Hibdons Heat and Air

HIBDON’S HEAT AND AIR

Tom Field — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 19:26:54 +0000

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Hibdon’s Named Preferred Edmond Heat and Air Service Company.

Tom Field — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 20:21:23 +0000

Edmond, OK is well-known for its rigorous building codes and mechanical regulations, ensuring that any service provider, must meet high standards. Hibdon’s Heat and Air has full knowledge of Edmond Heat and Air building codes and expectations. “Our techs and office staff, including myself, all have a working knowledge of the Edmond, Oklahoma Heat and Air rules and regulations. I raised my family in Edmond and have been a resident of Edmond. I want to make sure that we maintain the appeal they have 631on all property within city limits” stated Les Hibdon, of Hibdon’s Heat and Air.

Recently, an Edmond family faced daily fines due to the noise coming from their air conditioner, which paints a picture of the city’s persistent enforcement of these regulations. This situation alone, proves the importance of choosing a contractor familiar with local codes to avoid such situations.

Hibdon’s Heat and Air prides itself on maintaining standards that align with the expectations of Edmond city officials. With competitive pricing, commitment to customer satisfaction, and a reputation for maintaining the same customers for decades, The Hibdon family continues to build on its legacy of trusted businesses in Edmond since the 1980s.

Edmond Heat and Air repair, may be a challenge avoided by some companies, once again, Hibdon’s Heat and Air has stepped up to the plate to make sure that Edmond residents are getting the biggest bang for their buck while adhering to a city that wants the best possible mechanical and cosmetic solutions to keep up with their civic pride.

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The Phasing Out of R-410A – What U.S residents need to know

Tom Field — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 17:26:27 +0000

A container of R-410A refrigerant.

R-410A, has long been a staple in the HVAC industry due to its efficiency and affordability. However, its adverse environmental impact, particularly its contribution to ozone depletion, has prompted global efforts to eliminate its use, to mitigate environmental harm.

So, what does this mean for you as a homeowner? Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the phase-out of R-410A will affect the availability and cost of servicing existing HVAC systems. As supplies dwindle and demand shifts towards alternative refrigerants, prices may rise, and sourcing R-410A for repairs could become more challenging.

To prepare for this transition, homeowners are encouraged to take proactive steps:

Schedule a System Inspection: Contact your local HVAC company to schedule an inspection of your air conditioning system.

Consider Upgrading to Environmentally Friendly Alternatives: In anticipation of the phase-out, consider upgrading your HVAC system to one that utilizes an environmentally friendly refrigerants like R32.

Plan for Maintenance and Repairs: Be prepared for potential maintenance and repair needs as the phase-out progresses. Work with your HVAC provider to establish a maintenance schedule and budget for any necessary updates or conversions.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about developments in HVAC regulations and technologies.

Local HVAC companies are poised to assist homeowners through this transition. Les Hibdon, owner of Hibdon’s Heat and Air in Oklahoma City, emphasizes the importance of proactive preparation:

“As the phase-out of R-410A approaches, it’s crucial for homeowners to be proactive in assessing their HVAC systems. Our team at Hibdon’s Heat and Air is dedicated to helping our customers navigate this transition smoothly. Whether it’s conducting system inspections, recommending environmentally friendly alternatives, or providing maintenance and repairs, we’re committed to ensuring our clients’ comfort and satisfaction.”

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Hibdon’s Heat and Air: How Long Does an HVAC System Last?

Ron Dougherty — Mon, 15 May 2023 09:58:35 +0000

As a homeowner or business owner, you know that keeping your property’s heat and cooling systems in top condition is essential to ensure comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. But with so many different HVAC systems on the market, it can be challenging to know when it’s time to replace your existing system or what factors to consider when doing so.

How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?

On average, HVAC systems last around 15-20 years. But many factors can influence their life expectancy. Factors that can impact the longevity of your HVAC unit include:

the quality of the equipment
how often you schedule regular maintenance
the level of use it receives

When to Replace Your HVAC System

One of the most critical factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your HVAC system is its age. If your unit is more than 15 years old, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it. This is especially important if you’ve noticed an increase in your utility bills or if it’s not performing as well as it used to.

Other signs that your HVAC unit may be nearing the end of its lifespan include:

Frequent breakdowns or repairs
Uneven heating or cooling throughout your property
Unusual noises or smells coming from the system
The need for increasingly expensive repairs

Factors To Consider When Choosing a New Unit

Property Size

The size of your property and the heating and cooling load it requires. An experienced HVAC technician can help you determine the appropriate size and type of unit for your property.

