Douglas Cooling & Heating Blog : Archive for the ‘HVAC’ Category

Your Guide To HVAC Repair and Maintenance?

Thursday, May 17th, 2018

Important Tips for New Homeowners

Buying a home for the first time is a joyous occasion, and occasionally stressful. New homeowners tend to spend money right and left to furnish their new home – one thing it’s easy to forget about is the additional cost of HVAC repair and maintenance.

New homeowners need to know the basics of HVAC maintenance to ensure their equipment lasts long after purchasing a home. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers different preventative maintenance plans at affordable prices for any homeowner. Learn the facts and benefits of HVAC maintenance early and save yourself headaches in the future.

The Basics of HVAC Maintenance

Routine HVAC maintenance performed twice a year will keep you and your family healthy and comfortable throughout the year. Although different maintenance plans include certain features, the basics of what is performed are almost always the same. All of Douglas Cooling & Heating preventative maintenance plans include:

Cleaning of the outdoor and indoor coil
Inspection of the electrical components
Checking the unit’s efficiency and ability to store an electrical charge
Lubricating the motors and other components at risk for friction while operating
Tightening all electrical connections
Cleaning the burners
Replacing the filter
Checking the gas pressure
Cleaning the drain line
Checking pressure levels
Checking the flue pipe and
Vacuuming the air handler.

The differences between each HVAC maintenance plan offered by Douglas Cooling & Heating are:

The discounts on repairs and new systems
The diagnostic fee during normal hours and after hours
Service and maintenance reminders
After hours customer service and
Whether or not Douglas Cooling & Heating Bucks are eligible.

The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Your heating and cooling system is an expensive necessity in your home, which is why HVAC maintenance is extremely important. HVAC maintenance provides several benefits to your your family and your wallet, such as:

Healthy Indoor Air Quality:

Keeping your heating and cooling system clean ensures the air filter will be inspected and replaced when necessary. During operation, the unit will collect dirt, dust, pollen and other debris coming in from outside and inside your home, removed by your tech during maintenance. A clean filter will prevent pollutants from escaping into your indoor air, keeping you and your family healthier every day.

Fewer HVAC Repairs and Breakdowns:

A unit not maintained on a regular basis will exhibit more problems, which will turn into expensive repairs in the future. HVAC maintenance catches problems in your system early, allowing you to repair or replace parts according to your budget. Emergency HVAC repairs demand payment immediately to get your heating and cooling equipment operational within a short period of time. You might not have a budget prepared to cover the cost of a breakdown or malfunction.

Lower Energy Bills:

Your heating and cooling system will operate more efficiently and smoothly when it is regularly cleaned and serviced. Signs of wear and tear are identified and fixed during an HVAC maintenance call. Without maintenance, the wear and tear on your unit from too much stress forces it to work harder, increasing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home.

Increased Lifespan:

By catching wear and tear issues, HVAC maintenance lengthens the lifespan of your heating and cooling unit. You won’t have to worry about buying a replacement or an upgraded HVAC system before you are financially ready. The small cost of a maintenance plan is nothing compared the cost of installing a new HVAC unit.

Buying a home is a major responsibility. Caring for the appliances accompanying a house is not to be taken lightly. Approach your new home and its contents with respect and a plan to keep everything running smoothly for years to come. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to discuss the different HVAC maintenance plans available and which one would be right for you.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Your Guide To HVAC Repair and Maintenance?

Gift Mom Air Conditioning Service

Tuesday, May 8th, 2018

Show Her You Care About Her Comfort for Mother’s Day

For the woman who gave you life, deciding on the right gift for Mother’s Day can be difficult. She may say she doesn’t want anything, so Alabama’s own, Douglas Cooling & Heating, has a unique option compared to the typical lunch or flowers. We offer air conditioning service, including preventative maintenance plans, and tune-ups to ensure your mother is kept cool this summer without worries of unexpected breakdowns.

Give the Gift that Continues to Give

May marks the beginning of summer with rapidly increasing temperatures and high humidity levels in Birmingham and the surrounding communities. Scheduling air conditioning service for your mother’s AC unit has several benefits to keep her smiling throughout the season. Douglas Cooling & Heating knows exactly what to do when it comes to keeping cooling equipment in tip-top shape. Our NATE-certified technicians are experienced and skilled to handle any challenge they come across on the job.

