Purl's Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Fresno’

A Brief Guide to Installing a New Air Conditioning System

Thursday, August 29th, 2013

If your air conditioning system has failed permanently or if you’re moving into a brand new home, make sure that you call a Fresno air conditioning installation professional. Getting your new AC installed by the professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning is one of the best ways to make sure that the new system works well and lasts for as long as possible. We often get asked by our customers about how the installation process actually works. Here’s a quick description of what the process is like. Give us a call if you have any questions.

Fresno Air Conditioning Installation Process

One of the most important decisions that needs to be made is what type of air conditioning system you want to have installed in your home. There are a number of different types of AC systems available on the market and our technicians will help you figure out which system is right for your home. You’re probably familiar with central AC systems but there are others out there such as heat pumps, package units which contain both a heater and AC system, and ductless mini split systems that allow you to dispense with ductwork.

Once you decide what type of system works for your needs, you need to determine exactly what size system is good for your home. Different air conditioning systems have different cooling outputs. If you get an AC that is too powerful or too large for your home it could negatively affect the comfort and efficiency of your home. Likewise if your AC is too small it won’t be able to cool your home. Our experts will run all the necessary calculations to determine exactly what size system is right for your home.

Next, our specialists will install your new air conditioning system at your home. The years of training and experience that we have will allow us to provide you with the quality and speed of service that you deserve. There are huge benefits to calling your local contractor for professional Fresno air conditioning installation services. Not only will the job be completed faster, but it will also be completed with high quality.

No matter what kind of AC unit you want installed, call Fresno air conditioning specialists Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning for air conditioning installation services that you can trust.

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How A Bad Capacitor Affects Your Air Conditioner

Wednesday, August 21st, 2013

When you set your thermostat to a certain temperature you expect that your air conditioning system will automatically turn on and start to remove heat from your home. But if your system won’t turn on or if only parts of your system are running it could be the fault of the capacitors in your HVAC system. Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning is proud to offer a full range of air conditioning repair services in Fresno, CA and we wanted to share a little bit with you about capacitors. Give us as call today if you have any questions or if you’re having any problems with your air conditioning system.

Fresno Air Conditioning Repair FAQ: Capacitors

Capacitors are kind of like an energy booster for the motors in your air conditioning system. They store energy and deliver it to the motors when they need. Your AC has a couple critical motors that use capacitors: both the fans each have their own capacitors and the compressor motor also has its own. If any of these capacitors fail then those motors won’t be able to start up. As a homeowner, you can determine which capacitor is out by listening to your system. If you hear a low, electronic hum coming from any of your components it could be the motor trying to start up on its own and failing. Also, if you only hear certain components running then you can determine that the capacitor for the failing component needs to be replaced.

Also, if you aren’t getting enough cooling in your home it could be the fault of the capacitor. For example, your compressor is there to compress a refrigerant that is used to remove heat from your home. If the compressor doesn’t start up then the AC can’t remove heat. If the fan motors’ capacitors aren’t working then the system won’t be able to push cool air into your home which will likely leave you uncomfortable.

For any air conditioning repair service that you need, call the Fresno air conditioning specialists at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

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How Does a Thermostat Work?

Friday, August 16th, 2013

The thermostat serves as the control panel for your air conditioning system, allowing you to set the temperature and cool your house. Older thermostats used mercury switches to function, while newer ones are almost exclusively digital: allowing them to add convenient features like automatic activation. You may wonder how exactly they work, especially in an area like Fresno where temperatures climb during our hot Central Valley summers. The specifics depend on the type of thermostat you have.

Older thermostats placed several wires in a small vial which contained a measure of mercury. One wire stays in contact with the mercury at all times. The other two sit on either side of the vial and are attached to thermometer coils on the ends. When you adjust the heat or the cooling controls, the thermostat tips the vial, putting the mercury in contact with one of these wires and activating the heating or cooling cycle. The coils unwind until they tip the vial again, moving the mercury and shutting the system off.

