Blog

• Asbestos
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Cookstoves
• Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products
• Lead (Pb) 
• Pesticides
• Radon (Rn) 
• Secondhand Smoke
• VOCs
• Wood Smoke

What affects indoor air quality?

In addition to the things we listed above, other factors that is affecting our indoor air quality, is the air exchange rate, occupant behavior,  outdoor climate, and the weather conditions. Of those, the indoor air exchange rate with the outdoor air is important. 

The air exchange rate is affected by the construction, design, and the operating parameters of a structure. These all ultimately have a contribution to the infiltration of air flowing through cracks, joints, and other openings of ceilings, floors, and walls. When the air exchange isn’t adequate, it lowers the indoor air quality. 

How does indoor air quality affect our health?

The EPA has warned that the indoor air pollution issue is in one of the top 5 environmental risks to us today. With the well debated subject of climate change, along with increased humidity and precipitation, the indoor air pollution is exacerbated and promotes indoor mold growth. In conjunction with the bacteria, bio contaminants and dust mites, we shouldn’t be surprised at the growing number of people with allergies. 

Indoor air pollutants are to blame for many that suffer with irritated eyes, nose, and throat. More of are complaining and suffering from dizziness, fatigue, and headaches, and anyone with asthma or other respiratory issues suffer even more. The poor indoor air quality of today has added to chronic health issues like cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory diseases like COPD. 

How do you test air quality in your home?

For the DIY homeowner, here are three indoor air quality tests you can perform: 

1. Carbon Monoxide
   This is an odorless gas that fireplaces, furnaces, grills, water heaters and other gas appliances emit. If the carbon monoxide is leaking and builds up, it is poisonous to humans and animals. A carbon monoxide detector will alert you to a dangerous high level of CO in your home.  
2. Radon
   This radioactive gas is the 2^nd leading cause of lung cancer, testing for radon in the home is wise. A naturally occurrence from uranium breaking down in the soil and then seep inside your home, it becomes a silent poison.  There are at-home radon test kits available at local home improvement stores. You can also get kits at a discount from the National Radon Program Services.
3. Allergens and Other Pollutants
   There is a device called “Speck” that will monitor common pollutants inside a home. It measures the levels of harmful particles so that you can determine what you need to change in your home to reduce those contaminants. A reputable indoor air quality company will have this or a similar device. 

A healthy humidity level. 

 Nothing loves moisture more than dust mites and mold, so keep that moisture down to a level of 50% humidity and those allergens will be kept in check. A dehumidifier will reduce  the indoor air moisture and control the allergens too. A few ways you can dehumidify your home: 

• Crack windows while cooking and use the exhaust fan.
• Crack windows and use exhaust fan while bathing or running the dishwasher.
• Be careful with overwatering your houseplants.
• Make sure the clothes dryer is vented to the outside.
• Fix plumbing leaks inside and outside, especially under the house.
• Check the  HVAC drip pan and empty it on regular basis. Indoor air quality and hvac systems are not best friends! 

No Smoking Zone

Every home should be  a no-smoking zone when there are asthmatic or respiratory patients.  Secondhand smoke is the single most damaging factor to indoor air quality.  With over 4,000 chemicals, a child subjected to 2nd hand spoke has an increase in developing ear infections, respiratory infections, asthma, and has been associated with cancer, and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Call 707-689-5128 today for your indoor air quality testing in Vacaville, CA.

The difference between a whole house air purifier and a humidifier is simple. One cleans the air, and one adds moisture to the air. By their names, it easy to tell the difference: The “air purifier” cleans the air and the “humidifier” adds moisture to the air. 

For a more detailed answer, a whole house air purifier cleans the air in your home by removing or inactivating any pollutants from the air with two basic components. With a fan and a filter, typically a HEPA filtration technology or the new PECO technology, an 

Air purifier can remove dust and pollutants that get trapped in the filter as air from the house passes through it, then sends it back into the house, clean and clear. 

