Category: Blog

If you think about it, there’s no such thing as a furnace problem that you’re glad to have. All of them are stressful, so your best bet is to get them fixed as soon as possible. Regardless of the season or the weather, you need to have your furnace looked at by a technician to assess what’s the source of the issue. Here are some signs that could help you catch your furnace’s problem before it escalates.

1. Yellow Flames in Your Furnace

The pilot light is one of the most important sources of heat in a furnace. It heats up the burner, which in turn heats up the air that’s then circulated inside your home via the ducts. Even when the furnace is turned off, the pilot light should be on. It should always produce blue or bright yellow flames.

However, if the pilot light produces yellow flames with an orange tint, that’s a sign that the fuel is dirty. If the flame is too small, it’s a sign that the furnace is not receiving enough oxygen. This usually happens when the furnace is not being used regularly.

These are actually signs of a larger issue, so you should have a furnace repair company look at the system right away.

2. A Loud Humming Sound

If the furnace makes a loud hum, even when it has just been turned on, there’s possibly a problem with the motor. Usually, this hum is caused by an accumulation of dirt and dust inside the motor.

The good news is that it could be fixed with a simple cleaning of the motor. To do this, you need to first unplug the furnace’s power cord and let it cool down. After that, you have to take a vacuum cleaner and clean out all the particles from the motor.

3. You’re Having Trouble Getting the Furnace Started

For a lot of homeowners, the furnace is a big question mark. They’re usually not sure how to get it started. The problem is that many furnaces have different functions and you need to know about them to be able to operate them properly.

For instance, you should avoid starting the furnace in the ‘auto’ mode during the summer. This is because the furnace in auto mode tries to match the temperature inside your house with the outside temperature, which is not the best setting if you’re not home.

4. Unbearable Odor

There’s no denying that an odor from the furnace is one sign that it’s not running properly. However, knowing the source of the smell is also helpful.

If the furnace is making a burning smell, it’s possible that it’s burning off dust or other deposits that have accumulated on the exhaust pipe. If the smell is like gas, it’s a sure sign that the gas valve is dirty or cracked. This can cause several issues.

5. The Fan Won’t Shut Off

If the fan won’t shut off, it means that it’s stuck in the ‘on’ mode. This is a serious issue, especially if it’s been left on for several hours. The fan continues to blow hot air, and it will not stop until you manually shut it off.

The problem is that you need to set the temperature of the furnace before you turn it on. Otherwise, the furnace will try to match the temperature in the house, and it could reach extremely high temperatures, which is dangerous.

Conclusion

To help you get the most out of your HVAC system, it’s important to understand how the furnace works. If you’re not sure about any of the signs mentioned in this article, you should immediately contact a furnace repair technician.

For any HVAC or furnace-related problems, Mainline Heating and Air is always on standby to serve you. 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. For emergency furnace repair, call our technicians at (205) 664-4751.

A small air conditioner will struggle to keep a space at appropriate temperatures. A model that is too large can chill a room too rapidly without removing enough humidity, leaving you uncomfortable and clammy.

Finding the proper air conditioner size is critical since each home is unique, and the size of your central air conditioner will be determined by variables other than the size of your house. These elements include the kind of roof, the height of the ceiling, the number of windows, the type of insulation, the heat transmission of the walls, etc. Typically, the size indicated in the manufacturer’s specifications does not take these aspects into account and may thus be wrong.

Choose wisely, and you’ll feel great—and save money, too. Consumer Reports puts air conditioners through their paces in rooms the same size as the ones they’re supposed to cool. This makes it easy to choose the ideal model for your requirements.

What Size Air Conditioner Do You Need?

Every room in the house has a distinct purpose. This means that the temperature in each room varies. Furthermore, persons who use those rooms have varying expectations of how cool the space should be.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms tend to be small, usually no more than 100 to 200 square feet. This reduces cooling needs. At the same time, people sleeping in the room need a reliable cooling system for better sleep.

For small- or medium-size bedrooms, use a window unit A/C in the 5,000, 6,000, or 7,500 BTU category.

