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Your air conditioning system is a crucial part of delivering comfort throughout your home. This is especially true during the hot summer months, but Colorado’s unpredictable climate means you might have days during the chillier months that need the cooling of AC, as well. That means you need your air conditioning system in tip top shape all year long, making maintenance and AC repair in Denver a concern in any month.

When your AC starts blowing warm air, it can be frustrating. Your comfort level was already of concern, and now you’re adding the stress of HVAC repair on top of it. There are a number of different things that can cause your air conditioner to act this way, so it’s important not to jump to the worst-case scenario right away. From minor maintenance to serious system failures, it’s critical to learn how to troubleshoot. This can help you get some solutions to get it running efficiently again right away – or help you understand that it’s time to call in the professionals.

Inspect Your Thermostat

The thermostat is the nerve center of your air conditioning system, so this is the first place to start looking if there is something going on with your AC. If it’s not set correctly or otherwise malfunctioning, it can lead to warmer air coming from your vents. As simple as this sounds, be sure to check whether the settings are currently set to “heat” instead of “cool.” It’s a common mistake that happens more often than you think, and is a very simple fix. Also check the batteries in the thermostat to make sure they still have juice.

There may also be malfunctioning sensors or internal wiring issues going on. If the thermostat is older or you find it’s constantly not working properly, consider upgrading it to a programmable or smart thermostat. These modern upgrades can make a world of difference in the heating and cooling of your home, not only from a convenience standpoint, but from a consistency standpoint, as well. This will enable you to set the temperature of your rooms remotely, and some systems can even adjust the temperature for each room.

Check Your Filters

Another common culprit can be the air filters in your system. Air filters trap the dust, dirt, and other debris that flows through your system to make sure that you maintain good air quality throughout your home. This also plays a key role in making sure your system is performing correctly. When they become clogged, air flow gets restricted, causing the AC unit to potentially overwork itself – causing it to blow warm air.

There can be numerous things that cause these filters to get clogged, but the most common one is just simple passage of time. Your AC unit is working to keep your home comfortable, but it’s also working to make sure the air you breathe is good quality. If you haven’t changed the filter for a while or there hasn’t been regular maintenance on the system, this can cause the filters to clog up. Operating in a dusty environment can also lead to the filters clogging more quickly. Check your filters monthly and replace them every three months or as needed, depending on the usage and manufacturer’s recommendation. Be sure to use high-quality filters that match your system’s specifications.

Watch for Leaks & Freezing

There are a lot of components to your AC unit, and they need to be maintained. If they aren’t properly inspected or maintained, then they can break down like any machine. One of the most vital components of the cooling process is the refrigerant. If there’s a leak, the AC will not have enough refrigerant to cool the air properly. If there has been physical damage to the system, or improper installation, leaks might be more likely to occur. However, even normal wear and tear can lead to refrigerant leaks. If you notice a leak, be sure to call a certified HVAC technician to locate and properly repair the leak.

The evaporator coil is another crucial component, as it absorbs the heat from the indoor air. However, if this coil becomes frozen, it won’t be able to perform its function properly, which can lead to warm air being blown into your home. This can be caused by restricted airflow from dirty filters or blocked vents, or when refrigerant levels get too low. This can also occur if you run the AC unit at too low of a temperature for an extended period of time. To fix this, you must turn off the AC until the coils are completely thawed. Be sure to check and clean your air filter and make sure that all vents are open and unblocked. Be sure to regularly inspect your system to prevent further leaks or freezing up, and consult a technician if problems continue.

 Watch for Electrical Issues

The electrical components of the air conditioning system, including the capacitors and relays, play a critical role in its operation. If any of these parts fail or aren’t working optimally, your system can malfunction and blow warm air into your home. The electrical system in your AC unit is sensitive, and can start to not perform as it should through a variety of reasons. Power surges and electrical failures can harm and damage your system, and so can corroded or loose wiring. These parts can also become faulty just through the simple aging process, as well. Consider using surge protectors for your system to help prevent any electrical damage in the future.

Make sure to inspect your circuit breaker and reset it, if necessary. This is another easy fix that often gets overlooked. Do not work with electrical components on your own. Along with the electrical components, your compressor is also vital because it’s responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the entire cooling process is disrupted. This is tied to your electrical system, and can also be caused by common electrical issues. It can also become faulty through simple wear and tear. Schedule an HVAC technician to diagnose replace faulty electrical components.

