Blog

Nov '20

Does Furnace Need Maintenance?

Why HVAC maintenance is important

Are you finding your utility bills getting higher for no reason, especially at peak seasons when your HVAC system is running most? One of the best reasons to get regular HVAC maintenance is to save money. When your air conditioner and heater is running efficiently, it costs less to run it. If your system is well-maintained, it will run efficiently, and you’ll save money.

Regular preventative maintenance will also save you money on repair costs. Let’s say you’ve scheduled furnace maintenance in the fall before winter’s chill really sets in, and the HVAC technician discovers a fan motor isn’t working quite right. Every part of your heating system relies on the others to work right. A broken, failing fan motor could lead to your furnace overheating, and, if left alone, that could lead to expensive repairs or even premature system replacement. If the technician catches the problem soon enough, the fan motor can be repaired or replaced and you’re not out thousands of dollars on a new system. If you want to save money with air conditioning & heating maintenance in Cumming, GA, set up a maintenance plan with Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning by calling 678-203-4784.

What is included in furnace maintenance?

When you set up a furnace maintenance service, you’re getting a thorough tune-up and inspection of your system. This means every component is checked, adjusted, cleaned or lubricated, and tested. Specifically, your HVAC technician will:

Inspect vents and air intake grilles and remove anything blocking them.
Look at the heat exchanger and make sure it’s not damaged or corroded.
Check and test blower motor for amp draw and check the electrical connections, replacing and repairing damaged wiring.
Inspect burners and sensors and examine belts for damage.
Inspect and calibrate the thermostat.
Clean or replace the air filter.
Test safety controls and the start-up cycle.

How often should you have your furnace serviced?

You should schedule regular furnace maintenance at least once per year. It’s preferable to schedule this maintenance service in the fall before usage hits its peak in the winter.

Are furnace maintenance plans worth it?

Signing up for a furnace maintenance plan can be valuable in some instances. While you might get lucky and never need a repair, a maintenance plan can offer you a little peace of mind knowing your system is working efficiently. You’ll also be alerted to any potential problems that can be prevented before they create real havoc for your system, such as overheating. Regular maintenance will also benefit older HVAC systems, especially if they are older than 10 years. Moreover, some manufacturer’s warranties are voided if you do not sign up for a plan. Plans are also generally inexpensive, and often can be paid in installments.

Furnace maintenance tips for winter

While having a regular maintenance plan in place can save you money over the long term, as you prepare for winter, you can follow these tips to ensure your heater is going to keep you warm throughout the season:

Change the filter regularly, about four times during the year.
Set up a regular professional maintenance plan, especially if the unit is 10 years old or older.
Check your warranty so you know what’s covered and for how long if repairs are needed.
If need repairs, don’t try to fix it yourself. Rely on experts like those at Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning.
Clean your air ducts, especially after any home renovations or other repairs.

Is furnace cleaning worth it?

You want to keep your furnace running as smoothly as possible through the coldest part of the year. With yearly furnace maintenance, service components are cleaned and lubricated as needed. And while this will keep your system serviceable, it might not get rid of all the dirt, dust, and grime that accumulates over the years. From time-to-time, you might want to have your whole HVAC system cleaned. A thorough cleaning includes the furnace and air conditioner as well as your air ducts. This will clear the dust and debris in the air that your furnace circulates when it is heating your home.

How do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced?

No matter how often you perform furnace maintenance, your furnace will eventually come to a point where it needs to be replaced. Some common signs that will alert you that it’s time to replace your furnace include:

Unusual odors, like a strong smell of fuel or burnt odor that doesn’t go away
Turning the unit on and keeping it on is difficult
Discoloration of the pilot light, especially if the light is yellow and not blue
No heat or low heat is produced
Noises like persistent whistling, groaning, or banging
Reduction of air quality
Carbon monoxide detector inside the unit gets tripped

HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings

HVAC systems for commercial buildings also need to have regular maintenance at least yearly. As with a home, furnace maintenance should be performed in the fall, while air conditioner maintenance should be performed in the spring. Whether residential or commercial, when you need furnace maintenance in Cumming, GA, get help from the trusted professionals at Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning. You can set up a maintenance plan by calling 678-203-4784.

Sep '20

When is the Best Time to Get HVAC Repairs?

How often should HVAC be serviced?

Here in the deep south, the summers are hot, humid, and muggy, especially here in Georgia. We’re close to the coast, so that ocean air just comes up on land and stays for three or four months. That is why professional HVAC repair is important to businesses and residents alike.