We offer different preventative maintenance plans, which can keep your mother’s cooling and heating system running smoothly throughout the year. With a maintenance plan, your mother won’t have to deal with scheduling service at the last minute for her HVAC system. Our plans are hassle-free with various discounts on repairs and new systems. Call us today to find out more about our different preventative maintenance plans and choose the best fit for your mother.

Benefits of Air Conditioning Service

Air conditioning service performed by qualified HVAC professionals will not only keep the mother in your life cool and comfortable, it will also save her money in the long run. Benefits of air conditioning service at the start of the season include:

Regular maintenance will keep your mother’s air conditioning system operating reliably. Units serviced annually experience fewer breakdowns during the summer. Inspections during maintenance calls catch problems before they erupt into disaster, reducing repair costs along the way. Improved reliability will give your mother peace of mind when it comes to her air conditioner’s performance.
Your mother’s HVAC unit will last longer with continued maintenance. The average air conditioner lasts 10 years, and with proper maintenance, your mother can enjoy her cooling system for close to 15 years before she has to deal with upgrading to a new air conditioner.
Increased efficiency is another benefit from preventative maintenance performed by a qualified HVAC professional. A unit experiences wear and tear due to added strain on its components, but maintenance reduces signs of strain, restoring life to your mother’s air conditioning system. Less stress on her unit will increase its efficiency and reduce her monthly energy bill.
Scheduling maintenance at the start of the summer will keep HVAC repairs low, especially when the heat rises. Your mother will notice less frequent repairs and appreciate the money she will save in the end. A maintained system will keep your mother cooler without struggling to pay for unexpected breakdowns in the future.

Schedule Additional Air Conditioning Service

Besides purchasing a preventative maintenance plan, Douglas Cooling & Heating offers other air conditioning services to keep your mother cool this summer. If your mother already has a maintenance plan, consider scheduling an air conditioning tune-up or duct cleaning for your mother’s cooling system. A tune-up provides many of the same benefits throughout the summer.

A typical tune-up will inspect your mother’s unit, including thermostat settings, refrigerant levels, the outdoor unit, and proper airflow. Our technicians will replace or clean the filter, tighten all electrical connections, and lubricate all moving parts. Many maintenance tasks are performed during a tune-up. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers affordable rates for tune-ups and will ensure your mother’s unit is operating smoothly by the end of the air conditioning service call.

Professional duct cleaning services are an excellent option for your mother this year. NATE-certified technicians will inspect and clean your mother’s ducts and vents, finding any leaks in the process. A proper cleaning extends to ducts, air handler, grilles, registers, and other components in your mother’s HVAC system. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to find out more about our air conditioning services and decide which option is best for your mother.

Give your mother a gift that continues to provide throughout the summer! Air conditioning services performed by a qualified and honest HVAC company will make your mother and her AC unit happy. Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating to discuss our different preventative maintenance plans or to schedule a tune-up or other services for Mom’s special day.

Posted in HVAC, Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on Gift Mom Air Conditioning Service

Keep Your Air Conditioner Hospitable For Spring Guests

Thursday, May 3rd, 2018

No Alabamian Wants a Hot and Humid Party…

Late spring and early summer are busy times for celebrations, such as Mother’s Day, graduations, and bridal and baby showers. One thing all these parties have in common is a guest list, which means more people in your Alabama home than usual. Douglas Cooling & Heating knows the struggles you can experience when the temperature and humidity start to rise, especially when hosting a party in your home.

Prevent unexpected breakdowns with your air conditioner by scheduling service with qualified technicians who have seen it all! Our NATE-certified technicians will clean and inspect your air conditioner during service, including repairing or replacing damaged components found during the service call. Follow these tips to ensure your home stays cool during your celebrations and call Douglas Cooling & Heating for additional help with your cooling needs.

Change Your Air Conditioning Filter

Your air conditioner depends on an air filter to trap and remove pollutants in your home air on a daily basis. Common pollutants include dirt, dust, pollen and other debris. When the filter is too dirty, it can become clogged and stop working to trap contaminants before they circulate through your air ducts.

Particulates begin to build up in your ductwork, restricting airflow and forcing your air conditioner to work harder to deliver cool temperatures to every room in your house. Check your filter once a month, at a minimum, and replace it every few months to ensure it traps pollutants easily, allowing your cooling unit to operate efficiently without breakdowns.

