In our pursuit of healthier living environments, the cleanliness of indoor air often takes precedence. Yet, amidst this endeavor, the significance of air duct cleaning tends to be overlooked. What exactly is air duct cleaning, and why is it crucial? Let's delve into this essential practice, exploring its importance, benefits, and the professional process involved.
Defining Air Duct Cleaning
Air duct cleaning is a meticulous process aimed at eliminating dust, debris, allergens, and contaminants from the various components of a home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This encompasses cleansing the air ducts themselves, along with other integral parts such as registers, grilles, and diffusers.
The primary objective of air duct cleaning lies in enhancing indoor air quality by eradicating the accumulation of particles within the ductwork. Over time, these contaminants can circulate through the HVAC system, potentially leading to health concerns and diminished system efficiency.
Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning
Cleaner air ducts yield several notable advantages:

1. Healthier Indoor Air: By minimizing the circulation of dust, allergens, and pollutants, clean air ducts contribute to healthier indoor air. This reduction in airborne contaminants helps mitigate respiratory issues and allergies, fostering a safer and more comfortable living environment for occupants.
2. Improved HVAC Efficiency: Regular air duct cleaning enhances the overall efficiency of the HVAC system. A cleaner system operates more efficiently, resulting in reduced energy consumption, lower utility bills, and an extended lifespan for the equipment.
3. Odor Reduction: Air duct cleaning can effectively diminish unpleasant odors stemming from mold, mildew, and trapped contaminants within the HVAC system. This eliminates lingering odors, ensuring a fresher and more inviting indoor atmosphere.
4. Allergy and Asthma Relief: Clean air ducts play a pivotal role in alleviating symptoms for individuals with allergies or asthma. By reducing allergens and pollutants, air duct cleaning may significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions.

Professional Air Duct Cleaning Process
When engaging professional services for air duct cleaning, the process typically entails the following steps:

1. Inspection: A comprehensive assessment of the HVAC system is conducted to identify potential blockages, infestations, and areas requiring attention.
2. Preparation: Protective measures are implemented to safeguard furnishings and flooring from dust and debris during the cleaning process.
3. Cleaning: Specialized equipment, including high-powered vacuums, brushes, and agitation devices, is utilized to thoroughly cleanse the air ducts, ensuring the removal of accumulated contaminants.
4. Sanitization: Following cleaning, sanitizers are applied to inhibit microbial growth within the HVAC system, promoting long-term cleanliness and hygiene.
5. Final Inspection: A final assessment is performed to confirm the efficacy of the cleaning process and ensure optimal operation of the HVAC system.

In essence, air duct cleaning plays a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality, enhancing HVAC efficiency, and fostering a healthier living environment. By prioritizing this essential practice, homeowners can enjoy cleaner, fresher air and reap the associated benefits for years to come.

The cost of HVAC replacement can vary significantly based on Energy Efficiency HVAC: Simultaneous AC and Furnace Replacement
Is your HVAC system failing to keep your home comfortable year-round? While it may be tempting to replace only the malfunctioning unit, opting for simultaneous AC and furnace replacement could offer significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency and long-term cost savings. Discover the advantages and potential drawbacks of this approach to help you make an informed decision for your home and budget.
The Benefits of Coordinated HVAC Replacement
Investing in both a new furnace and air conditioning system concurrently can result in a host of advantages:

1. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Modern heating and cooling systems boast higher efficiency levels compared to older models, translating to reduced energy consumption and lower operating costs. By upgrading both units simultaneously, homeowners can capitalize on advancements in technology to achieve optimal efficiency.
2. Extended Lifespan: Pairing a new system with an older, inefficient unit can compromise the performance and longevity of the former. By replacing both components simultaneously, homeowners ensure that both systems operate at peak efficiency, maximizing their lifespan and minimizing the risk of premature failure.
3. Warranty Protection: Manufacturers may void warranties for new systems if they are combined with older units. Installing matched HVAC systems simultaneously ensures comprehensive warranty coverage, providing peace of mind in the event of any unforeseen issues.
4. Synergistic Operation: Furnace and AC systems share the same air handler, or blower, necessitating compatibility for optimal performance. Coordinated replacement ensures that both units complement each other seamlessly, resulting in consistent home comfort.
5. Long-term Cost Savings: While the upfront cost of replacing both systems simultaneously may seem daunting, homeowners stand to save money over time. Matched systems operate more efficiently, reducing energy bills and minimizing repair costs. Additionally, installation expenses may be lower when both units are replaced together, compared to separate installations at different times.