Knowing how to HVAC repair is an important business here, and the professional HVAC repair contractor will advise customer if HVAC repair or replacement is the better choice. What is HVAC repair? HVAC is the acronym for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and HVAC repair is the process of repairing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Industry experts recommend you should have your HVAC serviced by a professional once every six months. In the meantime, though, there are things a homeowner should do as maintenance steps:

The HVAC Filter: This is the least expensive thing you can do for your part of the maintenance but can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars in HVAC repair costs. The air filter should be changed or cleaned every thirty days. If you have indoor pets, love in an area with a lot of construction or traffic you may need to change or clean it every two weeks. Same every two weeks if any occupants in the house have allergies or respiratory issues, or if you have several pets indoors.
The Outdoor Condenser Unit: The outdoor component to your HVAC system is built for the outdoor elements, but it does not need to have debris and dirt collected and sucked upon it. As a homeowner, part of your HVAC maintenance is keeping the area immediately around the outdoor unit clean and clear. Keep the grass trimmed away from the fan blades are clean will keep the need for HVAC repairs minimal.
The Drain Lines: There is a drain line on ever air conditioner where the moisture that is pulled out goes. Every month when you change or clean the air filter, you should also check and clean the drain line too and clean it. If the drain is allowed to get clogged, it can back up into the system and require HVAC repair, which can get expensive depending on how extensive the damage.

Is HVAC tune up worth it?

Yes! An HVAC tune-up is less than an HVAC repair, and much cheaper than an HVAC replacement. Think of your HVAC system like your car. You get a tune up for your car on a regular schedule, which includes changing the filter, oil and cleaning pieces of the machinery that makes your function. The same is true with an HVAC. Consider the following benefits of an HVAC tune up:

Normal wear and tear issues are addressed during an HVAC tune-up, keeping your unit from breaking down at an unexpected time, saving you’re the expense of an HVAC repair call.
When your HVAC does breakdown, until your HVAC repair technician arrives, you’re without cooling.
An HVAC tune-up will give your unit the best opportunity to perform at its highest capacity and keep the energy consumption minimal.
A longer lifespan for your HVAC system. Routine maintenance is essential to get the longest life possible at the optimal performance level.

What is the life expectancy of a HVAC system?

An HVAC system is a significant investment, so taking are of it is essential to getting most lifetime you can from the unit. In general, the majority of HVAC systems will work fifteen years, some can last twenty-five years. There are several factors that contribute to the longevity of an HVAC system and the amount of HVAC repairs your system will need. Things that can reduce your HVAC system’s life span include: :

Poor maintenance routine
Poor quality initial components
Oversized or undersized system
Improper installation
Inordinately high usage
Improper usage
Installation in corrosive or salty environment

With a regular HVAC system tune-up, small issues are found before they become a bigger problem that requires an expensive HVAC repair or replacement.

Why is my AC running but not cooling?

There are several problems with an HVAC unit that will require a professional technician, but there are a few things a homeowner can do before having to make that expensive phone call.

If the HVAC system will turn on and the thermostat is set correctly, the air condenser may be blocked or dirty. Look at the outside component and make sure there isn’t any debris, dirt, grass, trash, or weeds sucked up around it.
Next, check the air filter and clean it or replace it if needed. A dirty air filter won’t let air into the evaporator coil, causing the coil to freeze up and the system won’t cool.
If those two steps don’t get your air conditioner cooling, you’re going to need an HVAC repair technician.

Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?

The biggest difference that will determine the HVAC repair pros and cons is the cost factor. By any immediate measurement, a new HVAC unit is much more expensive than an HVAC repair. However, over time, with several repair calls, the new unit will save you money with energy efficiency that will repay the cost of a new unit.

Your home is an expensive and important investment and the HVAC system is an important part of that investment. If you’re going to have an HVAC system, take care of it and it will take care of your heating and cooling needs for years. Call 678-203-4784 today for your HVAC system repair in Cumming, GA.

Jul '20

Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth The Investment?

tankless water heater installed in a shower

What is a tankless water heater?

When the water heater goes out, it is often at the most inopportune time, like first thing in the morning when you’re in the shower. Or perhaps your current water tank isn’t big enough for your household. Before that happens to you (again?), consider going with a tankless water heater for your next one.

A tankless water heater, or on-demand, instantaneous water heater, provides hot water only when you need it instead of producing hot water with standby energy in a storage tank like traditional water heaters. In our article here, we are going to answer common questions about this new way of having hot water in homes.

Can you run out of hot water with a tankless water heater?

With a tankless water heater system, it heats the water on demand, as you need it; therefore, it never runs out of hot water. Once you know how a tankless water heater works, you’ll agree that a tankless water heater makes sense.

With a traditional water heater system, the large tank holds water it has heated. When you turn on the hot water faucet, the tank has kept the water continually heated. That energy used to keep that water heated is known as standby heat loss.

A tankless water heater systems avoid that standby heat loss by heating water only on demand, i.e., when you turn on a faucet. Because you will no longer have that standby heat loss, the tankless water heater system is more energy-efficient.

What size tankless hot water heater do I need?

