How to Prep an AC System for Hurricanes

How to Prep an AC System for Hurricanes

Sep 20, 2023 | Air Conditioning, General

As another hurricane season makes its way to our horizons, it is important that you get your home ready for the severe damage of the high-speed winds that hit the area.

Because we are the finest HVAC experts in the region, we are most concerned with helping you prepare your air conditioning system against all the damage of tropical storms.

Hansen Super techs will provide you with our top tips to ensure that your HVAC systems and equipment are protected every time a hurricane passes through your city.

Tips for Prepping Your Air Conditioner for Hurricanes

Preparing your air conditioning unit for strong hurricane storms is imperative and has many benefits that include the following:

  • Protect all HVAC system components from the damage of flying debris and other windblown objects
  • Avoid the need to hire a repair or installation service to fix or replace your AC unit after the storm
  • Maintain indoor air quality during and after the storm hits
  • Getting your home ready for a storm helps you recover faster after the hurricane passes

Turn off the Power to the HVAC System

Before the hurricane hits its full force, we recommend that you turn off your air conditioner completely at the main electrical control panel. This will prevent electrical smoke and other forms of electrical damage like power surges, which can be potentially hazardous.

Secure the Outdoor Unit

The power of a hurricane storm is strong enough to lift the condensing unit of your air conditioning system. Take the time to anchor or secure your outdoor air conditioning unit to the ground, preventing it from being blown away by the impact of the high-speed winds.

Trim Surrounding Trees and Plants

The damage tropical storms cause first hits the surrounding trees and plants because they tend to be very easy for the hurricane to lift. To help both your home and AC unit to easily survive through the storm, take the time to trim your trees and plants around the air conditioner and the house in general. Sometimes the high wind rips off parts of branches of trees, turning them into flying debris that crashes into an AC unit or window. Both options cause great damage that will require repair later.

Protect the Outdoor Unit

We recommend taking it a step further and covering your outdoor AC unit with a tarp cover designed to protect it from flying objects, hail, and high moisture brought on by rain. This will prevent electrical damage and other issues as you weather another hurricane storm.

Elevate the Outdoor Unit if in a Flood-Prone Area

Those who live in areas that are known for flooding should take the extra step of elevating the outdoor units of their air conditioners. Putting the unit on a platform or stand will help greatly in protecting it from water damage.

Inspect and Secure the Indoor Unit

If you use a window air conditioning unit or a multi-split system, you will need to inspect it as well and secure it in place as best you can. Make sure it is mounted and properly connected, ensuring that all loose parts are connected and secured.

Protect Electrical Components of the Air Conditioner

To avoid having to deal with erratic power failures after the storm hits and makes its mark on your property, we recommend covering any visible electrical components connected to your air conditioning system and the house. This will prevent the need for AC repair and other complex electrical jobs after the hurricane passes.

Document and Photograph the AC Unit’s Condition

As a last step, take a minute to document and photograph your air conditioner in its current state before the storm and after the storm. If you sustain any damage to the unit, your homeowner’s insurance company will be easier to work with due to the extra piece of documentation.

When to Call Professional HVAC Experts

After the lightning strikes, high winds blow through the area, and the hurricane hits with all its fury, you will be curious about whether you need to call emergency services or AC repair for help with your air conditioning unit. Here are some common signs that indicate a call to the HVAC experts:

  • Loud buzzing noises coming from the unit inside the house or outside your property
  • There are high moisture levels or flooding around the AC unit
  • The AC system was hit by windblown objects and has visible damage
  • The electrical lines around the AC are damaged
  • You see the formation of mold around the vents and other parts of the air conditioner
  • You suspect power surges in the house
  • If you know that your AC unit will most likely require a replacement or repair

Hansen Air Pros are Ready to Support You Through Hurricane Season!

As another hurricane season makes its way through our community, you can always rely on Hansen Air Pros to help you prepare your air conditioning unit for its powerful impact. Call us today to set up a maintenance visit where our HVAC experts will help you protect and secure your unit to the ground. We will with you to ensure that your HVAC systems are fully functioning long after the storm hits.

