Top Four Professional Tips on Choosing an HVAC Expert

myrtle beach hvac Knowing how to choose an ideal HVAC expert is important because not all of them are the same. Doing your research could reveal the distinction between obtaining a strong, skilled air conditioner expert and getting scammed. In some places, people pretend to be experts when they are just simple handymen with trucks and a label. However, do not think that all HVAC experts are not what they say they are. Not all of them misbehave. To help you with this dilemma, here are a few things to remember when choosing an ideal HVAC Expert

How To Find The Best HVAC Expert

1. Watch out for HVAC Contractors who provide quotes over the phone. 

Be careful of these experts who can give an estimate over the phone. This is because there are several factors to consider that an expert needs to personally check to be able to give an appropriate quote. These factors include:

• Ducting
• An appropriate quantity of signs up each area
• Type of insulation
• Home windows types

None of these could be checked through phone conversation only. So once somebody provides you a proposal over the phone, they are either unskilled or are attempting to get your service without checking your unit first.

1. Check whether the HVAC contractor is updated with current technologies.

It is not enough that a heating and cooling service can claim they have over 20 years of experience. There are brand-new as well as interesting modern technologies that lower your energy prices and are a lot more reliable at cooling down. Make sure your professional is experienced enough to show the different technologies that help you lower your energy bill but help maintain your heating and cooling system.

1. Your HVAC contractor should be accredited by South Carolina’s Licensing Board

Your Heating and Cooling contractor should be accredited by South Carolina’s Licensing Board. There are several HVAC contractors who declare to be certified but are in fact, functioning under the radar. You do not want a person who is not really shutting off your gas line, or appropriately dealing with a cooling agent. A specialist needs to have their permit number plainly noted on the majority of, otherwise all, of their leaflets and on their internet site.

1. Beware about choosing an HVAC contractor offering the most affordable quote.

More than 25% of people who claim to have bargained service installation say that their air conditioning unit suddenly stopped working. Grand Strand Heating and Cooling, advises homeowners to be wary of promos and discounts from fraudulent people. Try to get several quotes from different HVAC experts in your area. Ask about how long it takes for them to do the job and the materials and products they use. Just remember that it is less costly to choose a contractor in advance, even if they are a bit more costly if that expert knows everything about heating and cooling systems and has adequate experience performing such repairs.

When it comes to heating and cooling repair and maintenance, do not settle for anything less, call Grand Strand Heating and Cooling now!

  Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/

http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/professional-tips-choosing-hvac-expert/

Safety Precautions with Your Myrtle Beach Air Conditioner Repair

There are many air conditioner repair alternatives that are relatively quick and easy to do for the average handyman. However, there are also some harmful elements to cooling repair that ought to be well understood prior to beginning any repair work.

What To Consider During Air Conditioner Repair

1. The very first and most evident security issues when it comes to cooling repair is that this is an electrical home appliance, and as such have to be entirely detached from the electric outlet before starting on the repair work. Merely turning the device control into the off position is not enough, rather the unit needs to be entirely unplugged or the electrical wiring disconnected to the power source. This is especially essential when working within the system or around the fan location of the air conditioning unit.
2. Another relatively obvious component to air conditioning repair, which is also a safety concern is regarding the window and wall mounted systems. These devices can be extremely heavy for their small size and are generally tough and awkward to physically handle by one person. If you have to remove the air conditioning unit from its location, through the repair work, be sure to have at least another individual to help with the job. This can be a little tough with heavy window mount systems that will need somebody on the inside as well as somebody on the outside to successfully move the system without harming the home window frame or leading to some kind of physical injury.
3. If the forced air or conventional cooling systems are utilized, the person doing the installation might not have the proper training and might have done a poor job with the vent lines from the a/c unit might have been improperly hooked to the sewage lines or the plumbing vents. In these circumstances the system can build up dangerous levels of bacteria in the wet, damp conditions developed in the lines plus sewage system gases can also back up through the air conditioning system developing major health concerns. If any foul odor or smell is seen in the air conditioning system or in the air when it is on, do not try the cooling repair work yourself, rather contact an expert that can securely remedy the issue.
4. Newer units use other coolants that are safer than Freon which is not dangerous itself in small amounts unless there is an open flame present. If you think that the air conditioning system is leaking coolant or if you smell any unusual smells in the room or air after completing some kind of air conditioning repair the best alternative is to turn the unit off and instantly contact a skilled and licensed service technician. Because Freon is odorless it is most likely not the problem, nevertheless, there might be some other problem that is triggering the visible odor. Make sure all heating systems, stoves or other types of flame is totally out in your house or area up until the unit can be examined and fixed.

