How To Prepare Your HVAC System for Thunderstorms and Hurricanes

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Photo of a thunderstormWith the warm weather season comes frequent thunderstorms and even the occasional hurricane. Is your HVAC system ready to handle severe weather? If you’re not sure, there are some steps you can take to make sure your air conditioner is prepared. When a storm catches you off guard, you could find yourself making an emergency call to your heating and cooling company. Don’t get stuck without AC after a storm by following these tips.

  1. Turn off the power to your HVAC system from your circuit breaker box. When you know a storm is coming, no matter how minor, turning off the power to your air conditioner can save the electrical components from a power surge. When lightning strikes anywhere near your home it can cause damage to your electrical appliances. Cutting off the power prevents this. If you have a window unit or portable air conditioner, unplug it from the wall.
  2. Check your backup generator. In case you lose power during a storm, make sure your backup generator is working properly. Once the storm passes you may need backup electricity until the power company can get power restored to your area. If you haven’t used your generator in a long time, it’s possible that it may not be in proper working order.
  3. Cover your outdoor unit. To protect your outdoor unit from damage due to blowing debris, cover it with a tarp or cover of some kind. Make sure the power is off to your HVAC system first. Clear out the area around your AC unit to eliminate as much debris as possible that could blow into your system.
  4. After the storm, check your HVAC system before turning it on. Do not turn on your air conditioner right after the storm passes if you haven’t checked the outdoor unit for damage. You may need to clear out debris that has blown against the unit. If there are any dents or obvious problems, call your heating and cooling company before using your system.

Don’t Get Caught Unprepared. Schedule Maintenance with Your Heating and Cooling Company Before Storm Season

Make sure your HVAC system is prepared for severe weather by scheduling a tune up in early spring. An AC tune up, also known as preventative maintenance, involves inspection, cleaning, and repairing your system. The inspection turns up any potential problems that need to be addressed so that repairs can be done before an emergency occurs. A thorough cleaning helps your HVAC system to run as efficiently as possible. Electrical components are checked to be sure nothing is loose or worn out. Your air conditioning will be ready to weather the storm after a detailed tune up. The best time to schedule maintenance is early spring before the weather gets hot and before technicians get busy responding to emergency AC calls.

Be prepared for severe weather. Schedule maintenance now with Alamance Oil: (336) 226-9371.

Why is My Air Conditioner Clicking?

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Air Conditioners Have you been hearing unusual noises coming from your AC unit? Central air conditioners emit a variety of noises that range from normal to abnormal. Sounds like blowing air, soft whirring, one soft click when your system comes on, are all normal for a properly operating HVAC system. But if you hear a persistent clicking sound coming from your AC, it might be an indication that something isn’t right and professional air conditioner repair may be necessary. Here are some probable causes.

First, Determine Where the Clicking Sound is Coming From

The source of the noise is an important factor in determining the cause. Depending on where the sound is coming from, the problem could be mechanical or electrical, possibly serious or more minor. Locate the source of the sound and consider the possible causes.

  • Outside unit: When the clicking sound comes from the outside unit, it could mean there is a loose part somewhere. It could be a bolt, a wire, a refrigerant tube, or some other part that may just need to be tightened. It’s best to call an HVAC technician to diagnose the problem and repair it.
  • Inside unit: If the clicking sound seems to coming from the inside unit, whether it resides in your attic, basement, or a closet, it is likely the fan that is part of the air handler. An obstruction to the fan blades will cause a clicking sound every time the blades hit the obstruction as they spin. If the clicking starts out slow and gradually gets faster and then persists, you most likely have a fan-related problem. It could also be a bent fan blade causing the clicking sound. Call your AC repair service to find the reason for the clicking and repair it.
  • Electrical system or circuit box: Each time the indoor temperature gets too high and your air conditioner comes on, you may hear a click (and see a slight dimming of the lights) as the AC pulls the voltage it needs to start up. If you hear a click but your AC doesn’t come on, you likely have an electrical problem. Sometimes wires can corrode and get stuck together. Other parts like the capacitor or control board switch could be bad and need to be replaced. If you hear a click in your circuit box it means something has tripped a circuit breaker. If it happens to be your air conditioner, it could indicate a problem, especially if it happens frequently. Never attempt to fix electrical components yourself, always call for professional air conditioner repair.

