HVAC Holiday Tips To Save on Energy Costs

Now that everyone is feeling the holiday spirit, you might notice a little change in your household. Did your energy bill in the past few months look a little scarier than you anticipated? With all the festivities and exceptional food to be discovered these holiday season, it can be simple to forget that we consume a great deal of energy this time of year. You may wonder where all these came from? Well, it came from your HVAC system To be able to lower your energy costs this holiday season, Grand Strand Heating And Cooling have some practical tips for you.

Reputable Heating Tips for the Holidays

Are you worried that scheduling HVAC system maintenance will interfere with your holiday festivities? Here’s what you can do.

1. To lower your energy use

Try to keep your energy use at 70 percent. We ensure all of the visitors and cooking will offset the heat loss, and you'll be cutting a huge amount of energy your heating system or heat pump draws up.

1. HVAC Filter Change

This part cannot be fully dictated by an HVAC expert since it depends on the homeowner’s frequency of use. To be on the safe side, change your filter once a month for the best results. You can also upgrade to polyester filters for a service that lasts a couple of months longer.

1. Regular Cleaning

You're most likely doing this at the moment, specifically if you’re hosting some holiday parties. While you're at it, you can pay specific attention to vent grates and around your HVAC system. It will help you avoid fire hazard, you'll enhance the air circulation of your heating system!

Never forget you Professional HVAC System Maintenance?

Following the tips above is a great way to keep your HVAC System running smoothly. However, if you wish to get the most performance and convenience out of your system this season, ensure you schedule HVAC system maintenance. It's simply hands-down the most essential thing to stay up to date with, especially if you do not like breakdowns and substantial heating expenses. If you missed your fall maintenance schedule, Grand Strand Heating And Cooling can help you with this. Energy Saving Tips

• Disconnect devices when not in use. Yes, they still utilize power; even when turned off!
• Convert to LED As much as 10 times more performance from your lights is a big offer.
• Prepare effectively. Fit as much into your oven as you can at the same time. Those things use up lots of power to run.

To be able to enjoy your holidays and still save more on your energy bill, follow the practical tips above. For HVAC Maintenance, call Grand Strand Heating And Cooling.

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

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How To Choose The Best Myrtle Beach HVAC Company

In today’s competitive heating and air conditioning industry, it’s hard to separate the best from the rest. Just try doing an online search and you will get a dozen or more Myrtle Beach HVAC companies near to where you live. So how then, do you know what to look for to make sure you choose wisely?

Tips for Finding The Best Myrtle Beach HVAC Company

Hours: If you think you would ever need a 24-hour service, call around ahead of time and see which Myrtle Beach HVAC company offers it. It’s good to know these things when you’re not having an emergency. Otherwise, just make sure that you can work with whatever hours of operation they normally have. Location: Where is the company and how long would it take them to reach you? If you think it would be a long time before a technician could reach your house, then you may want to look into finding a company located closer to you. Price: Take a good hard look at the pricing schedule of that particular HVAC company. Does it fit your budget should you ever need them? Find out about any discounts or specials that the company might run through the year. Also, another good thing to ask about is whether they offer free estimates. The key here is to make sure it’s a company you can afford to use. Stability: When choosing a HVAC company, you will want to find a company that has been doing business for five or more years to ensure that they are qualified and experienced. Experience: Keep in mind that the number of years the company has been in business doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best qualified for your particular needs. Find out ahead of time if they have the capability of easily fixing your problem, or at the very least, be familiar with your heating and cooling system to find out if it’s one they regularly service. Doing this could save you some serious frustration down the road! Reviews: Many people post reviews online today about any service they use. It’s a great way to gauge what other people are saying and if they had a positive experience with that particular HVAC company. Word of mouth is still the best advertising and that’s true on the Internet as well. It won’t take you long to see the consistencies of great reviews for certain companies. That will help you narrow your search down all by itself! The bottom line here is to plan ahead. If you’ve ever been a homeowner with a heating or cooling system that has gone out, you know that it’s a true emergency. These break downs are inevitable and should be planned for. The key is planning for them before it happens so you will know whom to call.

It can cut down on the stress level tremendously to have your plan for a HVAC company in place ahead of time. Call Grand Strand Heating and Cooling today ans ask about our services for future reference. You never know when you will need help.