Home Offices

Home offices are typically small, but they use more air conditioning than a typical bedroom. A typical home office is 100 to 200 square feet. While you don’t want to be cold, you also don’t want to wake up the whole house with the blower running. A unit in the 5,000 to 7,500 BTU category is ideal.

Living Rooms

Living rooms are the hubs of activity in the home. This is where we watch TV, hang out with friends, and play games. They are typically 400 to 600 square feet. If you have guests over, crank it up and go with a larger model. Otherwise, a 7,500 to 12,000 BTU unit will work well.

Kitchen and Dining Room

Kitchens and dining rooms are typically larger than living rooms at 600 to 700 square feet. Many people enjoy spending time here, but it can get hot when the stove is on. Large windows and ceiling fans help make this room comfortable. A window unit AC in the 5,000 to 9,000 BTU category is ideal.

AC Money-Saving Tips

Newer versions are less expensive to operate due to stricter government energy regulations for window air conditioners. Look for a unit with an Energy Star designation and an EER of 10 or above. Your operational expenses will be lower if your EER is greater. Every model in CR’s air conditioner ratings has an EER of 10 or above.

Keeping your air conditioner in good working order might also help you save money. Look for a model with an easy-to-remove filter for frequent cleaning. An air conditioner that has a filthy filter has to work harder.

Many air conditioners include a timer that may be set to chill a room before you arrive home. Some even offer a smartphone app that you may use if you forget to do it before you leave the house.

Conclusion

Window air conditioners have come a long way over the years, and many people find them to be a good fit for their home cooling needs. After all, they are the most affordable option.

With the information above, you should find the best window air conditioner for your needs. Just follow our simple buying guide, and you’ll be cool in no time.

Mainline Heating and Air has been providing reliable heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, and surrounding areas since 1989. We offer top-notch HVAC products like air conditioners and handlers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, heat pumps and gas furnaces, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, and filtering systems. Call us now to request an estimate. 

The gas furnace plays an integral part in your home. It provides you with heat during the colder seasons, all while helping you save money on heating bills. 

With that said, gas furnaces are not infallible. They experience wear and tear and even age with time. It’s best if you keep a close eye on your gas furnace to ensure it operates efficiently at all times.

Here are three signs to help you determine if your gas furnace needs repairs or maintenance. 

1. The Gas Furnace Makes Weird Noises

Many people have this misconception that if they hear weird noises coming from their furnace, it’s likely a sign of problems. In reality, that’s not always the case.

You see, your gas furnace will emit sounds as it operates. It’s completely common for your gas furnace to make various noises, including hissing, clicking, and more. As long as it’s not excessively loud, you don’t have to worry about it.

However, if you hear a strange, loud noise coming from your furnace, that’s a sign that it may need repairs. These sounds include a humming sound, a grinding noise, a clicking sound, etc. 

As a general rule of thumb, if the noise coming from your gas furnace is an extreme deviation from the sounds that it usually makes, it’s likely a sign of a problem.

2. Your Home has a Musty Smell

When it comes to gas furnaces, you may notice a strong, musty smell in your home.

In fact, some people refer to it as the smell of a rotten egg. If you notice this stench, you might want to take a look at your gas furnace.

In most cases, the smell results from the buildup of corrosion inside the heating unit. In other words, the odor comes from the breakdown of the metal components inside your furnace. 

It may lead to compromised safety. The next time you smell it, you should contact a professional to look at it and provide furnace repair. 

3. There Are Frequent Gas Shut-Offs

Another sign that may prove that you need to schedule furnace repair or maintenance is frequent gas shut-offs.

When your furnace needs repairs, it may shut off unexpectedly. This event can result in not having enough heat or hot water for long periods.

When this happens, it’s a clear sign that your gas furnace needs some TLC. You can take a look at it yourself, but it’s much better to rely on a professional in this case.

An expert can diagnose your gas furnace and perform the repairs needed. If you notice frequent gas shut-offs, encourage your family to stay warm with clothing and blankets until the repairs reach completion. 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are various signs that can help you determine if the gas furnace in your home needs repairs or maintenance. If you notice that your furnace is emitting weird sounds, you smell a musty odor coming from the unit, or you experience frequent gas shut-offs, call an expert right away.

