Refrigerant fluid is an essential component of air conditioning systems and plays a crucial role in keeping our homes and workplaces cool and comfortable. The purpose of refrigerant fluid is to transfer heat from the inside space to the outside air, which is why it is an integral part of air conditioning. Hansen’s air conditioning techs have seen many refrigerant fluid problems. In this blog post, we will discuss why refrigerant is so important for AC systems.
The Role of Refrigerant in Air Conditioning
Refrigerant fluid has three main roles that require proper maintenance. Check out why your AC system is so dependent on this fluid.
Absorbs Heat
First and foremost, refrigerant fluid is responsible for absorbing heat from inside a space that needs to be cooled. The refrigerant fluid evaporates, absorbing heat from the air, and then travels to the condenser coil outside the building. Here, the refrigerant refill releases the heat into the outside air, condenses back into the liquid, and then returns to the evaporator coil to start the cycle over again. This process of absorbing and releasing is what keeps a space cool and comfortable.
If your home isn’t being cooled adequately, perhaps the AC unit needs a refill of refrigerant fluids. In that case, you can contact Hansen’s air conditioning techs for assistance.
Maintains Air Quality
Refrigerant fluid is also important for maintaining air quality. By removing heat and moisture from the air, refrigerant fluid helps to humidify the air and prevent mold and mildew from growing. This is especially important in hot, humid climates, where indoor air quality can be a significant concern.
Constant mugginess in the air can be caused by an AC issue. Call Hansen’s air conditioning repair techs to help diagnose and repair the problem.
Keeps the AC Efficient
Another important factor that makes refrigerant fluid so important for AC systems is its impact on energy efficiency. When an AC system is running smoothly and efficiently, it uses less energy, which can result in lower energy bills. This is because the refrigerant fluid is able to transfer heat more efficiently, which means that the AC system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
When the refrigerant fluid is not at the correct pressure, the AC system will have to work harder, which can result in increased energy consumption and higher energy bills. If you notice higher energy bills, consider contacting a Hansen air conditioning tech for assistance in understanding the culprit behind those bills.
What if the Refrigerant Isn’t Maintained?
When refrigerant fluids are not maintained properly, they can negatively impact the environment. Most of the refrigerants used in AC systems have a high global warming potential, meaning that they can contribute to global warming if they are released into the atmosphere. As a result, any responsible homeowner will recognize the importance of ensuring that refrigerant fluid is properly maintained. This means that a regular maintenance inspection is performed by a Hansen air conditioning tech to check the system for leaks.
Types of Refrigerant Fluids
You may be surprised to learn that there are many different types of refrigerants available, each with its own unique properties and benefits. For example, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are widely used in AC systems due to their low environmental impact and safety. On the other hand, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) have a high ozone depletion potential and are being phased out of use due to their effects on the ozone layer. As a result, if your AC runs on one of the latter two refrigerant fluids, you may see an increase in the price of refrigerant fluids during your next maintenance inspection.
Contact Hansen Air Conditioning
Is your AC in need of repair? Or perhaps you have more questions about refrigerant fluids for your unit? Do not hesitate to contact Hansen Super Techs today to have all your questions answered and to have all your repairs performed at the highest quality. Give us a call today at (251) 227-4441.
Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities for most homeowners, who are in the process of choosing the best heating and air conditioning system for their home. With the recent advances in the HVAC industry, there are many different ways to supply your home with a highly efficient HVAC system. Hansen Super Tech’s HVAC techs are the leading experts in Baldwin County on all things related to heating and air.
In today’s article, we will be talking about all things related to heat pumps. We will discuss what they are, the advantages they offer, and understand the differences between the three types of heat pumps.
What Are Heat Pumps?
Heat pumps are highly innovative and are probably the most sustainable way to provide heating and air conditioning to your home. This is because they extract heat from the earth via a pump system and transfer them into the home through a web of coils and loops underneath the ground. Whether it is cold or hot outside, heat pumps will deliver the optimal and preferred temperatures to your home to make you as comfortable as possible, and with a minimal amount of energy expenditure.
Advantages of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps provide many advantages to the homeowner. They are first and foremost, very efficient and optimize the atmosphere in your home. Since they use fossil fuels and energy, extracted directly from the earth, you will not need any additional electricity or gas to power your AC. As a result, your energy bills will be lower than with a traditional HVAC unit.
