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how to see the age of your AC system

Easiest Way to See AC System Age and Condition

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Knowing how to see the age and condition of your AC system can save you money and headaches. Older units often struggle to keep up with cooling demands, leading to higher energy bills, inconsistent temperatures, and costly repairs. Having an idea of your AC’s status gives you the power to plan ahead—whether that means scheduling maintenance, budgeting for a replacement, or simply ensuring your home stays comfortable.

This guide will walk you through the easiest ways to check your AC system’s age and assess its condition, so you can make smart decisions for your home and wallet.

Why the Age and Condition of Your AC Matters

Knowing how old your AC system is can save you from unexpected breakdowns and unnecessary expenses.

Older systems tend to work harder, which means higher energy bills and a greater chance of costly repairs. An aging unit may also struggle to cool your home evenly, leading to uncomfortable hot spots.

Planning becomes easier when you understand your AC’s status. Whether you’re budgeting for a replacement, scheduling maintenance, or buying a home, knowing this information allows you to make smarter decisions for your household.

outdoor ac unit how to see age

How to See the Age of an AC System

Finding the age of your AC system starts with locating the manufacturer’s label. This label typically includes a serial number or model code that contains the manufacturing date. Here’s where to look:

  • Outdoor condenser unit: Check for a metal plate or sticker, usually located on the side or back of the unit near the electrical panel.
  • Indoor evaporator coil: Look for a label on the air handler, which is often inside a utility closet, basement, or attic. The label is commonly found on the side or front panel of the unit.

Once you locate the label, identify the serial number or model code. Many manufacturers encode the year and month of production into this number. For example, some brands use the first two digits of the serial number to indicate the year, while others may use a combination of letters and numbers.

If the label is missing or hard to read, other options include:

  • Checking the owner’s manual or any service records
  • Contacting the manufacturer with the serial number for verification

Signs of Aging and Issues

Older AC systems often show clear warning signs that they may need extra attention or replacement. These include:
  • Reduced cooling efficiency, such as struggling to maintain a set temperature
  • Frequent cycling on and off or unusual performance fluctuations
  • Rising energy bills compared to previous months or years
  • Physical wear, including rust, leaks, or cracks in the unit
  • Strange noises, such as grinding or hissing, or unusual odors
Most AC systems are designed to last 10 to 15 years with proper care. If your system is approaching this range or showing several of these issues, it might be time to prepare for a replacement or professional inspection.

How to Assess Your System’s Current Condition

Checking the condition of your AC system can be done with a few straightforward steps:
  • Inspect the air filters for dirt or blockages that could restrict airflow.
  • Examine the outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator coils for signs of wear, debris, or damage.
  • Test the thermostat to ensure it adjusts temperatures correctly and responds quickly.
  • Listen for unusual sounds, like rattling or grinding, while the system is running.
  • Clear any debris, such as leaves or dirt, around the outdoor unit to improve airflow.
Routine checks like these can catch minor issues before they escalate and ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible.

HVAC Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your AC system and keeping it running efficiently. Simple but effective tasks include:
  • Replacing air filters every 1 to 3 months to maintain airflow and reduce strain on the system.
  • Cleaning the outdoor unit to remove dirt and debris that could block airflow.
  • Scheduling a professional tune-up annually to inspect key components and prevent potential issues.
These routine steps not only improve performance but also save money on energy bills and repairs over time.
how to maintain your ac system regardless of age

When to Call a Professional

Some issues with your AC system go beyond what routine maintenance can fix. A professional inspection is essential in several scenarios, including:
  • Difficulty determining the system’s age due to missing or unclear labels
  • Persistent performance issues, such as refrigerant leaks, electrical malfunctions, or uneven cooling
  • Buying or selling a home, when an expert evaluation can provide valuable insights
Professionals have the expertise and tools to identify hidden problems, ensure safe operation, and recommend whether repair or replacement is the best course of action. Relying on their knowledge can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Conclusion

Understanding where to see the age and condition of your AC system is one of the easiest ways to avoid unexpected repairs and maintain a comfortable home. Regular checks and maintenance can keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.

For expert HVAC evaluations and more, trust Inside and Out Property Inspectors to help you make informed decisions, whether you’re buying a new home or looking to optimize your current system.

air purifier vs dehumidifier

What’s the Difference? Air Purifier vs Dehumidifier

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When it comes to indoor air quality, knowing the difference between an air purifier vs dehumidifier is crucial. Both devices play unique roles in creating a healthier living environment, but understanding which one is right for you can make all the difference.

This article will help you navigate the key differences between air purifiers and dehumidifiers so you can make an informed decision for your space. Whether you’re battling allergies, dealing with dampness, or just looking to breathe easier, we’ve got you covered.

What is an Air Purifier?