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

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How To Easily Get Your HVAC Ducts In A Row

Your HVAC obviously exerts more effort in the summer months than any other time of the year. So you’ll need to devise a plan to efficiently use your cooling units to avoid overuse, extend the life of the unit and maintain manageable utility bills. Basically, when it’s hot outside, it will be warmer in your home causing your air conditioner unit operating for longer periods. To prevent a hike on your electricity bill,  using an average moderate temperatures inside the house is recommended. To go through summer without using your air conditioning unit would be difficult and impractical. But there are ways to efficiently use it without spending a lot of money – particularly on your electricity bill and repairs to your cooling units. One of the best ways to limit your costs is to check your AC’s ductwork.

How is your HVAC ductwork?

It is not a common fact for many homeowners that the air conditioning ductwork actually affects the efficient use of your home air conditioning unit; faulty or inefficient ductwork will exert more power and use more electricity. According to HVAC professionals, a huge aspect of a unit’s cooling efficiency can be traced back to its pipework. When this ductwork is a winding and confusing maze, your the AC unit takes longer than necessary to cool a room.

Here are a few things you might want to check in your ductwork:

• Any obstructions within the pipes
• Proper alignment of each duct
• Air gaps where cold air could possibly leak

These factors will cause the cooling unit to use more energy in cooling the summer’s hot air. The more energy your unit uses, the higher your utility bill. To prevent this from happening, here are some helpful tips:

• Regularly check your air conditioning ductwork
• Look closely for any gaps or holes within each pipe
• Completely seal every gap and hole that you find

If the problem seems more than you can handle, call in a professional

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling is a team of highly reputed HVAC professionals to help you with any problem regarding your ductwork. Call them now to inquire about their services!

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

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HVAC Inspection & Repair by the Season

It's important to maintain your HVAC system by remembering to do preventative repair for each season. If you have a HVAC system that keeps your home the right temperature year around it's important to keep in mind the different seasons when inspecting your HVAC to make sure it will work for the season. There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to your HVAC unit, including: The age of the system, whether it currently works to capacity, the last time you changed your air filter and much more. If your system is not keeping your home at a comfortable temperature it's time to call in a professional who will know what to look for. * Spring -- When the first days of spring are upon you it's time to check that your air conditioning system is ready for the season. This involves an AC tune up. The professional will ensure that the AC is in good working order before the hottest days of the summer are upon you. * Summer -- It's important to change the filter monthly, especially if someone in your home suffers from allergies, but even more important to change it after Spring, moving into summer. Check that air flow is correct, tighten any electrical connections, and monitor refrigerant pressure. Don't forget to clean your condensate drain. * Fall -- When fall is upon you it's time to get another tune up but this time with heating your home in mind. Check thermostat calibration, clean the heat pump assembly, and check again for proper air flow and change the filter. Both Spring and Fall are high allergy times and you want to remove allergens that can make your family uncomfortable. Also, be sure to measure the temperature difference between supply air and return air. * Winter -- Now that winter is upon you, again, ensure that you've changed all filters, tightened all electrical components and lubricated all moving parts. Double check HVAC equipment condition area and clearance from debris to avoid furnace fires. A lot of HVAC units are in closets that also end up as storage repositories, ensure that there is plenty of clearance to avoid fire hazards. Every season pay attention to whether or not your system is making noises that it shouldn't, whether there are smells that you don't want there, and other issues that can affect performance. Grand Strand Heating and Cooling, your HVAC professional offers packages for Winter and Summer tune ups to help make the most out of your HVAC system, keeping you and your family cool or warm as the case may be. It's important to have regular maintenance before problems begin and definitely alert your professional to any differences that you've noticed in your HVAC's performance. The days are starting to get cooler – finally! Now is a great time to have the heating and cooling specialist at Grand Strand Heating And Cooling go over your HVAC system and make sure it is ready for cooler weather. Call us today to schedule a convenient time. Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/  

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Top Myrtle Beach Heating Problems A Homeowner Faces

This time of year Myrtle Beach heating systems (often referred to as HVAC systems) play an important role in ensuring every homeowner’s comfort and ease at home. However, regardless of how much you take care of your heating unit, problems and issues seem to still find their way to mess up its operations. This is why it has become important for every homeowner to not only implement regular maintenance routine and check up for their heat pumps but also to learn about common heating unit problems and how to handle and resolve them. Although common problems related to your heating system can be resolved on your own without professional assistance, it is still highly recommended to leave the more complex problems to experienced and certified HVAC professionals. There are several reasons to this. One is it would save you more time and money by hiring a professional do the necessary repairs. With their expertise, you will know that the work will be completed right the first time. Thus, you won't have to worry about problems which usually arise when you do the repairs on your own. Plus, these Myrtle Beach heating and air conditioning professionals have the necessary tools, knowledge and skills to expertly resolve any problems or issues. Despite this, however, it is still important that you as a homeowner should learn about the common problems and issues associated with your HVAC system. This is particularly helpful when your contractor is  unable to arrive at your place immediately.

