Is your air conditioner starting to show some unusual behavior? It may be a warning that it’s time to replace it. There are a variety of signs that indicate an air conditioner may be on its last legs, and replacing it before it gives out completely is wise. If you need AC replacement in Reidsville, call Carolina Fuels (336) 623-9741 or schedule HVAC service. 

 

Warning Signs of a Dying Air Conditioner

 

• Unusual noises. Is your AC making a lot of noise? Or are you hearing noises from it that don’t seem normal? A worn-out air conditioner tends to get noisy, and those sounds are often a sign that it will soon need to be replaced. 

• Fluid leaks. Do you see liquid around your outdoor unit? Other than a small amount of condensation, there should not be fluids coming out of your air conditioner. Depending on the severity of the leak, this could mean a replacement is necessary. 

• Uneven cooling. Do some areas of your home seem cool and others not? If your air conditioner is not able to cool your home evenly, it may be reaching its end. 

• Low airflow. First, check your filters to make they aren’t clogged. If the filters seem fine but airflow is low, you may have a problem that is not easily repaired. System replacement could be on the horizon. 

• Air isn’t cool. Is the air coming from your vents is warm instead of cool? This is a sign of major AC malfunction that could result in the need for replacement. 

• Needs frequent repairs. Has your HVAC repairman been your most frequent visitor? When your AC needs to be repaired more than twice in a year, it may be time to consider replacing it instead. 

• It’s more than 10 years old. The age of your air conditioner could be reason enough to replace it. Air conditioners have an average life span of 10-15 years. If your system is older than 10 years it significantly less efficient than a new system. Replacing it could save you money on your monthly energy bill. 

• Energy bills are on the rise. A rising energy bill is an indicator that your AC is not operating properly. A malfunctioning machine uses more energy than it should, and your bill may show it. 

• An expensive repair is needed. If your AC requires a repair that costs over half the total cost of a new unit, your best option may be to go ahead and replace it, especially if it is an older system. 

• Poor air quality. If you notice strange smells, especially a musty smell, you could have mold growing in your system which can be extremely harmful to your respiratory system. If you see more dust on surfaces or blowing around your home, this is also abnormal. A total system replacement may be necessary to eliminate these allergens. 

 

Reliable AC Replacement in Reidsville by Carolina Fuels

If you notice any of these 10 signs, call Carolina Fuels for an AC evaluation: (336) 623-9741 or schedule HVAC service. Your Carolina Fuels technician will give you an honest recommendation on whether or not you need AC replacement in Reidsville. You don’t have to fear the cost, because affordable financing options are available. And with a new high-efficiency system, you could even save money on a monthly basis and in the long term. Call Carolina Fuels today and replace that old machine before it can quit on you. 

The most common type of HVAC System is forced air. Forced air HVAC systems, consisting of a furnace and an air conditioner, require ductwork to move air around your home in order to provide heating and cooling. Forced air HVAC systems are cost-effective and energy-efficient, making them a popular choice for most homeowners. 

Whether you already have a forced-air HVAC system with ductwork in place or you’re facing AC replacement in Burlington and wondering whether a forced-air system is right for you, there are three main things you should know about HVAC ductwork. 

 

• How Ductwork Functions. Ductwork is a series of metal or fiberglass tubing that connects the air conditioner and furnace to the rest of the home. The primary function of the ductwork is to move air from the intake vents into the AC or furnace for conditioning (heating or cooling) and then around to each room of a home. Ducts are insulated and sealed to keep conditioned air in and unconditioned air out. There are other parts that play a key part in the function of the ductwork, such as filters that keep out dust and dirt, and the blower that forces the air through the ducts. 

• Proper Installation is Key. Ductwork must be properly installed in order to effectively transport air. It’s important that the installer has training and experience in HVAC duct installation. The biggest concern is to be sure to adequately seal any seams between ducts. Leaks can cause lack of efficiency as conditioned air escapes and unconditioned air seeps in. Quality materials play an important role in preventing leaks during ductwork installation and in future operation.