Improve Airflow

Besides the air conditioner’s filter, your unit can experience air flow problems due to dirty evaporator coils or condenser coils. Dirty evaporator coils prevent air from moving across them, which influences how easily your home cools. The condenser coil is responsible for depositing heat from your home outside, if it is dirty, it can’t effectively move heat outdoors.

Check your outdoor unit for debris or vegetation crowding it and removing what you can without damaging components in the outdoor unit. If you suspect your evaporator coils or condenser coil are dirty and preventing proper airflow, contact Douglas Cooling & Heating. We will clean your coils and repair damaged parts of your outdoor unit.

Seal Air Leaks

Your HVAC unit accounts for over half of your energy usage in your home. When air leaks are present in your house, energy from your cooling system is lost through the leaks and gaps. Check windows and doors for possible air leaks. Apply caulking to windows and weatherstripping your doors to prevent energy from escaping.

Air leaks are also possible in your ductwork, especially if they aren’t regularly cleaned and inspected. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers ductwork cleaning services by our NATE-certified technicians. We will locate possible leaks, fix what we find, and replace damaged ductwork during the duct cleaning.

Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are underestimated and can be your best friend during your festivities. They circulate cool air throughout your home when you need it most and give your air conditioner time to relax during the hottest part of the day. By not operating as hard or as often, ceiling fans boost your air conditioner’s efficiency while keeping your home cool for your guests. Increased efficiency not only saves you money on your energy bill, it promotes a healthy air conditioner to last long past summer.

Schedule Air Conditioner Maintenance

Scheduling maintenance on your air conditioner will ensure your unit is clean and operating with a clean filter before your guests arrive. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers preventative maintenance plans at affordable pricing, which keeps your air conditioner, furnace, or heat pumps in tip-top shape year-round. Maintenance keeps your HVAC equipment in check and catches small problems before they escalate into expensive repairs in the future.

Keep your air conditioner healthy and avoid surprise breakdowns when guests arrive. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating now to schedule maintenance or service on your air conditioner. We want your guests to experience cool temperatures in a comfortable environment, regardless of the weather outside.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Keep Your Air Conditioner Hospitable For Spring Guests

Will My Heat Pump Last Through the Summer?

Tuesday, May 1st, 2018

Do You Use This Air Conditioner Alternative? Read on…

Heat pumps provide controlled temperatures year-round, which means they work without taking a break. Air conditioners take breaks between seasons, giving you plenty of time to service them before they are needed again.

Working year-round means your heat pump needs more attention than the average air conditioner to keep it operating smoothly and efficiently when the seasons change. Use these heat pump tips to keep you and your family cool this summer!

Tip #1: Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance

The best way to ensure your heat pump performs smoothly this summer is by scheduling maintenance with a licensed HVAC professional. Routine service keeps your unit clean, including the components and ductwork. Scheduling maintenance before the summer heat and humidity hit provides several benefits to you and your wallet.

Neglected heat pumps experience more wear and tear during the year, resulting in more malfunctions and breakdowns. You can save yourself a headache and money by catching problems early with preventative maintenance. HVAC repair costs are kept low when issues, especially damaged components, are diagnosed before summer arrives.

Saving energy is another benefit of heat pump maintenance. A serviced and clean unit will perform optimally and more efficiently, using less energy to cool your home. You will notice the effect on your energy bill every month when you regularly service your heat pump. Dust, dirt, grime and other debris are kept to a minimum in your heat pump, allowing cool air to circulate throughout your home unobstructed.

Tip #2: Inspect the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit for your heat pump can suffer from the sun beating down on it, especially during the peak hours of the day. Debris from storms such as leaves, limbs and twigs can clog your outdoor unit, forcing it to work harder to keep your home cool indoors. Overgrown vegetation and grass clippings also have the tendency to obstruct airflow, so keep these contained. Other problems with your outdoor unit can decrease your heat pump’s efficiency, leading to an inconvenient breakdown. The fan motor can fail or be damaged, causing the outdoor unit to overheat on a hot day. Refrigerant leaks or dirty coils can keep heat from properly transferring between the indoor and outdoor unit.

These are more serious issues so if you suspect damage, call Douglas Cooling & Heating for service on your heat pump now before it turns into an expensive breakdown during the Alabama heat waves.

Tip #3: Replace Your Heat Pump Filters

Dirty or clogged filters are a common cause of major and minor malfunctions in heat pumps. Heat pumps require a higher volume of airflow to effectively cool your home. When an air filter is dirty, the air volume flowing throughout the ducts is reduced and decreases a heat pump’s efficiency.

