Winter HVAC Troubleshooting Tips for Your Unit

furnace not heating - tulsa ok

Your HVAC system helps your Broken Arrow home stay warm and cozy all through the winter. When problems with your HVAC system occur, you could end up without heat. Doing some winter HVAC troubleshooting can help you figure out what’s wrong and get your heat working again. In some cases, though, you’ll need to rely on HVAC technicians to handle repairs. These are some of the more common issues HVAC systems can have during winter that can benefit from winter HVAC troubleshooting.

Uneven Heating

When some areas or rooms in your home feel colder than others, you might have an air leak or a problem with the blower motor. If the blower motor isn’t working properly, this can result in uneven heating in your home. Air leaks around windows and doors can allow outdoor air inside, making certain rooms feel colder. A clogged or dirty HVAC filter can also lead to uneven heating. You can seal gaps around doors and windows to stop air leaks and replace your HVAC filter with a clean one. HVAC technicians can repair the blower motor if needed.

Unlit Pilot Light

If your gas or propane furnace isn’t turning on, check the pilot light. The flame sensor on your furnace might be damaged or dirty, which can cause the pilot light to go out or not ignite when your heating system turns on. HVAC technicians can clean or replace the flame sensor as needed in order to get your pilot light working again.

Frozen Coils and Pipes

Bitterly cold temperatures can cause water to freeze inside coils and pipes, which can prevent your heating system from working. If you think you have frozen water in your pipes or coils, turn your water off and have professional HVAC repairs done. Turning off your water can help reduce the risk of having frozen pipes or coils burst, which causes an even bigger (and messier) problem. These are all winter HVAC troubleshooting moves that can come in very handy.

If you need help with winter HVAC troubleshooting, please contact Air Assurance. We can make HVAC repairs if needed in order to keep your Broken Arrow home warm.

What You Should Expect — and Not Expect — From HVAC Contracts

HVAC contracts are a service plan that provides regular ongoing service for your home’s HVAC system by trained professionals. Often these types of service contracts are offered when you have a new HVAC unit installed. Before signing an HVAC service contract, you’ll want to know what they offer and if it's right for you.

Why You Would Want an HVAC Contract

There are many reasons homeowners choose to purchase an HVAC contract. The features these HVAC contracts can include are regular tuneups, inspections, seasonal maintenance (such as for summer and winter), emergency services, part discounts, and priority for when you need repairs or replacement. Many HVAC contracts can also include discounts for parts and services, as well as other perks. A key benefit of a service contract is that your HVAC system is always cared for, ensuring better performance and the ability to catch any maintenance needs before they become a larger problem. In addition, in emergencies, a service contract can reduce costs and speed up the repair process.

When HVAC Contracts Are Not For You

Before purchasing an HVAC contract, it is important to know what it isn’t. Service contracts are not an all-in-one solution. The type of features they offer can vary, so be sure to read them carefully before signing up. Also, a service contract does have a yearly cost and, in some cases, this may not add up to the out-of-pocket costs for the service you receive in a given year. Much like insurance, a service contract can be highly useful for dealing with emergencies and more than pay for itself; however, these events are often not predictable. 

When You Need HVAC Service and Repair

At Air Assurance, we proudly serve residents of Broken Arrow and nearby communities with all their HVAC needs. No matter if you need servicing, repair, or a full HVAC system installation, we can assist. Contact us today to learn more. We welcome your business.

What HVAC Cleaning Solutions Can You Use and Not Use on HVAC Equipment?

Cleaning is an integral part of HVAC maintenance. It helps reduce airborne particles that can affect your health and your HVAC system, and it can improve energy efficiency. The right cleaning products and techniques are essential to the proper cleaning of HVAC equipment. Let's explore effective HVAC cleaning solutions.

Agitation

Cleaning an HVAC system requires the removal of dirt, dust layers, and other sources of contamination. Agitation devices break contaminants loose from the surfaces within your heating and cooling system. These devices include:

• Rotating brushes on extendable poles

• Air whips

• Compressed air nozzles

You can also achieve agitation through contact vacuuming or hand brushing.

Disinfection with HVAC Cleaning Solutions

Over time, your HVAC equipment can become an incubator for microbes like mold, fungi, yeast, and bacteria. Antimicrobial chemicals like sanitizers, deodorants, and disinfectants are applied to the nonporous surfaces within your HVAC system to tackle antimicrobial contamination and control odors. However, only chemicals that have been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) should be used.

