Air Conditioner Replacement in Greensboro

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Air Conditioner Replacement GreensboroIf you are a homeowner, most likely you have central air conditioning. And if you have central air conditioning, you’ve probably had to have it repaired at least a time or two, depending on how long you’ve owned your home. If you live in a region such as Greensboro that has hot summers, air conditioning is a necessity. And if the hot season is 4 or 5 months long, energy costs can be significant. If you want to lower your energy costs, consider replacing your air conditioner.

How old is your air conditioner? If the answer is 8 years or more, then you will probably benefit from air conditioner replacement in Greensboro. Technological advances in air conditioner design have made new systems much more energy efficient than older systems. Even an air conditioner that is 5 years old is not going to run as efficiently as a brand new system would. And as air conditioners age they lose efficiency. If you keep your system well maintained it will run better than if you do nothing, but even a well maintained older system will not run as well as a new system.

When it comes to energy efficiency, all air conditioners are given a SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The minimum SEER rating used to be 10, but the federal government recently upped it to 13. Most contractors won’t install any systems that rate less than a 13. A good SEER rating is 16 or higher. A great SEER rating is over 20. Of course the higher the SEER rating, the more expensive the system. But don’t let that deter you from purchasing a better system. The higher the SEER rating, the more money you will save on your energy bill. In fact, the money you save on energy will pay for a new system in a few short years.

Has your energy bill been getting higher and higher each month? This is a sign of poor performance by your air conditioner. Look back at your records; is your bill higher this summer than it was last summer? Unless the weather has been significantly hotter this season than last, most likely your air conditioner isn’t running as well as it was. A tune-up could help, but may only be a short-term fix.

Certain makes and models of air conditioners have the best SEER ratings and have also been given good reviews for reliability. You can do your own research to see what homeowners are saying about their air conditioners. Or you can ask a professional heating and air conditioning company what they recommend. HVAC companies that repair and install air conditioners know which makes and models are the best because they work with them every day.

Berico Heating and Air Conditioning has been serving the Greensboro area since 1924. Berico technicians have the experience necessary to recommend the best air conditioner for your home, and they can install it correctly. Don’t continue to lose money because your air conditioner doesn’t run as efficiently as it should; replace it sooner rather than later.

Air Conditioning Installation Greensboro

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Air Conditioning Installation GreensboroInstallation of a central air conditioning unit in Greensboro is a job that is extremely critical to the efficient operation of your system. Proper installation will ensure the best performance from your air conditioning system. Poor installation can cause your air conditioner to break down more often and run less efficiently. Find a reputable contractor who can recommend the best air conditioning unit for your home and install it correctly.

One of the most common mistakes that is made when installing a new central air conditioner is incorrect size. It is crucial that a thorough assessment of the home is done in order to determine the right sized air conditioner. An air conditioner that is too small will not be able to fully cool the home and keep it comfortable. The system will have to run harder and more often, which will shorten its overall lifespan and require more repairs. It will also be less energy efficient and cause energy bills to go up. An air conditioner that is too big will have problems with humidity control and will be more expensive to run.

Another part of installation that can be an issue is the size of the ductwork. The same assessment that is done to determine the size of the air conditioner should also be used to determine the size of the ductwork. Improperly sized ductwork can cause too much or too little airflow in and out of the unit. This can cause your compressor to be overworked, resulting in early equipment failure. It will also impede efficiency.

A common problem that can occur with the ductwork is poor sealing. If the ductwork is not properly sealed, the cool air that should be blowing out of your vents to cool the lived in rooms in your home will escape into the attic or some other area instead. Of course this causes poor cooling of the home and higher energy bills.

Condensate drains are an important part of air conditioning installation that is often done wrong. If excess moisture cannot drain properly out of the AC unit it will cause humidity in the home and will eventually cause other problems. Also, if an emergency drain pan is not installed, any water that overflows from the main drainage pan will leak out into walls and ceilings causing damage to drywall and other problems.