Check your heat pump filter monthly and replace it if you notice excess dirt, which compromises your heat pump’s performance and reduces your indoor air quality. If you schedule routine maintenance with Douglas Cooling & Heating, our NATE-certified technicians will inspect and change your filter during the call. We understand the importance of clean filters and healthy airflow in your home. After all, filters affect your cooling units efficiency and your family’s health.

Tip #4: Check Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is the communication center for your heat pump and the desired temperature in your home. Older dial thermostats often give inaccurate readings, resulting in uneven temperatures from room-to-room. With new advanced programmable thermostats, you can preset temperature schedules when you are home, away and asleep, saving you money every month on your energy bill. Even while on vacation this summer you can keep your heat pump operating efficiently by adjusting the temperature higher and not requiring your heat pump to run as often.

Ensure your heat pump is operating efficiently this summer by giving it the care and attention it needs. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule maintenance now to prevent unexpected breakdowns in the middle of Birmingham’s hottest temperatures. We offer quality heat pump, air conditioner and ductless unit service backed by exceptional customer satisfaction for every job!

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Will My Heat Pump Last Through the Summer?

Heating & Cooling Terminology Explained

Wednesday, April 18th, 2018

What Does SEER Mean?

Are you noticing higher energy bills from your air conditioning unit? Is your current system between 10 and 15 years old? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it’s time to invest in a new air conditioner.

Today’s energy-efficient units are labeled with a special Energy Guide sticker informing you how efficient it operates, known as the SEER rating. Douglas Cooling & Heating is a Bryant Factory-Authorized Dealer and we carry several Bryant air conditioners to fit any budget.

What a SEER Rating Means

The SEER rating, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, on your current or new air conditioner, indicates its cooling efficiency. SEER measures the unit’s cooling output to its power input. A new air conditioner with a high SEER rating indicates how efficient it is compared to other units. The higher the rating, the more efficient an air conditioner. Higher efficiency means your cooling system will use less energy to operate and save you more money on your energy bill.

In recent years, SEER ratings have increased, and older units are less efficient than new models. New air conditioners are required to have a SEER rating of 14 or higher as of January 2015. Douglas Cooling & Heating sells new air conditioners energy-efficient with high SEER ratings. Our NATE-certified technicians install new air conditioner units quickly after properly sizing your home for the capacity you need.

Know the SEER Rating of Your New Air Conditioner

It’s amazing! Current units trounce those manufactured as little as a decade ago. New air conditioners have an EnergyGuide label on them, so homeowners can determine their unit’s SEER rating. The label is easy to find and will indicate the new air conditioner unit’s efficiency compared to other units. You can investigate how much money you will save from a new air conditioner by visiting the Department of Energy online. There are several energy and cost saving calculator documents to help you determine which SEER rating will give you the best savings.

Purchasing a new air conditioner unit with Douglas Cooling & Heating means you won’t have to question the quality or efficiency of your new system. Our technicians will explain how your new system works and help you understand how best to use and maintain it. We want you to love your new air conditioner from the minute you switch it on, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Boost the SEER Rating

After installing your new air conditioner, consider investing in a preventative maintenance plan to protect your investment and preserve any manufacturer warranties. An air conditioner, just like any major home appliance, is an expensive purchase. Regularly scheduled maintenance keeps your unit performing its best at all times.

Maintenance ensures your equipment is clean by eliminating excess dust, dirt and other debris accumulated during the spring, summer, and early fall months. Dust and dirt sound minor, but they can negatively impact your new air-conditioning system, including restricting the airflow in your ductwork.

Regular maintenance cleans your unit and it catches problems early preventing expensive HVAC repairs. Taking care of your air conditioner will keep repair costs low, ensure your system performs as efficiently as it can, and prolong the lifespan of your new unit. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers several different preventative maintenance plans, so you can choose one in line with your budget.

Know what you are buying when it comes time to invest in a new air conditioner. Make sure your new system has a high SEER rating and purchase a preventative maintenance plan to keep it performing efficiently. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating for a great line of Bryant air conditioners with installation performed by our trusted NATE-certified technicians.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Heating & Cooling Terminology Explained

My Air Conditioner Quit! Belated April Fool Joke?