The professionals at Mainline Heating & Air can provide furnace repair in Alabaster and surrounding areas. Our team has years of experience in the field, working to ensure that your furnace is always running efficiently. If you think you need furnace repairs, contact us right away.

A heat pump is an efficient way to warm up the home in the cold weather months. It uses electricity to exchange heat from one location to another. Heat pumps are used to replace or supplement conventional heating or cooling equipment such as furnaces and air conditioners. If you have one at home or in your commercial place, you should know that they should be serviced and maintained regularly.

Here are the things you should do:

• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

As with all other products, you must follow the included manufacturer’s instructions when purchasing a heat pump. Doing so helps in many ways, including extending the unit’s life, reducing the risk of the unit failing, and increasing the unit’s efficiency.

• Keep the Inside and Outside Coils Clean

The outside coil is the one in direct contact with the air. Because of this, it should be kept clean and free of dirt and debris such as leaves and grass clippings. The outside coil should also be kept clean regularly to help avoid a buildup of dirt.

The same is true for the inside coil. The inside coil is the one that is sealed and can’t be cleaned. Because of this, it should be kept free of dirt, debris, and moisture. Also, ensure that the unit is vented correctly and unobstructed to help prevent the inside coil from becoming blocked by excess moisture.

• Turn Off and Clean Your Fan

The fan motor is in charge of moving the air through the heat pump. It should be turned off and thoroughly cleaned regularly as well. The fan motor should also be cleaned before the start of the heating or cooling session.

Why Get Annual Professional Cleaning?

Heat pumps don’t require much maintenance, but they must be properly and regularly assessed to keep them in good running condition. The annual professional cleaning is the most crucial part of ensuring your heat pump works properly.

Different types of heat pumps have different types of maintenance procedures as well. You have to consult the manufacturer’s manual to know what heat pump you have and how to care for it.

Keeping your heat pump in excellent condition is necessary for your comfort and safety. If you feel uncomfortable with your heat pump, you should contact a professional HVAC professional for assistance.

Here are some of the things they usually do in their visit:

• Test Your Pump’s Refrigerant: They will test your refrigerator’s parts and will check if they’re in good shape, in good condition, and that they work correctly. The professional will also measure the refrigerant level to ensure they’re in the proper range.
• Provide General Maintenance: Securing loose fittings and ensuring the unit is airtight. The HVAC professional will also inspect the outdoor and indoor coils for dust, blockage, leaks, obstructions, and any malfunctioning according to the manufacturer’s specifications. When they believe that there is a leak or the unit is malfunctioning, they will service the unit and make sure it is working properly.
• Inspect the Evaporator Coil: The professional will check the inside part of your unit to see if there is any blockage, debris, or moisture. They will check the fan motor, blower, and blower wheel. They will also check the wiring and electrical connection.
• Confirm the Thermostat’s Operation – The HVAC professional will check your thermostat and make sure it’s in good condition and working correctly according to your settings.

Conclusion

Heat pumps have many benefits that can help you save money, but to enjoy these benefits, you have to take care of your heat pump on a regular basis. The more you take care of your heat pump, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy using it, and the more savings you’ll make in the long run.

If you need a heating and air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, Mainline Heating and Air is here to serve you. We have been providing dependable heating and AC services in the area since 1989. We also offer emergency services. Contact us today to schedule a booking.

Homeowners typically don’t have to replace the coolant in their air conditioning units because most units incorporate a closed-loop system. If there are no major accidents or malfunctions, the coolant should last the life of the unit. However, sometimes your AC will break down. If your air conditioning system develops a leak or experiences some other system failure, you may need to replace the coolant. Now, you may be wondering what to do if you are ever in this situation. To help you out, here’s everything you need to know about AC coolant leaks.

What Are the Signs That Your AC May Have a Coolant Leak?

