Melbourne, FL Air Conditioning Repair FAQ: Detecting a Refrigerant Leak

May 16th, 2013

The refrigerant that circulates through your compressor and coils needs to remain at the correct level if your air conditioner is to be effective and energy efficient. This is known as its “charge.” If it falls below this level, then it can lead to various problems and even system breakdown. That’s the last thing you want to have to deal with during the long hot summer. But it’s not always so simple to detect that you have a leak in the first place. In this post, we’d like to review some leak detection methods, as well as some symptoms of low refrigerant. If you’re concerned about the effectiveness of your cooling system, then call Next Generation for air conditioning repair in Melbourne, FL  today!

Low levels of refrigerant are caused by equipment failure, poor installation, or leaks. The last cause is the most common, and it can itself be caused by corrosion, physical damage, or even stress caused by temperature and pressure fluctuations. If you have inadequate cooling in your home, or you notice a spike in your energy bills, it could mean that your system is attempting to compensate for the low level of refrigerant circulating through your air conditioner. It may be possible to hear a subtle hissing sound, which indicates that your gaseous refrigerant is leaking out of your coils.

There are numerous leak detection methods available, and your local technician will choose the most efficient and effective one to check for refrigerant leaks in your system. Hand-held electronic devices as well as fixed system monitors are among the cleanest and fastest methods available. These devices are able to identify the CFCs, HCFCs as well as HFCs as they emit from refrigerant leaks. There are also infrared devices, and those using charged electrodes and heated diodes to find leaks. Older methods include using bubbling liquid to find specific leakage points, as well as the dye injection method.

If you’re concerned about the adequacy of your cooling system, or think you might have low refrigerant levels, call for Melbourne, FL air conditioning repair service from Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today.

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Melbourne, FL Air Conditioning Tip: Why Insulation Is Important in the Summer

May 6th, 2013

We often don’t think much of the insulation that runs throughout our walls, floors, and ceilings during the summer. After all, we mostly associate insulation with keeping warm air inside our home, which is not exactly the goal of air conditioning. But insulation is important during the summer heat and humidity. The truth is that insulation is a thermal barrier that regulates the temperature of our home by keeping hot air out as much as it keeps cool air in. For more information about how to improve your Melbourne, FL air conditioning system, call the experts at Next Generation Air & Heat today!

  • Energy efficiency: During the long hot summer, you need your AC not only to perform, but to be energy efficient as well. Making sure that your home is well insulated ensures that your air conditioner’s cooling output will not simply be immediately lost by passing through the exterior walls. Efficiency measures the ratio of cooling output versus electrical energy input, and every AC manufactured and sold in the US has a particular SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating that estimates its energy efficiency during the cooling season. But this is only an estimate and will mean nothing in practice if your home is not insulated properly.
  • Performance: You need your Melbourne, FL air conditioner to perform, whether it’s central air or a ductless mini split system. Considering how hot and humid it gets here, you need to do everything you can to ensure that your AC is able to do its job. While a good system alone is a great start to reliable performance, taking care of other aspects of the cooling process, such as the insulation of your home, is just as critical.
  • Decreased wear and tear: If your AC has to constantly strain to produce enough cool air for your home because much of it goes through the roof or exterior walls, then you are causing unnecessary additional wear and tear on your AC unit. Insulation can help to alleviate the pressure you place on your AC every summer.

For more information about how insulation can improve your comfort during the summer, call the Melbourne, FL air conditioning experts at Next Generation today!

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Melbourne, FL Air Conditioning FAQ: What is a Condenser?

April 29th, 2013

Although you may rely heavily on the efficiency and effective performance of our air conditioners in Melbourne, FL, you may not be entirely sure how they operate, or what the various components do to keep you cool even during the hottest days of the year. One of the questions we often get from customers who are curious about their AC systems is, “What is a condenser?” Because of the importance of its role in the cooling cycle, we’d like to devote this post to explaining the basics of the condenser and its role in the cooling process.