Sunday, April 1st, 2018

So, the warmer weather is increasing, and you notice your air conditioning unit has stopped working. Don’t panic just yet! There might be a simple reason for the problem a heating and air conditioning repair can quickly fix and have your home cooling off before you know it. If repairs are accumulating, it might be time to upgrade your current HVAC unit and purchase a new air conditioner from Douglas Cooling & Heating.

Heating and Air Conditioning Repair

Air conditioners can be finicky at times, especially if not properly maintained during the year. Just because you don’t feel cool air blowing doesn’t mean the air conditioner has stopped working. There a variety of reasons why your HVAC system isn’t functioning correctly. The most common air conditioning problems are:

The fan in the outdoor unit is dysfunctional
The compressor in the outside unit has overheated
Bad electrical connections both outside and inside
A refrigerant leak, low refrigerant levels, or no refrigerant all
Faulty thermostat providing false readings and
Condensate drain is clogged or not correctly draining

The best way to identify the problem and if it can be fixed is by scheduling heating and air conditioning repair with a licensed professional. Douglas Cooling & Heating employs only the best HVAC technicians in the industry who are NATE-certified and continuously trained. Hiring quality professionals guarantees you get excellent service every time. Our technicians are skilled and knowledgeable with years of experience under their belts. They are equipped to handle any problem with any make or model they come across during a heating and air conditioning repair call.

Preventive Maintenance for the Future

If your cooling system is repairable, you need to take steps to prevent unexpected problems from happening in the future. Preventative maintenance is important for any HVAC system. By maintaining your equipment, common allergens, such as pollen, dirt and dust, are kept to a minimum while your system is operating.

Filters are changed during routine maintenance calls, which allows them to better trap and eliminate more contaminants from your indoor air. Your heating and cooling system be healthier and your indoor air quality improve, too. Healthy indoor air keeps your home cleaner and lowers health risks to you and your family, especially if anyone has asthma or respiratory illnesses.

Maintenance catches problems early, and technicians can repair or replace damaged components before they harm your system further. Unless your system is old, most malfunctions and breakdowns can be avoided with regularly scheduled maintenance twice a year. Fewer problems mean less heating and air conditioning repairs, which saves you money over time. Maintenance also boosts your system’s performance and efficiency, lengthening its lifespan. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers three levels of preventative maintenance plans to fit any budget.

Time for a New HVAC Unit

Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, including your HVAC system. Even with proper maintenance, your unit will call it quits permanently. If your system is older than 10-15 years or the cost of the heating and air conditioning repair is more than your current unit is worth, it’s time to purchase a new HVAC system. You may also consider if the cost to repair the unit is negligible compared to the combination of a new more efficient unit and the energy savings you’ll enjoy.

There are a few things to consider before investing in a new unit. Newer HVAC models have ratings and specifications to indicate efficiency compared to other models. Search for a new heating and cooling system with high SEER/EER and HSPF rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient a unit will be, lowering your energy bill and saving you money.

Douglas Cooling & Heating is a Bryant Factory-Authorized Dealer, and we sell only the best quality HVAC products to our Alabama customers. We offer to finance new HVAC systems so you can purchase without stressing over money. We have several different financing options for you to choose and each features different benefits. For more information about our financing options, call Douglas Cooling & Heating to speak with our friendly sales staff.

Don’t get stuck sweating the heat this season! Schedule 24/7 heating and air conditioning repair with Douglas Cooling & Heating to get your unit up and running fast. Douglas Cooling & Heating is your one-stop shop for all your HVAC needs, including preventative maintenance and installation of a new system. Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating today to schedule service or to learn more about our financing options for a new heating and cooling system.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on My Air Conditioner Quit! Belated April Fool Joke?

Spring Energy Saving Tips for Your Home Heating and Cooling

Monday, March 26th, 2018

Warmer weather is right around the corner and so is a higher energy bill if you aren’t careful. Your HVAC system switches from heating to cooling with the rising temperatures. If your unit isn’t ready for the switch, its performance and efficiency are reduced and cause your energy bill to skyrocket. The added stress on your heating and cooling system due to the fluctuating temperatures leads to malfunctions and breakdowns when you least expect them. Follow these five heating and cooling energy saving tips this spring to reduce your energy bill without sacrificing your indoor comfort.

