Does Your Air Conditioner Freeze Up In The Summer? Here Is Why!

The steadily rising temperatures are proof that Vancouver is about to come face to face with some of the hottest days of the year. Although the hot season lasts barely three months in Vancouver, the heat in certain months become somewhat uncomfortable for its residents. For people who are usually accustomed to mild temperatures year-round, July is the most challenging time of the year.

When thermometer readings shoot up to about 23°C in July, Vancouver residents are often left breathless. At such times, their only source of solace, comfort, and contentment is a properly functioning air conditioner.

The feeling of gradually sipping a fruit shake in the comfort of a perfectly cooled room while watching the birds outside excitedly chirp and jump from tree to tree is incomparable. As enjoyable as it sounds, the usual AC hiccups and sudden pauses often ruin this summertime vibe. How can you enjoy watching the birds when you feel like you are melting in your chair?

As Vancouver’s most seasoned HVAC contractors, we understand your discomfort and feel your pain better than anyone else. As a result, we shall devote our attention today to one of the most common yet bizarre occurrences in summer – the freezing up of an AC. Yes, as strange as it sounds, an air conditioner can freeze up in the summer. For those who believe this phenomenon is bizarre, you might be surprised to learn that this is actually a common problem in almost every Canadian household.

For the purpose of this blog post, we shall explore the reasons behind why your AC may freeze up in summer and how you can prevent or correct the issue.

Thermostat Settings

Never let the heat overwhelm you and override your better judgment. When the temperatures shoot up, do not be in a hurry to set your thermostat at the lowest temperature and then forget about it. Instead, take the time to let your body adapt to the new temperature and then slightly change your thermostat settings.

Leaving your thermostat at a very low temperature setting can result in the freezing of your ACs coils. Thus, only place your thermostat at a low level when there is a heat wave, or the humidity is unbearably high.

Refrigerant Leakage

Refrigerant leaks are one of the biggest AC problems in summer. These usually pave the way for several other costly issues. A refrigerant is an expensive chemical element often found in appliances like ACs and refrigerators and is usually very difficult to replace.

Read Also: What Is A Refrigerant Leak And How Can I Fix It?

A refrigerant leak is often the primary culprit behind an inefficient and poorly-performing air conditioner. This leakage often causes the AC to lose its strength and pressure, which results in the nearby water vapour solidifying into ice. In order to avoid a chain of costly repairs and replacements, consider requesting reliable Air conditioning repair services as soon as you suspect a refrigerant leak.

Faulty Fan

The best way to identify a faulty or malfunctioning blower fan is to be alert to any strange rattling noises. Similarly, a slower propelling or no movement at all clearly signifies a damaged blower fan. In turn, this faulty fan restricts proper air flow which results in condensation and ultimately the freezing up of an AC. If your blower fan is damaged, get it fixed immediately.

Damaged Ductwork

Damaged ductwork also results in poor airflow, which eventually translates into a frozen AC. As apparent from the discussion thus far, no AC issue occurs independently. Oftentimes, one issue invites a chain of others. We understand that it is difficult for an average homeowner with limited technical knowledge to watch out for all these issues.

In our opinion, the best solution at your disposal is to request regular air conditioner maintenance and inspections to detect and eradicate these issues in their initial phases.

Read Also: Benefits Of Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance

Blocked Air Filters

From the discussion, you must have noticed that poor airflow is often the main culprit behind a frozen AC. Clogged or dirty filters also result in an inadequate air flow which causes the water around the AC coils to freeze. In order to avoid this, you must clean your filters regularly and replace them every 90 days to ensure optimum performance.

Read Also: Why Should You Keep Your HVAC Filters Clean?

Loose Or Blocked Drainage Lines

Filters are not the only components that undergo a blockage due to dirt buildup. Drainage lines face a similar issue. When this happens, the dirt disrupts the water flow, which results in the overflow of the drip tray due to excess water. The overflowing water then freezes when it comes into contact with the cold coils. A similar situation occurs when the condensate drainage lines have a leakage.

About Pro West Heating And Air

We are a Vancouver-based Heating & Air Conditioning company. Our expertise lies in the repair, installation, and maintenance of air conditioning, heating, hydronic, and humidifier systems. Learn more about Pro West Heating & Air.

Contact us today for the best services.