Most homes in the Myrtle Beach area utilize central air conditioning systems. Whether your unit is in need of repair or general maintenance, call Grand Strand Heating And Cooling and we will be right out to assist.

  Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/

http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/safety-precautions-myrtle-beach-air-conditioner/

Why Tune-Up Your Myrtle Beach Air Conditioning Before Winter

Winter is just around the corner and now is the time to have your Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating system undergo a tune-up. If you have not done so already, make sure you call your local A.C. contractor and schedule your system for a tune-up. It is extremely important to keep your heating furnace in tip top shape all throughout the year. But to ensure that there will not be any danger or emergency situations – especially when the weather has become cold – you may want to have your furnace undergo a tune-up before the winter season. Here are the important and major components of your Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating system that needs to be checked and tuned-up in preparation for the cold months.

1. Filters Even if you regularly change or clean your filters, it helps if you include them in your tune-up checklist. Aside from checking whether or not they are clean and free from any trapped debris, dirt or dust, also check their overall condition. Find out whether or not they are still in good condition to efficiently function. If they aren’t, replace them immediately.

This is also a good time to consider investing in a higher quality filter. Because your Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating system will be working harder this season, you might want to equip it with high quality parts and components to ensure it will work as efficiently as possible. Plus, keep in mind that a furnace that has difficulties heating or cooling your indoor air, works harder and uses more energy.

2. Combustion chamber To clean your furnace’s combustion chamber, all you have to do is vacuum the interior. Make sure there is no dirt and dust left inside, as well as inspect for any holes or gaps. If you notice any, use foil tape to cover and secure them. Don’t forget to switch the unit off and cut the fuel supply before you vacuum the chamber.

3. Bearings As part of your winter tune-up, spend time to put some oil in your furnace’s bearings. Start with the motor bearings and blower-shaft bearings. Use lightweight machine oil to lubricate your bearings. Clean their caps by wiping with cloth before removing them. Add a couple of drops of oil and then replace the caps. Make sure you do not put too much oil as this will damage the entire furnace system.

4. Blower compartment Similarly, with the combustion chamber, you need to vacuum the blower compartment as well. You also need to look for holes in the compartment and cover them with foil tape. Include in your cleaning and inspection the rest of the ductwork of your furnace system.

Need an expert to help you in tuning up your Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating system in time for the winter season? Call Grand Strand Heating And Cooling now.

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/ Providing you with unparalleled Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating services.

http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/tuneup-myrtle-beach-air-conditioning/

Air Conditioning Repair — What You Need to Know To Be Safe

There are a great number of a/c repair alternatives that are relatively easy and easy to do for the average handyman or handywoman, however, there are also some harmful elements to cooling repair that ought to be well understood prior to beginning any repair work project. The very first and most evident security issues when it comes to cooling repair is that this is an electrical home appliance, and as such have to be entirely detached from the electric outlet before starting on the repair work. Merely turning the device control into the off position is not all that is required, rather the unit needs to be entirely unplugged or the electrical wiring disconnected to the source of power. This is especially essential when working within the system or around the fan location of the air conditioning unit.