Before you purchase a tankless water heater, you need to calculate what size, which takes a little calculating based on the quantity and type of appliances and fixtures that use hot water. These facts will determine the Gallons Per Minute (GPM) and are defined as follows:

Step One: Add up the flow rate of each fixture that uses hot water, considering the gallons per sixty seconds. You can find this information in owners’ manuals that comes with each appliance and fixture.
Step Two: Next, consider the amount of water that will need to be warmed to reach the degree of “hot” desired, typically is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Determine the average groundwater temp for the region you live and subtract the groundwater temperature from the hot water temperature you want will help you choose the right size of a tankless water heater.
Step Three: The next step is knowing the power source you’ll be using. An electric tankless water heater is typically better for a home with less hot water demand and performs better in warmer climates. If your home has a large amount of hot water demand, gas is the better option.

Can I install a tankless water heater myself?

A tankless water heater installation is not a simple DIY project and shouldn’t be attempted by a newbie homeowner that has never worked with an electrical or plumbing matter before. There are plenty of online videos, and some big box home improvement stores have in-store classes. If you are still interested in attempting tankless water heater installation yourself, here are some facts that you need to know:

Not every water heater system can be converted, which is something a professional plumber will know before you spend hundreds of dollars on a tankless water heater unit.
Determine the size of the tankless water heater you need is determined by the appliances and faucets that will require hot water and how much you require hot water.
A tankless water heater comes without any of the required fittings and pipes. Specific tools are needed to do the installation, which a licensed plumber will have already.
The water will need to be turned off at the main. The current water heater will need to be drained and disconnected.
The electricity or gas power will need to be turned off.
The current water tank needs to be removed and disposed of safely and adequately.
A new vent will need to be installed for the tankless water heater, which will need to be wired to the electricity, requiring the services of a licensed electrician.
The new tankless water heater will need to be wired into the power.
If the tankless water heater is gas-powered, new gas lines will need to be installed to accommodate the new tank, which requires welding.
New water lines will need to run and installed, including the pressure relief valve and discharge line, which may require soldering.

Make sure you have checked all building codes and permits. Confirm your homeowner’s insurance coverage just in case something goes wrong. A certified and licensed plumber will have proper insurance, pull any require building permits, and follow all building codes.

Is a tankless water heater worth it?

A tankless water heater is more expensive to install than a traditional tank water heater, but the ROI comes with the amount you save on energy expenses. While an electric tankless water heater saves just over $40 annually, a gas-powered unit saves over $100 annually.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a tankless water heater?

When comparing between tank vs. tankless water heater, look at the following pros to having a tankless water heater:

Pro: Instant Hot Water – once the cold water has flushed through the pipes and faucet, your tankless water heater will provide you an immediate and endless stream of hot water.
Pro: Tankless water heater has a longer lifespan than the traditional water heater.
Pro: Tankless water heater has a lower operating expense.
Pro: A tankless water heater takes up less space than a traditional water heater, usually mounted on a wall where it remains inconspicuous place like the basement.
Pro: There are financial assistance and tax breaks offered by the government.
Pro: Tankless Water Heater uses less energy because the standby loss period is eliminated.
Pro: Tankless water heater never runs out of hot water as the traditional water heater tank does.
Pro: Tankless water heater is electric, or gas-powered and depending on your home’s power set up will determine which is the better choice.
Pro: A tankless water heater has a more extended warranty because they have a longer lifespan.
Pro: For a small home, a tankless water heater takes less space.

The following cons of having a tankless water heater should be compared to the pros before making your final decision:

Con: One complaint about tankless water heater is the inconsistency with temperature.
Con: The initial expense of installing the tankless water heater is more than double of a traditional water heater.
Con: The hot water from a tankless water heater is steady, but it does get overwhelmed and can’t produce enough if too many appliances are requiring hot water.
Con: Additional equipment like a water softener is often required to keep the tankless unit clean and to operate correctly. This fact can negate the space-saving feature of the tankless unit.
Con: If you’re going with a gas-powered tankless water heater, gas lines may need to run.
Con: The ROI of installing a tankless water heater isn’t realized right away.

Looking into a tankless water heater for your home? We can help you make the best choice for your water heater needs. Call 678-203-4784 today.

Jun '20

How Do I Know If My Air Ducts Need to Be Cleaned?

Improving air quality with duct cleaning

As a homeowner, you know that you have certain duties to perform around your home on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly schedule. Some are done without even thinking about it. Some are done with a reminder system, maybe on your iCalendar, and one of those things should be air duct cleaning.

Air duct cleaning, is it necessary? “Necessary”, no. Recommended as helpful, yes. Air duct cleaning isn’t necessary, it isn’t like the air duct police are going to be knocking on your door. However, it isn’t a bad idea and when it is properly done, air duct cleaning can be helpful in some situations. Like a house with filthy air ducts that are infested with insects, rodents, or other vermin.

If you could see the mildew and mold growth in the air ducts, around and in the mechanical components of your HVAC system, you wouldn’t be questioning this why air duct cleaning task should be considered necessary. The purpose and value of air duct and vent cleaning would be apparent and gross, in fact, most homeowners can’t tolerate the nastiness.

What happens if you don’t clean your air ducts?

