What To Do In An HVAC Emergency

December 16, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC emergency

Your HVAC is an invisible comfort that works unnoticed all the time. However, things change when the HVAC system malfunctions or breaks down. When an HVAC emergency happens, you should know what to do to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the house.

Having a heating or cooling problem is no joke especially if it occurs during severe weather conditions. It’s a question of the overall safety of your family. Anytime your HVAC system goes down; it is imperative to get it repaired and running as soon as possible. If it breaks down during the night or over the weekend, there are emergency HVAC services you can rely on and get the problem sorted.

When an HVAC emergency presents itself there are a few things you can check before calling the professionals. Here are some dos and don’ts:

Troubleshoot

Check for simple solutions to the problem. Do you have power? In case there is a blackout, restoring your power might get the HVAC system back up and running. If power isn’t the problem, check if your thermostat is programmed correctly. Do you have a dirty filter that might be inhibiting free airflow in the HVAC system, or is the outdoor condenser clogged or congested by debris? These are some of the simple problems that can cause your HVAC system to malfunction. Before you call an emergency technician, check these out.

Don’t Attempt DIY

In case of an HVAC emergency, you might get tempted to do some repairs to your system, but you shouldn’t. HVAC systems are complex systems and problems can be made worse, especially if handled by a person with no experience. Don’t make a simple fix become a costly affair – leave the repair to the professionals.

Alternatives

Sometimes troubleshooting bears no fruit, and you have no option but to call an HVAC repair expert. Before the HVAC technician arrives, use alternative methods to try and heat or cool your home. Open the windows if there is too much heat and turn on a secondary fan if you have it. Keep your family’s peace of mind as you wait for an emergency technician to arrive.

Have an HVAC emergency? Contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling for service. Call 215-947-1166 for more information.

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Protect Your HVAC Before the Snow

December 2, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC


It is crucial to protect your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit from the elements throughout the year but especially in the winter. Snow and ice can damage your unit and cost you unnecessary repair costs or even replacement.

Whether your unit is on the ground or roof, it needs to be clear of debris and whatever the weather can bring. Rooftop units usually function well on their own. One concern with this type of unit is heavy snowfall. The rooftop unit will have to be checked and possibly cleared of snow. A heat pump unit will need more attention because even a moderate snowfall might affect it. Here are some items to check before the snowflakes start to fall:

Air Filter

To keep your unit running smoothly, it is a good idea to change the air filter on your unit. When your system gets clogged with dust and debris, it can hinder its function.

Thermostat

Check if your thermostat responds to the set temperature you desire for your building. If the thermostat is battery-powered, make sure that the battery is working. The battery should be changed at least once a year.

Outdoor Unit

If there is any debris around your unit, remove it. Cut back any overgrowth of bushes or grass. By having a clean area around your unit, you will ensure it remains in proper working order.

Ductwork Inspection

Schedule an inspection of your ductwork, replacing any missing or damaged insulation. Check for hole where air can leak into or out of the duct. Ductwork should also be free of debris for unobstructed airflow. Leaks and obstructed airways raise energy costs by overworking the unit.

Fuel Supply

It is essential to make sure that you have enough fuel to last the winter. Houses that use oil, propane, or natural gas should check their supply before winter begins. Running out of fuel in the middle of winter is not desirable. A fuel heating system can be more cost-effective than electric heating systems.

Professional Maintenance

Have a scheduled maintenance check two times a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall. By doing this, you will ensure your HVAC unit is operating at its optimum level. Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of the unit.

To schedule professional service for your HVAC system contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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HVAC Can Flood Your House

November 18, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC

HVAC units remove heat, cold, and moisture from your house, but this process has an unfortunate by-product in the form of moisture build-up. There is a built-in mechanism designed to address this issue, but sometimes, it fails. When this happens, the unit leaks excessive water—flooding your house. Other problems, such as malfunctioning parts of the HVAC units, can cause moisture build-up as well.

Water Build-up on HVAC Units

While moisture build-up on the HVAC units is perfectly normal, it becomes a problem when it leaks into your house. To better understand this scenario, try pouring cold water into a glass on a hot day. Notice the moisture build-up on the exterior of the glass; eventually, it begins to drip down.