Antimicrobial products should only be used after the completion of mechanical surface cleaning. The products can be applied through several methods, such as spray disinfection, cool mist disinfection, and aerosol disinfection.

Spray disinfection involves spraying an antimicrobial chemical directly onto surfaces from a short distance. Cool-mist disinfection involves the use of smaller spray droplets. The spray mist penetrates farther around obstacles and curves. In aerosol disinfection, the antimicrobial chemical is atomized into smaller droplets than those cool-mist disinfection uses. It offers excellent surface coverage but has a higher susceptibility to soiling.

While using HVAC cleaning solutions isn't difficult, it's usually fairly labor-intensive. You may have to create service openings to clean the inside parts and then close the openings after you've finished cleaning. This requires professional skills and craftsmanship.

Having your HVAC equipment cleaned properly will protect your family's health and your heating and cooling system. If you need HVAC maintenance using top-quality HVAC cleaning solutions in the Broken Arrow area, don't hesitate to contact the certified technicians at Air Assurance.

What Are the First Steps in Getting Emergency AC Service?

At some point in time, you're likely to experience an air-conditioning issue during the summer. But how will you know if the problem at hand requires routine repair service or emergency AC service? Here's a quick guide to identifying and handling emergency AC service.

The Warning Signs

Your air conditioner will exhibit certain indicators before it breaks down and requires emergency repair. If you catch the following signs and fix them, you'll avoid having to schedule an emergency repair:

• The system operates for a short while, then won't turn on for several hours. This could be due to setting your thermostat too low, having low refrigerant levels, or a clogged drain. If raising the thermostat by five degrees doesn't solve the issue, schedule an AC service call.

• Weak airflow from the vents. This could be due to a dirty air filter. If replacing the filter doesn't solve the issue, you probably have an obstruction inside the vents. You'll need an HVAC company to check them.

• The system is running but isn't blowing cool air. A coolant leak or dirty intake vents on the outdoor unit's side may be to blame. It's best to have the problem fixed as soon as possible to prevent an unexpected system breakdown.

• The thermostat is on but the air conditioner remains off. You may need to reset the breaker for your outdoor unit to fix this issue. If that doesn't work, you may have an electrical problem. You'll need to call in a professional for emergency AC service.

Handling Emergency AC Service

Suppose you didn't notice these warning signs early enough and your air conditioner stops running unexpectedly. In that case, you should schedule an emergency repair service if you have pets, children, or elderly parents in your house. It can be very difficult for animals, the elderly, and children to cope with being stuck in a sweltering home.

As you wait for the HVAC professionals, you can do the following to stay cool:

• Keep your windows covered

• Run your ceiling fans

• Don't cook indoors, and keep your electronics off to avoid generating additional heat

• Go to the mall, library, a 24-hour diner, or a neighbor's home that has air conditioning

Avoid ignoring A/C problems, as they could lead to costly repairs or even premature system replacement. If you need routine or emergency AC service in the Broken Arrow area, contact Air Assurance.

What Would Require an AC Hose Repair?

You may be surprised that one of the most frequent, damaging, and expensive AC fixes is an AC hose repair or a condensate line repair. What often happens is the AC hose becomes clogged or the pump fails, and then water spills over inside the home. This water could damage ceilings, walls, flooring, and other areas where the AC is located. To help prevent that from happening to you, we've put together common reasons for an AC hose repair and fixes for you to keep handy.

How an AC Condensate Hose Works

Your central AC system is designed to keep your home cool by removing heat energy from circulating air. During this process, moisture and humidity are also removed. This moisture collects on a coil and drips into a condensate pan. The condensate flows into a hose or pipe. The hose may lead to a pump, where the water is pumped out of your home, or the hose may lead outside and drain the water out by gravity. When something goes wrong with either process, you need AC hose repair.

Nesting Place

You don't use your AC all year long. During the months that it's not in use, the AC hose makes a perfect place for bugs and tiny critters to nest. Nests and other debris can cause a blockage in the AC hose, which would require an AC hose repair by your HVAC technician. The hose needs to be blown or sucked out to clear the line.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

Another problem that would require an AC hose repair is a problem with the condensate pump. The condensate pump should be located by the indoor AC unit. There is probably a 1-inch PVC pipe extending into the pump to drip condensate. Check the pump to see if it is cracked and leaking water. Next, if the pump is full and not working, it's best to replace the pump. Turn off your AC and call your technician.

