Blog | ServiceMax

4 Common AC Installation Mistakes Amateurs Make

May 30th, 2016

The summer’s almost here, and that means some blistering hot days ahead. Do you trust that your home’s current air conditioning system will make it through the heat and get to the fall without suffering a major malfunction? If you’re not sure, or if your AC is older than 15 years, now is an ideal time to arrange for a new installation to replace it.

It’s vital that you only call on experienced HVAC professionals to handle the installation job. Don’t let the promises of low costs from amateurs lure you! There are too many risks involved in having non-professionals try to install something as complicated as a central air conditioning system. Below are 4 mistakes that amateurs often make:

Reasons to Upgrade Your Current Thermostats

May 23rd, 2016

The thermostat is often under-appreciated for its importance in a home’s comfort system. After all, it’s easy to assume that any thermostat can handle the job of adjusting the temperature in a house and controlling the heating and air conditioning system.

UV Air Purifiers Can Help with Your Air Conditioning This Summer

May 16th, 2016

An indoor air quality solution that we often install in homes is the UV air purifier. This device safely eliminates bacteria and microbes, including harmful viruses and germs, from the air within a home. The ultraviolet radiation of the UV lamps in the purifier disrupt the cellular functions of organic pollutants without needing to resort to any chemicals that can have negative impact on air quality.

Filter Changes and Other AC Maintenance Jobs for the Summer

May 9th, 2016

We can’t overemphasize the importance of scheduling regular spring maintenance to inspect and tune-up your air conditioning system. This is the best tactic to “armor” your AC for the heat of the summer, making it less likely to run into repair issues or to start to waste energy as it operates. If you keep up with maintenance year after year, you’ll be rewarded with an extended life for your cooling system—and that’s one of the best ways to save money.

There’s Ice on My AC—Is That Normal?

May 2nd, 2016

This is one of the most common confusions that people have about their residential air conditioning system: that ice is a normal, expected part of the cooling process. It’s understandable the people would have this misunderstanding. After all, if the AC is sending out cold air, doesn’t it make sense for ice to be involved?

Make Air Duct Cleaning Part of Your Spring Cleaning This Year!

April 25th, 2016

“Spring cleaning” can mean many different things to many different people: often it’s not about cleaning a home but taking the time to organize other parts of your life, such as finances or a schedule of interests outside of your job. But it’s always a good idea to use “spring cleaning” as a reminder of regular tasks in the house that need to be taken care of. One of these is scheduling professional cleaning for your air ducts.

Replace Your Old Water Heater with a Tankless Water Heater

April 18th, 2016

No water heater will last forever, no matter how well-constructed it is or how much regular maintenance and care it receives. Eventually, the contact of water and metal as well as the wear on components such as the circulator pump and the heat exchanger will make the system so repair-prone that replacement is the best option. It’s better to have this job done soon… or you could end up losing the water heater entirely.

Don’t Ignore These Signs That Your AC Needs Repair

April 11th, 2016

Spring is upon us, and while our temperatures are still on the cooler side, soon enough warm weather and humidity will be here. When it hits, you want to make sure you have a properly functioning air conditioning system. Comprehensive ac service includes both routine maintenance and emergency repairs to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and reliably. In order to do so, you’ll want to take care of any AC repairs you may need as soon as you notice a problem. Delaying these repairs is likely to result in larger, more expensive repairs later down the road. Ignoring repair needs could even result in a prematurely failing air conditioner.

Scheduling an appointment for ac service is easy and convenient, with many companies offering same-day options to ensure your cooling system is restored quickly. Working with reputable brands and servicing all makes and models ensures your equipment is in good hands, no matter the type or model you own. Choosing a trusted brand, such as Carrier, Trane, Lennox, or Goodman, is important for reliability and compatibility with your system. Regular maintenance of your cooling system is essential for optimal performance, preventing breakdowns, and extending the lifespan of your unit, especially during peak summer months. A dedicated cooling team with the expertise to handle repairs, installation, and maintenance can quickly fix any issues and keep your home comfortable. Companies are committed to their customers, prioritizing satisfaction, support, and often providing special offers or discounts.

Comprehensive ac service also includes electric system checks and troubleshooting to ensure all components are functioning safely. The expertise of certified technicians ensures that your hvac system is diagnosed and repaired efficiently, using specialized tools for every job. Transparent pricing policies mean there are no extra charges for emergency services during nights or weekends, and emergency ac repair services are available 24/7 in Chicago. Licensed and insured technicians are ready to fix urgent issues and prevent further damage to your hvac system, with quick response times often within two hours of your phone call.

Professional service standards are maintained by a collaborative team approach, ensuring every job is done right the first time. Companies service all makes and models of air conditioning units, and can address issues such as moisture buildup, which may indicate refrigerant leaks or airflow problems requiring professional attention. It’s easy to schedule maintenance or repair services online or by phone, and many companies also handle sewer and plumbing issues as part of their comprehensive offerings. Technicians check and calibrate the thermostat during maintenance to ensure proper cooling, and cleaning and inspecting vents is essential for unobstructed airflow.

Preventative maintenance tasks include flushing the condensate drain line with vinegar or bleach to prevent algae growth and blockages, cleaning vents and registers to prevent blockages and ensure unobstructed airflow, clearing debris from around the outdoor unit, trimming vegetation to maintain a 2-foot clearance, and covering the outdoor unit during the off-season (except for heat pumps). Schedule annual professional inspections and a professional tune-up in the spring before the cooling season. Monitor your system from May through September, check air filters monthly, and change them every 1–3 months to ensure proper airflow and prevent dust buildup. Schedule maintenance at least once a year to avoid reduced efficiency and costly repairs. During professional maintenance, refrigerant levels are checked and tested for leaks.

Regular AC maintenance can prolong the life of your air conditioning unit, and many manufacturer warranties require proof of annual maintenance to remain valid. Preventative ac maintenance decreases the risk of unexpected breakdowns during peak usage times.

A new air conditioning system can improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency, while ductless mini-split systems offer zoned temperature control and easy installation. Zone control systems further enhance comfort and help save on energy bills. ServiceMax provides free AC estimates and helps you explore replacement options, and ServiceMax offers free estimates on new air conditioners. Seek professional help if you notice weak airflow, warm air blowing, strange noises, water leaks, or thermostat problems, as these can lead to improper cooling and should be checked during regular maintenance.

What to Expect During Spring HVAC Maintenance

April 4th, 2016

When spring arrives and the temperatures begin to warm up (although the threat of sudden cold weather still hangs around), it’s time to call your local HVAC contractor to arrange for a maintenance visit for your air conditioning system. If you’re already a part of our maintenance program, then we’ll call you with the reminder that your AC is due for its “check-up.” Make sure you schedule the service, since it’s the best way to see that your air conditioner makes it through the season without major mishaps and maintaining its energy efficiency.

Now Is the Time to Have Your Air Conditioning System Professionally Maintained

March 28th, 2016

The early spring weather is still on the cool side here in Chicagoland, and most likely you haven’t had to run your air conditioning system much yet. But the weather will soon start to warm up, and the cooling system in your home will settle in for many months of steady work. Make sure that the AC is ready for the stresses of the middle of the year with professional maintenance. This is the best way to prevent breakdowns, unnecessary repairs, and loss of energy efficiency—and it will also help the equipment enjoy the longest life possible.