Calm the Click with Reliable Air Conditioner Repair from Alamance Oil

Anytime you hear unusual sounds coming from your AC, the best thing to do is call Alamance Oil. Trained, experienced technicians will identify the problem and repair it quickly and accurately. Don’t ignore the sound or you could end up with a broken down air conditioner on a hot day. A simple repair done at the right time can save you from having to replace your entire system. Don’t wait, call Alamance Oil today: (336) 226-9371.

Your Best Options for Cooling a Finished Basement

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Whether you are planning to finish your basement or you already have a basement living space that needs air conditioning, you have a few different options. Basements have some unique challenges when it comes to cooling. Before you consider an AC system install, you want to be sure you are making the right choice that will bring optimal comfort to your basement.

Finished basement photo

Basement Cooling Challenges:

  • Dampness/humidity. Basements, being underground, tend to stay damp. Keeping out excess humidity is a constant battle.
  • Windows (or lack thereof). Some basements lack windows entirely. Others have very small windows that are often located up high at ground level.
  • Extra square footage (when finished later). When a basement is finished after the rest of the home it adds additional space that needs to be cooled beyond what was originally there when the current air conditioner was installed. The size of a home’s HVAC system is determined based on the number of square feet to be cooled.

Basement Cooling Solutions:

  • Dehumidifier. Air conditioners naturally manage humidity levels in any space that is being cooled. However, it may still be wise to use a separate dehumidifier to remove even more excess moisture from the air. This ensures that humidity is properly managed and that your AC can run more efficiently. The natural dampness of basements can lead to mold and mildew growth if moisture is not kept in check.
  • Ductless mini-split system. Window units are either difficult or impossible to use in basements. Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are ideal for cooling a single room and only require a very small hole in the wall for a pipe to connect to an outside unit. They are mounted directly onto the wall and quietly and efficiently cool the room.
  • Add on to your current central air conditioning system. One option is to simply extend your current HVAC system to cool the basement as well. However, this will only work if your current system can handle the additional square footage that your basement will add. If you are unsure about this, the contractor who performs your AC system install can calculate whether or not your existing unit can sufficiently cool the additional space. If not, you may consider replacing your system with a larger one (this may be a wise choice if your current system is already over eight years old). If it is relatively new and does not need replacing, but cannot handle the extra load, the ductless mini-split system is still an option.

Cool Your Basement Efficiently with an AC System Install by a Trusted HVAC Contractor

You can only truly enjoy the additional living space your finished basement offers when it’s cool and comfortable. Let Berico expertly perform your air conditioning installation so that it looks as good as it feels. Whether you add onto your current system or install new equipment, Berico offers affordable, reliable service. Call today for a free estimate: (336) 273-8663.

Tips for Buying a New AC System for Your Historic Home

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It’s easy to fall in love with a historic home. Whether it’s been well maintained or needs to be fully renovated, the allure and enchantment prevail. But old homes come with unique challenges, such as incorporating modern comforts like air conditioning. It is possible to add AC to an historic home without disturbing the architecture or the integrity of the home? There are a few options to choose from when it comes to central AC installation in an older home, and your choice will likely come down to pricing and aesthetics.

Historic Home renovations

Central Air Conditioning: The Cost Effective Option

Pros: Less expensive than more specialized systems, energy efficient, and controls humidity.

Cons: Ductwork takes up space in both rooms and closets and the outdoor unit may distract from the historic look.

Pricing for central air conditioners comes down to efficiency or the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The more efficient the system, the higher the price. A SEER of 16 or higher is considered to be a high-efficiency system, but the ratings go as high as 18-20 for some models. More expensive models also do a better job of controlling humidity, which is important to the preservation of historic homes.

Installing ductwork in an existing home means sacrificing closet space and may require boxing in corners of rooms or lowering ceilings. This may disrupt the authenticity of the historic interior design.

Mini-Duct Air Conditioning: The Space Saving Option

Pros: Small ducts take up less space and are less intrusive to install.

