7 Ways to Save Money on Your Air Conditioning Bill This Summer

Nothing feels worse than feeling like you’re living in a pressure cooker. Except maybe that bill that comes at the end of the month. The cost of cooling a home in the middle of summer is astronomical. Especially in some of the hottest areas of the country where cooling costs are easily a few hundred dollars per month.

Luckily, there are a few ways to save money on air conditioning by helping your air conditioner to run better, which will save you a little cash throughout the summer.

These low-cost (or no-cost) tips keep you cool, and save you money, as you beat the heat this summer.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

Most homeowners are losing precious cold air conditioning through unsealed windows and doors. An easy way to check for this is to go outside and run your hand along doors and windows to check for leaking cold air. If you notice a draft, make sure windows and doors are completely shut and freshly caulked around the edges.

Solar screens, window films, and mesh window screens are other options to save money on air conditioning by blocking up to 70 percent of solar energy before it gets into the house. As long as you keep your windows securely closed, these additions can make a big difference.

2. Proper Thermostat Placement

If your thermostat is placed on an exterior wall or near a window, it can register an incorrect reading and prematurely kick on your air conditioner more frequently. You’ll need an HVAC contractor to reposition your thermostat, but it might be worth the call to save money on air conditioning every year. This could also be a great time to upgrade to a smart thermostat which can help you regulate your temperature more carefully.

3. What Temperature Should I Set My Air Conditioner in the Summer?

Before you head out for dinner or on vacation, turn off your air conditioner or turn the temperature up a few degrees. The smaller the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature, the more money you will save on air conditioning.

You can save 10 percent a year on your air conditioning bills by setting your thermostat just 10 to 15 degrees higher for eight hours each day, according to the Energy Office. The US Department of Energy recommends aiming for an indoor temperature of 78 degrees F when you’re not at home. Having a programmable thermostat, you can control from your phone makes this a lot easier to control your setting while you’re away and still ensure your home is comfortable when you arrive.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

4. Avoid Adding More Heat

Try to avoid activities that generate a lot of heat, such as cooking on the stovetop and using the dishwasher or clothes dryer. Instead, cook outside, hang clothes on a line, wash dishes by hand, anything you can do to reduce heat can save money on air conditioning by reducing the overall temperature of the home naturally.

5. Utilize What You Already Have

There are lots of ways to use alternative methods to cool your space. Go old school and turn on fans, close curtains, and blinds. While turning on a fan won’t cool your whole home, it can help your air conditioner to work more efficiently. Ceiling fans can make a huge difference in circulating the air to keep things cool. If you have a basement, chill out there during scorching hot days.

6. Plant Trees Around Your Home

OK, this one might not help next month’s bills, but it will make a huge difference over time. If you can reduce the amount of sunlight that comes through your windows you can also reduce the need to crank up the air conditioning. Using trees or shrubs to shade your home can increase your air conditioner’s efficiency by up to 10 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In the meantime, you can use blackout curtains in west- or east-facing windows to save money on your air conditioning bill.

7. Keep Up with Repairs and Maintenance

Even if you have the most advanced HVAC system, it won’t save money on air conditioning bills if you don’t care for your equipment. Dirty filters can quickly block airflow and make units work harder to cool your home. Simply cleaning and/or replacing filters once per month can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%. Also, be sure that floor registers aren’t blocked with dust—or furniture. The outdoor AC units should also be clear of dirt, leaves, branches, and grass. Make sure indoor and outdoor units are free and clear to give your system the freedom it needs to perform at its best.

Stay Cool

During the hot days of spring and summer, you want to do everything you can to keep your home cool without breaking the bank.  Try a few of these tips for 2-3 months and see what a difference they can make. Simple and inexpensive actions can create maximum savings throughout the year.

If you find that these tips are not saving you money on your air conditioning bill, then the best option is to call a professional HVAC contractor to come out and take a look. Find a licensed local HVAC contractor near you to help keep you cool this summer.

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A Homeowner’s Guide to Air Conditioner Repairs

On a southern summer day, your central AC unit is your lifeline. To prevent your home from becoming too warm and toasty, it’s important to be aware of the most common air conditioner repairs to keep you and your family comfortable when the temperatures start to rise.

Common AC Repairs for Homeowners

Many of the common air conditioner repairs among Kentucky and Indiana homeowners stem from these symptoms:

1. The unit won’t turn on at all or will only hum with no fan function.
2. Odd and loud noises or vibration while running.
3. Blowing weak air or warm air.
4. Condensation or leakage around the base unit.

Most common air conditioner problems can be repaired easily to keep your home and family comfortable, and save you money, too!

If Your AC Unit Isn’t Cooling Properly

It doesn’t take long for your living room to feel like a sauna when your central AC unit isn’t cooling properly. If you notice that your AC unit is running, and the temperature is still rising, it’s important to check the refrigerant, sensor, thermostat, drainage, and/or filter.

Refrigerant

Refrigerant, most often referred to as Freon, is a strong chemical that is responsible for cooling down warm air before helping your HVAC system direct cool air into your home. Sometimes, your system can develop a leak from improper installation, poor maintenance, or faulty refrigerant charging. You want to address these types of leaks immediately because refrigerant can be hazardous to humans, pets, and the environment. If you notice a leak in your system, it’s best to call a professional because of the hazardous nature of the fluid.

