Royal Heating & Air: June 2017

Weather & Your Air Conditioner

Your AC unit is a valuable part of your home, especially during the summer months. However, summer in the Midwest is also a time for storms. HVAC systems are huge investments, so it's only natural to be concerned about our outside units during thunderstorms. From hail to lightning, there are dangers around every corner for our AC units during summer storms. Royal Heating & Air takes a look at how weather can affect our AC units and how we can protect them.

Summer Storms

There are some components in your AC unit that could be damaged by moisture. Luckily, these parts are well protected from the elements. It can rain all day and night without an issue, and on top of that, most AC units can withstand temporary flooding of several inches.

Although, if there's flooding that is a foot or deeper, that could pose a greater risk of damage. If this happens, shut off all power to your HVAC system at the breaker immediately and schedule an inspection and service with a professional HVAC technician at the Lake of the Ozarks after the water subsides.

In addition to water, your AC unit can also handle some abuse from hail or windblown debris. A couple dents in the exterior of the unit won't do much harm, however, a Lake of the Ozarks HVAC technician should inspect the damage to be sure. Some dents, especially to coils and fins, can hurt the energy efficiency and needs to be repaired.

If possible, a quick inspection of your yard before a storm for any loose branches or other debris could help tremendously. A big part of preventing damage is throwing away or securing items before the wind begins to pick up.

Cover It Up

If you're concerned about the risk of damage, you could invest in an AC unit cover. These are designed to protect AC units from the elements or debris. However, it's important to make sure you purchase a cover designed for your system, as homemade covers could inhibit airflow and do more damage to your system. If your cover doesn't allow proper airflow, it could trap moisture in the unit leading to corrosion and mold growth. Don't place anything on top of the AC unit like plywood, as it could block vents or trap heat, which could make your system run inefficiently and cause wear on the moving parts.

The Real Danger

The biggest threat to your AC unit is the one that attacks your system from the inside: power surges. During electrical storms, a surge of electricity could fry some of the more sensitive internal components of the HVAC system. While you can't protect your HVAC system with a power strip, there is still a way to keep it safe. A whole home surge protection system could protect your HVAC system from electrical storms.

Your AC unit can help keep you comfortable all summer long, rain or shine. However, if you do run into trouble, Royal Heating & Air is just a phone call away ready to help. Your Lake of the Ozark heating and cooling company can help you with everything from regular maintenance to full HVAC installations, plus we also offer 24/7 emergency service. Don't be left in the heat, call the King of Comfort at 573-480-4313.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com
CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

Tips On Preparing Your HVAC System For Summer Vacation

Summer is gearing up and people are packing their bags getting ready for their vacations. However, there is an important part of getting ready for a vacation that often gets overlooked - the HVAC system. Your Lake of the Ozarks heating and cooling company has a few tips on how to get your HVAC system ready for your vacation.

1. Check The Air Filter

It's best to check the air filter at least once a month and change it as necessary. It's important to check the air filter before you leave for an extended period of time. When filters are clogged with debris, airflow is restricted, which causes your AC unit to work harder to cool your home. When you're away, you can't notice the signs of restricted airflow, which includes:

- HVAC system running more often or for longer periods of time
- Loud noises
- Warm air being supplied from the vents
- Excessive build-up of dust and dirt

2. Adjust The Thermostat

Contrary to popular belief, you should run your AC while you're away. When the HVAC doesn't engage for long periods of time, your home is susceptible to moisture buildup and mold development. The HVAC system is designed to run regularly, so when it doesn't engage for long periods of time, it can actually damage your equipment and shorten its lifespan. When you're away, raise the thermostat no more than 5 degrees. A programmable thermostat can help you maximize efficiency even while you're away.

3. Check The Outside Unit

Before leaving, it's important to make sure the outside unit is taken care of. Ensure there is no debris around the outside unit that would restrict airflow. In addition, make sure nearby shrubbery is well trimmed and clear of any leaves, limbs or grass clippings from your HVAC system. While clearing away any debris, take the time to ensure your outside unit is not damaged or leaking. If any issues are spotted, contact a professional HVAC repair company at the Lake of the Ozarks. If the issues go without repair, it could make them worse, and you don't want to return from vacation to a catastrophic HVAC failure.

4. Be Prepared For Storms

Thunderstorms are a common occurrence in the Midwest during the summer months, so make sure your home is prepared for any that may pop up before you leave for your trip. If there are any low hanging limbs or unsecured structures near your home or AC unit, have them removed before you leave. Although you can't control nature, it's important to be prepared and do what you can to avoid returning home to a storm damaged HVAC system.

5. Close The Windows & Curtains

Before taking off, ensure all the windows are closed not only for safety, but also to help with energy efficiency. In addition, ensure the windows and door frames are sealed up to ensure the cool air stays in while you're away. Closing curtains and blinds will help regulate the temperature of your home while on vacation.

6. Open The Vents

HVAC systems are designed to maximize airflow, so even in rooms that are seldom used should have the vents open. Before leaving on vacation, check every room to ensure all the vents are open.

7. Vacuum Your Home

While you're away, dust and allergens will collect, so it's important for your home's air quality to vacuum before leaving for vacation.