If you need professional HVAC assistance with an AC hose repair in your Broken Arrow-area home, please contact the pros at Air Assurance!

The Worst Problems That Come from DIY HVAC Maintenance

DIY home improvement projects can help you feel productive, kill time, and save money. However, when it comes to your HVAC system, it's best to not take matters into your own hands. Here are some of the dangers that come with DIY HVAC projects.

Safety Issues

You can get injured while attempting DIY HVAC maintenance. HVAC systems require plenty of voltage to run. If you're not careful, this voltage can seriously harm you. Mishandling a gas furnace during maintenance can lead to gas leaks, which can cause explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Air conditioners contain refrigerants, which pose health risks. You should never recharge refrigerant on your own, because doing so is extremely dangerous. What's more, only licensed professionals can legally handle systems with refrigerants. Therefore, AC maintenance checks are best left to professionals. During annual maintenance, your HVAC contractor will check the refrigerant and recharge your system if necessary.

A Waste of Money

HVAC repairs require special tools and knowledge. When trying to fix your HVAC system yourself, you could easily cause more damage. As a result, you may have to replace more parts, leading to costlier repairs. Even worse, you could lose the entire system and require premature replacement. Also, if you get hurt while doing DIY HVAC maintenance, you may end up with a mountain of medical bills.

Conducting a DIY HVAC project in a bid to try to save a bit of money could end up with your bank account taking a severe hit. It's safer and more affordable to use professional help.

Loss of Warranty

HVAC manufacturers usually require professional repairs and maintenance to keep their warranties in effect. DIY HVAC maintenance and repairs can lead to the loss of warranty. And don't forget that every fault that a potential buyerfinds in your house will lower the price.

Opting to hire a professional HVAC technician rather than carrying out DIY HVAC maintenance is vital to both your family's and your HVAC system's well-being. If you need quality HVAC services and equipment from an award-winning company in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance.

Worry Free AC Replacement Estimates, No Money Down - Air Assurance

Air Assurance offer many options when it comes to replacing your heating and air conditioning system. We offer different types of technology from single stage heat and cool units to full variable speed and modulating systems. And now, which ever option you feel is best for your home….it can come Worry Free. Air Assurance’s Advantage Plan offers many benefits including:

• No down payment.

• Professional Workmanship .

• 24/7 emergency service

• No repair charge - Labor*

• No diagnostic charges - Parts*

• No diagnostic fee

• Includes routine maintenance

What happens today if your equipment breaks down?

Upkeep on your heating and air conditioning system can get expensive, especially as it ages. If your equipment breaks down today, without the Worry Free plan from Air Assurance you are in the hook for all the associated costs. Learn more about our worry free or hassle free air conditioning, heating and water heater plans here Air Assurance Worry Free Plans or contact Air Assurance today. Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!      

How to Make Sure Your HVAC Warranty Works for You

An HVAC warranty will protect you from expensive repair bills during an HVAC crisis — but only if you know what you're getting in the warranty and how to keep it working for you. Keep reading to learn more about HVAC warranties.

Types of HVAC Warranties

Generally, there are three types of HVAC warranties:

• Manufacturer warranty. This warranty is provided by the manufacturer of your HVAC equipment. It covers the cost of repairing or replacing parts that malfunction during the coverage period. You should choose a manufacturer that offers a warranty that lasts throughout the majority of the system's expected life span.

• Installation warranty. It covers failure resulting from improper installation. The company that installed your HVAC system or unit provides this warranty. Reputable companies offer an installation warranty of at least 12 months.

• Extended warranty. This warranty comes into effect after your standard warranty period expires. It usually adds five to 10 years to labor or parts coverage.

How to Keep Your HVAC Warranty

It's crucial for you to know how to keep your HVAC warranty intact. Some simple, innocent errors could void your entire warranty and leave you with major out-of-pocket expenses down the road.

• Registration. You should register your warranty with your HVAC system's manufacturer within the required time. If you fail to do so, you'll get the base coverage, which lasts a significantly shorter time than the full coverage.