Considerations Against Simultaneous Replacement
Despite the compelling advantages of coordinated AC and furnace replacement, there are instances where this approach may not be feasible or practical:
Relatively New and Functional Systems: If your existing furnace and air factors such as system size, efficiency ratings, and installation requirements. On average, a new furnace ranges from $2,600 to $6,400, while a new AC unit costs between $3,800 to $7,500. Coordinating both replacements typically averages $7,500, with total costs ranging from $5,000 to $12,500. Homeowners may capitalize on potential savings by bundling both installations and taking advantage of promotional deals offered by contractors.
In conclusion, while simultaneous AC and furnace replacement offers numerous benefits in terms of efficiency, performance, and long-term savings, it's essential to weigh these advantages against individual circumstances and budgetary considerations. By carefully evaluating your HVAC needs and consulting with reputable HVAC professionals, you can make an informed decision that enhances comfort and efficiency in your home for years to come.

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Creating a healthy haven for your family begins with ensuring clean, breathable air within your home. Discover effective strategies for monitoring and enhancing your indoor air quality with our comprehensive checklist. From identifying potential pollutants to implementing DIY solutions, take charge of your home's air quality today.
Assessing Indoor Air Quality
Your home should be a sanctuary where you can relax and breathe freely. Use the following checklist to evaluate and address indoor air quality concerns:

1. Inspect Potential Entry Points: Examine areas where contaminants may enter your living space, such as HVAC filters, attics, basements, and gardens.
2. Combat Moisture: Check for standing water or high humidity levels, particularly under sinks, around plumbing fixtures, and near appliances like washing machines and hot water heaters. Use dehumidifiers to prevent mold and bacteria growth in moist areas.
3. Identify Signs of Pollutants: Look out for signs of airborne pollutants during your inspection, including:

• Discoloration in attic and wall insulation
• Accumulation of debris in insulation, HVAC filters, or registers
• Dampness, dirt, or debris around air supply ducts and grills
• Detached or loose dryer vents releasing exhaust indoors.
• Warped or peeling wallpaper, indicating moisture or mold issues.

DIY Solutions for Cleaner Air
Take proactive steps to improve indoor air quality with these do-it-yourself solutions:

1. Invest in a Dehumidifier: Combat high humidity levels, which can foster mold growth, by installing a dehumidifier in areas prone to moisture buildup.
2. Choose the Right Filters: Select air filters based on your heating and cooling system, household pollutants, and family health considerations. Look for filters with a high MERV rating for superior filtration efficiency.
3. Consider HEPA Air Purifiers: Enhance air quality with HEPA filters known for their exceptional particle removal capabilities. Install standalone air purifiers equipped with HEPA systems for optimal results.
4. Explore HVAC UV Lights: Harness the power of ultraviolet light to eliminate microorganisms from your HVAC system or air purifier. UV lights can help reduce respiratory irritation for individuals with allergies or asthma.

Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing
For comprehensive assessment and tailored solutions, consider investing in professional indoor air quality testing.

1. Evaluating Airborne Contaminants: Professional tests can identify various pollutants, including mold, allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and pathogens like viruses and bacteria.
2. Customized Solutions: Receive personalized recommendations to mitigate indoor air quality issues based on the test results.

While professional testing entails costs, it offers invaluable insights into potential health hazards and ensures a safer living environment for you and your loved ones.
Take proactive measures to safeguard your home against indoor air pollutants and create a healthier living space for your family. Whether through DIY solutions or professional testing, prioritize indoor air quality to promote overall well-being and comfort in your home.



