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Posts Tagged ‘HVAC Maintenance’

5 Reasons Why Modern Air Conditioners Are More Energy-Efficient

An air conditioner often takes up a significant portion of your energy bill. Keeping your home cool can be especially expensive during the summer months. One way to keep these costs down is to invest in a modern air conditioner for your home. New air conditioner models are much more energy efficient compared to older systems, and you can often save anywhere from 20% to 40% on your utility bill. 

Most air conditioners will last 15-20 years before needing a replacement. An HVAC company specializing in air conditioning services can easily install a brand-new unit for your home. Learning more about the different technological advances for modern air conditioners is well worth your time if you are considering an upgrade.

Here are the main reasons why modern air conditioners are more energy efficient.

air conditioning services

1) Smart Thermostats

 Smart thermostats have become much more popular in recent years as they allow homeowners greater control over their heating and cooling systems. These thermostats are designed to learn your daily routine and preferences, enabling them to adjust the temperature accordingly. You can also change your settings or create a schedule to match your needs best.

Over time, this results in less energy waste, as the system only runs when necessary and in the most efficient settings. Smart thermostats can even be remotely controlled via smartphone apps, allowing homeowners to monitor and adjust their system’s performance. You can also replace your existing thermostat with a smart thermostat to experience these benefits.

2) Use of Two-Stage Compressors

 Two-stage compressors are another feature found in many modern air conditioners. Unlike traditional single-stage compressors, which operate at full capacity whenever the system is running, two-stage compressors can operate at both a high and low capacity depending on the home’s cooling demands. 

Using a two-stage compressor allows the air conditioner to use much less energy during periods of lower demand, such as during cooler days or when the home is unoccupied. Making sure a new AC is a two-stage compressor is always a good idea before installing a new system. Two-stage compressors are a great way to prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner due to their innovative design.

3) Better EER and SEER Ratings

 One of the most significant improvements in modern air conditioners is the improved Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. SEER is a measurement that rates the cooling efficiency of an AC system throughout an entire cooling season, while EER measures the efficiency at a specific outdoor temperature. 

Higher SEER and EER ratings indicate a more efficient unit, meaning it uses less energy to cool your home. Modern air conditioners must have a minimum SEER rating of 13, while older models may have ratings as low as 6. Today’s air conditioners can be up to twice as energy efficient as their predecessors, saving homeowners a significant amount on their energy bills.

4) Mini-Split Systems

 Ductless mini-split systems have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional central air conditioning systems. These units consist of an outdoor compressor and at least one or more indoor air handlers connected by refrigerant lines. Mini-split systems are highly efficient, as they eliminate the need for ductwork, which can be a significant source of energy loss. 

Additionally, mini-split systems can be easily zoned, allowing homeowners to manage the temperature in individual rooms, further reducing energy waste. Reaching out to a company offering air conditioning services is a great way to learn more about the benefits of installing mini-split systems for your home.

5) Variable Speed AC

 Traditional air conditioners typically use single-speed motors, which operate at the same speed regardless of the cooling demand. This can result in wasted energy, as the system may not always require full power to maintain the desired temperature. However, modern air conditioners often feature variable-speed motors, which can adjust their speed based on the home’s cooling needs. 

A variable-speed motor results in a more efficient and cost-effective cooling solution, as the system consumes less energy overall. Modern air conditioners with variable-speed motors are just one of the many reasons these new systems are more energy efficient than older models.

Contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning Services to Learn More

 Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning provides heating and cooling services for a wide range of customers. Delivering quality HVAC services at an affordable price is always a priority. Our team also specializes in many other services, whether you need fireplace installation, duct cleaning, ductless maintenance, and much more.

Contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning online or call (503) 378-7482 to learn more about our heating and cooling services.

How Often Should You Replace Your A/C Filter?

Performing routine maintenance and service is key to allowing your air conditioner to operate efficiently. One way to put less strain on your system is to replace your filter.

Switching out your filter offers numerous benefits, such as improving the energy efficiency of your system and enhancing indoor air quality, and it can also help you avoid expensive repairs. 

Typically, replacing your air filter every few months is a good idea, but you will need to do this more often if you suffer from allergies or have young children living in your home.

How to Change an Air Filter

Replacing an air filter is a quick and straightforward process that almost anyone can do independently. The first step is to verify that you have the correct size filter, as the filter size is often printed on the side of the old filter (when removing, take note of the orientation arrow). You can purchase an air filter at a home improvement store or visit an HVAC business. 

Next Step in Changing an Air Filter

Once you find the correct filter, turning the power off is vital before taking out the old filter. Some filters are designed to be reusable, as you will need to clean them by removing dirt and debris. However, most people use replaceable filters for their homes. It’s also important to remember that the arrows on the filter’s frame need to point in the correct direction, as the filter needs to be directed towards the airflow and on the opposite side of the return duct.

Final Steps

Once the new filter is in place, you can turn the power back on. Setting yourself a reminder on your calendar is also helpful in remembering when you will need to replace your filter again, as it can be easy to forget without writing down the date. Scheduling HVAC maintenance services is a great way to stay proactive. These professionals can handle all these tasks to ensure your air conditioner is operating at the highest level.

Need Air Conditioning Services? Reach Out to Our HVAC Professionals

Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning offers HVAC installation and repair for a wide range of customers. Providing top-quality HVAC services at a fair price is always our priority. Feel free to give Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning a call today to learn more about our air conditioning services in Salem!

Expert Tips for Staying On Top of HVAC Maintenance in 2021

It’s no surprise that your HVAC requires period maintenance, like most machines. However, did you know that the more maintenance it receives, the more efficient it will be and the longer it will last? It’s true. By implementing a period maintenance plan, you can get the most out of your heating and cooling equipment.

As the area’s HVAC repair and maintenance experts, Melton’s Heating & Cooling wanted to provide you with some vital maintenance tips here!

1. Perform Your “Own” Routine Checks 

In addition to hiring an HVAC specialist, you can also perform your routine checks each month, inspecting your system for things like:

  • That there are at least two feet of space between the indoor components of your HVAC system. Allows your indoor unit to be able to get as much air as possible.
  • Remove shrubs, branches, leaves, and other things from your outdoor unit that can potentially cause an exhaust fan block.
  • Your air filters: if they are not clean, replace them. Clean filters increase your HVAC unit’s efficiency.
  • Leaks in your HVAC unit’s refrigerant lines may not be apparent

2. Perform Seasonal Maintenance Checks 

You should also have a licensed HVAC specialist to perform seasonal maintenance checks so they can:

  • Inspect its fan blades for proper operation.
  • Clean and replace its air filters if needed.
  • Clean its condenser and evaporator coils.
  • Check all of its heating and cooling components.
  • Inspect its electrical wiring.
  • Check your ductwork.
  • Check the refrigerant of your system.
  • Replace any worn parts.
  • Dust off any snow accumulated around your AC unit during winter.

3. Perform an Annual Inspection 

Last but certainly not least, having your HVAC unit inspected annually will ensure it’s running safely and efficiently. Technicians will check your HVAC system and replace any carbon monoxide detectors if you have them. They will also make sure all of your HVAC unit’s components are properly lubricated and clean its condensation drain line.

HVAC technicians will also inspect your outdoor unit to make sure it’s been installed on level ground.

For more about HVAC repairs and installations, contact us! 

If you need HVAC repairs or maintenance, contact the team from Melton’s Heating & Cooling today online or call (503) 378-7428.

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