• Installation. Hire a licensed, certified HVAC professional to install or repair your unit. Your manufacturer may not honor your warranty if you don't hire a professional company.

• Off-label repairs. Using off-label components during repairs will void your warranty. Insist that the repairs done contain the parts specified by your manufacturer.

• Maintenance. Failing to schedule professional maintenance and provide proof of the services may result in the loss of your warranty. An excellent way to prove regular maintenance is by relying on the routine maintenance services of a reputable HVAC company.

Always check the fine details of your HVAC warranty, and don't be afraid to ask questions if you don't understand something. If you live in theBroken Arrowarea, schedule the next repair or maintenance visit with us atAir Assurance. We offer our customers an Extended Service Plan that guarantees they get a written record of the services performed on their system and extended warranties on the systems we install.

Does Winter Require Specific HVAC Checks That You Don't Need in Warm Weather?

As temperatures drop in Broken Arrow, you'll want to turn the heat higher and higher. But how sure are you that your furnace will be ready to face the significant challenges that winter poses? Be sure to carry out these winter HVAC checks to keep your heating system in tiptop condition all through the winter.

Check the Thermostat

Your thermostat and HVAC system work as a team. One can't operate effectively if the other is slacking. Your thermostat should have fresh batteries and be set appropriately to meet your comfort needs. Save energy by setting it to a lower temperature when you're at work or asleep.

Ensure There's Adequate Insulation

Without enough insulation, your home will suffer heat loss. As a result, your furnace will run overtime to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, wasting energy and money. Check for adequate insulation in your attic and around your ducts. If you're unsure of your home's insulation needs, contact an HVAC technician for assistance with winter HVAC checks.

Replace Your Air Filter

If you haven't changed a dirty filter in a while, your furnace will be forced to run harder than necessary. This will increase your energy bills. Clean or change your filter at least once a month to prevent it from being clogged with dust and debris.

Schedule a Heating-System Tuneup

Your furnace won't be able to handle whatever winter brings if it's not working correctly. For that reason, you should schedule an inspection of your heating system as part of your winter HVAC checks. During the tuneup, your technician will inspect your system and uncover any potential issues that need to be addressed. He or she will also clean and optimize your system.

Performing these winter HVAC checks will get your system ready for the colder months and help cut your heating costs. If you need to schedule furnace repair or maintenance in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance. We've served the heating and cooling needs of our satisfied residential and commercial clients since 1985.

Which HVAC Repairs Are Most Urgent?

What’s the difference between routine fixes and urgent HVAC repairs? Some cooling and heating issues are minor nuisances that can be resolved whenever it’s convenient. On the other hand, certain circumstances demand prompt attention by a qualified HVAC technician ASAP. 

Delaying proper service may compromise home safety as well as inflict costly damage on expensive HVAC components. The bottom line is this: When certain circumstances occur, urgent HVAC repairs shouldn’t be postponed. Here are some signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Natural Gas Leakage

The odor of natural gas in the house is always an emergency. If the smell seems to originate from the furnace area or is coming from heating vents in rooms, go to the thermostat and turn off the furnace immediately. Get all occupants out of the house and call 911 or the gas company. Once qualified emergency responders are on the scene, call your HVAC contractor and report the situation. 

Air Conditioner Short-Cycling

If you notice the AC turning on and then turning off again almost immediately, consider it a warning sign that may require urgent HVAC repairs to prevent costly damage. Short-cycling may be a simple matter of a clogged air filter. However, it’s also a symptom of critical issues like a refrigerant leak or a compressor motor running too hot. Shut off the AC at the thermostat to prevent further damage and contact your HVAC contractor for emergency service.

Furnace Auto-Shutdown

A heating system turning itself off automatically is usually indicative of a furnace safety issue that warrants urgent HVAC repairs. The unit may be overheating dangerously and triggering a high-limit shutdown switch. An airflow blockage somewhere in the system may also generate excess heat and cause a shutdown. Don’t continue restarting the furnace. Instead, call for qualified HVAC service right away.

Unexplained Cost Increases

If monthly gas or electric bills suddenly spike and there's no obvious explanation (like rate hikes), don't just keep paying higher bills. Get the system checked out and have any urgent HVAC repairs made now, before more unnecessary expense is incurred.