Sensor Problems

Most central air conditioners feature some type of temperature sensor. This measures the temperature of the air coming into the evaporator coil to keep your home at the desired temperature. If the sensor is knocked out of position, the air conditioner can’t tell how hot or cool the room is. This can cause it to either cycle constantly and overwork, shut down completely, or behave erratically.

Thermostat Issues

The thermostat is a small box in the middle of your living space that allows you to set the desired temperature of your home. The thermostat detects the temperature of the room and compares it to the desired temperature setting. If the room is too warm or too cold, the thermostat requests heat or air from the central AC unit, depending on the season. If the thermostat is not reading temperature correctly, it causes a communication breakdown and your AC unit won’t respond.

Drainage Problems

The humidity of Kentucky means that your air conditioner has to work extra hard. As the demand on the air conditioner increases, so does the demand on your condensate system. As warm air passes over the evaporator coil, it is cooled and in turn, creates condensation. Throughout the day, it drips, and is collected in a pan and drained from the air conditioning unit. However, if you have a drainage problem, it can cause the unit to shut down. Drain problems can also cause health problems for your family, or damage to your home, and should be addressed quickly.

Dirty Filter

This is the number one cause of common air conditioner repairs. It’s also the easiest to repair. All central AC units have some type of filter. The filter is responsible to keep the air in your home clean. Over time, it becomes dirty and clogged, requiring your system to work harder than it should. Just like replacing your car filters to protect the engine, a clean HVAC air filter protects your furnace system from becoming damaged and, ultimately, failing entirely.

Image Source: Department of Energy

If Your AC Unit Isn’t Turning On…

Most air conditioners are designed to offer cool air throughout your home for 10-20 years. However, if your air conditioner won’t turn on in the middle of summer, that feeling of dread sets in almost immediately. While some common air conditioner repair problems must be handled by a professional, there are several things you can do to identify and solve common air conditioner repairs on your own.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

Electric Control Failure

Problems with the wiring in your unit or the wiring that runs from your unit to an outlet are one of the leading causes of air conditioner breakdowns. First, check the breaker in your power box and check nearby outlets to ensure it’s an AC problem and not an electrical problem. Remember that it is always necessary to cut power off to your unit before inspecting it for wiring-related problems. If your central unit won’t turn on at all, and the electricity in the home is working, you may have a faulty motor. This doesn’t mean you need to replace your entire system. A motor replacement is a fairly common repair that can be done by any HVAC professional.

Thermostat

A faulty thermostat may be the culprit if your unit is not turning on at all. This is an easy situation to diagnose. If you suspect that your thermostat is bad, simply try turning the AC on from the main unit itself. If the central unit will turn on manually, you are likely suffering from a thermostat problem. This can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat unit and reestablishing a strong connection.

If Your AC Unit Is Experiencing Limited Airflow

You can tell the unit is turning on, you can tell it’s producing cold air, but it’s still not cooling your space? This is probably due to limited airflow. Limited airflow is usually caused by a duct issue or a dirty filter.

Ductwork Problems

If you have weak AC airflow in only one or two rooms in your home, it’s probably a ductwork problem. Dampers are essentially valves in your ducts. If they get closed, or partially closed, you may experience weak airflow. To check your dampers, go into your utility room and look for your central HVAC plenum. This is a big, plain, metal box on or near your unit. You should see a bunch of ducts coming out of it, all with levers. These are the dampers to your system. They should all be in the ON position. If they are not, that’s an indication of a closed damper. Simply flip the lever and it should open the duct and produce increased airflow.

Leaking air ducts are another common cause of weak AC airflow. To check for a leaky duct, shine a flashlight in one of your vents and see if you can see any light coming through. If you can, call an HVAC contractor to come out and seal them up, as duct sealing will improve your air conditioner airflow.

Dirty Filters

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of changing your air filter. The purpose of the filters is to catch this dust and debris so you’re not breathing it in every day. This dust and debris builds up and slows down airflow. No matter how clean you keep your house, it’s so important to change your filters every month. Otherwise, they will become so clogged that air is simply not going to be able to get through at all.

Average Costs of Repairs

The average cost of common air conditioner repairs depends a lot on your existing equipment, the type of repair, and parts needed. Some fixes are quick and easy and can be completed in a couple of hours with minimal cost. In other cases, components may need to be replaced and replacement parts may need to be ordered, which increases the overall cost.

On average, the costs for common air conditioner repairs run homeowners about $300. Common AC costs for central cooling system repairs include:

• Replace condensate drain tube – About $20
• Replace condensate drain pump – $240 to $450
• Replace drain pans – $250 to $575
• Flush drain line – $75 to $250
• Recharge refrigerant – $250 to $750
• Repair refrigerant leak – $200 to $1,500
• Replace compressor – $1,900
• Repair outdoor fan motor – $200 to $650
• Replace breakers, relays, or fuses – $75 to $290
• Replace condenser coil – $1,900 to $2,900

Keep in mind that in addition to the cost estimates above, most HVAC contractors charge a service fee or diagnostic that covers time and labor.

