Common Heating and Cooling Myths

Posted on: October 26th, 2016 by tcg_admin No Comments

If you are like us, you have probably heard plenty of do it yourself advice when it comes to effectively heating or cooling your space. While some tips are spot on, others are very misleading and can actually end up costing you money in the long term.

Check out these common heating and cooling myths, debunked!

Name: ACTION AIR
Address: 868 Kraft Street, Clarksville, TN, 37040
Telephone: (931) 647-8525

Myth 1: Closing off your vents will save you money on your heating bill.

We really aren’t sure where this folk tale came from, but no, blocking your vents will certainly not save you money. In fact, doing this can throw your system’s natural rhythm out of balance, which could even lead to damaging your heating equipment. The most energy efficient practice is to achieve even heat distribution throughout your home. This requires leaving all vents unobscured.

Myth 2: Leaving a ceiling fan on all the time will cool the room, even when you are not in it.

While the use of ceiling fans can have several benefits, lowering the temperature of a room no one is in is not one of them. Ceiling fans work to circulate the air in the room, which causes your skin to feel cool. While this does make you feel cooler, it does not actually lower the temperature of the room itself. Tricky!

Myth 3: The higher I set my thermostat, the more quickly my room will heat.

Even though it may ease your mind to crank the heat up when you come in from the cold, your furnace will deliver heat at the same rate consistently. The best thing to do is to set your thermostat to the desired temperature and be patient. Setting your thermostat higher than needed actually wastes more energy, because you will likely have to turn the heat down later once your body temperature comes up.

At Action Air, we pride ourselves on offering our customers honest, high quality service. Give us a call at 931-647-8525 today or visit us online to learn more about scheduling a service or routine maintenance appointment. One of our qualified technicians will be glad to address any of your heating & cooling needs!

Source:
Horizon Services Inc.

How will I know when to change my air filter?

Posted on: September 21st, 2016 by tcg_admin 2 Comments

One of the most common issues people have with their HVAC is an obstructed air filter.

Luckily, a dirty filter is an AC issue that can be easily addressed! There are many problems that may be symptomatic of a filter in need of changing. There is no complicated formula when it comes to changing your home’s air filter. When your air filter looks dingy and dirty – change it. It really is as simple as that.

Use these tips to know when it’s time for a filter change!

1) Help yourself: Remember to check & change your filters.

This tip may sound silly, but the simple act of remembering to check your filters can help prevent airflow problems down the road. Some people find it helpful to write the date on which a filter was installed on the filter’s edge. Whether or not you choose to do this, try setting yourself a reminder on your phone’s calendar or writing it down on the calendar you keep in your home. When to change your filter depends on many factors, like how large your space is, how many occupants there are, if pets live inside the building, etc. For the average home without pets, it’s recommended to change your filters roughly every 3 months.

2) Know your type: Record the type of filter you have.

There are several different type of filters on the market. Which one you choose will depend on your air quality needs, budget, the priority you place on energy efficiency, etc. Economy panel filters come in packs and are fairly inexpensive at first glance. However, these types of filters tend to only catch larger particles and you will likely find yourself needing to replace them more often. Although they cost a bit more money, an investment in a pleated filter can last up to 6 months, catching up to 60% more debris than an economy filter. For those with more advanced air quality needs, HEPA filters can be purchased at a higher cost but, depending on the environment they may not need to be changed as often.

3) Tis the season: Keep the time of year in mind.

Was the summer unseasonably hot this year or the winter unusually harsh? These factors can make your HVAC system work overtime, resulting in the need for a filter change sooner.

If you are experiencing problems with your HVAC system, checking the quality of your air filter is a great place to start. Checking your filters once a month is a good rule of thumb to help keep you in the habit! If you find that a more serious issue is occurring, contact us at Action Air in Clarksville, TN. Schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable technicians. They will be able to address any issues you may be having. When you need action, call Action Air!

Sources:

Service Experts

Comfort Guard

My cooling bill is out of control!

Posted on: July 12th, 2016 by tcg_admin No Comments

Cooling costs can really burn you in the summer.

Here are some tips to help keep your bill as low as the temperature inside!

As the summer wears on, temperatures continue to rise, especially in the south! Many people are left with the tough choice of picking which one is more comfortable: the state of your bank account, or the temperature inside your home/business. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce cooling costs in the summer. Check out this list of helpful tips!

1. Leave the sun outside

Everyone enjoys the extra hours of sunlight in the summer, but not when the sun’s rays are raising your cooling bill. Keep the sun outside where it belongs by covering your windows with blinds or curtains. This simple trick can help you save big time when cooling your home!