Air Conditioning Repair Tips You Need To Know

Another relatively obvious component to air conditioning repair that is a safety concern is certain to the window and wall mounted systems. These devices can be extremely heavy for their small size and generally are tough and awkward to physically handle for one person. If throughout the repair work you have to remove the air conditioning unit from its location be sure to have at least another individual to help with the job. This can be much more tough with heavy window mount systems that will need somebody on the inside as well as somebody on the exterior of your home to successfully move the system without harming the window frame or leading to some kind of physical injury. If the forced air or conventional cooling systems are utilized the person doing the installation might not have the proper training and might have been done a poor job with the vent lines from the a/c unit might have been improperly hooked to the sewage lines or the plumbing vents. In these circumstances the system can build up dangerous levels of bacteria in the wet, damp conditions developed in the lines plus sewage system gases can also back up through the air conditioning system developing major health concerns. If any foul odor or smell is seen in the air conditioning system or in the air when it is on, do not try the cooling repair work yourself, rather contact an expert that can securely remedy the issue. Newer units use other coolants that are safer than freon which is not dangerous itself in small amounts unless there is an open flame present. If you think that the air conditioning system is leaking coolant or if you smell any unusual smells in the room or air after completing some kind of air conditioning repair the best alternative is to turn the unit off and instantly contact a skilled and licensed service technician. Because Freon is odorless it is most likely not the problem, nevertheless, there might be some other problem that is triggering the visible odor. Make sure all heating systems, stoves or other types of flame is totally out in your house or area up until the unit can be examined and fixed.

Most homes in the Myrtle Beach area utilize central air conditioning systems. Whether your unit is in need of repair or general maintenance, call Grand Strand Heating And Cooling and we will be right out to assist.

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/

http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/air-conditioning-repair-know-safe/

Cut the Cost Of Running Your Air Conditioner

The days are warming up and it will soon be time to run on the air conditioner. I love the fresh air coming in through the windows and I put off turning on the air conditioner for a long as possible (much to my spouse’s dismay.) If you haven’t done so already, this is the time to call for your annual service before we are in the midst of “the dog days of summer” and you have a problem. But this post is not about servicing your air conditioner. Have you ever thought about what it takes to run your air conditioner? When you compare running your central air conditioner to using a household fan or ceiling fan, the difference is phenomenal. In today’s economy, we are all looking for ways to save a few dollars.

Factors that affect running an air conditioner

Just a few of the factors that will affect the cost of running your central air conditioner are the geographical local of your home, the amount shading around your home and the amount of work your air conditioner has to do to keep your home cool. All of these will affect the cost. Here in Myrtle Beach, we can have boiling summers (and they are predicting one this year) and your air conditioner will have to work overtime to maintain a certain comfort level. If you are looking for a new home, you will want to ask for copies of the electric bill from any home on which you are seriously considering making an offer. You should be able to obtain this information from your local utility company. Be sure and ask for the last three years as the weather conditions from year to year will make a big difference in the cost of running the air conditioner. Another factor that affects your air conditioner cost is the efficiency rating of the unit. Almost all appliances have been rated and your air conditioner will have a tag when you purchased the unit stating the amount of electricity that it will use. If you are in need of a new air conditioner, you will want to look for one that uses minimal electricity which will save you money. If your unit is over 10 years old or if you are not sure of the efficiency rating of your system, you will want to contact an HVAC specialist to get a quote on a new system. Over time, upgrading your air conditioner can pay for itself in lower electric bills. The size of the air conditioning unit versus the house-cooling load is another factor to consider. All central air conditioners come in various sizes and each size will state the amount of space it is specifically designed to manage. You will need to consider the amount of space in your home that you want to cool if you are considering a new air conditioner. Even though a larger unit will cost more, it will save you money in the long run. This can make a HUGE difference in your utility bill – where you set your thermostat. (This can be the cause of major household disagreements!) It is no secret that a higher setting will result in your air conditioner not running as frequently. By keeping your thermostat above the 78-degree level, you can save up to 20% in cooling costs. Many residents in the Myrtle Beach area are transplants from the north. In the northeast, most homes do not use heat pumps like those installed in Myrtle Beach homes. Us northerners are used to cutting back the thermostat when we are not home for extended periods of time like while at work and then kicking on the air conditioner when we arrive home. With a heat pump, this habit will not save money - it will actually cost you more. The reason is the coils in the heat pump unit have to work harder to bring the air temperature up to a cooler level cause a rise in the use of electricity. The most cost-effective use of your air conditioner is to set a level where most family members are comfortable and leave it there. Of course, the cost of electricity locally will influence your bill but there isn’t much you can do about that. However, you can control costs with a few simple changes.