Energy Efficiency

HVAC systems are responsible for a significant portion of your property’s energy bills. So investing in an energy-efficient unit can help you save money on your utility bills over time. Look for units with an Energy Star rating, which indicates that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.

Variable-speed AC units are also an excellent option for energy-efficient cooling. These air conditioner units can adjust their output to match your property’s heating and cooling needs, reducing energy waste and keeping your utility bills low.

Location

Finally, consider your location when choosing a new HVAC unit. Coastal areas, for example, may require different types of air conditioning systems or heat pumps than properties located further inland. An experienced HVAC technician can help you choose the right unit for your location and specific needs.

Regular Maintenance Can Extend the Life of Your HVAC System

Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your HVAC system. Scheduling annual maintenance visits from an experienced technician can help you identify and address small issues before they turn into more significant problems that require costly repairs or replacements.

During maintenance visits, your technician will inspect and clean your HVAC unit, replace any worn or damaged parts, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance can also help you save money on your energy bills by ensuring that your HVAC system is operating efficiently.

Takeaways

Investing in a new HVAC system is a significant decision, and it’s essential to consider all factors carefully when choosing a replacement unit. The lifespan of HVAC systems can vary widely depending on several factors, including regular maintenance, usage, and quality of the equipment.

If you’re unsure about whether to replace your existing HVAC unit or need help choosing a new one, contact the experienced technicians at Hibdon’s Heat and Air. We can provide expert guidance and help you choose the best HVAC system for your property’s heating and cooling needs.

Schedule a service today!

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The Top 5 Most Common AC Problems at Home

Ron Dougherty — Mon, 15 May 2023 09:41:44 +0000

With warm temperatures comes the need to make sure everything is working properly with your AC unit. You wouldn’t believe the number of calls we get on some of the hottest days of the summer.

While we’re more than happy to help you with common AC problems any time of the year, you don’t have to let common air conditioning issues cause you and your family discomfort. Tackle them now. Here are the top 5 most common AC problems that homeowners may encounter.

1. AC Blowing Warm Air

One of the most common problems with AC units that we encounter is an air conditioner that is blowing warm or even hot air.

This problem could be due to a dirty air filter, which blocks the airflow and reduces the unit’s efficiency. Another cause could be a malfunctioning compressor, which may require professional repair or replacement.

Your goal is to rule out the first issue. Check, clean, or replace your air filters regularly, every 30-60 days, and be sure to have us come out and check your system periodically as well.

2. AC Won’t Turn On

The worst issue to run into is when your AC won’t even kick on. There are a number of reasons why this happens. Some are easy to fix, while others aren’t.

The first thing you want to do is check your circuit breaker. You may have tripped a circuit and caused power to stop flowing to your AC unit.

Your thermostat could also be causing the issue. Take the covering off and make sure everything is connected — check that none of the wires have come loose. Be sure to shut the breaker off before removing the thermostat plate.

If you’ve done all of these things and still haven’t identified the issue, give us a call to come out and look at your system. Additionally, consider investing in a programmable thermostat to regulate your home’s temperature more efficiently.

3. Uneven Temperature Distribution

If you notice that some rooms in your house are colder or warmer than others, your AC unit may be experiencing uneven temperature distribution. This could be due to several reasons, such as dirty air ducts, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

To prevent this issue, make sure to clean or replace your air filter regularly and schedule professional duct cleaning to ensure proper airflow.

We can install supplementary systems that can help with certain rooms that may struggle to stay cold (i.e rooms with a lot of large windows, finished attics, etc).

4. Refrigerant or Water Leak

A refrigerant or water leak can cause significant damage to your AC unit and require expensive repairs. Symptoms of this problem include reduced airflow, higher energy bills, and water puddles around the unit.

If you take a look at your AC unit and you notice puddles of water around it, you’ll want to contact us immediately. Don’t put the problem off. You’ll be paying for it when you get your electric bill.

5. AC Tripping Circuit Breaker

If your AC unit keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it could be due to an electrical issue, such as a short circuit, loose electrical connection, or overloaded circuit. This problem can lead to safety hazards and damage to your unit.

Make sure you’re not overloading your circuit breaker and consider adding another breaker box if you feel like you are. Depending on the age of your home, you might only have a 60, 80, or 100 amp box, whereas most new homes have 200 amps now.