Many of Hansen Super Tech’s HVAC customers who choose heat pumps for their homes also enjoy the quiet operation of the system. Because most of the components are underground, most of the sounds that they create do not travel very far. Furthermore, heat pumps are usually encased in noise-canceling insulation that also blocks off those sounds.
Heat pumps also require very little maintenance in comparison to traditional AC units and furnaces. This is another great characteristic of heat pumps which helps homeowners save a lot of money in the long run.
The Three Types of Heat Pumps
Navigating the HVAC world of various units and systems can be very overwhelming. However, with the help of Hansen Super Tech’s HVAC team, this process does go a lot smoother! In general, most homeowners are shown three types of heat pumps when they’re in the process of making their decision:
Duct Air-Source
Air source heat pumps operate by transferring heat between the house and the air outside. This is probably one of the most common heat pumps available on the market and is used widely in different regions of the country. It is one of the most popular HVAC systems in warmer regions, and because of recent technology advancements, even generally colder states get to enjoy the benefits of duct air source heat pumps.
Ductless Air-Source
Ductless air source heat pumps operate in a similar fashion as duct air source pumps, except they are compatible with mini-split systems. These types of pumps are more commonly known as mini-split heat pumps. It is most applicable to those who do not have a central HVAC system, but rather use a ductless mini split.
Generally, the heat pump that you use will most likely default to the type of AC that is already installed in your home. But, with Hansen Super Tech’s HVAC installation technicians, you will have the best guidance and assistance in creating an air conditioning system for your home that is most in alignment with your needs.
Geothermal Heat
Geothermal heat pumps are most commonly known as water or ground-source heat pumps. These types of pumps create a lot of efficiency by exchanging the heat in your home with a water source. This provides a very economical and earth, friendly way of ensuring comfort in your home because geothermal heat pumps do not require any additional electricity or gas in order to enhance the comfort of your home. Instead, they use the natural resources that are already available in and around the house.
Contact Hansen Super Tech’s HVAC Techs
Are you in need of heating and air conditioning for your home? Contact Hansen Super Techs today to learn more about the options available to you.
As we approach the new fall and winter seasons, the demand for heating use inside our homes will only increase. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your heater is in the best working order to accommodate the needs of your home.
At Hansen Air, our goal is to ensure that our customers in Gulfport, MS, and its surrounding areas are comfortable in their homes all season long. Thus, we created a list of the most common signs that your heater may be due for a replacement. Do you need a heater replacement in your home? Read on to find out.
1. Decreased Efficiency
One of the signs that your heater may need to be replaced is a decrease in its efficiency. This can be caused by a variety of factors like clogged air filters and ducts, low refrigerant fluids, dirty coils, and a whole host of other issues.
You will notice a decrease in efficiency when your home isn’t warming up as fast as it used to, while the bills continue to climb higher. When this happens, it is best to contact an HVAC repair tech in Gulfport, MS for a thorough investigation of the problem. It can be a sign of normal wear and tear, or it may require a quick repair to optimize the efficiency levels again.
Have you been needing HVAC repairs in Gulfport, MS more often? This may be a sign that perhaps your heater is at the end of its lifespan. It is one thing to replace a part here and there, but when it becomes a constant issue, replacing it will be the best option.
When repairs increase, a heater replacement will help save money on repair costs and your energy bills. Read our blog post on some of the factors to consider when buying a new furnace.
3. Excessive Noise
A noisy furnace can be one of the strongest reasons for a heater replacement. It can be a nuisance to deal with the excessive noise, but what is more concerning is its root cause. The weird sounds you hear from your furnace can be caused by one of the following:
Dirty Igniter/Burner
Malfunctioning heat exchanger
Loose doors and panels
Worn-out blower bearings
Loose blower motor
And more…
These sounds will need to be looked at by an HVAC repair tech as they can lead to greater problems. Find out why your furnace is so loud in our blog post on the different types of sounds.
4. Decreased Indoor Air Quality
One of the biggest driving factors that will make you consider a heater replacement is a decrease in indoor air quality. Signs of decreased indoor air quality include:
Increased accumulation of dust
Excessive stuffiness/mugginess
Migraines
Increased allergies, coughing, and respiratory issues
Foul smells
The most significant concern in indoor air quality is a leak of carbon monoxide from a broken heat exchanger. In this case, you will need to vacate the property immediately and contact an HVAC repair tech in Gulfport, MS for emergency assistance. Exposure to carbon monoxide will lead to very toxic and hazardous health conditions.