For qualified professional service when urgent HVAC repairs are needed (and any time), contact Air Assurance.

What Warranty Terms Should You Look for When Buying HVAC Equipment?

HVAC warranty terms vary, so you shouldn't take them for granted when making HVAC purchase decisions. You'll only get the peace of mind that a warranty should provide if the applicable terms and coverage details are a good value for you. Here's a quick primer on the warranty terms you should look for when replacing your heating and cooling equipment.

Equipment Warranty

Generally, HVAC warranties can be classified into equipment and labor warranties. Equipment warranties are provided by the manufacturers and cover failures or malfunctions related to faulty parts.

HVAC equipment manufacturers offer standard and base equipment warranties. You'll get a standard warranty if you register your new equipment within the required time (typically within 60 to 90 days of installation). The base warranty comes into effect if you fail to register your system. It's much shorter than the standard coverage.

When buying an HVAC system, make sure you'll get at least a 10-year warranty once you register the system with the manufacturer.

Labor Warranty

A labor warranty is provided by the HVAC contractor that installs your new equipment. It's greatly important because HVAC performance depends heavily on whether the equipment was installed correctly. Generally, contractors offer labor warranties and extend them if you sign up for their service agreement.

Labor-warranty terms vary widely from one contractor to another. Competent companies that offer high-quality installations offer better labor warranties than those that aren't confident in their services. An honest company with certified technicians shouldn't have a problem providing you a labor warranty that lasts up to 10 years, especially if you enroll in a maintenance agreement.

While labor HVAC warranty terms are usually the greatest source of headaches, equipment warranties can also be nerve-racking, as they can be voided if a system isn't installed according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Therefore, work with a local contractor who has a proven track record of HVAC installations and offers an excellent labor warranty. If you need HVAC installation, repair, or maintenance from the top-rated company in the Broken Arrow area, contact Air Assurance. We offer Planned Maintenance that comes with a lifetime warranty on most repairs and extended labor warranties.

Reasons for Bi-Annual HVAC Tuneups

Most homeowners, if they schedule an HVAC tuneup at all, tend to go for just one appointment a year. Is that enough? Not really, because the equipment that you use in the fall and spring differs considerably.

In the fall, you will use the heating equipment, which will be mostly enclosed in an indoor cabinet with the air handler. In the springtime, you will be using the outdoor condenser and compressor, along with the indoor air handler, evaporator coils, and condensate drain. So depending on the season, your technician needs to inspect one or the other side of the HVAC.

During the year, since you last had your equipment checked, parts may have become worn and could be on the verge of failing. Without a biannual HVAC tuneup, you may not be aware if this has happened. Failing parts can lead to expensive breakdowns, such as a cracked heat exchanger or a damaged air conditioner compressor. If you had been on top of maintenance, the part might have been replaced at minimal expense, whereas it could lead to a more expensive repair if it's been neglected and allowed to fail.

Fall and Spring Tuneups

Here are some of the things an HVAC tech will look at in the spring when he checks the air conditioner:

• Refrigerant level.

• Condenser coils.

• Evaporator coils.

• Condensate drain.

• Outdoor fan motor and blades.

• Indoor blower assembly.

• Compressor and refrigerant tubing.

During the fall HVAC inspection, the tech will look at these furnace checkpoints:

• Inspect and clean burners.

• Check and adjust fan switch, pilot, and pilot assembly.

• Inspect heat exchanger for cracks.

• Measure and record carbon monoxide levels.

• Look for leaks in the gas line and flue.

Whether it's fall or spring, the tech should do the following:

• Measure the amperage and voltage of blower.

• Test and calibrate the thermostat.

• Inspect wiring and electrical components.

• Check ductwork for leaks.

Whether you have a biannual HVAC tuneup or not, don't forget to change the air filter regularly. Ask your technician to show you how.

For more on scheduling a biannual HVAC tuneup, contact Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Different HVAC Care for Winter vs. Summer

All homeowners have a common goal of wanting to keep their homes comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year. To achieve that, you'll need to know how to optimize HVAC system operation in both the summer and the winter. Below are some useful tips on seasonal HVAC care.

Open High Returns in the Summer

Hot air rises and cool air sinks. Therefore, opening the right return vents in the summer and winter significantly improves the distribution of air by your forced-air system. You'll also enjoy more even heating and cooling throughout your home.

