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There are days that the heat and humidity are just too much, making us want to have an Air Conditioner in our homes. You’re lucky enough if you already own one. But it’s quite a concern if you hear loud noises from your air conditioner especially when it’s starting. You certainly need to call a professional HVAC technician to avoid making your AC dysfunctional. While waiting you can check out the following possible causes of the noise your AC is making. 

Banging and Clanging

There are two possible causes for this noise. It can either be the cause of debris stuck on your unit, or a loose fan that hits against the HVAC cage. Upon hearing this noise, you should immediately shut it down to avoid further damages and complications. You should call professional HVAC technicians for this is an urgent concern. 

The Rattling of the Outdoor Unit

It is truly inevitable for anything to age. Like other equipment, air conditioners also deteriorate as time passes by. As it ages, the parts loosen and that’s what makes the rattling sound. However, if it’s not that old yet, several possible reasons include a loose fan, malfunctioning electrical contractor, or it has twigs and leaves stuck inside. To avoid further damage, it’s commendable to immediately call a professional HVAC technician. 

High-Pitched Screaming or Whistling

This noise surely needs immediate action from professionals. This is one of the most serious signals that an AC can send to its owner. There are two possible reasons for this. Either there’s a refrigerant leak or there’s an issue with the compressor. Either of the two, you have to take quick action on this noise. Some AC offers a safety feature that shuts down the unit in case this instance happens. But if not, shut it by yourself and don’t operate until it gets inspected by a professional. 

Clicking

Whenever you start it, if it produces clicking sounds and doesn’t turn on, it can be a cause of the electrical problem. In case this occurs, it’s best to leave the work to professionals. 

Squealing

Squealing can also be caused by two possible reasons. Either it’s caused by a misaligned or worn fan belt, or a malfunctioning outdoor fan motor or indoor blower motor. The sound may come and go when the belt is the cause because it’s the temperature that makes the fan belt contract and expands. However, you should still consult it with a professional. 

Humming

Humming is not much of a problem. However, leaving it unchecked for a long time may cause bigger problems. It can be caused by loose parts or refrigerant piping. It could also be an issue with the motor if it hums and the compressor doesn’t start. Whatever the reason is, the best way to resolve is to call an HVAC technician. 

Metal Popping

This is the least to be concerned about. It’s usually the ductwork while it responds to the unit to turn it on or off. However, you can buy some type of insulation or foam to reduce the noise. 

To avoid those noises made by ACs, you might as well want to do the following preventive measures: 

Schedule Regular Inspection

To keep your HVAC in good condition, you better schedule a maintenance inspection for at least twice a year. This will help you know what possible problems your AC may experience and avoid it before it happens. 

Install Noise-Reducing Barrier

In case you just happen to have a noisy air conditioner, try to buy a noise-reducing barrier. It can be a noise-reducing fence, sound blanket, or quiet fence. 

Immediately Call an Expert

If you are suspecting that your AC has problems, don’t hesitate to call an HVAC technician to inspect. That way, you won’t have to face big damages and pay more money and time. 

These are all the following reasons why your AC creates noises whenever it starts. In case any of these fit with your concern, immediately call a professional HVAC technician. Also, remember to follow all preventive measures to avoid complications and worse, a fully damaged AC.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. As the name itself implies, the HVAC system controls the temperature and humidity level by controlling the distribution of air inside to bring safety and comfort in your space. However, a good HVAC system will be useless, no matter how expensive it is, if it is faultily installed. That’s the reason why it is important to hire and invest in an HVAC contractor that is knowledgeable, experienced, and properly trained.

So, without further ado, here are some of the important steps to take to find an effective HVAC contractor: here are some of the important steps to take to find an effective HVAC contractor:

Research

Surfing the net will make your hunt a lot easier. People are now relying a lot on the internet. That’s why a lot of companies, including heating and cooling manufacturers, are making websites as a part of their strategies. 

HVAC companies provide contact information and key details of an independent dealer near your location. Meanwhile, in another HVAC website, you can read customer reviews and identify recommended companies. If you want to verify the HVAC contractor you have found, you may use ACCA or Air Conditioning Contractors of America as they offer a searchable database of its contractor members.

This way, you can find you your ideal HVAC contractor whether you need AC Repair or AC Installation while staying at home and saving time and money.

Referrals

No one is more trustworthy than your family, friends, or neighbors, right? You may ask your family, friends, and neighbors for referrals. You can ask their personal experience with the HVAC contractors and compare the service you are expecting, as well as the budget and time of completion. You can have the most honest answers from referrals which makes it easier for you.