An air purifier cleans the air by removing contaminants and pollutants. It does this by drawing air through filters that capture particles, allergens, and odors. There are several types of Air Purifiers:

  • HEPA Filters: Capture tiny particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
  • Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb odors and chemical fumes.
  • UV Purifiers: Kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms using UV light.
  • Ionizers: Release negative ions that attach to airborne particles, causing them to fall out of the air.

Air purifiers enhance air quality by removing pollutants, reducing respiratory issues, and improving overall health. They are particularly useful for those with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to airborne particles.

When to Use an Air Purifier

If you have allergies, asthma, or live with pets or smokers, an air purifier can help. It’s also beneficial in areas with high pollution or poor ventilation.

Place air purifiers in high-traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms. Position them away from walls and furniture for proper airflow.

What is a Dehumidifier?

Next, as its name suggests, a dehumidifier reduces humidity levels in the air. It aims to make your indoor environment less hospitable to mold, mildew, and dust mites. This works by drawing in moist air, extracting the moisture, and releasing drier air back into the room. Here are the primary types of dehumidifiers:

  • Refrigerant (Compressor) Dehumidifiers: These are the most common type, using a refrigeration cycle to condense moisture from the air.
  • Desiccant Dehumidifiers: These use a moisture-absorbing material to remove humidity, working well in lower temperatures.

Dehumidifiers help control humidity levels, preventing issues like mold growth and musty odors.

When to Use a Dehumidifier

If you notice dampness, mold growth, musty odors, or condensation on windows, a dehumidifier can help.

It’s also useful in basements, bathrooms, or any space prone to high humidity.

Place dehumidifiers in areas with high moisture levels like basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Ensure proper airflow around the unit for maximum efficiency.

An air purifier's function vs a dehumidifier's function

Air Purifier vs Dehumidifier: Key Differences

While both air purifiers and dehumidifiers improve indoor air quality, they do so in different ways and are suited for different issues.

Function

  • Air Purifiers clean the air by removing contaminants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and odors. They use various types of filters like HEPA, activated carbon, UV light, and ionizers to capture and neutralize pollutants, improving overall air quality and reducing respiratory issues.
  • Dehumidifiers reduce the humidity levels in the air, making it less hospitable to mold, mildew, and dust mites. They draw in moist air, extract the moisture, and release drier air back into the room. Dehumidifiers are especially effective in preventing mold growth and reducing allergens in damp environments.

Air Impacts

When it comes to the differences they make in your home, air purifiers are best for removing airborne particles and allergens, making the air cleaner and easier to breathe, especially for those with allergies or asthma.

However, dehumidifiers are best for controlling moisture levels to prevent mold and mildew growth, reduce musty odors, and create a more comfortable living environment.

Optimal Placements

Finally, air Purifiers are Ideal for areas with high levels of airborne pollutants such as living rooms, bedrooms, and any space where clean air is essential.

Conversely, dehumidifiers are suitable for damp areas like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and any space prone to high humidity.

You'll get better performance with a clean air purifier or dehumidifier filter vs an old, dirty one.

A person replacing the filter in an air purifier.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Regular maintenance of both air purifiers and dehumidifiers is essential to ensure their efficiency and longevity.

For air purifiers, regularly cleaning and replacing filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial. This prevents the buildup of contaminants and maintains the device’s ability to effectively clean the air.

For dehumidifiers, it’s important to regularly empty and clean the water tank to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Also, check the coils and filters for any dirt or debris and clean them as needed.

When to Call a Professional

If you have persistent air quality problems that don’t improve with the use of air purifiers or dehumidifiers, it’s a sign that a more thorough assessment is needed.

Complex mold problems or high humidity levels that lead to structural damage require professional intervention to ensure proper treatment and prevention. Lastly, if you experience severe allergy or asthma symptoms despite using these devices, a professional can provide targeted solutions and advice.

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between an air purifier vs a dehumidifier is helpful since selecting one depends on your specific needs.

In essence, air purifiers are great for removing allergens and pollutants from the air, while dehumidifiers control moisture, preventing mold and musty odors. Using both can provide the best results for improving indoor air quality.

If you have questions about your home’s air quality or want to schedule an expert inspection, call Inside and Out Property Inspections in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas.

Air conditioner will work as a dehumidifier.

Do Air Conditioners Dehumidify?

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When it comes to owning a home, there are a variety of maintenance and cleaning needs. Additionally, you will want to ensure that everything in your home is working properly. Make sure that you have an understanding of how every system in your home functions. This will save you time and money as you work through your maintenance checklist. Also, ensure that the conditions in your home are conducive to keeping the home safe and free from mold. Humidity will promote mold growth, so ensure your air conditioner is working to dehumidify your home as it runs. Do air conditioners dehumidify? Yes, it will remove moisture from the air that gets sucked into the AC unit as it cools the air down.