If you are one of those homeowners that doesn’t believe air duct cleaning is beneficial, think about this for a moment: Has anyone in your home started suffering from allergies or nasal congestion with no prior history? Is anyone, including yourself, feeling lethargic, more than the lazy day here or there? You may be suffering from the results of dirt air ducts. Read on for some other signs that air duct cleaning could fix for you and your family:

Dirty air ducts smell. With mildew and mold building up in the air ducts, a musty smell begins flowing through your house. Regular air duct cleaning will keep that mildew and mold cleaned out and odor free.

Dirty air ducts make your home’s indoor home environment dirty. Cleaning air ducts on a regular basis has proven to ease, even eliminate serious health issues and improve the overall health of everyone in the house. Pulmonary health conditions are the one thing that medical research has found improves with a regular schedule of air duct cleaning.
Dirty air ducts have been linked to the cause of allergies, colds, coughing, and sore throats. The air quality in your home drops a great deal when you don’t have a regular air duct cleaning routine. The dirty air ducts circulate and promotes allergens and bacteria through the house and anyone with allergies, asthma or other breathing issues are sick more frequently. This is especially true for children and the elderly.

Dirty air ducts are inhabited by insects and rodents. Without air duct cleaning, insects and rodents begin nesting, creating a nuisance and with the diseases they carry, they become a serious health threat.

Dirty air ducts are the number one cause of the “sick building syndrome”. Yes, that is a thing and when air duct cleaning is overlooked, allergens, dust, pet dander, and pollen get stuck in the air ducts and accumulate. After some time, when the air ducts are used, that stuff gets blown and distributed throughout your home.
Dirty air ducts speed up the aging process. When we can’t breathe good, we feel tired, but we don’t always realize it is because we aren’t breathing good. By not having a routine air duct cleaning in place, the entire household is breathing in contaminated air from the dirty ducts. When we’re tired and keep pushing ourselves, it ages us faster than it does when we have a good 8 hours of clean air sleep.

Dirty air ducts lessen the efficiency of your HVAC system. Without air duct cleaning, debris and dirt are left, builds up, and impedes the efficiency of your HVAC system. This debris and dirt contaminate the air, adding to the possibility of health issues.

How do professionals clean air ducts?

Professional air duct cleaning contractors use specialized blowers, brushes, and vacuums to clean out the intake, return ducts, and intake throughout your home. A thorough air duct cleaning involves a cleaning the air handler, coils, fans, grilles, housing, motors, and fans through the entire HVAC system.

Can I clean my own air ducts?

Yes, if you know your home needs an air duct cleaning service, but the budget is tight, you can do an air duct cleaning yourself. This isn’t an easy task and will take longer than you may estimate, so plan a full day. Be prepared for insects, mildew, mold, and possible rodent or other vermin. You won’t have the same high-powered, professional equipment and supplies that professionals use, so you shouldn’t expect the same results.

How long does it take to clean air ducts in a house?

An air duct cleaning for a typical single-family home can be completed within two hour or may take up to four hours. Factors that can affect the time are how many technicians are on the job and how many different turns the air ducts have. If you have indoor pets, it could take longer to compete the job.

Can dirty air ducts make you sick?

Definitely! As we covered earlier, allergies, colds, coughing, and sore throats can often be the results of missed air duct cleaning. You can start feeling lethargic when the air ducts need cleaning because you’re not breathing well as you sleep. If your home has air duct without insulation, this doesn’t eliminate the need for regular air duct cleaning. Insulation doesn’t make air duct collect any less debris and dust but could actually suck more into them. Dial 678-203-4784 today for your air duct cleaning needs.

May '20

How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Air Conditioner?

How Do I Know if My AC is Broken?

Are you ready to buy an air conditioner replacement? Here in the southern part of the country, we have already had a few days of summer-like weather. Hot, humid, muggy, and sticky. Many homeowners in Georgia and surrounding southern states have already turned on their air conditioning, and some have already found they need to replace an air conditioner.

Yes, the first day it hit 90 degrees, some homeowners turned on their air conditioner only to be met by hot air blowing or a loud, obnoxious noise or no noise. So, they are now shopping for an air conditioner replacement, comparing replacement cost estimates, and wishing they had been better equipped and informed.

As a homeowner, you never want to experience a broken air conditioner during the summer. You can take a cold shower, but it won’t help for long, sleeping is impossible, and all you can think about is an air conditioner replacement.

Were there any indications this was about to happen that you ignored? No two homes are the same when it comes to the air conditioning system. The ductwork and insulation are going to vary, which side of your house has the most sun exposure, the age of the current system, and how each homeowner uses theirs, and maintain it with air filter replacement and more. These are all things that can make a difference in the lifespan of your air conditioner.

With the help of HVAC Webmasters, we’ve compiled some tell-tale signs that may have saved those folks from paying for an air conditioner replacement:

The digital thermostat display is blank or doesn’t have power
Loud or unusual noises coming from the air conditioning equipment
Water is leaking from the interior part of the unit or if an attic unit, the ceiling has water stains

Things you can do that may determine if your air conditioner is broken or needs a repair call:

Temperature Check

Is the house not cooling off, despite the thermostat being on the air conditioner setting? You could have a problem if the house isn’t cooling off, and an air conditioner replacement is in your near future.