This is usually $50-$100 for most air conditioner repairs. If your repair is after hours, on a weekend, or on a holiday, you may expect increased fees.

AC Unit Emergencies

If your central AC unit seems to be working great and is all-of-the-sudden making loud noises, or producing funny smells, it’s important to check the unit immediately. Some symptoms may be a simple fix, while others can be potentially dangerous to your home and family.

Loud Noises

If you hear your AC unit screeching, turn it off immediately. This is typically either from a loose fan belt (which is an easy fix), or a high-pressure compressor (which is a more serious problem). Either way, a high-pitched screeching sound needs the attention of a professional. Other loud noises could be a banging sound, hissing noise, or constant loud humming. All of these are abnormal and indicate that something is wrong on the inside of the system. It is not advised to try and repair noise problems on your own. You should always contact an expert in order to have repairs fixed properly, safely, and professionally.

Odor

If you smell something burning, shut off your air conditioner. Any type of funny smell, especially burning, is most likely the sign of an electrical problem. If you have a gas-powered system, be aware of the “rotten egg” smell, which can be a sign of a gas leak. Any foul smell from your unit should be taken seriously and handled by a professional immediately.

Loss of Airflow

A sudden loss of air flow can be an indicator of something more serious. If you’ve checked your ductwork and filters as discussed above, and you can’t find any apparent thermostat or electrical cause for the loss of power, it could be something more extensive. It’s best to turn off the unit completely and call an AC professional right away.

If you suspect any of these AC emergencies in your unit, it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible. These are not situations that are DIY friendly. Keep your home and family safe and away from the hazard until it can be repaired by a professional.

Working With an HVAC Pro

Solving air conditioner repairs quickly is absolutely essential, especially in warm spring and summer months. At My Trusted Contractor, we focus on providing for the central air conditioning needs for both residential and commercial customers throughout Kentucky and Indiana.

How do you know if you need a quick fix to an AC unit that won’t start or repair a serious leakage repair? Give us a call. We can help with both common air conditioner repairs and emergency repairs, day or night. Your comfort is our top priority. Find a local HVAC contractor near you today!

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What Is a SEER Rating? Air Conditioner Efficiency Explained

Maintaining a balanced home comfort level is more complex than just hitting a few buttons on your thermostat. When it comes to making investments to improve the quality of your living space, it can be hard to balance your budget while trying to be energy efficient, all at the same time.

With summertime surfacing for the states of Kentucky and Indiana, homeowners are gearing up to make sure their AC units are in proper working order. Summers in this region of the country mean both heat and humidity, and it’s critical to be prepared. It’s important to make sure your AC unit is ready to run smoothly, all summer long.

Understanding your AC system and its SEER rating is a great place to start.

What Does SEER Stand For?

SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency ratio”. A SEER rating is determined by your AC unit’s average performance, or the amount of cooling it puts out per the units of energy it uses to do so. It’s important to remember that these ratings are not constant values, and should be viewed as maximum ratings of efficiency instead.

Put simply, the less energy used, the higher the SEER rating. The higher the rating, the greater the efficiency of your AC unit.

The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners begins at 13 SEER, and can reach up to 24 SEER. Understanding your system’s rating can be broken down further for better understanding:

Basic SEER 13-15: These are usually single-stage AC units. In order to be efficient, they must run on their highest setting most of the time. This means that they are probably louder than others, and may create “cold spots” in your home. It’s still a basic air conditioner, but it simply doesn’t perform to the level of a higher ranked model.

Better SEER 16-19: These models are designed to run at 65 percent capacity. This means they aren’t working quite as hard to create the same results. They are often quieter and use less energy. They cool the home evenly and are effective dehumidifiers too.

Best SEER 20-24: The best performing units are sometimes referred to as variable-capacity central air conditioning. These units can function automatically between 25 percent and 100 percent capacity to create the results you want. They are the quietest, most efficient, and best at creating a balanced temperature in your home.

Often, for AC units of higher ratings, homeowners can seek out a return on the investment put into buying a more expensive unit. Depending on the particular unit, homeowners can be eligible to receive tax credits and manufacturer rebates when purchasing a new air conditioning system.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

Locating Your SEER Rating

Understanding your SEER rating is the first step in making sure you are choosing the most energy efficient unit for your budget and your home. Now that you know what it is, the next question you may be asking is “Well, where do I find it?”

We’re glad you asked.

There are a few different ways to locate your SEER rating. The easiest way is to check your condenser unit, located outside of your home. Many newer models of just about any brand of air conditioning unit will have a large, yellow sticker, labeled “Energy Guide”, on the side that will clearly state your unit’s SEER rating, along with a few other bits of information about your unit.

If your system’s yellow sticker is no longer legible due to age, weather, or other factors, try taking a peek at your air handler. Normally, your air handler is located somewhere inside your home, most commonly found in attics or garages. The air handler should also have a sticker full of information, including the SEER rating of your unit.