Can a Thermostat Affect AC in the House?

Yes, your thermostat will impact the performance of your heating and cooling system. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it may not accurately read the temperature or regulate the airflow, leading to uneven temperature distribution or higher energy bills.

Final Thoughts

As a homeowner, make sure you address any of these issues right away to prevent further damage or discomfort in your home. Remember that these are the most common AC problems and solutions, so most of them can be handled with a little research.

Be sure to schedule annual maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician from Hibdon’s Heat and Air to prevent further issues in the future.

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Are HVAC Maintenance Contracts Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide

Ron Dougherty — Fri, 12 May 2023 14:22:41 +0000

As a homeowner or business owner, you know how important it is to have a well-functioning HVAC system. Whether it’s keeping your family comfortable or ensuring your employees can work efficiently, your HVAC system is a vital part of your space.

However, like any mechanical system, your HVAC system requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. That’s where HVAC maintenance contracts come in. But are maintenance plans worth the money?

What is an HVAC maintenance contract?

An HVAC maintenance contract is a service agreement between you and an HVAC company.

The contract provides a range of services to ensure your HVAC system is running at optimal efficiency.

The services included in the contract can vary depending on the type of contract you choose. Some of the most common types of heating and air conditioner maintenance contracts include:

HVAC Preventative Maintenance Contracts: These contracts include regular inspections and tune-ups to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. They can also include discounts on repairs and emergency service.
Full-Service HVAC Maintenance Contracts: These contracts include all the services in preventative maintenance contracts as well as repairs and emergency services.
Priority Service Contracts: These contracts prioritize your service calls so you can get repairs done quickly and efficiently.

What services are included in an HVAC maintenance contract?

The services included in an HVAC maintenance contract can vary depending on the contract you choose. However, most contracts include some combination of the following services:

Regular Inspections: An HVAC equipment technician will visit your property at regular intervals to inspect your HVAC system. They’ll look for signs of wear and tear, clean the components, and make sure everything is working correctly.
Preventative Maintenance: Preventative maintenance includes tasks such as changing filters, cleaning coils, and lubricating moving parts. These tasks help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Priority Service: Some contracts offer priority service for emergency repairs. This means that if your HVAC system breaks down, you’ll get faster service than someone who isn’t on a contract.

Discounts on Repairs: Some contracts offer discounts on repairs, which can save you money if your HVAC system needs to be fixed.
Emergency Service: Some contracts include emergency service. This means that if your HVAC system breaks down outside of regular business hours, you can still get a technician to come to your property to fix it.

How much do HVAC maintenance contracts cost?

The HVAC service costs of an HVAC maintenance contract can vary depending on the type of contract you choose and the services included. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $150 to $500 per year for a preventative maintenance contract. Full-service contracts and priority service contracts can cost more.

Are HVAC maintenance contracts worth the money?

Now that you know what HVAC maintenance agreements are and what services they include, it’s time to determine whether they’re worth the money. Here are the pros and cons of HVAC maintenance contracts to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

Peace of Mind: An HVAC service contract gives you peace of mind knowing that your HVAC system is being regularly inspected and maintained. This can help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Lower Repair Costs: Regular maintenance can help prevent breakdowns, which can save you money on repairs.
Better Efficiency: Regular maintenance can help keep your HVAC system running at optimal efficiency, which can save you money on energy bills.

Priority Service: If you have a priority service contract, you’ll get faster service than someone who isn’t on a contract.
Longer Lifespan: Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Cons:

Cost: HVAC maintenance contracts can be expensive, especially if you opt for a full-service contract or priority service contract.
Unnecessary Services: Some HVAC companies may try to sell you unnecessary services as part of a maintenance contract, which can increase the cost without providing any additional benefits.

DIY Maintenance: If you’re handy, you may be able to perform some of the maintenance tasks yourself, which can save you money.
Limited Benefits: If your HVAC system is relatively new, you may not need regular maintenance. In this case, an HVAC maintenance contract may not be worth the money.

So, are HVAC maintenance contracts worth the money? The answer is, it depends.

If you want peace of mind knowing that your HVAC system is being regularly inspected and maintained, and you’re willing to pay for it, then an HVAC maintenance contract may be worth the money.

If you’re handy and can perform some of the maintenance tasks yourself, or if your HVAC system is relatively new and doesn’t require regular maintenance, then an HVAC maintenance contract may not be worth the money.