Dirty Condensers & Compressor Issues

There are some components of your system that might need maintenance because of dirt and dust. Outdoors, the condenser unit is the component that releases heat absorbed from your home. If it becomes dirty or blocked, that heat won’t be expelled properly, which can cause warm air to circulate back inside the home. This blockage doesn’t have to be from dirt, as debris like grass and leaves surrounding the unit can also cause issues. Routine inspections and maintenance around the outdoor unit can go a long way in preventing this type of blockage. Simply remove any debris or vegetation around the unit to ensure proper air flow, and turn off the AC and carefully clean it.

The compressor is another component, and it’s vital to the operation of your air conditioner. The heart of your AC system, the compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the entire cooling system could be completely disrupted. Many of these issues are caused by electrical issues or overheating, but they can also be caused by imbalances in the refrigerant and simple age-related wear and tear. Schedule a professional inspection to determine if the compressor can be repair or if it needs to be replaced. Annual professional maintenance can help keep your condenser unit and compressor in optimal condition. This regular maintenance can also extend the life of your unit.

Ductwork & Vents

Inside the home, your ductwork is responsible for distributing cooled air throughout your home. If there’s an issue where cooled air isn’t reaching certain areas of your home – or where warm air is mixing with cooled air – it could be a problem with the ductwork. These issues can arise due to leaks or holes in the ductwork, poor insulation in attics or crawl spaces, or ducts that are simply blocked or dirty. Be sure to inspect your ductwork for visible damages or leaks, and make sure those leaks get sealed with sealant or the proper duct tape.

Another key factor in effectively cooling your home is proper airflow. If your vents closed or have something blocking them, that air will not circulate properly. This improper flow of air may lead to warm air building up inside of your home. This can be caused by the vents simply being blocked by furniture, curtains, or other objects obstructing their ability to release the air. This can also be caused by having deliberately closed vents in any unused rooms. This can be fixed by a simple walkthrough of your home to check and make sure all of the vents are unobstructed. Avoid closing too many vents, as it can cause a strain on the system.

Your AC unit may be blowing warm air for any number of reasons. If you feel like you’ve troubleshot the issue but the problems persist, it might be time to get a professional set of eyes on it. It might be as basic as a simple thermostat issue, but it might also be time for a new system. For more information, reach out to the experts at Go Green Heating & Air today.

As winter approaches, ensuring your heating system is ready to tackle the cold months is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency in your home. Denver and its surrounding areas are no strangers to harsh winter conditions, making it essential to prepare your heating system adequately.

At Go Green Heating and Air Conditioning, we understand the importance of a well-functioning heating system. This detailed guide will help you prepare your heating system for winter, answer common maintenance questions, and ensure your home stays warm and cozy.

1. Schedule a Professional Inspection

A key step in preparing your heating system for winter is scheduling a professional inspection. A certified HVAC technician can thoroughly examine your system to identify any potential issues that may have arisen in the summer months.

Regular inspections can catch problems early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your heating system operates efficiently throughout the winter.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters

Clean air filters are vital for the efficiency and longevity of your heating system. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder and potentially overheat. Depending on the type of filter your system uses, you should:

• Replace disposable filters every 1-3 months.
• Clean reusable filters every 1-3 months according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

During the summer, maintaining clean filters is equally important. Regularly check and clean or replace filters to ensure your system remains in good condition year-round.

3. Clean and Inspect Ductwork

Over time, dust, debris, and even mold can accumulate in your ductwork, reducing efficiency and air quality. Before winter, it’s essential to:

• Remove vents and vacuum inside the ducts.
• Wipe down vent covers and registers.
• Consider professional duct cleaning if there’s a significant buildup or mold presence.

Proper duct maintenance ensures that your heating system operates efficiently and delivers clean, warm air throughout your home when you need it most.

4. Test Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is the command center for your heating system. Ensure it’s working correctly by:

• Turning on your heating system and setting the thermostat to a few degrees higher than room temperature.
• Listening for the system to kick on and checking that warm air is flowing from the vents.
• Replacing the thermostat batteries if necessary.

If your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices offer better control over your heating system, allowing you to set schedules and reduce energy consumption.

5. Inspect and Clean the Furnace

The furnace is the heart of your heating system. Regular maintenance can extend its life and improve efficiency. Key steps include:

• Turning off the power to the furnace before performing any maintenance.
• Cleaning around the furnace and removing any debris or obstructions.
• Inspecting the burner flames; they should be blue. Yellow flames may indicate incomplete combustion, requiring professional attention.
• Vacuuming around the blower and motor.
• Checking the furnace’s belt for wear and tension, and replacing it if necessary.