Cons: Strong air flow from vents means less flexibility for furniture arrangement.

Mini-duct systems use 3 inch ducts that can be snaked through walls and floor joints so they are less conspicuous. No need to sacrifice closet space or square footage of rooms.

The small ductwork causes the cool air to come out fast and furious. You wouldn’t want to be sitting or sleeping right next to or under one of these vents. You may have to arrange your furniture accordingly.

Ductless Air Conditioning: The Quiet Option

Pros: Quiet operation, very little construction, and room-by-room cooling.

Cons: Pricier and modern looking.

Ductless systems mount to the wall and only require a small hole through which a pipe can fit to connect the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Each room to be cooled requires its own indoor unit that can be set to whatever temperature is wanted on a room-by-room basis. No ductwork is required, meaning very little indoor construction. Fans operate quietly, making ductless systems as unobtrusive as possible.

Ductless systems are more expensive than central air conditioning, but the fewer number of rooms that require cooling, the less it will cost. If you can get away with only cooling bedrooms and most frequently used rooms, you can save a lot. The only other downside to ductless systems is that the wall unit looks very modern, which distracts from the historic look of the home and décor.

Trust Your Historic Home to Carolina Fuels

Every decision you make when renovating a historic home matters. Once you make a permanent change it can never be undone. Trust the beauty and integrity of your priceless home to the experts at Berico. Whether you choose central AC installation, a mini-duct system, or a ductless unit, you can count on your HVAC contractor to install it right. Call Berico for a free estimate: (336) 273-8663.

Why Is My AC Freezing Over?

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To find ice on your outdoor air conditioning unit on a hot day may seem strange, but it’s actually quite common. Central air conditioners sometimes malfunction in a way that causes ice to form on your outdoor unit. There are a few different causes for this, but most importantly, if you see ice on your AC unit you should call for AC repair services immediately. Acting quickly can prevent further damage to your HVAC system. Read more

Safety Tips for Using a Backup Power Generator

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A power outage can be frustrating, and in some cases even dangerous. But what’s even more dangerous is incorrect use of a generator. If you have a generator to use as a backup power source or you’re thinking of getting one, safety should be your most important consideration. Follow these generator safety tips and you can rest assured your home or business will always have power when needed. Read more

4 Ways to Spend Less on a New HVAC System

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Is your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system starting to show signs of old age? If so, you’re faced with what can seem to be the daunting task of purchasing a new system. HVAC units can be expensive and if the cost does not fit into your current budget, you could be facing a difficult financial situation. But there are ways to spend less on heating and air installation, you just have to know where and how to look. Read more

4 Things You Should Know Before Home AC Installation is Performed

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As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, you might be thinking about having air conditioning installed in your home. North Carolina summers are hot and having AC is essential for a comfortable home. Whether you have an existing home that needs air conditioning or a new home currently being built, Greensboro air conditioning installation is an important step that adds value. But before you have AC installed, there are some things you should know.

AC Installation Graphic

  1. Choose the best type of AC for your home. There are many different types of air conditioners for residential use from central air to individual room units. It is important to choose the type that will work best in your home and help you achieve the optimum level of comfort. Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) company can recommend the best system for you.
  2. Have the right size system installed. Air conditioner models are designed to cool a certain number of square feet. The size of your home determines what size your AC unit needs to be. Zone cooling makes a difference in the size of system you need as well. Explain your cooling needs to your HVAC company and they will properly match your system to the size of your home.
  3. Make sure your electrical system can handle the extra load. Most air conditioners run on electricity. If you are adding an AC unit for the first time, it is important to make sure your home’s electrical system and circuit box can handle the additional amps. Your HVAC company should be able to handle this for you, but it is possible that an electrician may need to be called to accurately assess your electrical system and make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Get an efficient system to save money. Air conditioners have a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the system is. You may pay more up front for a system with a higher SEER, but you will save money on your energy bill in the long run. And some states, including North Carolina, offer incentives for installing efficient AC units.

Greensboro AC Installation by HVAC Experts at Berico   

You can trust experienced Berico technicians to be sure these four things are taken into consideration when installing your new air conditioning system. Enjoy a cool, comfortable home this summer with an efficient AC unit installed by Berico. Call (336) 273-8663 for a free estimate today.