A humidifier boils water takes the steam that creates and add it to the air using ultrasonic technology that vibrates water droplets. There are some  humidifiers that use a fan and wick to evaporate the water. A downside to the ultrasonic type of humidifier is the tiny mineral particles they may introduce into the air, so it is recommended to use only distilled water and not tap water. Either type of humidifier should be cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis. 

Do I need an air purifier for each room?

A professional air quality expert will recommend a whole house air purifier, however, not everyone can afford this means of improving indoor air quality. So we go with the individual, portable air purifier. There are two factors that should be considered in determining if you need one for every room in your home: 

1. The Square Footage: Your home’s square footage relates to the volume of air that is to be cleaned.
2. The Air Purifier Capacity: This relates to the amount of air the unit can clean.

So, no, you may not need an air purifier in each room if you choose an air purifier that has a large square foot capacity. Or you can choose to go with a whole house air purifier, then every room will benefit from having clean, purified air.  

How long does it take for an air purifier to clean a room?

A portable room air purifier will take between thirty minutes and two hours to purify the air in the room, with a difference noticeable after the first 20 minutes. Remember, an air purifier is only as useful as it the air changes per hour), the brand and model, and the size of the room you place the unit. 

An average extraction rate is based on one hour and the amount of air it can clean. A HEPA air filter will run 15 minutes per air change, thus cleaning the air faster than a non-HEPA filter. Keep in mind that during the summer, there number of pollutants increase, so it will take a room air purifier longer to clean the air. 

Does whole house UV air purifier work?

Another confusion are UV air purifiers and whole house air cleaners. Each has a purpose with a UV light in that air purifiers have neutralizes microorganism that can be harmful as they spread and transmit.  A whole house air purifier remove tiny particles from the air supply. The UV light in a whole house air purifier does not remove any particles, therefore, they are not helpful in removing allergens. 

However, using both UV light and whole house air purifier will provide the best defense by cleaning the  air filtering it too. A whole house air purifier will miss some of the tiniest of tiny particles, the UV light kills any harmful microorganisms.

These questions have been around as long as having air conditioned air has been around (or after that first electric bill anyway!). The bottom line to these never ending questions is: Your air-conditioning system is going to be a more energy efficient HVAC system when it  runs at full speed. 

Yes, you read that right. To run your HVAC system at a lower speed, it uses more energy, and it will dehumidify your house better too. So, set your thermostat a degree or two higher and let it run all day. You’ll actually save as much as 5% for every degree you bump up the thermostat, the recommended setting is 78 degrees.

During the summer when the temps are raising, try these things for a month or two and see if it makes any difference on your energy bill. If not, you may need to get quotes on a new energy efficient HVAC system: 

• Programmable Thermostat – Yes, you’ve probably had everyone and their neighbor telling you to install a programmable thermostat, and guess what? They’re right, installing one of these, whether you have a older HVAC system or a new energy efficient HVAC, a programmable thermostat will do wonders for your electric bill. Set the time when you want the thermostat cooling, and it will do it automatically. 
• Ceiling Fans – We know, this sounds like your parents from the 1970s, but you’d be surprised at how much air will move around with a ceiling fan in place. While the programmable thermostat is set higher, the ceiling fan keeps the air moving around so it doesn’t get muggy and stale feeling, and your home will still feel cooler. 
• Plant Bushes – The south side and west side is where the heat hits the hardest. Planting bushes on both sides will minimize the heat getting to your home when the sun is blaring on those sides. 
• Crosswinds – There is nothing better on a warm spring day or cooler summer days than windows open throughout the house. You shouldn’t open them all the way, you don’t even to open every window. Just a few so that you get a crosswind coming through the house. Experiment try different windows and see which give you the most crosswind benefit. 

How can I lower my AC bill?

