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HVAC units are a very important part of your home. They help with keeping you warm and cool depending on the weather outside. Sometimes your system can run into a few problems to where you will have to call Cool Masters. But, in this post we will discuss a few ways you can care for your HVAC system on your own, to minimize the number of problems your system might run into as the years progress.

clean hvac units
The first way you can care for your system is to simply clean off your unit. You should be cleaning off the top of the unit, where the fan is. When the weather changes, a lot of things can be tossed in the air including leaves and pollen. To ensure your HVAC stays clean, you can go outside a few times a year or after every season and simply wash off the top of the unit. You can easily do this task using water from a hose and gently rinsing off the top. This will help the fans stay clean and keep them moving throughout the year to keep air going in and coming out of your home.

Another way to care for your HVAC which is also related to cleaning is to care for the land around the unit. Things like weeds, grass, and trees can get overgrown and can possibly interfere with the system by blocking the airflow. To keep this from happening, you should immediately get rid of anything that is about a foot away from the system to minimize the risk of interference.

air ducts before finished ceiling
The HVAC system connects to your inside air vents. To keep the air that is coming in nice and not contaminated, you should replace your air filters. Ideally, you should be replacing your air filters every 3 months. Doing this will keep your family safe during the worst times of pollen and pollution. The Nordic Pure is a great option to replace your air filter. You can learn more about air filters from our “CLEAN AIR: CHANGING AIR FILTERS & DUCT CLEANING” blog post.

All of these ways to care for your unit can be helpful but, sometimes there just aren’t enough to keep your system from breaking down or having other problems. If a problem occurs with your HVAC system, give Cool Masters a call immediately and we can come out and fix it. We are here to help you and your family.

Have you ever wondered what that big box-like fan outside of your house is? Have you ever thought about how cold air or heat gets into your home? That is your HVAC system. In this blog post, we will discuss what an HVAC system is, what it does, and what company you should rely on with your HVAC system.

First, let’s talk about what an HVAC system is. HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is a big metal box that sits outside of your home. But, they do not always look like a giant box. HVAC systems can also be small rectangular types of containers that are attached to the house. On the inside of your house, those are AC vents.

Next, let’s discuss what the HVAC system does. What the HVAC stands for are the different systems that move air from outside and inside. That includes heating and cooling. They also filter out air to make sure you are breathing healthy air in your home. They bring in the air by a blower that circulates the air into the home.

Lastly, let’s talk about what company you should contact about your HVAC system. Cool Masters is committed to providing high-quality service with honesty, quality, and value. Our focus is on getting the job done right the first time. They have the expertise and experience to handle any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning job, big or small. So, give Cool Masters a call today!

Prevention is the best medicine – or so we’ve all been told. The theory behind this is that if you can prepare something to be ready when a less than desirable event occurs, you’ll come out of it all the better. This is true with many things in life, and especially with homeownership. If the Farmer’s Almanac predictions of super cold, teeth-chattering, harsh winter are going to come true, it’s best to have your system checked before the cold weather approaches. I mean, sure you could get your system checked in January when everyone is deciding it’s a good idea to do so. But why not prepare for the potential brutality of winter now?

Is Your HVAC System Ready?

It does seem that the over last few winters, various almanacs have been spot-on when it comes to their predictions. That said, is your HVAC system ready for a few feet of snow or sub-freezing temperatures? Chances are, you have no idea. And why would you? You’re not an HVAC expert. (Unless you are, in which case, you may stop reading now.) If you’re not quite sure the last time (if ever) your heating system was checked, it’s strongly recommended to do so prior to the cold snap. Even if it doesn’t get too cold this winter, it’s still a great idea to get it checked, and possibly even a tune-up.

Where is the Nice Weather?

Cold weather is a fickle beast. During the summer, you long for cold weather because of the oppressive heat. But when it does get actually cold, those 90° days are a distant memory, and you’re unable to remember why you wanted colder temps in the first place. That’s where your HVAC system comes into play and why it’s so important. It keeps your home and family comfortable despite extreme weather. However, that’s only true if you take care of it.

The Difference CoolMasters Offers

Maintaining your HVAC units on a regular basis is the cornerstone of them operating efficiently. There are quite a few moving parts that require the expertise of a professional HVAC contractor. These seemingly minute details aren’t something to be taken lightly. Contractors have the capacity to save you loads of your hard-earned cash by performing routine maintenance on your system. The small cost of preventative maintenance would pale in comparison to the price of replacing a neglected HVAC system. No matter whether it be a single A/C unit, compressor, or furnace.

Coolmasters is your number one source for heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and your home for top-notch customer service. Call 678.799.7999 or click the green circle in the bottom right to get in touch with CoolMasters immediately and schedule your tune-up for Winter!