Reviews

Other people’s opinions matter. Reading reviews about a licensed HVAC contractor is another way of verifying their quality, value, and customer service. Comments may consist of how the contractor behaved as they face the problem, did the contractor provides clear details regarding the problem, or how they addressed the problem. With these pieces of information, you will have an insight if customer satisfaction is the top priority of the contractor.

Set Expectations

We only want the best for ourselves. For home necessities, it is important to look for the best value. If you want to buy and install a new heating and cooling system, it is best if you work with a licensed HVAC contractor that will provide a limited warranty. If the system is properly installed, unnecessary repetitive visits can be nullified. However, a scheduled maintenance of the system, provided by the company, will maintain the efficiency and may extend the life expectancy of the system.

Ideal HVAC Contractor

No one wants their money to go to waste. The HVAC system is probably one of the most expensive equipment in your space. And that’s why you should look for someone reliable to work on it. The most important qualification for an HVAC contractor is to be licensed and experienced. However, these are not the only thing you should consider when looking for an HVAC contractor. Here are the few things you should also pay attention to:

• Even after the appointment, still reach out through text, call, email, or set a service appointment.
• Arrived within the given time.
• Have certification patches received from organizations.
• Patient enough to talk about and answer your concerns.
• Can perform a complete, thorough system evaluation.
• Provides written documentation.

I hope I answered all the questions you have in mind. By doing all of the steps written above and following your guts, I hope you will be able to choose an HVAC contractor that will bring comfort to your home. Good luck!

If your duct system is damaged, expect your heating and air conditioning systems to have greatly reduced energy efficiency. All the energy that will be lost will cost more in a single season and it will exceed the price of the repair materials. So, upon seeing any damages, act immediately, and repair it to avoid spending more. 

Before directly going through the steps, I want you to be informed that there are various types of HVAC ducts. Why do I have to tell you that? Well, different HVAC duct types need different ways of repairing. 

It’s good to know what type of duct your house has. If you’re not aware, here is the list of types of HVAC Duct and some information about them:

• Fiberglass Duct Board: This duct uses compressed fiberglass boards that have a foil outer layer. Each joint together is hold by mesh, a foil-backed duct tape, and a duct sealing compound. 
• Galvanized Sheet Metal Systems: This starts with a plenum or a rectangular trunk line. Branch lines then run along with the systems to the individual floor penetrations. The branch lines are either made with smaller rectangular ducts or round sheet metals. What holds the pieces of the sheet metal ducts are S-shaped clips and cleats. The round sheet metal duct is held by screws together. 
• Flex Duct: This is known for being easy to install and inexpensive. This has three layers: inner layer, fiberglass center layer, and an outer layer. The inner layer uses a spiral wire to be able to maintain its shape. The fiberglass center layer gives thermal protection. The outer layer works as a vapor barrier.

Now that you already have prior knowledge with all the types, let’s know how to repair any damaged types of HVAC duct. 

Fiberglass Duct Board

Using the fiberglass duct board does not usually need any maintenance or repair. They are made to be long-lasting and resistant to abuse. However, being exposed to excessive moisture for too long may destroy or contaminate the fiberglass. Most of the time, wet sections dry without issues. But technicians recommend replacing sections of saturated duct board due to mold concerns.

1. Drain the duct. You can do this by poking a small hole in the duct’s foil outer line. You can do it with a screwdriver. Before doing so place a bucket beneath the targeted area so once that you poke a small hole through it, water will pour directly to the bucket. 

2. Cut the damaged section. Using a non-serrated knife, force through the duct and cut out the damaged area/wet area. 

3. Create the replacement patch. You can base the measurement on the cutout or the hole with a tape measure. Apply the measurement on the new sheet of duct board. Cut the board with a non-serrated knife. 

4. Install the patch.  You can install the patch by pressing the patch on the hole until its foil backing fits with the existing duct’s surface. Then, apply a piece of foil-backed duct tape on the seam. Press it with a squeegee. Cover it with a mesh. And lastly, using a paintbrush, coat the mesh with a 1/8 thick layer of duct mastic. 

Sheet Metal Duct

Homes in northern climates often use galvanized sheet metal ducts. This helps to keep the flooring warm. The main problem is that occasionally, the sealant allows the heated air to escape because it loses its grip.

1. Expose the Leaking Seam. On both sides of the area, you are planning to repair, loosen the hanging straps or brackets. Lower the duct to be able to examine the leaking joint thoroughly. Leaks can easily be solved with additional sealant normally. But if we’re talking about large gaps, you should expose and inspect it. If S-lock is missing or incorrectly installed, it might be the cause of the gap. To resolve, take it apart then correctly reconnect it.