If all else fails, if you are able to track down the make, model, and serial number of your air conditioner, you can always contact the manufacturer for additional information about your SEER rating. Better yet, you can locate a local, certified dealer of your specific manufacturer’s products, and give them a call.

To see if My Trusted Contractor and our HVAC techs can help you with your SEER rating, simply locate the HVAC contractor nearest you, and give them a call today.

How To Calculate Your SEER Rating

If you’re not threatened by the idea of plugging some numbers into an equation, you can calculate your SEER rating all on your own. All you need is the right information. Follow our simple, five step solution guide, and you’ll have your SEER rating in no time.

Step 1:

SEER ratings are measured in BTUs (British thermal units) per watt-hour of electrical energy used in a cooling season. To find your air conditioner’s BTUs, check your system’s manual, or your Energy Guide sticker we discussed earlier.

Step 2:

While you’re scanning your manual or Energy Guide sticker, also make a note of the watts per hour for your air conditioner. This number will be used later during the calculation process.

Step 3:

Once you’ve gathered your systems BTUs and number of watts per hour, it’s time to start doing the math. First, we’ll calculate for the total amount of BTUs used during a typical cooling season.

Roughly, during the late spring and summer months (May – August), there are about 125 days, or 1,000 hours.

You’ll need to multiply the number of BTUs (the number you gathered in step 1) by 1,000 in order to get the number of BTUs your system has used during the cooling season.

Step 4:

Calculate the number of watts per hour used by multiplying the number you found in step 2 by 1,000. This will give you the grand total of watts per hour used over the entire cooling season.

Step 5:

Finally, divide the total number of BTUs (the result of step 3) by the total number of watts per hour consumed (the result of step 4) to determine your SEER rating.

Knowing how to calculate SEER ratings and understanding the relationship between these numbers and energy usage can help your home stay cool, your family be more energy efficient, all while snagging savings on your monthly electric bills.

Why Your SEER Rating Makes a Difference

Let’s cut right to the chase. Will purchasing or upgrading to a system with a 17 SEER rating save you more money than a 14 SEER rating AC unit would?

Well, if we’re being honest, the answer is no, probably not. While you would see some savings between the two systems, not including what you could also earn on tax credits or rebates, it’s important to remember that the technology that goes into producing AC units with higher SEER ratings also increases their cost.

The difference? And why we believe you should invest in a system with higher SEER ratings anyway? Because of the increased comfort level for your home and family, you’ll see as a result.

Higher performing equipment results in better temperature control and regulated comfort levels. The features that come with higher quality air conditioning units, and in turn, higher SEER ratings, are not working as hard, or starting and stopping as often.

One other important component to consider is that AC units with higher SEER ratings are made with higher quality in mind, meaning they don’t need major AC repairs, replacements, saving you the cost of maintenance when compared to a system with a lower SEER rating.

Partner With A Professional

If SEER ratings and all things air conditioning related are outside your realm, or you just want a second opinion, it’s always a safe bet to contact an industry expert.

When it comes to your AC unit and your efforts in being more energy efficient, the trusted professionals at My Trusted Contractor are here to help.  All of our contractors are trained, vetted, and licensed, to guarantee our customers receive the most professional and qualified service available. Connect with a contractor in your area today for more information!

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How to Choose the Right Type of AC Unit for Your Home

According to the U.S Department of Energy, homeowners across the country spend $11 billion dollars per year to power their AC. That’s a lot of money spent on cool air throughout the year. When it’s time to replace your air conditioning system, it can be an overwhelming situation.

Your AC unit represents a large investment into your home and budget, so you definitely want to get your money’s worth. But how do you know which one is right for your home? Evaluating your AC unit size, high-efficiency features, home requirements, quality, cost, and all of the other features of any air conditioning system is enough to make your head spin. We are here to make it simple and easy to help you make the best choice for your family, home, and wallet.

Types of AC Units

There are six different types of air conditioners that are each designed for a different space/reason. These six types of AC units are the basic central AC, ductless, window unit, portable unit, hybrid, and geothermal.

Central Air Conditioners

A central air conditioner combines the evaporator, condenser, and compressor in a single unit that is placed on a roof or a concrete slab near the foundation. From the unit, ducts running through the exterior wall or roof draw air from inside the house and return cooled air indoors. This type of air conditioner can also be combined with a set of heating coils or a natural gas furnace inside the building.

Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners

This is a good choice for houses that do not have ductwork. The ductless, mini-split systems combine an outdoor compressor and condenser with one or more indoor air-handling units. These units are mounted on the wall with blowers attached. Tubing connects the indoor and outdoor units and circulates refrigerant between them.

Each room in your home will have a separate unit that cools just that room, similar to a window unit. These can be installed without tearing up walls, and allow the temperature to be controlled independently in each room. They can be more energy efficient, but are more expensive if you’re cooling an entire house.

Window Units

These are the most common types of AC units for single rooms. All of the components are enclosed in a single box with a single thermostat gauge that is fitted in a slot made in the wall or window sill where the unit sits.

Portable Units

This is similar to a window system, but it can be moved from room to room. It’s self-contained and freestanding on the floor so you can move it from room to room or apartment to apartment. It only uses an outlet to power on and a window to funnel out the exhaust air.

