How to Protect Your HVAC System from Summer Storms

Here in the Midwest, rain showers are not limited to just springtime.  Summer can bring its fair share of pop-up storms and that can be an issue for your HVAC system, especially if it is aged or worn out.  Even a new system can be at risk from damaging winds or electrical surges.  At Royal Heating and Air, we have a few tips to help you prepare and protect your HVAC system from storms.

Wind & Hail

The first threat to your HVAC system that we are going to talk about is wind and hail.  When the wind kicks up during a storm it can stir up debris of all sizes (or hail) and torpedo it against your outdoor condensing unit. Your condenser is made of tiny and delicate fins that can be easily bent or dented by flying debris.  If this happens it can seriously affect how efficiently your system functions. If you notice dents or dings on your outside condensing unit after a storm, it is recommended that you have an HVAC technician at the Lake of the Ozarks come out and inspect your system to see if repairs are needed.

Preventatively, it is a good idea to do what you can to keep your trees trimmed and your yard free of debris.  In an extreme situation, it may be best to shut off your HVAC system and cover it securely just until the storm passes.  However, it is important to uncover it before using your system again and before moisture and mold has a chance to accumulate.

Lightening

Lightening can be the most serious hazard to your HVAC system during a summer storm.  A strike at or nearby your home can damage or completely ruin your system’s components or wiring.  Of course, your system is hard wired in, so you can’t just plug it into a surge protector.  But you can add a whole-house surge protector, which will not only protect your HVAC system but everything that is plugged into your home’s electrical system.

Otherwise, your safest bet is to shut your thermostat off during an electrical storm and turn off the breaker to your system until the storm has passed. If your system is on during a power surge and the electricity goes off, and your air conditioner does not start back up when the electricity resumes, call Royal Heating and Air.  We prioritize emergency HVAC services the Lake of the Ozarks for our clients and will be happy to come out and help.  

Rain

Rain and moisture shouldn’t be an issue for a healthy HVAC system, but if one is old or worn out and has leaks or cracks where rain and humidity can get into moisture sensitive components, it is possible that normal rainstorms could cause problems.  You can help avoid unwanted surprise by scheduling a regular maintenance check with a reputable HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks. 

While you can’t control the weather, you can predict and prevent some of the risks to your HVAC system caused by summer storms.  We know how miserable it can get in the summer if your air conditioner goes out and as the king of comfort, we want you be able to weather the storms safely and comfortably.  For all your HVAC services at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can count on Royal Heating and Air.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Warning Signs That Your HVAC May Be in Need of Help – Time To Call a Professional.

Wondering if there is something seriously wrong with your HVAC system is very stressful.  But if you know the warning signs to look for you can feel confident knowing how to recognize when something is wrong, and whether or not it requires calling a professional.  As usual, prevention is cheaper that fixing a problem after it has gotten bigger.  So, we wanted to share some things with you to help you decide when it is time to have your HVAC system serviced at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Lack of regular maintenance.

Your HVAC system is one of the most important systems in your home, yet most people don’t really think about it until something goes wrong.  Lack of regular maintenance can actually be a warning sign all by itself.  We know regular maintenance on our cars is essential to keep them running and to prevent breakdowns or extend the life of the car.  The same is true for your HVAC system.  Routine maintenance checks reveal issues before they become big problems and can reduce the need for repairs.  Scheduling a routine HVAC maintenance check at Lake of the Ozarks is as simple as going online or calling Royal Heating and Air.  You can even get on a maintenance schedule, so we come out twice a year preventatively, so you don’t have to think about it at all.

Freezing coils.

Your air conditioner can literally freeze up, and although it seems counter intuitive, it is more likely to happen the hotter is it is outside.  We work our air conditioners harder in the heat and if the refrigerant is low, or there is dust or debris on the coils, they are less effective in absorbing the heat, causing them to get too cold, leading them to freeze the water condensing on them.  This situation can cause expensive damage in several different ways and is something you will want to have a professional HVAC technician at the Lake of the Ozarks inspect for you.

Blowing warm air - not keeping up.

If your system just seems to be ineffective at keeping up, that could be a sign of something small or major.  First, see if the thermostat responds.  Turn it down 10 degrees and see if the air conditioner kicks on.  If not, the problem is likely in the thermostat and may be a simple as changing batteries.  If it does kick on but still does not bring the temperature down, make sure all the breakers are on.  If they are, check to see if the coils are covered with dust or if the filter is clogged.  If after checking all those things there is still no change, it is time to call a trusted HVAC service company at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Leaks and clogs.

If you have refrigerant leaking from a damaged area in your HVAC unit, that can be a serious issue that only a professional should address.  Sometimes you may have water leaking from your air conditioner.  That can happen if the coils have frozen and then thawed, or if your drain pan is clogged.  No matter whether it is a clog, or thawing coils, or leaking refrigerant, scheduling HVAC maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks will be the answer.

Other.