Digital thermometers are much more complex, utilizing electronic components to perform the same function as mercury thermometers. Specifically, they use a device called a thermistor, which permits shifts in electrical resistance when the temperature changes. A microcontroller can gauge the level of resistance in the thermistor and convert that to an actual number. When that number is hit, the system turns the heat or the cool air on and off as needed. That allows users greater control over the process. For instance, they can set the thermostat to automatically turn on at a specific time, then turn off again when the goal temperature is reached.

When thermostats break down, it pays to call on an air conditioning professional in Fresno to enact repairs. The mercury in older thermostats is hazardous and requires a qualified air conditioning technician to approach properly. Newer thermostats may utilize a number of different components, and still require the proper know-how to properly connect to your air conditioning system. If you are experiencing problems with your thermostat, or you’d like to replace an older model with something more up to date, contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Our service technicians can travel to anywhere in the Fresno, CA area and can handle whatever air conditioning needs you may have.

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New Residential New Construction Air Conditioning Installation

Friday, August 9th, 2013

Are your building the home of your dreams? Or just constructing a second home that you can rent out? Whatever your plans are for that new plot of land, you need to make sure that it has the HVAC it needs to offer comfort year-round. During the summer months, it gets hot in Fresno, and your air conditioning system needs to be able to fend off the heat of the sun. The best way to start off your home on the right foot is with a professionally installed air conditioning system that matches the unique needs of your new home. At Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning, we offer excellent new construction air conditioning installation throughout the Fresno area, for homes of all shapes and sizes.

There are various considerations to keep in mind when thinking about your new HVAC system. Here are just a handful:

  • Size. When it comes to new HVAC installation, few things are as important as the size of the system. Your HVAC project manager will look closely at various parameters when determining how much cooling you need to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient. A load calculation of the living space will take into consideration not only the volume of indoor air, but also the condition of the windows and doors. When that’s done, we can then recommend a variety of system and brand options depending on your cooling preferences.
  • Budget. Another important consideration must be your budget. How much are you willing to spend? How important is long-term energy savings to you? When it comes to choosing a new system, it can make things a lot easier when you have a ballpark range for how much you can spend on your HVAC system. Working in consultation with a professional to figure out an accurate estimate is also essential.
  • Ducts or no ducts? New residential HVAC construction has a certain advantage over working on existing systems. Installing ductwork when the walls are open and there is plenty of space is often far easier than having to replace ducts that were installed years ago. But you also need to decide whether you want ducts at all, or whether you would like to opt for a ductless system.

Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today. We can make sure that your Fresno air conditioning services are well taken care of.

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Replace vs. Repair: How to Make the Call

Wednesday, July 24th, 2013

This summer you’re going to be running your air conditioning system a lot to stay comfortable in the heat. This increased use can result in you requiring more repair for your AC system. If your AC is in need of repairs make sure that you call the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. There are a few common issues that can arise and we wanted to put together a quick explanation of how you can know when you need repair and when it’s time to replace it.

Common Air Conditioning Repairs

If you’re having any of the following issues with your air conditioning system make sure that you call for repair immediately.

  • Not enough cooling – If your air conditioning system is blowing warm air or if it isn’t producing enough cooling, it likely means that your home is uncomfortable and that you need repair. It could be that the coils in your air conditioner are dirty, that you have low refrigerant, that the filter is clogged or the compressor is leaking.
  • Strange noises – If you start to hear any new noises from your air conditioner or if it starts to operate at a higher volume it usually means that something is wrong. Squealing can indicate that your fan motor belt is old and needs replacing. Hissing often means that you have a refrigerant leak somewhere. Gurgling can signify that you have low refrigerant.

Fresno Air Conditioning Repair Tip: When Should You Replace Your AC?

But when should you replace your air conditioning system as opposed to repairing it. Here’s a general guide for homeowners to use when they start to have issues with their air conditioner.

  • Age – Consider the age of your air conditioning system when it starts to break down. If your AC is old and it needs to be fixed, it could make a lot of financial sense to replace your system instead of paying to repair it.
  • Frequent repair – When you start to notice that your air conditioning system is requiring more frequent repair it could mean that it is on its way out and needs replacement.