How Does the Air Feel?

If you’re still not sure, hold a hand in front of a vent, and it the air isn’t cold, even with the thermostat sitting in the air conditioner mode, then you could have an air conditioner replacement coming soon. First, though, turn the unit off and wait for the evaporator coils to thaw out and if still not cold air, call a technician.

How Do You Know if Your AC Fuse is Blown?

Any electrical device, especially air conditioning, can only endure a certain heat level until they are damaged. With air conditioners, blown fuses are the most common problem, and when the fuse blows, the air conditioner dies. You may still hear humming, but it isn’t the air conditioner trying to cut on, so yes, you may be looking at an air conditioner replacement, or you may need to replace the fuse only, or an air conditioner replacement plug could fix the problem.

Purchase a voltmeter from your local home improvement store, and following these steps, you’ll know if it the fuse, the electrical plug, or is you need to buy an air conditioner replacement:

Disconnect the air conditioner at the exterior disconnect grey box mounted near the outdoor unit.
Open the disconnect covers, inner and outer, so that the wire is exposed.
Set the voltmeter at zero; then, you’ll see two sets of wires in the disconnect panel. One is labeled “line,” and one is labeled “load” that carries the incoming power, loads the cables, and then sends it out.
Connect the leads of the voltmeters to the lugs that connect the two wires. The voltmeter reading should be between 220 to 240 volts. Such a range indicates that power is getting to the fuses.
Connect the voltmeters leads to the test of the outgoing voltage to the load wire’s lugs. If the meter has a zero reading, the fuse blew.

Should I Replace My 15-year-old Air Conditioner?

Air conditioning experts recommend using the 5,000 rule. Take the age of your unit and multiply it by the cost to repair it. If the price is over $5,000, then the better option will be to replace the unit. Experts say that age is an essential factor when determining to repair or replace a unit. Other factors to consider if air conditioner replacement or repair is the best decision:

Energy Efficiency: The technology in air conditioning has improved over the years. If your current unit is 10 years old or older, it is likely not as energy efficient as it could be.
Refrigerant: If a repair visit finds that your air conditioner unit requires refrigerant, there is probably a coolant leak, and while the recharge this time may fix it, it will likely need coolant again next summer. Repairing the unit is going to be costly, which makes air conditioner replacement more sensible.
High Electric Bills: If your electric bills are getting beyond reasonable, it may be time to consider an air conditioner replacement.

Can I Install My Own AC Unit?

Nope, you cannot install your own air conditioner replacement, no matter how good a DIY homeowner you may be. The electrical components have a high-risk level, and if not done correctly, you could damage the unit or even the wiring in the house. An expert HVAC technician will have the experience and knowledge to ensure the air conditioner replacement you get is the right size for your home.

The famous question is, “Can you replace the air conditioner but not the furnace?” Homeowners who are not expecting their air conditioner to quit regularly ask about the furnace. It is necessary to replace your air conditioner components simultaneously, the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. However, you can get away with replacing only the air conditioner if budget constraints are an issue. If the furnace is 15 years old, if possible, we recommend replacing both.

Need air conditioner replacement in Cumming, GA? Choose the experts at Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning. Call us at 678-203-4784 today.

Apr '20

What Maintenance Does an Air Conditioner Need?

Keeping your AC at its best

With summer fast approaching, are you one of those homeowners that are scrambling to make sure your air conditioner is in working order and ready to go? Do you have any routine air conditioner maintenance during the summer to keep it working the most efficiently?

Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t even check the filter in their air conditioner, much less have an air conditioner maintenance plan. To keep your air conditioner running efficiently all summer, it is important to have monthly air conditioning maintenance frequency. Twice a year, you should have professional air conditioning service and maintenance performed, typically once in the fall and once in the spring. This routine will keep the air conditioning and heat both working properly when you need them.

Is it necessary to service AC every year?

There are many things that require our attention, like paying bills, buying food, putting gas in the car, getting the oil changed, and all those boring but important things. Those are all absolutely necessary things. Is air conditioner maintenance not an absolute necessity?

If your air conditioner is running okay, does that mean it needs monthly air conditioner maintenance? Yes, but what if my AC system is running just fine? Well, we won’t say “absolutely” necessary, if you don’t mind it goes out on the hottest day of the year.

How often should you have your air conditioner serviced?

