Category: Blog

The Link between Your Air Conditioner and Your Cough

old man coughing

To get straight to the point: Your air conditioner could be causing a dry cough. Nowadays, we see that people have become more conscious of their health. Feeling slightly under the weather should never once again be taken lightly. Meanwhile, a little cough may be something more severe.

However, before you let panic set it, know that experiencing periodic and seasonal colds and coughs may simply be due to the environment you are in or the sudden changes in weather. Other times, it could be your air conditioner.

Read on to learn more about the link between your air conditioner and your cough. 

Being on Constant “High Alert”

Indeed, going outdoors to run errands, shop, and buy groceries may feel like a covert mission, especially when everyone is on high alert. At the same time, seasonal allergies make such travel more difficult. Going out with a dry cough caused by allergies may draw unwanted looks and comments. Everyone is afraid of becoming sick and infecting their family with any type of disease.

Patients suffering from seasonal allergies may take every care to protect themselves and others, yet coughing in public makes them a target. Indoor air quality is typically poor, which is also why people have invested in things like air purifiers and dehumidifiers.

Understanding Cold Air and Coughing

In the spring, allergies and asthma induce a dry cough. Coughing usually is caused by mold, pet dander, dust, pollen, and other irritants. It is caused by allergens irritating the airways. Few children listened to their parents’ warnings not to go outside because they would catch a cold.

Although cold, dry air does not cause illness, it can aggravate asthma and allergy symptoms by causing a dry cough.

Spring is allergy season when the weather warms and people spend more time outside. Furthermore, this is when individuals use air conditioning. Although, it is worth noting that inhaling a lot of air-conditioner breeze can cause a dry cough by constricting the airways.

The Temperature of Your Home

Maintain a temperature in your home between 72 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit to keep wind gusts from narrowing your airways.

This will keep your home from becoming too hot when the temperature rises and will keep your home at a healthy level of humidity, preventing your neck from drying out.

Consistent temperatures can also help to reduce energy expenses. Less runtime means fewer air contaminants and warmer temperatures for the lungs and respiratory system.

Using a Humidifier

As previously stated, indoor humidity can either relieve or aggravate a dry cough. Humidity is used to measure air humidity. Indoor relative humidity levels should be between 50% and 55%.

Humidifiers provide moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe. Dirty humidifiers can cause health problems, so clean yours on a regular basis.

Cleaning your humidifier removes allergen-causing dust and mold. People who are afraid to go to the grocery store because they have a dry cough are having difficulty.

If this is the case, turn down your air conditioning to avoid wind gusts and invest in a humidifier to bring moisture to the air. Improve your allergy symptoms so you can go outside again.

Conclusion

More than achieving the comfort that air conditioners can give us, we should be mindful of how air quality can affect our overall breathing. Remember, air quality should be prioritized and comfort will follow. Simply keep this information in mind and share it with your friends and family.

Are you looking for air conditioning service? Mainline Heating and Air is Alabaster’s esteemed company of professionals. Give us a call today and learn more about our team and services!

Trane Furnaces: What Are They and Why Should You Have Them?

furnace

A furnace is a heating system that circulates warm air throughout a house. This air is delivered through a network of ducts in a central heating system. 

Trane furnaces are designed to take the stress out of heating a home. They are equipped with innovative technological features that optimize a home’s heating system and are available in standard and variable configurations. They can be installed in new construction or existing homes.

What Is Trane?

Trane is a large corporation that specializes in manufacturing heating and cooling systems. They are known for making high-quality heating systems and furnaces. People are increasingly turning to this brand for peace of mind regarding their furnaces. Furthermore, the brand offers a variety of models to meet the needs of all homeowners.

How Trane Heating Systems Work

Trane furnaces employ a variety of methods to heat a home. They have a built-in fan that circulates warm air throughout the home. Ducts lead warm air to different areas of the house.

The heating process is automatic, and the system will send out warm air as soon as it senses it is needed. The heating system also utilizes a humidifier and dehumidifier to keep the air at its optimal moisture content.