The most obvious sign that your AC isn’t cooling your home well is that it begins to leak coolant. If you notice that your HVAC unit stops cooling your home effectively, or that you can feel warm air blowing through your vents, you should inspect it for leaks. Other symptoms of a coolant leak are water seeping from the vents or excess moisture on the outside of the unit.

The HVAC system, which includes metal components such as the copper tube walls, is used to control the temperature. As the components become corroded, they begin to break down, causing holes and splitting along the seams. When this happens, the refrigerant that controls the air circulation leaks out.

What Should You Do Before You Call a Technician?

When your air conditioner is no longer cooling your home, especially when the weather is hot, you’ll have to have it fixed as soon as possible. Before you call a technician, you can try to address the issue on your own. Check whether your AC needs to be cleaned. An AC doesn’t work as well when it has a lot of dirt or leaves blocking the airflow.

When Should You Call a Technician?

If your air conditioner still isn’t cooling your home well, it’s time to call a professional technician to check the system. Problems with the air conditioner may just be easy to fix if you have the unit cleaned.

You can opt to clean the condenser unit yourself, but this is not a task to be taken lightly. The condenser uses metal blades or fins to push air around. It quickly picks up dead grass, dust, and dirt. Dirt blocks the flow of air and reduces the unit’s cooling ability. To clean it, you can use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove the dirt without damaging the fins.

If you’re uncomfortable cleaning this part of your air-conditioning unit, you can always pay for a professional to do it for you. Remember, if you clean a unit yourself, you could potentially do more damage than good. This is why it may be best to ask a technician to do it for you.

Conclusion

We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you deal with any AC coolant leak issues. While it may seem intimidating, you will be able to deal with this problem with ease as long as you know what you’re doing. Be sure to keep everything that we’ve discussed here in mind so that you can deal with AC coolant leaks effectively.

If you are looking for reliable AC repairs, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. Our high-quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For more information, check out the rest of our website!

Your heat pump is the throbbing heart of your heating system in your house or office. It performs so well that we take it for granted most of the time. We only think about it when something goes wrong. However, when this happens, it might result in a complicated and costly repair. 

Most of the time, we can call in professionals to handle minor issues before they become major and detrimental to your business or personal life.

Knowing the early warning signs that you may require heat pump repair can save you a lot of time, pain and money, and in the long run.

Here are the six ways to determine if your heat pump needs repair:

1. Using More Electricity Than Usual

If you notice that your unit is using more electricity than usual, this could signify that something’s not right. If this has happened a few times, it could be due to a problem with the system, and it would be advisable to seek the assistance of a professional.

2. Low Cooling

If your system fails to provide adequate cooling, it could be a sign of a problem with your unit. If this is the case, it’s worth noting that this isn’t an isolated incident. If it has happened very frequently, then it is possible that the unit hasn’t been adequately maintained and requires a full assessment by the manufacturer.

3. Not Hot Enough

If your heat pump is not hot enough, it might be due to many different things. There could be a problem with the thermostat. It is also possible that the pump is frozen due to the cold or the reversing valve is broken. It is always best to have your heat pump inspected when it’s not heating enough. 

4. Running at the Wrong Setting

If your heat pump is running at a higher or lower setting than it should, it may be indicative that there might be something wrong with your unit. While this may not necessarily require a full-blown repair, it could still mean a serious problem.

5. Not Turning on at the Correct Setting

Most heat pumps have several heat settings, each with a slightly different efficiency rating and running cost. If your heat pump isn’t turning on at the right setting, then you could be facing a severe problem.

6. Not Turning on at All

If your heat pump isn’t turning on at all, you’ll quickly know something is wrong. If this happens, it may be worth double-checking that there is power supply and testing for a blown fuse/circuit breaker. If everything looks all right, it might be time to call in the professionals to assess the situation.

Conclusion

Heat pumps are our primary source of heating in the colder months. However, if they stop working properly, it can be very disruptive. If you think your heat pump is running at full capacity, it’s worth checking for signs of malfunction. Catching these issues early can help you prevent them from becoming a bigger problem.