It is important to have air conditioning maintenance. How often is important too. Maybe more important is the air conditioning maintenance checklist which makes sure they check every aspect of your air conditioner. The following are suggested by professional air conditioning technicians:

Getting a Head Start: Even though you haven’t used your air conditioner for a few months, you shouldn’t expect it to kick right up and perform at peak efficiency. A professional air conditioner maintenance service before summer arrives will make sure it is ready to go that first hot day.
Regular Maintenance is Cheaper Than a Repair or Replacement: No, maybe your air conditioner won’t break down because you skip one year’s air conditioner maintenance service, but why risk it? The cost of an air conditioner maintenance service call by a professional to perform a cleaning and tune up is a lot cheaper than if they are called to repair the unit. It is cheaper than a new unit.
A Voided Warranty: If your air conditioner was in place when you bought the house, it probably isn’t under warranty. If you have purchased a new unit, neglecting basic homeowner maintenance and an annual air conditioner maintenance service call could void your warranty.
Extended Lifespan: Regular air conditioner maintenance service calls will lead to fewer repairs, extend the air conditioner’s lifespan, and improves efficiency, which helps your utility bills.
Lower Your Cooling Costs: For each year you skip air conditioner maintenance service, you are shortening the efficiency of your air conditioner by five percent. How? Your air conditioner collects debris and dust on the evaporator coils which are located inside the house. The outside conditioner collects dust, grass, insects, leaves, and whatever blows up and the unit sucks in. With both units, this blocks their airflow, the heat transfer, and your air conditioner is working harder but as much as 15% less efficient, which is costing you more money.

How do I maintain my central air conditioner?

With a few behavioral changes in your household, you can improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Like, using the ceiling fan will cool a room as much as four degrees and pulling closing the blinds and pulling the curtains during the hottest part of the day will make less demand on the air conditioner.

These are small steps that will add up, but you won’t notice those savings if your air conditioner isn’t performing at its peak efficiency. This checklist is recommended by professional air conditioning technicians as things you can do yourself in between professional air conditioner maintenance services:

Step 1: Seasonal Checks

As spring blooms, keep the grass, shrubs, and tree branches stay two feet away from the outdoor unit. Each month, change or clean the filters and clean the grills.

Step 2: Raise the Temperature

By raising the thermostat, by one-degree can lower your utilities as much as five percent. Purchase a programmable thermostat if you don’t have one already. The ROI won’t be immediately noticed, but you’ll benefit over the years.

Step 3: Schedule A Professional

Twice a year schedule a licensed professional to perform air conditioner maintenance and full inspection of your air conditioning units. They will do a thorough cleaning, flush tie condenser coils, drain the pan and drainage system, vacuum the blower and check the mechanical parts and the refrigerant.

What does an AC tune up include?

The basic air conditioner maintenance and tune-up will include the following:

Condenser Coil Cleaning
Thermostat Calibration
Check and Recharge Refrigerant
Check for Leaks
Grease, Oil, tighten anything needs
Analyze the blower belt and motor

What happens if AC is not serviced?

The first thing you need to about not having your air conditioner maintenance a minimum once a year, you can expect the lifespan to be shortened and your utility bills to increase. The components of your air conditioner include the air filter that should be cleaned or changed every thirty days. When the filters are stopped up with the dirt and dust, bacteria will start growing and blowing it back through the vents. The vents blow that bacteria air into your house for everyone to breathe.

An air conditioner is an expensive component that provides your home comfort. By taking care of the unit as we’ve discussed here, this unit should last you for many years. If you neglect the routine air conditioner maintenance and monthly checks yourself, you’ll be replacing it 10 years or sooner than you expect. Call 678-203-4784 today for your air conditioner maintenance in Cumming, GA.

Feb '20

Is an Electric Furnace Better Than Gas?

Is it cheaper to heat your house with gas or electric?

It can depend on where you live. If you live in a northern climate, with proper care and maintenance, gas heat is more comfortable. To operate gas heat, the cost is less, however, installation costs more.

Electric furnace installation is less expensive but more expensive to operate. In warm climates where gas isn’t readily available, electric heat is the perfect option for heating a home. An electric heat pump is another consideration where gas isn’t available for its energy efficiency and because it works with air conditioning in the summer is another benefit.

The following are pros and cons to consider when trying to decide between an electric furnace or gas furnace for your home:

Gas Heat Pros

Operation is less expensive: Natural gas is considerably less expensive than electric virtually everywhere in the country.
Heats faster: Because gas heat starts heating as soon as the burners ignite, it heats up quicker than electric heat.

Gas Heat Cons

Installation is more expensive: Installation of a gas furnace is more expensive than Electric furnace installation because of the venting required makes it more complicated.
Lifespan is shorter: A gas furnace life expectancy is ten to twenty years.
Requires more maintenance: A gas furnace runs on a combustible fuel, making it yearly inspection and maintenance necessary to assure it is operating efficiently and safely.

Electric Heat Pros

Installation less expensive: Electric furnace installation is less expensive, making it the preferred choice for homeowners.
Installation causes minimal disruption: Electric furnace installation doesn’t require exterior venting, so installation is faster and causes minimal disruption.
Maintenance easy: An electric furnace should have annual inspection and maintenance, but there is less chance of malfunction dangers.