Big Mistakes You’re Making With Your Air Conditioner

All-time high temperatures are breaking records due to global warming. An upward trend is literal and figurative in the electricity bills that come after using air conditioners non-stop in an attempt to kill this heat. However, knowingly or unknowingly you are doing things that come as mistakes and deteriorate the effectiveness and efficiency of your air conditioner.

Also Read: The Biggest Air Conditioning Myths And The Truth Behind Them

The following blog explains some common mistakes that can hurt your air conditioner and some simple adjustments that can make it easy for your lungs and pocket too.

You Aren’t Changing Or Cleaning Your AC Filters

The filters in your AC trap all the dust that comes in with the hot air it is extracting from the interior of your home. The dust trapped in the filters can block the air exchange thus hindering the effectiveness of your system.

Therefore, the biggest mistake you can commit is not changing your AC filters regularly. The bare minimum you can do if not change then at least wash the filters once a month. It is a recommended practice by all air conditioner maintenance experts to change your air filters at least twice a year. This small action will help to keep your AC functional for a longer period of time.

You Aren’t Having Your System Serviced Annually

You can be doing everything right with your AC or split unit, but still, it will start losing its efficiency over time. It is natural, however, you can slow down the process by getting your unit serviced annually. The servicing involves thorough cleaning and making sure that the level of refrigerant gas in the air conditioner is up to the optimum level. So, call a quality HVAC contractor who holds expertise in installing, repairing, and maintenance of all HVAC system appliances.

You Don’t Have A Programmable Thermostat

You are surely a superhero if you don’t forget to program the thermostat every time you leave the house. However, if you are like the rest of us then a smart and programmable thermostat can save hundreds of dollars for you annually. It will automatically adjust the temperature for those times of the day when you are at work or away from home.

Moreover, having a mobile-controlled smart thermostat can give you more control over the temperature of your home with greater convenience.

You Are Setting Your Thermostat Too Low

Research shows that the human body can adapt to temperatures really quickly, almost within a week or two. So, if you lower the settings of your air conditioner by one degree you can lower your bill by 3%. Not to mention the immense environmental benefits you’ll get by using your air conditioner less.

Hence, it is unnecessary to create a winter-like situation in your home by overworking your cooling system. Doing so will not only increase your electricity bill but also lower the working life of your air conditioning system.

You Are Not Taking Full Advantage Of Fans

Any fan, especially a ceiling fan can immensely help in circulating the cool air inside your home. Switching them on will take off some of the burden from your air conditioner. Here is a tip: make sure that your fans are moving counterclockwise in the summer, this will increase the airflow and circulation.

You Are Cooling Empty Rooms

In the case of a central cooling system, it is possible that the vents of your AC open in every room of your house. This means that you are cooling a lot of real estate that may not be in use on a daily basis. Cooling empty rooms are nothing but just a waste of energy and power for your air conditioner. By cooling empty rooms you are overworking your AC unit causing it to lose its effectiveness and wear out earlier.

About Pro West Heating And Air Conditioning

Pro-West Heating & Air Conditioning provides unmatched HVAC services in Vancouver. We have a team of trained HVAC contractors that can help you with your heating and cooling system repair, installation, and maintenance. We ensure 24/7 availability. Learn more about PRO WEST and our elite services. Contact us now!

How Often Should I Get My Air Conditioner Serviced?

Air conditioner maintenance is crucial to keep it working accurately and provide energy-efficient services. Also, regular air conditioner service reduces the risk of damage to its machinery. Additionally, timely service of every air conditioner is important even the biggest AC units can get damaged if not serviced at the right time.

Generally speaking, an air conditioner requires a good service routine, you should get your air conditioner serviced after every 6 months. More appropriately, after and before the summer season. As a newly serviced air conditioner will give better performance during the summer season.

Moreover, AC servicing ensures that the air conditioner machinery is in good condition and the air conditioner is clean from the inside.

Besides that, hiring an HVAC contractor for the maintenance and service of your air conditioner can help you get reliable maintenance with professional techniques. Additionally, a professional technician can tell you if there are any defects in your AC or if any of its parts need repairing.

However, you can also do air conditioner service on your own but, you will not be able to get the desired results and efficient performance. As a result, your effort and time will be wasted. For this reason, it is recommended to have permanent contact with a professional service technician who can regularly service your air conditioner.

Benefits Of Getting Services From An Air Conditioner Maintenance Provider

Having a contract with a certified air conditioning service provider can benefit you in many ways. Firstly, you will get the finest air conditioning services from certified technicians which will minimize the chances of any damage.

