Author: acshvac

Your water heater is a silent but essential workhorse, providing hot water for your showers, laundry, and dishes in your Tucson, home.

But like any hardworking appliance, it can run into issues from time to time. Knowing the signs that your water heater needs repair can save you from a cold shower or a major plumbing disaster. Here are five key indicators from ACS Air Conditioning Services that your water heater might be in trouble:

1. Inconsistent Water Temperature

One of the most common signs that your water heater needs attention is inconsistent water temperature.

If your hot water fluctuates between scalding and icy cold, it could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat or heating element. In some cases, sediment buildup in the tank can cause uneven heating. A professional plumber at ACS Air Conditioning Services can diagnose the issue and determine whether it’s a simple fix or more significant repairs are needed.

2. Unusual Noises

Water heaters are generally quiet, so if you hear rumbling, popping, or banging noises from the tank, it’s a red flag.

These noises are often caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When the sediment is heated, it can create steam bubbles that make the water heater sound like it’s boiling. Over time, this sediment can cause significant damage to the tank and heating elements in your Tucson, home, so it’s best to address the issue sooner rather than later.

3. Rusty or Discolored Water

If your hot water is rusty or discolored, it could indicate corrosion inside the tank. This problem can occur when the tank’s protective anode rod, which prevents corrosion, becomes depleted.

Rusty water not only affects the appearance of your water but can also indicate your water heater is deteriorating and may soon develop leaks. A ACS Air Conditioning Services plumber can inspect the tank and anode rod and recommend the best course of action.

4. Water Heater Leaks

Any sign of water pooling around your water heater is a serious concern. Leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, including a broken valve, a cracked tank, or loose fittings.

If not addressed promptly, leaks can lead to significant water damage and mold growth. If you notice water around your heater or hear dripping noises, call ACS Air Conditioning Services immediately to assess and repair the situation.

5. Age of the Water Heater

Water heaters operate efficiently for around 10-15 years. If your water heater is approaching or surpassing this age range, it may be time to consider replacement.

Even if you’re not experiencing any specific issues, an outdated water heater will lose efficiency and cost more to run. Regular maintenance can help extend its lifespan, but it’s also worth replacing it for your Tucson, home if the unit is nearing its expiration date.

Water Heater Repairs in Pima County

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to keeping your water heater running smoothly in your Tucson, home. Contact ACS Air Conditioning Services at 520-230-5668 or request service online to schedule a plumbing inspection and perform any necessary repairs.

By staying on top of these issues, you can ensure a steady supply of hot water and avoid the hassle of unexpected breakdowns.

Remember, a well-maintained water heater contributes to the overall efficiency of your home’s plumbing system. Look for these signs and take action before a minor issue turns into a major problem.

Should you repair or replace? That’s always the big question when it comes to major home systems like air conditioning (AC).

Repairs are easier on the pocketbook in the short run, but too many of them can add up.

Deciding on the ideal time to replace your air conditioning system in Oro Valley can be a challenge, so here are three areas our ACS Air Conditioning Services professionals suggest you monitor for telltale signs:

1. Check the age of your air conditioner.
Most air conditioners have an average life span of 10 to 15 years with regular usage. If you run your air conditioning system constantly through unusually hot summers, you may shorten that life span.
On the other hand, lighter usage or cooler weather may mean your unit lasts significantly longer.
Although age alone does not signal an automatic need for a new air conditioner, it should play a factor in your decision. If you notice your current unit is not performing as well and you require more repairs on a system that’s reaching the end of a typical life span, it’s probably a good time to make the investment.

1. Evaluate the performance and efficiency.
Pay attention to how your air conditioner is performing, as well as to your energy bills. If you have taken care of your air conditioning system with regular maintenance, but begin to notice the unit is not cooling as quickly, as well, or as evenly as it used to, this may be a sign that it’s time to look for a new air conditioner.

In addition, take a close look at the cost of running your air conditioner. New units are always more energy-efficient than older ones, and technological developments often boost the performance of the newest models.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), high-efficiency air conditioners can reduce energy usage by 20 to 50 percent per year.

1. Gauge your home’s air quality.
A well-functioning air conditioner should not only keep your Oro Valley home cooler, but it should also improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) by reducing the humidity and minimizing allergens such as mold. When the weather is particularly humid in Arizona, your air conditioner will have to work much harder.
Not only will your system need to remove heat, but it will also need to remove moisture from the air. Over time, this will tax your air conditioning system, making it more difficult to handle humidity. If you notice more moisture in your air, as well as decreased air quality, you may want to invest in a new system.

