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Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

The Benefits of Commercial Duct Cleaning

Tuesday, March 24th, 2015

Ducts are an important part of any centralized forced air system. This is especially true for commercial HVAC systems, which employ much larger and more complex ductwork than residential properties do.

The ductwork in your building is responsible for keeping you and your employees comfortable, by transporting fresh air from your heating and air conditioning systems. Unfortunately, ductwork can also harm those inside a commercial property if it is not properly maintained.

Let’s take a look at one of the harms that can occur due to poorly maintained ductwork, and what you can do to prevent it.

Airborne Contaminants

The air inside the average commercial building is infested with millions upon millions of microscopic airborne contaminants. Things like viruses, bacteria, dust, mold spores, and insect dander are all commonly found floating through the air in commercial and residential buildings. These contaminants tend to be pretty loosely dispersed, which prevents them from having any serious health effects on those in the building.

In the ducts, however, these contaminants are given a safe haven in which to gather. The level of pollutants builds up in your ducts over time until a forced air system is turned on, at which point the entire building receives a concentrated blast of them. This makes it more likely for the building’s occupants to suffer allergy attacks and illness.

Duct Cleaning

In order to address these contaminants, it’s a good idea to schedule commercial duct cleaning for your building at least once every one or two years. Duct cleaning is where your HVAC company removes any and all contaminants that may be lurking in your ducts, either through vacuums or manual cleaning or both. Duct cleaning significantly improves the indoor air quality of your business, thereby improving the health and quality of life of everyone inside.

It can also improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, by revealing any leaks or other issues that need to be dealt with. If your ducts haven’t been cleaned in a while, you could most certainly benefit from scheduling a duct cleaning today.

If you’d like to know more about the specifics of duct cleaning, Call Roznovak. We provide commercial duct cleaning services throughout the Austin area.

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How to Avoid the Need for AC Repair

Wednesday, March 18th, 2015

Our days are warming up, and many of you may have already turned on your air conditioning systems to help stave off the early spring heat. We use our air conditioners for a lot of the year, so taking some steps that can help you avoid the need for A/C repair in Austin is always a good thing for our local homeowners.

We’ll outline more of these steps below, but if you are experiencing any issues with your air conditioning, call the people you can count on: Roznovak.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore Strange Sounds

Let’s be honest: no homeowner looks forward to air conditioning repair. But ignoring strange sounds or poor performance doesn’t make the problems go away, and will most likely make the problems worse. And just because your system is still operational doesn’t mean that there isn’t a problem; it just means the problem hasn’t become serious enough yet to result in breakdown. So what kinds of noises are we talking about? Buzzing, banging, popping, really anything that sounds of the ordinary. When you hear anything strange, call for help.

Step 2: Change the Air Filter

As far as individual components go, your AC’s air filter is probably one of the least complicated ones in the entire system – but that doesn’t mean it can’t cause problems. A clogged air filter can seriously restrict the air flow in your entire system, causing any number of systemic problems to develop. But there’s an easy solution to this: change the air filter every 3 months. Replacing your air filter every quarter helps keep your AC healthy and eliminates the problems that can develop from a clogged air filter.

Step 3: Schedule Annual Maintenance

Maintenance is a full tune-up for your air conditioner, and spring is the perfect time to schedule it. Why schedule maintenance? During a maintenance appointment, your system is thoroughly inspected, components are cleaned and adjusted, and all moving parts are lubricated. The technician will also test for performance, and if any existing or developing problems are found, you’ll be alerted. Maintenance helps keep your system in good working order for the whole cooling season.

Have further A/C repair questions about your Austin air conditioning system? Call us today!

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Signs That You Need Air Conditioning Repair

Tuesday, March 10th, 2015

Air conditioner problems are a bit harder to diagnose than heater problems, at least for the untrained eye. There are a few symptoms that cross over. Lack of heating/cool air is a pretty obvious sign of trouble, for example. However, there are a lot of problem indicators that are specific to air conditioners. So, if you want to keep your air conditioner in good condition it’s a good idea to learn these unique indicators. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Ice

TechWithCondensorAir conditioners are supposed to keep your home cool, but there are limits to how much they can lower the temperature and still operate correctly. If you see ice on your air conditioner, it’s a sign that something has gone wrong. This can be caused by dirt on the coils or a low refrigerant level, both of which can lower the temperature below what it should be.

Once the ice has formed, it prevents the coils in the air conditioner from successfully drawing heat from the air. This causes your air conditioner to actually lose cooling ability, and can damage the coils on top of that. So, if you see ice forming on your AC, call for repairs.