Also Read: Top Benefits Of Hiring A Professional AC Repair Company

Moreover, during peak service season, everyone tries to get their air conditioner serviced before the summer season begins. Therefore service providers give priority to their regular customers, due to which you can get your air conditioner serviced easily. In fact, you can get AC services from the senior technicians of your maintenance provider.

In addition to the priority, the service providers can give you discounts so that you can get professional services at low rates.

After How long Should I Get Professional Service?

After understanding the benefits of following a maintenance routine for your air conditioner let’s discuss how often you should get the system serviced. The answer is it depends on various factors:

Usage

The air conditions which are used frequently require more maintenance. The reason is the units which are used more often get polluted due to air pollution. Hence these air conditioners require services to clean their parts and replace or clean their filters.

Henceforth, an air conditioner that is used for at least 12 hours a day should be serviced after every three to four months.

Atmosphere

If you live in a good atmosphere with low air pollution then your air conditioner can be serviced after six months. Whereas, if you live in a polluted area with lots of air pollution then your air conditioner will require early service due to pollution and its filters being filled with impurities and dust particles.

Season

During the winter season, air conditioners do not require maintenance as they are not operational. Contrary to this in the summer season air conditioners are operational for almost 24 hours a day and therefore require more maintenance to work efficiently.

Moreover, because of high usage, you might even need air conditioner service in the middle of the summer season.

Steps Involved In Air Conditioner Service

In air conditioner service, the basic purpose is to clean the unit from the inside and outside. To do so, the air conditioner is unlocked, its inside parts are cleaned with a cloth, and its filters are removed and cleaned from the dust and debris stuck in them. Additionally, a performance check is made after closing the air conditioner panel. In order to check its performance, the AC is tested on the lowest temperature which you can set on a hot day.

About Pro West heating & Air Conditioning

We at Pro West heating & Air Conditioning offer reliable HVAC services in Vancouver. Our services include installation, maintenance and repairing of HVAC systems. Our professionals provide expert services according to your requirements. To get more information about our services please contact us today.

Tips To Use Your AC Efficiently In The Summer

Air conditioners are considered an integral part of every household, especially in the summer. They are important not only for your household but also for your workplaces and industrial or commercial stores. Living indoors without a properly working AC in summer can be quite hard and can get a little uncomfortable. In such circumstances, turning on your AC and using it continuously 24 hours a day becomes necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.

However, many people worry about paying hefty electricity bills. Therefore, they look for ways in which they can share their AC efficiently and reduce their electricity bills. So how can you operate your air conditioning units effectively, and is there any way of economically using an air conditioner? The answer is that it is possible to operate your air conditioning systems to limit electricity consumption. Let’s explore some ways you can use your AC efficiently this summer.

Set The Right Temperature

One of the effective ways to reduce your electricity bills by using your air conditioner and increase its efficiency is to set the right temperature levels. Various studies have shown that about 6% of electricity is saved for every degree we raise the temperature.

Therefore, as you keep lowering your AC’s temperature, its compressor has to work for a longer time, thereby shooting up your electricity bill. Set your air conditioner from about 27 °C up to 29 °C. This way, you can reduce the frequent restarts, especially if your air conditioning unit has DC inverter technology. It will consume less power during the operation, and a constant temperature will be maintained in your room.

Turn On Sleep Mode

Another option that many air conditioners offer is the sleep mode. In this mode, air conditioners can decrease the level of the indoor temperature up to the desired level and go into standby mode when the temperature is achieved. Therefore, you can feel the desired amount of coolness in your room without spending extra money and getting sick because of the continuous running of your air conditioners at night.

Keep Windows And Doors Closed

One mistake many people make is that they don’t shut their doors and windows properly and seal them. As a result, much of the cool air is wasted. Therefore, you must ensure that all your windows are sealed tightly and pull the curtains so that the sun’s heat doesn’t enter your room. Also, turn off heavy devices such as TV’s and computers as they generate a lot of heat and make your AC work harder.

In addition to this, avoid using ovens and projectors during the summer, as heat can affect your AC’s performance.

Select The Right Air Conditioning Unit

If you are about to buy an air conditioning unit and are thinking of how to use it efficiently, a key requirement is to choose the right kind of air conditioning unit. Choose the correct size of air conditioning unit and the right inverter technology to consume less power. Choosing a smaller unit that doesn’t suit your space will end up costing you more on power consumption due to its reduced performance.