Mainline Heating and Air has been providing reliable heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, and surrounding areas since 1989. We offer top-notch HVAC products like air conditioners and handlers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, heat pumps and gas furnaces, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, and filtering systems. Call us now to request an estimate. 

Pollution is bad for our health and even our skin. So, most of the time, we prefer to stay at home away from all the dust particles the road offers. However, how sure are you that your home air is safe?

The truth is, your home air can be just as polluted as it is outside. But, don’t worry! We have got you covered with our tips on reducing the pollution inside your home.

1. Regularly Change Air Filters in Appliances

The most important tip for your home is regularly changing the air filters in your appliances. For example, change the air filters in your air conditioners, fan, and heaters at the beginning of every season. If you notice the filters are clogged, change them immediately.

2. Clean Your Carpets

The carpets in your house continue to collect dust and other impurities, even if they are vacuumed. The best way to clean your carpets is to call a professional carpet cleaner. They have the right supplies and equipment to get rid of all the dust and grime accumulated inside your carpets.

3. Clean Your Furnace

Commonly, your furnace is the main culprit of indoor air pollution. This is because it houses all the furnace’s filth, which is hard to get rid of. Having your furnace cleaned regularly can lower your chances of contracting an airborne disease.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

Your home will become humid during the hot season, and the humidity can cause mold. With the use of a dehumidifier, you can easily control the moisture and get your home and your family healthy again.

5. Inspect Your Air Ducts

If you have HVAC systems in your home, you need to inspect your ducts. You can call a professional to do this task or do it yourself. This is a crucial step in either case, as regular duct inspection and maintenance can prevent you from breathing in many air impurities.

6. Install Kitchen Vents

The kitchen is one of the dirtiest areas in your house as you are cooking food all the time. Installing vents in your kitchen is a great way to get the impurities out of your home. However, you need to ensure that the vents are functioning correctly.

7. Buy Indoor Plants

Plants are one of the most efficient natural air filters. They are known to detoxify your house and stop dust mites. So, it will be a good idea if you buy some indoor plants and they can work to clean your home.

8. Avoid Scented Candles

Candles are a popular home décor item. However, scented candles are also a source of indoor air pollution. The scented candles release toxins that are not good for your health. So, even if you enjoy the ambiance that scented candles provide, it’s best to keep them out of your house.

Conclusion

With these tips, you can be assured that the air inside your home stays clean. So, you can easily enjoy your time at home without worrying about the indoor air quality. It’s your job to ensure that your home is clean and healthy.

Mainline Heating and Air is a heating and AC service company, providing quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby. We also offer HVAC repair services to ensure that you have the best air quality at home. Get in touch with us for more information.

A Daikin air conditioner is a high-efficiency air conditioning system that helps your home stay comfortable and provides a consistent temperature to match your individual needs and comfort. Depending on which Daikin system you choose, you will have energy efficiency and comfort for years to come.

Now, one thing that makes their ac systems so popular is their inverter technology. Today, let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.

Here’s what you need to know:

What is Inverter Technology?

Inverter Technology is a great way to have the best of both worlds. It allows you to get the same excellent efficiency as their standard technology, but with the added benefit of more precise, reliable, and consistent temperature control. Moreover, because it’s designed to provide better control, inverter systems will help you stay comfortable more easily and effectively.

Daikin’s inverter technology is a little more efficient than regular air conditioners. The inverter technology uses a technology that changes input voltage to output voltage. This offers higher efficiency than other air conditioners, and it keeps your home cool with less energy—keeping your energy costs low.

How Does Daikin’s Inverter Technology Work?

Daikin’s inverter technology works without complicated computer systems or sensitive controls. Instead, the inverter easily knits together the different parts of the air conditioner to provide you with comfort without all of the noise or components.

The unit takes in outside air and cools it as it moves through the air conditioner’s coils. It uses this cooled air to remove heat from home through the vents. It then recirculates the cooled air through the house. That’s it! The inverter technology uses a very simple system, but it provides you with the cool, comfortable air you want while reducing energy use.

