One of the most important features of any home is the air conditioning unit. This is the item in the home that helps keep us comfortable and relaxed in our home. However, when it is not working correctly, this comfort can quickly be erased.
Keeping your unit functioning properly means scheduling annual servicing and regular maintenance. But, it is also important for homeowners to do a little bit of work on the unit to keep it working properly. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your unit is always working at its highest level.
Remove Debris
The first thing you will want to do is to keep bushes, debris and tree limbs away from your outdoor unit. You may need to trim trees and bushes away from the unit to make this a reality. It is also best to check for debris at least once a month. Trash, leaves and dirt can quickly build up in the unit causing it to not function properly.
Change Your Filters
This is actually something that most homeowners tend to not give a lot of thought to, unless they actually notice that the filter is dirty; then they will replace it or clean it. But, it is actually better to be more prudent than this. Get on a schedule for changing your filters and stick to it. The amount of time between changing your filter will vary depending on the brand and model of filter you purchase. So, make sure you take a look at the recommended scheduled that is usually listed on the filter itself.
Duct Cleaning
If you have central air conditioning, you should consider having your ducts cleaned on a regular basis. Over time, dirt can build up in these items, causing your unit to become overworked and inefficient. This is also something that can cause issues like leaks and damage to the ducts. Cleaning them on a regular basis can help stop this type of damage from occurring in the first place.
Maintaining your air conditioning unit is an important part of staying comfortable in your home. Follow these tips to make sure you always have the most functional and efficient air conditioning unit, and if you do need service, make sure to give the experts at J.R. Perkins a call!
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Thursday, January 7, 2016
10 Tips on What to Look for in an Air Conditioning Contractor
When it comes to air conditioning, many people are clueless as to what exactly goes on behind the scenes to keep their house nice and cool. Air conditioning contractors are the experts, but like in any business, there are people who excel at their job and there are others who might not be at the top of their game. Air conditioning contractors can be expensive, so it's important to make sure you're getting bang for your buck. Here are 10 tips on hiring an air conditioning contractor.
1. Look for contractors that are affiliated with the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. You can find contractors in your local area that belong to these organizations by searching their websites.
2. Check if technicians are certified by the North American Technician Excellence organization.
3. Don't agree to hire a contractor that gives you an over-the-phone estimate without even looking at the problem.
4. Good contractors often have cooling estimation calculators and can give you estimates for the annual cost of your cooling system. If your contractor is hesitant to provide an annual estimate of the system they are recommending, perhaps look for business elsewhere.
5. Be hesitant to hire the contractor with an unusually low price estimate. Shop around and get several estimates, but keep in mind that if one estimate is drastically lower than the others, they could be selling unreliable or faulty products.
6. A good contractor will be professional and reliable. Look for a contractor who is on time and courteous.
7. Ask your friends for recommendations! It never hurts to get advice from others since, after all, they have actually experienced how their contractor does business.
8. Make sure your contractor is insured. In the case that anything goes wrong, you want to make sure your home is protected.
9. Ensure that you get an estimate in writing. An honest contractor will have no problem putting their work estimate in writing before they start the job.
10. Don't be afraid to ask for references! If you're new to the area and don't have anyone to ask for referrals, don't hesitate to ask a potential contractor for references from their prior clients.
If you have any questions or concerns about if the J.R. Perkins Heating & Cooling team is the right air conditioning contractor for you, or simply would like more information about air conditioning services in the Phoenix area, please don't hesitate to contact us!
1. Look for contractors that are affiliated with the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. You can find contractors in your local area that belong to these organizations by searching their websites.
2. Check if technicians are certified by the North American Technician Excellence organization.
3. Don't agree to hire a contractor that gives you an over-the-phone estimate without even looking at the problem.
4. Good contractors often have cooling estimation calculators and can give you estimates for the annual cost of your cooling system. If your contractor is hesitant to provide an annual estimate of the system they are recommending, perhaps look for business elsewhere.
5. Be hesitant to hire the contractor with an unusually low price estimate. Shop around and get several estimates, but keep in mind that if one estimate is drastically lower than the others, they could be selling unreliable or faulty products.
