Furnace & Air Connection

Seven Vital Facts About Your Car’s Air Conditioning System

Air conditioning, which was once a great luxury, is now a common feature on most motor vehicles. While the servicing of modern car air conditioning systems is best left to professionals, you can get the most enjoyment from your ac system if you know a bit about how it works and what malfunctions you should be on the lookout for.

1. Odd smells coming from the air conditioning may be caused by bacterial buildups

As your car becomes older, or when the air conditioning system is used infrequently, bacteria, micro-organisms, mold and fungi may start growing, just behind the dash panel on the evaporator causing some very unpleasant odors. Some even claim this can result in headaches and flu like symptom sometimes referred to as ’sick car syndrome.’

This problem can be solved by using an anti-bacterial treatment that destroys the bacteria growth and leaves your car smelling fresh again.

2. If you car does not feel cold enough, then you may need to recharge your system

If you feel that your car doesn’t feel as cold as your friend’s car, then your system may need servicing. The air conditioning system in your vehicle is not usually covered by most manufacturers servicing schedules and the refrigerant gas that is used to operate the system depletes over time. On average most vehicles lose up to 15% per annum. This leakage can be caused when then system is not used during the winter months. Thus allowing the small ‘O’ ring seals to dry out resulting in a gradual deterioration in system performance. If this continues, eventually the system will not be able to operate at all.

Most problems of this type can be put right fairly easily by a leak check of your system followed by a complete refill of your air conditioning refrigerant, this is sometimes referred to as a re-gas.

3. Running your air conditioning year round will help maintain the system

If you run the air conditioning in the winter it will help to keep the system well lubricated and leak tight. This is because the refrigerant actually carries the oil that lubricates the system and most importantly the compressor. It also keeps the seals and hoses moist, thus preventing them from drying out and cracking which can lead to leaks.

4. Strange noises coming from the air conditioning should be attended to immediately

If your air-con system suddenly starts making noises you have not heard before it is very advisable to have a qualified vehicle air conditioning specialist to have a look at it.
Some noises could be early symptoms of a compressor failure (the compressor is the air conditioning pump).The compressor is usually the most expensive part on the system ranging from approximately 230 to 600+ and if the bearings in your compressor break down or if the compressor seizes up it also means that other components can become contaminated with metal particles A flush of the system would then be needed as well as replacement of the compressor, the receiver/drier and the expansion valve - quite a hefty bill!

5. Don’t worry about a pool of water forming under your car after using the A/C

If you see a puddle of water on the ground, usually under the passenger area don’t be alarmed. This is a normal feature of the system as it is only water dripping from the air conditioning evaporator. The evaporator has a drain tube fitted to allow the condensation from the evaporator to drain away from the vehicle.

6. Excessive moisture inside the car can be fixed easily

Sometimes the drain tube from the evaporator may become blocked or detached allowing the condensation to build up inside your evaporator. If this occurs water will just build up inside your car to a point where there are damp carpets or misting / high humidity type problems. These problems can be solved with low-cost servicing.

7. Have your air conditioning serviced regularly, even if there are no visible problems

Just as the other systems of your car need servicing on a regular basis, the same is true for the air conditioning system. The compressor needs oil, or else it will seize up. The filter collects debris and moisture. If the filter becomes blocked, then the performance of the system will deteriorate and it can even quit working entirely (probably when you need it most!)

Normally the refrigerant gas in a car air conditioning system has to be recharged completely within four years from the manufacture date and thereafter every two to three years.

An annual servicing of your car’s air conditioning system will guard against malfunctions in the compressor and other vital parts of the system. Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run and guarantee you comfort in the hottest months.

Steve Magill is the managing director of LVV Services Ltd. www.lvvservices.com . Located in South Wales, LVV Services specializes in Smart Repair of autos, including dent removal, car diagnostics, paint repair, alloy wheel repair and air conditioning services.