A Trane furnace’s method to heat a home depends on its model. Some furnaces use different techniques, including combustion, warm air distribution, and hydronic heating.

Why Is Trane Furnace Worth Investing?

Trane furnaces are convenient and appeal to homeowners with a variety of needs. They provide homeowners with a consistent supply of warm air. This helps to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout a home.

Trane furnaces are energy efficient and feature a variety of safety features. They are also durable, and their lifespan tends to outlast other furnace models. This will provide homeowners with a reliable heat source for years to come.

How Do You Maintain a Trane Furnace?

Trane furnaces are designed to be low-maintenance heating systems. It uses sensors to gauge when they need to send warm air. The heating system also adjusts the temperature and airflow to maintain optimal comfort in a home.

Further, trane furnaces have a built-in monitoring system that delivers updated information to the homeowner. This will notify when it is time to clean the heating system or update if there is a problem with the heating system. 

Will the Trane Furnace Work for My Home?

Trane furnaces are available in various sizes and specifications. It can be installed in many homes, including large homes and older ones.

Also, the heating system will come with instructions on tailoring it to the size of a home. A Trane furnace can also be modified to work with a pre-existing heating system.

Conclusion

Trane furnaces are high-quality heating systems that can provide homeowners with a comfortable and consistent heat supply. They are simple to utilize and can be tailored to fit the needs of a home’s heating system. They also come with a variety of safety features and options for customization.

Finally, they are equipped with several innovative features that make maintaining a comfortable temperature in the home easy. The furnaces are also designed to last, and a properly maintained Trane furnace can last for decades.

If you need heating and AC services in Alabaster, Al, especially for your Trane furnace, Mainline Heating and Air is here at your service! Our team is what you need for quick and efficient services. Contact us now!

5 Signs Your AC Needs Repair Work from a Professional

dining room with ac

If you’re like most homeowners, then you’ve probably had air conditioning problems before. And, if you’ve had any problems at all, you know how quickly those problems will pile up if you do not get help. So, before things get any worse, you should call an HVAC professional as soon as you see any of the following warning signs.

Noisy AC Unit

Air conditioner units are known for making strange noises, but this doesn’t mean you should ignore them. If you notice that any of the noises from your AC unit sound like they are getting louder, then you should schedule an appointment with an HVAC professional. Most of the time, this is caused by a buildup of dirt and dust on the coils inside the unit.

Energy Bills Going Up

When you start noticing that your energy bills are going up, then it’s often a sign that you need to schedule an appointment with an HVAC professional. This is especially true if your energy bills fluctuate or are consistently very high. It could very well mean that your AC unit is already in bad shape and doesn’t work as well as it used to. If your AC unit has been working for ten years or more, then you may want to consider replacing it with a new unit that is energy efficient.

Unusual Smells

There are many different reasons why your air conditioner might start to smell. Some of these smells are indicative of a problem that needs to be addressed immediately, while others indicate a problem that will need to be addressed eventually but isn’t necessarily an emergency. However, if you notice any smells that you didn’t recognize or that you didn’t associate with your air conditioner before, then an HVAC professional should be called right away.

It could be nothing at all, or it’s possible that there’s already mold building up in your AC unit. This can lead to mold and mildew growth in your home, which is not only disgusting but could be a major health hazard as well.

Whenever you notice any strange smells coming from your air conditioner, then you should schedule an appointment with an HVAC professional right away.

Warm Air

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a completely functional air conditioner can still leak warm air into the house. However, it can indeed happen. If you notice that your home seems to always be warm, then this may be the culprit.

High Humidity

Aside from warm air coming out of your AC unit, you may also see that the humidity levels in your home are higher than usual. This is often caused by water leaking from your air conditioner. If you notice that there is an excessive amount of humidity in your home, then call an HVAC professional right away.

If this happens, then you should seek out an HVAC professional immediately.

Conclusion

No matter what warning signs you notice from your AC unit, you should never wait very long to call for help. Left alone, your AC unit problems can only get worse and can cause problems with your health, your home, and your wallet.