Short-Cycling

Short-cycling is when your air conditioner keeps rapidly turning itself on and off during operation. This is an extremely harmful effect that can be caused by a few different factors. The compressor could be malfunctioning, which results in irregular pressure in the refrigerant line. The problem could also be located in the thermostat, which may have a faulty temperature sensor. Regardless of the cause, however, the behavior itself places the air conditioner under an extreme amount of stress. If the cause isn’t found and treated by a professional, you may have to replace part or all of the system.

Air conditioning repair is a broad topic, and not one that we can entirely cover in this post. If you suspect that your air conditioner might be malfunctioning for any reason, call Roznovak today. We offer air conditioning repair services throughout Austin, TX.

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What Are the Benefits of a Geothermal System?

Friday, October 31st, 2014

Choosing a new air conditioning or heating system can be a difficult process considering all of the options available in today’s world. But if you need a new heating and cooling system, it’s tough to beat the efficiency of a geothermal system. Geothermal heat pumps depend on the stable temperature beneath the earth’s surface to circulate heat. Learn more about these systems in this guide.

Roznovak is your professional source for heating and air conditioning installation or any residential AC service here in Los Angeles.

How It Works

A heat pump is a type of system that moves heat from one area to another. In an air-source heat pump, refrigerant pumps through an indoor and outdoor component to move heat from the inside to the outdoors in the summer and from the outside to the inside in the winter. A geothermal system works a bit differently. Water or a water-refrigerant blend pumps through a set of coils buried underneath the ground. In the heating season, heat is absorbed from the earth and moved into your home. In the summer, heat is absorbed from the air in your home and safely deposited outdoors.

Some Benefits of Geothermal Air Conditioning and Heating

  • Environmentally Friendly: Many people praise geothermal heating and cooling for its low environmental impact. Geothermal heat pumps do not release pollutants into the air and use far less power than standard AC and heating systems.
  • Energy Efficient: Geothermal systems are incredibly efficient, saving a lot of money from month to month. In fact, as time goes on, the energy savings combined with the possibility of government incentives can offset the initial cost of installation.
  • Fewer Repair Needs: Generally, geothermal systems require fewer repairs than some other types of heating and cooling systems because they contain few moving parts and because the outdoor components are buried underground, and not exposed to the outside elements.

Geothermal systems are also relatively quiet, have long lifespans, and you may receive local or federal incentives for installing the system. Geothermal systems are great for anyone looking to save money from month to month and retain quality heating and cooling. For more information about geothermal cooling and heating or for any residential AC service in Georgetown, TX, call the friendly professionals at Roznovak.

 

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Ways You Can Update Your Current Air Conditioning System

Friday, October 24th, 2014

Your air conditioning system does a sufficient job at providing cool air to your home when you need it. But if you’re not getting quite the performance you deserve from your home comfort system, there may be a few changes you can make that will keep you more comfortable, save some money, and even improve the quality of your air.

You know to call a professional whenever you need residential AC repairs. However, the following services are some other ways you can update your air conditioner for a more relaxing home. These require the help of a professional technician, but can help prevent repairs and save you time and money later on.

  • Thermostat Upgrade: Thermostats have an important job: detect the indoor temperature and send a signal to the air conditioner when the temperature is higher than you have set the thermostat. It may seem that all thermostats work the same way, but a new thermostat can help you save energy and ward off repairs. A programmable wireless thermostat can be placed anywhere and has a digital display and advanced settings so that you can vary the temperature throughout the day. A smart thermostat can operate with an internet connection from a computer or smartphone. Controlling the temperature throughout the day keeps costs down and stops your system from becoming overworked and requiring repairs.
  • Zone Control Installation: Zone control systems allow you to adjust the temperature differently in individual areas or zones of the home. Separate thermostats mean family members are more comfortable wherever they are in the home, and it can help you save energy. You can shut off the air in areas of the home that go unused throughout the day, while keeping it on in the main living spaces.
  • Air Filtration System: An air filtration system can keep the air indoors feeling less stale, and can help keep allergies and asthma from acting up by filtering out certain harmful particles, bacteria, and mold spores. Try a new UV air purifier, dehumidifier, or electronic air filters.
  • Professional Maintenance: Finally, you can update your air conditioner by making the call to a professional technician for annual air conditioning maintenance. A technician will inspect the parts of your system, clean some components, and make minor adjustments to keep your unit running in the best shape possible.

Call the experts at Roznovak for thee updates or whenever you need professional residential AC repairs in Round Rock, TX.