So you’re looking to save money in heating and cooling costs while also using alternative fuel sources? Look no further than geothermal heating and cooling. Though it’s still in its infancy as far as conventional HVAC goes, geothermal is becoming a trend, and eventually will be the norm. The Earth’s core provides the energy needed to heat and cool your abode instead of oil, natural gas, or a heat pump. Although geothermal does have a few drawbacks, the benefits will likely outweigh the disadvantages for you and your family. It seems like a clear and easy choice, but let’s talk about what might discourage a homeowner from going green when it comes to HVAC.

how geothermal heating works

The Cons

If you’re easily shocked by sticker prices, this one might throw you a bit. The cost, especially on older homes that must be retrofitted, can be upwards of $30,000. So you’ll have to decide if what you spend for a geothermal system is worth what you’ll save in the long run. The reason older home installations cost more is because of the great deal of excavation required to install. However, a business that is larger than most homes would benefit from a geothermal install more easily because the cost might be tax-deductible based on the state, county, or municipality that it’s located in.

As of 2019, there are very few installers of geothermal systems and therefore not much competition. This also lends to the higher price versus standard HVAC systems, and the plethora of installers for those.

Underground ecosystems and their parts (i.e. roots) can be detrimental to the components of geothermal HVAC and can have huge out of pocket costs.

The Earth’s energy alone isn’t what powers this type of system. Geothermal only refers to the source of heating and cooling, not the energy to run it. That would almost certainly be electricity – and a lot of it. So there is a slight pitfall there. Aside from the power bill, the water required for underground wells that are used for these systems is immense.

Now that we’ve done the bad news first, here’s the good news.

The Pros

Compared to gas and oil furnaces, geothermal systems emit almost no pollution and are 300 to 500% efficient. Conventional systems average about 90% efficiency. As long as the planet stays intact, geothermal energy is 100% renewable. They also will not turn off because they run out of fuel.

Not only can two-bedroom homes benefit from these eco-friendly systems, but large commercial spaces can as well.

The savings for annual heating and cooling will drop drastically upon installation, typically between 40 and 60%. Gas and/or oil prices will have no bearing on what it costs to run a geothermal system. These systems make almost no noise as there isn’t a compressor to run or furnace to fire up.

The Whole Story

While geothermal energy may not be practical for all home or business owners, the future of this concept is quite bright. As more and more HVAC companies utilize geothermal energy systems and technology, prices will continue to fall, and they’ll become more readily available.

It might not sound like the most interesting thing to learn about, but your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system actually has some interesting information pertaining to it. In fact, you might be surprised at some of the following facts.

The first home to be fully air conditioned was a mansion in 1913. This was the home of Charles Gates in Minneapolis, but he passed away before experiencing the beauty of it. The first industry to really use air conditioning was cinema throughout all of the public theaters. The first president to have air conditioning in the Oval Office was Herbert Hoover. The Romans used a furnace as the first heating system in a building’s walls and floors. Having a properly functioning HVAC system is shown to keep occupants healthier for longer. Air conditioning also allowed for other inventions to function properly, such as the printing press and computer technology.

For the most professional installation and maintenance of HVAC systems, you should consider Cool Masters, Inc. This heating and air conditioning company has over 45 years of reliable experience in the industry in the area of Atlanta, Georgia. You can be sure they have the knowledge and understanding to repair or replace your HVAC system in a timely, efficient, and friendly manner. Cool Masters is dedicated to suiting your home’s heating and cooling needs, so reach out to them today to get started. You can utilize several of their different services such as diagnostics, tune-ups, or consultation on how to save energy. You can find more information about Cool Masters at www.coolmastershvac.com.

From hurricanes to hail, the range of weather conditions in Alpharetta can not only cause damage to your home and property, but can even be problematic for your HVAC system. To protect your outdoor AC unit for optimal and efficient functioning when you need it most, there are simple steps you can take. Follow these five tips to keep your unit running, no matter the forecast.

Keep It Under Wraps

While AC units are designed to withstand harsh conditions, if a big storm is brewing that could cause flying debris or falling ice to damage your condenser coils or even dent the delicate fins and block airflow, you’ll want to cover your unit with a breathable material that doesn’t trap moisture inside. One popular option is to use durable hail guard netting that is specifically designed to protect your equipment. The mesh netting is lightweight and easy to install.

Clear the Area

During a major storm, loose objects around the yard can go flying, and potentially strike your AC unit. To prevent damage to your system, be sure to bring in any lawn chairs, toys, or other objects, and trim branches near the unit so they don’t fall onto the system.

Power Down

If power outages are in the forecast, turn off your AC unit to reduce the risk of damage caused by power surges from lightning, damaged transformers, or fluctuations when the power returns. Start inside by turning the AC off, then head to the circuit breaker and cut the power there. Once the power’s back on, be sure to keep the unit off for a few minutes. For even greater protection, you may also want to consider a separate surge protector for the unit installed at your circuit breaker.