2. Cool down your cooking

Your oven puts off lots of heat! This can really heat up the place, especially in a small space. Opt for meals prepared in a crockpot or microwave in the summer. Try grilling out or even better, try some refreshingly cool and healthy summer salad options!

3. Switch on a fan

Air circulation is key to maintaining low temperatures inside your home or business. Using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioner can help accomplish this, while also lowering your cooling costs! Using a ceiling fan can even allow you to raise the temperature on your thermostat a couple of degrees without leaving you uncomfortably warm.

4. Make sure your AC Unit is well maintained

You know what they say, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Stop AC problems before they start by making sure your hvac unit is properly maintained. Give us a call at Action Air and one of our experienced technicians would be glad to pay you a service visit!

Contact us at our office in Clarksville, TN for help keeping your home or office cool this summer. Schedule an appointment to have an Action Air professional visit you for maintenance and repairs alike. At Action Air we have certified service technicians, qualified installers, and a knowledgeable sales staff. When You Need Action, Call Action Air!

Sources:

US News & World Report

NEA Member Benefits

My AC isn’t cooling like it used to – help!

Posted on: June 15th, 2016 by tcg_admin 1 Comment

When your air conditioning isn’t cooling at its usual rate, it can be frustrating.

As temperatures continue to rise, it is important that your AC do its job by adequately keeping you cool. We all know how hot Tennessee summers can get! If your air conditioning isn’t keeping your home or office as cool as it used to, there are a couple of things that might be going wrong. Below you will find a list of common AC issues and what you can do to check them.

A) Check For Airflow Problems Inside

AC that isn’t running as it should is likely the result of a simple disruption to airflow. The best place to check for this issue is the return. Can you remember the last time you changed your air filters? A clogged filter could be the culprit.

B) Check for Airflow Problems Outside

If all is well inside your home, turn your attention outdoors. Your unit should ideally have about two feet of space around it. Do your best to clear any debris (including tall grass and weeds) that may have accumulated around your HVAC system that may be keeping your unit from functioning properly.

C) Check Your Thermostat Settings

Many thermostats offer both an “auto” and an “on” setting. Depending on which you are used to, accidentally switching the thermostat to a different setting can make it seem as though your AC is not working correctly. The “auto” setting typically turns your blower off and on automatically based on the observed temperature of the room. “On” will allow your fan to run constantly. An “on” setting is typically reserved for spaces with special filtration systems installed as part of their HVAC system.

D) Consider Ductwork Issues

Airflow can also be disrupted by an issue with your ductwork. If your ductwork is bent, cracked, etc. it cannot properly deliver and distribute air into your home, thus keeping it cool. An inspection may be needed to determine any ductwork issues and resolve the problem you are experiencing with your HVAC.

These are just a few of the common reasons that your AC might not be working the way you are accustomed to. If you can’t find the issue, or think something more serious may be going on, contact us at our office in Clarksville, TN. We can set up an appointment to have an Action Air professional visit your home. They will be able to perform routine maintenance in order to keep your system running efficiently and also advise on other areas where your HVAC system may be having an issue. At Action Air we have certified service technicians, qualified installers, and a knowledgeable sales staff. When You Need Action, Call Action Air!

Sources:

Enlighten Me

Cool Today

How can my business become more energy efficient?

Posted on: May 26th, 2016 by tcg_admin No Comments

With hot weather coming, saving on energy costs can be a challenge.

Making a business energy efficient can present challenges that you wouldn’t experience in your home. Most businesses are located in much larger spaces than a typical home. Businesses also have to think about the comfort of a wide range of employees and clients or customers. Not to worry, Action Air has some great advice on keeping everyone comfortable, while reducing your energy use over the summer!

Routine Maintenance

Tune up your HVAC system on a regular basis. This will ensure maximum performance and add years to the life of your equipment.
Change Filters

Change your filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer.
Treat your Windows

Consider using blinds, awnings, solar film on windows, and natural vegetation to manage heat and light. Let light and heat in during the winter and keep it out during the summer.
Keep Air Moving

Use fans to keep air moving and maintain a comfortable level of humidity.
Plug Leaks

Use weather stripping and caulking to seal any areas where air may be escaping. You will then be able to better manage your ventilation and keep the air that has been cooled (or heated) inside.
Temperature Control

During summer months, adjusting your thermostat up one degree typically can save 2-3% on cooling costs. Adjust thermostats higher when cooling and lower when heating unoccupied areas within a building (e.g. during weekends and non-working hours).
Prevent Thermostat Changes

Consider installing locking devices on thermostats to maintain ideal temperature settings.