Tips to Winterize Your HVAC System in MS & AL

Tips to Winterize Your HVAC System in MS & AL

Sep 8, 2023 | Air Conditioning, Electrical, General, Heating, Plumbing

Why Prioritize Winterizing Your Air Conditioner System?

As the warm summer days fade away and are replaced by the chilly air of early fall, residents of Southern states have to take extra steps to prepare their central air conditioners and heating systems for the cold air of the winter season. 

This is the process of cooling and winterizing your HVAC unit, allowing it to function without sustaining any damage as the winter arrives in the region.

Here are the reasons why your AC unit must be prepared for the fall and winter season:

  • Protect your HVAC unit from damage caused by freezing temperatures
  • Enhance the energy efficiency of the air conditioning system
  • Optimize your indoor air quality during the winter months
  • Keep your home consistently warm in the most efficient way and protect it from damage brought on by snow and ice
  • Extend the lifespan of your air conditioner unit and all of its mechanical parts

Easy Tips for Prepping an HVAC Unit for Winter:

Even though it may be a sunny day outside, the cold temperatures throughout the cooling and winter months can cause damage to your HVAC system. From applying foam pipe covers to cleaning the entire unit of debris, the average manufacturer recommends that homeowners take specific steps that will help them avoid needing repair services down the line.

If you flip through your unit’s manual, you will find the HVAC manufacturer’s suggestions for how these steps must be carried out. Below, is a brief overview of what you need to do so that your air conditioner does not freeze overnight during the winter.

1. Inspect the HVAC System

Start by checking your air conditioning unit for any visible signs of damage, leaks, or normal wear to ensure that is functioning correctly. Also, check the outdoor unit of your AC, ensuring it is free of any debris, plants, insects, and small animals that sneak into the unit.

2. Clean and Replace Air Filters

Air flow in any central air conditioner is dependent upon clean air filters. Take the time to check the air filters in your HVAC unit, cleaning or replacing them as necessary. We recommend to many homeowners that they add this step to their list of chores at least once every 4-6 weeks.

3. Check and Seal Air Ducts

The duct work in your entire home is also key in ensuring that your air conditioner produces proper air flow and heating temperatures. Those air ducts must be clean and free of cracks. Please note that this portion of the duct side of the HVAC unit must be inspected professionally because duct tape isn’t enough to cover any cracks.

4. Inspect and Clean the Vents and Registers of the AC Unit

You must ensure that your vents and registers are free of obstructions and blockages caused by dust and debris accumulated over the spring and summer months. This will ensure that there is proper airflow upstairs, downstairs, and throughout the entire home in general.

5. Inspect Insulation

It is also important to check your insulation’s condition, ensuring that it is intact and completely dry. Insulation is what keeps your home warm and cozy throughout those cold temperatures, snow, and bad weather.

6. Check Thermostat Settings

Adjust the thermostat settings for heating temperatures to ensure that your entire home stays warm day after day throughout the fall and winter months. Setting your thermostat settings will keep your AC unit automatically controlled, allowing you to switch to colder weather in the most efficient way to keep you warm.

7. Test the Heating System

The HVAC manufacturer’s suggestions will also recommend that you test your heating system to ensure that it warms your entire home and delivers the temperatures required to keep you comfortable. If you find that it isn’t providing those temperatures even after you adjust the thermostat, you should call an air conditioner repair technician for assistance.

8. Protect the Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit

Many homeowners who live in Alabama must take the time to use a weatherproof cover to protect their outdoor unit from freezing temperatures. This action will keep the air flow throughout the home, allowing you to enjoy a warm winter day inside the house even if it is freezing outside.

9. Prepare for Cold Air and Freezing Temperatures

It may also be beneficial to add a bit of antifreeze in your HVAC unit, which will prevent the pipes in it from freezing overnight or on especially cold winter days. It will also keep the refrigerant fluid and warm air flowing in the same direction and throughout the entire home.

Schedule a Maintenance Visit for Your HVAC Unit Today!

The best thing you can do for your air conditioning and heating system is to schedule a routine maintenance check with your local AC unit experts. There is nobody better in town than the HVAC system technicians at Hansen Super Techs.