Get Help From Air Conditioning Services

If you think something is wrong with your AC and it requires servicing and cleaning, hire an air conditioning service company to ensure that the cool air reaches your room. They will repair and replace any dirty filters, which can lower the AC’s energy consumption.

Conclusion

Installing the correct AC and maintaining it is key to its effective performance all year. Moreover, some helpful tips above can help you reduce your electricity bills and use your AC efficiently.

About Pro-West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West’s team of experts is ensured to provide high-quality services to guarantee customer satisfaction, which are just two of our fundamental priorities.

Our highly qualified technicians tackle everything — from repairing minor cooling problems in your HVAC system to cleaning huge mounds of dirt in your air ducts to anything in between. Moreover, our experienced technicians and sales staff ensure you have the right system for your needs. We make sure that your AC runs efficiently so that you don’t have to worry about your bills. Contact us for further information.

How To Fix A Clogged AC Drain Line

In these extreme weather conditions, dealing with a broken AC unit can be a total nuisance. Although some AC problems are inevitable, still there are some that can be avoided with proper maintenance.

The most common problems with air conditioners that you might have experienced are inefficient cooling or your unit not turning on at all. In order to fix such issues, you will need to get air conditioner repair services from certified HVAC contractors.

Also Read: Top Benefits Of Hiring A Professional AC Repair Company

However, sometimes the reason behind your AC’s malfunction can be as basic as having a clogged AC drain line. Clogged AC drain lines may sound unthreatening, but if not dealt with timely, this problem can cause severe damage to your AC unit and your house.

So it is important to know why your AC drain line gets clogged and what you can do to get rid of these clogs. In this blog post, we will outline the top ways that will help you fix clogged AC drain lines.

What Is An AC Drain Line?

Air conditioners remove humidity and heat from the air of your home. The moisture in the air is collected on the metal coils of your AC unit, and this moisture then drips in the form of water droplets into the drain pan from the metal coils.

Then through a PVC pipe that is called an AC condensate line or drain line, this water is taken out of the house. Evidently, the air conditioner drain line is the main source of expelling excess moisture from your home.

How Does The AC Drain Line Get Clogged?

Before moving on to the details of repairing clogged AC drain lines, it’s important to talk about the reasons an AC drain line gets clogged.

Since the air conditioner drain line stays moist, it encourages mould and algae growth and if these are allowed to fester for long periods of time, they can eventually cause a blockage.

The best way to keep your AC drain line in pristine condition is by getting it maintained by certified HVAC companies. These certified companies have trained air conditioners contractors who will clean up any clogs in the drain line of your AC unit efficiently.

Common Signs Of Clogged AC Drain Lines

Here are some common signs that your AC drain line is clogged:

Water Damage Near The AC Unit

When your air conditioner drain line is clogged, it will cause your drain line to fill up, and the water sitting in your drain pan will eventually overflow and trickle down the walls.

So if you spot any water damage near your AC, it is a clear indication that there is a clog in your AC drain pipe.

AC Unit Not Cooling Properly

If your air conditioner is not working properly, it is a sign that your AC unit drain pipe is clogged. The cooling efficiency of your AC significantly drops when the drain line is clogged. This happens because your air conditioner will have to work harder than usual to cool a space, and it will also increase your energy bills.

How To Fix A Clogged AC Drain Line

However, it is best to call a certified HVAC contractor and request air conditioner maintenance services and get your clogged AC drain line fixed. Here are some steps you can take to fix a clogged AC drain line if reaching out to a contractor is difficult for you for some reason:

Clean The Drain Pan

When your AC drain line is clogged, the drain pan will be filled with water. Thus, you can use towels to carefully soak up this accumulated water. After soaking up the water, you can clean the drain pan with soap and water. This way, you will be able to clear the algae and mould from your drain pan.

Remove Mould From The Drain Pipe

Once you have cleaned the drain pan, it’s time to clean the drain line of your AC unit. First, you will need to loosen the drain pipe and wash it with water to clear the clogged drain. Once the drain is clog-free, tighten it back on to the AC unit.

However, it is still better to hire a professional HVAC contractor to diligently clean your AC clogged drain pipe. Since they are trained professionals, they will fix your clogged AC drain line in no time.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West understands that installing an AC is a major investment and you can’t afford such costs again and again. For this reason, we would like to emphasize the importance of regular maintenance. Contact us for a range of heating and cooling services.