It can get to the point of outrageous when it comes to the electric bill in the summer. You want to be comfortable but at the sacrifice of the family budget. Luckily, with these tips, you can save a few dollars on the electric bill and help get more energy efficient HVAC system while extending its lifespan too: 

Seal the Doors and Windows

You could be losing a lot of that cherished cool air conditioned right through the doors and windows, even if they are closed. If you can feel any draft on the outside around the edges  of the doors and windows, that is where your expensive cooled air is going. Make sure they are all closed and caulk any leaking areas. Installing mesh window screens, solar screens, and window film can knock out as much as 70% of the UV rays, keeping them out of you house. Even with the best energy efficient HVAC system, the cooled air will escape. 

Thermostat Placement

Programmable or old school, a thermostat installed on an exterior wall or by  a window will never have an accurate reading. That inaccurate reading will make your energy efficient HVAC system turn on prematurely and run more.  Schedule an HVAC contractor to come move your thermostat, which may cost a few dollars, but you’ll have that money back with a lower electric bill. 

Temperature Setting

Moving the thermostat setting up 2 to 3 degrees before you leave for a trip and you’ll save between 3% and 5% on your electric bill for every degree you move it up. Of course the programmable thermostat is the better way to do this, you simply program the days and hours you’re not home and it will automatically raise the thermostat for you. A money saver even with an energy efficient HVAC system.  

Avoid Heat

Summertime is vacation travel time and when you’re at home, it is cooking outside time! Use your grill as much as possible for cooking meals and you won’t heat the house up. Try hanging clothes and sheets to hang or do your laundry early in the morning before it heats up outside. Turn the dishwasher dry option off and dry the dishes by hand instead. 

Utilize What You Have

Keep the blinds and curtain closed on the sunny side of the house, use fans, especially ceiling fans, to stir the air up around your house. Get your basement finished out and spend the hottest part of the day down there. 

Plant Trees 

This won’t help your monthly electric bills this summer, but as those trees get bigger, they will eventually by reducing the sunlight that comes through the window. That will lessen the amount you need the air conditioning on and until your trees mature, use blackout curtains. 

Maintenance and Repairs

Even with the most advanced energy efficient HVAC system, if you don’t take care of it, it won’t  be the money save you need. Changing or cleaning the air filter every 30 day is a must to keep it running efficiently and properly, and it is a money saver too!   If your HVAC contractor recommends repairs, follow their advice. When something isn’t running right, it isn’t saving money. 

How many hours should AC run per day?

An energy efficient HVAC system is designed to operate at maximum capacity when the temps are the hottest outside, like 100 degrees. At that hot, the air conditioning should be running basically, continuously to keep the indoor temperature at a comfortable setting.

What about an air conditioner that isn’t keeping the right temperature? Or it is running non-stop? Your HVAC system may need to be checked out by a professional contractor or it could be too small for the size you’re cooling. In general, an energy efficient HVAC air conditioner should run approximately 15 minutes on a mild day and almost non-stop on a hot day. 

What is a good temperature for AC at night?

Well, you don’t want to be too cold, and body temperatures are different for everyone. The general consensus is between 60 degree and 67 degrees. It is recommended when the nights are cool, sleep with a window open and then close it when you wake up.  That will trap the natural cool air and help the air conditioner work less.  One of the best energy efficient HVAC system is the outdoors. 

HVAC units tend to be quieter than air condition window units, and if you’re planning on cooling the entire house at one time, the more energy-efficient HVAC is the better choice. If you have rooms that won’t need cooling every day or even all day, then a window air conditioning unit would be a good choice. Need energy efficient HVAC installation in your home in Vacaville, CA? Call 707-689-5128 today.

How Do You Seal Air Vents?

Are you wondering how to seal air vents? An HVAC repairman is the best person to consult in such cases. In order to discern more, please review the following procedure to discover more.

• The area must be clean and thoroughly dried.
• Next, apply caulk or expanding foam between the ducting and the sheetrock.
• This is done so that the conditioned air will not escape and un-treated air won’t enter the thermal envelope.
• Weatherstripping should be applied to the underside of the vent cover.