6. A good contractor will be professional and reliable. Look for a contractor who is on time and courteous.
7. Ask your friends for recommendations! It never hurts to get advice from others since, after all, they have actually experienced how their contractor does business.
8. Make sure your contractor is insured. In the case that anything goes wrong, you want to make sure your home is protected.
9. Ensure that you get an estimate in writing. An honest contractor will have no problem putting their work estimate in writing before they start the job.
10. Don't be afraid to ask for references! If you're new to the area and don't have anyone to ask for referrals, don't hesitate to ask a potential contractor for references from their prior clients.
If you have any questions or concerns about if the J.R. Perkins Heating & Cooling team is the right air conditioning contractor for you, or simply would like more information about air conditioning services in the Phoenix area, please don't hesitate to contact us!
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Are You Ready to Stop Living in a Dust Bowl?
Does it seem like you’re forever walking around the house with a dust cloth in one hand and a bottle of polish in the other? Are the dust mites so at home in your house that they’ve starting hosting parties for their friends? If so, it may be time to call an air conditioning contractor instead of a maid. Why? It could be your home’s cooling and ventilation system that’s to blame.
How Did This Happen?
Dust is typically a compilation of everything from pet dander and dead skin cells to dirt blown in by the ventilation system. Today, we wanted to talk about the ventilation system dirt. It generally comes from a handful of sources. The chief ones are air leaks, air vents and ductwork. Now think about where your home’s ductwork is located. Chances are it runs through places like the attic, crawl spaces and wall voids.
Those are normally dusty places due to air leaks, insulation and insect or rodent activities. If the cooling system’s ductwork has holes in it or ineffective seams, it can suck in the dust from those areas and shoot it into a home via the air vents. Consequently, it may eventually seem like you’re living during the Great Dust Bowl instead of 2015.
But that’s not all. Remember, air conditioning systems pull outside air into a home too. And we all know that the air outside isn’t always the best. That’s partially why disaster planners and firefighters recommend closing a cooling system’s vents during wildlife outbreaks. Similar may be said for allergists that urge their patients to hire air conditioning service companies capable of installing allergen filters, conducting ductwork inspection and ventilation system cleaning.
Are You Ready to Put Down the Dust Cloth?
J.R. Perkins Heating & Cooling can find out if your home’s HVAC system is contributing to your dust problem. If it is the chief cause of the dust mite convention, they’ll be able to clean and repair the system. So you can put down the dust cloth and begin living in comfort again. To request an estimate and learn more, give us a call at (480) 946-5083.
How Did This Happen?
Dust is typically a compilation of everything from pet dander and dead skin cells to dirt blown in by the ventilation system. Today, we wanted to talk about the ventilation system dirt. It generally comes from a handful of sources. The chief ones are air leaks, air vents and ductwork. Now think about where your home’s ductwork is located. Chances are it runs through places like the attic, crawl spaces and wall voids.
Those are normally dusty places due to air leaks, insulation and insect or rodent activities. If the cooling system’s ductwork has holes in it or ineffective seams, it can suck in the dust from those areas and shoot it into a home via the air vents. Consequently, it may eventually seem like you’re living during the Great Dust Bowl instead of 2015.
But that’s not all. Remember, air conditioning systems pull outside air into a home too. And we all know that the air outside isn’t always the best. That’s partially why disaster planners and firefighters recommend closing a cooling system’s vents during wildlife outbreaks. Similar may be said for allergists that urge their patients to hire air conditioning service companies capable of installing allergen filters, conducting ductwork inspection and ventilation system cleaning.
Are You Ready to Put Down the Dust Cloth?
J.R. Perkins Heating & Cooling can find out if your home’s HVAC system is contributing to your dust problem. If it is the chief cause of the dust mite convention, they’ll be able to clean and repair the system. So you can put down the dust cloth and begin living in comfort again. To request an estimate and learn more, give us a call at (480) 946-5083.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Easy Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
As the months roll by in Scottsdale, AZ, we here at J. R. Perkins are constantly thinking about how we can keep your home as cool and comfortable as possible, while ensuring that your HVAC system is promoting optimal overall air quality. With this in mind, we wanted to take a minute to point out simple ways to improve air quality within your home.
