How Often Should You Clean Your A/C's Condensate Drain Line?

Your air conditioner’s condensate drain line is a critical component on Oklahoma summer days. In addition to cooling the air inside your home, the central A/C also extracts water vapor from the air. Lots of it. On a humid day, the evaporator coil sealed inside the indoor air handler can produce many gallons of liquid condensate.If everything’s functioning correctly, condensate collected in the drip pan underneath the air handler flows into the drain line and is safely conveyed away. If a clog develops in the condensate drain line, however, the drip pan will rapidly overflow, potentially spilling gallons of water every time the air conditioner cycles on. Before the problem is even noticed, severe indoor water damage may result.

What Causes Clogs?

The typical culprit in condensate drain line clogs is algae in the drip pan. The warm, wet, dark environment inside the pan provides ideal conditions for growth of algae. Eventually, the sticky, gooey substance invades the drain line and causes a clog. Overflow quickly follows.

What Can Be Done To Prevent Clogs?

DIY prevention can help stop clogs by inhibiting algae growth. Once a month, prepare a mixture of one cup of white vinegar and one cup of water. Pour it into the wide, shallow drip pan underneath the air handler. Take the opportunity to also check out the status of the drip pan. If it’s wet, that’s normal. However, if you notice standing water, that indicates a clogged or sluggish drain line. Turn off the A/C and call a qualified HVAC service contractor.

Professional service to clear a condensate clog includes blowing out the drain line with air pressure, then cleaning and sterilizing the drip pan and drain line to eliminate residual algae. For long-term protection, time-release biocide tablets can also be placed in the drip pan to prevent recurrence of algae growth.

For professional service to resolve condensate drain line problems, contact Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Name That Tune: What a Humming Air Conditioner Means

All air conditioners make noise as they run, mainly from the blower fans and the compressors. When the dominant sound is a humming air conditioner, odds are, something isn’t working as it should. The most common problems associated with the humming sound include:

Indoor Noises

• When you hear humming sounds from the air handler, it may be caused by a frozen motor. Some blower motors require periodic lubrication to keep their bearings turning smoothly. A lack of oil will seize the bearings and prevent the motor’s shaft from turning. It could conceivably run until it burns out.

• Humming from the breaker box. Whenever you hear humming sounds near the circuit breaker panel, suspect a serious electrical problem and turn off the noisy breaker. If you can’t identify which, turn off the main breaker and contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Outdoors

A humming sound is much more likely to originate in the outdoor condenser and it could be coming from:

• The compressor. This part does the heavy lifting in cooling systems and it could hum or buzz when it’s at the end of its lifetime. It could also indicate an electrical problem involving the compressor.Compressors sit on rubber isolation feet that can wear out or crack. Damaged feet can cause the compressor vibrations to amplify and cause humming sounds.

• Frozen coil. It might seem counterintuitive, but a humming air conditioner may have a frozen coil. Coils freeze when the refrigerant level is too low or they’re too dirty. A frozen coil can do serious damage to a heat pump or A/C should the compressor continue to run.

• Fan problems. The condenser uses a large fan to blow the heat off the hot refrigerant. There could be a problem with its motor or the fan blade, which could be loose or bent.

Whenever you hear a humming air conditioner and it’s not working as it should or the sound is isn’t part of its normal operation, contact the pros at Air Assurance to diagnose and fix it. We proudly provide HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

A Room-by-Room Look at Where You Can Maximize Energy Efficiency

Increasing your home’s energy efficiency may not be out of your reach, regardless of your budget. Even the smallest efforts you make on a room-by-room lower the amount you use, leaving more money in your pocket.

Overall Improvements

• Look for air leaks around windows and exterior doors and seal with caulk or fresh weatherstripping.

• Identify areas in the attic where insulation is lacking and add more.

• Make a note to check the air filter for the HVAC system when it’s running often. Dirty filters increase energy bills and shorten the life of HVAC systems.