In the summer, open your high returns and close the low ones. That will allow the warm air that has risen to be sucked out of your room and taken to the air conditioning coils for cooling. What's more, the space created will allow the cold air that's coming into the room to flow up more easily.

So what would happen if you opened the low returns instead? In that case, it's the cold air that your HVAC system is delivering to the room that would be pulled out again. The hot air that has risen would remain up top.

Open Low Returns in the Winter

In the winter, open your low returns. That allows your HVAC system to pull out the cold air that has collected at your floor.

What About the Supply Vents?

If you live in a two-story house, you'll want to optimize the supply air as well. Because hot air rises, you won't have to make many heating adjustments to optimize the delivery of warm air to your upper floor in the winter.

However, in the summer, the rising warm air will pose a problem to the second floor. What's more, your hot attic will add more heat to the area. For those reasons, you'll need greater airflow to the second floor to keep it comfortable.

Open all the higher-floor dampers and partially close the dampers to the rooms on your lower floors. Your air conditioner will now force cold air to the rooms on your upper floor more efficiently.

Remember, even if you follow these steps, airflow will be restricted if your air filters are dirty. If you'd like to know more about effective seasonal HVAC care, contact us at Air Assurance. For more than 30 years, Broken Arrow residents have entrusted their HVAC needs to us.

It's Cold Outside! Make Sure Your HVAC System Can Survive the Winter

When it's cold outside, your HVAC system may be subject to some unusual stresses, particularly if part of your heating equipment is located outside, as with a heat pump.

Here are some things to know about winterizing your HVAC system — well, not really, but at least ensuring it survives the winter OK.

Furnaces

Since most of your furnace is located indoors, it's not subject to the rigors of the weather, although simply by using it more during cold spells, it will endure greater wear and tear. That's why it's important to change the air filter regularly and to schedule preventative maintenance. A licensed HVAC tech will be able to identify problems in the early stage before they require major repairs.

Make sure your chimney or flue is in good working order. Have someone inspect it to make sure it's clear of birds' nests and that the parts have not been damaged by summer storms. Also make sure that exhaust pipes are connected and that combustion gases are being properly expelled.

Heat Pumps

Because the condenser component of the heat pump is located outside, you should have it inspected to make sure it's working right before winter is in full swing. The condenser should be in a protected location, preferably where it won't be buried in snow, and away from possible falling limbs and other debris.

As you are aware, the heat pump is designed to go into defrost mode when the temperature drops. But if it runs too long or doesn't come on often enough, it may need a repair. When this defrost feature fails, the heat pump could freeze up and become coated in ice.

Refrigerant lines and electrical wiring run from the outdoor condenser to the indoor air handler. Your HVAC tech should inspect these lines while performing winter maintenance.

If you have the type of heat pump that heats as well as cools, make sure the reverse valve works properly.

For more on winterizing your HVAC system, contact Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area with quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance.

W+hy Does My House Have a Musty Smell?

If you experience a musty smell when returning home, odds mold or mildew is growing somewhere inside your home. Mold has a fluffy appearance and can be white, black, or colorful. Food often becomes moldy as it rots. A few types of cheese, like blue and Roquefort, have veins of mold growing inside them. Mildew is a powdery substance that grows on living plants and fabrics like carpeting, drapes and upholstery.Mold and mildew are mother nature’s natural decomposers. Both require moisture and organic matter as food to thrive. When you smell it in your home, it indicates that there is a colony of mold or mildew growing somewhere. The odor may be an early warning sign for water leaks inside walls or a basement that’s wicking water from the soil. Other sources might be plumbing fixtures like sink drains, washing machine, or the garbage disposal.

Finding the Source

Your nose is the best way to track down the source of the musty smell. If it’s in the walls, look for mildew or mold growing on the drywall or nearby. Leaking pipes, ice dams, or roof leaks can send water into the walls or ceilings. Spongy drywall also indicates mold.Plumbers use cameras to find the source of leaks inside walls or ceilings and you might be able to find a roof leak by entering the attic on a sunny day and looking for daylight. Wet insulation also indicates a roof leak. Look for compressed areas or darker areas.