The Biggest Air Conditioning Myths And The Truth Behind Them

Summer is currently at its peak, and so is air conditioning-related stress and frustration. At this time of the year, we receive the largest number of AC-related queries from irritated and fed-up customers. While some are agitated by their continuously deteriorating home air quality, others seem worried about their suddenly rising energy bills. Most of the time, we hear them place the whole blame upon their air conditioners. However, in many cases, your air conditioner is utterly innocent, and the reason behind the discomfort is something else. All we are saying is that do not be too hasty in declaring your air conditioner guilty of any discomfort or rising bills. You should give it the benefit of the doubt and find the real culprit. Surprisingly, the aforementioned public mindset is merely a hint of the number of misconceptions people have regarding air conditioning. As professional HVAC contractors, we advise people to do their research before believing in any AC-related myths. In truth, homeowners who easily fall for such fallacies stand a higher risk of falling into the hands of the wrong people and losing their money to treacherous HVAC contractors. Indeed, we can not rid the world of these shadowy businesses and baseless misconceptions. Still, we can surely play a role in educating you regarding the issues and their potential dangers. Over our years of service in Vancouver, numerous clients have shared their concerns and tales about how their investments in their ACs went down the drain as a result of believing in unsubstantiated myths. In order to save our clients from such miseries in the future, this blog post will discuss the truth behind some of the most common air conditioner myths and how they cost you money.

Air Conditioner Repair And Maintenance Services Are A Waste Of Money

Many people believe that HVAC companies often overemphasize the importance of timely air conditioning repair and maintenance services. To be honest, whether you request air conditioning repair or maintenance services is ultimately your decision. No contractor has the right to force you. However, we have a responsibility to guide you to the right path. If you think of it in a straight way, our reasoning will surely make sense and help you save money. If you disregard a minor AC problem today, you will only incur increased repair or replacement costs in the future. In the end, who bears the burden? No one but you.

A Ceiling Fan Cools The Air

This is perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions people have. It does not directly cost you money, but the intention behind it might be doing so. A ceiling fan is harmless and not really a waste of money. This machine swirls the air around it which makes it come in contact with your skin at a fast speed, thereby causing seat evaporation. This evaporation is what makes you feel cooler. In truth, the room’s temperature remains the same. Only an air conditioner and similar appliances have the ability to change a room’s temperature. Visit an extremely hot country and turn on the ceiling fan. Instead of feeling cooler, you will encounter a discomforting sensation as the hot air quickly rushes across your skin. Conclusively, if you install a ceiling fan with the hopes that it will aid your AC in providing better cooling, then you are wasting your money.

Bigger Is Better

This misconception relates to the false beliefs regarding an AC unit’s size. Most people believe that a bigger AC unit will provide better cooling. In reality, the latter is an utter waste of money. An AC’s efficiency is dependent on its quality and the area it needs to cool. Installing a bigger AC for a small area when a smaller unit could do the job with the same efficiency is not a wise decision.

Outdoor Units Can Be Placed Anywhere

Outdoor units are perhaps the most neglected part of an air conditioner. Despite being the backbone and the driving force behind the whole cooling system, they do not receive the necessary care. Most people believe it is okay to place outdoor units anywhere. However, unregulated exposure to harsh elements like extreme sunlight, heat, and rain decrease its lifespan faster than you can imagine. Thus, you must place it in a shady area with the least exposure to strong winds.

Repairs Do Not Mandate Hiring A Professional HVAC Contractor

While many people acknowledge the need for prompt repairs, they disregard the importance of hiring a professional HVAC contractor for the job. It is wrong for you to assume that an average electrician will be able to handle the problem as diligently as an HVAC expert. Read Also: Top Benefits Of Hiring A Professional AC Repair Company An electrician may find a temporary solution to a problem but they will not be able to understand the deep-rooted cause of the problem. Thus, the problem will persist. Therefore, only a professional HVAC contractor will know how to eradicate the problem from the root and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

About Pro West Heating & Air

From complete HVAC installations to minor component repairs and replacements, there isn’t a part of an HVAC that we are not well-versed in. Learn more about Pro West Heating & Air and our top-tier services. Need emergency AC repair or replacements? Contact us now.