Sometimes air conditioner installation in Greensboro is done with an incorrect level of refrigerant. Refrigerant level has to be very accurate to ensure the best performance from an air conditioner. If the refrigerant is low by even 10% it will cause the energy bill to go up by 20%.

With so many things that can go wrong with installation, be sure to hire a reputable company to do yours. Berico Heating and Air Conditioning has been serving Greensboro since 1924. Certified Berico technicians will accurately assess your home to be sure that the right size system is installed in your home. They have the experience necessary to install the ductwork properly, as well as the drains and refrigerant. You can rely on Berico to do it right the first time.

Greensboro AC Tune up – when it’s time

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Greensboro AC Tune up

Efficiency is key when it comes to air conditioning. You don’t want your energy bill to be any higher than it needs to be. An AC tune up will go a long way to improving the efficiency of your air conditioner. And if you are not already, you should have a tune up done yearly to keep your air conditioner running efficiently. Routine maintenance will also help to avoid break downs and repairs.
What time of year should a tune up be done? The best time to have a tune up done is before the weather gets hot. In most cases that would be early springtime. Its best to make sure the system is going to run well the first time you need to turn it on. And you will save the most on energy costs if the system is running efficiently for the entire hot season. Most heating and air conditioning companies offer a combined service package that includes a check of your heating system in the fall and your air conditioner in the spring.

What will a tune up consist of? Technicians have a checklist they follow to check all parts of an air conditioner. The evaporator coil will be thoroughly cleaned. Filters will be changed or cleaned if not disposable. Electrical wiring and components will be reconnected and tightened. Condensate drains will be checked and cleared if there are any blockages. Thermostats will be checked to be sure they are working properly. Refrigerant levels will be checked and refilled if necessary. All moving parts will be thoroughly lubricated. The ductwork will be checked for blockages and leaks. The blower will be checked and cleaned. A few other minor checks and balances will be done to ensure the best performance from your air conditioner.

How much will a tune up cost? Most heating and air conditioning companies offer an annual maintenance package that includes two tune ups; one in the fall for your heat and one in the spring for your air conditioner. The fee depends upon the maintenance package you choose. The advantages of maintenance packages include reduced repair fees and priority service to name a few. The cost varies from one company to another, but whatever the fee, routine maintenance will save you money. You will save money on energy by keeping your air conditioner running efficiently. You will save money on repairs because your system won’t need repaired as often, and if it does, the fee you pay toward your maintenance plan will reduce your repair costs.

The benefits of an AC tune up are endless. Choose a reputable HVAC company to perform your routine tune ups. In Greensboro, that company should be Berico Heating and Air Conditioning. Berico has provided heating and air conditioning service to Greensboro and the surrounding area since 1924. Berico technicians have the training and experience necessary to give your air conditioner a complete tune up that will keep it running properly and efficiently.

Reidsville and Eden AC Replacement

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AC Replacement in Reidsville and Eden NC

Reidsville and Eden AC ReplacementTo repair or replace? How do you know when it’s time to stop repairing your air conditioner and replace it with a new one? The best way to decide is to call a professional repair company. Trained technicians can diagnose your system and suggest the best course of action. But there are a few things you can look for that may mean your air conditioner needs to be replaced.

One thing to consider is the age of your system. Air conditioners can last for 15 or 20 years, but if your unit is more than 10 years old, you may want to consider replacement. Older systems are not as efficient as newer systems are. A newer, more efficient system uses less energy and will save you money. Another consideration with the age of your air conditioner is the type of refrigerant it uses. Older systems use Freon, which is being phased out by the federal government and being replaced by a new type of refrigerant that is more energy efficient. Eventually all air conditioners will use the new refrigerant and Freon will not be available for refilling old systems.