If you’re having problems with your heating and cooling systems, it’s best to call in the professionals and let them handle all the work. That’s exactly what Mainline Heating and Air is here for. Our team is uniquely qualified to help you repair any broken HVAC components as well as find the right system that fits your needs and your budget. Whenever you need air conditioning repair in Alabaster, AL, give Mainline Heating and Air a call. We’ll are more than happy to help.

Common Water Heater Issues and What You Should Do

water from shower

What a nightmare would it be if you woke up on a cold day to a broken water heater. Water heaters can face a lot of different issues. In this article, we will talk about the most common water heater issues and their causes.

1. Fluctuating Water Temperature

Do you notice that the temperature of the water coming out of your water heater is not constant? If you do, you might have a thermostat issue. Most water heaters have a built-in thermostat that controls the temperature of the water coming out of the water heater.

For the thermostat to work properly, the temperature of the water should be kept between 131-135 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is lower or higher than this, there is a problem. To fix this problem, you will need to take the safety precautions recommended by the manufacturer and contact a professional.

2. A Leak in the Heater

If you can see water dripping from your water heater, there is a chance that your water heater has a leak. If you notice water dripping from your water heater, you need to turn off the power and call a professional to fix the problem.

Most of the time, leaking water heaters are caused by a lot of different issues like a bad thermostat, a leaky valve, or a damaged gas valve. If you don’t fix this problem, you could end up with a lot of damage to your home.

3. A Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from your water heater, there is a chance that there might be a gas leak. You should turn off the power and call a professional to investigate.

If you notice a strong burning smell, it is best to turn off the power and wait for the gas to dissipate. A gas leak can be very dangerous if you are not careful.

You don’t want to try and fix the problem yourself, especially if the leak is caused by old plumbing or a bad gas valve.

4. Rusty and Smelly Water

If you have rusty and smelly water coming out of your water heater, you have a water heater sediment problem. There are a few causes of this problem, like using a water heater that is too old and using a water heater that has sediment buildup.

You can call a professional to have this cleaned up. Rusty water with bacteria can be dangerous to your home and health.

5. A Gurgling Sound

A gurgling sound in your water heater can be caused by several issues. It could be because there is a leak in your pipes, sedimentary build-up or a broken gas valve. Whatever it is, the water heater is being blocked, and the machine tries to put in more pressure to try and make it work.

Your water heater might end up overheating if you don’t get it fixed. Make sure to contact a professional and let them know about the gurgling sound so that they can address the issue.

Conclusion

Your water heater is what keeps your home going and the water in your home warm. If you don’t take it seriously, you might end up with a lot of issues. Some of these issues can create a lot of damage to your home. If you have any kind of issue with your water heater, take care of it as soon as you can by calling a professional.

If you need an HVAC repair service in Alabaster, AL, you can hire Mainline Heating and Air. Say goodbye to broken air conditioning or non-functional heating systems because we make sure to get it all fixed for you. Book our services today!

Things You Need to Consider Before Upgrading Your AC

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The winter and summer months in Alabama and the mid-Atlantic region can be extremely hot and humid, making it crucial to have a good air conditioning system running in the home. Not only do you have to keep your family safe, but you must keep the house cool. The right air conditioning can help everyone stay healthy and comfortable during the summer months and provide years of reliable service. If you’re looking to upgrade or replace уоur cooling system, there are many things you should keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best heating system for your home.

Don’t Skimp on the AC

When deciding between a standard-sized AC unit or an undersized unit, you should always invest in the bigger unit. The installation costs for an oversized system will be the same, so there’s no reason to have a unit that does not keep the house at a comfortable temperature.

Take Care of the System

When properly maintained, an air conditioning unit can last for ten years or more. It’s important to follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual. This will keep your air conditioner running efficiently and keep working when you need it most.

Units are Not All the Same

Do not choose the first AC unit that you come across at the store or online. You should always research the options and make sure the system you choose is the best one for your home. Most homes need a system with a SEER rating of at least 10. This will keep the уоur home cooler in the summer months and keep you from having to run the unit for very long.

Size Does Matter

The size of уоur AC unit matters more than you’d think. If a system is undersized, it won’t cool the home efficiently. Always choose a system that will cool the house while also maintaining a comfortable room temperature.