Tip #1 – Preventative Maintenance Is Vital

The most important thing you can do for your heating and cooling system is to schedule maintenance before spring arrives. Dirt, dust and other debris will accumulate throughout your system and ductwork during the winter. Maintenance cleans your unit, eliminating excess dust and preventing clogs in your ductwork. When the airflow in your home is compromised due to a clog or other obstruction, your unit has to work harder to provide controlled temperatures throughout your home. Maintenance improves airflow, which increases your system’s efficiency and produces heating and cooling energy savings immediately.

Tip #2 – Change Your Air Filter

Check your air filter on a regular basis to reduce clogging in your system and ductwork. When a filter is dirty, airflow is restricted and there is a greater chance for dirt, dust and other debris to get caught inside your ductwork. Clogged ducts prevent warm and cool air from circulating around your house, which interferes with your thermostat obtaining accurate readings. Your heating and cooling unit will have to work harder to provide ideal temperatures throughout your home, increases the amount of energy used by your unit. Inspecting and changing out your filter before it becomes a problem will boost heating and cooling energy savings every month.

Tip #3 – Inspect Your Outdoor Unit

Clear away any leaves, branches, twigs and other debris from around your outdoor unit restricting airflow. If you notice a layer of dirt, pollen or dust on your coils, gently hose them off with water or call an HVAC technician to properly clean your outdoor unit for you.

Rodents and pests are another problem affecting outdoor units. During the winter, small animals seek shelter in dry, warm places, including inside your outdoor unit. If you notice scratches around or on your unit or signs of an infestation, contact Douglas Cooling & Heating to have your outdoor unit inspected and cleaned. Our professionals will check for chewed wiring or damage to other components inside your outdoor unit during an HVAC repair. Catching problems with your outdoor unit will cut back on expensive repairs in the future and increase your heating and cooling energy savings.

Tip #4 – Schedule Air Duct Cleaning

Schedule an HVAC repair to have your air ducts, vents, and registers professionally cleaned before the start of spring. A thorough duct cleaning eliminates dirt and debris from accumulating and reducing the airflow in your system. During the service call, our NATE-certified technicians will check for air leaks throughout your ductwork and seal them if necessary. An inspection will also discover if any ductwork is damaged and will be replaced immediately. Damaged ducts and air leaks increase your energy usage without you realizing it. Most people forget about their ducts since they are hidden from view. Duct cleaning increases your heating and cooling energy savings by finding and sealing leaks and improving the airflow when air is circulated throughout your home.

Tip #5 – Upgrade Your Thermostat

If you have an older thermostat, now is the time to consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat before the change in seasons. The heating and cooling energy savings you will get with a new programmable thermostat are amazing. You can program settings to fit your schedule based on when you are home, away, asleep, and on vacation. A programmable thermostat prevents your HVAC system from kicking on repeatedly while you are at work or school, decreasing the wear and tear on your unit and reducing energy wasted during the day.

Take advantage of heating and cooling energy savings this spring by scheduling maintenance, replacing your air filter regularly, and inspecting your outdoor unit. Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating to have a professional clean your ducts or install a new programmable thermostat to boost savings further. Our NATE-certified technicians are standing by, ready to assist you with all your heating and cooling needs.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Spring Energy Saving Tips for Your Home Heating and Cooling

Top 3 Signs Your Lake House HVAC System Needs Maintenance

Monday, March 19th, 2018

Spring is here, and summer is soon to follow, which means it’s time get your lakehouse ready. When you are opening up your lake house this year, consider doing more than just opening some windows and vacuuming. Your HVAC system needs some attention by scheduling lakehouse air conditioning maintenance from the experts at Douglas Cooling & Heating. Our technicians are experienced and will get your unit running smoothly. If you are unsure if maintenance is necessary, consider the following three signs when running your air conditioner.

Sign #1: What Do You Hear?

An air conditioning system should be quiet and if your unit is making strange or loud noises, it’s time to schedule lakehouse air conditioning maintenance. Loud or unexpected noises are a warning sign something is wrong and maintenance is your best way to diagnose the problem before it escalates into something bigger. Noises from your air conditioner can mean any number of things. Debris, such as leaves, twigs, trash and rodent nests, can get lodged in the blower motor. Simple maintenance will clean your unit of the debris and your system will be ready for hot weather in no time.

If the problem is more serious, such as a condenser close to breaking or a bad compressor belt, lake house air conditioning maintenance will diagnose the problem so the appropriate measures can be taken to fix the damaged component quickly. A typical noise from your air conditioner is the blower or fan circulating while the air conditioner is running. Banging or rattling indicates a serious problem, so schedule maintenance immediately with Douglas Cooling & Heating to reduce the chance of breakdown.