Tips for Choosing an HVAC Maintenance Contract

If you’ve decided that an HVAC maintenance contract is worth the money, here are some tips for choosing the right contract for you:

Compare Prices: Shop around and compare prices from different HVAC companies. Make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Look for Comprehensive Contracts: Look for contracts that include a range of services, such as regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and priority service.
Check for Unnecessary Services: Make sure the contract doesn’t include any unnecessary services that will increase the cost without providing any additional benefits.

Read the Fine Print: Read the contract carefully before signing. Make sure you understand what services are included and what the cost will be.
Consider Your Needs: Consider your specific needs when choosing a contract. For example, if you live in an area with harsh winters, you may want a contract that includes priority service for heating repairs.

Conclusion

HVAC maintenance contracts can be a good investment if you want peace of mind knowing that your HVAC system is being regularly inspected and maintained. However, they can be expensive, and if your HVAC system is relatively new or you’re handy, you may not need regular maintenance.

When choosing a contract, make sure you shop around, compare prices, and choose a contract that meets your specific needs. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money and that your HVAC system is running at optimal efficiency.

Schedule a service today!

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The Ultimate HVAC Tune Up Checklist

Ron Dougherty — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 18:20:02 +0000

HVAC tune ups are essential to ensure your HVAC system is performing efficiently. Unfortunately, many people do not consider scheduling an HVAC tune up until something goes wrong and the system no longer functions as it should.

To prevent malfunctions in your HVAC system, you should have a professional complete an HVAC tune up checklist at least once every year. Wondering what’s on the list? Here are the most important parts of an HVAC tune up checklist.

1. Inspect and Replace Air Filters

When going through your HVAC tune up checklist, it is essential to inspect and replace your air filters about every three months. However, this timeframe can change based on your home’s location and your system and equipment’s age.

Inspecting and replacing your filters helps avoid performance problems and improves your HVAC system’s overall performance.

2. Clean Air Ducts

Another vital HVAC tune up checklist essential is cleaning your air ducts at least once a year. When your air ducts are neglected, they accumulate pollen, dust particles, mold, or other types of debris.

When you turn your HVAC system on, the pollutants are recirculated throughout your home. Any debris inside the ducts can impact your family’s health and general comfort. Having a professional clean your air ducts as recommended can help prevent health problems and ensure your HVAC system’s airflow is not obstructed.

3. Clean Evaporator Coils

Cleaning your evaporator coils is another crucial part of the HVAC tune up process. A professional should clean your evaporator coils yearly to prevent dirt and debris from impacting the heating or cooling exchange process.

Taking the time to clean your evaporator coils helps your HVAC system work appropriately, and it can help prolong its life. Try to have the evaporator coils cleaned each year.

4. Check Refrigerant Line

Checking the refrigerant line on your HVAC system is an essential step in your HVAC tune-up checklist. Visually inspecting your refrigerant line can help detect a leak.

A leak can be identified by checking for any oily or dirty spots, as they indicate the site of the leak. If your refrigerant line appears dirty, discolored, or damaged, you should contact a heating and cooling professional to take a closer look.

5. Check Fan and Electrical System

The last task on your HVAC winter tune up checklist is to get your fan and electrical system checked. Your HVAC fan and motor should be checked annually to ensure everything works efficiently.

Checking them yearly helps you to detect any issues with your HVAC system. The main electrical components you should check include fan motors, gas valves, solenoid valves, and compressors.

What Is an HVAC Tune Up?

An HVAC tune up involves a professional checking your system every spring and fall to ensure your system is working correctly. An HVAC tune up checklist consists of inspecting or replacing air filters, cleaning air ducts and evaporator coils, and checking the refrigerant line.

What Are the 4 Phases of Planned HVAC Maintenance?

While planned HVAC maintenance can be classified in many ways, it most commonly falls into these categories:

1. Corrective Maintenance

Corrective maintenance is when your HVAC system requires immediate attention, such as unclogging a filter or fixing a broken belt. Corrective maintenance could also involve more serious matters, such as fixing an electrical short.

2. Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance involves regularly checking your HVAC system for issues before they significantly affect its performance.

Typically, preventive maintenance involves replacing or cleaning filters, replacing worn parts, cleaning coils, adjusting airflow settings, and checking temperatures throughout your home to ensure your system works appropriately.