Let’s take a look below at some more details regarding dehumidifying and cooling your home.

What Does It Mean To Dehumidify?

Dehumidifying your home means removing moisture from the air. The air conditioner will act as a dehumidifier while it runs in your home. The air conditioner will not completely remove all moisture from your home, but it will remove some. If your home shows a high moisture reading, then you will want to invest in an additional dehumidifier. Run your air conditioner at a temperature that is consistent with the outdoor air. Consequently, this allows the unit to reduce the moisture from the air as it sucks it into the unit and blows the warm air out.

Outside air handler pushed out hot air that is taken in and dehumidified by your air conditioner.

How Does It Work In An Air Conditioner?

Let’s take a look at how the air conditioning system works to remove excess moisture from your home.

  • Liquid refrigerant – When the ac unit kicks on it will push refrigerant through the pipes within the unit. Excess heat is then removed.
  • Evaporator – The cold air will then be pushed through to each room by the evaporator in the system.
  • Liquid refrigerant – The liquid refrigerant is then converted to gas once it passes through the expansion valve.
  • Evaporator coils – The evaporator coils cool the refrigerant once the refrigerant is pushed through the evaporator coils.
  • AC fans – The internal fans in the AC unit then push the cool air from the evaporator coils through the air ducts in the home.
  • Liquid refrigerant – The refrigerant then absorbs the hot air from the home and converts it to a hot gas.
  • Compressor – Next, the refrigerant is pushed into the compressor where it becomes a high-temperature and high-pressure gas.
  • Condenser coils – The gas is then pushed through the condenser coils and the heat that was absorbed is released through the outside unit.

When Should I Purchase A Dehumidifier?

If you aren’t sure when you will need to purchase a dehumidifier to dehumidify the air, it should be considered under the following circumstances. Also, read up on how a dehumidifier works with your central air conditioners.

  • Personal preference – If the environment in your home does not feel like the humidity levels are where they need to be, you will want to purchase a dehumidifier. Consider determining the type of environment that you want the rooms that you spend your time in to feel like.
  • Budget – An AC unit’s cost is expensive compared to a dehumidifier. Purchasing a dehumidifier will go a long way toward reducing the humidity in the home. Dehumidifiers are portable and inexpensive.
  • Location – If you live near water, then the moisture levels in your home will be exponentially high. Installing a dehumidifier will help keep the moisture levels in your home from getting out of hand.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Now that you are aware of how an air conditioner dehumidifies your home, you can read up on whether or not your ceiling fans help the ac unit. Placing your ceiling fans on the correct rotation allows you to assist your ac unit with maintaining the airflow and moisture control in your home.

Next, read up on what you need to consider when you replace your HVAC unit. Homeowners should not rush into replacing their HVAC unit without researching how long the new one could last. Also, research the size of the HVAC unit to ensure that it fits your home’s needs.

Lastly, as you install your new ac unit or work to repair your current unit, keep in mind that carbon monoxide should be a non-issue. Any electrical system like an HVAC unit will not emit carbon monoxide.

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The thermostat is the main control for whether or not your air conditioner can properly dehumidify.

When Do I Call A Professional?

When it comes to your HVAC unit, you will want to make sure that it is working properly. Keeping the humidity levels in your home at a stable level will allow you to keep mold and mildew from growing in your air ducts and home. Call on your local home inspection team to inspect your HVAC unit and determine that everything is working properly. Also, your home inspection team can recommend a reputable HVAC system service technician to test your system.

Conclusion

Hiring the right professional HVAC service technician is necessary to determine that your system is set to remove excess moisture from your home. Not only is the goal of the HVAC unit to provide your home with the right air temperatures, but it also wants to maintain indoor air quality. Dehumidifying your home will need assistance. The air conditioning unit will not be able to remove all of the moisture on its own. Call on your local home inspection team to determine where additional dehumidifiers could be used. Reach out to Inside and Out Property Inspectors in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your home inspection done today.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is not likely from your HVAC.

Does Air Conditioning Have Carbon Monoxide

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When it comes to owning a home, protecting your family and protecting your investment are key parts. Buying a home that is structurally sound and free of issues is what every home buyer looks for. When buying a home, make sure that your home inspection team covers all details of the home with regard to any fuel-burning appliances. Typically, fuel-burning appliances are where we see carbon monoxide possibly entering the home. Stoves, fireplaces, and gas-powered furnaces are the likely culprits. Does air conditioning have carbon monoxide? No, air conditioners are run via electricity and cannot emit carbon monoxide into your home.

Let’s take a look below at what carbon monoxide is and some ways it could enter your home.