Sign #2: What Do You Smell?

A healthy air conditioning system won’t produce a smell when operating. If you start your air conditioner up and you instantly smell a mildew odor, schedule lake house air conditioning maintenance. A mildew or moldy smell indicates mold might be growing somewhere inside your air conditioning system. You won’t know if the mold growth is in your actual unit or the ductwork until a Douglas Cooling & Heating professional inspects your air conditioner. Mold in your system can cause damage to your lake house and reduces your indoor air quality. Anyone in your family or visiting your lake house with allergies, asthma or respiratory issues will be greatly affected by the mold in your system.

Sign #3: What Do You Feel?

The most obvious sign there is a problem with your air conditioning system is when it blows warm or hot air. A healthy air conditioner will provide cool, crisp air throughout your lake house and if you aren’t getting it, schedule lake house air conditioning maintenance. Your air conditioner might blow cool air less cool than the last time it was used.

The issue might be simple, such as recharging the refrigerant level in the air conditioner. However, the best way ensure proper operation of your unit is to call Douglas Cooling & Heating. Our friendly and skilled NATE-certified technicians will inspect your system during maintenance and diagnose whatever is causing the problem with your unit preventing it from producing cold air.

Schedule your lake house air conditioning maintenance early and catch problems early! Our technicians will get your unit performing efficiently so you can seek shelter indoors from the summer heat. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating today!

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Top 3 Signs Your Lake House HVAC System Needs Maintenance

Don’t Go Broke Dealing With Furnace Breakdowns Before March Madness

Thursday, March 15th, 2018

Are you gearing up for March Madness by inviting family and friends over for a party? Before you start making a guest list and menu, ask yourself if your HVAC system is ready for houseguests and the fluctuating March temperatures. Dealing with furnace breakdowns at the last minute can be expensive and stressful. Here are some tips to get your heating and cooling system ready before you plan your celebration.

Tip #1: Schedule Preventative Maintenance

The most important tip to keep your system healthy and prevent furnace breakdowns is to schedule preventative maintenance. Douglas Cooling & Heating offers affordable maintenance plans conveniently with your busy schedule. Regular maintenance keeps your system clean, catches malfunctions early and extends the life of your equipment. Ensuring your system is kept healthy increases energy efficiency and saves you money on your monthly energy bill.

Tips #2: Change the Filter

One of the easiest ways you can prevent furnace breakdowns is by changing your furnace filter on a regular basis. The filter is responsible for catching any dust, dirt or debris in your air before it is circulated throughout your home. When the filter is dirty or clogged, it can’t properly filter the air and the dirt and dust reduce the airflow in your system. Restricted airflow forces your system to work harder and puts unnecessary stress on your HVAC system, creating higher energy bills.

Tip #3: Clean the Outdoor Unit

Most people forget about their outdoor unit, which can lead to malfunctions in the spring. Inspect the area around the outdoor unit for debris, such as leaves, twigs and branches. Check the exterior for damage from hail and winter storms. Debris on your unit and around it can interfere with the airflow and cause the unit to overheat. If you notice a layer of dust and dirt on the top of the coils, gently hose them off with water. If you notice a rodent or pest seeking shelter inside the outdoor unit, call Douglas Cooling & Heating to have the unit inspected. A pest infestation can lead to chewed wiring and damaged components. An HVAC repair is your safest bet to avoid HVAC failure this spring.

Tip #4: Schedule Ductwork Inspection

Before you get your March Madness party started, schedule an inspection of your ductwork. Our HVAC technicians will clean your ducts, vents and registers. If there are any air leaks found during the inspection, we will properly seal them to promote energy savings this spring and promote healthy airflow throughout your ductwork. Clean ducts free of leaks help your thermostat achieve accurate readings, also helping prevent furnace breakdowns.

Tip #5: Check Thermostat Settings

Thermostat settings can either make or break your HVAC system’s performance. When the thermostat settings are too high or low for the season, it puts extra stress on your unit. A furnace constantly kicking on when the outside weather is warm wastes energy and adds wear and tear to the components. A system always in use eventually experiences furnace breakdowns, which become costly to fix every time.

