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Selecting the Best HVAC System in Southern Florida

Published: 24 March 2024
Written by Now Air Conditioning
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Categories: Education

Best HVAC Contractor in Wellington FloridaSelecting the right southern Florida HVAC system is important for maintaining year-round comfort in the region’s hot and humid climate. The right HVAC system can help you stay cool during scorching summers while effectively managing humidity levels. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a southern Florida HVAC system.

Climate & Southern Florida HVAC Systems

Southern Florida experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from the high 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. Humidity levels often exceed 70%, especially during the summer months. The salty, coastal air can cause corrosion to exterior appliances which reduce lifespan.

Southern Florida’s climate requires HVAC systems to work harder to keep your home comfortable . As a result, you need to choose an HVAC systems capable of effectively cooling and dehumidifying the air while tolerating the corrosive effects of salt air.

Assessing Your Home’s Needs

Before selecting an HVAC system, consider your home’s size, layout, and existing climate control features. Consider factors such as square footage, number of rooms, ceiling heights, insulation quality, and window efficiency. These measurements will help determine the appropriate size and type of HVAC system for your home.

When thinking of your home’s needs, pay attention to any specific features that may affect HVAC system installation. For example, older homes with limited space or no existing ductwork may require alternative HVAC solutions, such as ductless mini-split systems. Additionally, homes located in flood-prone areas may require elevated HVAC equipment to prevent water damage during hurricanes or heavy rainfall.

Types of HVAC Systems

Central Air Conditioning Systems

Traditional central AC systems consist of an outdoor unit and indoor air handler connected by ductwork. While central AC offers whole-house cooling, it may not be suitable for homes without existing ductwork or with limited space. Homeowners considering central AC should ensure their ductwork is properly sized and sealed to maximize efficiency.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Ductless mini-split systems provide cooling (and heating) without ductwork, making them ideal for homes with limited space or no existing ductwork. Each indoor unit can be independently controlled, allowing for customizable comfort in different areas of the home. Ductless mini-split systems are also energy-efficient and offer easy installation compared to traditional central AC systems.

Energy Efficiency

A photo of a light bulb. Southern Florida HVAC | Now Air Conditioning

Selecting an energy-efficient HVAC system helps reduce utility bills and environmental impact. Look for systems with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings and ENERGY STAR® certification to ensure optimal efficiency and performance. Energy-efficient HVAC systems not only save money on monthly energy bills but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

Humidity Control

Effective humidity control is crucial for Southern Florida homes. Look for HVAC systems with features such as variable-speed air handlers and dehumidification settings to maintain comfortable indoor humidity levels. High humidity levels can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and indoor air quality issues, so it’s essential to choose an HVAC system capable of effectively managing humidity levels year-round.

Additional Features and Options

Consider additional features such as programmable thermostats, air purification systems, and zoning capabilities to enhance comfort and indoor air quality. Programmable thermostats allow you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routine, reducing energy consumption when you’re away from home. Air purification systems remove airborne contaminants such as dust, pollen, and pet dander, improving indoor air quality for allergy sufferers and respiratory health.

Zoning capabilities allow you to divide your home into separate temperature zones, allowing for customized comfort in different areas. This feature is especially beneficial for larger homes or multi-story residences with varying heating and cooling needs. Smart HVAC technologies offer convenience and energy savings by allowing remote control and automation of system functions via smartphone apps or voice commands.

Budget Considerations

Set a realistic budget for purchasing and installing your new HVAC system, considering long-term cost savings and return on investment. While upfront costs may seem daunting, investing in a high-quality HVAC system can save money on energy bills and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements down the line. Obtain multiple quotes from reputable HVAC contractors to ensure competitive pricing and quality service.

Hire a Professional

Hire a licensed and experienced HVAC contractor like Now Air Conditioning to install and maintain your HVAC system. We will assess your home’s specific needs, recommend appropriate HVAC solutions, and ensure proper installation and ongoing maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.