Contact Hansen Super Techs today for an expert maintenance service that will help you transition into fall and winter. As the warm summer days fade away, your HVAC unit will function like any premium system with the help of our team of air conditioner technicians.

How Does A Home HVAC System Work?

How Does A Home HVAC System Work?

Aug 22, 2023 | Air Conditioning, General

There is nothing more important on a hot summer day or a frigid winter afternoon than a properly working HVAC system. 

Whether you need that cool air to provide you with much-needed relief from the scorching temperatures outside or warm air to get you all cozy and comfy inside, your heating and cooling system will be instrumental in your comfort throughout all the seasons.

We want to honor the importance of your air conditioning unit by discussing the unique intricacies of the heating and cooling equipment and how they come together to enhance the comfort of your home.

How Does an HVAC System Work?

There are several types of HVAC systems including central air conditioning, split systems, and window units. Regardless of the type of air conditioning you use, they have a similar goal of extracting hot air from the house during those hot days cooling it, and heating the air through the winter months.

All HVAC systems are also equipped with ventilation systems that maintain fresh air inside the home, ensuring optimal indoor air quality throughout the house. Most HVAC systems are made with the following vital components:

  • Heating systems
  • Ventilation unit
  • Air conditioning
  • Thermostat
  • Control Panel
  • Dampers and Valves
  • Air Handler
  • Condensate Drain and Pain

We will discuss the role of each of these components in the article below to help you understand the science behind an air conditioning unit.

Air Conditioning Systems

If you live in an area like Biloxi, Mobile, or Daphne, AL, then you are probably aware of the hot and humid summers you frequently have to live through. The air conditioning is often that saving grace that provides the cool air you need.

Parts of the Air Conditioning Portion of the Unit

The cooling system is made of the following parts:

  • Compressor
  • Condenser Coil and Fan
  • Expansion Valve
  • Evaporator Coils
  • Blower Fan
  • Refrigerant fluid
  • Thermostat
  • Air Filter
  • Duct system (for central air conditioning systems)
  • Drain Pain and Drain Line
  • Sensors and Control System
  • Indoor and outdoor units

The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant fluid and converts it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas. This gas then flows into the condenser coil, where heat is released to the surrounding air, causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid.

The liquid refrigerant moves to the expansion valve, which controls its flow and pressure allowing it to expand as it enters the evaporator coils. In the evaporator coils, the refrigerant will absorb heat from the indoor air and cool it down. Then the blower fan pushes the cool air through the duct system and releases it into the home.

Thanks to this wonderful function of the air conditioner, your Alabama & Mississippi summers are far more manageable when the home receives that much-needed cooled air.

The Role of Heating Systems

As the hot summers fade away, the fall and winters of the south bring along cold air and chilly temperatures that will have you running for shelter. 

To ensure that your heating system is energy efficient and does what it needs to deliver the warm air your home requires.

Parts of the Heating Systems

The heating system of your home consists of several parts that come together to produce your desired temperature to keep you warm:

  • A furnace, heat pump, or boiler
  • Fans, air ducts, and air filters
  • Compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator coils
  • Thermostat with sensors and controls
  • Refrigerant fluid
  • Indoor air handlers

As you can see, the heating systems use much of the same HVAC equipment as an air conditioning unit. Using the main component like the furnace or heat pump, will absorb heat from the home and heat it either by a heat exchanger using gas, air, or water depending on the type of heating system. Then the blower fan circulates the warm air through the air ducts and releases it into the home. A ductless system works similarly but would heat just the room where the HVAC system is placed.

Ventilation and Air Conditioning

The ventilation and air conditioning systems work together in an HVAC system to maintain the indoor air quality of a home. The ventilation component is responsible for the following functions:

  • Air circulation
  • Air exchange
  • Moisture control
  • Temperature regulation
  • Contaminant removal
  • Odor dilution and removal
  • Carbon dioxide dilution
  • Health and safety compliance

Key Ventilation and Air Conditioning Components

The above functions of a ventilation system are crucial to the health and safety of the HVAC system and the whole house in general. Below are the key parts of the ventilation system that make optimal indoor air quality possible:

  • Fans
  • Air filters
  • Air ducts
  • Ventilation fans
  • Controls and dampers
  • Heat recovery ventilator or energy recovery ventilator
  • Air intakes
  • Exhaust vents
  • Air circulators
  • Sensors and controls

Maintenance Tips for the Complete HVAC System

Thanks to all the electric and mechanical components of a central heating system, central air conditioner, or ductless system, your home is able to remain comfortable all year long. However, to keep your air conditioner in its prime condition, it is important to keep up with some key maintenance steps such as the ones below:

  • Clear your air filters regularly
  • Give the air conditioning system a break after 8-10 hours of continuous use
  • Keep the area around the outdoor unit clean and free of any debris, plants, and items
  • Keep outdoor air from flowing into the home while the HVAC systems are working
  • Keep the vents, registers, and the indoor air handler clean and free of obstructions
  • Schedule regular maintenance checks with an HVAC system technician

Not all HVAC systems work forever. In fact, an average ductless system or central air conditioner will last 10-15 years, depending on the make, model, and condition of the unit. To get the most out of your AC unit, be sure to follow these suggestions as often as possible.

Call Us for HVAC Systems Repair, Installation, and Maintenance Services

Clearly, the heating and cooling systems in our homes perform a vital function that makes life in Biloxi and Gulfport all that more pleasant. If you’re worried that perhaps the energy efficiency of your HVAC unit isn’t at its best, or you’re suspecting other repair issues, call us today for repair, maintenance, or installation service. With our central air conditioner and heating techs, you will experience a quick resolution to all of your air conditioner concerns.

 

Contact Hansen Super Techs now for an efficient and quality service for your HVAC system!

Why Timing Matters in AC Repairs

Why Timing Matters in AC Repairs

Jun 16, 2023 | Air Conditioning

Some air conditioning repairs are pretty obvious while others creep up on a home in a gradual progression, until the unit breaks down completely. This is normally the result of homeowners neglecting to repair the unit on a timely basis, which results in an expensive and extensive repair. As an Orange Beach AC company, we continue to see this problem happen very frequently as the summer months go by. In this blog, we want to emphasize the importance 

Timely Repairs Ensure the Following Benefits

Before an air conditioning unit breaks down completely, it shows signs of repair that people either do not recognize or ignore. Here are these common signs:

  • Increased energy bills
  • High humidity levels
  • Leaks or moisture 
  • Frequent cycling
  • Foul odors
  • Strange noises
  • Weak airflow
  • Lack of cooling

When you notice any of these signs, it is important that you contact an Orange Beach AC company for repairs as soon as possible to ensure these benefits:

Optimal Comfort 

The most obvious inconvenience of a broken AC is discomfort. As soon as something is broken within the unit, it will stop producing those desired temperatures your home requires. You may also end up with a lot of stuffiness or mugginess in the air as a result of a required repair in the unit. Nobody likes to be uncomfortable and a timely repair will ensure that you are living in cool temperatures and breathing clean air. 

Enhanced and Maintained Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is dependent on the condition of your AC unit. If just one component is broken, you may end up with dust, musty, or stuffy air. If you notice any of these issues, you will need to contact a technician who will be able to investigate the issue and provide the needed repairs. Poor indoor air quality causes poor health outcomes such as migraines, allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. 

Increased Energy Efficiency

Just like with air quality, a single broken AC part can greatly affect the energy efficiency levels of your unit. Neglected repairs lead to high energy bills because the AC ends up consuming more energy than usual. As a result, you will have higher monthly costs to deal with long term. The faster you repair the AC, the less of these high energy bills you receive. 

Here are some other factors that drive the AC’s energy efficiency levels:

  • Airflow and ventilation 
  • Sun exposure and shading of the outdoor unit
  • Quality of the home’s insulation
  • Condition of the ductwork
  • Technological advancements of the unit
  • Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of the unit

Extends AC’s Lifespan

The longer you wait to repair the AC unit, the less time you will get with your unit. Neglected repairs cause the unit to wear out quicker than normal, which will result in an early replacement. As we all know, air conditioning units are very expensive. If you have a local Orange Beach AC company repair your unit on a timely basis, you will be able to maintain the maximum lifespan of your unit, saving yourself money on installation. 