Tip #6: Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat

If you have an old thermostat now is time to upgrade to a smart, programmable thermostat for your March Madness party. Smart thermostats increase energy savings by boosting your HVAC system’s efficiency. You have more control over your temperature settings due to Wi-Fi capabilities between the smart thermostat and your smartphone, tablet or other Wi-Fi devices, as well as the thermostat’s learning capabilities for ideal comfort control. Energy reports are sent via email to share your heating and cooling system’s energy usage and suggest where savings can be achieved with your HVAC system. Smart thermostats even provide reminders to schedule maintenance and change filters. Alerts are sent when there is a problem with your unit so an HVAC repair can be scheduled quickly.

For more information about upgrading to a smart thermostat, call Douglas Cooling & Heating to speak with one of our NATE-certified technicians. We will suggest the best thermostat for your HVAC system and your home.

Save your money for snacks and prevent furnace breakdowns during your March Madness party by scheduling maintenance with Douglas Cooling & Heating. Our NATE-certified technicians are experienced and will deliver exceptional service every time. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating today!

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Don’t Go Broke Dealing With Furnace Breakdowns Before March Madness

Did Your Heat Pump Make it Through the Cold of Winter?

Wednesday, March 14th, 2018

Winter has been especially hard for some families in Alabama, which can affect their heating and cooling system heading into spring and summer. A furnace gets a break during late spring, summer and early fall and an air conditioner gets to relax during late fall, winter and early spring. A heat pump, on the other hand, operates year-round to provide ideal temperatures without taking a break.

The best way to ensure your heat pump is ready for the shift to spring is with heat pump maintenance performed by our NATE-certified technicians at Douglas Cooling & Heating. By scheduling maintenance with Douglas Cooling & Heating, you will experience several perks during the spring, summer and fall seasons.

Fewer HVAC Repairs

A heat pump irregularly cleaned or inspected will experience minor and major issues during the year. Heat pump maintenance catches these problems early and repairs them cheaper than if the problem continues, becoming expensive to repair in the future. The best defense against heat pump malfunctions and breakdowns is with regularly scheduled maintenance. You will save money down the road and reduce your stress from unexpected heat pumps failures.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Heat pump maintenance prevents a buildup of dust, dirt and other debris throughout your system, which affects its performance. When dust and other debris accumulate throughout your system, the airflow becomes restricted, forcing your system to work harder than necessary to supply controlled temperatures in your home. A heat pump constantly cycling on and off wastes energy, resulting in decreased efficiency. Your heat pump will provide ideal temperatures evenly throughout your home with regularly scheduled heat pump maintenance.

Reduced Energy Bills

Your heating and cooling system is responsible for almost half the energy use in your home. Heat pump maintenance allows your unit to operate less often and reduces the amount of stress put on its components. By reducing how often your heat pump cycles on and off, less energy is used during the day and creates a more efficient system. Less energy consumed by your heat pump produces lower monthly energy bills.

Longer Life of Your Heat Pump

A heat pump maintained on a regular basis can last an average of 14 years. When a heat pump is neglected, its lifespan is greatly reduced and needs expensive HVAC repairs to keep it operational. Problems are caught early with proper maintenance, which reduces the wear and tear on your unit and its components. Heat pump maintenance is important, especially when you aren’t ready to fork out extra money on a new heat pump. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule your heat pump maintenance with one of our experience NATE-certified technicians before temperatures start to rise.

What Happens During Heat Pump Maintenance?

During heat pump maintenance a variety of tasks are performed by our HVAC technicians. We will test all the electrical components in your system and the control board. Electrical malfunctions are common when a unit has been used excessively during the winter. If the filter hasn’t been replaced recently, we will check the current filter and replace or clean it depending on the type used in your heat pump. Inspection of the components during the maintenance call is vital so our technicians can identify signs of stress and repair or replace any damaged parts. We will also make sure the belts are in good condition and lubricate the motors. Other tasks performed during heat pump maintenance include:

Inspecting the refrigerant levels and checking for leaks
Measuring the airflow of the unit
Cleaning the outdoor and indoor unit thoroughly
Inspecting the ducts for leaks and repairing them if found
Checking the thermostat settings
Ensuring all connections are tight and
Inspecting the indoor coil and blower motor.

With winter coming to a close, your heat pump needs to be inspected, cleaned and prepped for the upcoming spring and summer weather. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule heat pump maintenance with one of our NATE-certified technicians. With proper care, you can prevent costly repairs in the future on your heat pump.

Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on Did Your Heat Pump Make it Through the Cold of Winter?