Top Benefits Of Hiring A Professional AC Repair Company

Air conditioners have become a basic necessity with summers’ ever-increasing scorching heat. They are the only source of comfort when you get back home after a long tiring day and want to have a peaceful place to enjoy its cooling. However, as air conditioners are used for a long time and for an extended period of time, they tend to sustain a significant amount of wear and tear.

As a result, their performance is often compromised due to the wear and tear or any indoor or outdoor unit problem. As a homeowner, it might be difficult for you to repair your AC on your own due to a lack of knowledge, tools, and skills.

Hiring a reliable HVAC company for AC repair is one of the best decisions you can make to improve the longevity of your AC system. This blog post highlights the top benefits of hiring a professional AC repair company.

They Have The Necessary Experience

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional AC repair company is that they have the necessary experience for it. The structure of an AC indoor unit or outdoor unit is quite complex, without the necessary repair experience, you can lead yourself to more problems down the road. A professional HVAC company has the required experts who will be able to solve your problem much more quickly and efficiently, so your AC won’t create the same problems again.

These Companies Are Insured And Licenced

Hiring an insured and licensed company will not hold you responsible for any damage or something that goes wrong during the AC repair process. Therefore, it is necessary to hire a licensed one and ensure that the AC repair contractor has passed a series of tests to ensure everything goes fine.

They are familiar with the ins and outs of the AC repair process. On the other hand, if you hire a company without any insurance or the necessary licenses, they might not cover any damages if something goes wrong during the repair or fixing process.

They Can Also Repair Unnoticed Parts

There might be some parts that are visibility damaged, and you think that only those parts need repairs and treatment. However, a professional company knows what gets affected and which parts need repair that might not be visibly damaged. In such cases, pros can find the hidden problems with your AC system that might be costing you more money and not giving you enough cool air.

They Can Handle Emergencies

A professional AC repair company knows how to handle emergencies promptly. It sometimes happens that problems can occur at inconvenient times, for example, during the summer, and you might want to fix your AC as soon as possible. You must hire a company that knows how to handle emergencies instantly and can help you with AC repair services in such situations.

They Have The Right Equipment

A professional AC repair company has the right set of tools and equipment to perform the job. They are familiar with the mechanical structure of the AC and know which part to disassemble and how. Having the right set of tools is important; otherwise, the parts might get damaged during the repair process.

Final Words

Apart from the benefits mentioned above, a professional AC repair company can clean your AC unit as well as work on it to achieve its peak efficiency. They fix those parts that might cost you money and repair any hidden damaged parts. Moreover, they can also offer you warranties and guarantees on your repairs for at least 30 days after the service has been rendered.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

PRO WEST’s experts mean ensuring a quality job and customer satisfaction, which are just two of our fundamental priorities.

Our highly qualified technicians tackle everything — from repairing minor cooling problems in your HVAC system to cleaning huge mounds of dirt in your air ducts to anything in between. Moreover, our experienced technicians and sales staff ensure you have the right system for your needs.

If you need any type of HVAC services in Vancouver and the lower mainland, contact us today for personalized service.

Guide To Installing An AC In The Kitchen

Cooking is an amazing art, and many people enjoy this hobby. It is quite fun for people who have a habit of eating homemade meals and cannot rely on restaurant foods. Cooking is all fun and games until summer hits, and your kitchen is full of heat. Then only a professional chef or a real passionate cook can stand in the kitchen heat and make meals for others. However, it can become quite difficult to be in the kitchen without AC in summer. The temperature going between 40-50 degrees Celsius can make it quite difficult for you to bear the summer heat and stoves. Hence, put an air conditioner in your home kitchen. It is not flammable under normal conditions, and it is safe to use in the kitchen. But many people are quite suspicious about installing an AC in their kitchen and keep on using their hand held fans or similar items. If you are one of them, this blog post might help you. Here we mention what you need to know about installing an AC in the kitchen.

Can You Install An Air Conditioner In The Kitchen?

Many people are quite confused about whether to install an air conditioner in their kitchen or not. However, considering all the safety measures and steps, installing AC in the kitchen is okay. Also, many people have central air conditioners in their homes, which usually work in all house rooms. However, it might not be ideal for the kitchen because it will suck smoky particles from the kitchen and distribute them in all the corners of your house. But if you install a separate AC for your kitchen and keep it separate from the rest of the area of your house, the oily particles will not be distributed to the other parts of your home.