Some of the common problems you might experience with your air conditioning and heating system include:

• Blown fuses – This is characterized by motors going bad. Fuses play an important role specifically in preventing overheating of your unit’s motor or compressor. It may seem odd, but even in the frigid temperatures a heating unit can overheat. There are lots of different reasons why your HVAC’s fuse could blow up. Regardless of the reasons, however, it is important that your contractor take a look at your breaker box as soon as possible. 

• Contacts are worn out – Ac contactor is an electrically controlled switch used for switching a power circuit, similar to a relay except with higher current ratings. Contacts play an important role in the operations of your heating and air conditioning. There are three contacts, one for compressor, one in the condenser fan motor, and another one in the blower motor all work to create electrical connection and allow your heat pump to cool or warm your indoor air. Over time, your contacts may have worn out due to continued and repetitive use. Thus, arcing and pitting can result, which will block the smooth flow of electrical current in the contacts. If there is no electrical current, motors and compressors will not start and your HVAC unit will not operate. 

• Burned out capacitors – Basically, HVAC units have two capacitors. The run capacitor which works to ensure motors run at consistent speed particularly in microfarads. The other one are the start capacitors which give your compressor an increase in starting torque. 

Like your contacts, these capacitors can burn out through time as a result of continued and repetitive use. Should this happen, all you have to do is replace them with new ones. If you don’t know how, have your repairman or local contractor do the job for you.

• Corroded gas valve – The gas valve is what helps control the flow of gas from your gas line to your home heating unit. Gas is most often used during winter when you need to warm your indoor air. Over time, the gas valve can become corroded at which point, it won’t be able to do an efficient job of controlling the gas for your HVAC’s heating purposes. Thus, you may get varying temperatures of indoor air throughout the day. Should this be the case, all you have to do is replace the gas valve with a new one. Do not try to clean it as this will only cause more problems and damage to your furnace. 

• Clogged filters – Although this is already included in your regular maintenance routine and you probably already follow a schedule of when to change your clogged filters, it is still important to check them at least once a week to ensure they are not clogged. Keep in mind that continuing to use a clogged filter prevents smooth airflow from your furnace to your air vents. As a result, your unit and vents may freeze because not all the cold air is coming out because of the clogged filters. 

One way to tell your filters are clogged is to hold them up against a source of lighting. If you see light pass thru, it is still okay to use. Otherwise, you will need to replace them if they are disposable or clean them if you have the reusable types of filters.

• Thermostat settings – Sometimes when your heating unit will not turn on and start to operate, you instantly panic and call your HVAC company for assistance. Before you do this, however, make sure that your thermostat is actually turned on, has working batteries, and is in the right settings. Most of the time, according to professionals, the cause of heating units not working or starting up properly is due to a nonworking thermostat. 

• Clogged drain lines – You will have to regularly check your drain lines and make sure they are not clogged. Dirt accumulation or algae development can cause to clog your drain lines. And when that happens, your drain pan will fill up and overflow causing leaks and water damage throughout your home. To prevent this from happening, make sure your regularly check your drain lines for signs of clogging. 

• Leaking refrigerant – According to professionals, refrigerant may leak from your unit due to the continuous vibrations while it is operating. This is a dangerous and costly especially if the leaks are found in the condenser or evaporator. This cannot be repaired. Your other option would be to replace your heat pump. If the leak is found at other areas or parts of your HVAC unit, it will be easy and safe for your technician to remove the leak and charge the unit in the right levels. 

Remember to work only with Myrtle Beach heating professionals when it comes to necessary repairs to your furnace. Call Grand Strand Heating And Cooling now to inquire about their services.

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/   Your only source of high quality and legit information and services on Myrtle Beach air conditioning and heating.