Getting Rid of the Problem

Vinegar is one of the least toxic ways to get rid of mold and mildew. Pour it down the sink drains or add some to the washing machine. Washing or deep cleaning fabrics might remove the mildew odor. Having the HVAC thoroughly cleaned, including the ducts, can remove much of the smell as well. Putting UV (ultraviolet) lights in the HVAC system will also stop mold and mildew infestations.

For more information about getting rid of the musty smell, 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.

Puppy-Proof Your HVAC System

Owning a puppy is an incredibly rewarding experience. However, it can harm your HVAC equipment in more ways than one.Dogs come with dander that can pose a severe problem to the equipment. What's more, the notorious nature of young puppies to chew on just about anything can land them in lots of trouble while damaging your HVAC system. Use the HVAC protection tips below to keep both your system and four-legged friend safe.

Safeguard Your Outdoor Unit

The outdoor air conditioning unit is usually installed in the side yard or backyard. That means your pooch can easily access it when going outside to play or for bathroom breaks. The unit's wires, sharp edges, and metal pieces can create perilous situations for your dog.On the other hand, your furry child can damage the unit by scratching or chewing on it. Dog urine can also be extremely harmful to the unit. Consistent urination will degrade your unit and cause problems like erosion of fins and refrigerant leaks, forcing you to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars for repairs.You can prevent accidents by putting up a reasonable barrier like a small fence around the outdoor condenser to prevent the puppy from accessing it. Just make sure you leave at least three feet between the barrier and the unit.

Control Hair and Dander

Dander and hair from your puppy can quickly become airborne and get into your HVAC system. Besides clogging up your filter, they can wrap around critical parts like the coils and cause severe damage. You can prevent such issues by:

• Replacing your filter frequently

• Cleaning your entire home including the air intakes regularly

• Washing and brushing your furry friend often to keep the dander and hair it sheds to a minimum

Remember, having a puppy requires you to make an extra effort toward HVAC protection. Don't forget to schedule a furnace or A/C tuneup regularly to ensure reliable performance and efficiency even if you have a furry friend. If you need dependable HVAC maintenance or repair in the Broken Arrow area, contact the experts 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.

Why Is My Heat Pump So Loud?

When your heat pump suddenly becomes noisy, the first thing that may come to your mind is that it's about to break down. But don't panic just yet. Loud heat pumps could be just that — loud. At times, the loud noise could be a sign of a problem. So how can you tell the difference? Read on to find out the common noises that heat pumps make and what they indicate.

Normal Noises

Heat pumps usually make some strange sounds while they operate. For instance, those that have a Scroll-type compressor make clicking and tapping sounds as they shut down. When coming on, they make rickety sounds. Swooshing sounds are also to be expected when heat pumps go into defrost mode. Shifting valves are responsible for the sounds, which shouldn't be a cause for concern. Rattling sounds at startup or shutdown that resemble an unbalanced washing machine are also typical.

Unsettling Noises

Some loud noises can be signs of trouble. They include:

• Gurgling — Low refrigerant charge often causes gurgling noises. It can severely downgrade your heat pump's performance.

• Rattling — Frequent rattling or vibration-like sounds could be caused by loose components or unsecured ducts.

• Metal-to-metal noises — At times, a heat pump can make banging or clanging sounds like metal hitting against metal. The fan blades could be hitting a chunk of ice or other components. The contact could damage the fan or the parts that the fan blades are hitting. To avoid costly repairs, turn the unit off as soon as you hear these noises.

• Popping — This sound could be as a result of liquid refrigerant entering the compressor. You should have it fixed soonest possible.

• Squealing — A high-pitched squealing sound could indicate your unit's motor is going bad. It could also be due to your compressor putting too much pressure on the refrigerant.

If your heat pump is making any of these worrisome sounds, call in an HVAC professional to examine it. If you need help with a noisy unit in the Broken Arrow area, contact the heat pump specialists 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.

What to Look for When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

It pays to spend a little time researching the credentials and reputation of an HVAC contractor before you schedule service or repairs. In most homes, the HVAC system is the sole means of maintaining comfort day and night. Hiring a capable and reputable company might make a good deal of difference.

Licensing.

In Oklahoma, all HVAC contractors and technicians have to have a license issued by the state to practice. They must also have bonding and insurance coverage. Using someone who isn’t licensed could void your warranty and leave you vulnerable for financial or physical damages that occur at your home during a service call or installation.

Memberships.