A broken heat exchanger is one of the leading reasons why you shouldn’t delay HVAC repair. Learn about the other emergency repairs by reading one of our recent blog posts.
5. The furnace is Over 15 Years Old
Everything in life must come to an end, including the heaters in our homes. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be coming to the end of its lifespan. As it gets older, you will notice all of the aforementioned issues presenting themselves in your heater’s function.
To maximize the use of your heater, it is best to keep up with regular maintenance checks that help avoid early heater replacement. Check out our blog to learn when your should schedule your HVAC maintenance visit and why it is so important.
HVAC Repair in Gulfport, MS
Have you noticed any of these signs in your home’s heater? Contact Hansen Air today to schedule a repair or a heater replacement service. We are available 24/7 to help you stay safe and comfortable in your home. Call us at (844) 425 -1595.
It is not a secret that winters in Alabama can be quite chilly. As the fall and winter seasons approach, it is important to make some necessary preparations in order to prepare your home for the winter months. Some of those preparations involve preparing your furnace for the winter months.
In this article, we outline the benefits of furnace repair and how to best prepare your HVAC system for the colder months. Read on to learn how to ensure a warm and comfortable home all season long.
Benefits of Routine Furnace Repair
The use of the furnace is always key to a warm and cozy atmosphere when it is cold and frigid outside. Simple repairs and tune ups will allow you to get the most out of your heating system without running into more costly and extensive repairs. A thorough maintenance check normally consists of cleaning the HVAC system, filters, and coils to ensure HVAC efficiency.
Some people choose to perform maintenance checks themselves, but not everyone is skilled and educated enough in furnace repairs. Therefore, we encourage you to contact your local furnace repair service like Hansen Air Pros, who will set you on the right path for a comfortable winter.
How to Winterize the AC System
As you prepare your home for another winter season, there are certain steps you can take to prepare your AC for the cold months. If you choose to take on the task of winterizing your AC on your own, here are a few things you will need to:
Find the pipes and drain lines connected to your unit and empty them. Doing so will ensure that they won’t freeze during the cold season.
Check and refill the refrigerant levels if needed.
Check the belts and pulleys and reposition or tighten them if needed.
Inspect and clean the ducts of any dust and debris.
Clean the coils by removing any dust and debris.
Sounds like quite a few steps, right? This task list will be made easy with the help of your local furnace repair techs.
Once the cleaning portion of the inside of the unit and ducts is complete, you will also need to prepare the area around the outdoor unit as well.
Clean the area around the outdoor condenser unit. Remove all toys, equipment, dust, and debris on and around the unit. Make sure nothing is sitting on top of the unit as well.
Trim down any plants and rake away fallen leaves within a 4 ft. radius around the unit.
Protect the unit from the cold elements by covering it with a tarp or its specially manufactured cover.
To ensure that your furnace works well and without a hitch all winter long, the techs at Hansen Air Pros recommend checking the following items:
Check your filters! Are they clean? It is recommended to clean or replace air filters at least every 90 days to ensure efficient airflow and optimized air quality.
Check the age of your furnace! The average lifespan of a furnace is 10-15 years, depending on the manufacturer. If you noticed an increase in furnace repairs or an increase in energy bills during winter months, it may be time to replace the furnace.
Check the thermostat for proper calibration and battery supply. There’s nothing like a failing thermostat in the dead of winter, so ensure that the thermostat is ready to serve you year round. Though replacing batteries is fairly easy, checking the calibration may require an expert’s help.
Furnace repair is available at a high quality and affordable price through Hansen Air Pros. Most furnace repairs can benefit from a good cleaning. Check out our blog on how to clean a furnace or heat pump.
Set Up Your Fall Maintenance Visit Today!
Is your home ready for the upcoming winter months? With seasons changing ever so fast, we urge you not to delay your preparations. Contact Hansen Air Pros today to schedule your furnace maintenance visit today by calling (844) 425-1595.
Furnaces can make a variety of sounds. Blowing noises may be the normal movement of air through your HVAC ductwork and vents. But there are other reasons why your furnace may be making a loud blowing noise. We’ll explain when you should be concerned, and other noises that indicate a problem that may require furnace repair.