Get an Extended Warranty

There are many different manufacturers, so it’s crucial that уоu double-check the warranty when you buy a new system. Make sure the warranty is transferable between owners. This is the best way to ensure the warranty will still be in effect if you sell the house in the future.

Make Sure the Installer is Licensed

When you’re ready to install the AC unit, make sure you hire a licensed, reputable technician to do the work. Uncertified installers could mess up the installation and could соntribute to the system not working correctly. Make sure the technician will be available for repairs and maintenance if needed.

Have the Air Conditioning System Tested

The installation is only the first step in a process that will keep your family comfortable. Once the unit is installed, the technician should perform a thorough inspection and testing to ensure the unit will keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Have an AC Service Contract

Having a service contract will protect уоu from having to pay for repairs around the house. Contracts can be purchased at any time, but it’s best to have one from the beginning. This will give уоu piece of mind knowing the service technician will be available in the future.

Conclusion

Having a properly maintained AC unit will result in a better experience for your family and help you save money on your energy bill. When you are installing an air conditioning system, make sure you choose the right contractor and know the damage that can be done when hiring a less than reputable one.

It’s important to make sure that your heating and cooling system is always in good condition. That’s why Mainline Heating and Air is here to help. Our team is always on standby to serve you whenever you have problems with your heating and air conditioning units. If you need air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, feel free to contact our technicians at (205) 664-4751.

When Is the Best Time to Change Your HVAC Filters?

hvac

It’s a question most of us have asked ourselves at one time or another. “How often do I really need to change my HVAC filter?” Like changing your car’s oil, it’s a task you probably hate doing but know it’s critically necessary to keep your system running smoothly. Here are some things you need to know.

The Right Frequency of Changing Your HVAC Filters

For less expensive fiberglass filters, a general rule of thumb is to change them every 30 days. On the other hand, for those high-pleated filters, they should be changed every six months.

Changing your filters prolong not only the life of your HVAC system but also extends its efficiency. Filters need to be changed because they accumulate dust and dirt, which causes more dust and dirt to be pulled into the system rather than being filtered out. After a while, the inside of your home’s heating and cooling system can become clogged, making it work much harder to keep the temperature at the right level.

If you want to prevent dust and other particles from clogging up the filter and making your HVAC system run less efficiently, filter replacement is excellent.

The Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Your HVAC Filters

There are several factors that affect the need to replace your HVAC filter, including:

  • Usage Frequency

Those who use their HVAC equipment more frequently should change their filters. The longer you wait to change the filter, the more the dirt and dust have a chance to accumulate.  

  • Home Size

The size of your home and the square footage will also affect the need to change the filter. Those with larger homes with many rooms will need to change the filters more often than smaller homes.  

  • Indoor Air Quality

The indoor air quality will also dictate the time frame in which you will need to change the filter. If you suffer from allergies, a compromised immune system, or live in a home with a family member who smokes, you will want to change your filter more often. This is because the filter will become clogged with the particles within the air of specific allergens.  

How to Know If It’s Time to Change Your Filters

If you’re unsure if you should replace your filters, there are a couple of ways to tell.

  • Pets

Pets often come into contact with allergens, fleas, and other things which can be sucked directly into your HVAC system by the filter, and then released into your home’s air. Additionally, hair and pet dander, collected by the filter, can be stirred up by the fan and become airborne.

If you have a pet, you should change your HVAC filter every 30 days, or more often if it’s a dirtier season or you have pets that shed a lot of fur.

  • Children

When you have young children in your home, you want your house to have healthy air quality. Young children with underdeveloped immune systems and respiratory systems are more susceptible to airborne bacteria and viruses.

Keeping your air filter clean helps to prevent these things from becoming airborne. We recommend changing your HVAC filter every 30 days if you have children in your home.

  • Odors

If you notice your indoor air is smelling bad and you’re not sure why it could be that your HVAC filter needs to be changed. Change the filter, and see if the odor is still noticeable. 