This condensation process happens in your standard AC unit. An AC unit contains an evaporator coil that houses the cold refrigerant. Warm air inside your room is blown over it, cooling the air and causing moisture to build-up on the coils. This moisture then drips into a drip pan and down a condensate drain line that leads out of your home. This process is contained inside the HVAC unit. If you see any water outside the unit, there is a problem.  Listed are a few reasons why there may be water escaping from your HVAC unit.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A clogged drain line is the number one cause of water leaks from your AC unit. Accumulated dirt can easily find its way to the drain line with the help of water flow. When this happens, water backs up. Backed water causes further problems because it can create sludge and mold, clogging the line even more and will eventually fill up the drip pan—overflowing the unit.

There are numerous unclogging methods, but a guaranteed way is to have a professional use a vacuum to suck out the blockage material or opt for a drain line with an air vent and P-trap.

Old Damaged Drip Pan

Due to its long service duration, old drip pans can develop rust and holes, so water just falls right through. If this happens, you must replace it with a new drip pan.  Maybe add it to your yearly maintenance routine.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

If your HVAC units are located in the basement, it needs a condensate pump to push the water outside your home. But if the pump is malfunctioning, there will be no means to push water outside and will eventually fill up the drip pan—overflowing the unit. Ensure that the condensate pump is functioning soundly.

Dirty Air Filter

Dirty air filters block the smooth airflow of warm air to the evaporator coils. Due to obstructions, an insufficient amount of warm air is blown over the evaporator coils causing it to get too cold and freeze over. The accumulated ice will eventually melt, and the drip pan may not be able to handle the excess water, causing it to overflow. Cleaning your air filter is an easy task, and you need to do it frequently to prevent dirt build-up.

Misaligned Unit Placement

AC units placed on an inclined surface may not allow condensation to drain properly. Instead, install the unit slightly inclined towards the condensate drain line to force the water into the drain line by gravity.

Unsealed Unit

If your AC unit is not sealed completely, warm air can get inside the unit. Excess warm air constitutes excess moisture build-up due to condensation, which can overflow the drip pan. Ensure that your unit is correctly sealed.

If you see water pooling near your HVAC unit, call the professionals at Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Innovations Improve HVAC Systems

November 4, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC system

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) is the system that controls both the climate and air quality of a residential or office building. All three components work together and provide proper room air distribution in all the rooms while controlling humidity and temperature. These systems have been improved continuously, especially in homes with the constant demand by homeowners for stronger efficiency and to reduce energy costs.

One of the latest improvements built into the HVAC system is motion-activation that provides air conditioning only when someone is present in the room. A digital thermostat that can be set to lower or raise the temperature on a schedule, but that still costs money when nobody is home. With motion sensors in the room, the HVAC will only turn on when someone is present and thus preserve the energy all day.

Air conditioning is able to be thermally or solar-driven, which virtually eliminates the need for electricity – the main reason energy costs go up. Of course, it is likely to work best in places with warm climates like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California, but is still a viable option when going Eco-friendly.

HVAC systems can also use sensors that involve the ventilation of the home keeping it under control. This monitor measures a home‏’s temperature and air pressure and makes the necessary adjustments. New homes being built are now “smart.” They are connected to all technology through apps and touch systems accessed throughout the house. The smart technology that is in our phones, laptops, and appliances, are now being built in everything else we touch. With voice-activated objects, people can call for the temperature to change or fans to turn on or off.

Other improvements being developed at the moment have not yet become a reality for consumers. Air conditioning powered by ice and 3D air conditioners are being constructed and tested to improve the quality of life.

HVAC systems are the nucleus of the home’s livability because cold, warmth, and comfort all come from one place. These innovations are being incorporated into the HVAC system, so consumers are kept comfortable, and costs are kept down.

For more information on the latest innovative HVAC systems contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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The Cost of HVAC Filters

September 16, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC air filters

HVAC filter replacement comes with a cost. That cost can vary depending on filter size, brand, change frequency, and filter type. Please don’t let the cost of HVAC air filters scare you, and don’t let cost deter you from changing your filter regularly. HVAC system repairs can cost more than a monthly filter change.

What is an HVAC Filter?

HVAC means Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning. So an HVAC filter screens out the dust and debris that can get inside your system and cause loss of efficiency in the HVAC system. These filters serve the primary purpose of keeping the indoor parts of your system clean and safe from everyday dust and debris in the air.