• Keeping Ductwork Clean and Maintained. While proper installation is crucial, regular maintenance is necessary to keep ductwork operating properly. Even when you change your filters regularly, over time dust, pollen, and other small particles from the air manage to get past the filters and end up in the ducts. Cracks or holes that sometimes develop over time can allow pests to get inside the ducts and nest. Shifting due to house settling or changes in temperature can cause leaks to form. Professional ductwork cleaning and maintenance can restore ducts to their best working condition for optimal energy efficiency and prevent the spread of allergens throughout your home. 

 

AC Replacement in Burlington by the Experts at Alamance Oil 

Forced air HVAC systems can be installed in existing homes or as part of new home construction. In new construction, the ductwork can be built into the design so that it is invisible once the home is finished. Ductwork can be fitted into an existing home using a variety of methods to conceal them, such as the use of attic and storage space when available. Alamance Oil has the experience and training necessary to properly install your ductwork as part of your AC replacement in Burlington. Whether you need ductwork installation or maintenance, call Alamance Oil: (336) 226-9371.

What’s the number one reason homeowners opt out of yearly HVAC maintenance? The cost. You don’t want to pay for AC repair in Greensboro when nothing seems to be wrong with your system. But the reality is that preventative maintenance can actually save you money, in three specific ways.

• Energy Efficiency. One way that AC maintenance can save you money is through increased energy efficiency.

• As your air conditioner operates it accumulates dirt, dust, and grime that needs to be cleaned out. When your evaporator coil (the part that holds the refrigerant and does most of the work cooling the air that eventually goes through your ducts to cool your home) gets dirty it inhibits its cooling capabilities. The dirt insulates the coil, keeping the heat from transferring as it should, which can cause your system to freeze over or fail to achieve your desired indoor temperature.

• As parts wear out they need to be replaced. Otherwise, your system can fail at any time when a part breaks, and you won’t be able to predict when.

• Lubrication dries up and the moving parts of your air conditioner won’t move as easily. The friction that results causes your system to work harder than it should and parts wear out faster than they typically would.

• Fewer Repair Fees. Unexpected repairs can result in you paying more for services. For example:

• Emergency or after-hours fees. When you have to call an HVAC service to come out for a repair after normal business hours, such as nights or weekends, you may pay a higher fee.

• Frequent repairs needed. An HVAC system that is not regularly tuned up is likely to break down more often and require more frequent repairs, which will cost more in the long run than the upfront cost of yearly maintenance.

• Longer AC Lifespan. An HVAC system that receives regular maintenance will last longer than one that doesn’t. Much like a car or any other working machine, taking proper care of it will allow you to get more years of quality performance out of it. If you’ve ever had to replace your HVAC system, you know that’s a pretty significant financial undertaking. You don’t want to have to do it often or prematurely, which is more likely to happen without routine maintenance.

 

Save Even More when you choose Berico AC Repair in Greensboro

Now that you know the top 3 ways that AC maintenance can save you money, you should know all the ways Berico can save you even more. When you schedule yearly AC repair in Greensboro with a Berico technician, you receive the following additional benefits:

• 20% off all repairs
• 20% off diagnostic fees
• No after-hours charges on repairs
• Priority Service
• $50 in Bonus Bucks (can be used toward new equipment)
• $500 off a new oil or propane furnace

A Comfort and Protection Service Plan from Berico includes yearly AC maintenance and all of the above benefits. Get the best performance out of your HVAC system and save money at the same time. Call to schedule your maintenance appointment today: (336) 273-8663.

A propane gas leak is a very serious matter, and should not be taken lightly. While propane is a safe fuel that only burns at very high temperatures, a leak could lead to a high concentration of gas in a certain area and a spark could cause it to ignite. If you smell gas or suspect a leak for any reason, your Reidsville propane supplier, Carolina Fuels, recommends taking the following steps.

Step 1: Put Out Any Source of Flame or Spark. If you’re grilling, turn off your grill. If you’re home, turn off your furnace. Put out candles and any other source of flame. Do not use electricity.

Step 2: Turn off the Gas Valve on your Propane Tank. If you can, turn your propane off at the tank valve. Simply turn it clockwise until it won’t turn any further. If you can’t figure out how to turn it off or if you are having trouble turning the valve, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Get Away. If you smell propane inside your home, get yourself and your family out immediately. If you smell propane outside, leave the vicinity. Do not go back inside your home. Get to a safe distance before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Call your Reidsville Propane Supplier. Once you are a safe distance away, use your cell phone or another phone to call your propane supplier and alert them that there may be a leak. If you can’t get your propane company on the phone, call 911. Your local fire department will respond to a potential gas leak if necessary.