Living Areas

• As you upgrade your home’s electronics and entertainment system, choose Energy Star-rated models.

• Install reversible ceiling fans to use summer and winter for greater comfort. A fan increases comfort in the summer and when reversed, will actually warm the room in the winter.

Kitchen

• Use the ventilation fan in the summer to remove heat while cooking.

• Turn to the microwave and slow cookers during exceptionally hot weather. They use less energy and emit less heat than using the stove or oven.

• Run full loads in the dishwasher and let them air dry instead of using the dry cycle.

Bathrooms

• Run the ventilation fans when bathing during the summer to remove hot, humid air.

• Replace old or leaking faucets with WaterSense fixtures that use much less water.

• Turn the water heater down to 120 degrees F. Not only does it increase water heating energy efficiency, it also reduces the risk of scalding and extends the life of the water heater.

Bedrooms

• Whenever the HVAC system is running, make sure the windows are locked to prevent air infiltration.

• Use ceiling or floor fans to lower the “feels like” temperature when sleeping.

• Install shade screens on south- or west-facing windows that receive direct sunlight.

• Use smart power strips or surge protectors that turn off when it detects the devices are idle.

Taking steps to increase energy efficiency at home reduces your monthly overhead and often increases indoor comfort. For more information, contact Air Assurance, providing HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

How to Combat Your Allergies with Your HVAC System

We're always thrilled to see spring arrive in Broken Arrow, but with it come the inevitable discomforts of spring allergies. Fortunately you've got a friend in combating them that you may not have even been aware of: your HVAC system. Learn how to effectively use your HVAC system to get your household's suffering from allergies and other respiratory ailments under control.

Control Allergens at the Source

No matter what you're allergic to -- be it pollen, pet dander, dust, mold or chemical pollutants in your home -- they should be controlled at the source. Your springtime allergic reactions are most likely caused by flowering plants and the pollen they produce. Reduce the pollen that gets into your home by doing the following

• Keep doors and windows closed.

• Brush off clothes and pets before entering the home.

• Sequester pollen-bearing plants in one room with the door closed, until they are finished producing pollen.

• Fit wire mesh or plastic filters on window screens to block pollen when windows are open.

Trapping Pollen

Pollen that is circulating in your home's air can be trapped in the HVAC system with a good quality, pleated air filter. Low cost fiberglass filters won't do much to improve your indoor air quality, so choose a filter rated from MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) 8-12.

You might also look into some type of electrostatic filter to install in your HVAC system. These filters attract airborne particulates with an electric charge. The particles stick to the filter, which must be cleaned periodically to be effective. They are somewhat expensive, but on the other hand, will last a long time so don't have to be changed and discarded the way other filters do.

Room air purifiers may also help. They use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters to clean air before it is recirculated. These portable models are sold according to the size room you want to purify. More effective are whole-house air cleaners, installed in the HVAC system.

For more on using the HVAC system to combat allergies, contact Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

What is a "Properly Matched" System?

You may have heard of the term “properly matched” if you’re in the market for a new HVAC system. Having a properly matched system is important if you want to get the most out of your heating and cooling equipment. Read on to learn more about properly matched systems and the problems that could come with using mismatched equipment.

A Matched Set Ensures Proper Performance

Most split HVAC systems are comprised of two parts: an indoor air handler that contains the evaporator coil and blower fan and an outdoor cabinet containing the compressor and condenser coil. Both halves are connected by copper or aluminum lines that circulate refrigerant between the two halves.

The two halves of a typical split HVAC system are designed to work as a team, highlighting the importance of a properly matched system. Matching one halve with another that’s not specifically designed to work with the other can result in poor performance, among other issues.

Perils of Mismatching

If you need to replace your HVAC system, you might be tempted to replace only half of the system in order to save money. However, this pennywise step can quickly turn into a pound-foolish mistake for a variety of reasons:

• Improperly matched HVAC equipment can fail prematurely due to added stress on mismatched components.

