AC is too big, it’ll finish cooling your home much quicker than if you’d installed a smaller unit. While this may seem like a perk, the air conditioner will end up shutting down much quicker as a result. As you can probably imagine, you could end up experiencing hot and cold spots throughout your home, as well as higher energy bills.

How can you fix this problem? It all comes down to contacting a professional for a New Haven AC replacement. It’s important to ensure that you install an air conditioner that fits your home’s size and cooling needs.

Schedule a Service With Our Air Conditioning Experts

Why does your air conditioner turn off by itself? There are many potential reasons for this issue, which is why you should call an experienced heating and cooling company that will help you diagnose and fix the problem.
Air Specialties is here to provide you with a dependable solution, whether you’re dealing with a damaged AC compressor or a refrigerant leak. Contact us today to learn more about our CT air conditioning repairs!

If you’re looking for new ways to make your home comfortable while saving you some hard-earned cash, an energy-efficient AC unit is a great option. Not only can efficient air conditioners provide sufficient airflow you won’t find in standard units, but they also save you a ton of money and benefit the environment. If energy efficiency is calling your name, learn why switching to an energy-efficient AC unit is one of the best decisions you can make.

Your AC system experiences a lot of wear during the summer—especially if your thermostat is on a low setting. While you’re relaxing in the cool air, your air conditioner puts in the work to keep you comfortable. Although your system may seem like it’s pulling its weight and shows no signs of trouble, you shouldn’t forget to schedule maintenance services.

Thinking about investing in an AC replacement is not a fun task for anyone because it’s rarely seen as an investment. More often than not, you may think that getting your air conditioning system replaced is a nightmare that you’d rather put off for as long as you can than take steps towards today.

Anyone with an air conditioning system knows how wonderful it can be to have such a resource during a hot summer month. However, before you have to depend on your HVAC system, you should look to schedule an AC maintenance appointment for your New Haven County, CT, residence.