The Furnace Is Rumbling
A slight woosh or roar at the end of a furnace cycle isn’t uncommon. But loud rumbling can be a bit of a concern. It can mean fuel is still burning after the burners shut off. A rumble doesn’t always sound like a big deal, but don’t ignore it. You risk being exposed to carbon monoxide, so call an HVAC repair contractor right away.
What to Do If My Furnace Is Humming
If your furnace is producing a low humming noise, this is no cause for concern. Most furnaces do while they’re on, and chirping, rattling, crackling, or pinging are generally normal. But a louder humming noise or buzzing sound can mean the motor or fan may be damaged or wearing out. These sounds should be investigated by an HVAC technician, especially for electrical issues.
Causes of a Thwapping Noise
A thwapping sound may be subtle amongst the backdrop of normal swooshes and hums. Nonetheless, it can indicate something is interfering with the furnace’s blower blades. The cause often isn’t alarming, but wear and tear may be affecting the motor, forcing it to work harder. In turn, your furnace may run less efficiently.
The Furnace Is Whistling Loudly
If your furnace is making a loud blowing noise that morphs into an irritating whistle or squeak, a blower problem may be the cause. While reduced airflow due to a dirty or clogged filter can make these sounds, a loose bolt or component can as well. Low airflow will strain the motor as it tries to draw in more air. Try changing the air filter or opening all the vents, but if there’s still a high-pitched whistling sound, repairs might be necessary.
The Furnace Is Booming and Banging
If the normal sounds of your HVAC system turn into a booming, chances are there’s an air pressure issue in the ducts. They may be undersized. In this case air pressure can cause them to expand and contract. As metal pops in and out, it creates loud bangs or pops. If not fixed, the issue can cause damage to your ductwork and vital HVAC components.
Banging or booming sounds that occur when starting up the furnace are more dangerous. These can indicate a delayed gas ignition, which can happen due to a faulty component or improper gas to air ratio. The bangs you hear are actually small explosions. Gas is building up, which means the heat exchanger can be damaged and your safety may be at risk.
Other Furnace Noises to Be Concerned About
Screeching sounds can indicate a motor or fan belt problem. Clunking or bumping can mean a belt is cracked. If your furnace is whining, it’s time to have a contractor check the system.
Clicking sounds are normal as the furnace fires up, but if they persist throughout the heating cycle, the igniter may be struggling to turn on. Faulty fan motors can cause clicking sounds, but the furnace should be inspected by a professional for dirty burners, damaged flame sensors, or problems with the ignition board, control panel, or a valve.
If you have a high-efficiency gas furnace, a gurgling, dripping, or splashing noise can mean the drain pan is clogged or drainpipe is blocked. Watery sounds from vents or air ducts can indicate moisture problems that can lead to mold and structural damage. It’s therefore always important to call an HVAC contractor for unusual noise.
Call Hansen Air Pros to Investigate Furnace Noise
Our licensed technicians are experienced in furnace repair and can determine the source of any loud blowing noise or other sound your system is making. Once they quickly diagnose the problem, you’ll receive an upfront quote. We strongly suggest calling as soon as there are signs of trouble, as it can prevent breakdowns and more heating repairs. Don’t be left in the cold during a Mobile winter. Contact Hansen Air Pros at 251-551-9245; we’re available 24/7 to help.
There are many different air filters on the market, but two of the most common are HEPA and Merv filters. While they both serve the same purpose of cleaning the air in your home or office, they have some key differences.
What Is a HEPA Filter?
A HEPA filter is a type of air filter that removes 99.97% of all particles as small as 0.03 microns from the air. HEPA, or High-Efficiency Particulate Air, filters are often used in hospitals and other medical settings because they are effective at removing bacteria, viruses, and other allergens from the air.
These filters are designed to specifically remove tiny allergens, dust, and smoke particles from the air, making them ideal for people with allergies or asthma.
HEPA filters are typically more expensive than other types of air filters, but they offer the highest level of filtration. They are also very effective at trapping particles, and they need to be replaced less often than other filters.
Features of a HEPA Filter
Some features of a HEPA filter include:
Removes 99.97% of all particles as small as 0.03 microns
Ideal for people with allergies or asthma
Is more expensive than other types of filters but lasts longer
Types of HEPA filters
There are two types of HEPA filters:
True HEPA filters remove 99.97% of all particles as small as 0.03 microns
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters remove 95% of all particles as small as 0.30 microns
What Is a MERV Filter?