  • What it is: An air conditioner condenser is one of two coils within the system. It resides in the weatherized outdoor unit, and surrounds the compressor motor, which is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant. The condenser is assisted by a vertical exhaust fan, which draws air through its coils.
  • What it does: The purpose of the condenser coil is to condense the refrigerant. As the refrigerant leaves the evaporator coil, it is in a gaseous state. The compressor takes this low-pressure gas and turns it into a very hot and high-pressure gas. The point of this is to raise the temperature to such a degree that the thermal energy stored in the refrigerant would disperse into the outside air. The refrigerant then condenses within the coils, turning back into a liquid and moving back towards the evaporator coil to cool another round of air.
  • Potential issues: Because it resides outdoors, the condenser coil is subject to certain risks of physical damage, which can be caused by vermin, vegetation, or accidents around the outdoor property of your home. It also tends to accumulate dust and other particulates, which can be harmful to normal operation. Your condenser needs to be able to dissipate heat into the outdoor air in order to bring the temperature of the refrigerant back down. If there is anything wrong with it, the refrigerant cycle will become impaired.

We hope you found this brief guide to the condenser useful. For more information about your AC and how it works, or to schedule a Melbourne, FL air conditioning service, call Next Generation Air & Heat today.

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Air Conditioning in Melbourne, FL Tip: Reasons Why My AC Won’t Turn On

April 22nd, 2013

Our air conditioning systems in Melbourne, FL combat the heat and humidity on a daily basis. We need to make sure that they are maintained professionally and carefully to ensure that they continue to provide efficient and effective cooling for our homes. However, there are times during the service life of your AC when it needs professional repair. One of the most frustrating problems is when your AC simply won’t turn on, and this post will go over possible causes of this problem. If you need professional air conditioning repair in Melbourne, FL, call the experts at Next Generation Air & Heat today! 

  • Thermostat fault: First, make sure that your thermostat is properly set and that it’s calling for cool air. If nothing happens when you set it, there may be a connectivity issue with your thermostat. It it’s wired, there may be a damaged connection somewhere in the line between your thermostat and the AC. If it’s wireless, then the problem may be with the location of the thermostat. Metal walls can create interference between the AC and the thermostat so make sure that this is not an issue by consulting with a professional.
  • Electrical issue: Check to make sure that your AC has not blown a fuse, or tripped the circuit breaker. If it hasn’t, then there may be another type of electrical issue that requires professional assistance. One of the electrical supply lines may have been damaged, for example. It’s important that any electrical problems be examined by a qualified professional.
  • Blower motor broken: The fan motor in your air handler may be broken if your AC won’t turn on. The blower is responsible for pushing cool air throughout your ductwork, but if it has overheated, or one of its mechanical parts is damaged, then the system may not turn on.

There is a variety of things that can go wrong with your air conditioning system during the long hot summer. During the cooling season, your AC system is under a lot of stress and strain. Make sure you take care of any repairs quickly before the summer hits. For air conditioning in Melbourne, FL, call Next Generation Air & Heat today! 

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How Ductwork Affects Air Conditioning in Melbourne, FL

April 15th, 2013

If you have a forced-air distribution system such as central air, then you rely on your ductwork to extract the warm air from inside the home and to circulate cool air throughout your living space. The importance of ductwork can hardly be underestimated. If they are in poor condition, they can be responsible for up to 30% of energy loss; this is a startling amount considering how much use your AC gets during the long hot Florida summer.  To learn more about ductwork affects your air conditioning in Melbourne, FL, call the experts at Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today!

Let’s take a look at some ways your ductwork affects your air conditioning. Here are some common problems with ductwork that reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of your home cooling system:

  • Air leaks. Air leaks in your ducts cause air flow problems. No matter how well your ductwork was installed, if it is old and has undergone significant wear and tear over the years, it may have developed a few cracks, or loose-fitting connections. Even the most minor air leaks can disrupt your cooling. You may be paying to cool the inside of your walls or attic.  
  • Poor installation. If you bought a home that already had ductwork installed, then you may have not been able to choose who installed the ducts. Many duct problems arise as a result of poor installation. They may have been crimped or pinched during the process, or as a result of nearby home construction, and this cannot only significantly reduce your airflow and energy efficiency, it can also lead to indoor air quality issues.

For more information about how ductwork affects your cooling system, or to schedule duct cleaning, contact the Melbourne, FL air conditioning experts at Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today!  