The Bottomline

Now that you know how often you should change your HVAC filter, you’ll be able to keep your home’s air clean and comfortable. Not only will you be able to breathe easier, but your HVAC system will also be working more efficiently.

Get quality heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL here at Mainline Heating & Air. We have been in the industry since 1989. Since then, we have provided reliable heating and AC service and quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county areas. Get in touch with us today!

Top 7 Tips on Extending An HVAC System’s Lifespan

hvac

One of your main worries is probably extending the life of your HVAC system. And it should be because this is one of the most significant investments you’ll make for your home. Here are some of the top pointers on how to make your HVAC system last longer and where to find heating and AC service in Alabama: 

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

The best method to extend the life of your HVAC unit is to schedule annual or bi-annual maintenance. Your service professional will clean, inspect, and tune up your system.

Internal cleanliness is just as vital as external cleaning. It entails looking for trash, dampness, or shavings that should not be there. Your item’s connections, cables, and mechanisms will be thoroughly examined. A new filter, lubrication, condenser cleaning, and a check of the electrical system are all part of the tune-up phase of the maintenance.

If you don’t maintain your HVAC system properly, it’s more likely to break down due to little difficulties that grow into major problems. If the engine burns out due to a blocked filter that prevents air from flowing into the unit, you may need an immediate HVAC repair, or you’ll have to replace the entire system.

Make Use Of The Auto-Selection Feature

Your HVAC unit’s fan will likely have an “auto” and an “on” setting. The fan is only started when the system is actively heating or cooling the house when the “auto” option is selected. The “on” setting keeps the fan running, consuming more energy and putting more strain on your system. As a result, you should strive to save money by using the auto setting as much as possible.

Make The Switch To A Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats let you control your house’s temperature at specific times. You can set it to save energy or use it to access it from your phone or tablet. Changing the temperature depending on the number of people in the room will save energy and money. Consequently, you’ll save money on your utility costs, and your unit’s lifespan will be extended.

Use Alternative Heating and Cooling Techniques

Use ceiling fans in hot weather to relieve your HVAC system and add reflecting shades to keep the heat from entering your home. Set the thermostat to a higher setting to make your system work less to cool your home.

Put on a sweatshirt and open the blinds when it’s cool outside. Allow the sun to assist in the heating of your home. Reduce the load on your HVAC system by lowering the thermostat, wrapping oneself in a blanket, and adding space heaters to chilly rooms.

Keep An Eye On The Condenser

The HVAC system’s condenser unit is located outside of your home. As a result, it is vulnerable to damage from extreme weather and windblown debris.

Check it regularly and clear away any weeds or garbage. Tree roots and plants grown too close together might cause problems for the unit. Keep an eye on the landscape for proper drainage and rust or other noticeable damage.

Examine The Insulation In Your Home

By minimizing the need for your HVAC system to run constantly, adequate insulation can help it last longer. The attic is the most likely place for heat and air to escape. As a result, improving the insulation in this area will aid in lowering the quantity of heat and air produced by your HVAC unit. This can be aided by insulating the basement and providing more insulation to the walls.

Regularly Replace The Air Filter

A 30-day or 90-day filter can be used in your HVAC system. Whichever option you choose, inspect it frequently and replace it as needed. Many on the market will filter out a significant amount of dirt, pollen, and bacteria in the air. 

Follow the filter change schedule provided by the manufacturer. If you have pets, you should replace your filter more frequently. As a result, you’ll avoid having their fur and dander bother you.

Conclusion

These precautions will ensure that your HVAC system lasts as long as possible. Call for heating and air conditioning services in Alabaster, AL, if your system is due for service. The professionals will help you keep your HVAC system in good working order to last for years.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and air conditioning service and excellent products to consumers in Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby Counties. Our technicians are available to assist you starting at 7:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. till Monday through Friday are the days when you can get away. Call us for heating and air conditioning services in Alabaster, AL

Telltale Signs That Your Furnace is in Need of a Repair

furnace

The furnace is responsible for heating your home and making sure that it reaches a comfortable temperature for your family. The furnace circulates air throughout the house, brings cold air in from the outside, heats this air, and sends it to your vents.