How To Install An Air Conditioner In The Kitchen

Installing an air conditioner in the kitchen requires you to ensure that all safety measures are followed. Moreover, it should provide you with the necessary cooling and not disturb your cooking. Therefore, apart from hiring a professional heating and cooling company, you also need to ensure that the air conditioner doesn’t blow directly onto the gas stove. Otherwise, it will disturb the heating efficiency of the stove, and you will cook very slowly. So whether you are using a gas stove or an electric stove, keeping the cooling direction on the opposite side is necessary so that the heat is not disturbed. Also, avoid putting air-conditioners near the cast because the oily steam will stay around your kitchen cabinet, basin, and countertop. As a result, the air conditioner will suck in more steam produced from your cooking, which is oily and hot. Moreover, you should try to avoid putting appliances under the air conditioner. If hot appliances are put near your air conditioner, they will burn your conditioner over time.

How To Maintain Your Air Conditioner In The Kitchen

Taking care of your air conditioner in the kitchen is necessary to make sure it can last a long time. It means you must clean your air conditioner with some commercial cleaner. Also, oil and food steam can form a layer on the air conditioner’s body, which you need to wipe off regularly with a towel. The best thing you can do to maintain your air conditioner and keep it working for years is to keep it on the opposite side of the heat.

Hire A Professional Heating And Cooling Expert

One wise decision you can make when looking to install an air conditioner in your kitchen is to hire a professional heating and cooling company to install the air conditioner. Such professionals are familiar with the rules and safety measures required to install a conditioner in a kitchen.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Install your AC professionally with us. Employing PRO WEST’s experts means ensuring a quality job and customer satisfaction, which are just two of our fundamental priorities. If you need any HVAC services in Vancouver and the lower mainland, contact us today for personalized service. Our professionals are ready to serve you and make your living more comfortable.

Top Causes Of Rust On Air Conditioners & How You Can Prevent It

The air conditioner of your house is subjected to a lot of wear and tear over the course of its life. Though modern and high-tech units are highly durable and are designed to withstand harsh climatic conditions, they still require regular maintenance for effective functioning.

If you don’t take care of your air conditioning unit then lack of maintenance and high moisture content will lead to issues such as rusting.

A rusty air conditioner not only looks terrible but also affects its performance and functionality.

Hence you must hire a certified HVAC contractor and get professional air conditioning maintenance services. These maintenance services will keep your air conditioning unit in prime functioning condition.

Also Read: Causes Of Indoor AC Unit Water Leaks

A rusty HVAC will take longer to heat or cool your home and thus will result in high electricity bills. Moreover, if the rust is not removed timely it will spread and deteriorate the other AC components as well and all of this will lead to costly repair or even premature failure.

In this blog post, we will outline the top causes of rust on air conditioners and will also list some ways that will help you prevent your air conditioning unit from rusting.

Top Causes Of Rust On An Air Conditioning Unit

Rust forms on anything when the metal such as iron or steel are exposed to water and oxygen for a certain amount of time. Once the rust starts to form it quickly spreads and causes damage to the metal surface.

Some AC components that are likely to be affected by rust are its ductwork, air filters, drain pan, fan blades, refrigerant lines and compressors.

Here are some of the top causes that lead to rust on an AC:

Excessive Moisture

Moisture is the biggest culprit of rust on air conditioners, which mostly comes from the rain, humid air and condensation.

The outdoor unit of your air conditioner deals with moisture on a daily basis. For example, when the HVAC system draws warm air from your home to be cooled the moisture from the air condenses on the evaporator coils and then drips on the drain pan.

This form of moisture is part of the daily functioning of your AC and is not harmful, however, the problem develops when an excessive amount of moisture stays in contact with your AC components for a longer period of time. This happens when the drain pan of your air conditioner is clogged.

If you live in a coastal area salty humid air will also lead to rusty conditions for your air conditioner outdoor unit. Other factors like your outdoor unit being surrounded by plants and rain falling directly on your outdoor unit will also accelerate the rusting process.

Air Conditioner Aging

Air conditioners typically have a lifespan of about 10-15 years and rusting is a normal part of aging. When your air conditioner unit is near its end of life, it will degrade due to regular wear and tear.

The aging signs such as rusting, high energy bills, weird AC noises and decreased airflow will start to appear once your air conditioner unit has reached its end of life.

How To Prevent Your Air Conditioning Unit From Rust

The only way to prevent rust is by focusing on preventative air conditioner maintenance. Regular inspection and cleaning your air conditioner will remove any dust or debris build-up that could cause rusting.