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Common AC Repairs

Friday, October 17th, 2014

We are at the tail-end of another cooling season, and it’s not unusual for you to see some problems arise with your air conditioner. After several months of operating around-the-clock, your system is bound to have some wear and tear, and you may need to schedule residential AC repair service. There are some repairs our Roznovak technicians see at this time of year more than others, but for any repair you may need, call the experts at Roznovak.

Here is a List of Common Air Conditioning System Repairs

Compressor Problems

The compressor in your air conditioning system operates under a lot of pressure in order to do its job. Operating full time, it isn’t unusual for certain problems to develop. Common issues are electrical problems, particularly with wiring and capacitors, and problems with the motor; oil leaks can also develop. Your compressor is a complex component, and any repairs involving it should be handled only by a trained professional.

Refrigerant Leaks

Your air conditioner needs to run with an exact amount of refrigerant, as specified by the manufacturer. When leaks develop, they lower the level of refrigerant in the system, and as such, create an imbalance in the heat release/cooling process. Refrigerant leaks can develop in a number of places, and are challenging to detect unless you have training. If you suspect you have a refrigerant leak, call for professional assistance.

Fan Issues

The fans in your system help with air flow. Typical fan problems are problems with the motor, electrical issues such as frayed wiring and problems with loose or bent fan blades. Because of the variety of issues that can develop with the fans, it’s important to hire a trained technician to inspect and determine the exact problem rather than handling things yourself.

Your air conditioner works hard during the summer months, and while it may be tempting to just turn it off at the end of this cooling season, it’s always better to attend to any existing problems as soon as possible. Call Roznovak today and schedule your residential AC repairs in Round Rock, TX.

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Common End-of-Season Ductless Repairs

Friday, September 26th, 2014

Ductless mini split systems possess a number of advantages when compared to more traditional heating and cooling systems. Systems that use ducts waste 30% of their energy due to duct leaks. Ductless systems avoid that loss completely. Ductless systems also provide the versatility of setting different desired temperatures for different rooms. Unfortunately, they are just as prone to problems and breakdowns as any other system.

Here are some end-of-season ductless repairs that you are likely to see.

Condensate Leaks

The condensate line, along with the refrigerant and power lines, is housed in a conduit that connects the indoor and outdoor units through the wall of the house. The connection point between the wall of the house and the conduit tends to be the most vulnerable to leaks. It also happens to be the most dangerous. A condensate leak inside the wall can rot out a large area if left unchecked, and may even cause the ductless unit to fall off the wall. If you notice any liquid pooling or dripping around the unit, call a professional right away.

Motor Breakdowns

One of the unique considerations involved with multiple ductless systems is that each one must be serviced separately. A central system will have far fewer parts to worry about. Multiple ductless units mean multiples of each part that need to be maintained. Fan motors are one of the most common parts that can run into problems. If the motor doesn’t work for whatever reason, the fan becomes useless and your unit fails. If you need to have this issue fixed, be sure to ask your service professional to check any other ductless systems you may have in the house. The last thing you want is for a different unit to break right after you got the first one fixed.

Refrigerant Losing Charge

When an air conditioning unit is first installed, it is “charged” with a specific level of refrigerant. While the unit is working properly, that same refrigerant is cycled throughout the system without need for replacement. A leak in the refrigerant line, however, can drain the refrigerant to dangerously low levels. This can cause the air conditioning unit to stop circulating cool air through the space.

If you are experiencing problems with your ductless air conditioning, call Roznovak. We conduct air conditioning repairs throughout the entire Austin, TX area.

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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Getting a New AC

Friday, September 19th, 2014

Getting a new air conditioner can be exciting, especially if you’ve been dealing with problems from an old, outdated one. But before you jump in with both feet and purchase your next system, there are a few important points to keep in mind. The very first point is to work with a trained professional, like the ones at Roznovak’s Services. We specialize in air conditioning service in Austin, TX, and we’ve got the expertise and knowledge to make sure you purchase an AC system that fits your needs and your home. Thinking of a new installation? Take your first step and call us today.

Things to Know Before You Purchase a New Air Conditioner

Here are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing and installing a new air conditioner:

Review the Types of Air Conditioners Available

There are a lot of choices when it comes to residential whole-home air conditioners. Knowing what the types are and having a basic understanding of how they operate can help you determine what type will best fit your needs and your home:

  • Traditional split system
  • Ductless air conditioning
  • Geothermal
  • Heat pumps

Don’t Install a System on Your Own

DIY projects are very popular, but the plain truth is that not all home-based projects are good choices to do yourself, and installing a whole-home air conditioner is never a good choice. Why? First, you’ll need expert knowledge of how air conditioning and electrical systems work. Second, if you have a ducted system, you’ll need extensive knowledge of how duct systems work. Then there’s accounting for potential mistakes, how much time it will take you and how safe you can be installing the system on your own. In the end, it’s best to leave an air conditioning installation to trained experts.