Avoid a Short

A short in your equipment’s wiring can cause your AC unit to stop working. In order to prevent damage to the wires, check to see that any wires that run between your outside unit and the house are covered and properly secured. You’ll want to take this extra precaution even with insulated wires since they can still deteriorate over time from sun and temperature changes.

Cement It

Another culprit of AC unit damage is water. If you’re in an area that regularly experiences heavy rain that leads to standing water where your air conditioner sits, then you may want to elevate your system off the ground with a concrete pad to prevent any damage to the moving parts or electrical components. Depending on where you live, the height of the pad can be adjusted to ensure the base is effective at protecting the unit. You may also want to slope the land away from the system for proper drainage.

No one wants to be stuck with a broken air conditioner, and repairs can be expensive. To avoid damage and keep your unit up and running, follow these tips. If your unit suffers damage from bad weather, call for AC service and repair in Alpharetta.

If you live near Buford, GA, then your HVAC system likely runs all year round, from warming your home in unseasonably cold winter temps to keeping your cool in the hot summer. To ensure optimal operation of your HVAC system for 365-day comfort, it’s important to maintain your equipment. And scheduling regular tune ups cannot only prevent a breakdown, but also provide a range of other benefits. Check out these top five reasons to schedule your service.

Stop Sneezing

You may not believe it, but your HVAC system can be a breeding ground for dust, mold, and other allergens. If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, it’s important to regularly maintain your unit. During a tune up, not only will your service person change your air filter, he or she will also clean up any harmful particles that have built up on your coils. For an extra ounce of prevention, you may also want to arrange to have the ducts in your home cleaned since they can also harbor contaminants like dust mites and animal dander that can make your allergies flare up.

Reduce Energy Expenditures

When your HVAC system is not functioning at peak performance, it has to work harder to deliver the same results. And that means it uses more energy, which can bump up your utility bills. To save on your heating and cooling costs, be sure you schedule a regular tune-up. That way, you’ll learn if you have any leaks or blockages that could be impacting your system’s performance and can address them immediately.

Take a Deep Breath

While most people think pollution occurs outside, your home can contain contaminants that lead to poor air quality. But an optimally functioning HVAC can help improve the air you breathe. When you schedule a tune-up, your air filters will be replaced so they function efficiently to trap small particulates and prevent them from circulating throughout your house. The result? A cleaner, healthier home.

Stay Up and Running

The last thing you want on a blisteringly hot day is for your air conditioning to fail. But malfunctions can happen if your unit isn’t properly maintained. By scheduling a service check every year, you can ensure you identify and address any potential issues before they cause your system to shut down.

Save on Repair Costs

Depending on the nature of your unit’s problem, it can be costly to repair an HVAC system. That’s why it’s important to do preventive maintenance every year that can keep the unit performing at its best. And if you do uncover a problem during your tune-up, just remember that you’ll spend a lot less on a simple repair than on a major problem.

Keeping your HVAC performing optimally will help improve your comfort while in your home – and improve your savings. Be sure to schedule a tune-up this year with a company that specializes in air conditioning service repair in Buford, GA.

Your HVAC system runs year in and year out. When it’s in use, it consumes more energy than many of your other household appliances combined. It’s only natural to think of ways to make this unit work more efficiently because that can save you money on your utility bills. Some of these tips below will also extend the lifespan of your unit and make you feel more comfortable at home.

Program Your Thermostat

Most people spend 8 to 10 hours away from home during the day while they’re at work. During that time, your HVAC system shouldn’t be running on full throttle, unless another family member is at home. A programmable thermostat makes it easy for you to adjust the temperature based on when you’re home. You can even turn the heat up in the morning, right before you get up out of bed. This will make the house comfortably warm so you can get ready for your day.

A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures throughout the day, but it also lets you program it differently on weekends. If you’re home on the weekends, your home can also be warm.

Change the Filter

It seems really simple, but changing the filter can improve the operation of your HVAC unit. The filter collects dust and debris that accumulates inside the system. When the filter is dirty, this dust and debris have nowhere to go, which makes your unit work harder than it should. It’s best to stock up on filters for your HVAC unit. This way, you can change them out when you remember them without having to run to the store first. You may also want to schedule these filter changes on your calendar or put a reminder on your phone.

Update Your Insulation

To keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, your insulation is important. Proper insulation seals your home to ensure that air doesn’t escape. It also adds a thermal layer to help your household its indoor temperature better. One area where insulation is often inadequate is the attic. Insulating your attic could significantly reduce your energy bill.

You may also want to check your doors and windows for drafts. It’s easy to replace the seals around the doorframe and seal any cracks around your window with caulk. Afterward, you also shouldn’t feel any draft when you sit near a door or window.