A MERV filter is a type of air filter that removes larger particles from the air, such as pet dander, dust, and pollen. MERV stands for “minimum efficiency reporting value,” and filters with a higher MERV rating remove more particles from the air.
MERV filters are less expensive than HEPA filters and are available in a variety of sizes, making them ideal for homes and offices of all sizes. It does not remove as many tiny allergens and smoke particles as a HEPA filter, but it is less expensive and can be replaced more often.
MERV filters are not as effective at trapping particles as HEPA filters, so they do not offer the same level of filtration. However, they are still a good option for people who want to remove larger allergens from the air.
Features of a MERV Filter
Some features of a MERV filter include:
Removes large particles such as pet dander, dust, and pollen
Less expensive than HEPA filters
Needs to be replaced more often than HEPA filters
Isn’t as effective at trapping particles as a HEPA filter but still a good option for people who want to remove allergens from the air
MERV filters are rated on a scale from one to 16 with the higher numbers indicating a more effective filter. A MERV filter with a rating of six or higher is generally recommended for people with allergies or asthma.
Types of MERV Filters
The two types of MERV filters are mechanical and disposable. Mechanical MERV filters use a physical barrier to trap particles whereas disposable MERV filters are made of paper or fiberglass and can be replaced once they become clogged. Both types are effective at removing allergens from the air, but disposable filters are less expensive and are easier to replace than mechanical filters.
The most popular type of MERV filter is the disposable type, which is less expensive and easier to replace than mechanical filters.
What’s the Difference?
HEPA filters are different from MERV rated filters in the following ways:
HEPA filters remove 99.97% of all particles as small as 0.03 microns whereas MERV filters only remove larger particles.
HEPA filters need to be replaced less often than MERV filters.
HEPA filters are more expensive than MERV-rated filters.
While MERV filters are rated 1-16, HEPA filters are not rated since they exceed ASHRAE Standard 52.19.
MERV filters are not as effective at trapping particles as HEPA filters.
In general, HEPA filters are more effective at removing tiny allergens and smoke particles from the air than MERV filters. However, MERV filters are less expensive and can be replaced more often. If you are looking for a filter that removes large allergens from the air, a MERV filter may be a better option for you.
HEPA Filter Use
Due to the highly effective nature of a HEPA filter, it is used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, laboratories, and factories.
HEPA filters are also recommended for people with allergies or asthma. A HEPA filter can help reduce the amount of allergens in the air, which can improve your quality of life.
In environments where the required air filtration standards are high, such as in the medical field or with products that can produce fine dust particles, a HEPA filter is a necessary part of air filtration.
MERV Filter Use
MERV air filters are commonly used in residential and commercial settings. They are less expensive than HEPA filters and can be replaced more often.
MERV air filters will provide clean air for people who are not as sensitive to allergens as those with allergies or asthma.
MERV filters should not be used where the required air filtration standards are high. For example, they should not be used in hospitals, laboratories, or factories.
Choosing an Air Filter
When choosing an air filter, it is important to consider several factors. These are:
Environment: The type of environment will be an important factor in your decision. If you are in a dusty environment, you will need to use a filter with a higher MERV rating. As we saw earlier, sensitive environments such as laboratories and hospitals have a higher air filtration standard and require a HEPA filter.
Needs: Consider what your needs are. If you are looking for a filter to remove large allergens from the air, then a MERV-rated filter is a good option. If you need a filter to remove tiny allergens and smoke particles from the air, then a HEPA filter is a better option.
Cost: Filters come in a variety of prices. Consider how often the filter will need to be replaced and how much you are willing to spend on one.
Size: Filters also come in different sizes. Make sure to choose one that will fit your needs. A professional can help you determine the size of the filter you need.
Air Filter Maintenance
Both HEPA and MERV filters need to be maintained to continue working effectively. It is recommended that you replace your air filter every six months to a year, depending on the type of filter you have.
A professional should be called to clean or to replace your air filter since you do not want to tamper with the HVAC system.
Know Your Professionals
Hansen Air Pros LLC is a professional HVAC company serving residential and commercial clients in the Alabama area. Founded in 2006, we take pride in providing expert HVAC services to all clients with a qualified team of industry experts available 24/7.
Our HVAC services include installations and repair, maintenance, and 24/7 emergency service. Client testimonials are available on our website, and a free estimate is provided for all services.
Contact Hansen Air Pros today for reliable HVAC services!