To discover more, please don’t be afraid to reach out to your local HVAC company.

How Do I Seal the Inside of My Ductwork?

Are you wondering how to seal the inside of your ductwork? If so, you will want to speak with a reputable HVAC repairman. In the meantime, online tutorials dictate a few important principles. These principles include reviewing the ductwork and the intake valve. You’ll need to be aware of all of the prevailing issues with the ductwork because each house is slightly different. You will also need to have the right materials for the process. Making sure that the air can circulate properly is the most critical part of the procedure.

How Do I Know if My Ducts are Leaking?

If you have a suspicion that your ducts are leaking, then it will be pertinent to discover whether or not your suspicion has a basis in reality. In order to find out, turn on your heating and cooling system and return to the area of the property where the ductwork is accessible. Next, you will need to check the connections between each section of ductwork. Place your hand over the metal. If during this process, you feel the air against your hand, that’s not a good sign. It means the connection is loose and that there is an air leak.

What is Duct Sealing?

A proper definition truly helps when it comes to understanding a subject. In this case, let’s discuss what duct sealing is. A duct seal is a procedure dedicated to sealing the outside of your home around electrical wires and other tiny gaps. It’s actually not made to be used on leaky ductwork. Depending on the size of the leak, you will need to carefully combine your liquid mastic with another product such as fiberglass tape.

How to Seal Air Ducts in Attic

In order to seal the air ducts in the attic, you will want to locate the source of the thermal leaks by reviewing the ductwork while the HVAC system is in operation. You can absolutely use zip ties to secure any loose ducts in the attic to the floor. Next, you will want to apply a large amount of sealant mastic over the thermal leak. After that, you can make certain that the duct is securely in place. Wait an appropriate amount of time for it to dry.

What Do You Use to Seal Ductwork

Sealing ductwork is a professional job, and it takes professional products. These products include mastic sealants, paintbrushes, aluminum foil tape, and much more. 

How to Seal Air Ducts

Sealing air ducts requires dexterity and expertise. After the surface of the air duct has been properly and thoroughly cleaned, you will need to place a strip of aluminum foil tape over the leak. Alternatively, you can use mastic sealant and a paintbrush. The mastic sealant is best for leak areas that would be difficult to close with foil tape. As a general rule, mastic sealant will be far more effective at sealing than any duct tape you could use.

If you have been wondering how to seal air ducts in Vacaville, CA, we’ve got you covered. Please reach out to us at 707-689-5128 today.

How do I reset my heater?

If you are having problems getting your heat to come on, before calling A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC, with newer models you may just need to reset the system. Try this to reset your heater:

• Turn the furnace off at the circuit breaker.
• Leave the system off for about 10 seconds.
• Switch the breaker back on and then look to see if the furnace has power.

For an older furnace, you can try to reset it by following these steps:

• Check to see if the pilot light is off. If it’s on, you have a bigger problem.
• If the pilot light is off, turn the thermostat down as a safety measure.
• Light the pilot light and set the thermostat back to your desired temperature. If the heat comes on, your heater has been reset.

How do you know a thermostat is bad?

Your thermostat is one of the first places to look when you’re troubleshooting your central heater. If your thermostat is bad, several problems could occur:

• If you adjust the temperature and no change occurs or the display isn’t responsive or unlit, the thermostat either needs batteries or is broken.
• A wiring defect in the thermostat could keep your heating or air from coming on.
• You might have the opposite problem: A faulty thermostat might cause the heat or air to run continually.
• If the room temperature and the temperature on the thermostat aren’t matching, you have a problem with the thermostat.

Any of these problems might require central heater repair by qualified professionals.

Why is my house so cold even with the heating on?