3. Risk-Based Maintenance

Risk-based maintenance requires frequent inspections of your HVAC system by a trained professional. Depending on your HVAC system’s manufacturer recommendations, you must schedule regular service appointments.

These service appointments will help identify any potential issues within your system, and they will determine how often your system should be serviced.

4. Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance uses data from multiple sources to help determine when your HVAC system will need repairs or replacements before it becomes an issue.

As soon as an issue occurs, an HVAC technician will be dispatched to check your system before it becomes a significant problem. Predictive maintenance allows you to schedule maintenance based on the performance of your system rather than letting your system go until something happens.

Is HVAC Tune Up the Same As Maintenance?

A seasonal HVAC tune up is a type of preventative maintenance. Seasonal tune-ups are usually performed in the early spring and fall before heating and cooling seasons begin.

Do You Really Need an HVAC Tune Up?

You should have an HVAC tune up at least once a year, as it can significantly reduce the risk of your system suffering from a breakdown. An HVAC tune up ensures everything within your system functions correctly and that your system operates as it should.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait until it is too late to get your HVAC tune up. At Hibdon’s Heat and Air, we will complete the ultimate HVAC tune up checklist to ensure your system functions at its best.

If you want to ensure your system works efficiently and stop any potential HVAC problems before they start, schedule a service call today!

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How Do Leaky Windows Affect Heating Costs?

Ron Dougherty — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 18:11:37 +0000

As a homeowner, keeping your home comfortable and warm throughout the winter can be challenging. This is especially true if you have leaky windows.

If you have exhausted all ways of sealing your leaking windows without success, you should consider replacing your windows. Most energy-efficient windows will offer a long-term solution to preventing drafts and regulating fluctuating temperatures throughout your home.

Leaky Windows Let in Drafts

It is essential to know how to seal leaky windows, as leaky windows let in drafts. When there is a draft in your home due to leaking windows, your house will feel colder than would otherwise be. Drafty air can cause you to turn up the heat, raising your energy bills.

As a result of using your heating system more frequently, your system may become overworked while attempting to keep up with warming your home.

Poor Air Quality

Leaky windows can affect the air quality within your home. If gaps exist in your windows, polluted air could enter your home.

The air can be filled with dirt, bacteria, and dust not visible to the blind eye, but your lungs will notice. The build-up from polluted air can cause your heating system to overwork itself, potentially leading to issues down the road and raising your heating costs.

Unstable Room Temperatures

Leaky windows often cause fluctuating room temperatures. Leaking windows can affect how your home is heated. If your thermostat is in a room that feels cold, your heat will kick on more often than it needs to heat it.

You might frequently adjust the thermostat to make your home feel more comfortable, but without success. This is inconvenient, and the constant fluctuation in room temperatures will cause your heating bills to rise.

What Are the Signs of a Leaky Window?

There are various signs to look out for when detecting a leaky window. Pay attention to if there are drafts in specific rooms throughout your home, unwanted outside noise, or if there is condensation between window panes.

There may be more obvious signs, such as peeling paint from moisture damage. You may feel air coming through the closed windows, or there could be stains around leaky windows.

How to Fix a Leaky Window

You can do a few things to help fix your leaky windows.

Caulking

Caulking is often a good fix for sealing leaky windows. You can fill any small gaps within your window frame by caulking them. This sticky substance will mold between the cracks in your window and fill up any open spaces, sealing the leak.

You can caulk your windows from either the outside or inside. However, be sure you choose a specific caulking for inside or outside depending on where you need to seal the leaky window.

Weather Stripping

Leaks often develop due to worn-out weather stripping. You can simply replace the old weather stripping with newer material. You can find weather stripping supplies at your local hardware store.

To weatherstrip your window, clean your window well and identify any gaps that need to be sealed. You can choose from foam tape weather stripping, felt strips, self-sticking tape, or vinyl “V” strips to seal your window’s leak.

Window Film

You can also find window film at your local hardware store to help fix the leak. Window film is a transparent plastic sheet you can attach to your window panes.

Typically, you can use a hair dryer to help shrink the material and apply the film. Before applying your window film, clean the window. You can use a squeegee to remove dust after cleaning, but ensure you get any excess soap off the window before applying the film.

Draft Snake

A draft snake is an affordable solution to fix a window leak. Often, you will see a draft snake pushed up against the bottom of a door. However, a draft snake looks a little different when on windows.