Hybrid Air Conditioner

Hybrid type of AC unit systems alternate between burning fossil fuels and using electricity to save money and energy while running your system. In the summer, the heat pump works as it normally does, pulling heat from your home and distributing it outdoors. In the winter, your hybrid heat pump system works in reverse, pulling heat from the outside environment and distributing it into your home.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

As a newer method of heating and cooling, geothermal technology is able to extract the heat from below the ground and transfer it into your home. A geothermal coil is installed deep in the ground and can be used to heat and cool your home. In the winter, heat is extracted from the Earth; in the summer, heat is extracted from your home and distributed back into the ground. This is very sustainable, energy efficient, and provides a longer lifespan than other options.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

What Type of Unit is Best for My Home?

Once you know what types of AC units are available, it’s time to decide which one is best for your home. This depends on your budget, square footage, SEER ratings, warranties, and features.

Budget:

$: The cheapest option is a window or portable AC unit that cools a single room. Of course, this is also the least effective option. It’ll cool the space similar to a good room fan, but won’t do much more.

$$: A ductless system can be cost effective if you’re only cooling a few rooms. If you do a whole home on a ductless system, it can add up costs very quickly.

$$$: A central air conditioning unit is more expensive, but also more effective and will last longer than the portable or window options.

$$$$: The most expensive option is a geothermal unit, but it could last you nearly the rest of your life.

Home Square Footage:

This should be your first consideration when choosing types of AC units. You will need an air conditioner that has the output capacity to cool the entire home it is intended for. The central air conditioners that are installed in your home range from 1.5-ton to 5-ton units.

A 1,600-square-foot home will generally require a 3-ton air conditioning unit. Anything over 5-tons is generally considered a light commercial HVAC unit. If your house requires an AC unit of this size, you’ll need to install multiple AC units in tandem.

SEER Ratings:

When comparing central air conditioners, one term you’ll see repeatedly is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER rating. The SEER rating is a measure of how much energy the air conditioner uses to cool a home. Central air conditioners range from 13 to 24 SEER. Experts recommend that people who live in hot and humid climates choose an air conditioner with a SEER of at least 15. They also note that if you have an older system with a SEER of 10, upgrading to a SEER 15 model could cut your air-conditioner utility costs significantly.

Warranties:

Good HVAC manufacturers stand behind their products and most systems are designed to last for 20 years or longer. While it is important to consider warranties that have the longest terms, it’s also important to look at what that warranty covers. Units with lifetime warranties may not cover the cost of labor, or may only cover labor-related expenses during the first year. Some warranties may have various timeframes for different parts or components, so it’s important to ask details about what the warranty does and does not cover.

Energy Saving Features

Air conditioners have been cooling homes for decades, but only recently have they become significantly more efficient. There are a few energy-saving features that are important to look for:

1. Variable speed motors: This feature maximizes the efficiency of airflow because they are able to operate at multiple different speeds depending on the needs of your system at any given time.
2. Automatic fan delay switch: This allows the air handler to run for a brief amount of time after each cooling cycle in order to make use of any remaining cool air by pushing it into your home’s living spaces. This way, it’s not left sitting in the system.
3. Thermal expansion valves: When more cooling is required, the valve increases the flow of refrigerant. When less cooling is required, the valve restricts the flow of refrigerant. This allows your air conditioner to minimize energy consumption while still keeping your home comfortable.
4. Two-stage cooling: Some air conditioners that have compressors with two different cooling outputs (high and low). This way, on milder days, the low setting is used and allows your air conditioner to consume less energy. On hotter days, the high setting is used in order to keep up with your home’s demands. It allows you to be more in control of your home’s settings and your monthly costs.

Protect Your Unit

If you have anything more than a window or portable unit, your air conditioning unit will likely be a big investment. Protecting it is a critical part of maintaining your unit for years to come. The best way to protect your unit is to follow three critical steps:

1. Buy the best unit for your space
2. Have it professionally installed
3. Give your system the regular maintenance it needs to perform at its best.

For help with any of these areas, give My Trusted Contractor a call. We specialize in helping you make the best decision for your home and family, while protecting your investment and providing you with a comfortable space all year long. We also strive to partner you with a professional, local HVAC contractor in your area. For all your HVAC needs, you can count on us.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Air Conditioning

Picture this: It’s a hot, summer day, and you’ve been outside running around with the kids in the backyard. The sun is shining, and the humidity has got you wanting one thing. That one thing, is a blast of cold air as soon as you walk inside. Thanks to Willis Carrier, that was made possible.

Central air conditioning has been improving the quality of our lives for many years now. The first modern electrical air conditioning unit was invented in Buffalo, New York, in 1902.

Air conditioning, formally put, is a system for conditioning the humidity, ventilation, and temperature in a building or vehicle, typically to maintain a cool atmosphere in warm conditions.

We all know that air conditioning has been helping us keep our cool, but in all reality, there’s a little bit more to it than that.

The Six Types of Air Conditioning Units

We all are familiar with that nice big breath of cool, fresh air that hits us when we come inside from being out in the heat. Air conditioning units are complex and there are multiple types of AC units that can function in your home.