Service Your HVAC Unit

Your HVAC unit will run best if you have it serviced regularly. During a maintenance appointment, your HVAC professional will perform a thorough inspection and cleaning of your indoor and outdoor units. This will keep the system running more efficiently and extend its lifespan.

Your expert in HVAC repair service in Grayson, GA, can also help you if you’re having any difficulties with your unit. They can install a new thermostat for you and advise you on how to keep your unit operating efficiently. Finally, they can help you decide when it’s time to switch to a newer unit. Even with the suggestions above, you’ll probably still spend too much on your utility bills if you have a very old and inefficient HVAC system.

Your home is your life’s most important investment, and one that you must maintain properly. Some of its components, like the electrical system and drywall, don’t need much maintenance or supervision. However, the HVAC system, or the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components require tune-ups and repairs at least once a year.

Why is this so important? For one, regular heating and air conditioning repair extend the lifespan of these valuable units. And, secondly, professional repairs have been shown to offer improved efficiency, which translates to energy savings, lower monthly bills, and financial savings. Think of an air conditioning repair service in Alpharetta as an investment of its own. You spend money now to save more money in the future.

Signs of Inefficient Systems

Most Americans today are living with inefficient heating and AC systems, and don’t even know it. Worse, your energy company, which monitors your monthly use, may have noticed a gradual spike in the energy you use every month on heating and cooling. Because they profit off your overuse, they’re unlikely to warn you.

It’s important to monitor your systems or have them monitored professionally, to alleviate the symptoms of an inefficient, poorly operating heater or air conditioner. These signs include spikes in your monthly energy costs, systems that seem slow to respond to your thermostat, dirty air, and more.

These problems cause your air conditioner or heater to work harder in order to produce the same results, running for longer periods of time to reach your thermostat’s target temperature settings.

Addressing Efficiency Issues

Heating and air conditioning repair technicians can easily spot the cause behind your energy bill spikes. Problems include dirty, worn-out filters, dirty coils in the furnace or AC unit, damaged blowers, among other problems. The sooner you hire air conditioning service and repair technicians, the sooner you’ll experience a more efficient system. After all, inspections and repairs have been shown to improve heating and AC efficiency by as much as 25 percent! Imagine the savings you’ll see every month if you just have these vital systems inspected.

Hiring a technician is like taking a weight off your back. You won’t have to work as hard to accomplish the same tasks, and neither will your heater or AC!

Now’s the right time to start decreasing your monthly utility costs. Hire an air conditioning repair service in Alpharetta to diagnose and address the causes of an inefficient system. Your AC and heater don’t necessarily have to be in bad shape for you to see improvement. Simple fixes can result in dramatic energy savings. Just be sure to hire professional services twice a year, before winter and before summer, in order to see the most benefits.

There is more to hiring an HVAC repair service in Buford, GA, than simply choosing the closest or cheapest one. You want to ensure that the company you choose employs people who are experienced and capable of completing the job. Here are a few qualities that every HVAC technician should exhibit.

Professionalism

From the moment they arrive at your home, the HVAC repair contractor in Buford, GA, should display professionalism. First, they should arrive to your appointment within the agreed timeframe. Typically, you will be given a one- to two-hour window during which they will arrive and begin working. You will also be able to gauge their professionalism by their appearance. The technician should look presentable and be wearing a uniform that clearly indicates who they are and the company that they work for.

Preparedness

The technician should also be completely prepared to complete their work promptly. There is nothing more annoying than waiting for a tech to arrive, only to find out that they do not have the proper tools to complete the task at hand. Sometimes, they will need to order parts to complete the HVAC repair. However, even this process should be speedy.

Knowledgeable

A good technician should also be experienced and well-informed about the HVAC industry. They should be able to inspect your HVAC system and determine what the problem is. They should also be capable of providing you an estimate of how long the problem will take to be fixed and then remedy the problem. This ability is primarily due to their training, experience, and skills.

Ask the tech how long they have been working in the field and if they have completed projects similar to yours. If they are new to the industry or otherwise inexperienced, they should be accompanied by a more experienced tech. This way, you can be confident that your HVAC maintenance will go off without a hitch.

Friendly and Considerate

Along with being professional, prepared, and skilled, an HVAC tech should also be friendly and considerate of your home. They should treat you with kindness and respect. The tech should be able to answer any and all questions you may have in a way that you can easily understand. They should also be able to provide you with any additional information that you may need throughout the process.

In addition to treating you with respect, they should also treat your home with respect. Since they may need to enter and exit your home frequently, the technician should wear boot covers. This way, they will not be tracking dirt and mud all over your house. When the project is completed, they should also take the time and effort to clean up the area and return it to its previous condition. This includes putting away tools, throwing out trash, and cleaning up anything else.