HVAC Filter Cost

The cost of the HVAC filter you need to replace will vary. Every unit requires a specific size, and some HVAC units will require particular materials or brands. These are all factors in the frequency and cost of the filter change. A standard pleated HVAC filter can cost just a couple of dollars at your local home improvement or hardware store. The bigger your filter size, the more you can expect to pay for a filter. You can also expect a slightly higher price for a filter that doesn’t need to be changed every 30 days or a filter that is washable and reusable. Filters that include odor control material are also a bit more expensive.

The best value that you will find is a filter that can go 60 plus days without being changed. You may pay twice as much for a filter that will last you 90 days or 6 months, but you only pay that every few months rather than every 30 days. You will also find great value in washable filters, purchase two of them for slightly more than a 30-day filter and you can wash and reuse them and pay for filters once a year. There are ways to save money on filters; you have to research what is best for your unit.

Keep it Clean

Regularly changing your HVAC filter is essential. All HVAC systems require a filter, and it needs to be changed routinely whether that is every 30 days or every 6 months. Keeping the internal parts of your HVAC system clean and safe is critical for continued efficient operation. For the price of a cup of coffee, you can keep your HVAC system running well, and you can avoid repairs or replacement ahead of schedule.

HVAC means Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning. So an HVAC filter screens out the dust and debris that can get inside your system and cause loss of efficiency in the HVAC system. These filters serve the primary purpose of keeping the indoor parts of your system clean and safe from everyday dust and debris in the air.

HVAC Filter Cost

The cost of the HVAC filter you need to replace will vary. Every unit requires a specific size, and some HVAC units will require particular materials or brands. These are all factors in the frequency and cost of the filter change. A standard pleated HVAC filter can cost just a couple of dollars at your local home improvement or hardware store. The bigger your filter size, the more you can expect to pay for a filter. You can also expect a slightly higher price for a filter that doesn’t need to be changed every 30 days or a filter that is washable and reusable. Filters that include odor control material are also a bit more expensive.

The best value that you will find is a filter that can go 60 plus days without being changed. You may pay twice as much for a filter that will last you 90 days or 6 months, but you only pay that every few months rather than every 30 days. You will also find great value in washable filters, purchase two of them for slightly more than a 30-day filter and you can wash and reuse them and pay for filters once a year. There are ways to save money on filters; you have to research what is best for your unit.

Keep it Clean

Regularly changing your HVAC filter is essential. All HVAC systems require a filter, and it needs to be changed routinely whether that is every 30 days or every 6 months. Keeping the internal parts of your HVAC system clean and safe is critical for continued efficient operation. For the price of a cup of coffee, you can keep your HVAC system running well, and you can avoid repairs or replacement ahead of schedule.

For all your HVAC service needs contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Why Your HVAC Needs Maintenance

September 2, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC


Do you enjoy a refreshing home in the heat of summer or a warm house in the dead of winter? I know I sure do. HVAC routine and preventative maintenance is a must to ensure a comfortable environment at home when it’s needed.

What is HVAC Maintenance?

HVAC maintenance is best done by a professional. It involves cleaning components of your heating and cooling systems like the condenser coils, evaporator coils, compressor, filters, and more. Most people change their air filter regularly and find that reasonably straightforward, but the other parts can be a bit tricky. While the technician is cleaning the coils and compressor, they are also looking for issues that the untrained eye may not notice.

Maintenance also entails lubricating moving parts, cleaning debris, and checking the condensate drain. Inspecting exhaust outlets and checking voltage and connections is an integral part of the maintenance routine. All of the parts of your system should be checked for malfunctions to ensure that your system is running well.

Why is HVAC Maintenance Important?

If you don’t maintain your HVAC system, you can find yourself living in uncomfortable temperatures at the most inopportune times. Lack of maintenance over time will cause your system to fail. Once it fails, it can be costly to repair, especially if you have to replace a condenser or evaporator coil. It could be something as simple as just dust and debris build-up or a filter change. Why take the chance of spending additional money?

Maintenance will help ensure that all parts of the system are working correctly and you don’t find yourself without heat in the middle of winter. Dust and debris is a natural occurrence in the outdoor components of the system, but too much debris is going to cause problems. The drain for the condensation that happens within your system also needs to be free and clear of clogs. Clogging can lead to excess water, which will eventually lead to more significant problems such as mold and mildew, and those cause respiratory issues.

