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How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner for My Home

Choosing the right air conditioner can help you save time, money, and energy costs. However, since there are a lot of options out there, it’s essential to be prepared. Find out how to choose the right Denver air conditioning with this quick air conditioner home guide.

Size Matters

Sizing factors vary from home to home, but did you know that choosing the wrong size of air conditioning unit decreases efficiency? Many homeowners and installers swear by the method of sizing based on square footage. This air conditioning sizing method doesn’t always provide the most reliable information, however. Many untrained air conditioning contractors who follow this sizing method end up installing the incorrect system for your home.

The Manual J sizing method calculates factors differently than other sizing methods by using precision. Everything from exterior surface areas, window quality, possible air leaks, and insulation values are calculated using the Manual J method. This method is the only one used at Go Green Denver Heating and Air Conditioning. Avoid over spending on utilities and repair costs with a company that calculates every factor, including size, when it comes to air conditioning installation.

Consider Energy

Many recent air conditioning models feature new and improved efficiency features. These new ratings are the result of technological advancements and are required to be listed by their manufacturers. Most units include an energy guide label that shows estimated operating costs, so this is a good thing to consider when looking into new units.

Considering energy not only helps in overall operating cost, but is more environmentally friendly with a more efficient and quieter unit. Each unit rating is dependent on the product’s SEER, seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Choosing an AC unit with a SEER of 20 or higher means that your unit is 60 percent more efficient than the older air conditioning models. Although the price tag may be higher for the installation and unit itself, energy savings in the long run will be much more than the predecessors.

Budgeting Factors

There are many things to include in your budgeting plan for a new air conditioner. Size and installation, as well as unit brands, determine initial costs. However, existing ductwork for heating and cooling systems could decrease the installation costs since the installer won’t have to start from scratch. The best way to determine the overall cost of your new air conditioning system is to call a professional. Ask any questions you can and be upfront about your needs and budget.

Although an initial “deal” on an air conditioning unit sounds nice, you may run into more long-term problems with the unit. Spending a little more from your budget on the correct installation and unit up front may protect your wallet in future. A professional at Go Green Heating and Air Conditioning can help you decide which unit is right for you and help calculate installation costs. Choosing the right AC unit can help lower energy bills and repair costs, so you’ll continue to save money in future.

Can I Repair My Air Conditioner Myself?

How many of us have undergone a somewhat questionable home improvement project, just to later regret that decision when the device is fully disassembled and you can’t make heads or tails of the project? Don’t worry, it’s happened to us all!

It’s just human nature to want to fix things with our own ability and willpower, even when it’s out of our realm of understanding. Sometimes we even get lucky!

Before you start taking apart your air conditioner, make sure it’s an issue you can reasonably fix with your own experience level first. If not, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, and calling for a Denver Air Conditioner Repair for bigger, complicated problems is the best way to find easy, quick, and affordable access to a solution.

Need To Know About AC Installations, Repairs, and Maintenance

Having a functional air conditioner unit is a must-have for just about any Denver homeowner. Trust us… we get it! It’s an important part of any functional home, but unfortunately, even our own amazing units can become faulty or damaged after long use or environmental changes.

If you find your air conditioner isn’t working as it should, it’s safe to do a little investigating if you feel confident with yourself. If you have any engineering background, you may even do a bit of tinkering to see if the solution isn’t easily obtained. Most of the time, you can troubleshoot your air conditioner unit right from home.

Calling us at Go Green Heating & Air Conditioning to fix your unit is the best option. We have many trained and highly skilled professionals with the necessary tools and know-how to fix your unit and repair any issues. If your unit is one that our company installed, you’re less likely to run into problems with the device. We properly size and fit all units and related accessories, which is the cause of most maintenance issues in other units.

Why You Should Call A Professional

As you may have guessed, we simply don’t recommend risking your safety and the integrity of your air conditioning unit to repair it yourself. We will always suggest to contact us, or one of the other Denver repair companies, to handle these problems for you. Here is why!

It’s Reliable

With an expert, you know the job will get done, and you know it will get done correctly the first time – not after a butchered attempt of your own. This is a valuable distinction to be made.

It’s Quick

Our professionals will be in and out, depending on the severity of the repair! We’ve dealt with many units and issues before, and we’re always prepared and suited up for business.

It’s Affordable

More often than not, it’s cheaper to just call us first. You may be making the damage worse, or breaking other working parts, which will skyrocket your bill with us later on. Letting us work on your unit will ensure only what is broken gets messed with, and you’re only paying for that repair. No other damages done in the process.

What Are The Different Types Of Air Conditioning?

Put simply, air conditioning is essential, especially in Denver over those hot months of Summer. When we think and talk about air conditioning, we all mean the same thing for the most part. A system that takes hot air and cools it to create a colder environment indoors. It’s a modern science we are all fairly familiar with and appreciate.

Did you realize that several types of air conditioning systems and unit exist? Each system works a little differently is best suited for specific situations. If it’s time to update your Denver air conditioning system, consider your options first to ensure you get the best fit for your needs!

4 Different Air Conditioning System Types

Do you know air conditioning system your home uses? If not, you’ll probably be able to guess where it fits based on this list. Consider the other options that are available, and contact us at Go Green Heating & Air Conditioning to get an estimate!

1. Central

Central air is the most common form of air conditioning for large homes or development projects. It has the ability to cool and manage several rooms at a time and keep air circulation flowing throughout the home instead of being confined to a specific spot. Cool air is traveled through supply and return ducts to effectively cool a whole house down, but these systems are very complex to install and run the highest costs.