3 Signs You’re Getting a Quality AC Tune Up

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You know your air conditioner needs periodic maintenance in order to function properly, run efficiently, and last longer. You also know that getting an AC tune up in Burlington in each year can save you money on repairs and utilities. But how do you know if you’re getting a quality AC tune up? Hundreds of HVAC companies offer tune ups under a variety of names from preventive maintenance to annual service appointments, but not every company follows the same procedures. To be sure you’re getting your money’s worth from your AC tune up, look for these signs.

Burlington AC Replacement

  1. An HVAC company with a good reputation. First, before scheduling a tune up from any company, you should do some research. Read reviews, check their status with the Better Business Bureau, and confirm licensing. If there are any major customer complaints that were left unresolved, that should throw up a red flag to you. Go with your instincts. If anything seems off or makes you feel wary, look for another HVAC company.
  2. The technician should follow a thorough checklist. Your technician should come equipped with a checklist and any tools and supplies needed to perform the tune up. You have a right to ask for a copy of the checklist, both before and after to make sure each item was checked off the list. The process should take a little while if every part is inspected and cleaned as it should be. Don’t sign the receipt/contract unless you are fully satisfied that the technician did a sufficient job.
  3. If repairs are needed, your technician should discuss them with you. If any parts are worn out, need replacing or if anything needs to be repaired, your technician should bring it to your attention and get your permission before performing repairs. The cost of repairs should also be discussed with you before any work is done. If you are diligent about getting an AC tune up in Burlington each year, there’s a good chance no repairs will be needed. But if it’s been a while since your AC has been serviced, be prepared for the fact that some repairs may be necessary.

You Can Count On a Quality AC Tune Up in Burlington from Alamance Oil

Don’t pay for a poor quality tune up from an unreliable AC service. Alamance Oil has served many satisfied customers in Burlington and the surrounding area. An experienced Alamance Oil technician will follow a thorough checklist to make sure nothing is missed and that your air conditioner will run as efficiently as possible throughout the year. Call to schedule an appointment today: (336) 226-9371

AC Maintenance Can Save Your Business

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Air conditioning is a must have commodity in the business world. The comfort of your employees and customers as well as the protection of your inventory depends on temperature regulation. North Carolina weather is often hot and humid, making cooling equipment necessary for up to 9 months of the year. If something goes wrong with the AC in your office, warehouse, store, restaurant, etc. the effects can be catastrophic. You can avoid unexpected AC failure with routine maintenance.

York HVAC systems

Greensboro AC Maintenance Offers Many Benefits:

  1. Save money. One of the biggest benefits to having your Greensboro AC service perform regular maintenance on your air conditioning system is that it saves you money. A quick tune up before the weather gets hot prepares your AC unit for the long, hot summer ahead. Parts are cleaned and any necessary repairs or replacements are done. If there are any potential problems they will be found and taken care of, preventing future problems. And your system will run much more efficiently, meaning you save money on your monthly energy bill.
  2. Reduce down time. In extreme heat, an AC malfunction can lead to close of business until a repair service can correct the problem. And in the heat of summer it can be difficult to get an appointment as most HVAC companies are busy responding to other emergencies. Preventative maintenance means you avoid down time due to air conditioning problems and you know your inventory and assets are safe.
  3. Increase productivity and sales. In a comfortable work environment, workers are more productive and experience higher levels of job satisfaction. Customers are more satisfied and purchase more, eat more, and drink more—and you, the business owner, reap the benefits.
  4. Service agreements come with added perks. When you enter into a service agreement with your Commercial HVAC company, a technician automatically comes each year to give your system a tune up, and you get extra benefits such as 20% off diagnostic fees and repairs, priority service, waived emergency fees, and more.

Commercial Greensboro AC Services from a Name You Can Trust

Berico serves businesses in Greensboro and the surrounding area. As a local business, Berico understands the needs of other local businesses and strives to provide excellent, prompt service to all customers. Put the comfort of your business in the capable hands of trained, experienced technicians. Call (336) 273-8663 to schedule maintenance today.