 

Are you the type to always decline service warranties when you buy electronics, or did you waive the extra warranty for your car? If so, you might assume that residential air conditioner services are a waste of money, but that’s not always the case. The benefits of an HVAC service contract can be worth the cost, depending on a few factors. Take a look at what to consider before buying an HVAC maintenance plan to help cover unexpected repair costs.
Understanding HVAC Maintenance Plans and Service Contracts
When installing a new HVAC system, you’re likely to be offered a maintenance plan or service contract. These agreements involve paying a fee in exchange for ongoing HVAC services from the provider.
Typically, heating and air conditioning maintenance plans include checkups, tune-ups, seasonal maintenance, parts and labor coverage, emergency services, and priority treatment. However, the specifics can vary by provider, with some offering tiered packages for different prices. It’s essential to speak with your local HVAC repair professional to understand what a specific plan entails.
Benefits of HVAC Maintenance Plans
A service contract simplifies the process of keeping up with seasonal and annual HVAC checkups and tune-ups. These plans not only keep your home comfortable year-round but also offer several other benefits:

1. Better energy efficiency: Regular maintenance ensures your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
2. Priority service: With a maintenance plan, you receive expedited service in case of breakdowns, minimizing downtime.
3. Early detection of issues: Professional inspections can identify minor problems before they escalate into costly repairs, saving you money in the long run.
4. Enhanced system longevity: By addressing issues promptly and maintaining optimal performance, maintenance plans help extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
5. Improved indoor air quality: Regular cleaning and filter changes contribute to a healthier indoor environment by removing dust, allergens, and pollutants.
6. Consistent maintenance: With a maintenance plan in place, you ensure that your HVAC system receives regular attention, reducing the risk of unexpected failures.

Drawbacks of HVAC Maintenance Plans
While HVAC maintenance plans offer numerous advantages, they may not be suitable for everyone due to the following drawbacks:

1. Cost: Annual fees for maintenance plans typically range from $150 to $300, which may seem expensive for some homeowners.
2. Overlap with warranties: If you already have an HVAC or home warranty that covers repairs, purchasing a maintenance plan could result in duplicate coverage.
3. DIY maintenance: Homeowners who diligently perform DIY maintenance may find that they require fewer professional services, making a maintenance plan less cost-effective.

Before committing to a maintenance plan, carefully review the terms and costs involved, as well as any existing warranties you have. While these plans offer convenience and peace of mind, they may not be necessary for everyone, especially those who are adept at DIY maintenance or already have comprehensive warranty coverage.
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​Before you call a professional to look at an indoor unit, check for a few basic things. Sometimes fixing the problem is as easy as checking your thermostat.
This is your air conditioning unit’s control center. Check to see that your temperature is set below the current air temperature, and lower it if need be.
Of course, if it’s set to “heat,” you won’t get any air conditioning at all. If you have a zoned system, be sure to check both thermostats. A conflicting setting in one area of the house can affect overall function.
While you’re at it, check the fan setting. Make sure your thermostat is set to “auto” and not “on,” as the “on” setting will make the fan run continuously and circulate air regardless of its temperature. 
Sometimes it’s common to turn the fan on to bring in some fresh air, only to forget about it. A continuously running fan can offset the indoor temperature you feel coming from the vents.
Also, the batteries may need to be replaced in the thermostat itself. (This doesn’t go for all models, but if it applies, it’s an easy fix.)
If this doesn’t fix the problem, your thermostat might be malfunctioning. Your Diamond Blue technician can troubleshoot your thermostat and determine if it needs to be replaced.
Need Help?
The fixes in this section are all things you can check on yourself. If these don’t solve the problem or go beyond your comfort level, give us a call for fast air conditioning repair in Lansing MI, or the surrounding Michigan areas.
#1 We will check for possible wiring problems or shorts in the thermostat or other underlying issues in your inside and outside unit.