Call Today for AC Service in Oro Valley

Our licensed HVAC technicians at ACS Air Conditioning Services are well-versed in all makes and models of air conditioners here in Oro Valley, AZ. We would be happy to help diagnose any problems you are facing, as well as make recommendations for repair or replacement. Call us at 520-230-5668 or request service online today!

In today’s world of do-it-yourself everything, where answers to all questions seem only a Google search away, it’s easy to be tempted to take on things that may be out of our range of experience. Although this can be a way to learn new skills, the area of electrical work should always be left to a qualified electrician. Tackling electrical maintenance or repairs without professional training can cause serious injury or death as well as lead to things like fire hazards in your Oro Valley home.

Our team at ACS Air Conditioning Services wants to help keep you and your family safe when it comes to basic electrical safety issues in and around your Arizona home. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

Indoor Electrical Safety

As modern lifestyles require more of the latest technology, systems, and electronics, we find ourselves using additional electricity throughout our homes. Be sure that your home can handle the extra load and is updated as needed. Here are some tips about indoor spaces:

• Avoid using extension cords as long-term solutions. Ask our electrician to install additional outlets in your indoor spaces if needed.
• If you need to use extension cords as short-term solutions, avoid running them across doorways, under carpets or in other areas where they can be tripping hazards or become damaged, which could lead to shock.
• Don’t overload your outlets with too many items. Plug in only one major appliance per outlet, and avoid using power strips to expand your electrical needs in a single area.
• Be sure to replace damaged electrical cords. Do not attempt to repair worn-out cords using duct tape or even electrical tape as a long-term solution.
• Replace old outlet with tamper-resistant outlets, which have spring-loaded shutters that close off unused electrical outlets.
• Make sure your kitchens, bathrooms and other areas where the combination of water and electricity are used have outlets with ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). GFCI outlets monitor the power going into items and automatically cut the power if an appliance is accidentally dropped into water. Electricity flows through water, and you can easily be shocked or electrocuted by a submerged appliance.
• Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) in all appropriate places, such as bedrooms. These devices can distinguish between arcs that are harmless and those that can result in an electrical fire.

Outdoor Electrical Safety

Today, many tools and toys popular for outdoor use also require electricity. Here are some tips to staying safe outside.

• Use only power tools that are marked for outdoor use. These power tools are often equipped with heavy-duty cords and other safety features, such as protection from damp conditions, to keep you safe while using them outside.
• Store electrical tools indoors. Even tools marked for outdoor use should be stored in a dry environment such as a basement or garage.
• Keep tools away from children and pets when not in use.
• Keep the area around your electric meter clear from shrubbery and overgrowth.
• Replace any damaged cords before using them. Bare or damaged wires can be a fire and electrocution hazard.
• Use only extension cords that are marked for outdoor use as they are manufactured to be more durable and have special protection against rain and elements.
• Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from overhead power lines. Call your electric utility company if tree branches are touching power lines in your yard.

OSHA Safety Tips

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), you should assume that all overhead wires are energized at lethal voltages. Here are some tips about public electrical lines:

• Never assume that a wire is safe to touch even if it looks insulated.
• Never touch a fallen overhead power line.
• Call your local electric utility company to report fallen electrical lines.
• Stay at least 10 feet away from overhead wires.
• If an overhead wire falls across your vehicle while you are driving, stay inside the vehicle and continue to drive away from the line.
• If your car engine stalls with an electrical line touching it, do not leave your vehicle. Warn people not to touch the vehicle or the wire. Call the local electric utility company’s emergency phone number.

You Can Rely on Us

Our experienced professionals at ACS Air Conditioning Services in Oro Valley, AZ can provide more details about your electrical needs. You can contact us online, or call us at 520-230-5668.

Your air conditioner lives in your home full time—why not get acquainted with it?

By learning a bit about your AC’s components and functions, you’ll have an easier time caring for it. Problems will be easier to identify and communicate to one of our Air Conditioning Services specialists.

You’ll also gain a better grasp of maintenance. Prevention is the best medicine—simple tasks like replacing your filter monthly go a long way. Changing out a dirty filter can instantly improve efficiency, saving you up to 15 percent on your utility bill, according to the US Department of Energy (DOE).

Air Conditioning Services is committed to friendly and transparent service. We’re pleased to provide our Arizona neighbors accurate and up-to-date heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) information, so you can make informed decisions you’re completely satisfied with.

How Does Air Conditioning Help My Home?

Your AC does more than keep your living space a comfortable temperature. The evaporator removes heat and humidity from the air. From there, it converts to water, exiting down the condensate drain. With well-balanced humidity, mold has a harder time growing.