Other Benefits of a Good Inverter

Daikin’s inverter technology is a good option for those who want to save energy and money. But, it also has other benefits as well.

For example, you won’t hear the whir of the inverter technology. Instead, you’ll hear a gentle sound that’s easy on the ears. This is because inverter technology is a little quieter than traditional air conditioners. 

It’s also a little lighter, meaning the unit itself won’t take up as much space in your home. And the inverter technology uses a much simpler rotary compressor. This is one of the reasons it’s quieter and lighter. This also means that it has a better lifespan and fewer breakdowns.

Another benefit of the inverter technology is that it’s a little easier to install. This is because inverter technology works with a simple rotary compress instead of a normal scroll compressor. 

The Difference a Good Inverter Makes

You should do it whenever you can save energy and protect the environment. But, when you can save energy, protect the environment, AND stay comfortable, you can’t pass that up. With Daikin’s inverter technology, you can stay comfortable without a lot of noise or even extra power bills.

It’s important to note that inverter technology is not a new technology. It’s simply Daikin’s way of improving a classic and efficient air conditioner.

Conclusion

Inverter technology is one of the things that has made Daikin air conditioners so popular, reliable, and easy to install. If you want to learn about other things that make Daikin air conditioners so great, check out our other guide to their technology.

If you are looking for reliable air conditioning, we can help you. Mainline Heating and Air provide dependable and high-quality air conditioning services. 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. 

A furnace is a must-have for any home, primarily because it will be extensively used during the winter months. While it produces heat, it’s not always perfect because it can experience problems now and then. One such example is when it produces smells that it shouldn’t.

There are many reasons why a furnace would produce smells out of the ordinary. Sometimes the smell is simply a result of the heating system used in the home. More often than not, the scent results from a problem with the furnace that needs to be addressed. Regardless, it shouldn’t be producing any smell at all, and you should get it fixed as soon as possible.

This article lists some of the most common smells that a furnace shouldn’t produce and what you can do to fix them. Read on below to get started.

#1 – Smoke

There’s a good chance that you will be able to detect a small amount of smoke if it’s coming from your furnace. Smells like this are not something you should be looking for in any case.

Depending on the cause of the smoke, the problem may be easily fixed by changing the filters and ensuring that all soot is cleaned from the gas burner, flame tube, and heat exchanger. On the other hand, if the cause of the smoke is a result of a failed motor, you should call in a professional to fix it.

#2 – Burning Dust

If you’re smelling something that feels like burning dust, it’s usually a result of overheating. This can be because of a faulty motor or perhaps a clogged filter.

The easiest way to rectify this is to get the air filter cleaned. Still, you also need to check your furnace to ensure that dust is not being sucked into it.

#3 – Rotten Eggs

The smell of rotten eggs is usually a result of gases being released from the gas burner. This smell commonly happens when the gas valve is turned off, but it shouldn’t be a problem in the first place.

The smell can be fixed by checking the gas valve and burner assembly. If the problem persists, you should call a professional.

#4 – Foul Sewage

Many factors can cause a foul sewage smell or something similar to it. It can result from a blocked drain line, a problem with the pump, a broken gas safety shutoff, a clogged filter, and many more.

The smell can be fixed by cleaning the drain line in most cases. On the other hand, if the smell persists and the problem is not something as simple as a clogged drain, you should call a technician to fix the problem.

#5 – Your Pet’s Smell

If you have an animal at home that’s shedding hair, this can contribute to the smell of your home. Some people also keep pets in areas where the furnace is kept. If that’s the case, there may be a chance that the smell is coming from your pet.

If you have noticed your pet’s smell coming from your furnace, you should remove the pet from the area. You should also clean the filter and ensure that the motor is free of dust. You may also consider switching to an air purifier if the problem persists. The purifier will help remove the pet’s hair from the air.

#6 – Mold

Mold is a problem that needs to be addressed quickly. The smell it produces is one of the first signs of mold growth. Even though you may not see the mold, it’s a good idea to call a professional to inspect the heating system and make sure that mold isn’t growing anywhere in it.