Electric Heat Cons

More expensive over a lifetime: Electric furnace can be 100-percent efficiency, but with the cost of electricity, it is more expensive to operate than gas heat.
Heats slower: An electric furnace takes longer to heat up because it spends a lot of time powering up, thus, it takes longer to heat your home.

What size of the electric furnace do I need?

It is important to choose the right size electric furnace for homes. An Electric furnace installation with a unit that is too large or too small won’t be as efficient, thus costing you more money than necessary. The following information can assist you in calculating the right size for your home.

1,200 square foot house choose an electric furnace size between 36,000 and 72,000 BTUs
1,500 square foot house choose an electric furnace size between 45,000 and 90,000 BTUs
1,800 square foot house choose an electric furnace size between 54,000 and 108,000 BTUs
2,100 square foot house choose an electric furnace size between 63,000 and 126,000 BTUs
2,400 square foot house choose an electric furnace size between 72,000 and 144,000 BTUs

Are new electric furnaces more efficient?

As we mentioned above, electric furnace installation is less expensive compared to gas furnace installation, but when it comes to efficiency, an electric furnace is more efficient than its gas counterpart. An electric furnace has a rating of 100% annual fuel-utilization-efficiency, whereas a gas furnace rating ranges between 55 percent to 97 percent.

How long will an electric furnace last?

There are many factors that can affect the lifespan of an electric furnace, some of which are:

Electric furnace installation — Poor Electric furnace installation can reduce the years of the lifespan.
Electric Furnace Size — An electric furnace that is too small will work overtime and wear out faster. A furnace too large will cycle off/on too much.
Maintenance — Annual maintenance and tune-ups are important to the lifespan of an electric furnace.
Filter Change — Replacing or cleaning the filter is important to giving your furnace a long lifespan.

How do you know when it may be time for a service call? When the current electric furnace buzzing sounds and when your electric furnace is not blowing hot air. An experienced furnace technician can advise you if repairs are feasible and possible or if you need to start shopping for an electric furnace installation.

As you shop for a new furnace, take the information we’ve provided here and done your own research. It is always recommended to go with a professional contractor to install your furnace, as opposed to attempting to do the installation yourself. Having a professional do the installation for safety reasons and warranty purposes. A manufacturer may not honor their warranty if the furnace isn’t installed by a professional. Call 678-203-4784 today for your furnace installation in Cumming, GA.

Jan '20

Is Air Duct Cleaning Worthwhile?

Learn More About Air Duct Cleaning

Your system of air ducts is essential in that they provide a streamlined path to where fresh air can supply cold or warmth throughout each room of the property. Yet there are many parts and connections of a particular air duct system beyond the snaking of boxes and cylinders that make up the system. As time passes or with remodels the path and parts of ductwork can become contaminated or dirtied. In such times, air duct cleaning is often employed to get rid of dust and debris. Yet at other times it may not be needed, if you’re curious to see if your air duct system requires cleaning contact a professional HVAC company to learn more. Until then, here is some general knowledge regarding air duct cleaning that may be of use to you.

Is Air Duct Cleaning worth it?

Air duct cleaning can be useful in providing cleaner conditions when remodeling is happening or when the system is dirty and needs maintenance in general. It can also solve such problems as uneven airflow in rooms and combatting dust and mold.

How does duct cleaning work?

Air duct cleaning will incorporate a variety of different equipment to clean different sections of ductwork. Technicians can use or change up between manual cleaning products or use power brushes to remove the debris inside duct walls.

Does air duct cleaning make a mess?

Air duct cleaning can be messy and usually, it’s best to choose an HVAC company that will use drop clothes to keep debris off of furniture and floors. Plastic guards to protect the walls and trim should also be used for additional protection.

How long does it take to clean air ducts?

Air duct cleaning on average takes about two to four hours for a typical single-family home with at least a crew of two technicians. When there are pets or the duct system is older like with aged homes it may take additional time.

How often should you clean air ducts?

Air duct cleaning should be done every 3-5 years according to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. Depending on certain conditions 2-5 years is recommended as well.

How do I know if my air ducts need to be cleaned?

Air Filters Haven’t Been Changed in Months
You Detect Mold Around or In the HVAC System
There is Visible Dust on Vent Covers and Registers
Noises Can be Heard in the Ductwork
Airflow isn’t Consistent from Every Room

Does air duct cleaning remove mold?

If there is a problem with mold in your air ducts you may see visible growth or notice musty smells. Although air duct cleaning is essential it won’t help with the underlying problem of what is causing the mold. Mold formation begins due to too much moisture in the air or even in the ducts themselves so be sure to speak with a professional HVAC technician to see what needs to be done. Such solutions can be to install a dehumidifier which reduces moisture levels in the air.

Will air duct cleaning reduce dust?

Air duct cleaning will be helpful in reducing dust yet in order to avoid dust build-up it’s important to change air filters every 1-3 months. If there is smoke or pets present every month is more sufficient.

Can dirty air ducts make you sick?