Keep the Chemicals Away
Chemicals, like those found in cleaning solutions, can be damaging to the air quality within our home. Consider keeping cleaning products in storage outdoors to avoid filling your home with unnecessary air pollutants. Another option is to switch to all-natural cleaning products.
Assess Air Filters
Checking, changing, and cleaning your air filters regularly will not only allow your HVAC system to perform efficiently, but it will promote better air quality.
Allow for Ventilation
Air pollutants can become trapped inside your home and will greatly decrease overall air quality and health. To avoid this, open the windows to let in some fresh air or run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. A little extra air circulation can go a long way!
Block Off the Source
Search your home for sources of unnecessary air pollutants to determine if they should be removed. For example, wood-burning fireplaces should be blocked off when not in use, and asbestos products sealed away. Even the smallest changes can really make a difference.
For more information on ways to improve your indoor air quality, contact us today!
Keep the Chemicals Away
Chemicals, like those found in cleaning solutions, can be damaging to the air quality within our home. Consider keeping cleaning products in storage outdoors to avoid filling your home with unnecessary air pollutants. Another option is to switch to all-natural cleaning products.
Assess Air Filters
Checking, changing, and cleaning your air filters regularly will not only allow your HVAC system to perform efficiently, but it will promote better air quality.
Allow for Ventilation
Air pollutants can become trapped inside your home and will greatly decrease overall air quality and health. To avoid this, open the windows to let in some fresh air or run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. A little extra air circulation can go a long way!
Block Off the Source
Search your home for sources of unnecessary air pollutants to determine if they should be removed. For example, wood-burning fireplaces should be blocked off when not in use, and asbestos products sealed away. Even the smallest changes can really make a difference.
For more information on ways to improve your indoor air quality, contact us today!
Thursday, October 15, 2015
What Is a "Home Performance Audit" and Why Should You Get One?
Here at J. R. Perkins, we are dedicated to much more than just making sure your home stays cool and comfortable in the Arizona heat. We also stress the importance of keeping your home as safe and energy efficient as possible, while considering your overall personal health. To assess these factors, we recommend getting a Home Performance Audit.
A Home Performance Audit is a full assessment of your home’s energy performance through an in-depth home inspection, as well as research into past utility bill payments and trends. This will help identify potential issues throughout your home that may need professional attention or repair. Home Performance Audits can be very helpful to homeowners for many reasons, a few of which are as follows:
• They improve the safety of your home. A Home Performance Audit will help you discover dangerous sources of air pollutants throughout your home, such as mold or dust in attics, which may be affecting your health.
• They save you money. By conducting a Home Performance Audit, you will learn details about your energy usage and ways to save money in the future. Whether you identify issues with your home that are causing unnecessarily increased energy usage, or notice patterns in your overall usage, the findings of a Home Performance Audit will greatly benefit your costs.
• They will make you more comfortable. Home Performance Audits will point out necessary repairs throughout your home. Once you know what kind of work needs to be completed, you can get started on working to make your home a healthier and more comfortable environment.
Schedule your Home Performance Audit today to put you on the road to an energy-efficient, cost-effective, comfortable home. Contact us with questions, concerns, or to schedule your upcoming service!
A Home Performance Audit is a full assessment of your home’s energy performance through an in-depth home inspection, as well as research into past utility bill payments and trends. This will help identify potential issues throughout your home that may need professional attention or repair. Home Performance Audits can be very helpful to homeowners for many reasons, a few of which are as follows:
• They improve the safety of your home. A Home Performance Audit will help you discover dangerous sources of air pollutants throughout your home, such as mold or dust in attics, which may be affecting your health.
• They save you money. By conducting a Home Performance Audit, you will learn details about your energy usage and ways to save money in the future. Whether you identify issues with your home that are causing unnecessarily increased energy usage, or notice patterns in your overall usage, the findings of a Home Performance Audit will greatly benefit your costs.