What Is Carbon Monoxide

When it comes to carbon monoxide you would not realize if it were present in your air. This is due to carbon monoxide being an odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas. Homeowners would need to install a carbon monoxide detector to best protect their families from this toxic gas. For the most part, there are only a few appliances that have the potential to release carbon monoxide gas. Additionally, a running car will release carbon monoxide as it burns fuel.

What Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is defined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as the effects caused to human health as a result of carbon monoxide inhalation. Those symptoms include but are not limited to the following:

  • Memory loss
  • Shortness of breath (Respiratory issues)
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pains

If any of these symptoms exist you should call the fire department right away. Do not discredit these symptoms as the possible flu or another sickness. Carbon monoxide poisoning is known to kill 430 people a year. Also, it has been recorded that over 50,000 people a year get sent to the hospital as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Common items that can produce carbon monoxide.

How Can I Prevent It

Fortunately, as a homeowner, there are a few things that you can do to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your home and causing some health issues. Let’s take a look below at some precautions that you can take.

  • Monitor gas-powered tools and cars – do not run your car idle in the garage, even if the door is open. Also, if you use gas-powered tools, gas stoves, or gas-powered grills, use them outside. Never start them inside your home. They could have carbon monoxide leaks.
  • Maintenance – be sure to properly maintain your HVAC unit. There is a possibility that if damaged, it could release carbon monoxide.
  • Carbon Monoxide detector – install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector. They operate very similar to smoke detectors and can save your life. Place them in your bedrooms so that if there is a release of carbon monoxide into your home while you are sleeping, the detection system will awaken you so you can escape the poisonous gas.
  • Professional service – if you need repairs on appliances that are known to have the potential to release carbon monoxide, hire a professional. Do not attempt to make repairs on your own to the HVAC system or any other appliance that could release CO.

Air conditioning systems are likely not the source of carbon monoxide in your home. Air conditioners cannot produce carbon monoxide since they use electricity and not gas. In a furnace, gas is sometimes used and the heating system or heat exchanger could emit carbon monoxide.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Now that you have a better understanding of what carbon monoxide is and how it can enter your home, you can better protect your family. Your first goal is to get to fresh air. Opening a window will help, but likely will not completely get rid of carbon monoxide. Be sure to follow up with emergency services, so that they can test your home for carbon monoxide levels.

Next, keep an eye on your maintenance schedule. Make sure that any item in your home that is capable of releasing carbon monoxide into your home, is maintained. For example, your water heater might be powered by gas. To ensure that it isn’t releasing carbon monoxide into your home, you will want to make sure the water heater is maintained.

Lastly, if you want to keep your family safe, install the appropriate detection system. If you are using natural gas, you will want to install an explosive gas alarm and a carbon monoxide detector. The carbon monoxide detector alone will not suffice.

Install a carbon monoxide detector to keep your family safe.

When Do I Call A Professional

When it comes to the safety of your home, you should take every precaution necessary. Installing a carbon monoxide detection system is the best way to protect your family from the unknown. Hire your local home inspection team to come out and inspect all of the appliances with the potential for producing carbon monoxide. Also, they can recommend a quality carbon monoxide detection system.

Conclusion

Understanding that you will never truly know if carbon monoxide is pouring into your home should be enough reason to purchase a detection system. Your health and safety should be at the forefront of any decision regarding your family. Since carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless, and colorless, you will want to take every precaution necessary to protect your family. If you aren’t sure the best way to do this. Reach out to Inside and Out Property Inspectors in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your home inspection done today.

Keep your floor air vents open for good air flow.

Does Closing Air Vents Help Cool Other Rooms

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When it comes to owning a home, there are many misconceptions that homeowners are made aware of. You should always ask a professional for information to confirm whether or not the myths regarding various home systems are true. It is never good to assume that something like closing your air vents is good for your ac unit. Does closing air vents help cool other rooms? Although this might be a good idea, too much damage could occur to your ac unit.

Let’s take a look below at some of the ways you could damage your HVAC system, but closing your air vents.

What Are Air Vents

There are a variety of air vents that run through your home. In some homes, air vents are located on the floor, and in other homes, air vents are located on the ceiling. Regardless of where they are located, air vents serve the same purpose. Circulating hot or cold air is hugely important for keeping the home’s moisture and humidity under the best conditions. Keeping your air dampers open as recommended by the manufacturer is key. Make sure that you are allowing your air vents to work as intended.

Do not close your air vents to cool other rooms.
Keep all air vents open.

Will Closing The Vents Cause Damage

Believe it or not, closing your air vents is not a good idea. There are a variety of issues that can arise if your air vents are incorrectly closed. Let’s take a look at some of the more pressing issues that could occur.