Here are 2 ways that can help you prevent your AC from rusting:

Clean Your ACs Filters

The easiest way to prevent your AC from rusting is by cleaning your ACs filters once every two weeks. With proper air conditioner filter maintenance, you will be able to minimize rusting.

Professional Inspection & Maintenance

If you want to protect your AC unit from rusting then you will need to conduct regular professional maintenance and inspection of your air conditioner.

The professional HVAC technicians will thoroughly examine your AC and make sure that it is in good working condition. They will also detect if there is rusting in any part of your air conditioner and will stop it from spreading.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning understands that investing in an AC is a major investment that you can’t afford again and again. For this reason, we would like to emphasize the importance of regular maintenance. Contact us for such services.

Causes Of Indoor AC Unit Water Leaks

An air conditioner is supposed to provide you with the comfort and cooling you need in summer. However, your air conditioner might degrade in performance with time, which could call for regular AC maintenance and repair.

Seeing water dripping down your air conditioner can be a very unsettling and unpleasant sight. This is even more disturbing if your indoor AC unit is constantly dripping water and turning your room into a messy puddle. It can become your worst nightmare if you don’t pay attention to your AC’s condition on time. The situation may worsen over time, and you might have to replace your AC or spend quite a lot of money on its repair.

Therefore, to avoid that messy puddle indoors due to your leaking AC unit, you must know why your air conditioner is leaking water. Moreover, your HVAC contractor can help you and give it the immediate attention it needs. This blog post will help you highlight some major causes of air conditioner water leaks.

Clogged Drain Line

This one is the most common reason for an AC to leak water. Your unit collects moisture during the dehumidification process. During this process, it also contains dirt, and over time, if the condensate drain line is not cleaned enough, it can accumulate dirt and debris and cause a blockage.

This blockage prevents the water from draining, and it will start to collect in your unit, causing it to spill out of the drain pan. Water cannot easily drain from the overflow pan when its train line is clogged.

Therefore, you must make sure that your condensed drain line is cleaned regularly and periodically to avoid any kind of clogging. Focus on HVAC maintenance and repair to ensure your AC is still working in good condition and prevent such problems.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter in your AC is responsible for filtering the air before it transfers it indoors. This filter can become dusty while working for an extended period, hampering the airflow. Moreover, the coils freeze when the air inside the evaporator becomes too cold, leading to ice build up; when this ice melts, the water drips due to the indoor unit.

Therefore, you must periodically replace or maintain your AC filter to avoid such problems. Keep checking your filters to ensure leak prevention, especially when the device is in heavy use.

Condensation Build-up

The air conditioner dehumidifying process includes a condensation process. It contains the air before it is delivered to your room. However, excessive condensation inside the AC can cause leaking water from the air ducts or vents. This water drips on your home’s insulation and causes further damage.

Moreover, it can also lead to mold growth in the air ducts and deteriorate your indoor air quality. Condensation build-up can happen for multiple reasons, such as when the air ducts are not properly insulated. Dirty air filters, blocked ducts, and a blocked drain pump can also leak water as the air is not able to circulate freely throughout your AC system.

Moreover, high humidity in the summer increases the chances of condensation build-up in your AC. Therefore, regular tuning and maintenance of your AC system are necessary to ensure that your ACs’ filters are in perfect condition and there is no condensation build-up.

Other Reasons For An Indoor AC Leak

Some of the other common reasons your AC may leak water, especially through the indoor unit are:

  • Frozen evaporator coils
  • Incorrect AC installation
  • Malfunctioning pump
  • Failed condensate pump

Why Does An AC Collect Water?

The purpose of an AC is to maintain the temperature and control the homes’ humidity level. When the warm air is taken from your home, it is blown over to the evaporator coils, which causes it to condense, thus making it less humid. Therefore, the resulting moisture drips into the drain pan, but if it is clogged or there is excessive moisture accumulation in your air conditioner, the water will not drain, but rather it will start to steep from the indoor unit.

Final Thoughts

Regular maintenance of your air conditioner can help prevent such issues and avoid water from coming inside your room. Moreover, you can also care for your AC on your own by cleaning its filters and checking its condensation coils. However, it is wise to call a professional HVAC company for regular check ups and to repair anything needed.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West understands that investing in an AC is a major investment that you can’t afford again and again. For this reason, we would like to emphasize the importance of regular maintenance. Contact us for such services.