Because a furnace is an integral part of your home, it is essential to stay on top of its monitoring and maintenance. It is not indestructible. Your furnace can need repair over the course of its lifetime, and these are some of the signs that you need professional help.

Here’s what you need to know:

Abnormal Smells From the Furnace

When you turn on the furnace, the air inside is circulating and takes the warm air from your vents and distributes it evenly throughout the house. But if you notice a strange smell coming from the vents, there could be an issue. You could have an accumulation of dust or debris, there may be a leak or a dirty filter causing the problem, or there could be a more significant problem such as a broken motor.

Gas Leaks

A gas leak from your furnace is dangerous, especially if it is a propane furnace. You can tell if there is a gas leak by smelling your vents. If you smell gas or notice a pink or smoky residue on your vents, it could be the warning sign of a serious malfunction. You should never ignore a gas leak; if you smell gas or see residue, shut off your furnace immediately and call a professional.

Excessive Noise

If you hear strange noises coming from your furnace, it could be a warning sign of something wrong. This might be a rocker switch or relay that needs to be replaced. Be alert to any strange noises coming from your furnace and call a professional immediately.

The Furnace is Not Heating Up

A furnace that is not heating your home to the desired temperature could signify a serious problem. If you notice that you are cold in your home and it is not the temperature outside, there could be a problem with your furnace. It is essential to keep your furnace regularly serviced to know if there is a problem.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your furnace, you must call a professional to give it a check.

Trouble Starting the Unit

If you start your furnace and it is taking a long time to turn on, it could be an issue with your thermostat. This can be an easy fix that you can do yourself with some troubleshooting steps. If the furnace starts to turn on but then shuts off after a few seconds, you have an issue that could be a problem with your motor, relay, or transformer. If the unit does not start, you need to call a professional immediately.

Rough Running and Abrupt Shut-Off

When your furnace starts and then shuts off, there may be an issue with your blower motor. If the fan seems to run too loud, it could be a sign of a problem. You might also notice that your blower seems to be running too fast. If so, you might need to get a cleaning and inspection of your furnace to see if you have a problem with a blower or motor.

The Bottom Line

The furnace is an integral part of your home, and you need to make sure that it is working correctly at all times. While it is true that sometimes things just happen and the unexpected can occur, most of the time, it is a sign of a larger problem that could have been avoided if you had taken the time to have your unit serviced.

If you are looking for reliable air conditioning, we can help you. Mainline Heating and Air provide dependable and high-quality furnace repair services and more. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. Our technicians are at your service from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact us today to get started or request an estimate online. 

8 Common Signs of HVAC Damage That Needs Servicing

hvac

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a large part in keeping your home comfortable. Maintaining it is essential, especially during Florida’s intense summer weather when it can keep the temperature from getting too hot. Here are five signs that your HVAC needs to be repaired so you can schedule service quickly and avoid major breakdowns.

1. Puddles and Condensation

One common sign of HVAC failure is the accumulation of puddles or condensation in areas not usually prone to it. Condensation is expected as your HVAC unit works to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. However, if you notice puddles forming in your kitchen or bathroom, you will want to schedule HVAC service as soon as possible.

2. Noise

One of the most common symptoms of a failing HVAC unit is loud noises from the unit itself or the ductwork. If you hear any strange noises that were not there previously, it is good to have your HVAC unit checked out by a professional.

3. Odors

Another sign of a future HVAC problem is the sudden onset of intense and unpleasant odors, such as ammonia or sewage. The longer you ignore these smells, the worse they are likely to become. If you can identify the source of the odor, it is important to schedule service as soon as possible before the problem gets worse.

4. Slow Air Movement

Your HVAC system should provide adequate airflow throughout your home, even during the hottest days of summer. But, if your system is struggling to keep up and is producing hot and stuffy air, it is time to schedule an HVAC service.

5. Uneven Temperature

Suppose you have an HVAC system designed to provide individualized temperature control. In that case, you will notice that your system will not distribute heat evenly throughout your entire home. But, if you notice that the temperature in one or more areas of your home is significantly different from the rest, it is a good idea to schedule an HVAC service.