Less Expensive Repairs

Delaying AC repairs can turn minor issues into major ones, potentially resulting in expensive repairs or even complete system replacement. Small problems, when left unattended, can escalate and affect other components of the AC, leading to more complex and costly repairs. For example, if your AC is not cooling properly, it may be because the filter is dirty. If you don’t clean the filter, the AC will have to work harder to cool the air, which can lead to other problems such as a blown fuse or a damaged compressor. In some cases, a minor problem can even cause the entire AC unit to fail. By addressing issues promptly, you can catch them early and prevent them from becoming more severe and expensive to fix.

Looking For An Orange Beach AC Company?

Have you been noticing signs of needed repair within your AC unit? Call Hansen Super Techs for prompt and expert repairs that will ensure the comfort of your home and the quality of your indoor air. Do not delay repairs and contact us today!

When To Schedule Air Quality Testing Services

When To Schedule Air Quality Testing Services

Jun 11, 2023 | Air Conditioning

With all the services offered by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services, it can be hard to know what services you need and when to schedule them. We understand this dilemma and have written a handful of blogs highlighting various services such as AC repair and maintenance and provided guidance on when to schedule them. In this blog, we will focus on indoor air quality (IAQ) services or and give you pointers on when to schedule IAQ testing in Biloxi for your home. Read on if you’re wondering if you need such services today. 

Regular Maintenance 

The first good reason for scheduling your indoor air quality services is for regular maintenance. Doing so offers the home a variety of benefits including the following:

Improved AC Efficiency

Air conditioning units have a great impact on the quality of air inside your home. In fact, some air quality services focus on cleaning components of the AC such as the air filters, coils, and ductwork. All of these components play a role in the quality of air you breathe at home. 

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Air quality maintenance services are great because they help improve the overall air quality at home. These services identify and remove toxins, pollutants, gasses and other negative particles in the air. 

Healthier Atmosphere

Air quality services are great for maintaining a healthy and clean atmosphere. This is important for everyone at home, but including those with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions. 

Moving to a New Property

If you’re moving to a new property, we highly recommend IAQ testing in Biloxi to ensure that your new house is safe for everyone who will live with you. This is especially true if your home is newly built as many of the construction materials contain harsh pollutants. 

Poor Indoor Air Quality

If you’re concerned about poor indoor air quality in your home, you may benefit from air cleaning or testing. You should be concerned about air quality when you notice the following issues:

  • Increased levels of moisture in the air
  • Moldy or musty smells
  • Smells of cooked oil that won’t go away
  • Persistent cigarette smoke
  • Excessive dust or stuffiness
  • Health symptoms like migraines, congestion, coughing

If any of these issues apply to your home, we encourage you to call and schedule IAQ testing in Biloxi as soon as you can. 

Renovation or Construction

During or after a renovation or construction project, scheduling air quality services can be beneficial. Construction activities can generate dust, debris, and potentially introduce pollutants into the air. As we previously mentioned, some construction materials contain toxic chemicals that must be cleared from the air before residents begin using the home. The only way to tell if these toxins are present is through an IAQ test. Professionals can assess the air quality, perform necessary cleaning or filtration, and ensure a healthy environment.

Preparing for a New Baby

Another good reason to schedule IAQ testing in Biloxi or other air quality services is when your family is preparing to welcome a new addition. Babies come with a new set of lungs and an undeveloped immune system that requires extra love and attention. The cleaner the air in your home, the better it will be for your baby. So add the IAQ test to your nesting list and make sure your home is free of dust, pollutants, and other harmful chemicals. 

Frequently Asked Questions: IAQ Testing

What is involved in an indoor air quality test?

Indoor air quality testing is a comprehensive test usually conducted by a computerized detector that identifies any present pollutants in the air. Usually this system generates a report for the HVAC technician who then delivers the report to the customer and helps them formulate a game plan for making the necessary improvements. 

What is the OSHA standard for air quality?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not have a measurable standard for the air quality of buildings and homes. However, you will find guidelines for other factors of air quality such as humidity, ventilation, and cigarette smoke. 