  • Damaged system – closing your air vents can prevent proper airflow. This allows the cold air to back up against the system and freeze the ac coils. This will substantially damage your ac unit.
  • Ductwork damage – if the air vents are closed air pressure can build up. This will cause the air ducts to leak or possibly explode. Any increase in your static pressure causes leaks and destruction to air ductwork.
  • Energy efficiency reduction – the build-up of pressure due to closed air vents will cause the airflow to be redirected to other parts of your home. Energy efficiency is drastically reduced as the air sneaks outside of the home, into the crawl space, or even can leak into your attic.
  • Mold – closing the air vents cause a drop in air temperatures, which increases condensation in your ductwork. This becomes a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Once you begin smelling a musty smell coming from your air vents, you will know that you have an issue.
  • Carbon Monoxide – closing off the airflow to certain unused rooms is not a good idea. The heat exchanged in your HVAC unit could end up cracking. If this occurs, carbon monoxide gas could be released into the home. If the levels get to unhealthy counts, your carbon monoxide detector will sound off.

The way your heating and cooling system work, it is important not to redirect the air and reduce airflow. Keep in mind, that closing off the air vents in various locations in the home will cause the air conditioner to work harder and the vents increase your hot and cold spots in the home. Also, you will notice energy bill costs will increase, and your idea of saving energy expenses with your air conditioning unit is wiped out.

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Other Recommended Maintenance

Now that you are aware of how closing your air vents could cause damage to your ac unit, go ahead and read up on how to thaw your ac coils. With freezing ac coils being one of the areas damaged by closing your air vents, you will want to know how to thaw your ac coils. Also, make sure that you understand how long it takes to thaw ac coils.

Next, if you begin to notice some water spots forming around your air handler unit, it is possible that water is leaking. Also, make sure that you understand why your air handler might be leaking water. In some cases, there is a frozen part of the air handler that begins to thaw when the system shuts off. That thawing item will leak the water onto the walls of the air handler closet.

Lastly, if you do not know where your air vent dampers are located, be sure to ask your HVAC service professional. They can point out the location of your dampers so that you can ensure they don’t get closed. Accidentally closing your dampers will cause major issues and cost you money.

Always keep your air vents open and clear so that air flow is consistent.
Closing air vents do not cool an extra room.

When Do I Call A Professional

Anytime you are dealing with an HVAC system concern, you should reach out to your local HVAC service technician. Before you go making changes to your system, call out a professional to go over the best ways to save money. Also, they can discuss with you your questions regarding the best maintenance for airflow and circulation in your home. Additionally, if you aren’t sure which HVAC service company to call, reach out to your local home inspection team. They can inspect your HVAC system, and recommend a reputable HVAC service technician.

Conclusion

Dealing with HVAC systems is never fun. However, as a homeowner, it is best not to mess around with systems of your home that you know little about. The moment you start adjusting or changing systems in your home is the moment bad things could occur. Call on your local professional HVAC service technician to explain all of your HVAC system workings.

Additionally, if you aren’t sure how old your HVAC system is or are just curious if the system installed meets the needs of your home, call on your local home inspection team. They can come out and assess your HVAC system and make recommendations for any changes. Contact Inside and Out Property Inspectors in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your home inspection done today.

Central heat

Why Is My Central Heater Blowing Cold Air

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Imagine coming home from work and all you wanted to do was sit on the couch and cozy up to a good book. It is cold outside and getting out of the elements and getting warm has been your top priority. You click on your furnace and head for the couch. After reading through the first five pages of your favorite book, you begin to realize, the furnace is not working properly. No warm air is circulating through the vents. Instead, you reach for the vent and notice that cold air is blowing through your system! As if it wasn’t already cold enough from the outside weather. Why is my central heater blowing cold air? The pilot light is out, your filter is dirty, or the thermostat isn’t working.

Those are all possible reasons for cold air to be blowing through your central heater. Let’s take a look below at some more details regarding why your central heater is blowing cold air.

What Is Central Heating

Simply put, central heating is the ability for your heating system that is associated with your HVAC unit to blow warm air throughout your entire home. Many homes that were built over fifty years ago were done so without any central heating or cooling elements.

Thermostat issues can cause the central heater to blow cold air.

Why Does This Happen

Understanding how your central heat and central air work in your home is an important first step to understanding why your central heater could be blowing cold air. Let’s look at a list of reasons as to how this might happen.