Knowing the difference between the different types of AC units can help homeowners in both, Kentucky and Indiana, make more informed decisions about the types of AC units and which one is right for their home. If you’re looking to replace your system, upgrade to a new unit, or are buying for the first time, being informed of all the different options will help you make the best decision.

Central Air Conditioning:

Central air conditioning is the most common type of cooling system, as it is preferable in larger homes across the United States, especially in Kentucky and Indiana. Due to its ability to cool larger areas efficiently, these units are among the most popular and widely used. Installing a system of this kind requires a lot of planning and prep-work, as sizing is crucial to the proper functionality of the system.

Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners:

Ductless, mini-split AC units are more commonly found in different parts of a home. Similar to central air conditioning, these systems have outdoor compressors and indoor handling units. Ductless, mini-split systems can have up to four different handling units, all of which are connected to the outside unit, to make cooling individual rooms throughout your home a much more simple task. Ductless systems are a great solution to rooms that are added onto a house, as well.

Window Air Conditioners:

As old fashioned as it may sound, window air conditioners are still found in many homes throughout Kentucky and Indiana. This specific type of AC unit functions to cool a room by pulling in the warm air, and blowing the cool air back into the room. These units are normally found in smaller living spaces, as they are more efficient in the cooling efforts of a single room, and not a whole house.

Portable Air Conditioners:

Portable air conditioners are becoming more popular, as they are considered the next generation of window units. Portable AC units take air from the room and cool it, and then direct it back into the same room. The unit then vents any warm air outside from an exhaust hose that is installed in the window. Although these systems are also designed to cool only one room, they are easy to install, versatile, and one of the more affordable options.

Hybrid Air Conditioning:

An interesting method of cooling, hybrid systems are actually heat pumps with diverse functionality. Hybrid systems alternate between burning fossil fuels and using electricity to run. This type of system chooses between the two energy sources in order to save both money and energy.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling:

Geothermal technology has quickly become a popular method of heating and cooling, due to its sustainability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. Since the ground temperature remains a consistent 55 degrees year round, despite the temperature of the atmosphere, geothermal technology is able to extract the heat from below the surface of the ground and transfer it into your home. Coils are installed deep into the ground, as a method of transferring the energy into your home for the purposes of heating and cooling.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

Parts and Pieces of Your AC System

To most homeowners, knowing your AC unit is working properly during the warmer months of the year is a priority. However, keeping your home comfort level at a temperature that’s just right for you and your family requires a lot of behind the scenes work.

There are several unique components that make up a standard air conditioner. The biggest job of your AC unit is to cool your home, but each part of your system works in conjunction to perform other tasks, too. These other tasks include monitoring and regulating air temperature via your thermostat, removing airborne particles, and controlling the humidity levels within your home.

There are seven major parts and pieces that make up your AC unit:

Evaporator: This is where cooling coils remove heat and humidity from the air, using refrigerant.

Blower: A blower circulates air over the evaporator and dispenses the chilled air.

Condenser: Hot coils release the collected heat into the outside air.

Compressor: This is a pump that moves the refrigerant between the evaporator and the condenser to chill the indoor air.

Fan: A fan blows air over the condenser, for the purpose of dissipating the heat outside.

Filter: The filter of your AC unit is used to remove particles from the air that will be pushed into your home.

Thermostat: Most homeowners think of the thermostat as a separate piece of equipment, but in all actuality, the thermostat is one of the most important components of your AC unit. The thermostat allows homeowners to have total control over the regulation of the amount of cool air that is distributed throughout your home.

Image Source: Department of Energy

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER ratings and your AC system go hand in hand. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t buy a car if the make and model had bad reviews or low ratings, would you? Your air conditioning unit and its SEER rating are just like that.

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Simply put, a SEER rating is a measurement of an air conditioner’s cooling capacity compared to its power input over a cooling season. These are seen as maximum ratings, rather than constant values.

In other words, the higher the rating, the greater the efficiency of your air conditioning unit.

SEER ratings can fall anywhere between 13 SEER and 24 SEER. Often, homeowners are faced with the issue of investing more money into a higher quality, more efficient system. However, don’t forget to check manufacturer’s rebates and local tax credits for your Kentucky or Indiana city, as these can bring down the cost of a higher rating SEER system.

Protect Your Air Conditioner With a Professional

Part of making sure your AC unit stays in proper working order is simply just taking care of it with regular maintenance checkups. You simply cannot afford to wait until something goes wrong. Routine maintenance of your system and its components, and any air conditioner repairs performed by an HVAC professional are the most fulfilling ways to ensure the longevity of your system.

Inspired by homeowners just like you, My Trusted Contractor is here to provide you with a local, trusted HVAC professional to take care of your AC system. Stay cool all summer long with the help of our expert technicians. For more information about air conditioning, or to find a contractor in your area, simply contact us today.

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From the Experts: An In-depth Look into Your HVAC System

Next to perhaps running water, your HVAC system is the most important asset to your home. Americans spend over $11 billion per year on the monthly costs to heat and cool their homes. That represents a significant investment in keeping your home and family comfortable throughout the year.