In general, if you notice unusual odors, like the smell of something burning or a musty smell, those are signs that something isn’t right.  If you hear strange noises like banging or grinding or whining or screeching, that is not normal and should be looked in to.  If you are just not getting the air flow that you should, or the air in your home is stuffy and steamy because air conditioning is not removing enough humidity from the air … these are all signs that your HVAC unit is not functioning properly and is need of a checkup.

Just like with your cars, preventative maintenance is key to making sure your HVAC unit will function and last the way it was made to.  Taking care of your HVAC system couldn’t be easier than it is with Royal Heating and Air.  Whether you want a one-time service visit, or you want to sign up for regular maintenance checks, all it takes is a phone call or online request.  It is our goal to keep you comfortable year-round, after all, we are the king of comfort!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Stop Summer Humidity in the House!

Summers in Missouri can be extremely hot and humid, which can cause a lot of discomfort in the house. Too much humidity can damage your HVAC, cause mold to grow, and affect your indoor air quality. Royal Heating & Air is the best HVAC Company at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we are here to help give you advice on how to control the humidity in your home this summer. Keep reading to learn more!

Use a Dehumidifier

If the house is humid, then there is a lot of moisture in the air that can cause issues. Using a dehumidifier can take some of the moisture out of the air so that allergens, mold, and other bad materials won't build up. They run quietly so that they don't disturb your daily activities. 

Allergen Reduction

Dehumidifiers reduce humidity levels. When the air inside your home is overly muggy in the summer months, it could be a sign that moist air is finding its way into your home. When your home has the proper humidity level, it is less hospitable to allergens such as dust mites, mold, and mildew. Dehumidifiers reduce irritation to your skin and your respiratory system, allowing you to breathe easier and feel comfortable in your home.

Mold Growth Prevention

A dehumidifier helps keep the moisture levels in your home low. Excessive moisture (that often occurs during the humid summer months) increases condensation on windows and walls, which leads to mold growth and has the potential to damage your home and your health. Moisture is required for mold to thrive; therefore, keeping your home at the proper humidity level is key in mold prevention. Using a dehumidifier reduces the possibility that mold will develop in your home on the walls, your furniture, your clothes, etc. Mold can also develop in your air conditioning system, so lowering the humidity levels can prevent that from happening and prevent you from breathing in contaminated air.

Lower Energy Costs

Dehumidifiers can aid in lowering your energy costs because they help your air conditioner run more efficiently. When the air is more humid, the AC unit must not only cool the air, but also remove moisture, which means it has to work harder. When your AC system is working harder to cool your home, it can cause your air conditioning system to wear out sooner, meaning you will need to replace and repair it more often. Also, when humidity levels are high, it can make the air in your home feel warmer than it really is. This may cause you to turn your cooling system up. By ensuring your home has the proper humidity level, you can reduce the amount of energy used and keep your air conditioning system working at a steady pace. This can save you money in energy and repair costs.

HVAC Maintenance

Because your HVAC system removes moisture from the air as it flows through your home, it's important to keep your system running as efficiently as possible. Royal Heating & Air can come out to your house and inspect your air conditioning unit to make sure everything is in good condition so that you have a comfortable, cool home all summer long!

Best HVAC at the Lake

Schedule service for your HVAC system regularly to make sure your system is performing at its optimal efficiency. This will help it last longer, prevent mold, and help keep the house comfortable even when it's hot and sticky outside. Ensure that your home is safe and comfortable by calling Royal Heating & Air today!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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HVAC Red Flags to Watch for this Summer!

Summer is for enjoying the beautiful outdoors, barbecues, time with family, and fun in the sunshine. Worrying about air conditioning emergencies is the last thing you want to do. Royal Heating & Air is the best HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we are here to help you enjoy every season with effective maintenance, professional repairs, and quality HVAC products. Make sure you are prepared for a great summer by checking out these HVAC red flags that commonly show up during the summer months.

A Neglected System

While this may not seem like an obvious red flag, not maintaining your HVAC system throughout the year can cause serious issues. If you haven't had a professional technician check on your HVAC system in over a year, then this could be your first big red flag. HVAC systems tend to be the most overlooked appliance in a home, even though it could also be considered one of the most important. Many people don't think about their HVAC system until there is a major problem that require expensive repairs. Make sure your system is doing well and operating the way it's supposed to by calling Royal Heating & Air for a summer air conditioning check-up.

Freezing Coils

If your air conditioning is running in overdrive, then it could start to struggle. If the AC is overworked and set at a temperature that is too low, then the system could freeze up. Frozen coils should get immediate attention from a professional HVAC technician. If your system continues running with frozen coils, then the problem could get even worse and cause expensive damage. 

Unresponsive Unit

If you notice that your home feels warmer than usual despite being set at the same temperature, it's a good idea to check and make sure the outdoor unit is responding properly. If you find out that the unit isn't turning on, then you should take the following steps first: (1) make sure the thermostat is functioning, (2) make sure the settings are correct and the system is turned on, (3) double-check that the breakers are all on. If you have tried all these things and the outdoor unit still isn't responding, then that is another big red flag. It's time to call Royal Heating & Air!