If you need  air conditioning system repaired or replaced, call the Fresno air conditioning specialists at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

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How To Minimize The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

Thursday, July 18th, 2013

Are you looking for a way to improve your cooling performance while also minimizing repair needs? With professional installation, you can make sure that your air conditioning performs properly and efficiently for years to come, but only when paired with the appropriate maintenance. Your air conditioner is comprised of various components, including a compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, and the blower motor, not to mention the lineset, weatherized housings, and electrical parts, among others. All of these parts have a role to play, and they all must cooperate in order to produce the cool air that you enjoy on a daily basis. But there comes a time when repairs are necessary and inevitable. Call the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for all of your AC repairs and maintenance service.

So, how do you minimize the need for air conditioning problems? Let’s have a look:

  • Clean and replace your air filter. The air filter is designed to prevent the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other debris on sensitive system components. That is its sole purpose, although there are some supplementary indoor air quality benefits as well. In order to do its job well, however, it needs to be kept clean. A dirty or clogged air filter can actually begin to work against your cool air instead of protecting it. Make sure you clean your filter regularly and replace it about once a month during the cooling season.
  • Keep your outdoor unit free and clear of debris. Whatever type of air conditioning system you have, some of your components are located in the outdoors, and for that reason, they are subject to much different environmental conditions. Dirt, dust and debris inside the housing should be cleaned by a professional, but make sure that you keep the surrounding area clear of debris that can get in the way of the refrigerant cycle.
  • Enroll in routine maintenance. There’s no substitute for pro maintenance. During these maintenance visits, your AC will be cleaned, tuned-up and thoroughly inspected to maximize cooling performance and efficiency.

Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for excellent air conditioning repair and maintenance services throughout the Fresno area.

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How Dirt and Dust Cause The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

Wednesday, July 10th, 2013

Are you suffering from inadequate cooling or stuffy air in your home? When was the last time you had your AC cleaned? Dirt and dust are the major causes of many air conditioning problems that can develop within your HVAC system, no matter what type it is. Professional installation should be followed up with routine maintenance if you want to make sure you get the most out of your AC for the years to come, but occasionally, such wear and tear takes a toll and repair needs become necessary. Make sure you hire a reputable Fresno air conditioning repair technician to take care of your repair needs. Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today.

Here are some common problems caused by dirt and dust:

  • Dirty condenser coils. For most types of air conditioning systems, your condenser coils are located outdoors where the compressor resides. Because of their location, they are subject to all kinds of debris and when the coils become dirty, they can no longer effectively dissipate thermal energy into the outdoor air. Because they play such an essential role in keeping your home cool, your coils must be kept clean at all times.
  • Frozen evaporator coils. The same goes for your evaporator coils. These indoor coils are also subject to dirt and dust accumulating on their surface. But the primary cause of frozen coils is also caused by debris accumulation. Your air filter is designed to protect the components of your AC, but when it becomes excessive dirty or clogged with debris itself, it can trap cold air inside the air handler, which can lead to frozen coils. By keeping your air filter clean at all times (check it at least once a month) during the cooling season.

Like any other mechanical system, your AC will simply not work well when it is subject to dust, dirt, and other debris. Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for air conditioning repair service in Fresno, CA. We can handle any job, large or small.

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How Dirt, Dust, and Debris Can Impact Your Air Conditioner

Wednesday, June 19th, 2013

When the heat of summer is upon us, the last thing that you want to deal with is a broken down air conditioning system. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not realize that there are a number of issues that can develop with their air conditioning system that can really take a toll as the summer progresses. One such problem is the buildup of dirt, dust and debris on various components of your air conditioning system. We all like to maintain high indoor air quality in our homes to keep comfortable, but airborne pollutants can actually hinder the operation of your AC as well. Here are a few examples of this from the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

One major way that dirt, dust and other debris in the air in your home can impact the performance of your air conditioner is by clogging up the air filter in your AC system. While it is true that the whole purpose of this air filter is to trap such pollutants, many homeowners are mistaken as to why it does so. The purpose of this air filter is not to improve indoor air quality, but rather to protect the condition of your AC. It prevents dirt and debris from accumulating on the interior components of its system to keep it operating properly.

If, though, you do not change your air filter regularly, particulants may bypass the filter, free to build up within your system. The added airflow resistance a clogged filter creates can also decrease the efficiency of your system, as it works harder to force air through. This increased strain can damage your system.