Your HVAC system protects your home and everything inside from moisture, heat exposure, and frigid temperatures. Understanding your HVAC system and how to care for it can extend the life of your unit and save you on monthly costs.

How Long Do HVAC Units Last?

Take a look at your shoes. For some people, shoes are easily replaced, lost, or broken at least once a year. Others are wearing the same carefully cared for Vans from high school. The same can be said for your HVAC system.

Most systems come fresh from the manufacturer made to last 10-20 years. The rest is up to you. One of the most common myths of HVAC is that a system can last at least 10 years longer than manufacturers indicate. Pushing your system too far can cause bigger problems in your home.

There are several different factors that go into projecting how long a system should last. Nick Rohan, CEO of RESSAC Climate Control Technologies in California said, “It varies based on run-time hours per day, proximity to corrosive contaminants, how well the equipment has been maintained, whether any major repairs or retrofits have been made, and whether the equipment services mission-critical spaces and can’t afford to break,” he said. “Based on these variables, we see a lifetime range of 10-30 years with 20 years being the average.”

Air conditioners are typically the first to go out because they are outside and exposed to the elements. Furnaces last longer, but whether you’ll need to replace it at 8 years or still be running strong at year 23 depends on the climate it’s used in, your living habits, and your HVAC maintenance routine.

Tom Beaulieu, president of Bay Area Services Inc. said, “As a consumer and professional, I expect furnaces to last 20 years…My definition of ‘end of life’ for any appliance is when the unit has been in operation for more than two-thirds of its expected life and needs repairs that exceed 25 percent of the full replacement cost.”

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Heating and Cooling System

If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time to replace your HVAC system, chances are the answer is yes. In some cases, a good maintenance checkup or a small repair may be sufficient, but there are some clear signs that will help determine if your system needs a complete replacement.

1. It is near the end of its average life expectancy. The Department of Energy recommends homeowners replace their HVAC system every 10 to 15 years. While today’s AC units are durable, the major components will begin to deteriorate over time and with heavy use.
2. A repair cost is more than half the price of a new system. If your AC is out and you’re wondering whether to repair or replace, it mostly comes down to numbers. If your repair will cost 50% or more of the new system cost, AND its upward 10 years old, it’s time to replace.
3. Your energy bill keeps increasing, but your rate remains the same. Your utility bills will fluctuate during the year, but if you notice your bills are increasing consistently, it could be a problem. This is usually because your system is starting to deteriorate and is working harder to maintain the same temperature, causing an increase in utility bills.
4. You have trouble keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. Even if you keep your thermostat the same, you may start to notice your air conditioning is having a harder time keeping up. This is a sign that it is no longer powerful enough to get the job done and it may be time to replace.
5. Reduce Air Quality. Part of the responsibility of an AC system is to provide proper ventilation throughout the home. If you notice more dust, dander, dirt, mold, mildew or humidity, your AC isn’t doing its job.
6. Weird smells. Any time you notice an odor from your ventilation system, you want to have it checked by an HVAC contractor as soon as possible. This can be a serious situation, or it could be nothing more than built-up dust burning off. Either way, weird smells are a sure indicator that something isn’t right.
7. Odd sounds like grinding or squealing. Most HVAC systems are pretty quiet. You may hear a fan turn on, but nothing more than that and certainly not any grinding, screeching or banging. Any unusual sounds are a sure sign that your system needs attention ASAP.

Just because your HVAC system is not working at 100% capacity, doesn’t mean it’s automatically time for a replacement. It could be a simple HVAC repair.

Common Repairs

It is always a good idea to investigate your heating and cooling problems with a professional. This can help you avoid any problems that might cause your air conditioner to malfunction and save some money. Many of the common problems are not DIY HVAC repairs, but should be handled by a professional HVAC technician. Here are a few of the most common problems areas to check:

1. Malfunctioning Thermostat: This is one of the easiest and simple fixes. If your thermostat isn’t showing anything you need to invest in a few AAA’s and you’ll be good to go. Dead batteries are more common than you think and should be the first line of defense with any AC issue.
2. Tripped circuit breaker: Check your breaker box next. Chances are, one of them connects to your HVAC system. Reset that and then try the system again. Make sure the breaker isn’t being overloaded with other things. If it trips frequently, you might want to call an HVAC professional.
3. Blown fuse or transformer: This is similar to a dead battery in your car. You’ll need to have it replaced before the machine is going to work, but it’s much cheaper than a whole new HVAC (or a new car). Unless you’ve got special training, it’s best to call an HVAC professional at this point.
4. Dirty coils: If the air coming out of your vents isn’t as “cool” as you’d like, it could be due to dirty coils. This is generally due to a lack of maintenance. If they get really dirty, they can’t remove heat properly and circulate hot air.
5. Clogged air filter: Chances are you’ve heard this one before. Too many people aren’t changing their air filters, and it causes big problems for the system. When the filter is clogged the system can just freeze up and stop working entirely.

6. Damaged Components: Check the actual unit itself to make sure it hasn’t been damaged. Landscapers, children, a falling limb, several things can damage an outdoor system. No HVAC system is impenetrable.