Electrical connection and voltages are also crucial because damaged links and incorrect voltages can lead to damage to the HVAC system or worse it could lead to a fire. During maintenance, damage is prevented. Another essential reason for the maintenance is carbon monoxide; if exhaust vents are clogged, it can lead to carbon monoxide build-up.

Lastly, economics is a massive reason besides safety and efficiency to have your HVAC system maintained professionally. When your system works harder to perform and keep temperatures where you want them, the higher your heating and cooling bill is going to be. So to cut costs having proper routine maintenance is a good idea. Refrigerant levels are one of the biggest reasons that your system will work harder. Without the appropriate equipment to check it, you will never know until it’s too late.

It’s Never Too Late

Contact the pros at Good Deals Heating and Cooling to schedule your maintenance. Have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year. If you live in a climate that uses heating and cooling heavily, have the system serviced twice a year. Save your system and your pocketbook by having annual or biannual maintenance done. Call 215-947-1166 to schedule your appointment today.

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Back To School Lessons On Air Conditioning

August 19, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling air conditioning

While students are out on holiday, schools are fixing up their classrooms and hallways. It is the summertime, which means it’s hot in many regions of the country, especially in southern areas like Florida, Arizona, and California. When students come back in late August/early September, the summer heat is still around and affects the students. Research has shown that hot rooms make it difficult for students to study and pay attention to the teacher. Air conditioning can give plenty of relief, but only if the schools had adequate, fully functioning air conditioning.

Schools without adequate air conditioning higher temperatures by a few degrees, which can have adverse effects on students. For every 1-degree Fahrenheit increase, there is a 1% decrease in learning. One research study measured students PSAT scores. One group took the test in a classroom an averaged temperature and one group in a classroom two degrees higher. The average scores were higher from the students who had a cooler classroom. Other studies have focused on students taking general exams in certain conditions. In warm rooms, the chance of failing a test rises to 12%. Why? A person working in high temperatures loses concentration as they focus more on finding a way to cool down.

The problem with air conditioning is more prevalent in schools in low-income areas that are overpopulated. In these schools, classroom temperatures run one to three degrees hotter than in higher income schools with proper air conditioning. There is a racial factor because these low-income schools feature a higher percentage of minority students, namely, Hispanics and Blacks. White students were from higher income schools. Many of the schools are public, and the cost of installing a new air conditioning system is not within the school administration budget.

Air conditioning in schools is becoming more essential because of climate change. It is up to government officials to counter the rising temperature and focus on more Eco-friendly ways to use energy that allows air conditioning to work for all. Global increased temperatures mean that all students, regardless of where they are, will be affected. Improving school infrastructure should be an immediate “yes,” but local governments with numerous issues have yet to commit.

Anyone around hot temperatures can easily suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, and nausea. In the sweltering southern locations the heat lasts longer than in the north, and air conditioning is more critical in schools. Having the classrooms maintain a comfortable temperature improves students’ energy levels and increases the students’ ability to maintain focus.

For more information on air conditioning service, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Energy Saving HVAC Tips for Summer

August 5, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling energy saving HVAC

Most people assume that the cold winter weather is the most demanding on your HVAC system, but the summer is worse.

During the summer, most people wonder how to save money on the utility bill without sacrificing their comfort. Here are the tips to save energy and money this summer:

Replace Old HVAC Units With Energy Star Units

Investing in a new model might sound daunting, but it is well worth it. The latest models, especially those labeled with Energy Star Ratings, use 50% less the energy than the older models. They are more efficient and save you money over their lifespan.

Protect the HVAC Unit From Debris and Direct Sunlight

An outdoor HVAC unit should be debris free and in the shade, if possible. The hot summer weather brings weeds and overgrown vegetation. If plants get too close to the unit, they can affect the efficiency of the system.
The unit should be able to pull in air efficiently without resistance. Having debris and excess vegetation around the unit is dangerous and can cause damage to the system. The shade cuts energy consumption and helps the unit operate smoothly.

Clean Out Vents

It goes unnoticed sometimes. Some vents can be shut and never opened again. Check the vents, especially if there is an unusually warm area in the house. Cleaning the vents provides smooth airflow and keeps particulates from circulating through the home.