Additionally, surfaces like wood and tile are protected from excess moisture. The filter also catches allergens like pollen and dander. This, along with the mold reduction improves indoor air quality (IAQ).

How Does the AC Cool Down My Home?

If you’ve ever put your hand up to the condenser (the outdoor box with a fan), you may notice the air coming out feels warm. That’s because your central air system doesn’t add cool air—it subtracts hot air.

Indoors, the heat gets soaked up by refrigerant liquid located in the indoor evaporator unit. The liquid travels through coils to the outdoor condenser, which pushes the heat away with its fan. This process will loop until your home reaches the set thermostat temperature.

Know Your AC

• The evaporator transforms the refrigerant from a liquid into gas. It’s located inside your home, also known as the “cool side.”

• The expansion valve sits between the indoor and outdoor components. It lowers pressure on the gas-state refrigerant, which makes it easier for the liquid to undergo conversion.

• The condenser takes the gas refrigerant from the expansion valve and changes it back into a liquid. This is also known as a “heat transfer.” The condenser can be found outdoors, or the “hot side.”

• The compressor is a big electric pump that pressurizes the liquid refrigerant before it gets converted to gas in the evaporator. It is located on the “hot side.”

Maintaining Your Air Conditioner

As previously mentioned, make sure you change your air filter once a month. Clogged filters can strain your cooling equipment and eventually lead to serious mechanical problems. When performing yard work, clear away any shrubbery, leaves, or sticks obstructing the outdoor condenser.

Your AC gets heavy use during our sweltering Arizona summer months. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule a maintenance visit during the spring. One of our HVAC specialists will perform vital cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting to ensure your cooling system runs at peak performance all summer.

Call your HVAC specialist today!

Looking for expert air conditioner installation, repair, or maintenance in Tucson, AZ? Call Air Conditioning Services at 520-230-5668 or request service online today.

Today’s air conditioner (AC) is based on a prototype invented in 1902 by Willis Carrier, an engineer from Buffalo, New York. Unlike earlier forms of cooling, Carrier’s model controlled the temperature by removing heat and humidity from the air.  Below are some air conditioning basics.

Since the early 20th century, engineers have significantly improved on Carrier’s initial design. Even in the past decade, cooling technology has become much more efficient. For instance, if you replace a 10-year-old air conditioning unit with a new efficiency model, your energy use could go down as much as 50 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Ready to upgrade your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment? Call ACS Air Conditioning Services today. Located in Oro Valley, we’re pleased to install the best home comfort technology available for our Arizona neighbors.

The Early Days of Air Conditioning

Did you know “evaporative cooling” is an old form of air conditioning that historians trace back to ancient Egypt and Persia? The process involves leaving out water, snow, or ice and letting it evaporate to cool an indoor area.

How Your AC Works

Air conditioners decrease indoor temperature through the refrigeration process. They circulate refrigerant, a substance that phases between liquid and gas. As this cycle occurs, the refrigerant grabs heat and humidity from the air, converting it to liquid water.

As a result, your home gets cooler and less humid––which leads to more comfort and better indoor air quality (IAQ).

Your AC has four basic components:

• The Evaporator
  This element sits inside. It is a collection of coils that absorbs heat and humidity from inside your home.

• The Condenser
  This unit that sits outside your home. It is responsible for releasing the heat that your evaporator collects into the outdoors.

• The Expansion Valve
  This component facilitates the flow of refrigerants. It can increase or decrease in size, allowing it to expand or convert from gas to liquid.

• Compressor
  This is a pump that applies pressure to the refrigerant to keep the flow going.

Common AC Mistakes

Here are four common mistakes to avoid when running your AC unit:

Mistake Number One: Leaving Doors or Windows Open

When your AC is running, you should keep your Arizona home as airtight as possible. When doors are windows get left open, the cold air escapes, causing your AC to run longer. This leads to high utility bills and a shorter lifespan for your cooling equipment.

Mistake Number Two: Forgetting to Change Your Air Filter

HVAC filters need to be changed at least every 90 days. A clogged filter means your air ducts won’t be able to distribute cool air properly. It can also cause mechanical problems and reduce efficiency.

Mistake Number Three: Skipping Maintenance Inspections

Did you know most HVAC manufacturers require you to keep up with maintenance in order to keep your warranty? There’s a reason for that. Seasonal maintenance visits are important for the following reasons:

• Your HVAC system can achieve peak efficiency
• Your equipment will last longer
• Your HVAC specialist can discover and fix small problems before they turn into expensive repairs

Call Us for Honest and Reliable HVAC Service?