Air ducts will gather contaminants and dirty up like all other areas of a property. In order for mold or dust not to form and aggravate senses air duct cleaning is often a good solution. When air ducts are dirty allergy-like symptoms may emerge like sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose. With dust and mold, you can develop a sore through, experience dizziness, or even get headaches.

How much does it cost to get air ducts cleaned?

Air duct cleaning on average will cost $300-$500 based on such factors like the number of ducts, the size of the home and how they are situated. You may also consider that the average cost per vent for air duct cleaning is around $35.

Contact A Professional HVAC Company For Air Duct Cleaning

When you’re looking for a skilled air duct cleaning service be sure to get in touch with a qualified HVAC company. They’ll be able to conduct inspections, maintenance checkups, or provide tunes ups so your HVAC system will perform well for years to come. When you require new systems they can also refer you to models, like Carrier installations, that will work well with your property. For other property updates like green roofing in Alpharetta, GA you can receive help from a roofer near you. Improve upon your property’s air quality and get air duct cleaning today. Get your questions answered with a knowledgeable representative today.

If you’re interested in air duct cleaning in Cumming, GA call 678-203-4784 with Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning!

Oct '15

Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth It?

completed tankless water heater installation

Making the Transition

Are you tired of losing hot water every time you shower? Is your water heater almost 10-years old? Do you find you are constantly scheduling repair calls for your water heater? If you notice that you are spending more money trying to make your water heater work, it may be time to consider a replacement. There are many options on the market, but one that every homeowner should consider is the tankless heating system. Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning can help you through the whole process. Call us at 678-203-4784 about a tankless water heater installation for your Cumming, GA today.

typical gallon heater before tankless water heater installation

What is a Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater is a way to efficiently heat the water flowing into your home. Rather than wait for a traditional tank system to heat the water up, a tankless unit does it almost on-command. As soon as you turn a faucet on, water is directed through a heating system that warms it up to your desired temperature within seconds. So who would benefit from a tankless heater? Anyone! Any homeowner or property owner that wants a newer, better, more efficient way of heating the water in their house.

More often than not, homeowners choose a tankless unit because of how cost-effective it ultimately is. Yes, the initial costs for this type of water heater are expensive. When compared to a tank and gallon unit, you can feel like you are spending a fortune. However, there are proven savings that you can experience the longer you use a tankless water heater.

Just like typical gallon water heaters, a tankless unit can either be electric or gas-powered. Whatever your home is already set up for, your heater will be able to operate with. It’s important to note that, if you are wanting a gas heater, but your home is set up for electric, it will cost more to make that happen. No matter what though, you can rely on Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning to help. We are certified by the state to work on both electric and gas lines, so we can get you set up with a proper water heater.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater Installation

Believe it or not, but there are many benefits to a tankless water heater. Homeowners are often deterred by the upfront costs, but don’t let them scare you! Tankless units can be expensive, but they can be even more cost-saving. Your best bet is to talk with a licensed contractor, like anyone from Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning. They will be able to go over all the pros and cons with you, such as:

Energy Efficient: Unlike a traditional tank heater, the tankless water heater uses and produces less energy. That’s because it heats water essentially on demand. When you turn the faucet on, only then does it begin to heat the water, very quickly we might add. A 40-50 gallon tank heater has to keep all that water at a certain temperature all the time, wasting energy and money.
Continual Heat: You’ll find that a tankless unit provides more consistent and continual hot water. Most heaters have a window of opportunity, so to speak, of how long you can shower, bathe, do the dishes, etc., before hot water gives out. That won’t happen with a tankless unit. You can run multiple faucets and still have hot water.
Compact/Space Saving: As many are aware, typical hot water heaters are big and bulky. They take up a significant amount of space in your home. In comparison, a tankless unit is significantly smaller in size. That’s because there is no tank to account for. You’ll find a large area of your home open thanks to this unit.
Longevity: One of the best advantages of a tankless unit is longevity. Where a traditional unit may last about 12 years in total, a tankless unit will last up to 20 years! Additionally, there are warranties that can provide you with long-term protection and coverage.

Traditional gallon-sized water heaters are popular because of their low-cost and generally easy installation process. Many homeowners install their own water heaters, but that is not something they can do with a tankless heater. For that, you need to rely on expert knowledge. Anyone at Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning can help you with that. Contact us today to get started.

Are There Disadvantages?

Like any appliance on the market, there are disadvantages to a tankless heating unit. The main disadvantage is sizing. There are multiple sizes for a tankless system and each one fits specific household sizes, needs, and more. Quite often homeowners choose the wrong size and end up experiencing hot water loss. Another disadvantage is sometimes the price tag. Tankless units are, initially, expensive, there is no getting around that. The upfront costs to remove, replace, and install a tankless system are typically more expensive than a gallon water heater. While there are financing and rebate options, some homeowners may not be able to justify those costs.

mounted tankless water heater installation

Schedule an Appointment With Us Today for More!

Connect with Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning today about a tankless water heater installation in Cumming, GA. Our team is available now at 678-203-4784.