A central heater repair may be in order if your home is cold although your heater is on. Uneven temperatures in rooms could mean a problem with the thermostat or possibly a ventilation issue. Leaking ductwork will affect room temperature as it affects airflow and heat delivery. Incorrectly configured ductwork can also cause problems with airflow. You also want to check all vents to make sure they are open and not obstructed. Large pieces of furniture like couches can block airflow and cause the room to stay cold. Check your filter as well. If it’s dirty, airflow could be restricted.

Is no heating an emergency?

You might have a central heater repair emergency if you don’t have any heat. This will all depend on the circumstances. You might have a simple problem with your thermostat: check to make certain it’s turned to heat, especially if this is the first time in the year you’ve used it. If you’re not getting any heat, you can switch the furnace circuit breaker off. If you have a gas furnace, check to make sure the pilot light is on. If troubleshooting efforts fail, you’ll want to get repairs done as quickly as possible, especially when you have young children or seniors in your household whose health can be quickly harmed when there is no heat.

Heater repair parts

All the components in your central heater, from the heat exchanger to the inducer motor have to work in unison for your heater to work perfectly and efficiently. Whenever one part breaks down, it’s likely going to prevent the other parts from working. While you can get parts for central heater repair, unless you’re skilled with HVAC equipment, it’s usually best to get repairs done by professionals like those at A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC. Professionals will make certain the repair is done right so your heating will be restored with no further problems.

Why is My Heat and Air Not Working?

If your central heating and air have stopped working, it will be important for you to review all the reasons why it is not functional. Please review the following steps to take to troubleshoot your heating and air unit.

• The thermostat. If you haven’t checked the thermostat yet, it is important for you to do so. Check the setting and the power to be sure that it is still operational and that it is set at the right temperature.
• The circuit breaker. If the thermostat has been properly set, there could be something that short-circuited. Check the circuit breaker for the central heating unit and make sure that the breaker is still working. Turn it on and off in case it has tripped.

If neither of these steps has worked, the next logical step is for you to contact a reputable HVAC company and schedule an appointment for some repairs or an inspection.

Why is My Furnace Running But No Heat?

If your furnace is running but you aren’t on the receiving end of some heat, you will likely want to find some answers immediately. One of the major reasons why your furnace could be malfunctioning is due to the fact that you may have a dirty filter. Dust and dirt have a nasty habit of restricting airflow. If the air filter gets too clogged then the heat exchanger will overheat and shut off. As a result, your home won’t warm up to the temperature set on your thermostat. 

How Do I Balance the Heat in My House?

If you need to balance the heat in your house, it will be important for you to facilitate a way to move forward. Fortunately, there are a number of ways for you to do so. One of the things that you can do is close or open your register. The next thing that you can do is to try a two-degree offset. Check filters for cleanliness. You can also install window coverings to prevent heat loss. You will need to avoid placing electronic equipment near the thermostat because that could be impacting your home. 

How Do You Balance the Heat in a Two Story House?

Due to the fact that heat rises, it will be important for you to balance the heat in your home so that your first story doesn’t get too cold. At a certain point, it will be good for you to check the ductwork, insulation, and seals. A well-insulated house will have a better chance of retaining the indoor temperature regardless of the weather outdoors. As previously stipulated, there is nothing more important than making sure that your filter is clean. Make sure to change it out every several months so that your HVAC unit is in proper working order.

Central Heat and Air Repair Service

The odds are that there are many excellent central heat and air repair companies near your location. You will want to review the credentials of each company so that you get the best technician for your home or property.

Central Heat and Air Repair

A good HVAC repair is practically worth its weight in gold. That is why it is important to get repairs and maintenance scheduled on an annual basis so that your HVAC unit will be in optimum condition.

Central Heat and Air Repair Service Near Me

If you are attempting to locate a company that is near your location, you can utilize Google maps to discover a list of companies that are available in your area. Your internet search engine can do the hard work of locating companies that perform central heat and air repair service.

If you need central heat and air repair in Vacaville, CA, it’s important for you to have the experts on hand. Please reach out to us today at our phone number, 707-689-5128.