The best way to make sure your HVAC system is ready for your vacation is to call Royal Heating & Air at 573-480-4313. Our expert technicians can take a look at your HVAC system and make sure there are no issues. We want to ensure you don't come home to any surprises involving your HVAC system.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com
CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

HVAC Maintenance Tips Pet Owners Should Know

For many of us, pets have become a part of our family. They bring us joy, unconditional love and companionship. As pet owners, we have taken on a responsibility of providing them with a safe and loving home. This means feeding them healthy meals, giving them delicious treats and providing them with enough exercise. In addition, owning a pet also requires putting in a little more work when it comes to your home's HVAC maintenance. Your Lake of the Ozarks HVAC repair company has a few tips to help keep your HVAC system happy as well as your pets.

Keep Your Pets Clean

Bathing your pets regularly can go a long way in improving the quality of your home's air. Pet dander is one of the major causes of allergies, so it's important to regularly pick up pet hair, as well as bath and groom your pets. Pet dander can be recirculated throughout your air ducts causing a perpetual problem.

Check The Air Filters

It's important to regularly pick up pet hair, as they can quickly clog up the air filter. The air filter's job is to remove dust particles and other contaminants from the air. However, once the air filter gets too dirty and clogged, it can't do its job, which could make the HVAC system overwork. It's no secret that dogs and cats shed a lot, so it's important to check the filter once a month and change them as necessary. If your home has pets, you may need to change the air filter more often.

Use The Right Air Filters

Air filters have an important job of keeping the air in your home clean, so you want to make sure you use the appropriate filters for your HVAC system. There are many different air filters to choose from, including some that are designed for homes with pets. If you're unsure about which filter is best for your home, contact a professional HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Check For Loose Wires

There are lots of parts that make your HVAC system work properly, including a lot of wires. These wires, if exposed, could look like a fun toy to a kitten or puppy, which could be a recipe for disaster. It's important to take a good look at your system and make sure there isn't anything that they could get to.

Keep Outside Unit Enclosed

If your dog is able to free roam your yard, this could pose a number of problems not only for the outside unit, but to your furry friend as well. Dogs could scratch the condenser's fans with their claws, which could injure your pup and cause issues for the condenser unit. In addition, if your dog decides to mark the condenser unit, the urine could lead to refrigerant leaks or corrosion in the unit.

Have The Air Ducts Cleaned

It's best to have your air ducts professionally cleaned at least once a year, however, if you have pets, you may need to do this more often. Because the air ducts take the air from the HVAC system and transport it throughout your home, you want to ensure it's transporting clean air throughout your house. If the ducts in your home are dirty with pet hair and dander, then it will just continually be circulated throughout your home.

Seal The Air Ducts

If the air ducts in your home have gaps and cracks, it gives pet hair and dander an easy access to your ducts. As mentioned earlier, when your air ducts are filled with pet hair and dander, it will be continuously circulated through the air in your home. Sealing the ducts will remedy those gaps and cracks and keep debris from entering the ductwork.

At Royal Heating & Air, we want to make sure your heating and cooling system is working efficiently to keep your family (including our furry family members) comfortable. To schedule an appointment with one of our expert HVAC technicians at the Lake of the Ozarks, call 573-480-4313.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com
CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

5 Signs It's Time To Upgrade Your AC Unit

If you're a homeowner, one of the toughest decisions you'll have to make about your air conditioner is when it's time to get a new unit. A new AC unit can be expensive, but so can the costs of repairing an old one. So how are you supposed to tell when it's time to upgrade? Here are 5 signs to help you make that decision.

1. Your System Is Over 10 Years Old

Around the 10-year mark, it's a good idea to begin to think about upgrading your system. A typical AC unit that is well taken care of can last around 15 years. However, if the system doesn't get regular maintenance, it could be less than that.

2. It Frequently Breaks Downs

It's best to have a professional Lake of the Ozarks HVAC repair company service your HVAC system at least twice a year. However, if you're having to call them constantly for breakdowns, it may be time to replace your system. Repair costs can add up and become expensive. Compare the cost of repairing the unit with the cost of replacing. In addition, your new unit may actually save on energy costs so you may find that a brand new AC unit could actually be cheaper in the end.

3. The Utility Bills Are Increasing

If your energy bills are increasing, it could be because of your AC unit. If your cooling system is working too hard, it could cause your energy bill to increase. Upgrading your unit to a more energy efficient model could end up saving you money in the long run.

4. Your Home Isn't Cool Enough

If your AC isn't cooling your home enough for your needs, there are two likely causes. First, your AC unit may be dirty, or poorly maintained and needs to have maintenance. It's best to have your AC unit serviced once a year, typically in the spring, for optimum performance. If servicing your unit doesn't solve the issue, your AC unit may be improperly sized for your home. A unit that is too small for your square footage, won't be able to keep your home cool. An HVAC professional at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you determine the appropriate size unit for your home. Upgrading to a properly sized unit can make a dramatic difference in your home comfort.

5. Your System Uses R-22 Freon

R22 Freon is being phased out by the federal government in order to conserve energy nationwide. As a result, the cost of freon is rising. If your AC unit uses R22 Freon, you'll have to replace it eventually in order to switch over to the new refrigerant. If you're having major problems with your AC unit, especially if it involved the need for more freon, it's probably a good time to replace your unit.

Royal Heating & Air is here for all your heating and cooling needs from preventative maintenance to installations. To speak with one of our expert HVAC technicians at the Lake of the Ozarks, call us today at 573-480-4313.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com
CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313