  • Thermostat Issues – anytime your thermostat is set incorrectly, it causes the furnace to blow cold air. Check the thermostat. Do not forget to switch your device to the heat position. Make sure that the unit is set on the “Auto” position and not the “On” position. This ensures that the fan isn’t continuously running when the unit is off. Keeping the unit on “Auto” ensures the fan and the furnace come on at the same time. This saves money and stress as you worry about the heat in colder months.
  • Furnace Takes A While To Heat Up – keep in mind that just because you have turned the furnace on does not mean hot air blows out immediately. Just like any mechanical device, it takes time for your furnace to heat up. If you don’t have warm air blowing through your vents after waiting 15 minutes, then you could have an issue.
  • Dirty Furnace Filter – a dirty air filter can stop the airflow over your furnace’s heat exchanger. If this happens your emergency shut down switch will kick on and turn off the system. This prevents your system from over-heating and will not create heated air.
  • Pilot Light Is Out – if the pilot light is out on your gas furnace, there is nothing to heat the gas that is flowing through your heater. Most newer models do not require a pilot light. However, if you have a gas heater in your home, you will have a pilot light that will use natural gas supply or propane gas supply to warm your heating cycle.
  • Overheating – if your heating unit is overheating, there is a safety feature switch that shuts down your furnace and air conditioner. This is built-in to prevent fire, explosion, or even carbon monoxide gas exposure.
Dirty air filter
Dirty air filter

How Does It Overheat

Unfortunately, just about every electrical or mechanical invention has the potential to overheat. How they are built can determine if the damage is severe or if safety measures are installed to prevent damage. The three main reasons for a system to overheat are as follows:

  • Old Age – most furnaces last about 10 to 15 years. As the heating elements in your system get old, parts begin to decline in their performance. If you do not perform regular maintenance, your system will fail a lot faster.
  • Mechanical Fails – furnaces have many moving parts. Once they begin to malfunction, issues will arise. If your furnace isn’t working properly, it will begin to blow cold air and start to overheat. The emergency switch will shut off the furnace to save it from further damage and destruction.
  • Dirt Build-up – if your filter gets clogged for any reason, the heater will blow cold air. A dirty filter prevents the air from passing over the heat exchanger. This can cause the system to overheat and start a shutdown.

What Does It Cost

Getting your furnace or any portion of your HVAC system repaired is never fun and never cheap. The national average for AC repair costs could range from $200 to $750. This varies based on labor and materials needed and whether the unit is under any warranty. Homes with multiple HVAC units could see their repairs go beyond $2,500. The average HVAC technician charges $90 to $150 per hour for labor on your central HVAC unit.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Spring is right around the corner so this is a great time to have maintenance done on the HVAC unit. You will want to do things such as clean around the unit, replace the filter, clean around the condensing unit, and clean the condensation line. Also, adjusting the thermostat is a good idea, depending on where you live.

Take a look around the HVAC unit and if there is water, there may be a few reasons for this. It can be there is a clogged condensate line, refrigerant is low, a drip pan is broken, dirty air filter, or broken condensate pump.

Finally, while the furnace is being inspected, make sure that the entire HVAC system is inspected and serviced. Check the HVAC system.  This should be done twice a year. If you want to avoid any additional expensive repairs, stay on top of your maintenance recommendations. HVAC systems can give you 10-15 years of quality output. However, in Florida, the longevity of an HVAC system is decreased in coastal areas due to salty air.

Furnace issues.
Furnace issues.

When Do I Call A Professional

Anytime you are experiencing issues with your HVAC system, it is best to call on a professional. Understanding the ways your system heats and cools your home can be difficult. There are so many working parts associated with your HVAC system. When areas of your system begin to malfunction, there are only a few ways a homeowner can troubleshoot the system. Otherwise, a professional HVAC company is necessary to ensure that all parts are working properly. It is also recommended that you call on your local home inspection team. Not only can they inspect your HVAC system, but they can inspect other areas of your home that could contribute to faulty HVAC operations.

Conclusion

Reaching out to your local HVAC service company as well as your local home inspection company allows you to ensure that any issues with your HVAC unit are taken care of. Aside from replacing your HVAC unit’s filter in your air handler unit and checking to see if the pilot light is working on your furnace, there aren’t too many other areas that you can manage as a homeowner. At this time, it is in your best interest to call on the professionals.

Not only can your local home inspection team complete a full home inspection, but they can also refer the most reputable HVAC service company in your area. This can save you time and money. You might end up with multiple projects that need completion and without the inspection, you would not otherwise be made aware of those additional projects.  Contact Inside and Out Property Inspectors in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your home inspection done today.

HVAC Damper

Where Are HVAC Dampers Located

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Sitting around the house and you begin to realize that the air flow doesn’t seem right. The cooler months are coming and you want to ensure that heat is able to circulate properly throughout the home. There are a couple of ways to ensure that heat is flowing throughout the home. If you have a fireplace, that is a great start to create some heat energy for your main room of the home. Turning up the thermostat to a higher temperature also allows you to have heat in the home.

What if you have a second level and the airflow is struggling to warm the upstairs? You are likely to need to make an adjustment to your HVAC system. Having dampers in your system allows you to cut off the airflow so that the natural heat rises and warms your upstairs. Where are HVAC dampers located? They are located a few feet from the base of the unit, on every air duct run, and away from the air handler.