6. Poor Air Quality

If you start noticing that air quality in your home has been worsening, it may indicate that your HVAC unit is beginning to fail. The presence of particles of dust and other pollutants in the air can make you feel sick, and it can be a sign that your HVAC needs repair.

7. Environmental Factors

Finally, if your HVAC system has suddenly started acting up, even though the only thing that has changed is the weather, you may need to schedule service. The weather can cause your HVAC unit to work harder than usual, which can cause your system to break down faster than it would at other times of the year.

8. Unexpected Shutdowns

If your HVAC system seems to be operating normally and then suddenly shuts down, the problem could likely be a simple one, such as a dirty air filter. If you think this is the case, you can try cleaning it on your own before scheduling an HVAC service. However, if the unit shuts off unexpectedly a second time, you will want to schedule service as soon as possible.

Conclusion

If you notice that your HVAC system starts struggling during one season, you may want to schedule service as soon as possible to avoid problems during the worst weather. If you notice any of these signs of a failing HVAC system, scheduling service with a professional from service experts is good.

Mainline Heating and Air has provided dependable heating and ac service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area since 1989. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. Our technicians are at your service from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. For emergency heating and AC service on weekends or evenings, just call (205) 664-4751. 

5 Reasons You Should Never DIY Your Air Conditioner Installation

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If the air conditioner in your home is not working as well as it should, you may already be considering getting a new HVAC system. 

Naturally, you want to be able to save as much money as you can. DIYing may be one of the first things you might think of doing. Perhaps you have seen a video or two of someone installing their own air conditioner and thought it’s not that hard. 

However, you must know that it’s not recommended that you handle your air conditioner installation unless you’re an experienced HVAC pro. 

Here, Mainline Heating and Air some drawbacks of DIYing your air conditioner installation: 

1. You Can’t Ensure Safety

When you install your air conditioner, you are taking the risk of being electrocuted and putting yourself and your family at risk.

When you decide to DIY, you’ll deal with live electrical wires. An HVAC system is an electrical device. You’ll be handling gas lines, water lines, and refrigerant lines. If any of these lines are damaged as you install your HVAC, you and your family may be in danger. In fact, while installing your own air conditioner, you may damage the unit. The last thing you want is a malfunctioning air conditioner. 

2. It’s Not Worth the Savings

When you DIY and the job doesn’t turn out right, you’ll have to go through the trouble and expense of hiring someone to fix the problem. 

3. The Warranty May Be Voided

You might want to consider what your warranty will be like if you DIY. You may not even know about this, but many manufacturers will void the warranty if you install your own unit. 

Unless you’re an experienced HVAC pro, you are more likely to make mistakes and be the cause of the failed air conditioner. Even if you do everything right, you might not get the perfect seal. This may allow air to leak out and cause air conditioner failure.

Not only that, if you mess up a big section of your HVAC system, you may be responsible for paying for the damage. If a refrigerant leak occurs, you may be responsible for paying for a full replacement.

4. DIY Is too Time-Consuming

If you have never installed an HVAC before, it can be time-consuming and exhausting. 

You will have to spend time at the local hardware store looking for the right materials, dismantle the old air conditioner, reinstall it and be ready for the electrical wiring.

After all of that, when you turn on the air conditioner, you might find that there are problems that need to be fixed.

Having Your Air Conditioner Installed Professionally Eliminates All These Problems

In general, the installation of an air conditioner should be done by a professional. Hiring a professional HVAC installation company can get your air conditioner installed in a matter of hours. It’s convenient, it’s safe, and it’s the best way to make sure that you have a functioning air conditioner without any problems.

Conclusion

When you hire a professional to install your air conditioner or to perform any air conditioning service, you can be sure that the job will be done right and that it will be working as soon as possible. Hiring a professional can save you time and money.

Professional contractors have the materials they need to have the same quality of work. They have the training and equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently.

In the end, you’ll have a clean, working air conditioner and you won’t be risking your home and your family’s safety.

Mainline Heating and Air offers air conditioning services, including AC installation in Alabaster, AL. Contact us today for all your HVAC needs!