Step 5: Stay Away until the Area is Deemed Safe. Do not return to your home until it is determined to be safe according to your propane supplier or another emergency responder. Only take the word of a professional in this case.

Prevent Propane Gas Leaks with Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Propane gas leaks are not common, but unfortunately they can happen. However, you can help prevent them by scheduling routine inspection and maintenance for your tank and gas line. Your Reidsville propane supplier will typically do an inspection when refilling your tank. But if it’s been a while since your last refill, it would be wise to have an inspection. Large tanks won’t necessarily need to be refilled every year; it depends on the amount of propane your household uses. For ultimate safety, an inspection should be done yearly whether or not you get a refill.

Carolina Fuels Performs Propane Tank and Gas Line Inspections

Safe propane use is a top priority for Carolina Fuels. Whether you’re new to propane use or you’re a seasoned pro, always exercise proper safety precautions when it comes to your propane tank, gas line, and appliances. If you’re ever unsure about any aspect of your propane, contact your Reidsville propane supplier, Carolina Fuels: (336) 623-9741. Consider signing up for a Comfort and Protect Service Plan for regular HVAC maintenance and propane delivery. Your inspections and tank refills will be automatic, meaning you don’t have to try and remember to call. Let Carolina Fuels handle all of your propane and home comfort needs.

Spring is a season of fresh starts. Many people perform a spring cleaning regiment both inside and outside of their home. Whether or not you do any spring cleaning, it’s important to clean your propane appliances each year, and spring is an ideal time to do it. Greensboro propane supplier, Berico, suggests these spring cleaning tips for your propane appliances.

Your Furnace Needs Yearly Cleaning and Maintenance

It may seem counter-productive to clean you propane furnace at the end of the heating season, but there’s actually a good reason to do so. After a long, cold winter your furnace has worked hard to keep your home warm and cozy for the past few months. Soot, dust, and dirt have likely built up in your furnace, filters, and ducts. When that stuff sits in your system during the hot, humid months it can cause rusting and other damage to your furnace. For thorough cleaning, call Berico and schedule a tune-up. The experts know just what to do to clean up your furnace at the end of the cold season.

It’s Time to Fire Up the Grill for some Backyard Barbecues—But First, Clean it

Your grill has probably been sitting outside all winter, perhaps under a cover, but still unused and exposed to the elements. Even if it’s been inside a garage or screened-in porch the dust and grime can build up inside. Scrub the grates and the inside of the grill. Empty the drip can. If your propane tank is still connected, check the connection and the condition of the tank itself. Also, check the propane level and get a refill or swap your tank if necessary. Make sure your grill is clean and free of debris before you light it for the first time.

Clean all your Indoor Propane Appliances from the Fireplace Logs to the Clothes Dryer

• Cleaning Fireplace Logs. When it comes to propane fireplace logs, yearly cleaning is important, especially for the non-vented type. Follow these step-by-step instructions for cleaning your gas fireplace logs. Or take the easier, safer route and call Berico for this service.
• Cleaning your Clothes Dryer. The biggest issue with clothing dryers is lint build up. Follow these instructions for deep cleaning your dryer. Be sure to always turn off the propane supply to your dryer before cleaning.
• Cleaning your Water Heater. Plumbers recommend flushing your water heater yearly. It could be a DIY project with experience, but it may be best to call your plumber for this service. When it comes to propane water heaters, the propane line and related parts should be inspected and cleaned by your propane supplier. Berico can handle this portion.

Berico can Clean all of your Greensboro Propane Appliances in One Maintenance Appointment

The most convenient way to spring clean all of your propane appliances is to let Berico do it for you. Call and schedule a maintenance appointment this spring and get all of your appliances cleaned and tuned up at once. Berico will also inspect your propane tank and gas line and refill it if needed. You’ll be ahead of the game way before fall when you’ll need your furnace again. Call Berico, your trusted Greensboro propane supplier and schedule an appointment today: (336) 273-8663.