6. Check and Seal Windows and Doors

Heat loss through windows and doors can significantly impact your heating system’s efficiency. To minimize heat loss:

• Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks.
• Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks.
• Consider using heavy curtains or thermal window treatments to reduce heat loss.

Sealing windows and doors helps your heating system maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the strain on the system and lowering energy bills.

7. Clear the Area Around Vents and Radiators

Ensure that furniture, curtains, and other objects are not blocking vents and radiators. Restricted airflow can reduce your system’s efficiency and make it harder to heat your home. Clear the area around these components to allow for proper circulation of warm air.

Common Maintenance Questions

As winter approaches, we often receive numerous inquiries about the maintenance and upkeep of heating systems. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we encounter.

How Do I Maintain My Heating System During the Summer?

Maintaining your heating system during the summer is essential for its longevity and efficiency. Here are some tips:

• Protect the System: Ensure that the area around your heating system is clean and free of debris.
• Run the System Occasionally: Turn on your heating system for a short period during the summer to ensure it’s still functioning properly.
• Regular Inspections: Even though you’re not using your heating system, schedule regular inspections to catch any potential issues early.
• Clean and Replace Filters: Continue to check and replace or clean filters during the summer months to prevent dust buildup.

How Do I Prevent Rust and Corrosion in My Heating System?

Rust and corrosion can significantly impact your heating system’s efficiency and lifespan. To prevent these issues:

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance to identify and address any signs of rust or corrosion early.
• Inspect for Leaks: Check for any leaks in the system and address them promptly.
• Protect Outdoor Units: If you have an outdoor heating unit, consider covering it during the off-season to protect it from the elements.
• Use a Dehumidifier: In humid environments, a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture levels, preventing rust and corrosion.

Should I Cover My Heating Vents During Summer?

Covering heating vents during the summer is generally not recommended. Here’s why:

• Airflow Restriction: Covering vents can restrict airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder and reducing efficiency.
• Moisture Buildup: Covered vents can trap moisture, potentially leading to mold growth.
• System Balance: Your HVAC system is designed to work with all vents open. Covering vents can disrupt the balance and pressure within the system.

Instead of covering vents, ensure they are clean and unobstructed to maintain proper airflow.

Can My Heating System Develop Mold During the Summer?

Yes, your heating system can develop mold during the summer, especially in humid conditions. To prevent mold growth:

• Run the System: Occasionally run your heating system to prevent stagnant air and moisture buildup.
• Address Leaks Promptly: Fix any leaks in your HVAC system immediately to prevent moisture accumulation.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean and inspect your ductwork and vents regularly to prevent mold spores from settling and growing.
• Maintain Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%.

Mold can cause health issues and reduce your system’s efficiency, so regular maintenance and monitoring are essential.

What are the risks of not using my heating system for an extended period?

The risks of not using your heating system for an extended period include the buildup of dust and debris, potential rust and corrosion, and the possibility of mechanical components seizing up. Additionally, mold can develop in the system if humidity levels are high. Regular maintenance and occasional use can help mitigate these risks.

Here are a few maintenance tips to mitigate the risks of not using your heating system for an extended period:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule regular professional inspections to identify and address any potential issues early.
• Clean Air Filters: Regularly clean or replace air filters to prevent dust buildup and maintain airflow.
• Run the System Occasionally: Turn on your heating system periodically to keep it in good working condition.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect for any signs of leaks and address them promptly to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Use a Dehumidifier: Keep humidity levels in check to prevent mold growth within the system.
• Keep the Area Clean: Ensure the area around the heating unit is free of debris and obstructions.

Conclusion

Preparing your heating system for winter is crucial for ensuring comfort and efficiency in your home. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing common maintenance questions, you can keep your system running smoothly throughout the cold months.

At Go Green Heating and Air Conditioning, we are committed to helping Denver and surrounding areas stay warm and comfortable. Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service with us today to ensure your Denver heating system is ready for winter.

Technology is great at making life easier, and advancements have made it so it can now be used to make you more comfortable. There are a lot of growing options for smart thermostats and HVAC controllers out there, with benefits and drawbacks to these systems. Every home has different needs and a different budget, so it’s important to make an educated decision before opting to go with one of these systems for your own home.