• Mismatched units that use non-ozone depleting refrigerants will fail when mated to equipment using older, incompatible refrigerants such as R-22.

• Improperly matched HVAC systems are not only unreliable, but they’re also extremely inefficient.

• Using improperly matched equipment can also void your HVAC warranty.

Undoing the damage caused by improperly matched HVAC equipment can also be expensive. In many cases, the damage can be so severe that only a complete replacement can correct the issue.

Only a properly matched system offers the performance, longevity and efficiency you expect from your heating and cooling equipment. If you need a new HVAC system for your Broken Arrow home, contact Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Do You Need Additional Insurance for Your HVAC Unit?

Your HVAC system contains some of your home's most essential and expensive equipment, so you need to have the assurance that it's fully protected against damage. HVAC insurance can provide this peace of mind, but it's vital to know if your equipment has adequate coverage now under your existing policies, or if you need to purchase additional insurance. Here's a look at the various ways your HVAC can be protected:

Typical HVAC Equipment Coverage Under Homeowners' Insurance

If damage occurs to your HVAC equipment from one of the named perils listed in your homeowner's policy, it's most likely covered. These types of events can include:

• Accidental fires

• Hail, wind or similar storm damage

• Vandalism and theft

• Power surges and lightning strikes

• Impact from falling objects, like a tree limb

• Floods caused by ruptured pipes

Exceptions to Homeowners' Insurance Coverage

If your HVAC system components are damaged accidentally, your homeowner's policy likely won't cover you for repairs or a replacement. Equipment breakdowns and failures due to normal wear, old age or maintenance issues aren't covered either. Plus, HVAC damage caused by flooding that occurs during a natural disaster isn't typically covered under standard homeowner's insurance, unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.

Major Appliance or Home Warranty Insurance

There are companies that offer supplemental warranties that act as insurance coverage against breakdowns/failures and the repair or replacement of major appliances and household equipment, such as your HVAC components. The cost of these policies can vary greatly, as well as the exact coverage and terms.

HVAC Contractor Service Plans

Reputable local HVAC contractors usually offer service plans for household heating and cooling systems. This kind of coverage focuses on preventive maintenance, so it's rather like a hedge against equipment breakdowns and failures. A good service plan should give you a variety of benefits that include twice-yearly maintenance visits, savings on parts, labor and after-hour service, extended warranties on new equipment, and priority service.To learn more about HVAC insurance or how our extended service plans can protect the comfort equipment in your Broken Arrow home, contact us today at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Spring Cleaning and Your HVAC System

When you make out a spring cleaning list, you likely include cleaning out the closets, giving the refrigerator a good once over while throwing away any out-of-date food in the freezer, cleaning windows and performing a host of other chores that you might get to only once a year. One task you should add to that list is looking after your HVAC system.Many homeowners think that all you need to do come spring is turn off the furnace and turn on the air conditioner. But giving your A/C a little attention before you turn it on for the cooling season could be quite beneficial. Not only will it run more efficiently so that you save money on utilities, but you'll also help ensure that it stays in good working order throughout the season.

HVAC Cleanup -- Inside and Outside

Your A/C likely is a split system model with two parts: an outdoor condenser, and the indoor air handler and evaporator coils. Let's start with the condenser. After winter's done, check around the condenser for leaves, dirt and other debris that may have collected on your unit's coils and fins. If you're able to easily access them, you can clean them with a sprayer hose; if they're really dirty, use coil cleaner and a soft brush. Be careful not to bend the fins as you clean.Trim any limbs away from the unit so you have at least a 2-foot clearing. Have a look at the hoses that conduct the refrigerant. If anything looks worn, let your HVAC tech know when you schedule your annual spring maintenance visitIndoors, change the air filter. Always buy the right size; never tforce the wrong size filter into the unit.You can also have a look at the evaporator coils, inspecting them for dirt or mold. If you know where the condensate pan is, inspect it for holes, and for sludge that might stop up the condensate drain.Adding your HVAC system to your spring cleaning list will help ensure the parts last longer. Contact Air Assurance of Broken Arrow for more information.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC cleaning and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Can Indoor Humidity Affect Your Energy Bills?