Running an air conditioner versus running a ceiling or oscillating fan

Let’s take a simple example. Running a three-ton air conditioner for approximately 8 hours a day for a total of 15 days in the month with an average kilowatt per hour rate of 17 cents (you can get this number from your electric bill) will cost around $98. Keep in mind that doesn’t include running the dishwasher, the clothes dryer, the refrigerator and stove or the lights. Just the air conditioner. Compare this to running a ceiling fan on medium speed for that same 8 hours but instead, we will use a full 30 days – the cost is less than $2! What a saving. What you can do to lower your electric bill

• Inspect and either clean or replace your air conditioner filter on a regular basis
• Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees (or consider a waterless water heater.)
• Wash on full loads of clothes and use the energy cycle on the dryer (better yet use a solar dry – hang your clothes on an old fashioned clothesline.)
• Replace older incandescent light bulbs with the new fluorescent lamps – you will save an average of 75% on your light bill.
• Caulk windows, doors and pipes where air can seep out of your home. The spring is a good time of year to call your local handyman and have them go over your home and look for air leaks before the heat of the summer.
• Have your ducts cleaned and tested for leakage? A leak in an air duct can cause up to a 25% reduction in the efficiency of your air conditioner.

Now is the time to give Grand Strand Heating And Cooling a call. We can clean your air ducts, change your filters and give your air condition system a complete check. If your system is over 10 years old or if you are experienced a problem, we can give you an estimate on a new system and show you how you can save money with a newer, energy efficient air conditioner.

Call us today for all your air conditioning needs.

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com

http://hvacmyrtlebeach.com/cost-running-air-conditioner/

Hot Summer Air Conditioning Repair Tips

To keep your cool all summer long, you should have already “tuned up” your entire heating and cooling system before the hot weather hits, but even if you didn’t do that, it’s not too late to call for a quick “once over.”  It may save you bunches of cash later on when the sweltering heat of July and August and even the Indian summer days of September and October take their toll. A few simple air conditioning repair tweaks here and there are all it will take to ensure that your air conditioning unit is operating at maximum efficiency and will keep you cool as long as the temperatures are rising outside.

Here are a few tips from your Myrtle Beach Air Conditioning experts and from the United States Department of Energy

• Weather stripping - It’s not enough to just keep the warm air outside your home; you have to keep the cool air inside as well.  Pay close attention to the weather stripping around your doors and windows, and the caulking, too.  It’s wise to have lots of insulation both in the attic as well as underneath a home that is not sitting on a slab.
• Vents- How are your vents working?  Is the air flowing freely and properly?  Check out the ductwork for airflow leaks in the form of holes or even joints that are separated.  You could try to fix these things on your own, but the safest and wisest thing to do is call a professional.
• Ducts - Sometimes your air conditioning system will require that ducts actually reside in spaces that are not air conditioned themselves, (garages, attics, crawl spaces, for example) and in these situations, the insulation of this conduits is critical.  Use lots of insulation material on your air conditioning ducts when they are found in spaces that are not cooled, such as in your garages, crawl spaces under your house, or in your attics.
• SEER Rating - Do you know what your SEER rating is for your cooling system?  If you don’t, you should.  Those letters mean:  seasonal energy efficiency rating. With a higher SEER rating, your cooling system will be more efficient, and your power bills should be lower. You can upgrade to a unit with a higher SEER rating and save hundreds of dollars during the year on your electric bills. Should you need to replace your air conditioning unit or system, you should note that the United States Department of Energy passed a law that requires that all new cooling systems manufactured after January 23, 2006, must have a SEER rating of at least 13

Do you have a fireplace?  Don’t forget about it in the summer just because you’re not using it – take extra care to be sure the damper is not left open in the summer. If you have any questions about air conditioning repair, please call the Myrtle Beach Air Conditioning experts at 843-293-8534. Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/  

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