You can trim the snake to match the length of your window, place it on the window sill, and close your window on the snake. This will help you eliminate unwanted drafts in the short term, but is a temporary solution to improve your leaky window’s efficiency.

Replace Your Windows

If you have tried everything to fix the leak and have seen no success, it might be time to replace your old windows with energy-efficient windows.

A window replacement is a long-term solution to fixing leaking windows. You will need to have a window company come and replace your windows for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Leaky windows can cause a rise in the cost of your energy bills, as your home needs to be correctly heated.

It is essential to address this issue as soon as possible to help keep your home warm throughout the winter and cool during the summer.

We can help with your HVAC system repair, maintenance, or replacement service. To ensure your system is running efficiently, schedule a service today!

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5 Most Common HVAC Problems in the Home

Ron Dougherty — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:21:56 +0000

As a homeowner, you always want to make sure you’re keeping your family comfortable inside the house. Unfortunately, things go wrong and common HVAC problems can always arise.

Thankfully, none of these issues are too serious and you can resolve many of them on your own. Here are five of the most common HVAC problems you’ll encounter as a homeowner.

1. Noticeable Reduction in Efficiency

One of the most common HVAC problems is a noticeable reduction in efficiency. This can manifest in a number of ways, including higher energy bills, longer run times, and reduced heating or cooling capacity.

Some possible causes of reduced efficiency include dirty air filters, blocked ducts, refrigerant leaks, and a malfunctioning compressor.

To fix this problem, you can start by checking and replacing your air filter regularly, cleaning your ducts, and scheduling regular maintenance for your HVAC system.

A lot of homeowners don’t realize they’re supposed to get their HVAC system serviced every year. This is what leads to long-term damage and reduced efficiency. An HVAC tune-up is a great way to keep your system running smoothly.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Another common HVAC problem is a malfunctioning thermostat. If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can result in inconsistent temperatures throughout your home. This can be caused by a faulty sensor, dead batteries, or wiring issues.

The best way to fix this is by first checking the batteries, then resetting it. If the problem continues, this is an issue where it might be best to call in a professional.

3. Uneven Temperature Distribution

If you’re noticing that certain rooms in the house are always warm while other areas are always cold, this could be the result of uneven heating throughout the home.

A number of factors including a bad thermostat, blocked vents, and poor insulation can cause this.

You’ll want to start by checking the vents and air filters yourself. In many cases, however, you’ll need to hire a professional to inspect the ductwork and provide more complex solutions.

4. Squealing and Screeching

If you hear unusual sounds coming from your HVAC system, such as squealing or screeching, as American Home Shield explains, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. This could indicate a damaged fan belt, malfunctioning motor, or a failing compressor.

To fix this problem, you should immediately turn off your system and call in a professional to diagnose and repair your HVAC.

5. Blown Fuse/Tripped Breakers

If your HVAC system has suddenly stopped and is not coming back on, you’ll want to check your breakers. This will occur when the system is overloaded or if there is an electrical issue with the wiring that is causing the breaker to trip.

You can try resetting the breaker. If the issue continues to happen, you’ll want to call a professional immediately to look at it.

What Causes an HVAC Thermostat to Fail?

One of the most common HVAC problems is a failing thermostat. There are several reasons why this can happen:

Age: The age of your thermostat will obviously impact its performance. A thermostat will last around 10 years. If yours is approaching that age, it might be time for a replacement.
Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, short circuits, and power surges can cause damage to the thermostat’s electrical components, leading to failure.
Dirty or Clogged Components: Accumulation of dust, debris, or dirt on the thermostat components, especially the sensor, can affect its performance and cause it to fail.
Incorrect Installation: If the thermostat or wiring isn’t properly installed, it can lead to damage to thermostat components or improper function. If the thermostat was recently installed and isn’t working at all, this is likely the issue.
Battery Issues: If your thermostat is battery-operated and not hardwired, you’ll have the check the batteries every few months. If the batteries are dead or worn down, it can cause the HVAC system to malfunction or not turn on when it should.

What Are The Five Factors That Affect HVAC Comfort?