If your home is not cooling consistently, it may be time to replace your air conditioner in Reidsville, NC. You may find that some rooms are cool and others are not. It may seem that it takes too long for your home to cool down to the desired temperature. It may also seem that your system is running constantly to keep your home cool, which is a sign that your system is not working properly. And constant running will cause your system to wear out faster, making replacement inevitable.

Another sign that your air conditioner may be on its last legs is excessive noise. If your system is making more noise than usual, it is usually a sign that there are problems such as disconnected parts or a worn out motor. These things may be able to be repaired, but sometimes the cost of repairs is more than the cost of a new system. If your air conditioner needs repairs often, the cost will add up and you may find that you will save more money in the long run by replacing your system. A professional can help you to make this decision by evaluating the condition of your system.

Sometimes the problem is not with the performance of your air conditioner, but with the size. If the air conditioner is too small for the size of your home, it will not be able to do its job. Air conditioners are matched to homes based on the square footage that needs to be cooled. An air conditioner that is too small will not be able to keep your home at the desired temperature. Some rooms may be cooler than others and you may find that the humidity level is too high. If your air conditioner is too small for your home, consider upgrading to a bigger system.

If you need a technician to evaluate your air conditioner, Carolina Fuels is available in Eden and Reidsville. Trained technicians can repair or replace your system 24 hours a day. Call 336-623-9741 or visit our website: www.berico.com.

Air Conditioner Replacement in Burlington, NC

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Burlington AC Replacement

Burlington AC ReplacementAs a homeowner, you will at some point find yourself faced with the difficult decision of whether or not to replace your air conditioner in Burlington, NC. There are many factors to consider when making this decision: the age of your system, how efficiently it’s running, the cost of repairs, the comfort level in your home, etc. Here are some of the most important things to look for.

How old is your air conditioner? If your system is 10 or more years old, it most likely needs to be replaced. When an air conditioner gets old it doesn’t run as efficiently. It won’t cool as well, it will need to run more often, and your energy costs will go up. New air conditioners are designed to run as efficiently as ever. They are quieter, use less energy, and make your home more comfortable. The cost of a new system will be offset by the amount of money you will save in energy costs.

Another problem with an old system is that it may still use R22 Freon as coolant. The federal government is phasing out R22 Freon in lieu of a new refrigerant that is more energy efficient. If your system still uses Freon or if it needs repairs that have anything to do with coolant, it may be a good time to replace your system. Eventually it will be necessary.
Even if your system is not yet 10 years old, it still may be running at low efficiency. This will be noticeable in your energy bill, if it goes up and continues to be higher than usual. Other signs of inefficiency are excessive humidity and uneven temperatures throughout the home. If simple repairs are not able to correct these issues, it may be time to schedule an energy audit or estimate on a new system.

If your air conditioner needs repairs, weigh the cost of the repairs against the price of a new system. Most likely the repairs will cost less than replacing the entire system in the immediate future. But in the long run, you will most likely find that replacing your system will save you money on future repairs. If it seems that your system needs repaired often, you should probably replace it.

A common problem with air conditioners is that your home just doesn’t cool well enough to be comfortable. This can mean your system is not running properly. But it can also mean that the air conditioner that was installed is not the correct size for your home. Air conditioning systems come in different sizes based on the square footage of your home. If the system you have isn’t big enough, it won’t be able to cool your home. It may be time to upgrade to a bigger air conditioner.

If you are unsure if your AC system needs to be replaced, Alamance Oil Company can help. Trained technicians can evaluate your system and determine the best course of action. Alamance Oil Company serves Burlington and the surrounding areas and we are available 24 hours for emergencies. Call 336-226-9371 or visit our website: www.berico.com.

Air Conditioner Repair in Burlington, NC

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Air Conditioner Repair in Burlington, NC

If your air conditioner stops working in Burlington, NC during hot weather, it can be frustrating and miserable. There are various things that can go wrong with an air conditioning system but there are a few common problems that occur most often. It is best to call a professional repair company to diagnose and repair your AC system in Burlington. An accurate diagnosis and correct repair of the system is crucial to its performance and overall life span, and possibly upholding your warranty.