#2 Tripped Breaker or Electrical Surge
Are there any breaker switches that were tripped? Obviously, if your AC is not running at all your first concern wouldn’t be warm air. However, it’s possible part of the system, such as the outdoor condensing unit, is powered off.
Take a look at the circuit box. (This is often in the garage, but not always.)
If it has tripped, simply flip it back and check the air temp again. If it continues to trip, it is a sign of something else going on inside the system that needs attention. Give us a call for a diagnosis.

#3  A Clogged Line and Water Build up 
Every air conditioner produces water as a byproduct of conditioning the warm air, so it has a drain system to get rid of it. If the hose or condensate line is clogged, it can cause problems and can potentially leak water. 
Most units have a safety mechanism and it can cause the AC compressor to shut down. This problem can be prevented by scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance visits to keep your lines clean and the system running at peak efficiency. 

#4 Dirty Air Filters
Every bit of air that travels out of your air conditioner is first run through the air filters. A dirty air filter doesn’t seem like a huge problem, but it leads to far bigger issues. If the airflow becomes restricted due to dirty or clogged filters, it can cause the motor, fan, or compressor to overcompensate and even cause the system to shut off.
Eventually, your AC system can freeze up. A clean air filter is an easy and inexpensive way to ensure you are not restricting airflow, which will help your system perform at optimal levels.
If left unattended, the dirty air can begin to affect the evaporator coil. A dirty evaporator coil won’t allow your system to cool like it should, and is sometimes related to dirty filters.
Changing air filters should be done regularly. We can assist you in determining the best practices for your home and system during regular maintenance visits. 

#5 Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the agent that facilitates the heat-cold exchange, so when levels are low your air conditioner will start cooling less. This is one common reason why your AC unit isn't as cool as it used to be.
When your air conditioner’s evaporator coil becomes dirty or has a leak, it will struggle to transfer heat from your home. This can result in a less comfortable home, higher electrical bills and may even shorten the life span of your air conditioner. This can usually be taken care of during routine air conditioning maintenance to help you avoid this issue.
Slow leaks from the lines that carry the refrigerant can cause levels to drop. Your coil might also have a refrigerant leak and can be checked with the right instrumentation. Low-level leaks can eventually cause damage to all parts of the air conditioner or heat pump, as the machinery will work harder to compensate for the loss. 
Recharging the refrigerant is a job that is best left to HVAC professionals. Finding and fixing the leak is a specialized job that requires a lot of know-how. An inferior DIY job will cause continued issues and further damage to the mechanism. Not to mention, most homeowners don’t have the proper access to R-22 or R-410A refrigerant or the equipment to safely do this. Checking and maintaining proper levels can easily be done when it's time to service your air conditioner, both in Spring or Fall.
​
#6 Restricted or Malfunctioning Compressor 
The compressor’s job is to compress the refrigerant that keeps the cooling evaporator coil cold. Therefore, if the condenser coil is not working at full capacity to expel the hot air outside, the cooling coil will not be as cold as it needs to be to decrease the indoor air temperature.
In general, there are a variety of things that can go wrong with compressors, the simplest of which are dirty condenser coils. You might initially notice that it’s simply not turning on like it should be, which will signal a problem.
A build-up of dirt and debris such as leaves on the outdoor unit is very common and often overlooked by homeowners while cutting grass every week. This is one of the first things an HVAC professional will check for. 
Any compressor repair or replacement jobs should only be completed by a licensed HVAC  professional

Before you call a professional to look at an indoor unit, check for a few basic things. Sometimes fixing the problem is as easy as checking your thermostat.
This is your air conditioning unit’s control center. Check to see that your temperature is set below the current air temperature, and lower it if need be.
Of course, if it’s set to “heat,” you won’t get any air conditioning at all. If you have a zoned system, be sure to check both thermostats. A conflicting setting in one area of the house can affect overall function.
While you’re at it, check the fan setting. Make sure your thermostat is set to “auto” and not “on,” as the “on” setting will make the fan run continuously and circulate air regardless of its temperature. 
Sometimes it’s common to turn the fan on to bring in some fresh air, only to forget about it. A continuously running fan can offset the indoor temperature you feel coming from the vents.
Also, the batteries may need to be replaced in the thermostat itself. (This doesn’t go for all models, but if it applies, it’s an easy fix.)
If this doesn’t fix the problem, your thermostat might be malfunctioning. Your Diamond Blue technician can troubleshoot your thermostat and determine if it needs to be replaced.