If you know how to diagnose HVAC problems, you’re less likely to have to suffer through HVAC issues. Here are five of the most important factors that impact the performance of your HVAC system:

Temperature: Temperature is obvious. Without a comfortable temperature in your home, you can’t enjoy yourself. If the HVAC system isn’t working properly, you won’t be able to have a comfortable temperature.
Humidity: The amount of moisture in the air will impact your comfort. High humidity causes a warmer and more muggy environment while low humidity causes dryness.
Airflow: Your HVAC system should ensure proper air circulation throughout the home to maintain consistent temperatures.
Air Quality: Many HVAC systems help to filter contaminants and keep them out of the house.
Noise: HVAC systems that are loud or produce annoying sounds can be distracting and impact comfort levels. Quiet and unobtrusive HVAC systems are ideal for creating a comfortable environment.

HVAC problem-solving shouldn’t leave you puzzled. You have common HVAC problems and solutions are waiting for you with Hibdon’s Heat and Air. Schedule a service today!

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How Often Should a Furnace Be Serviced? A Practical Guide

Ron Dougherty — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:42:08 +0000

As a homeowner, you already know that it’s important to keep your home feeling comfortable throughout the year.

After all, your furnace keeps your home warm during the winter months.

Without proper care and maintenance, there are a number of issues you can run into with your furnace. So, how often should a furnace be serviced?

Unfortunately, this isn’t always common knowledge. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about furnace maintenance.

How Often to Service Your Furnace?

A general rule of thumb is that your furnace should be serviced at least once a year. Ideally, it would be best to schedule furnace maintenance in the fall, before the heating season begins.

By having your furnace serviced before you start using it, you can ensure that it’s in good condition and will work reliably throughout the winter.

The last thing you want to worry about is firing it up for the first time and running into problems when you need to heat your home. These tips from This Old House can help you save on energy costs, but they won’t replace a broken furnace.

How Do I Know if My Furnace Needs Cleaning?

Now, you know how often to service a furnace in general. How do you know if service is needed in the immediate future, or if the previous owner of the home has ever done it?

There are some telltale signs of a furnace in need of service. Some of these indicators include:

Increased energy bills
Strange noises coming from the furnace
Cycling on and off more frequently than usual
Soot or dirt around the furnace
Unusual amounts of dust in the home

These are all signs that your furnace hasn’t been serviced in a while. If you’re purchasing a home or recently bought one, check the furnace itself. Look to see if there is a register of all recent services on the unit.

Chances are you’ll find documentation somewhere on or near the furnace about the last time a technician came out to look at it.

What is Included in Furnace Servicing?

What exactly should you expect during furnace servicing? A trained technician will come out and do some or all of the following:

Cleaning the furnace’s interior and exterior components, including the burners, blower motor, and air filters.
Checking and adjusting the furnace’s gas pressure and ensuring the furnace is running at peak efficiency.
Inspecting the furnace’s electrical components, including the wiring, control board, and safety switches.
Lubricating any moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
Checking the furnace’s thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly.

Is a Furnace Tune-Up Worth It?

A tune-up might be one of those things you think you can go without. After all, the furnace and everything else around it seems to be running fine, right?

Regular maintenance will keep your furnace running efficiently, which will save you money on your energy bills. Additionally, regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your furnace.

The cost of a tune-up is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of replacing your furnace prematurely.

It’s essential that you remember to get your furnace serviced regularly to prevent issues in the long run.

What Happens if You Don’t Service Your Furnace?

If you neglect to service your furnace regularly, it can result in costly breakdowns, reduced efficiency, and increased energy bills.

Additionally, a poorly maintained furnace can pose a safety hazard. A dirty furnace can cause carbon monoxide to leak into your home, which can be deadly. Regular furnace maintenance can prevent these issues and keep your home safe.

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

One critical area of furnace maintenance is regularly changing the air filter. Having a dirty air filter will restrict airflow reducing your furnace’s efficiency, causing the furnace to overheat.

You’ll want to change the furnace filter once every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use it. If you have pets, you may want to change it more frequently.

Final Thoughts

Furnace maintenance might seem like one of those things you can neglect and not worry about it. The furnace is usually tucked into the corner of the house, so it gets forgotten about.

That said, scheduling regular furnace maintenance will help prevent costly breakdowns and will help you save money on energy bills while extending the life of your furnace. So, how often should a gas furnace be serviced? Once a year.

You’re now equipped with the knowledge necessary to properly care for your furnace.

It’s important that you only hire trained and experienced professionals like the team at Hibdons Heat and Air.

We’re all experts in heating and cooling, we’re focused on service, not sales, and we have over 60 years of experience servicing homes in the OKC area. If you need furnace servicing, schedule one today!

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