2. Repair the S-lock. If applicable, cut the old mastic with a utility knife from the perimeter of the joint. Remove all the screws that might be holding the S-lock in its place. Pull the tabs on the ends of both drives after straightening it. Separate the joint after doing so. Tension might prevent it from being completely separated. Slip the old S-lock from the joint. With a screwdriver, open the S-lock then put it back to its place. Each flat metal on the sides of the duct should slip into the gap created by the screwdriver. Lastly, by using a hammer, install the drives. 

3. Seal the duct joint. With a 1/8-inch thick layer of code-approved cut mastic, cover the joint. Use a paintbrush to do so. There is mastic designed specifically for galvanized sheet metal ducts. 

Flex Duct

Sometimes, you will see an exposed air conditioning duct collar during home inspections. This might happen because the pressure forces the insulation and outer liner away from the collar. By having an exposed collar, expect that the efficiency of your system’s energy is greatly reduced. 

1. Solve it. Next to the slipping connection, add a hanger strap to relieve any tension. Then, place those straps throughout the duct run. 

2. Disconnect the Loose Liner. With pliers or wire cutters, cut the duct strap. Pull away the insulation from the connection. Then, to properly cover the insulation, adjust the outer liner. 

3. Attach the outer liner. On the layer’s butt edge, apply mastic. Mash the material with each other until it gets sealed by the mash. Lock it with a duct strap in place. Lastly, apply mastic to cover the outside of the joint. 

These are the common damages that may occur on your AC duct. These solutions might provide a big help in case you relate to any of those issues. Remember to check what type of duct do you have before doing any actions. It’s also not bad to ask for professional help in case you need some.

What is HVAC?
HVAC is the shortened name for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is used by newly constructed buildings to provide centralized heating and cooling services. It is used to promote high air quality and thermal comfort. Currently, HVAC is more widely used than traditional methods of cooling and heating the environment using a furnace and a window air conditioner. It consists of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Heating refers to the furnace or boiler used to increase the temperature. In HVAC, it passes through a pipe system that carries a fluid containing heat. Next is the ventilation. It is used to remove moisture, smoke, odors, dust, and airborne bacteria or in short it is for the air cleaning purposes. Last, the air conditioning. It is used to remove existing heat in the environment. It is great to install in new buildings or houses because of its all-in-one service to give heat, cool air, and to clean the air. But as with other appliances, it does not last as long as it needs to be considered for better service or in the long run its parts will be damaged and need to be repaired.
But how much does it cost to repair HVAC?

The HVAC repair depends on how big it is and what are the damaged parts that need to be repaired. Most repair services here charge a wage per hour, so it is not a joke to spend a repair on it.

The national average cost of repairing an HVAC will be around $293. The minimum cost of a small parts repair is $75 while the maximum cost of a major repair is $2900. The average range to repair a damage usually ranges from $144 to $451. Most HVAC contractors charge $100 to $150 per hour when doing repairs. When you call a contractor for service they will charge you $75- $200 for the first hour of service and the contractor will take care of how much he will charge for the succeeding hour. The fees are different depending on the services provided because the system may not have the same damage. For tune-ups where they inspect your system for possible failures and to clean your filters, you need $85-$110. For the diagnostic test, they charge $85 to $110. The charge is also different when you need the service as soon as possible or on weekends, it can cost $140 to $250 per hour. For the HVAC inspection cost, it will check if your HVAC is properly installed for proper operation. For inspection costs it costs $50 to $125. For cleaning costs, it costs $35 per air duct or $300- $1000 on average for the whole system. Your HVAC needs to be cleaned every 2-5 years. For maintaining your HVAC to avoid major damage, you may have to maintain a maintenance cost of $15 per month or approximately $150- $300 yearly.

To sum it up it is not easy and cheap to maintain, operate and repair an HVAC system but I’m sure you will enjoy the service it offers especially if you live in a country with four seasons where it is sometimes necessary to cool down or get warmer. Your home may also be safer for airborne bacteria that can cause the disease.

Window air conditioners are getting more and more prevalent in our society nowadays. After all, it is a fast and affordable way of cooling your home environment if you are living in hot to mild climates, as window air conditioners use a minimal amount of energy to maintain your comfort at optimum levels. 