Clean the Air Filters

The winter weather can take a toll on the HVAC system. Air filters become clogged with dirt making it hard for the HVAC unit to operate. Make sure the air filters are clean and replace the damaged ones to help the unit run smoothly and efficiently using less energy.

Get a Programmable Thermostat

The programmable thermostat helps you control the HVAC unit even when no one is around. Don’t set the thermostat to keep the house cold when it’s empty. Set the temperature to match your schedule: warmer when away and cool down before returning home.

Other Tips

Having ceiling fans or standing fans can help circulate the air around the house to create a refreshing environment. Have the doors and windows sealed to avoid letting the cool air out and keep the blinds and drapes shut to keep out direct sunlight.

For more information on energy saving HVAC units, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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HVAC: Stay Cool in the Summer Heat

July 22, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC

With the temperatures rising and summer here to stay, it’s time to revisit the ways we beat the heat on a budget. There are so many ways you can help your HVAC unit out as it goes through one of the toughest seasons.

Keep a Maintenance Schedule

Your HVAC unit needs biannual tender loving care. Each year, before the busy season of summer, you should have an HVAC technician come and perform maintenance. This service may be a part of an HVAC maintenance contract. Having this maintenance done helps locate any potential issues before the increased usage that comes in the summer months.

Check the Air Filters

During the summer months, you should be checking the air filter every thirty days. When doing their job, these filters will catch dirt and debris that will eventually clog them, causing the HVAC unit to overwork. By keeping an eye on your filter and changing it when needed, you can save up to 15% on your HVAC’s energy consumption.

Check the Drainage Line

Just like the air filter, the HVAC drainage line will need to be cleared from time to time. When the drainage line gets blocked with debris, it can be difficult for the HVAC to alleviate indoor humidity. To fix this problem, get a shop vac and clean out the dust and dirt particulates. You should also occasionally pour bleach into the line to kill any algae or mildew growing inside of the line.

Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a budget saver. A smart thermostat allows you to set the thermostat for different temperatures throughout the day. You can save money by setting the temperature higher during the workday when no one is home, so the HVAC works less. Then let it begin cooling the house shortly before you come home. This device can save as much as 15% on your power bill each month.

Seal Windows and Doors

Sealing your windows and doors isn’t just for the wintertime anymore. Keep the cold air in by replacing your windows with energy efficient windows. This change can help lower your power bill by as much as 30% over a year.

For more information about summer HVAC service, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Air Conditioning and Your Summer Vacation

July 8, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling air conditioning

Summer is here and this is the time people start traveling on vacation. Holidays are exciting, but a few preparations around the house will allow peace of mind while relaxing. Items to include on the list are: arrange to have the mail held or picked up, contact a pet sitter, place lights on timers, and compile a packing list for the trip. When making this list, don’t forget about the HVAC system. Preparing the air conditioning system for the house to be empty for an extended period will save money and avoid problems while you’re away.

Turn Up the Thermostat

Summer heat can have a significant effect on wood flooring, doors, and cabinets. Don’t make the mistake of turning the AC system off in a bid to try and save energy. The summer heat and humidity can cause hardwood floors to expand and buckle, and wood doors to expand and not close properly. Save yourself the cost of repairs by turning up the thermostat setting to between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range will not damage plants or fabrics, and by keeping the HVAC running, the humidity will be controlled. If there is a programmable thermostat, program it to have the house return to a comfortable temperature a hours before returning.

Consider Surge Protection

While on vacation, losing power is a possibility. In case there is a power surge or outage in your area, and no one is around, the HVAC system might get damaged. Install a surge protector for the system to avoid that problem.

Schedule General Maintenance

Have a technician check the HVAC system before the summer season. A service technician will check the following: refrigerant levels, coils, air filters, electronic connections, and the system is producing the correct temperature across the evaporator coil. Knowing the HVAC is in optimal working condition while on vacation will lessen any worries.

Air Filter Routine Maintenance

Clean air filters before leaving. Clogged air filters cause the HVAC unit to overwork. Clean air filters prevent the system from malfunctioning while no one is around.

Reduce the Load

Computers and other electronics produce heat when they are running. Turn off or disconnect these items while away to reduce heat generated within the house. The HVAC system will turn on less frequently.

When anyone goes on vacation, they want to have some time away from home to relax. Follow these simple tips for, and you’ll have a worry-free vacation.

For more information on air conditioning maintenance, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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