Schedule Your IAQ Testing in Biloxi

Have you been unsatisfied with the quality of air in your home? Contact Hansen Super Techs and schedule your indoor air quality test today. With the help of our air quality specialists, your home will once again be safe and comfortable.

Top Causes of AC Compressor Damage in Fairhope

Top Causes of AC Compressor Damage in Fairhope

May 30, 2023 | Air Conditioning

Air conditioning systems are great, but they do not come without problems. As the unit ages, it shows signs of wear and tear that will eventually lead to a replacement. In this blog, we will discuss one of the biggest problems an AC can have, which results in its replacement: compressor damage. Read on to learn from the top AC service in Fairhope about how this component works in air conditioning units and how it is damaged. 

What is the Role of the AC Compressor?

Many air conditioning experts refer to the compressor as the “heart” of the AC unit. Without it, the AC will simply not function, and you will find yourself chronically uncomfortable at home. The compressor performs five of the following functions in your air conditioning unit: 

Circulating Refrigerant

One of the most vital roles of the compressor is to circulate refrigerant. Refrigerant is a chemical fluid that makes the conditioning of air possible. It is what cools off the absorbed air flowing through the unit, allowing the home to achieve optimal temperatures. The compressor pushes this fluid to the condenser coil, which is processed and converted into a gas. 

Heat Exchange

When the refrigerant gas is compressed, its temperature rises which allow it to release the absorbed heat from the house into the outside air. This heat exchange process allows the refrigerant to change from a gas to a high-pressure liquid state.

Refrigerant Flow

With the help of the compressor, the refrigerant fluid is pressurized to a special level which allows it to flow smoothly through the system. Thanks to the compressor, the refrigerant can circulate appropriately through the following components of the AC: 

  • Evaporator coil
  • Compressor
  • Condenser coil
  • Expansion valve

Many AC services in Fairhope revolve around troubleshooting and maintaining proper refrigerant flow, which is vital to the cooling process. 

Cooling Effect 

Once the refrigerant fluid is pressurized enough, it can flow smoothly to the expansion valve, where it expands in volume and drops in temperature. After it has cooled, the refrigerant fluid flows through the evaporator coil and absorbs the heat from the home.

System Performance

The compressor is responsible for controlling the operation of the entire unit. If it is working inefficiently, the entire system will suffer. Poor compressor performance leads to the following problems: 

  • Inconsistent heating and cooling
  • High energy bills
  • Failure to start
  • Hot air blowing through the vents when the thermostat is set to cool

If you notice any of these issues within your home, it is imperative that you contact your AC service tech in Fairhope for a diagnosis and repair of the problem. 

AC Compressors are Damaged By

The compressor is key to the process of the air conditioning system. This process is hindered when the compressor is damaged under the following circumstances: 

Poor Maintenance Practices

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is neglecting to maintain their air conditioning unit. This neglect is evident when they choose to delay AC repairs. Even the smallest of issues can grow into a bigger problem that will wear out the compressor, causing long-term, expensive damage. The best way to avoid this problem is to call your AC repair tech when you notice any issues and keep up with regular maintenance services at least once a year. 

Old Age

The age of the unit isn’t anybody’s fault. After all, nobody can stop the time from going on. However, it is important to pay attention to the age of your unit and be mindful of its lifespan, which is about 15-20 years. The compressor gets worn out with age and loses its efficiency, and will eventually fail to work correctly. 

Electrical Problems

Electrical issues cause the compressor to wear out faster than necessary. These issues include power surges, short circuits, and other electrical failures.  These problems lead to poor efficiency, failure to start, and motor overload. 

Overuse or Overheating 

Running the AC system for extended periods, especially during hot summer months, can cause the compressor to overheat, leading to damage. We recommend giving your AC a break at least every 8-10 hours and running it within no more than a 7-degree difference. 

Refrigerant Leaks

Because refrigerant fluid and AC compressors work so closely with one another, any disturbance in the levels of refrigerant fluid will impact the AC’s performance. Low refrigerant levels will cause the compressor to work harder than necessary, causing it to go into overdrive and eventually fail. 

Top AC Service in Fairhope

Are you suspecting compressor damage within your AC unit? If so, contact Hansen Super Techs for a prompt and professional repair by calling (251) 325-4338.