Armstrong Air Conditioning Leads The Field

Leading the way in the area of air conditioning systems, Armstrong air conditioning supplies businesses and institutions from around the world with plans, products and systems. The parent company has long stood for comfort and quality for the people who buy their products. For many years, Armstrong air conditioning has provided reliable equipment used for cooling extremely large spaces.

Many of the pieces of equipment that Armstrong air conditioning provides use both electricity and propane gas for heating and cooling. Constantly leading the way with innovative ideas, this company has provided exceptional service while continuing to improve their services. In business for the past sixty years, the company is very successful at what it does.

Leading the way in research and development, the leaders of air conditioning know that a high level of research and development is necessary to stay competitive in the world of air conditioning. The engineers and developers of the company are devoted to the continuous improvement of air conditioning and its any products. They know that it is more important and easier to keep customers than it is to go out and try to get new ones. The company has remained successful and continues to set the pace.

More Than A Cool Breeze

Due to the excellent conditions at the Armstrong factory and assembly facility, the products, which are created here, are of the highest quality. With products in many homes and offices all over the world, the company is a global leader in air conditioning systems. With extensive testing of its products, the company provides high quality control over its products. The company follows up sales of its products with exceptional service. In the rare event that a product ever fails, the service and replacement is swift and courteous. The company spends a good deal of money training its service technicians so that they provide only the best service to their customers. Being a leader in air conditioning requires special knowledge and a team of employees that dedicate themselves to keeping you comfortable.

The products supplied by the company are reliable and dependable, with each customer’s specialized equipment being designed to fit for each order. This equipment improves the air quality in buildings, which in turn helps the people in the building live healthier lives. Highly energy efficient, the equipment is modern and available for small homes as well as large office buildings. Every product from the company comes with warranties and service agreements that will cover the servicing of the products for many worry-free years. When choosing quality air conditioning systems, give Armstrong air conditioning products a try. You will be glad you did.

You can also find more info on Air Conditioner and Home Air Conditioning Units. Knowairconditioner.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Air Conditioner.

An Air Conditioning Service Contracts Is Necessary For Maintenance Purposes

Experienced homeowners realize that when it comes to their air conditioning systems, prevention is always much better than the cure. Having a good quality air conditioning service plan can save homeowners from expensive repair bills for system damage that has been caused by worn and damaged components. There are many companies that offer service contracts on air conditioning units and these can provide peace of mind, as well as saving money in the long-run.

A service contract for such systems can be rather expensive in terms of the upfront cost, depending on how extensive the air conditioning system is. In most cases, the more extensive the system, the more the homeowner depends on the air conditioning equipment functioning without fail, making service contracts even more important. Many of the heating and air conditioning companies provide service contracts on the units they sell and usually have financing plans available as well.

Typical air conditioning service contracts are very comprehensive in terms of the services and parts that will be provided. The intent is to keep the air conditioning unit in good working order and to maintain the unit in order to avoid a major breakdown. Most people who have had these types of service plans for a few years have learned that they more than pay for themselves, as various equipment issues and problems come up with them.

For those who live in extremely warm climates, having an service contract is even more important because often in these areas where the temperature can climb above 90 degrees for extended periods of time, it is essential to keep the such a system always running in good condition. For homes and other facilities that have elderly residents, this is even more crucial.

The companies that sell air conditioners will typically place a higher priority on the service calls that come in from their customers who have a service contract for their heating and air conditioning equipment. Often, this means that a customer who has a service contract will have someone there to service their unit within just a few hours of reporting a problem, while other customers might have to wait for a day or two before they can expect to have someone arrive to repair their unit.

Maintaining the compressor in an such a system in also very important to prevent inefficient operation and potential damage to the equipment and to make sure the system is operating at peak efficiency at all times. Most service contracts allow for an annual maintenance check-up, in order to make sure that the unit is working well and no problems are developing. In the warmer parts of the country, it is a good idea to get a plan that allows for these check-ups on a semi-annual basis.

