What You Need To Know Before Replacing Your AC Unit?

Your AC unit works tirelessly all summer to ensure a comfortable indoor environment. If you are a homeowner, there are a few things you need to know about how an air conditioning system works. How long have you had your AC unit in your home? If it is 10 or 15 years old, it might be time to start thinking about replacing your AC system.

Here are a few things you should consider first:

• Should you replace all parts of an HVAC System? Yes. A mismatched system may not deliver the energy efficiency or performance you need. Therefore it is best to replace a heating system at the same time you replace an AC unit.
• Should you invest in programmable thermostats? Programmable thermostats allow you to program your settings to automatically adjust heating and cooling levels.
•  What is SEER rating? Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio is the measurement of system efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy requires HVAC systems have a minimum rating of 13. However, the higher the SEER rating the more money you will save on operational costs.
• Do you care about comfort, energy costs or the environment? Today’s energy efficient units combine superior comfort for your home while saving money.
• Should you repair or replace your AC unit? If your system is over 10 years old, there’s a chance that it is not energy efficient. An energy efficient unit will help you save anywhere upwards to 30% on your energy bill.
• Who should you call? Professional HVAC technicians have experience doing the job right the first time. Before setting up an appointment, make sure they are certified, licensed and insured. 

A new air conditioning system can save you time and money by working more efficiently. If you have any questions about replacing your current air conditioning unit or would like to speak with a professional about your options, contact Blue Flame Heating & Air Conditioning. Our professionals have years of experience in both residential and commercial air conditioning including installation, replacement, repair and maintenance.

To schedule your free estimate, give us a call at 509-536-0186.

4 Money Saving HVAC Tips for Summer

During the hot summer weather, it’s more important than ever to have a comfortable home environment to cool down. Summer is the time of year when your AC unit works tirelessly to combat the heat. One of the easiest and most efficient ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is with preventative maintenance. In order to save money and energy, try these simple steps!

Programmable Thermostat:

Saving energy is as simple as utilizing a programmable thermostat. “Smart” thermostats allow you to program your settings to automatically adjust heating and cooling levels. This is more energy efficient and will save you money in the long run.

Change Air Filters:

Replacing your air filter regularly is a simple and cost-effective way to avoid costly repairs. A filter clogged with dust or pet dander makes the unit work harder to heat and cool your home. Having a clean filter allows air to circulate more freely through the system, saving you energy costs and reducing your bill.

Clean Outside Unit:

Do you have plants growing around your air conditioning unit? After a long winter, your outdoor unit is likely in need of some TLC. Remove any excess plants, dirt and debris on and around your AC unit that may be interfering with the ability to function. We recommend at least a foot of space cleared around the unit for maximum efficiency.

Call a Professional:

While it’s easy to give your HVAC system a once-over, a professional will be able to thoroughly check all parts of a unit to ensure it is running at peak efficiency. Professional technicians know when a filter should be changed, how to clean an evaporator coil and the repairs necessary to keep your home cool.

If you need assistance with preventative maintenance or have a cooling emergency, Blue Flame Heating and Air Conditioning LLC is here to help! We are fully licensed and insured to provide you with a range of commercial/residential HVAC services. Give our trained technicians a call at 509-536-0186 to discuss your cooling needs!

Why You Should Change The Filter On Your Air Conditioning System?

As we get deeper into the heat of summer, you will likely be turning your air conditioning unit on more and more.  One of the easiest and most important ways to keep your AC running smoothly is by changing the filter.  Almost every air conditioning system has a filter and its job is to remove particles from the air and keep your air conditioner clean.

Changing your unit’s filter regularly ensures your system will run more efficiently and maintain better air quality. Experts recommend that you check your unit’s air filter monthly and change it every 1-3 months. A filter clogged with dust or pet dander makes the unit work harder to heat and cool your home. Having a clean filter allows air to circulate more freely through the system, saving you energy costs and extending the life of your unit.  

Because an air filter affects indoor air quality, it is important to inspect heating and air conditioning filters regularly for your safety. Replace it if it looks brown, dirty, or clogged. Always replace a filter that feels damp, to prevent mold growth. Indoor air quality is important for everyone, but if someone in the home suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems, it is especially important to make sure the unit is running with a clean filter. Those who run their units year-round, own pets, smoke, or have had construction or a wildfire in the area should also change the filter more frequently.

Replacing your heating and air conditioning filter regularly is a simple and cost-effective way to avoid costly repairs and replacements. It is also an easy step to take towards lowering your energy bill, reducing carbon emissions, and maintaining a clean indoor air environment. Avoiding an overworked, inefficient unit will help keep your heating and air conditioning unit in operation and cut down on allergens and pollutants in your home.

At Blue Flame Heating & Air Conditioning LLC, we have over 20 years of heating and air conditioning experience in the Spokane area!  Whether you are looking for preventative maintenance or are in need of a new HVAC system to keep your home cool, our professionals can help.  Give us a call at 509-536-0186 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your air conditioning needs this summer.