Let’s take a look below at some more details regarding dampers.

HVAC dampers

What Are Dampers

Dampers are typically found in older HVAC units. Currently, HVAC contractors save money by leaving out the damper option in new construction. Dampers are put into an HVAC unit system in order to change the flow of air through each room of the home. These allow you to adjust the hot or cold airflow so that you can concentrate the air to one area of the home. Presently, there are electronic options to control the damper system from your temperature control unit on the wall. It might be a good idea to upgrade your system by having an electronic control option installed.

An example of an HVAC damper.

Where Do I Find A Damper

The most standard dampers are found a few feet from the base of the HVAC unit. As you enter your crawl space or air handler unit in a closet, you notice the main connections to the trunk of the HVAC unit. Most homes with a second level will have dampers in their HVAC system. Check your air duct runs as they flow away from the main unit. You should be able to determine if there are dampers located in each run of ductwork. Furthermore, make sure to have your home inspection company check the system thoroughly during a home inspection.

How Much Do They Cost

Fortunately, if you have a system in place that is lacking a damper option, you can have some installed into your current system. The cost is relatively inexpensive. You are looking at a part cost of roughly $200 and a professional installation cost of around $500.

Other Recommended Maintenance

While you are searching for your air dampers, another reason for your airflow to change could be insulation. Making sure that all areas of your home are properly insulated is very important. Check the garage to ensure it is insulated properly. If you aren’t sure about the garage insulation, read up on some of your options. You would be surprised at the change in airflow with a simple insulation upgrade.

Another area where heat or cool air can escape is your roof. Since you are having a home inspection conducted to find your dampers, you should also get a roof inspection done at the same time. This saves time and money and extra potential repair headaches. Additionally, take a look at the roof inspection checklist at least once a year. For example, in Florida, it is best to do this after hurricane season.

Finally, while the dampers are being located, make sure that the entire HVAC system is inspected and serviced. Check the HVAC system.  This should be done twice a year to ensure the integrity of the system is maintained. Most HVAC systems give you 10-15 years, however, in Florida, the life expectancy will be decreased in coastal areas and salty air.

When Do I Call A Professional

Although it might seem easy to adjust a damper on your HVAC unit by yourself. You might want to consider calling out a professional HVAC company. Heating and cooling can be finicky business and if the system is not installed properly, you might end up doing more damage than good. Simply closing off one of the dampers is not the best solution.

Before you go and commit to adjusting or changing the dampers in your system, call on a professional HVAC contractor. In addition, they can tell you if you even have dampers in your system. Not all HVAC systems have dampers. Save yourself time and energy and call a professional.

Conclusion

Calling on your local HVAC unit service company and home inspection services allows you to locate all dampers in your HVAC unit. Although, it is fairly easy for you to walk around your attic and identify if there are dampers it is recommended to call on professionals. Your home inspection team can recommend a quality HVAC service company to come out and install dampers as needed. This helps protect the airflow of your home. Check out our home inspection services in the Jacksonville, Area!

HVAC unit

How Long Do HVAC Systems Last

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HVAC systems are a necessity in the home, no matter if you live in a warm or cold climate. It can be very expensive to replace a unit so keeping up with the maintenance is important. However, the HVAC, like all things, has a lifespan and there may come a time in which you try to repair it to find out that you actually need to replace it.

How long do HVAC systems last? About 10-15 years but it also depends on the climate in which you live, especially if you are in a coastal town, if chemicals are used in the home, and how the HVAC unit is maintained. It is expensive to replace so do what you can to get the most out of the unit.

Let’s take a look at the HVAC system and signs that you may need to replace the unit or repair, the lifespan of various HVAC units, and maintenance to keep your HVAC working.

Signs Replacing Is Needed

HVAC is Close to 10 Years Old or Older

A typical HVAC unit should last you 10 years of longer. However, this is not always the case. If you fail to maintain your HVAC unit with yearly maintenance, then it is likely that your units lifespan will fail you. The lifespan of an HVAC unit is predicated on the local weather conditions and how much time you invest into maintaining your basic system needs.

Do you change the AC filters on a regular basis, or even suck out the drain lines on your AC unit? Have you called a professional for yearly maintenance on the unit? All of the answers to these questions will determine the lifespan of your HVAC unit.

air conditioner repair

Breaks Down Frequently

The most common reason for your AC unit to break down is lack of yearly maintenance. A licensed professional will be able to inspect and identify any troubling situations that might arise prior to the summer months. However, if your HVAC unit is breaking down even after the maintenance schedule, it is a cause for concern. At this point, frequent repairs might be in order. This is way better than a full unit replacement. However, you should start preparing for a replacement unit just in case.