What are the four major components of an air conditioning system?

It is a compound chemical refrigerant found inside air conditioning systems that change from liquid to vapor and return to liquid. For this chemical to cool your home through the HVAC system, it needs the following four HVAC parts from this HVAC parts list: 

• A Compressor
  • The heart of the system, the one part that is a must for the HVAC parts to work is the compressor. Like the human heart is pumping blood, the compressor is pumping this refrigerant compound at a precise rate and pressure through several other HVAC parts and systems. At this point, the refrigerant is in vapor form it is sucked into the compressor. The refrigerant is then compressed as it is pumped through, raising the temperature at an extremely hot temperature. 
• A Condenser
  • The refrigerant, while at a high temperature from the compressor, proceeds to the condenser coil where a fan blows air over it to cool it down. It is then liquefied. The refrigerant vapor, at high temperature, enters the unit as the heat energy in the vapor is removed by blowing air across the condenser coil. While this is happening, the vapor changes to a liquid, and that heat that will blow from the condensing unit heat your home. 
• A Metering Device
  • The liquid refrigerant flow is controlled by a metering device as it goes into the evaporator. This is area is where the high pressure and low pressure are divided, and the high-pressure liquid is passed through this component to the evaporator where the pressure drops.
• An Evaporator
  • The refrigerant leaves the metering device and immediately enters the evaporator where a fan blows across the refrigerant. At a lower pressure, the refrigerant enters the coil and begins to boil the return to a vapor state, and the heat is removed from the air as it passes over the coil and the refrigerant absorbs it. Now, instead of blowing heat, it is blowing cold air that cools your home when the HVAC system is set on air. 

How do I know if my air conditioner compressor is broken?

We have explained that of all the HVAC with parts that are required for your air conditioner to work, the AC compressor is most important. This is the HVAC part that pressurizes the refrigerant and keeps it flowing so that the other HVAC parts can function adequately, cycling on and off in a continuous manner. 

Some slight issues can tell you the compressor is struggling and may need replacing soon. 

• CHATTERING or TICKING sound
  • This sound is similar to a gas burner when you turn it on and is indicating that the AC compressor is stressed and struggling. When you hear this sound, turn the unit completely off and contact your HVAC technician. 
• CLICKING or Rumbling sound
  • When you turn on the air conditioning and hear a clicking or rumbling sound, the motor mounts of the compressor have loosened and allowed the motor to bounce inside its casing, which is one of the HVAC parts that is repairable by a professional HVAC technician.  
• LEAKS or PUDDLES 
  • If are leaks around the air conditioning system or you hear a hissing sound coming from the system, it could be a refrigerant leak that needs immediate attention by a professional. Leaking refrigerant is a health risk, causing coughs, eye irritation, headaches, and nausea. When left unaddressed, the other HVAC parts in the entire air conditioning system will completely freeze up. It isn’t getting the chemicals needed to create the cold air. 
• SHORT CYCLING OR IRREGULAR TEMPERATURES
  • If your air conditioning compressor turns off before the house is cooled, that s short cycling and means the compressor is turning off too early. There are several reasons an air conditioner will do this, with one being clogged or dirty air filters, a malfunctioning thermostat, or the HVAC system you have isn’t large enough for your house. A professional inspection will determine which of these it could be, and they will check the within the system to make sure they are in good working order. 

What is the difference between HVAC HVAC parts and AC?

The air conditioning industry refers to HVAC, the acronym for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. AC is the acronym for air conditioning and may refer to window units or a central system that is air condition only. 

• AC continually runs but doesn’t cool: It’s the refrigerant that absorbs heat in the air. When there’s not enough refrigerant, heat isn’t absorbed and the air isn’t cooled, although the AC may keep running.
• Vents blow warm air: As above, there’s not enough warm air being absorbed for cooling to occur.
• Increase in electric bills: If your AC is continually running, it’s going to cause your bills to go up.
• Build-up of ice on refrigerant line: When the evaporator coil gets too cold, the refrigerant flows back to the refrigerant line. Moisture on the line then freezes. Repairs need to be made to keep the refrigerant from getting to the compressor and damaging it. 
• Hissing or bubbling from the refrigerant line: A leak in the line may be indicated if you hear hissing or bubbling coming from the line.