When dirt, dust and other debris builds up on vital components, such as your evaporator coils, your air conditioner will not be able to cool your home efficiently or effectively. Your condenser coils can ice up, which will prevent them from functioning properly. Do not let dirt on your coils hinder the performance of your air conditioning system.

For more information about the impact of dirt and other pollutants on your air conditioning system, contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today. We have the tips you need to cool your home effectively and reliably. Let our Fresno air conditioning repair pros help you keep your cool this summer.

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The Relation between Air Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

Tuesday, June 18th, 2013

The air conditioning system in your home moves a ton of air during its operation. It is responsible for pushing huge volumes of air through your ductwork and into your home. Because of that, it has a huge impact on the quality of the air that it is moving. The Fresno air conditioning professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning have years of experience working with all different kinds of AC systems and air quality products. We wanted to share a little bit about how your AC can impact your home’s air quality.

Air Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

Your air conditioning system is a huge component of your home. But it can do more than just cool the air in your home—it can also be used as a powerful indoor air quality control system. If you need any type of air conditioning services in Fresno, CA, just call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Check out a few of the ways that you can use your air conditioning system to clean your air.

  • Humidity control – Your air conditioning system naturally provides dehumidification. As the warm air form your home passes over the cooling coils, the moisture gets deposited on them in the form of condensation. Running your air conditioning system is a great way to not only cool your home but also keep humidity under control. The Fresno air conditioning professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning can repair any issue that you might be having with your AC system.
  • Air filters – Many different brands of air filtering products can be installed in the air handler or ductwork of your AC system. These filters remove a large range of contaminants like dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen and many other pollutants. By running your air conditioning system you actually can get cleaner air.
  • Germicidal lights – UV germicidal lights are another great way that you can clean your air just by turning on your AC. UV germicidal lights are also installed in your air handler or ductwork. They destroy organic contaminants like viruses, mold spores and bacteria as they pass through the ducts and the UV light.

If you’re interested in air conditioning installation, repair or maintenance in Fresno, CA, call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. We can also talk with you about improving the quality of air in your home with air filter, duct cleaning, UV germicidal lights and more.

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What You Need to Know About Your Air Conditioning Installation

Wednesday, June 5th, 2013

When it comes time to have a new air conditioning system installed there are a few considerations that you need to make. The Fresno air conditioning installation professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning have years of experience installing all different makes and models of AC units and we can help you pick out a new system that matches your home’s needs and your budget. We wanted to help our customers with their new AC system by putting together a few of the things that they should consider before getting an air conditioning installation.

Fresno Air Conditioning Installation

Whether you’re having a new air conditioning system installed in a new home or if it has come time to replace your current system, getting professional installation for your new AC unit is normally recommended. One of the most common causes of air conditioning problems is poor installation. There are a number of things that can go wrong with your new air conditioning system if you don’t get professional air conditioning installation in Fresno. These are a few of the things that you may want to think about before you decide which system to get for your home.

  • SEER rating – The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) describes how much cooling a unit produces and how much energy they use to do that. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system is. Typically, a SEER rating of 14 is required to receive Energy Star certification.
  • Cooling capacity – You want to make sure that your new air conditioning system is capable of providing enough cooling for your home. But you also don’t want to get one that is too large. Finding the right-sized system is one of the most important steps in the process and one that a professional contractor will help you with.
  • Type of system – When it comes to air conditioning systems, there are a variety of systems to choose from. Of course there is the standard central air conditioning system. But there are a couple other types that you may want to consider.
    • Heat pumps – If you’re interested in a high-efficient and convenient system that provides both heating and cooling then a heat pumps is a great option. These types of systems are very durable and offer consistent heating and cooling.
    • Ductless mini split systems – Ductless mini split air conditioning and heating systems are another high-efficiency type system. They allow homeowners to avoid the energy loss that is generally associated with ducts. They also provide zone control so that homeowners can control the temperature in different sections of their homes independently of each other.

No matter what kind of system you want, the Fresno air conditioning installation experts at Purl’s Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning can get the job done fast and with good quality.

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