If you would like more information, contact us at our office in Clarksville, TN. We can set up an appointment to have an Action Air professional visit your business. They will be able to perform routine maintenance in order to keep your system running efficiently and also advise on more areas for you to save energy. At Action Air we have certified service technicians, qualified installers, and a knowledgeable sales staff. When You Need Action, Call Action Air!

Sources:
SBA
Ambit Energy
SRP

Why is my air conditioner blowing hot air?

Posted on: July 30th, 2015 by tcg_admin No Comments

Air conditioning can be essential on a hot summer day.

Nothing is worse than hot air blowing from your AC.

We all expect that sound of an air conditioner working to mean a nice cool breeze and a comfortable indoor temperature. So why would an Air conditioner blow hot air? Well there are several reasons, some almost silly and some serious. Here are a few of the most common reasons that you aren’t feeling that refreshing chilly air.

Thermostat Setting: Did your thermostat somehow get reset? Make sure you check that your thermostat is set to cool! If the settings were changed, your air conditioner could be working perfectly, it may just not be on! HVAC systems will usually have several settings and although the sounds they make may be the same when they are working they all have very different functions. Make sure you don’t have yours set to a heat or fan mode.
Restricted Airflow: If there is something restricting the Airflow in your HVAC system there the cool air being produced by your air conditioner may not be making it through your ducts into your house. The main culprit for this is an Air Filter that needs to be changed. If a filter hasn’t been changed in a long time it can get very dirty and clogged which will stop the airflow from your AC. It is relatively easy to change a filter yourself, and could easily fix the problem. A dirty air filter can also make the coils in your AC dirty and that will require professional maintenance.
Electric Issues: Most air conditioners have two parts, and indoor and an outdoor unit. If the electricity is cut off to the outdoor unit you may be getting warm air blown into the house. An indoor unit will often be on a separate breaker from the outdoor, so the fan will keep blowing air even if the AC isn’t actually functioning. Check your outdoor unit to see if it is actually on and functioning. If it doesn’t seem to be you can also check the breaker and see if it has been tripped. If the breaker has been tripped there is probably a bigger issue involved and you should seek help from a professional.
Low Refrigerant: From the cheapest air conditioner to the most elaborate, they all use some kind of refrigerant (usually Freon). A Freon leak can leave you feeling the heat since you will have a complete loss of cold air. A Freon leak will be obvious if you see ice formed on the inside and outside of your unit. There are also a few other reasons your AC could be low on refrigerant. If that is your issue, a recharge and maintenance will be necessary and you will definitely need to seek the help of a professional.

Hopefully we have given you a bit more of an idea what is going on. If you decide you need professional help fixing your Air Conditioner in Clarksville, Tennessee or the surrounding area, contact Action Air. Our experienced technicians are on call Monday – Sunday 8am to 8pm and we have emergency service 24/7! Book an appointment online today at www.actionairclarksville.com, or give us a call at (931)-647-8525.

Action Air Carries HVAC Brands You Can Trust

Posted on: June 30th, 2015 by tcg_admin No Comments

At Action Air, we stand strongly behind the products we believe in.

With the crazy weather of middle Tennessee, the citizens of Clarksville and the surrounding areas need Air Conditioners and Heaters they can count on.

That is why the experts at Action Air have put in the time and research to be able to supply you with the very best HVAC brands available. Here is a quick overview of some of the brands we install.

Rheem – Respected for reliability, Rheem is an industry leader for total heating, cooling and water heating solutions. All Rheem products meet or exceed rigorous industry and regulatory standards for quality, reliability, efficiency, and air & water quality. Rheem products are frequently tested and certified by various government and third-party testing labs to ensure quality standards.
Trane – Every Trane product is designed down to every detail and rigorously tested for reliability and durability. Trane has to design, build, test, and rebuild some of their own parts. Trane pushes beyond the industry standards, making sure they match the reliability people expect when they own a Trane. When you own a Trane, you’re getting more than reliable comfort, you’re getting it year after year.
Carrier – Carrier is a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier heating and air-conditioning systems are trusted to bring energy-efficient, quiet, consistent comfort to millions of people. Carrier home comfort solutions can provide consistent temperature, humidity and air quality from room to room, hour to hour and minute to minute. Their systems are quiet which means no loud noises when the furnace or air conditioning turns on and no worries about performance – just ideal comfort.
Goodman – Goodman provides a refreshingly affordable product that’s covered by what many consider to be the best product warranties in the heating and cooling industry. The vision of Goodman’s founder is to provide high-quality heating and air conditioning to consumers that is easy to install at a refreshingly affordable price.
Mitsubishi Electric – Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating has innovated technologies designed to enhance your home and your life. Traditional cooling and heating options drive homeowners to choose between comfort and cost. Mitsubishi’s advanced, ductless climate control systems empower you to create your own personalized room-by-room comfort – without compromise.