In all cases, the homeowner must also be sure to keep the unit free from any obstructions that might prevent the free flow of air in and out of the unit. Air conditioning service contracts can become null and void if the homeowner does not do his or her best to maintain a proper operating environment for the air conditioner.

Get your FREE ventilation gift and the best information on air conditioning service contractors at Mike Selvon’s portal, and leave a comment at our air conditioning systems blog.

Advantages Of Portable Air Conditioning

There are several types and models of portable air conditioning systems that you can choose from when you finally decide that you need cooler air in your environment. While there are many kinds of air conditioning units and systems, the portable air conditioning system is by far the most convenient and economical. With a variety of models and types, you can pretty much have the unit that best suits you.

Portability Benefits

Portable air conditioning systems are easy to move to other locations that require cooling. Usually having wheels on the bottom or light enough to carry from room to room, the portable air conditioning unit is a very handy appliance. With larger units, this simply is not possible due to the weight and installation requirements. This is yet one more reason to have portable air conditioning units in your home. You can even take these portable units with you when you travel. Taking the portable air conditioning unit to the cottage for the weekend for example, is very possible and easy to do.

Energy Efficiency Of Portable Air Conditioning Units

Because these units are smaller and generally much more economical to operate, the energy efficiency is very high. Therefore, for those families worried about spending too much money on the cooling needs of their home, these systems are ideal. Because they are energy efficient, these types of appliances are also better for the environment as well.

Cost Efficiency Of These Units

These portable units are much cheaper and more effective than many larger models and so if budget is a factor, rest assured these would not break your bank. Some portable units are even powered by battery and so do not require that an electrical outlet even be nearby. College dorm rooms can benefit from these small and efficient appliances as well.

Watch For Deals

Be sure to do your research and keep your eyes open for special deals - especially in the months leading up to summer. Many stores will feature deals on systems in anticipation of higher demands as warmer weather hits so be ready. It is always a good idea to compare various models and types of units that you are interested in, online first. However, remember that online companies may add a high shipping charge to the price of the unit so the deal may not actually be as good as buying locally.

You can also find more info on Air Conditioner and Home Air Conditioning Units. Knowairconditioner.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Air Conditioner.

Readying Your Air-conditioning System For A Hot Summer

Keeping your cool this year may be easier if you give your air-conditioning system a tune-up before the weather gets any warmer. All it takes is a few simple steps to make sure your air-conditioning system is ready to properly cool your home.

Here are some tips from the U.S. Department of Energy and the experts at Coleman Heating and Air Conditioning, a brand of the Unitary Products Group of York–a Johnson Controls Company:

• Keeping the cool air inside is just as important as keeping the warm air outside. Caulking, weather stripping, and adding additional attic insulation will help keep cool air inside during the summer.

• Make sure the air is flowing properly through the vents. Inspect the ductwork for holes or separated joints, and hire a professional to repair them.

• Add insulation around air-conditioning ducts, when they are located in unconditioned spaces, such as attics, crawl spaces and garages; do the same for whole house fans where they open to the exterior or attic.

• Homeowners should check the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating of their air-conditioning unit. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit is and the lower your utility bills will be. Upgrading to a higher SEER rating can save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year on their energy bills.

If the air-conditioning unit needs to be replaced, homeowners should be aware of the U.S. Department of Energy legislation that requires all new, central air-conditioning units manufactured after January 23, 2006, to have a SEER of at least 13.

Consumers may want to consider an energy-efficient model, such as the Coleman Echelon™ 15+ SEER air conditioner. New models are Energy Star qualified, use environmentally friendly refrigerant and have high-efficiency scroll compressors that enhance reliability and contribute to the extremely quiet operation of the units.

By: Whitney Taylor

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To learn more, visit the Coleman Web site at www.colemanac.com/echelon or call (877) 874-7378. The best time to give your air conditioner a checkup is before it heats up.