If you are noticing any of these signs, you probably have a leak in your refrigerant line. When you need a repair and refrigerant recharge service in Vacaville, CA, you can always count on the team at A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC. Get help from us today by calling 707-689-5128 to schedule a service call.

How long does refrigerant last in AC?

Unless there is a leak, your refrigerant should last anywhere between 12 to 15 years, which is about the typical lifespan of your air conditioner unit. If there is a leak, you will need repairs and a refrigerant recharge. If your AC is more than 12 years old, you might also want to check it to see if it’s time to replace it.

How do I check my AC refrigerant?

If your air conditioner doesn’t seem like it’s cooling as well as it should, you shouldn’t assume it’s because the refrigerant is low. Usually the only time you’ll need a refrigerant recharge is if the line has a leak in it. To check for leaks, you can look for frost around the refrigerant line and other components of the air conditioner. You can also check for sounds of hissing or bubbling along the refrigerant line. These noises indicate the refrigerant is escaping from the line. Another method of checking for leaks is to put a solution of soap and water on the line. If you see bubbles, you have a leak. If you think you’ve detected a leak, get in touch with a professional like A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC for repairs.

Can you recharge a home air conditioner?

If you are wondering how to recharge refrigerant yourself, it’s actually something, according to EPA regulations, only a certified technician is allowed to do. Refrigerant has to be handled carefully by professionals, and once a refrigerant recharge is performed, the HVAC technician also must test its pressure and ensure that it is flowing through the system properly.

Refrigerant recharge kit

If you see refrigerant recharge kits advertised or on shelves at stores, these kits are used to recharge your vehicle’s refrigerant, and not for your home air conditioner. Recharging the AC in your car is something you can do yourself, though you still need to exercise precaution when handling any refrigerant. As with your home’s AC, you normally only need to recharge your vehicle’s AC if there is a leak. 

When trying to recharge an auto’s AC you might find that the refrigerant will not recharge. Usually, this means there’s no refrigerant at all remaining in the air conditioner, and not enough pressure to get the recharge to work. The system needs to be evacuated, according to some automotive experts. Check with an automotive technician if you need help recharging a vehicle’s refrigerant.

What will replace Freon in 2020?

While most air conditioners currently run on R-22 refrigerant, commonly referred to by the brand name Freon, this type of refrigerant is being phased out of use this year for environmental concerns. The refrigerant will no longer be produced or imported, however, it can still be used in systems that use it. There are several replacement refrigerants, although some prefer R-407c. But, don’t rush out to get a refrigerant recharge just because R-22 won’t be available. You need to make certain your system is adjusted to manage the other refrigerants. A professional HVAC technician will be able to make adjustments or recommendations for replacements.

Can you recharge your home AC yourself?

In terms of where the part that accepts the AC recharge is, you will find it generally at the appropriate openings. If it is unclear, there are diagrams that can explain where they can be found. However, it is highly recommended against that unlicensed and untrained individuals commit to an AC recharge. When considering or needing a recharge for your air conditioning system, it is best to rely on professionals like those at A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC. The primary reason being that you must absolutely know what you are doing when committing to an AC recharge. Too much coolant can damage other parts of the air conditioner, such as the compressor, and also lead to higher pressure inside the system overall. At the same time, too little coolant from an AC recharge will make the coils too cold and may cause backflow into the outside unit which will lead to damages. Either way, too much or too little coolant in an AC recharge will lead to expensive damages. On top of that and ignoring what else may happen, EPA regulations state that only certified professionals can recharge HVAC systems.

Why is my AC running but not cooling?