 

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Common Problems with Air Conditioning in Melbourne, FL

April 8th, 2013

As the temperature begins to rise in Melbourne, FL, homeowners throughout the area are looking for ways to improve their cooling systems. No matter what the age, condition, or make of your air conditioner, at some point in its lifespan, it may require repair. While not all air conditioning systems are alike, there are some common problems that arise. We’d like to inform you about several such issues, so that you can readily identify them. Once you know your AC has a problem, you can seek the expert care of a technician. For air conditioning repair in Melbourne, FL, call Next Generation today! 

While the causes of these common problems are by no means straightforward, your local professional will be able to rapidly diagnose and recommend a solution. Let’s take a look:

  • Inadequate cooling: If your AC won’t cool adequately, it can be incredibly frustrating. After all, energy costs being what they are, we want to make sure that we are getting the most from our cooling systems. There are a few different causes of this problem, including a clogged air filter or a duct leak. Both of these can negatively impact the passage of cool air into the home.
  • AC won’t turn on: More often than not, this is an electrical problem. Depending on the condition of your electrical system, you may have a wiring malfunction somewhere. Alternatively, you may have only tripped the circuit breaker or blown a fuse, both of which, however, can indicate an inadequate supply of electrical power to your unit. This can also indicate a problem with the thermostat. It may need to be calibrated or may have been improperly installed.
  • Frozen coil: When cold air gets trapped within the air handler with nowhere to go, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze up. As with any material attached to the surface of your AC coils, frost can significantly impact the effectiveness and efficiency of your air conditioning system. This is often due to a clogged air filter, or a blower malfunction.

These are by no means the only problems that can occur with your AC system, but they are among the most common. For Melbourne, FL air conditioning repair, call Next Generation today! 

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Air Conditioning Repair in Melbourne, FL: Signs Your AC is in Trouble

April 1st, 2013

All air conditioning systems will experience operational problems at some point along the line. While a quality product, a professional installation and routine AC maintenance can help minimize these problems, it is impossible to completely eliminate them. When you run into trouble with your home cooling system it is important that you schedule air conditioning repair as soon as possible. In order to do so you must know some of the basic warning signs indicating a problem with your AC.

Here are some of the common warning signs that you need to schedule air conditioning repair in Melbourne, FL. Contact Next Generation Air & Heat for more information.

One common sign of trouble with your air conditioner is a sudden increase in the cost of operating your system. If you have not made any real alterations to your home cooling habits then your air conditioning costs should not fluctuate too much. If it suddenly costs much more to keep your home cool and comfortable then there is likely a problem that requires professional air conditioning repair. A qualified professional will be able to inspect your system and tell you for sure.

Take notice of any general decline in the performance of your air conditioning system as well. The development of warm spots throughout your home or uneven cooling may result from a number of different causes. There may be a mechanical problem the AC itself, or your ductwork may be compromised in some way. In either case, the sooner the necessary air conditioning repair is made the less likely serious damage to your system is to occur. Even problems that seem very minor, like strange noises during operation, may indicate a more major problem in development. Your comfort is too important to take chances with. Call today to schedule air conditioning repair in Melbourne.

Do not suffer through a long, uncomfortable summer due to air conditioning troubles. Call the Melbourne, FL air conditioning repair pros at Next Generation Air & Heat. We’ll help you keep your home comfortable this cooling season.

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Melbourne, FL Air Conditioning Installation FAQ

March 25th, 2013

Whether you’re purchasing an air conditioner for you new home or a replacement for your existing system, you probably have many questions. The first step is hiring a professional Melbourne, FL  air conditioning technician who you trust to give you good recommendations that fit your home and your budget. There are a lot of cooling options on the market today, and you need to select one that’s right for your home and your cooling needs. There’s no substitute for professional consultation. For exceptional air conditioning installation in Melbourne, FL, call Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today!

Let’s take a look at some common questions we encounter during air conditioning consultations:

  • Is ductwork necessary? Well, that depends. If you don’t already have ductwork, then you should probably consider installing a ductless mini split system. They are highly efficient, are very quiet, and tend to avoid some of the disadvantages of ductwork, such as cooling loss and indoor air quality. They also offer more versatility than your average central air unit does. You can have up to four air handlers throughout your home for every outdoor unit, which allows you to customize your indoor climate. That said, if you already have ducts, today’s central air units are highly efficient and cost-effective units in their own right.
  • What’s the best air conditioning system? Frankly, every system has its advantages and disadvantages, and it all comes to your particular needs. While ductless mini split systems offer excellent cooling, they also tend to require more upfront investment. It all depends upon what you want, your budget, and the structure of your home.
  • What can I do to maintain my air conditioner? We’re glad you asked! Following up your air conditioning installation with routine maintenance is a great way to preserve the effectiveness of your AC. Also, remember to change your air filter frequently during the cooling season to maximize your efficiency and indoor air quality, as well as to prevent damages.