Electric Bill Has Gone Up….A Lot

Should you notice a dramatic change in your electric bill, you will want to check a few things first. Higher energy bills are often a cause for alarm that your air conditioner is getting old. It may mean that it cannot keep up with the demands of the inside and outside weather conditions.

Efficiency and malfunctions are the two main causes for your energy bill to rise. If the energy bill has gone up on more than two occasions, it is definitely recommended that you look into the functionality of your system.

Your A/C Unit Uses R22 Freon

Just in case you were not aware, the use of Freon in an AC unit has been discontinued in the U.S. as of January 1, 2020. What this means for you is if you have an older AC unit that requires a Freon boost in order to maintain proper working conditions, this might cause you to replace the unit. Also, because there is very little R22 available, it is very expensive. Newer models use 410A and don’t need to worry about R22.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are huge negative effects to using Freon in the environment. With that being said, it is highly recommended that any person that owns a location with an AC unit that requires Freon should start saving for an AC replacement.

Here is a video about when to repair or replace the system

Replace or Repair?

A professional can tell you if you are wasting your money on the repairs or if the unit is close to the end of its lifespan. It costs between $3,000- $12,000 to replace an HVAC system. It will depend on the size of your home as to the size of the unit you need. Also, if you are seeing the technician often, think about the amount of money you are spending.

You may be surprised that by buying a new unit you will save money in the end because it will run better and you don’t need to have an AC company on speed dial. Of course, find out if you need a simple repair. A technician can help you figure out the best route to go, especially if the system is still “young” and has years left.

furnace is part of the HVAC system

Lifespan of Different HVAC Systems

Furnace

The life expectancy of your furnace is 15-25 years. This is predicated on the proper yearly maintenance of your furnace. A furnace is typically replaced when the heat exchanger starts leaking. Oil furnaces will cause a bigger problem after 10-15 years, if they aren’t maintained properly as well.

Heat Pump

Your typical heat pump can last you 10-20 years, depending upon the amount of time that you use it. In order to maintain its functionality, it is important to maintain the capability of providing heating and cooling each year. It’s also highly possible that a heat pump that is located in the coastal areas will suffer an earlier breakdown due to the salt air and weather conditions.

Boiler is part of the HVAC system

Boiler

Your boiler is typically only replaced when the heat exchanger is leaking. Most boilers will last 20-35 years.

An HVAC that needs replacing

Air Conditioner

The air conditioner will typically last you 15 to 20 years depending upon your maintenance schedule. The issue with your AC unit is typically when the compressor fails or the condenser develops corrosion and begins to leak. Unfortunately, in more coastal areas, the AC units begin to fail at a faster rate due to weather conditions and salt air.

However, if you live on the beach in Florida, it may last only 5 years!

Factors That Affect the Life of the HVAC

Air conditioner freezes up – if this happens, it may be due to lack of airflow, broken or crushed duct, dust on the coils, or low refrigerant to name a few.

Blower Motor – this can go bad if you hear strange sounds, there is overheating, or weak airflow. You will want to call a professional if there are any issues.

Replace the air filter

Maintenance of the HVAC

Replace the Air Filter – you will need to replace the air filter every 1 -3 months depending on the environment in your home. This means, if you have dogs, or someone who smokes, you may need to change it every month. If you don’t, you may be able to do it every 3 months. Take a look at it each month and if it starts to look clogged, it may be time to replace the filter.

Clean Around the Unit – make sure grass and plants are not growing into the unit. This can cause the unit to break down.

Condensation Line Needs Cleaning Out – You can do this every month: Add ¼ cup vinegar to the drain.  Next, let it sit for 30 minutes, flush it out and it should clear.  This will allow it to kill harmful bacteria, sludge, mold, and algae.

Adjust the Thermostat– always keep the temperature inside the home cooler than it is outside the home.

Other Areas for Maintenance

Attic

You want to help keep your home cool so the HVAC systems don’t have to work as hard in the summer. One way to do this is to keep the attic cool. Keeping the attic cool can be done by having enough insulation in the home, light color shingles, sealing cracks, and shade landscaping to name a few.

When to Call a Professional

It is imperative that you call a professional to check on your HVAC unit when you hear strange noises. It is recommended that you also utilize a professional HVAC service at least twice a year to do maintenance and a system checkup. Failing to do your yearly maintenance can cause the system to break down and cost you a lot of money in the long run.

Conclusion

The HVAC systems in a home are the most vital parts of you living comfortably in the heat and cold weather conditions. Although most HVAC systems last 10 to 15 years, it is important for a homeowner to maintain the system. It is far more costly to neglect the HVAC system in a home, and much smarter to maintain and save money on a yearly basis. Inside and Out Property Inspectors will check your HVAC unit during a home inspection in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, FL.

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