Size Matters

Ensuring you properly size an air conditioner for your home takes far more into account than just the square footage of your property. In fact, the best way to determine that you install an AC that provides the right amount of cooling is to have a trained specialist calculate the cooling load of your home. This calculation takes into consideration things like:

  • Your home’s orientation
  • Types and number of windows & doors
  • Level of insulation
  • Your floor plan
  • Number of rooms
  • Number of occupants
  • Daytime heat gain

All these factors contribute to your cooling load, and when they are overlooked, can result in the installation of an air conditioner that doesn’t meet your needs.

If you are getting ready to install a new AC, call the company you can trust with all your air conditioning services in Austin, TX: Roznovak’s Services.

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How Can Thermostats Help With Energy Efficiency?

Friday, September 12th, 2014

When we think of saving energy with our household systems, many times it can entail a big change – a new air conditioning system, a new furnace, new windows, etc. But there is a way to become much more energy efficient without having to overhaul your entire system: update your thermostat.

Your thermostat controls the cycling of your air conditioner, and there is a lot of power in that. Being able to precisely to control how you cool (and heat) at all times of the day is a key factor in saving energy. This is why Roznovak’s Services offers thermostat installation and replacement as one of its many air conditioning services in Austin, TX.

Types of Thermostats Available

There are three types of thermostats Roznovak’s Services carries, and each offers important energy-saving benefits:

  • Digital
  • Wireless
  • Smart

Digital Thermostats

Digital Thermostats offer three important features that you won’t get with slide or dial thermostats: precision, easy-to-use buttons and an easily readable face. The precision digital thermostats offer allow you to set an exact temperature, which can help you save energy.

Wireless Thermostats

Wireless thermostats do not need to be hardwired into your heating system. They can be placed anywhere and usually come with a remote control for convenience. But the most important energy-saving aspect of wireless thermostats is that they are programmable: they can be programmed in 7 day increments that can be looped or changed as needed. Programming allows you to set temperatures that can accommodate for times of low-to no occupancy, weekends and vacations; the result less energy usage.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats offer you precision, programmability, energy usage reports and remote access from virtually anywhere. By downloading a simple app to your smart device(s), you can track, monitor, program and change your energy usage from anywhere that you can access the internet.

Upgrading your thermostat can help you to be more energy efficient, save money and improve your comfort level, all at the same time. Thermostat installation is just one of the many air conditioning services we offer in Austin, TX. Interested in upgrading your thermostat? Call Roznovak’s Services today.

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Does a Heat Pump Really Cool and Heat?

Friday, September 5th, 2014

Heat pumps are very versatile devices because, yes, they can both heat and cool. The reason they can do this is because they have a component called a reversing valve that allows them to switch modes between heating and cooling. Heat pumps are complex, so if you are in need of air conditioning services in Austin, TX, call the professionals you can count on: Roznovak Services, Inc.

What Is a Reversing Valve?

A reversing valve is the component in a heat pump that changes the direction of the refrigerant flow. Every reversing valve operates in two states: relaxed or energized. Depending on the valve’s manufacturing, the state dictates what happens. For instance, one manufacturer may designate that relaxed provides cooling, while another designates that energized provides cooling. Whatever the designation of one state, the other state is always the opposite.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one place to another; they use refrigerant to facilitate the transfer. In cooling mode, a heat pump works just like an air conditioner: it removes the heat and humidity from the indoors and transfers it outdoors. During winter, the heat pump absorbs heat from the surrounding area and transfers it into your home. Heat pumps use no fossil fuels and very little electricity, which make them very energy efficient.

What Are the Benefits of a Heat Pump?

We already touched on a couple of benefits of heat pumps – that they both heat and cool, and they are very energy efficient – but there are a few more benefits worth noting:

  • Long lifespan – heat pumps have an average lifespan of 20-25 years, which is almost twice that of an air conditioning system.
  • Balance humidity levels well – heat pumps keep healthy humidity levels year-round, including during winter, during which many people experience dryness because of combustible types of heat.
  • Very green – a heat pump doesn’t use fossil fuels and emits no greenhouse gases, so they are very environmentally-friendly devices.

If you are looking for a 2-in-1 type of device for your home that is also efficient and environmentally friendly, you may want to consider the installation of a heat pump. Roznovak Services, Inc. has offered air conditioning service for customers in Austin, TX since 1979, and we can help you with all your AC needs.

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