Action Air stands by these brands and companies. Take some time and visit each company’s website for more information on the products available to you. Contact us at Action Air for a consultation and estimate. You are always welcome to stop by to speak with one of our HVAC Experts too!

(931) 647-8525 – 868 Kraft Street, Clarksville, TN 37040.

Source Links:

http://www.rheem.com/

http://www.trane.com/residential

http://www.carrier.com/carrier/en/us/

http://www.goodmanmfg.com/

http://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/

Why is my Air Conditioner so loud?

Posted on: June 16th, 2015 by tcg_admin No Comments

Do you ever find yourself wondering, “Why is my Air Conditioner so loud?”

Here are a few answers so you can troubleshoot, before giving Action Air a call!

Even the best central air conditioner can have problems on occasion. Air conditioners are supposed to make some noise, but there is a distinct difference between a properly running air conditioner unit and one that is having some difficulty. The age of an AC Unit can also determine how loud it might be. There have been significant improvements over the years; just because it’s loud, it doesn’t mean it’s dying. Here are a few common sounds to listen for and some ideas about what could be wrong:

Rattling ‑ If you hear a rattling noise coming from an exterior AC unit, it could be because something fell into the vents, such as leaves, sticks, or other outdoor debris. A rattle could also indicate something as simple as loose bolts, screws, or fasteners. However, the sound could also be coming from the compressor. As the motor in the compressor begins to age, it may get louder and begin to make noises, which would be the first sign of a problem.
Grinding ‑If you hear a grinding noise, it is most likely one of the fan motors. The noise usually signals that something might be going wrong with the fan motors, such as a worn bearing. This is a problem that may warrant a service call to Action Air Conditioning.
Popping ‑Sometimes, you might hear popping noises in your ductwork, especially when the air cuts on and off. This is actually an issue with your ductwork rather than the central air conditioning unit. As ductwork ages, it may also require maintenance. This will help to ensure that nothing is faulty or damaged. Proper care of your ducts means that your AC unit can continue to effectively and efficiently cool your home.
Hissing‑A hissing or whistling noise could also be due to a problem with ductwork. However, a hissing noise coming from the AC unit itself is often indicative of a refrigerant leak, which should only be handled by an HVAC professional.

Remember, if you have any questions at all regarding noises coming from your AC Unit, you can contact Action Air Conditioning in Clarksville, TN 24/7! We are happy to help diagnose and fix any air conditioning problems.

How can I reduce humidity inside my home over the summer?

Posted on: June 12th, 2015 by tcg_admin 1 Comment

People in Middle Tennessee have heard this phrase hundreds of times:

“It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity!”

There is a lot of truth to that phrase and low humidity is just as important inside your house as it is outside! The main way our bodies cool us down is through evaporation of moisture from our skin. If the humidity is too high, even with your AC unit blasting, you may not be able to get cool enough. So, what should indoor humidity be? The ideal humidity level inside your house is between 30% and 50%. Any higher than that and you’ll be sweating! Don’t worry though, there are some things you can do to help reduce humidity inside your home.

Exhaust Fans – Most homes come with exhaust fans already installed. Bathroom exhaust fans and vent fans for your stove can be key in keeping a low humidity level in your house. These products are designed to remove the excess humidity that is created by showering, boiling water, and other activities that will create excess moisture in the air. If your home isn’t equipped with these fans, installing them will help to seriously reduce your indoor humidity levels.
Air Flow – Increasing the airflow within your home will help promote the evaporation of any moisture. This is especially helpful for rooms that feel a little more stuffy than the rest of the house. There is a reason you see so many ceiling fans all over the south! The increased circulation of air will do wonders for reducing humidity and evenly distributing the cooler air from your air conditioner.
Seal Leaks – Leaking seals around your windows and doors can make your home more humid! Just as in winter when you can feel a cool breeze through a poorly sealed window, heat and humidity can come inside during the summer. Take a little time and insure the proper seal around your doors and windows. Most seals can be easily repaired or replaced with DIY products from a hardware store. It’s also important to check around any vents or exhausts like dryer vents.
Dehumidifier – When humidity becomes a serious problem, a dehumidifier can be the answer. The dehumidifier will remove excess humidity from the air in your home and will usually store the moisture in some kind of container. These containers will have to be emptied on occasion, and you will be able to see how much water they remove from the atmosphere. When the humidity is higher, it will have to be emptied more frequently. Water from a dehumidifier is perfect to use for watering your houseplants!
HVAC Service and Maintenance – Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool your home, it also removes moisture from the air. Leaks in your HVAC ductwork or an AC unit will not only allow the humidity to creep higher in your home, it will also cost you more to cool your house. That’s why it’s a good idea to have Action Air Conditioning in Clarksville, TN do an inspection of your HVAC twice a year.