We hope these helped to address some of your concerns. For air conditioning installation in Melbourne, FL, call the experts at Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today! 

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Melbourne, FL Air Conditioning Guide: Benefits of AC Maintenance

March 18th, 2013

When summer hits in Melbourne, FL, you want to be confident in your air conditioner. With temperatures well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the cooling season, homeowners need to know that they can depend upon their AC systems to provide effective and efficient performance. This gives you peace of mind and the comfort you and your family deserve. But maintaining air conditioners can be tricky and requires constant care. That’s where the Next Generation professionals come in. We’d like to show you the benefits of AC maintenance in Melbourne, FL. Call us today!

  • Avoid downtime. Staying on top of AC maintenance will help you prevent your AC from breaking down during the hottest times of the year. Routine professional maintenance services allow you to rest assured that your system is being taken care of, and if problems arise, an AC technician is not far away.
  • Energy-efficiency. You can significantly improve your energy-efficiency by routine maintenance. Cleaning and replacing air filters, lubricating parts as well as a general inspection are just a few of the things that ensure your system always runs to the best of its ability. Happily, maximizing energy translates to cost savings. The more efficient your system is, the lower your energy costs. Maintaining your AC is the simplest and most cost-effective way to do this.
  • Extend the life of your AC. Regular maintenance is not just about present day energy efficiency. It’s also about protecting your investment. As with any other machine, routine inspection and cleaning can help you get the most out of your AC. Whether you’ve had your system for 5 years or 5 months, take the necessary preventive steps now to ensure that you’ll stay cool for the summers to come.
  • Peace of mind. This is a “soft” benefit that many homeowners overlook. We know that you work hard all year to maintain your home comfort. When something goes wrong, it can be stressful and frustrating. Allowing an air conditioning pro to inspect and clean your system on a regular basis can help you to reduce stress. You have enough to worry about. Let us help you.

Homeowners in need of AC maintenance in Melbourne, FL could benefit from our Priority Savings Club, which entitles you to biannual precision tune-ups, priority service, as well as a 20% discount on all service repairs. Give Next Generation Air & Heat a call today! 

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Tips for Efficient Air Conditioning in Melbourne, FL this Summer

March 11th, 2013

Whatever type of home cooling system you have—whether it’s a heat pump, central air, ductless mini split, or packaged unit—it’s important to make sure that you maximize the efficiency of your air conditioner to provide efficient cooling all summer long. Inspections, cleaning, tune-ups, and repair are all necessary duties of securing the longevity of your air conditioning. After all, an AC unit is a big investment, so don’t let your money fly out the window; call the Melbourne, FL air conditioning efficiency experts at Next Generation Air & Heat Inc. today!

Here are some tips to make sure you get the most out of your air conditioner this cooling season:

  • Clean your air filters. Make sure you have new air filters for this summer, especially if you haven’t replaced them for some time. While air filters are designed to make sure your home has clean indoor air, filters that are clogged or dirty with dust, pollen and other debris can actually impede airflow. This causes your air conditioner to work harder, and therefore significantly reduces your energy-efficiency.
  • Clean your ductwork. In forced air cooling systems, ductwork is necessary to circulate the conditioned air throughout your home. But over time, ductwork can accumulate dust and allergens, and this can cause unpleasant odors and even pose a health risk. Even a thin layer of debris in your ductwork can significantly impact the efficiency with which your air travels through the system. If you sense a stale or musty odor in your home, or see dust or mold on vents and diffusers, you may find that a duct cleaning could help your home achieve a higher level of comfort and efficiency.
  • Upgrade your system. Unimpressed with the efficiency of your current AC system? Consider upgrading to a new model with a high SEER rating; it could save you money in the long run. Also, switching to a highly energy-efficient ductless mini split allows you to cool your home without extensive ductwork.

We hope these tips have been useful to you. You can always call the Melbourne, FL efficient air conditioning experts at Next Generation Air & Heat, Inc. if you have further questions.

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