If you’re unsure what’s causing your HVAC problems, hire a licensed HVAC contractor to evaluate the problem and provide an honest solution.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

Benefits of Replacing Dated Units

Although replacing your entire system with a new HVAC installation may seem like an overwhelming and stressful endeavor, it can actually be one of the greatest changes for your home. Replacing old units is safer, easier, and often cheaper than running them into the ground.

• Saves you money on your energy bill –  You want to make sure your system is performing at its most efficient level, you also want to save money. This is the two-fer of a new HVAC system. It saves you money in utility costs, while keeping you comfortable.

• More comfort – Today’s HVAC systems can provide more even temperatures throughout your home than older systems. You can precisely adjust temperatures for rooms throughout your home, times of day, days of the week, etc.

• Reduced noise –  Newer HVAC systems are almost silent. They have high-tech sound absorbing materials to keep their motor and running noises to a minimum. No more turning up the TV every time the AC fan kicks on.

• More “green” options; More energy efficient – New high-efficiency HVAC systems use about a third less fuel as compared to older models. So, not only are you saving money in the long run, but you are also reducing your carbon footprint and producing less waste.

• Wider variety of add-ons; programmable thermostats, humidifiers, etc. – Thermostats have come a long way in recent years. Today, you can program the thermostat to remain at a temperature that limits energy consumption while you’re at work. Then turn it on while you’re sitting in traffic. You can shut it off while on vacation, and have the house comfortable by the time you land.  All you have to do is pull out your smartphone to adjust anytime, anywhere.

• Higher resale value – If you are planning to sell your home anytime soon, it’s worth replacing your system. You’ll be able to recoup part of the costs in resale, and chances are your buyers will ask you to replace it anyway.

• Tax credit – In some areas, you can get a serious tax credit for disposing of old, inefficient systems and replacing them with high-efficiency options. This is definitely worth looking into to see if you can actually get paid to install a new HVAC.

• More extended warranties – With today’s units, you don’t have to worry about it going out next year and replacing it again. Most manufacturers will offer extended warranties that give you peace of mind moving forward.

Different Types of HVAC Systems

Long gone are the days of using fire or an open window to heat and cool your home. Today, there are several different options when it comes to keeping your home comfortable. Each system has a specific purpose so you can find the one that suits your home or business.

Split System

This is the most common system. It is made up of an outdoor unit containing the condenser and compressor, and an indoor unit containing the evaporator coil and blower connected to a furnace. If you need a furnace, but not AC this is the most efficient and cheapest system.

Hybrid Heat Pump System

In this system, there is a heat pump powered by electricity and used in conjunction with a furnace. The heat pump is the primary source of heating and cooling, but when the temperature drops below a certain temperature, the furnace kicks in to produce heat. This is great when you need an AC, but it doesn’t dip below 40 degrees very often.

Ductless System

This does not use ductwork to heat or cool a home. Instead, individual units are placed in specific rooms that are connected to an outdoor unit with small tubes that carry the refrigerant. This can be a great option if you only need to cool one or two rooms.

Packaged System

A packaged HVAC system contains the compressor, condenser, and evaporator all in one unit, often located on a roof or near the foundation of the building or home. This is a great option for homes that do not have the required space for separate components like in a split system.

Each of these systems is great for their intended purposes but are not all intended for every situation. For expert advice on which type of system is best for your Indiana or Kentucky home, use our selector to find local, licensed HVAC contractors in your area.

How much does a new heating and air conditioning system cost?

Any homeowner knows that a new HVAC system will hurt their wallet, but it is a necessary expense to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. For an entirely new system, which includes air conditioner, furnace, and ductwork the average price ranges from $6,000 to $8,000. This can increase based on where you live, the size of your house, brand, contractor installation fees, and level of efficiency of the system.

While the price is high, it’s important to understand the factors that make up that cost. It could help lessen the blow a bit.

• Size: Bigger is more expensive, but doesn’t always mean it’s better. If you purchase a unit that is too big for your space, you’ll overpay on your utility costs each month. You want to choose the correct size based on your square footage and climate.
• Quality: There are luxury brands and budget brands, each brand offers something slightly different. The best HVAC brands will last 18-25 years and come with a more comprehensive warranty. Budget brands may only last 10 years or so, but the overall cost is lower.
• Performance: HVAC units are measured with a “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating” or a SEER rating. This score determines whether they outperform other models by the same manufacturer. A SEER score of 13-15 is the lowest performing whereas scores of 20-24 are the top performers.
• Efficiency: This is a combination of choosing the right size and the right unit for your climate. Efficiency is measured in BTUs and is usually determined by the climate you live in. If you live in a hotter climate, you need a system with a higher BTU (22-30).

Your Comfort is our Priority

Don’t let your HVAC system stress you out. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether it’s time to replace your system, or simply make a fix to keep running it. You can easily make this determination by diagnosing the problem and running the numbers. Sometimes replacing your system will bring hidden benefits you had not even considered. If it is time to replace, determine the best type, size, and features of your new system and don’t forget to check for tax incentives as well.

If an HVAC repair or HVAC system replacement is in your future, find a professional, local, licensed HVAC contractor to keep your home comfortable all year round.

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