The level of indoor humidity in your home makes a big difference in your comfort and it will affect your energy bills. Humidity drives the “feels like" temperature, which is how your body perceives it versus the actual temperature as measured on a thermometer. The amount of water vapor in the air makes people feel warmer or cooler, regardless of the temperature.Humans use evaporation to cool their bodies and when there’s less humidity in the air, water evaporates faster. When the humidity is higher, evaporation occurs more slowly. You’re much more likely to be comfortable on a hot day with low humidity compared to a warm day with high humidity.

Managing Humidity in the Home

Ideal indoor humidity levels range between 30 and 50 percent year-round. The most efficient way to manage humidity includes central humidifiers and dehumidifiers. They attach to the air handler and will either increase or lower water vapor levels.Both operate automatically using humidistats, similar to thermostats, to keep humidity levels comfortable and healthy throughout the home. These systems require little maintenance and use less energy than using portable humidifiers or dehumidifiers.You can also achieve lower humidity in the summer by:

• Using kitchen and bathroom ventilation fans to remove excess water vapor.

• Running ceiling fans to increase comfort by evaporating skin moisture faster, although they won’t change the air temperature.

• Verifying the clothes dryer vents outdoors.

• Using dehumidifiers in unconditioned basements.

Increase humidity in the winter by avoiding the use of the kitchen and bathroom fans and supplementing it with indoor plants, simmering water on the stove, or using portable humidifiers or vaporizers.

The Benefits

The primary benefits of managing humidity levels are greater health and comfort along with lower cooling and heating bills. In the summer, lowering the level reduces cooling costs and in the winter, increasing it trims heating bills. Your health and that of your home also improve when the humidity stays between the recommended ranges.To learn more about indoor humidity and maintaining a healthy level, contact the pros at Air Assurance, providing HVAC services for the Broken Arrow region.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about humidity and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

How to Eliminate Odors in Your HVAC System

The air that flows from your HVAC registers should make your home more comfortable. When certain conditions exist, though, that airflow can also spread bad odors throughout the house. Eliminating odors wafting from your HVAC system air vents is not only crucial for your comfort, but it can help you avoid possible health and safety risks as well.

Why Do Unpleasant HVAC Odors Occur?

Your conditioned air can carry various kinds of disagreeable scents for a number of reasons. Here are some common types of HVAC odors and where they typically originate, as well as advice on the best way to eliminate them.

• Chemical fumes. Off-gassing VOCs and hazardous vapors from common household chemical can stay trapped in your indoor air supply if your home is tightly constructed and well-sealed for efficiency. To achieve a fresher, healthier indoor air quality, talk to your HVAC pro about effective solutions like installing a ventilator or adding a whole-house air cleaner to your HVAC system.

• “Burnt” electrical odors. A burnt-wiring smell is usually a telltale warning that an electrical component like a fan motor or circuit board is overheating. To avert the danger of a fire, shut off the HVAC system via its breaker in the main electrical panel, then contact your HVAC professional for help.

• Acetone-like vapors. If your conditioned air carries an odor that reminds you of nail polish remover, there's likely a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system. Your HVAC technician will need to locate and fix the leak, then top off the system's refrigerant level to prevent damage to key components like the compressor.

• “Dirty-sock” or musty smells. These kinds of pungent odors are especially unpleasant, and they're the result of algae, bacteria, mold or mildew growth within your HVAC system. The underlying cause may be debris/dampness in the ducts, a clogged cooling coil or air filter, or a blockage in the condensate drain lines. A trained technician can pinpoint the source and clean the component to eliminate the odor.

For more advice or help eliminating odors in your Broken Arrow home's HVAC system, contact us at Air Assurance.