When your air conditioning unit does not cool your place of residence, it could be one or many of countless issues that can occur in the system. There could be blockages in the ventilation ducts, the compressor might have gained some damages, it could be due to a simple part that needs replacing. All those, or you’ve run out of cooling as mentioned before and need an AC recharge. The air conditioning unit cannot function and do its job without coolant to level out the preferred temperature. 

In considering window and smaller air conditioning units, a problem that occurs is that the right setting is not selected. Both need to be absolutely set and when that does not work they do suffer from issues that the central air conditioner also suffers from. While both suffer from low coolant levels, which have been covered above, they also use filters that need to be replaced every so often.

Mastic is gooey, doesn’t harden, and is applied pretty easily. You can spread it over seams using a paintbrush, putty knife, or even your fingers. Even significant tears can be sealed with a combination of the mastic and fiberglass mesh tape. Mastic is preferred as a sealant, rather than duct tape because tape can fail pretty quickly. If you have damaged, leaking air ducts for professional air duct sealing and repair in Vacaville, CA, reach out to the team at A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC by calling 707-689-5128.

Can ductwork be repaired?

Not only is air duct repair possible, but it also can save you a great deal of money when it comes to energy savings. Tears, leaks, or poorly installed ductwork can waste tons of energy. You’ll improve airflow and indoor air quality by repairing or replacing your air ducts. Moreover, getting your ductwork repaired reduces the risk of a safety hazard known as “backdrafting.” This is where combustible gases are released into the home rather than going outside.  

How do I check ductwork?

If you suspect you have problems with your ductwork like leaks, you’ll want to find all the problems for air duct repair. Finding leaks isn’t easy and can take time. Here are some steps you can take to find leaks in your ductwork:

• Look for visible tears first and mark them with a grease pencil.
• Turn your air on full blast to get more air circulating, making it easier to spot leaks.
• Place your hand over duct joints and feel for air coming out.
• Light something like incense or a smoke pencil and run it under the ductwork. If there is a leak the smoke will swirl in an unusual pattern when a leak is present.
• Look for and remove any duct tape. Duct tape is a temporary fix used to seal leaks.
• Seal your leaks with an adhesive like mastic.  

How do you fix torn ductwork?

When you find tears in flex ductwork, air duct leak repair can be fairly easy. Duct tape can be used as a temporary fix. For rips, both sides of the rip need to be sealed. Duct mastic and mesh are used to make more permanent repairs. The mesh is applied first over the tear and then the mesh is covered with mastic. 

How do you replace air ducts?

If your air ducts have several leaks or tears, air duct repair may not be the best option. Replacing your air ducts might be what’s needed. How to replace them will depend on what kind of ductwork you have installed. Many homes have flex duct, which is often the easiest to install. The first step to replace the ductwork is to remove the old ductwork. The ductwork is then sealed to the connection. Lengths of ductwork can easily be fitted into each other and connected to the main connections. Take care not to drag the ductwork over roof trusses or joints, as this could easily cause tears. If you want to make sure the ductwork is installed correctly you may want a professional like A 100% Guarantee Heating and AC to help.

Underground air duct repair

One area of air duct repair where it’s best to get help from professionals is with any ductwork that is installed underground. In some instances, ductwork will be installed under your property’s foundation. This ductwork can pose plenty of problems, from being in tight spaces that make it difficult to having to deal with issues like mold, insects, flooding, and even radon gas. Because the space is so tight, professionals often have to make initial explorations with handheld digital cameras to find any problems. Making repairs usually means digging into the foundation, although in some instances aerosol sealants can be sprayed inside the ductwork to make the repair.

Air duct repair tape

As the name implies, duct tape is used to make an air duct repair. While duct tape has its uses, repairs made with it tend to be temporary. It won’t take long for the tape to wear out or fail. When sealing flex duct, it’s preferable to use mastic along with fiberglass mesh tape. This makes for a stronger, much more permanent seal.