2. Window Units

Another very common option we see in homes is the window unit. This is often a much more affordable option, and you can have several of these units in your home. It attaches with your window to release hot air outside, while continuing to cool inside your home. The natural downside to these units is they feature less circulation throughout the home, and take up the space of a window to reduce visibility and light.

3. Portable Units

You don’t see these systems as much compared to the first two examples, but it’s very similar to the window unit. It’s a small system with the same power as a standard window unit but is designed to sit on the floor and be easily moved. This portable design makes for a louder motor and evaporator fan, and you’ll need to be close enough to the window to attach the exhaust hose to lead outside. Ideally, these are used in small spaces where window units are not permitted, such as a work environment.

4. Ductless Systems

Many older apartments or homes utilize a split duct system for cooling. Instead of air conditioning units and obvious ducts, vents throughout the home can be controlled separately to change the cooling zones within each room. This option, though seen the least out of the 4, is one of the most affordable when it comes to conserving energy since you will only cool the rooms as needed. Unfortunately, initial cost and installation is pretty pricey due to the complicated nature of this system.

Do’s and Don’ts of Furnace Repair

Winter is coming! We are all rushing to prepare for snow, freezing temperatures, holidays, frozen pipes, and ensuring our heat is working properly. As the weather changes, so do our priorities, and it’s probably time for you to kick on the heat inside and bring out the fuzzy blankets. If you go to turn the thermostat to warm, and realize your furnace is having issues, there is a very important list of do’s or don’ts to keep in mind to help prevent further damage to your HVAC system.

Furnace Repairs: What You Need To Know

Trying to repair a damaged or faulty furnace on your own is dangerous. Not only to your own health and safety, but you run the risk of making the problem worse, and needing a full furnace replacement instead of what could have been a simple repair. Here are some common, basic mistakes that are made during at-home inspections or repairs on your furnace.

The Do’s

Schedule An HVAC Checkup

Furnace repair in Denver is not an uncommon service that is needed. The first thing you should always do when your furnace begins acting up is to call and schedule an appointment so a professional can come and complete an inspection and handle the repairs properly.

Check Your Insulation & Detectors

If all seems to be working with your furnace but you still notice your home being much colder than it should be, it’s time to look a little closer at what the culprit may be. Are your windows fully closed and not leaking any valuable warmth? Is the attic insulated? Is there any cracks or loose bricks in your chimney? Any one of these problems could be the reason for your drafty home, not the furnace.

It’s also important to check your carbon monoxide detector regularly when you have your furnace running, especially in the first few days after turning it on.

Clean Your Air Filter

Always clean the air filters on your HVAC systems! This should be a regular habit, or you risk causing major damage to your furnace. Check your air filter before turning it on for the first time each year, and also ensure it’s still clean if there are any problems that arise.

The Don’ts

Rely On Space Heaters

If your furnace isn’t working as well as it should be, don’t ignore the problem and just turn on some space heaters. Not only is this a very expensive solution for your energy bill, you risk releasing harmful chemicals into the air or starting a fire. It’s best to get your furnace checked and repaired as quickly as possible and keep the additional heat sources to a minimum.

Use Plastic Or Other Flammables

No matter what you’re trying to do when repairing your furnace, or looking for the source of a problem, you should never introduce flammable materials to the elements. This includes wrapping anything in plastic or wool, or even getting too close with gloves that aren’t made for fire-resistance.

Why Your HVAC System Needs Regular Checks

The HVAC system in your home (AKA the way you heat or cool your house) is an important part of healthy living, but it may take a little bit more maintenance than you realize. For many renters-turned-homeowners, it’s easy to miss out on the little routine maintenance jobs that are now required, since your landlord used to cover these check-ups for you. If you haven’t yet had your HVAC system checked, it’s time to get in the habit of getting routine checks done on it.

5 Reasons Your HVAC Needs A Check-Up

AC repairs in Denver are usually more than happy to be the one to come and check out your equipment and ensure your HVAC system is running smoothly. Usually, the installation company will handle this for you, but if you don’t yet have someone coming out regularly for this, here are some reasons why it’s smart to start.

1. Lifetime Longevity

The longer your HVAC system is in working order, the less dough you’ll have to shell out later to get it replaced or repaired. Even the smallest issues like a loose screw or two can cause major damage without being discovered quickly enough, so it’s best not to risk it by leaving it unchecked for too long.

2. Energy Efficiency

We’re all becoming more aware of our carbon footprint on this Earth, and with new regulations for greener appliances and home aspects like windows and plumbing designed for energy efficiency, it’s only smart this applies to our HVAC system, too. A poorly working HVAC system is using more resources, costing you more on your energy bill, and doing less good for the environment.

3. General Maintenance

You probably weren’t taught how to fix a HVAC system in High School, right? It can be hard to tell if something is going wrong with your system, so having a routine check done by an expert who deals with them daily is the best way to keep it working great. The general maintenance that is performed may include clearing out blogs, fixing leaks, or cleaning the fans. If you really want to be able to do this on your own, just ask for them to show you how some of the smaller fixes are done.

4. Improved Air Quality

Face it – whatever your HVAC system is putting into the home, you’re breathing. You don’t want anything affecting the quality of this air that is literally giving you life, right? A routine check can ensure that nothing can hurt you, and keep your air quality where it should be.

5. Saves You Money

Getting routine checks, and all of the benefits these maintenance stops do for you, actually can save you lots of money in the long run. You’ll have cheaper energy bills, spend less to heat and cool your home, deal with less major damages, and you won’t need a replacement for your HVAC system for a long time.  It’s small amounts here and there, but they really add up quick, and that’s what being a homeowner is all about.