One common problem with air conditioning systems is faulty wiring. If the system is not properly wired it can repeatedly trip the circuit breaker or prevent the system from getting power. Most importantly, faulty wiring is a fire hazard and needs to be addressed and repaired immediately. Professional technicians are trained to check and properly wire air conditioning systems to ensure safety and prevent hazards.

Another problem that can occur is a refrigerant leak. The refrigerant is what cools the air, so if it seems the unit is running but the air coming out of the vents isn’t cool, then most likely the refrigerant is low. If the system is low on refrigerant it typically means there is a leak somewhere. A refrigerant leak is also an environmental hazard. A technician can locate and repair the leak and charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.

You may find that the outside fan has quit running. If this is the case then the hot hair from inside your house is not being transferred outside like it should be. This can cause the compressor to overheat and trip the safety overload. Worst case scenario it can cause permanent damage to the compressor. In most cases this can be repaired by a trained technician.
Sometimes the outside unit is simply not running. This can mean there is a lack of power to the unit. It can also be caused by a thermostat issue. It takes a professional to determine the cause and correct the problem.

If your filters become dirty or the ductwork becomes blocked, that lack of airflow can cause an internal coil to freeze. Usually a frozen coil is due to lack of air flow but can also be caused by low refrigerant. A professional will be able to find the reason and correct it.

The best way to combat against these issues is to obtain a routine maintenance package from a reliable repair company. Alamance Oil Company offers routine maintenance and service plans to the Burlington area. There are various packages available to suit individual needs. Maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and efficiently. A technician will give your system an annual tune-up to make sure the system is working to its full potential. When you keep your system at top performance it extends the life of your system and keeps your energy costs low. We also offer 24 hour emergency service so you can call any time, day or night, if your system fails. Call Alamance Oil Company at 336-226-9371 or visit our website at www.berico.com.

AC Repair Reidsville Eden NC

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Air Conditioning Repair in Reidsville and Eden, NC

Air Conditioning RepairWhen your air conditioner breaks down during hot weather, you will notice pretty quickly. But what you may not notice are the more subtle indications that your air conditioner is not running properly. If you check for some common clues that there might be a problem, you can have them repaired before they cause your system to fail. And keeping your system running as efficiently as possible will cut down on energy costs. Call a professional repair service if you notice any of the following symptoms.

If your air conditioner is making a lot of noise or more noise than usual, that is often an indication that something isn’t working properly within your system. Air conditioners are designed to run as quietly as possible, so excessive noise can mean any number of things are wrong. There may be loose parts or the motor may be starting to wear out. If the noise persists or gets louder, it’s time to call a repair service. AC repair in Reidsville, NC can be handled easily.

You may notice that the air flow is weaker than normal coming from your vents. If this occurs the first thing to do is replace your filters. Clean filters ensure the best air flow possible because the dirt and dust that build up in them block the air. If your filters are clean and the air flow is still weaker than normal, it may be time to call for a repair. Sometimes there is a blockage in the ductwork that may be difficult to clear out.

It may seem that your home isn’t cooling off as fast as it should be. Check to see that the air coming from the vents is cool. If the air isn’t cool enough or it seems that the system is running constantly without reaching the desired temperature, you may have a coolant issue or possibly a bigger problem. When your air conditioner is working overtime it can cause many more problems and will shorten the overall life span of your system.

Sometimes a problem with your air conditioner is not obvious. Just because your system has not stopped running doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. And ignoring the small signs of a problem can lead to bigger malfunctions of your system. It is much better to have your air conditioner repaired before it fails completely. Sometimes what seems like a small repair can keep you from having to replace your entire system.