The key to finding a solid contractor you can trust is to look for one who has NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the capabilities and competence of HVAC technicians and contractors. They require passing a battery of rigorous tests for membership. Additionally, members have to continue their educations and retest every two years.

Reputation.

Most HVAC contractors are local, which means you can ask the contractors you’re interviewing for a list of past and current customers. You can also access the Better Business Bureau’s database online that will give you their ratings with this trusted authority on companies large and small. Air Assurance has an A+ rating in the Broken Arrow region.

Authorizations.

In order for an HVAC contractor to be an authorized dealer, the company has to exhibit high performance and competency standards. The contractor will have advanced knowledge of the equipment, since they can access all the technical information available. At their simplest, HVAC systems are complicated and when the technician has all the information at his fingertips, installing and servicing the equipment will be exact.Whenever you need to hire an HVAC contractor, look for these qualifications.

For more information, contact Air Assurance, a local HVAC company serving Broken Arrow homeowners. We have NATE certification, a top rating with the BBB, and are a premier dealer for Lennox.

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.

January HVAC Maintenance To-Dos

Now that the new year is upon us, it's time to start thinking about January HVAC maintenance that will help improve your household. To help you out, we've compiled some quick tasks that you can add to your to-do list:

Replace the Air Filter

Now that the holidays are over and your guests have returned home, there's a good chance that your air filter has become a bit clogged and needs to be replaced. Some models can be cleaned instead, but the main point is to get an operational filter in your system so that it runs more smoothly. This will save you both energy and money on your monthly utility bill.

Contact an HVAC Technician

January is a great month to hire a qualified technician for the annual HVAC maintenance of your system. He or she will perform a tune-up of the system and pinpoint any problems that currently exist or could be an issue later on down the road. This maintenance will keep the unit running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, it will prolong the system's operational longevity.

Seal Air Leaks in Your Home

Air leaks throughout your home force your HVAC system to work harder in order to maintain a good comfort level. Find these air leaks and get them sealed with either weather stripping, caulk, or spray foam depending on the location and size. Around the edges of your doors and windows are a great place to start, and checking for tears in your home's ductwork is a good idea, too.

Check Your Registers

If you had a bunch of activity in your home over the holidays, there's a good chance that your registers have become blocked by furniture or simply gotten clogged up with dirt or debris. Make sure that the registers are clean and unobstructed to ensure proper airflow throughout your home.

For more expert advice on January HVAC maintenance or any other issues related to home comfort, reach out to the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving Broken Arrow and the surrounding area for over 30 years.

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.

Decoration Storage Do's and Don't's

Most homeowners have a collection of treasured decorations that help make the holiday season more festive. You may not realize it, but there's a direct correlation between protecting your decorations while they're in storage and keeping your home and family safe from harm. Here are some decoration storage do's and don't's that can help you accomplish both:

Don't Assume That Decorations Aren't Dangerous

You might mistakenly think you only have to worry about hazards like frayed electric holiday lights or placing a tree too close to your fireplace when your decorations are in use. However, some stored decorations can add fuel to a fire or produce noxious fumes when they melt, such as:

• Boxes and egg cartons used for ornament storage

• Fabric holiday stockings and tree skirts

• Components of wreaths, garlands and artificial trees

• Holiday candles

• Plastic totes and storage containers

Don't Use the Furnace Room for Decoration Storage

If you have some extra space around your furnace, you might be tempted to use it to store your holiday decorations. The truth is, having any of the above items close to a combustion device like your furnace (or water heater) is a serious safety hazard. Other flammable and combustible items that shouldn't be stored near your furnace are fuels like gasoline, paint and paint thinners, aerosol sprays, cleaning and laundry products, wood products, paper goods, cat litter and fabric/textile materials.

Do Choose a Safe Spot for Storing Decorations

After you've carefully packed up your holiday decorations to keep them safe while in storage, here are some potential storage location where they're unlikely to cause any danger:

• The attic. A well-lit attic can be a good spot to store seasonal holiday decor, just don't include items like paraffin candles that may melt.

• Your garage. A dedicated shelving unit in the garage can make a great location for storing decorations during the off-season.

• A bedroom closet. An empty closet in a seldom-used bedroom can give you easy access to stored boxes of holiday decorations.

To learn more safe decoration storage ideas for 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, us at 918-217-8273.