Need Help?
The fixes in this section are all things you can check on yourself. If these don’t solve the problem or go beyond your comfort level, give us a call for fast air conditioning repair in Lansing MI or the surrounding Michigan areas.

#1 We will check for possible wiring problems or shorts in the thermostat or other underlying issues in your inside and outside unit.

#2 Tripped Breaker or Electrical Surge
Are there any breaker switches that were tripped? Obviously, if your AC is not running at all your first concern wouldn’t be warm air. However, it’s possible part of the system, such as the outdoor condensing unit, is powered off.
Take a look at the circuit box. (This is often in the garage, but not always.)
If it has tripped, simply flip it back and check the air temp again. If it continues to trip, it is a sign of something else going on inside the system that needs attention. Give us a call for a diagnosis.

#3  A Clogged Line and Water Build up 
Every air conditioner produces water as a byproduct of conditioning the warm air, so it has a drain system to get rid of it. If the hose or condensate line is clogged, it can cause problems and can potentially leak water. 
Most units have a safety mechanism and it can cause the AC compressor to shut down. This problem can be prevented by scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance visits to keep your lines clean and the system running at peak efficiency. 

#4 Dirty Air Filters
Every bit of air that travels out of your air conditioner is first run through the air filters. A dirty air filter doesn’t seem like a huge problem, but it leads to far bigger issues. If the airflow becomes restricted due to dirty or clogged filters, it can cause the motor, fan, or compressor to overcompensate and even cause the system to shut off.
Eventually, your AC system can freeze up. A clean air filter is an easy and inexpensive way to ensure you are not restricting airflow, which will help your system perform at optimal levels.
If left unattended, the dirty air can begin to affect the evaporator coil. A dirty evaporator coil won’t allow your system to cool like it should, and is sometimes related to dirty filters.
Changing air filters should be done regularly. We can assist you in determining the best practices for your home and system during regular maintenance visits. 

#5 Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the agent that facilitates the heat-cold exchange, so when levels are low your air conditioner will start cooling less. This is one common reason why your AC unit isn't as cool as it should be.
When your air conditioner’s evaporator coil becomes dirty or has a leak, it will struggle to transfer heat from your home. This can result in a less comfortable home, higher electrical bills and may even shorten the life span of your air conditioner. This can usually be taken care of during routine air conditioning maintenance to help you avoid this issue.
Slow leaks from the lines that carry the refrigerant can cause levels to drop. Your coil might also have a refrigerant leak and can be checked with the right instrumentation. Low-level leaks can eventually cause damage to all parts of the air conditioner or heat pump, as the machinery will work harder to compensate for the loss. 
Recharging the refrigerant is a job that is best left to HVAC professionals. Finding and fixing the leak is a specialized job that requires a lot of know-how. An inferior DIY job will cause continued issues and further damage to the mechanism. Not to mention, most homeowners don’t have the proper access to R-22 or R-410A refrigerant or the equipment to safely do this. Checking and maintaining proper levels can easily be done when it's time to service your air conditioner, both in Spring or Fall.
​
#6 Restricted or Malfunctioning Compressor 
The compressor’s job is to compress the refrigerant that keeps the cooling evaporator coil cold. Therefore, if the condenser coil is not working at full capacity to expel the hot air outside, the cooling coil will not be as cold as it needs to be to decrease the indoor air temperature.
In general, there are a variety of things that can go wrong with compressors, the simplest of which are dirty condenser coils. You might initially notice that it’s simply not turning on like it should be, which will signal a problem.
A build-up of dirt and debris such as leaves on the outdoor unit is very common and often overlooked by homeowners while cutting grass every week. This is one of the first things an HVAC professional will check for. 
Any compressor repair or replacement jobs should only be completed by a licensed HVAC  professional