We all want lower energy bills while maintaining the same level of comfort in our homes, but smart thermostats can deliver a lot more information about the heating and cooling of your home. This can help you make adjustments to how you heat and cool your living area, but there are also questions of cost and compatibility to your space. Understanding how one of these smart systems can help with Denver air conditioning can go a long way in saving you money on your energy bills in the ever-changing Colorado climate.

Benefit: Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of smart thermostats or smart HVAC controllers is their ability to optimize your energy use. These devices enable you to set the temperature throughout different times throughout the day – whether you’re at home or not. This allows the system to understand your patterns and adjust the temperature settings accordingly. By optimizing when you run your HVAC system, it can reduce unnecessary energy consumption when you’re not at home.

Smart thermostats allow you to create customized heating and cooling schedules based on these routines, and some can also control the temperature in individual zones. This allows you to keep the temperatures lower in areas that don’t get used often, reducing that energy consumption even more. By programming all of these various situations, the system will make sure that you’re not wasting any energy when you’re away from home, but also when you’re not occupying a particular space.

Drawback: Higher Upfront Cost

While these systems might be able to save you some money in the long run due to the energy efficiency, one of the drawbacks is a higher upfront cost compared to more traditional thermostats. That makes this type of system an investment, and that investment will fluctuate depending on how advanced of a model you want to purchase and install in your home.

Basic models still have essential features that allow you to schedule heating and cooling based on your schedule, but some more advanced models are required if you need additional sensors, integration with your current system, or other energy-saving features like zoning. There is no denying the potential for savings on energy bills, but it may take a while to recoup the initial investment. That can be a turnoff for some people, depending on their current financial situation and budget. Check with your trusted HVAC professional to find out what system might be the best for your individual situation.

Benefit: Remote Operation

Smart thermostats also allow you to control your heating and cooling remotely through a smartphone app or website interface. This is a great feature for convenience, allowing you to adjust temperatures when you’re away from home. Not only does this allow you to get your heating and cooling to be on the same page as your busy schedule, but you can also adjust it on the fly. It’s perfect for those unexpected chilly Colorado days so you can return to a nice and cozy home.

In case of extreme weather conditions or other unexpected events, you can keep your home safe and comfortable, even if you aren’t present. If you’re away from home for an extended period of time, this also allows you to keep tabs on your HVAC system to ensure it’s working properly while you’re away. Curbing excessive energy consumption is much easier with the remote control, and it can be used to really focus in your schedule to optimize that important energy efficiency.

Drawback: Complexity

There are a lot of different things smart thermostats and HVAC controllers can do, particularly through the app on the smartphone or web. However, some of these things might seem complex to some users that are more comfortable dealing with more traditional thermostats. These systems can take some getting used to, and may need more attention while you’re dialing in the system to your individual preferences.

There are a multitude of features and settings with smart thermostats, and those can get overwhelming for those who prefer simplicity. In time, the smart thermostat won’t require as much attention – when it understands and works within your desired specifications – but there can be a learning curve right after its installed. There are a number of benefits to the advanced features and customizable options with smart HVAC controllers, but some may find them overwhelming. There will likely be some form of technical support to help with these questions, but it can still be frustrating for those that aren’t tech savvy.

Benefit: Programmable Schedules

While not everyone might be wild about setting up different schedules, these can be a great feature once you get them programmed to your specifications. Every family has different, busy schedules between all of its family members, and you can tailor your home’s comfort to your lifestyle. Lower the temperature when everyone is at work or school, and make it a bit more comfortable when most or all of the family is at home.

It’s already been mentioned how these programmable schedules can help with energy efficiency, but they can also be detailed right down to the days of the week. Once these schedules are set, you’ll be back to the “set it and forget” mode that you were used to with more traditional thermostats. The difference is that these schedules are more detailed, allowing you for optimal comfort without constantly tinkering with it every time someone seems chilly. Zero in the right temps for the right times of day, and everyone in the family should feel optimal comfort without wasting any energy.

Drawback: Must Have Internet Connectivity

Smart thermostats feature handy mobile applications and web interfaces to allow you to set the right comfort level for any time of day. However, those features rely on being connected to the internet. Without a stable internet connection, those apps won’t function properly, and that could cause an interruption in those remote capabilities until service is restored. This might seem like a marginal inconvenience, but it’s important to recognize in case there’s a loss in service for an extended period of time.