When humidity seeps into your home, it can make rooms feel stuffy and even smell musty. Beyond these superficial discomforts, too much humidity can result in serious consequences. An overly humid home can lose its structural integrity, attract pests like silverfish and centipedes, and even make you sick. So make sure you consult with Action Air for the best air conditioning installation, service, and repair. If you have any questions or need more help please contact Action Air by calling (931) 647-8525, or visiting our wesite https://actionairclarksville.com/ When you need action, call Action Air!

Action Air Announces Winner of Redneck Photo Contest!

Posted on: March 23rd, 2015 by tcg_admin No Comments

Mrs. Peggy Coon

She swept the contest away by receiving 525 votes on her photo!

Peggy’s HVAC unit is 24 years old and is on its very last leg! Many days the family is surprised that the unit is still functioning at all. Peggy and her family are extremely grateful to be receiving this new unit!

Peggy & her daughter’s story:

The air-conditioning unit is a 1991 model, and has been at this location for over 20 years. My father has lived in the house for a little over two years. We’ve had to have multiple people come out and look at it, including action air. They checked for leaks and cracks. The Evaporator Coil is leaking refrigerant. The unit is also freezing up. It’s on its very last leg and I’m surprised it’s still running.We were planning on purchasing a new one about a year ago but before we could my father suffered from a massive brain aneurysm. He was in the hospital for a couple of months and went through multiple life threatening brain surgeries. The doctors were shocked that he survived. As you may know the brain is a very important part of the human body. It controls everything you do. Including your ability to talk. Unfortunately that was taken away from my father. He is now aphasic, meaning he can’t say full sentences. He knows exactly what he wants to say but its just not possible for it to come out. Without your voice it is very difficult to do anything. It is essential to be social for almost every job out there. Therefore, my father can not work and has no income. He deserves to win this contest because he is truly a person in need of a new unit.

Action Air is glad to be helping a family so deserving of this opportunity!

A big congratulations to Peggy Coon & her family, as well as we want to say THANK YOU to the rest of the participants.

Clarksville residents, call Action Air for all of you HVAC maintenance & preventative care needs at 931-647-8525!

Posts Tagged ‘ac’

Check out these common heating and cooling myths, debunked!

Myth 1: Closing off your vents will save you money on your heating bill.

Myth 2: Leaving a ceiling fan on all the time will cool the room, even when you are not in it.

Myth 3: The higher I set my thermostat, the more quickly my room will heat.

One of the most common issues people have with their HVAC is an obstructed air filter.

Use these tips to know when it’s time for a filter change!

Cooling costs can really burn you in the summer.

Here are some tips to help keep your bill as low as the temperature inside!

When your air conditioning isn’t cooling at its usual rate, it can be frustrating.

Sources:

With hot weather coming, saving on energy costs can be a challenge.

Treat your Windows

Keep Air Moving

Plug Leaks

Temperature Control

Prevent Thermostat Changes

Air conditioning can be essential on a hot summer day.

Nothing is worse than hot air blowing from your AC.

At Action Air, we stand strongly behind the products we believe in.

With the crazy weather of middle Tennessee, the citizens of Clarksville and the surrounding areas need Air Conditioners and Heaters they can count on.

Do you ever find yourself wondering, “Why is my Air Conditioner so loud?”

Here are a few answers so you can troubleshoot, before giving Action Air a call!

People in Middle Tennessee have heard this phrase hundreds of times:

“It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity!”

Mrs. Peggy Coon

Peggy’s HVAC unit is 24 years old and is on its very last leg! Many days the family is surprised that the unit is still functioning at all. Peggy and her family are extremely grateful to be receiving this new unit!

Action Air is glad to be helping a family so deserving of this opportunity!

A big congratulations to Peggy Coon & her family, as well as we want to say THANK YOU to the rest of the participants.