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Saving Money on HVAC Myrtle Beach

Let’s face it – owning and operating your heating and air conditioning system takes some bucks.  It’s the primary thing that makes for a high electric bill.  In the south, we all breathe a little easier when the long hot summers are over and we can watch our power bills go down.  So saving money on your Myrtle Beach HVAC system is something most people are very interested in.

We have some tips to save money on your HVAC system:

• Thermostat  setting - Set your thermostat at a median level.  Avoid wild extremes.  If you set your AC unit really low because it’s really hot outside, you’re just ensuring that your air conditioner will never shut off and your electric bill will be off the charts!  Choose a temperature you and your family can tolerate and not be miserable and then leave it alone!
• Insulation - Pay attention to your insulation.  Bad or no insulation is a recipe for budget disaster.  If you don’t have adequate insulation in your roof or ceiling, you really ought to not even have AC.  More cooling or heating is lost through the ceiling than anywhere else.  It’s simply essential, and really not that expensive.  It can even be a do-it-yourself job with proper guidance.  If your house has a crawl space, you also need a layer of insulation underneath your flooring.  Don’t skimp on this, or you’ll pay the price with high electric bills.
• Filters - Keep your filters clean!  This is the least expensive and one of the most effective things you can possibly do.  Changing out your filters will not only cut costs, but it will also give your HVAC unit a longer life.  It’s also a health issue.  You can prevent circulating pollutants around in your air flow by keeping clean filters.
• Check for gaps and leaks.  Hold your hand down at the bottom of your doors.  In the winter, do you feel a cold draft?  In the summer, do you feel heat seeping in?  How about your windows? It’s not that big of a job to seal your windows and doors.  It will cost a few dollars, but you’ll literally save thousands of dollars over the life of your home.
• When to buy - Don’t buy your HVAC system in the middle of the summer.  Try to plan replacements and upgrades in between seasons (spring or fall).  Your HVAC service company won’t be rushed and typically, your prices will be lower.  Of course, you must take care of emergencies, but if you can possibly plan ahead, remember this tip.

To get all your HVAC questions answered, call the HVAC Myrtle Beach specialists - Grand Strand Heating And Cooling.

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

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Help Your HVAC Keep Your House Cool

Keeping your house cool shouldn’t be the sole responsibility of your HVAC system. There are things you can do to help keep your house cool throughout summer. Not only will this help lower your utility bills but it also helps with HVAC maintenance in an efficiently working condition. Follow these tips and help your HVAC system keep your house cool and comfortable.

 Keep sunlight outside your house

Although natural light help make a room lighter and feel bigger, too much sunlight inside the house raises the temperature making it more difficult for air conditioning system to cool the air inside. You can prevent too much sunlight from getting inside your house by using light-colored drapes as these effectively reflect sunlight. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends installing awnings on your windows especially those facing south and west as these are where most sunlight comes from. You can also opt to install shutters. Aside from blocking too much sun, these also provide your house with added security and protection.

Cross-ventilate your house

When the air outside is cooler than inside your house, do not only stay outside to enjoy the cool atmosphere. Invite the cool air inside your house cool by opening windows and doors. This effectively lowers the temperature of everything inside including those that easily absorbs heat such as your walls, furniture, and floors. For maximum effect, open windows on the opposite sides of your house.

Turn off appliances not being used

Appliances that are still plugged in but are not being used produces heat that helps to raise the temperature inside your house. If there are lots of appliances that you need to unplug, make it easier by connecting them to a single power strip. Your HVAC system already has lots of obstacles to face in lowering the temperature inside your house. Make it a little easy for your furnace by reducing heat inside the house.

Limit your use of appliances that produce heat and steam

These include your gas range, ovens, stove, washer, and dryer. Try not to use them during the hotter part of the day so as not to add to the already high temperature inside your house. If you need to dry your clothes, hang them on a line outside. You’ll be surprised at how much faster they will dry as compared to when you use your dryer.

Plant more trees and vines outside

Trees and vines not only add shade and warm areas outside your house. They also help block sunlight on your windows. Plant them by your west-facing walls as this is where the sun shines the strongest. Remember to choose plants that are native to your area to make it easy for you to take care of them. Plus, these plants have higher chances of survival even if you do not fully commit to caring for them.

Get more tips on efficiently using your HVAC system by speaking to a representative of Grand Strand Heating And Cooling.

Grand Strand Heating And Cooling Acme Contractors Myrtle Beach, SC 843-491-6400 http://www.hvacmyrtlebeach.com/ Call us today for your HVAC maintenance needs.

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