Need an installation, repair, or maintenance visit near Oro Valley, AR? Call ACS Air Conditioning Services today at 520-230-5668 or request service online.

When your air conditioner (AC) is running at peak efficiency, you win.

Not only will your electric bills in Arizona be cheaper––your AC system will last longer. Plus, your equipment will be operating at its best, so you will experience maximum comfort.

The first step to optimizing efficiency is remembering to change your system’s air filter once every three months. This simple maintenance task ensures a balanced airflow, so your AC doesn’t overwork itself.

When you change out a dirty filter for a clean one, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment use up to 15 percent less energy monthly, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Plus, it’s able to properly catch dust and debris, boosting your indoor air quality (IAQ).

ACS Air Conditioning Services is always eager to educate our Oro Valley area customers on heating and cooling home care. Whether you have an AC, furnace, heat pump, or ductless mini split, we want you to get the most out of your investment.

Here are five reasons your AC could be running inefficiently:

1. Infrequent Maintenance

In addition to changing your filter, it’s important to have an HVAC professional perform a seasonal maintenance inspection, ideally in the spring. Your professional will be able to pinpoint and fix problems that are causing your AC to run less efficiently. Additionally, this will potentially save you from future repair costs. Finally, it will increase the lifespan of your equipment.

2. Poor Insulation

A well-insulated house keeps treated air in longer. That means fewer cycles, which creates less work for your AC system and uses less energy. Think you may need more insulation? You can schedule an energy audit with your ACS Air Conditioning Services professional. Our team of Oro Valley HVAC experts can use thermal imaging to quickly find “hot spots” where the air is escaping, among other areas where efficiency is lacking.

3. Window Losses

Windows can create a few efficiency problems. Large windows can create “heat gain” by letting in lots of sunlight. Windows can also let in outside air through spaces in the panes. You can combat these issues in a few ways. Always be sure to close your windows when operating your AC. Additionally, you can eliminate leaks by using insulated curtains, applying a plastic film, or closing them up with caulk or sealing tape.

4. Leaky Ducts

Leaky air ducts are a common problem that should not go unnoticed. Conditioned air escaping from your ductwork will drive up your utility bills and make your home less comfortable due to poor ventilation. During an energy audit, your HVAC professional can accurately track down and patch duct leaks.

5. Frequent Oven Use

Have you ever noticed your kitchen feels warmer when you make a batch of cookies? That’s because it is. Cooking and baking raise the temperature of your kitchen, causing your AC to work harder. Fortunately, summertime here in Arizona is grilling season. Consider cooking outdoors more frequently. Your AC will thank you.

Call Today for Optimal HVAC Care

Located in Oro Valley, AZ, ACS Air Conditioning Services provides quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance. Call today at 520-230-5668 or request service online.

Your home is a place for rest and relaxation. Heating and cooling is a big part of that equation—but so is indoor air quality (IAQ).

Modern homes are well-insulated—which is excellent for temperature control but not ideal for air quality. Your home can trap molecules that trigger allergies or other respiratory issues. That’s why adequate ventilation and balanced humidity are so important.

Fortunately, ductless mini splits can provide all the essentials for home comfort—warm air, cool air, ventilation, and humidity control. Plus, they’re much more efficient than a standard air conditioner and furnace combination.

According to ENERGY STAR®, you’ll save on average 30 percent on cooling and 60 percent on heating by switching to ductless.

Homeowners in Europe and Asia have known about ductless mini splits for decades. But in recent years, an increasing number of Arizona families have adopted the same technology.

ACS Air Conditioning Services is pleased to supply and install a wide variety of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) options for our customers in Marana and beyond. If you’re considering ductless units for your home, consult with one of our Arizona experts. We’re ready to collaborate on a solution that takes your home comfort to the next level.

How Ductless Units Work Their Magic

Ductless units have an indoor module (the air handler) and an outdoor module (the compressor/condenser).

The outdoor module is a miniature box fan. On a warm day, it expels heat and humidity extracted from your home to produce cool air. On a cool day, it extracts heat from the air and sends it into your home.

The indoor module is small and rectangular, resembling an ultramodern light fixture. It mounts to the wall or ceiling and disperses air into the room through vents.

Why They’re Wonderful

Remodeling projects are fun, but what happens when you are trying to remodel a room without ductwork—such as your attic, basement, or garage? A ductless mini split provides you with a flexible solution.