The mold may be growing on the vent or in the ducts. More often than not, the mold results from the heating system being kept in an area that’s too moist. You should ensure that the area stays dry to avoid mold growth.

#7 – Scent of Metal

If there’s a scent of metal coming from your furnace, there’s likely a problem with your motor. A bad motor can cause this problem. If it’s not, it could be caused by something else.

The problem with a bad motor is that it can cause an overload and burn out. A refrigerant leak can cause this. The smell of the burning refrigerant can cause a burning smell. In this case, it’s recommended that you call a professional to fix the problem for you.

#8 – Chemicals

If you notice a chemical smell coming from your furnace, it can be caused by gas. The scent can be easily detected because cracks and pops usually accompany it. The scent can also be detected if you hear a knocking noise.

The smell is usually a result of a gas leak in the system or a clogged orifice. To fix the problem, you should open up the furnace. If there’s a leak, you should resolve the problem by replacing the faulty parts.

Conclusion

The smell coming from the heating system of your home can be quite off-putting, especially if it’s not something you’re used to. It’s recommended that you take care of the problem as soon as possible. If you’re not able to identify the source of the smell, you should call a professional.

Mainline Heating and Air provides top-quality services for heating and cooling repair in Alabaster, AL. Our team of experienced professionals can fix any problem your HVAC system could have, all for an affordable price. Contact us today to learn more!

Air conditioning units are designed to keep the air cool, clean, and circulating indoors. These units offer relief for many, but they can cause frequent sore throats in some individuals. 

While there are multiple causes of sore throat, including allergies and the flu, a poor-functioning AC unit is likely low on the list. Nevertheless, these complaints are common in allergy sufferers and chronic respiratory disorders.

Here are the possible reasons you’re getting a sore throat from your air conditioning:

1. The Air Filter Isn’t Working

One of the most common causes of a sore throat from AC is a dirty filter. The filter can collect dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants by not being cleaned. This can cause irritation, dryness, and soreness in the throat.

The filter should be cleaned and replaced at least every three months, and if you have any other respiratory conditions, you should do this more often.

2. The Air Conditioning Unit is Dirty

A dirty air conditioning unit can cause many illnesses, and sore throats are one. The unit should be cleaned and maintained every three to six months. If you have frequent sore throats, it might be worth considering a new AC unit.

3. You’re Allergic to the Cooling Unit

A few different materials are used to make air conditioning units, including metal, plastic, and fiberglass. If you’re allergy sensitive, you may be allergic to one of these materials. Not all air conditioning units will have this in the same place, but metal’s most common culprit.

If you know you’re allergic to metal, consider choosing a plastic or fiberglass AC unit. If you’re not sure, consider switching to an air filtration system that can filter these allergens out of the air.

4. The Air Conditioner is Too Close to Your Bedroom

If you are suffering from frequent sore throats, consider moving your AC unit to another room. The AC is pumping out cool air that can lower temperatures in the room, and this air must travel through the ducts to reach your room. 

If the AC is placed too near your bed, this can cause the cold air to make its way into your room and make your throat sore.

5. There’s Something in Your HVAC System

If you’ve recently gotten a new pet or if you’re a smoker, you may have something in your HVAC system that’s aggravating your throat. The filters may be dirty, and the system may need to be cleaned and replaced to keep the itching and the sore throat away.

6. You’re Using a Fan

While fans can be an excellent steaming tool, they can also be an annoying sore throat sufferer. You can quickly get a sore throat from a fan if it’s blowing directly on your throat, causing irritation and soreness.

7. The Temperature is Too Cold

One of the most common complaints of people with a sore throat is the need for the room to be warmer. You may be getting a sore throat from the air conditioning if your room is too cold. Turn the temperature up and see if that helps.

Conclusion

So, you’re getting a sore throat from your air conditioning. Before you call the company to complain, consider these possibilities to help you determine why your throat is getting sore. Once you know the cause and how you can fix it, you’ll be able to enjoy your AC without getting a sore throat.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and AC service and quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area. Our quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For emergency heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, just call (205) 664-4751.