But as with any other appliance, it also needs proper care and maintenance. Inevitably, there will come a point that your air conditioner will need repairs and troubleshooting. If you happen to run in some of these problems, it is always the best thing to call for a repair service for your safety and convenience. But if you want to save some money and try to repair it yourself, here are some tips to help you fix your window air conditioner:

Get to Know Your Air Conditioner

Before you can troubleshoot any other appliance, you must first need to learn and know about the parts that compromise the whole system. You can learn more about your unit by reading your manual. Knowing every part and how each one of them works is a piece of essential knowledge before getting any job done. It will also make it easier for you to understand the potential problems you might encounter. 

Unplug the Unit

Before getting any work done, make sure that your unit is unplugged. Air conditioning units are filled with capacitors, which store electricity even if it is turned off. Before you do any work on your air conditioner, unplug it and discharge the capacitors or you could receive a severe shock. To know where the capacitors are placed, read the manual. It also tells how to discharge them.

Clean Your Unit 

One of the most common problems of air conditioning units is accumulated dirt. Stuck up dirt can prevent your unit from working, especially if it is not cleaned regularly. Cleaning your unit doesn’t only helps it run smoothly, but it also assures you that the air you are breathing in is clean.

Lubricate the Motor

Sometimes, most motors just need a little bit of lubrication to go back to its working state. Go get your motors and bearings and add a little bit of motor oil to keep everything lubricated and smooth.

Check the Fuse

If the indicator light on your unit doesn’t turn on, the circuit probably overloaded. To check, you can look at your unit’s electric panel or fuse box to reset the breaker (if your unit has a circuit breaker) or replace the fuse. 

Repair the Thermostat

One of the most common problems is the thermostat. For this, you can always refer to your manual, as your unit may have specific thermostat parts and features. 

Call for Repair Services

If none of the tips aforementioned above worked for you, it is now the time to call for repair services. After all, it is the safest and most convenient thing to do as they are the ones who are experts in this field. Calling for repair services with a well-known and good reputation lets you enjoy the safety and assures you that you will enjoy your air conditioning unit anytime soon as you’ve enjoyed it as you did before.

And these are the tips for you when you try to fix your air conditioning unit yourself. It’s not a bad thing to do it yourself especially with precautionary measures, but it’s always the best to call for repair services. After all, they are the ones who are experienced in this kind of field. 

As you look at the Mike Macniel Tree Services options, it will be nice to have some sort of a plan or a template to follow when considering tree services. This article should help you get a good idea of what a tree service company offers and how you can use their services for the best possible outcome.

If you are searching for tree removal and/or tree trimming services, then, your best option would be to hire Mike Macniel, and his crew to come out and trim your trees. Although, having a professional crew remove and trim your trees is always a good idea, but if you are only looking for a basic tree service and have no other landscaping needs, then, you can also do the trimming yourself.

But if you are looking for a more comprehensive tree service and are trying to decide between Mike Macniel, a professional crew, or a service that will take care of a minimal amount of landscaping for you, then, a professional crew is the way to go. A crew will typically offer you more hours, better pruning, and a wider variety of services than a crew that will perform a small amount of trimming.

In order to do the basic tree services, you can hire a crew, and a professional crew is great. However, if you are looking for something a little more comprehensive than a basic crew will offer, then, a professional crew is the way to go.

Whether you are doing a bit of landscaping, a small tree service, or an all out major overhaul of your home or yard, Mike Macniel’s crew is the best. Because he is such a gifted landscaper, Mike Macniel has combined a number of services into one.

You may wonder why Mike Macniel has done this. Because he is so talented and creative, he is able to achieve all of these services while having the ability to coordinate several different services into one service.

While his crew does more than just trim trees, Mike Macniel offers a large selection of other services, including tree planting, planting flowerbeds, and even mulching. His crew will be able to complete the details for you, such as help you with grading, which helps with your landscaping goals.

This will also give you peace of mind because you will know that your landscaping will be in the best possible shape. And, by helping you with the landscaping, the crew will also be able to add to your already fantastic yard.

The price that Mike Macniel charges his clients is very reasonable. Most of his crew are contractors, but not all contractors, so when looking for a crew to work for you, make sure that you ask about the prices, to be sure that they are fair.

Another thing to consider is that, Mike Macniel has an open communication line to ensure that you are comfortable with your service. He is able to communicate on all levels, so that you can be sure that you will feel more comfortable with your crew and the work that you receive.

When hiring tree services, make sure that you are using an experienced crew. There are a number of businesses that offer landscaping services, but you want to make sure that you are not taking chances with your yard, your plants, and your trees.

By hiring Mike Macniel to come out and inspect your yard, and trim your trees, you will be able to leave your property with a professional looking yard, and a great looking tree. With the services that he offers, you can have a lot of fun with your landscaping and decorating your yard.