Older majestic homes without ductwork can also take advantage of these systems. Other benefits include:

Room-Specific Climate Control

Because mini splits don’t use air ducts, you may need to install multiple units to provide comfort throughout your entire Marana home. In many ways, this can be beneficial. It allows you to have individual control over temperature settings on different floors or rooms in your Arizona home. You can also cut down your energy use by only heating or cooling rooms as they’re being used.

Enhanced Air Quality

Ductless units are essential for families with allergies or asthma. They contain large air filters that catch harmful molecules like dust, dander, and pollen. Some high-end models can filter out up to 99.9 percent of airborne bacteria. On top of that, they remove humidity from the air and provide ventilation, making it harder for mildew and mold to grow.

Low Noise Pollution

Standard heating and cooling equipment emit a dull hiss or roar as it cycles. You may find this distracting when you’re trying to focus on work or fall asleep. In stark contrast, ductless blowers are whisper-silent. That’s one more way they make your home a peaceful and relaxing place.

High Efficiency

These all-in-one heating and cooling units will reduce your energy usage drastically. Homeowners in areas where the temperature dips below freezing may consider supplementing their ductless system with a furnace or boiler. But even then, it’s possible to realize massive savings.

Call Our Team of HVAC Experts

Whether you need installation, repair or maintenance help, ACS Air Conditioning Services is ready for the job. We’re located just down the street in Marana, Arizona. Call us at 520-230-5668 or request service online.

Are you cool and comfortable in your Oro Valley, Tucson, and Marana, AZ, home?

If so, you can probably thank your air conditioner.

5 Reasons Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Benefits Your Oro Valley, Tucson, and Marana Home

Professional maintenance is the most practical way to protect your HVAC investment and help safeguard it against unexpected breakdowns. Here’s how it can benefit you:

Reason 1: Enhanced System Performance

Regular maintenance helps your HVAC system run more efficiently by preventing problems before they arise. Just like a car needs tune-ups, cleaning and inspecting your HVAC keeps it functioning smoothly.

Routine checks can resolve issues like clogged air filters (reducing airflow), dirty coils (affecting heat transfer), and low refrigerant levels (leading to decreased cooling power).

Reason 2: Extended Equipment Lifespan

Regular maintenance catches small issues before they snowball into major problems. Think of it like catching a cavity early—a quick fix versus a root canal later! By addressing minor wear and tear, you prevent premature breakdowns and significantly extend the life of your HVAC unit.

Studies show that properly maintained HVAC systems can last 10-15 years, while neglected units might only function efficiently for 5-7 years. That’s almost double the lifespan with some TLC!

Reason 3: Improved Indoor Air Quality

Regular maintenance directly improves indoor air quality. Tasks like changing air filters capture dust, pollen, and other allergens before they circulate throughout your home. Additionally, duct cleaning removes built-up debris that can harbor mold and bacteria.

By removing these contaminants, you breathe cleaner air, reducing allergy and asthma symptoms. Clean indoor air is especially beneficial for residents with respiratory problems or sensitivities, allowing them to breathe easier and experience fewer allergy flare-ups.

Reason 4: Lower Energy Bills

Just like a well-tuned engine, a clean and inspected system uses less energy to achieve the same comfort level. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), a simple task such as changing the air filter on your HVAC system can improve efficiency by up to 15 percent.

Homeowners can help improve efficiency by following these simple tasks:

• Change air filters regularly
• Clean outdoor condenser coils to remove debris that restricts airflow.
• Schedule professional cleaning of air ducts every few years.
• Program your thermostat for optimal settings when you’re away or asleep.

Reason 5: Prevention of Costly Repairs and Emergencies

Regular maintenance acts like a preventative health check for your HVAC system. Here’s how it catches minor problems before they snowball:

• During a routine inspection, a technician might notice a slightly worn belt. Replacing this relatively inexpensive part now prevents a future scenario where the belt snaps entirely, leading to a system shutdown and potentially expensive repairs for a new motor or compressor.
• A loose electrical connection can cause sparks or malfunctions. Regular maintenance allows for early detection and tightening, preventing potential electrical fires or costly component replacements.

Preventive maintenance costs are a fraction of the price compared to emergency repairs. It’s a wise investment to catch minor issues early and avoid the hassle and expense of emergency repairs.

Call Today for a Summer AC Tune-Up

Get the most value from your HVAC equipment. Call ACS Air Conditioning Services today to schedule a tune-up and comprehensive inspection of your Oro Valley, Tucson, and Marana, AZ, air conditioning system. Call us at (520) 230-5668 or request service online. We’re your local comfort experts!