Besides being aware of any changes in your air conditioner, the best thing you can do for your system is to have routine maintenance performed annually by an expert. Carolina Fuels offers maintenance packages and service plans that include a yearly tune-up of your system as well as discounts on repairs. Preventative maintenance will ensure that you will not find yourself without air conditioning on a hot day. Carolina Fuels serves Eden and Reidsville for all of your HVAC needs. We offer 24 hour emergency service so call any time you experience a problem. You can contact Carolina Fuels by phone: 336-623-9741 and on our website: www.berico.com.

Greensboro AC Repair

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Air Conditioning Repair in Greensboro, NC

air conditioner repairWhen there is a problem with your air conditioner in Greensboro, it is best to call a professional repair service. It is important to find a reputable company with well trained technicians to repair your air conditioning system. Professionals are trained to diagnose and repair your air conditioner quickly and reliably. There are many problems that can arise with air conditioning systems. Sometimes it’s not as obvious as when your system quits running all together. There are small problems that can cause your system to run less efficiently, and such small problems can wear down your system and shorten its lifespan.

One problem that may arise is that your air conditioning system may not cool as well as it once did. It runs and cool air comes out of the vents, but the air may not be as cool as it should be. This causes your system to work overtime to compensate, which raises energy costs.

Sometimes the problem is actually with the thermostat, not the air conditioning unit. If the thermostat is not reading the correct temperature it will not come on when it should, turn off when it should, and will not regulate the indoor temperature as it should.

Another common problem is a refrigerant leak. In this case, simply adding coolant is not a good solution. The leak needs to be repaired by a trained technician and the proper amount of refrigerant needs to be added according to the manufacturer’s specifications for that unit. Too much or too little can cause the system to fail. And refrigerant leaks are harmful to the environment.

One of the most basic problems is that filters and air conditioner coils become dirty, causing the compressor or fans to fail. Sometimes it’s a drainage problem. In hot weather there is a great deal of condensation that has to drain out. If the drainage pipe is clogged the system cannot drain properly and works less efficiently.

Most air conditioner problems can be prevented with routine maintenance. Berico offers a 17 point AC maintenance plans designed to save you money and energy. If you purchase a maintenance package, a technician will come to your home to check your system to be sure everything is working correctly before hot weather sets in, saving you time and money. Minor repairs and adjustments can be made to keep your system running well so that major problems will not occur. Paying a small fee for this service can keep you from having to pay a large repair bill. It can also extend the life of your air conditioning system. And with routine maintenance to keep your system running as efficiently as possible, you will save money.

If your air conditioner does quit working at any time, in Greensboro your best bet is Berico Heating and Air Conditioning. Berico has provided heating and cooling services to the Greensboro area since 1924. We offer air conditioning installation and repair. Berico technicians are trained in all areas of repair and installation. They keep up to date on changes in the industry through continuous education routines. And Berico offers 24 hour emergency service.

Eden NC Furnace Repair

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Furnace Repair in Eden, NC

Eden NC Furnace RepairNever attempt to perform furnace repair in Eden, NC yourself. A certified technician should always be called when you believe your furnace needs servicing. Listed below are some dangers that a neglected furnace may have. If you suspect any of these in your home, please call Carolina Fuels today at 336-623-9471.

Carbon Monoxide

Some dangers that can arise from faulty furnace repair include carbon monoxide poisoning. Since 2000 there have been more than 100 carbon monoxide deaths in the United States related to furnace or hot water heater issues. A do-it-yourselfer who does not have adequate knowledge of furnaces and furnace repair runs a risk of accidentally allowing carbon monoxide to enter their home. There are two problems from carbon monoxide leaks related to furnaces. One is carbon monoxide poisoning which can cause nauseous and flu-like symptoms. If these leaks occur at night and the people in the house don’t wake up, carbon monoxide can kill. The other potential problem from a gas like is a fire and or explosion. Any spark, such as from faulty wiring or a cigarette lighter could set off an explosion.

Dirty Burners

Sometimes when the burner of a furnace burns yellow instead of white or blue, it means that there is dirt in the burner. If a home owner tries to fix this issue for themselves, they run the risk of starting a fire that can destroy their home. Of course, conversely, if the flame is yellow something must be done or there will be a fire danger from neglect. Calling a furnace repair technician is the safest way to take care of this dangerous situation.