These types of thermostats can also be integrated with other smart home devices and systems, and lack of internet connectivity can break the communication between these devices. Most systems have protective measures in place, but because the system is connected to the internet, there is the chance of cybersecurity threats. Internet connectivity adds convenience and functionality to the whole system, but it’s important to understand that there are potential risks.

Benefit: Data Insights

Smart thermostats will also gather and store data on your energy usage. This can help you track patterns and potentially identify ways to even further improve your energy efficiency. These will tell you when you’re using the most energy and how much is being used when nobody’s home. Understanding these patterns can help you make more informed decisions about energy saving opportunities to take advantage of by altering your thermostat or schedules.

These data insights can also help smart thermostats identify when there might be abnormalities in your HVAC system’s performance. Many of these programs can provide alerts or notifications when something changes within the system. This can include excessive or abnormal runtime, uncommon temperature fluctuations, or even some equipment malfunctions. By identifying these problems early, the consumer might be able to address them before the issue escalates into costly repairs or system failures.

Drawback: Compatibility

Not all HVAC systems are compatible with smart thermostats. Older systems or those with types of proprietary protocols may not work with certain models. This may require additional equipment or professional installation. Another example of compatibility issues might be that smart system won’t work with a system that uses high voltage wiring. Because of the aforementioned internet connectivity, your home Wi-Fi network has to work within the smart thermostat’s system requirements, too.

Over time, the software for your smart thermostat will also require upgrades. There is a chance this may change the compatibility requirements from the manufacturer. Not all manufacturers are created equal, so it’s crucial to make sure you choose a smart thermostat from a reputable source that provides regular updates and support to address these compatibility issues. It’s always essential to check out the compatibility of a smart thermostat with your specific HVAC system before buying one.

The convenience and functionality of smart thermostats and HVAC controllers is unparalleled, and the technology is improving every day. There might be a learning curve to having a smart thermostat in your home, but there are a lot of benefits once it’s running based on your conditions. For more information on smart thermostats and how they work, reach out to the experts at Go Green Heating & Air Conditioning today.

Keeping a home at the most comfortable temperature can often be taken for granted. Everybody expects their air conditioning unit to continue working properly, and they go about their daily routines without so much as thinking about it – until something changes. When your home’s temperature gets noticeably warmer or cooler, that means something is likely amiss within your air conditioning system.

Whether it’s simply a minor issue or something more drastic, you want the issue resolved quickly so you can get back to living in comfort. It’s important to identify what’s causing the issue, but it’s just as important to let a professional HVAC technician diagnose any complex problems that require AC repair in Denver. Regular maintenance can help prevent a lot of these issues, but there are a number of things that can impact the efficiency of your system.

Clogged Air Filters

One of the biggest culprits for hurting the efficiency of your air conditioning system is the filter. When the air filter becomes dirty or clogged, airflow is restricted. That reduces the efficiency of the overall system. Regularly changing or cleaning the air filter is critical for optimal performance from your system. This should be the first thing you check when investigating your system’s efficiency, and inspecting this regularly will give insight into how often it should be replaced.

Dirty or Blocked Coils & Drains

As time passes, the coils on the evaporator and condenser units can accumulate dirt and other debris. This reduces their efficiency, meaning regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the best heat exchange. Also, if the condensate drain becomes clogged, it can lead to water buildup and impact the system’s ability to cool the air. Regular maintenance and inspections on both of these items can prevent both of these issues.

Electrical Problems

Faulty wiring or constantly tripping breakers can mess with the electrical system of the air conditioning unit, leading to inefficient cooling or other issues. Electrical issues at the thermostat can also cause it to malfunction, which can make the AC not cool your space adequately. During your regular inspections, the technician should be able to identify some of these problems, and electrical issues should always be addressed immediately.

Bad or Leaky Insulation

Poor insulation in your structure can cause the conditioned air to escape, impacting its efficiency. Leaks in the ductwork can create a similar problem. This loss of the cooled air will reduce the overall efficiency of your system. Not only does this cause issues with keeping your space at the right temperature, but it can also result in higher energy bills while your system works that much harder to cool the area.

Most of these issues can be curbed with regular maintenance from an HVAC professional, and some of these problems can just pop up from age and wear over time. Regular inspections will be less expensive in the long run, and keep your home at the comfy level you desire. For more information on how to keep your AC running optimally and efficiently, reach out to the experts at Go Green Heating & Air Conditioning today.