Choosing the right HVAC system for your Southern Florida home requires careful consideration of factors such as climate, home size, efficiency, and budget. By understanding your home’s needs and exploring available options, you can select an HVAC system that provides optimal comfort, efficiency, and durability for years to come. Investing in the right HVAC system, including annual maintenance included in our cost-effective subscription membership, will enhance your quality of life, and comfort and sustainability if your home.

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How to Clean Outdoor Air Conditioner Unit in 30 Minutes

Published: 20 March 2024
Written by Now Air Conditioning
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Categories: Maintenance

How to Clean Outdoor Air Conditioner Unit in 30 Minutes by Local HVAC Contractor in Wellington FloridaWhether it’s pollen, fallen leaves, or cottonwood, environment debris makes it necessary to clean outdoor air conditioners. Environmental debris in your AC doesn’t just look unsightly; it can significantly affect your unit’s efficiency and effectiveness.

Why clean outdoor air conditioners?

An outdoor unit choked with dirt and debris struggles to perform its essential functions: namely, expelling heat from inside your home. This inefficiency can lead to longer run times and higher energy bills. It’s a classic case of the unit working harder, not smarter. Interestingly, a unit might appear spotless from a distance but be concealing layers of dirt between its fins. This hidden debris can cause your system to overheat and even shorten its lifespan.

Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Outdoor Air Conditioner

Preparation

Your safety is paramount. Before attempting any maintenance tasks, ensure the power supply to the unit is completely turned off. Preparing the unit often involves removing the top grill – this might require some basic tools – and carefully placing it aside so you have full access to the interior.

Cleaning Process

The most important step to clean outdoor air conditioners is washing the unit from the inside out with a gentle rinse from a garden hose. Think of it like a concentrated, consistent rain storm to clean your AC. This approach forces debris out the way it came in, preventing further clogging. It’s an enlightening before-and-after experience, visually demonstrating just how much debris had been affecting your unit’s performance.

Avoid Pressure Washer

As much as you’d like to, don’t use a pressure washer to clean your whole home AC. The intense pressure can bend or crush the delicate metal fins on your coil. A gentle stream of water from a garden hose is usually sufficient. Aim for thoroughness over intensity; it’s about displacing dirt without damaging parts.

Finishing Touches

After rinsing, ensure all components are back in their proper places and that the unit’s cover is securely reattached. While perfection in debris removal isn’t necessary – or often practical – clearing most of it away works wonders for efficiency.

Additional Maintenance Advice

Consider the space around your outdoor unit – maintaining at least a two-foot clearance on all sides ensures optimal performance and minimizes risks of re-clogging. Regularly trimming nearby bushes or removing potential blockages helps maintain this clearing.

Special Considerations

A word of caution: Avoid directing water at the motor or any electrical components directly. These parts don’t take kindly to moisture and may rust or malfunction if they’re not adequately protected during cleaning.

Remember too that there’s no need to wait for complete drying before turning your system back on; normal operating conditions will take care of any residual dampness.

Closing Thoughts

Regular maintenance such as this not only ensures that your air conditioner can do its job but also contributes to a longer operational lifespan: a win-win situation for homeowners aiming for comfort without unnecessary expense.

Interested in more hassle-free maintenance solutions? Consider Now Air Conditioning’s membership plan which includes a free annual tune-up among other benefits designed to keep your AC system humming smoothly all year round.

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5 Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner is Outside

Published: 4 March 2024
Written by Now Air Conditioning
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Categories: Education

How to properly clean your exterior HVAC unit. Learn from best HVAC contractor in Wellington FloridaImagine stepping into a cool oasis on a sweltering summer day. That’s the magic of air conditioners. But have you ever been curious why your air conditioner is outside your home? After all, other large appliances such as furnaces and water heaters are usually found indoors.

An air conditioner, similar to a refrigerator, doesn’t actually generate cool air. Instead, it acts as a heat pump, transferring heat from inside your home to the outside, leaving you feeling comfortable. This two-part process involves the indoor unit (evaporator coil) and the outdoor unit (condenser unit).