​We often receive the query, ‘does new HVAC add value to home’, and though there are a few factors to consider, the answer is that yes, generally it does.
It can increase your home’s value by up to 10%. The increase will be greatest in properties with old HVAC systems that are almost obsolete, and houses in warm, humid areas. If a prospective buyer arrives at your home, they may not notice a shiny new unit, but they will likely note the absence of one, or be put off by the sight of an older unit that will soon need to be repaired or replaced.
 
How Much Does a New AC Unit Increase Home Value?
It is estimated that a new AC unit can increase your home’s value by up to 10%. As is the case for the entire HVAC system, this will depend on a few factors, like location (the value will be greater in warmer, humid climates).
A new air conditioning unit typically increases the value of a home from anywhere between 2.5% and 10%. Whichever is the case for your home, a new AC unit will increase its value by either a small amount or a considerable one. One of the biggest factors in purchasing a new AC unit is to avoid detracting from the value of your property with a faulty, broken, or old unit in its place.

Let’s start right off with an important question: “What does HVAC stand for?”. Short for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, HVAC is responsible for heating and cooling a building. It’s also a source of proper ventilation, allowing for moisture to escape.
HVAC units can take on many shapes and sizes, all offering different benefits depending on their design and the spaces they’re being used in. Units may include any combination of the following:

• Boilers
• Air conditioning units
• Ducts and moisture vents

Not all HVAC units are air conditioning units, even though AC units are included under the HVAC umbrella. As outlined above, what’s important to understand is that it’s actually a larger term. Think of it as an umbrella term that applies to all sorts of interrelated air control systems.

One of the biggest points of disagreement about air conditioning is not whether to have it, but how to set it. Some Americans like it cold, and some like it hot, and the difference often plays out among gender lines, with men comfortable at cooler temperatures than women.
 
The debate is fiercest in office buildings where a single temperature is set for everyone, but it plays out in American homes, too. Around 20 % of American homes are set to 69 degrees Fahrenheit or lower when people are home in the summer. Another 18% are 77 degrees or warmer. There are partisans for 72 degrees, and 75 degrees, and everywhere else- a balancing act between comfort and cost.

There are difference from areas with high heating demand to ones with higher A/C demands. Air conditioning has become more common over that period, and homes have become bigger, requiring mor energy to cool them.
All of that is counterbalanced by the fact that furnaces and air conditioners have become much more efficient over that time- especially air conditioners. The net effect is the US residential AC energy use is going up, but not by as much as heating energy is going down.
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Technology has the potential to continue improving the efficiency of both heating and cooling. Variable-speed air conditioners already on the market as a premium product, have the potential to reduce AC energy usage by 25-30%. On the heating side, one trend is towards heat pumps- essentially an air conditioner running in reverse. Because these run on electricity instead of fossil fuels, they can significantly reduce emissions in areas where a big portion of the power grid comes from clean sources.

According to the most recent results from the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey, (RECS) 88% of US households use Air Conditioning (AC). Two thirds of US households use central AC or a central heat pump a their main AC equipment.
In 2020 the Midwest Census Region an South Census Region ha the highest percentages of households using AC, at 92% and 93% respectively. The lowest percentages of households using AC was 73% in the West Census Region; this census region includes households in several climate area, such as the marine climate region along the Pacific Coast, where residential AC use was 49%.
​
Although central AC units are the primary equipment type used in most of the United States, 50% of Northeast households primarily use individual AC units. Individual AC units include window and wall units, mini-splits, and portable units.
RECS data show that newer homes are more likely to use AC in most climate regions. Nationally 83% of homes built before 1950- and 93% of homes built between 2010 and 2020 used AC. The greatest difference in AC use among old and new housing was in the marine climate region, where only 39% of homes built between 1950 used AC, and 66% of homes built between 2010 and 2020.