• They will make you more comfortable. Home Performance Audits will point out necessary repairs throughout your home. Once you know what kind of work needs to be completed, you can get started on working to make your home a healthier and more comfortable environment.
Schedule your Home Performance Audit today to put you on the road to an energy-efficient, cost-effective, comfortable home. Contact us with questions, concerns, or to schedule your upcoming service!
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Featured Product: Trane CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner
Trane, the leader in air filtration technology, has released a revolutionary new product: the CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner. This system uses patented technology to effectively remove up to 99.98% of particles from the air in your home. This new system has set a new industry standard for efficiency, far surpassing any filtration devices we have seen thus far.
Managing indoor air pollution should be a critical concern for all homeowners. There are many serious health concerns associated with air pollution, and it is important to take an active role in protecting yourself from the harmful effects of poor air quality. The CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner filters air down to .1 micron, allowing the system to clean air more thoroughly than ever before. With the precision of this expert devise, you will be able to protect yourself from the inhalation of many common household pollutants.
For more information on Trane’s CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner, check out the full brochure on our website. Or give us a call! We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about it!
Managing indoor air pollution should be a critical concern for all homeowners. There are many serious health concerns associated with air pollution, and it is important to take an active role in protecting yourself from the harmful effects of poor air quality. The CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner filters air down to .1 micron, allowing the system to clean air more thoroughly than ever before. With the precision of this expert devise, you will be able to protect yourself from the inhalation of many common household pollutants.
For more information on Trane’s CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner, check out the full brochure on our website. Or give us a call! We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about it!
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Is a Solar Residential Water Heater Right for You?
Is it time to replace the water heater in your home? There are many reliable options when it comes to water heaters, and it’s important to find the one that is the best match for you and your home. A product that is becoming more and more popular (especially in the East Valley) is the solar residential water heater. If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint in a cost effective manner, a solar water heater might be just what you’re looking for!
A solar residential water heater harnesses the power of the sun to heat the water in your home. When properly installed, a single rooftop panel can provide over 2600 Kilowatts of energy annually. That’s enough energy to provide hot water to a family of 4 for the entire year!
Solar water heaters operate by using thermal energy produced by the sun. A solar collector, installed on the roof of your home, transfers that thermal energy to water held in a storage tank. Through this process, you’ll have hot water in your home from a clean and reliable energy source!
There are numerous benefits to installing a solar water heater in your home, one of the main ones being cost. Although more expensive at the offset than the average traditional water heater, a solar heater will reduce your water heating electricity by about 50%. With this decrease, your payback for installation can be as little as 4.5 years.
Plus, there are various rebates and tax credits associated with solar water heaters. Local utility companies will rebate $.50 per watt, equaling up to $1340. You can receive a federal tax credit of 30% and an Arizona state tax credit of up to $1000. After the credits and rebates you’ll receive, the cost of installation is generally less than $3300.
Request a free solar residential water heater estimate TODAY!
A solar residential water heater harnesses the power of the sun to heat the water in your home. When properly installed, a single rooftop panel can provide over 2600 Kilowatts of energy annually. That’s enough energy to provide hot water to a family of 4 for the entire year!
Solar water heaters operate by using thermal energy produced by the sun. A solar collector, installed on the roof of your home, transfers that thermal energy to water held in a storage tank. Through this process, you’ll have hot water in your home from a clean and reliable energy source!
There are numerous benefits to installing a solar water heater in your home, one of the main ones being cost. Although more expensive at the offset than the average traditional water heater, a solar heater will reduce your water heating electricity by about 50%. With this decrease, your payback for installation can be as little as 4.5 years.
Plus, there are various rebates and tax credits associated with solar water heaters. Local utility companies will rebate $.50 per watt, equaling up to $1340. You can receive a federal tax credit of 30% and an Arizona state tax credit of up to $1000. After the credits and rebates you’ll receive, the cost of installation is generally less than $3300.
Request a free solar residential water heater estimate TODAY!
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