The indoor unit absorbs heat from the air circulating through it. This heated refrigerant is then pumped outside to the condenser unit, where the real work begins. But why isn’t the entire system contained indoors?

The condenser unit’s primary function is to expel the heat absorbed from inside your home. It accomplishes this by radiating heat through coils and transferring it to the outside air using a fan. If the condenser unit were located indoors, it would simply be dumping that heat back into your living space, defeating the entire purpose of air conditioning!

This problem could likely be overcome with some modern engineering. However, there are four more (and very important) reasons why your air conditioner is outside.

More Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Outside

You might be wondering why air conditioner units are so big, even in homes with relatively moderate square footage. The size of an AC unit is crucial to ensure it can adequately cool your entire home. An undersized unit would constantly run but struggle to maintain the desired temperature, leading to inefficiency and increased energy costs. Conversely, an oversized unit might cool your home too quickly, leading to short cycling (rapid on-and-off cycles) that can reduce efficiency and lifespan.

Maintaining tranquility

The condenser unit’s fan can generate significant noise. Having it outdoors keeps noise pollution away from your living space, contributing to a calmer and more comfortable environment. You can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of your home, even during the hottest days.

Optimizing space

Condenser units can be quite large and bulky, often resembling metal boxes with fins. Installing them outdoors frees up valuable indoor space for furniture, storage, or even a fun indoor leisure activity area. This can be particularly beneficial in homes with limited square footage.

Enhancing efficiency

Outdoor air is generally cooler than indoor air. This temperature difference allows the condenser unit to transfer heat more efficiently, improving the overall effectiveness of your AC system. By having access to cooler outdoor air, the unit doesn’t have to work as hard to expel heat, resulting in lower energy consumption and potentially lower electricity bills.

Air Conditioners Need Adequate Clearance

Just like any other machine, air conditioners need proper airflow to function effectively. The condenser unit relies on the fan to draw in cool air, remove heat from the refrigerant, and then expel the hot air. If the unit is too close to walls, fences, or other obstructions, airflow can become restricted. This can lead to several issues:

A photo of several measuring tapes crisscrossed over each other. 5 Essential Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Outside. Now Air Conditioning | Heating Repair in Wellington, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton and the surrounding area.
  • Reduced efficiency: Restricted airflow makes it harder for the unit to expel heat, forcing it to work harder and consume more energy.
  • Increased wear and tear: The extra effort required to operate under restricted airflow can put strain on the compressor and other components, potentially leading to premature wear and tear and even breakdowns.
  • Higher operating temperatures: When the unit can’t expel heat effectively, internal temperatures can rise, exceeding safe operating limits and potentially leading to component failure.

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, it’s crucial to maintain proper clearance around your outdoor unit as recommended by the manufacturer and local building codes. This typically involves leaving at least 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides of the unit and keeping the area free of debris, plants, and other obstructions.

Understanding why your air conditioner is outside will give you a leg up in ensuring your DIY maintenance schedule is keeping your unit at peak performance. In southern Florida, having a smoothly running and efficient AC is an absolute necessity. Now Air Conditioning offers an affordable HVAC subscription service that provides you with priority emergency service, no dispatch fees, complementary annual inspection and tune-up, as well as exclusive discounts on parts, labor and more.

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HVAC Maintenance Guide for First-Time Homeowners

Published: 22 February 2024
Written by Now Air Conditioning
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Categories: Maintenance

HVAC Maintenance for First-Time Homeowners: Comprehensive 4 Seasons Guide

This article includes a Comprehensive 4 Seasons Guide to maintaining your HVAC system.

Congratulations! You’ve achieved the dream of homeownership, but with the excitement comes responsibility. Proper HVAC maintenance is key to attaining a comfortable indoor environment, and consistent maintenance saves you time, money, and trouble down the road. By following these steps, you can ensure your home stays comfortable and your wallet happy.