Leaks and Clogs

Your HVAC system uses fluids to keep your home cool and comfortable. Sometimes those fluids can get clogged inside the condensate lines or leak from damaged areas on the unit. If your unit is leaking, then it's important that you call a local HVAC technician to come and inspect the unit as soon as possible. You can also help prevent this from becoming an issue in the first place by scheduling a maintenance check with Royal Heating & Air. We can help catch small flaws before they become serious, costly problems!

HVAC Repair at the Lake

If your air conditioning stops working this summer, call Royal Heating & Air! We are the best HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks and we are here to help you. You can also help stop damage from getting out of control by watching for red flags and scheduling regular HVAC maintenance.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Summer Tips For Your HVAC System

It’s looking like this summer is going to be a hot one! We went from winter straight to summer and bypassed spring altogether. These last few weeks have consistently been in the 80s and 90s, and Royal Heating & Air knows that it’s extremely important to make sure your HVAC system is able to keep you cool all summer long. The best heating and cooling company at the Lake of the Ozarks has a few tips to make sure your AC won’t fail on you this summer.

Summer Tips for Your HVAC System

It’s important to keep your outside unit free and clear of debris. During the fall and winter, leaves, twigs, and other debris may have gotten stuck in and around your AC unit. Before the season really kicks into high gear, make sure your AC unit is clear of any debris. It’s also a good idea to make sure you clear away lawn clippings after doing any yard work.

Check your air filter. While you may not have to change it every time, it's best to check the air filters at least once a month. If you have pets, children or you smoke, you may need to change it more often. When the air filter is dirty, it makes your HVAC system work harder, which could cause it to have issues or breakdown prematurely.

Clean the vents. Just like a dirty air filter, having dirty vents could also cause your HVAC system to work overtime. Cleaning your vents isn't something you need to do on a regular basis, but it's a good idea to clean them at least twice a year. However, just like with the air filter, under certain circumstances, you may need to have your air vents professionally cleaned more often. When you have your air vents cleaned, you'll see a difference not only in the performance of your HVAC system but also with the quality of your home's indoor air.

Seal up your home. No matter the season, it's a good idea to ensure your home is properly sealed. During the winter, it will help keep your home nice and cozy, while in the summer, it will help keep the cold are inside. Check all the window and door frames in your home. Take caulk and seal up any areas where you can feel a breeze. Besides checking the frames, make sure the weather stripping along the bottom of your doors are intact.

Call "The King of Comfort."

The best way to ensure your home's AC unit will last all summer long is to call the best HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks. It's important to get your AC unit serviced to ensure it's working properly at the beginning of the season. While your unit may turn on and work, there could be an internal issue you're not aware of that could cause it to break down. Royal Heating & Air can ensure the AC unit's coils are clean and everything is working properly. Don't spend the summer worrying about your AC unit and call the best HVAC repair company at the Lake of the Ozarks today.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Protect Your AC From The Summer Heat

With temperatures nearing the 100s, AC units will be humming along all over the Lake area. We want to make sure the summer heat doesn't make your AC unit overwork. If your AC unit isn't performing efficiently, the extreme heat may cause it to overwork. Luckily, with just a few simple steps, we can help you beat the heat and keep your AC from overworking and running more efficiently.

1. Check the Filters

It's best to check the air filters once a month and change as necessary. Replacing the air filter is one of the easiest and most effective methods of conserving energy and saving money on your energy bills. It's a critical step in maintaining your system. It's important to regularly change the filter, as they get clogged with dust and other contaminants. If your filter becomes clogged, your system will have to work harder to supply the same amount of cool air. In addition, a dirty filter can cause cold air to get caught in the system, which can cause it to freeze up and stop working.

2. Keep AC Unit in the Shade

Making sure your AC unit is in a shaded area can help make it run more efficiently. Air in shaded spaces is cooler, which means that the AC unit will have an easier time cooling the air.

3. Don't Keep Thermostat in Heat

It's important to keep the thermostat away from heat producing appliances like lamps and TV sets. The thermostat would sense the heat coming off these appliances, which would cause the AC unit to run longer than necessary. When installing the thermostat, be thoughtful of the location. If it's placed near a window, the sun might shine on it also causing the AC unit to run longer.

4. Is it Time To Upgrade?

If your AC unit is over ten years old, it may not be very efficient in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. Newer models are much more energy efficient and can keep your home comfortable no matter the temperature outside. If you have decided to replace your current AC unit, it's important to make sure it's the right size for your home. If your AC is too large for your home, it will cycle on and off more frequently, which will reduce the efficiency of the system.

5. Seal It Up

Make sure the cold air stays inside by properly insulating your home. In addition to ensuring there is enough insulation in the attic and around the air ducts, seal up any cracks and crevices around the windows and door frames with caulking. If your home is not weatherized, you could be wasting precious cold air during the summer months, which could make your AC unit work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

6. Call An HVAC Professional

The best way to make sure your AC unit is prepared for the summer heat is to have a professional Lake of the Ozarks HVAC technician take a look at your system. Royal Heating & Air can ensure that your system is prepared for even the hottest of days. Call us today at 573-480-4313 to schedule your service appointment.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

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

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