Leak in Gas Line

At times, when there are problems with the flame, and improper ventilation, a home owner may try to fix the issue, and then relight the pilot light on their furnace. The danger in this issue can be an explosion. This danger can vary in severity. If the gas that explodes remains in the compartment where the pilot light is, the person lighting it might be “lucky” and have a fireball come at their head. In this situation a lucky person might only have their hair and eyebrows burned. An unlucky person has their skin and maybe their eyes damaged. If there is a gas leak and the fire reaches it, a true disaster can happen causing death of the person lighting the furnace, and possibly anyone else in the house.

The simple solution to fixing a furnace in Eden, NC and avoiding illness, injury, or even more devastation is to have a professional work on the furnace. There are some tasks around the house that are truly do-it-yourself, and there are other tasks that are best left to the professionals. Call Carolina Fuels today at 336-623-9741 for furnace repair in Eden, Reidsville, Madison, NC and surrounding areas.

Burlington Furnace Repair

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Burlington Furnace RepairThere are many reasons why you may need furnace repair in Burlington, NC. However, some are more common than others. Look below for a list of the 5 most common reasons your furnace or heating system may need to be repaired.

1. Lack of Maintenance

You probably invested hundreds and even thousands of your money into your home heating system. Proper, regular maintenance is imperative to keep your furnace in proper working order. If you neglect regular maintenance, you have a greater risk of experiencing unexpected breakdowns, an increase in energy costs, a poorly performing unit and lots of frustration. Alamance Oil offers service plans to help keep your furnace in good working order.

2. Dirty or clogged filters

Monthly replacement of the filter in your furnace is one of the most important things you can do to extend the life and efficiency of your furnace.

If your filter is dirty it will restrict the air flow. Your unit has to work that much harder to circulate warm air through your home. This puts unnecessary strain on your furnace and results in uncomfortable temperatures and higher energy bills.

3. Mechanical Wear and Tear

Your furnace contains many mechanical parts essential to the proper operation of your furnace. Wear and tear on any of these parts may cause issue with the performance of your unit such as belts and bearings, causing furnace overheating or poor heating control or air flow problems from fan motors. You should call a professional at Alamance Oil if you believe mechanical wear and tear is the cause of a faulty furnace. Do not attempt furnace repair on your own.

4. Pilot or Ignition Control Problems

Along with other mechanical parts, your furnace’s ignition control could be malfunctioning causing intermittent or no heat. In today’s modern system there is typically one of two types of ignition system in place:

  • Hot Surface Ignition or
  • Intermittent Pilot

The hot surface ignition system uses resistance heating element which is somewhat like a filament in a light bulb. It is controlled electronically to ignite the gas burner.

The intermittent pilot system is also electronically controlled but uses a high voltage electrical spark to ignite the gas pilot and then the main burners when the thermostat calls for heat.

5. Thermostat Malfunctions

Your furnace’s thermostat is the device that controls and determines when heat is to be produced and how much. Problems with your thermostat can result in no heat, no fan to force the hot air through your home, or intermittent heat which result in comfort problems.

These common issues can be quickly diagnosed and the problem area identified by one of Alamance Oil’s highly skilled technicians. Call us today at 336-226-9371 and one of our professional technicians will preform an annual tune-up on your furnace or heating system, included in both of our service plans.

An Alamance Oil tune-up includes:

  • Complete diagnostic examination of all components concerning your furnace’s ventilation systems
  • Detailed safety inspection including carbon monoxide detection
  • Condition checks on all other mechanical and electrical components
  • Removal of debris

The safety of your family and loved ones during the heating season is extremely important to us at Alamance Oil. Always remember that furnaces of any age may pose safety hazards from combustion or gases, particularly if a certified technician has not maintained the equipment regularly.