Move-In HVAC Maintenance: Laying the Foundation

Before unpacking the boxes, dedicate time to crucial maintenance tasks:

  • Deep Clean: Dust mites and allergens lurk in hidden corners. A thorough cleaning (including walls, baseboards, and appliances) removes these irritants and sets the stage for better air quality. Consider professional carpet cleaning for an extra boost.
  • Filter Freshness: Start with clean air filters! Replace them before moving in, and remember to change them every 30-60 days thereafter. This ensures your system breathes efficiently and delivers cleaner air.
  • Mastering the Utilities: Familiarize yourself with the control panels or shut-off valves for water and electricity. Knowing their locations is crucial for future emergencies or maintenance. Check your home inspection report for guidance, and remember:
    • Main water shut-off valves are often near the exterior perimeter, facing the street.
    • Some homes have additional curb valves near the street or property line.

Seasonal Maintenance: A Year-Round Commitment

Maintaining your HVAC system throughout the year requires a proactive approach. Here’s a breakdown of essential do-it-yourself tasks for each season:

Spring

  • Safety First: Test your carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. These detectors can provide life-saving early warnings for problems in your HVAC system or other sources of carbon monoxide.
  • Cleanliness is Key: Remove debris from the AC condensation drain line using diluted bleach. Keeping this line clean will ensure mold and mildew don’t damage your system or circulate your indoor air.
  • Clearance Crew: Ensure your outdoor AC unit has ample space for airflow by removing leaves and debris. Small sticks, leaves, or blown debris can get stuck in your AC unit causing malfunctions and costly repairs.

Summer

  • Protect Your Investment: When not in use, cover your air conditioning unit to protect it from the elements.
  • Drainage Watchdog: After storms, inspect downspouts, gutters, and roofs to prevent water damage to your system.
  • Fresh Air Flow: Vacuum bathroom exhaust fan vents regularly to remove dust and ensure proper ventilation.
  • Clean Coils, Cool Comfort: Vacuum freezer and refrigerator coils for efficient operation and clean drip trays to prevent leaks.

Fall

  • Exterior Defense: Rake leaves and clear debris around your outdoor unit to prevent airflow obstruction.
  • Internal Checkup: Inspect insulation around pipes and ducts for potential leaks and gaps that could impact efficiency.

Winter

  • Seal the Deal: Seal air leaks around windows and doors to prevent drafts and improve heating efficiency.
  • Insulation Matters: Inspect and, if necessary, top up insulation in attics and crawl spaces to retain heat and reduce energy bills.
 

Partner with Now Air Conditioning

Partner with Now Air Conditioning for professional HVAC maintenance to keep your home in ideal comfort. | A photograph of a modern, clean kitchen with stainless steel appliances, white counters, and black accents.

When you combine routine DIY HVAC maintenance with the annual maintenance offered by Now Air Conditioning’s membership, you’ll improve your home’s HVAC performance, lower utility bills, enhance air quality, and reduce the risk of costly repairs down the road. Our annual maintenance membership offers:

  • Expert Inspection: Our trained technicians thoroughly inspect your system, identifying potential issues before they become costly problems.
  • Performance Optimization: Your membership includes a complimentary annual tune-ups to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
  • Peace of Mind: With an annual membership, you’ll receive priority scheduling with no trip charges if your HVAC system isn’t working exactly as you need.

Consistent HVAC maintenance is not just about comfort; it’s an investment in your home’s value and your well-being. By following these guidelines and partnering with Now Air Conditioning, you can ensure your HVAC system serves you faithfully, season after season. 

Bonus HVAC Maintenance Tips:

  • Invest in a programmable thermostat for automatic temperature control and energy savings.
  • Consider smart home technology for remote monitoring and control of your HVAC system.
  • Regularly monitor your energy bills for any sudden spikes that could indicate potential problems.

By incorporating these additional steps, you’ll keep your HVAC running smoothly year round.

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