Category: HVAC Services

Refrigerant is essential to your AC system, absorbing heat from the air to keep it cool. It’s meant to cycle continuously through your AC system and stay at the same level as it cycles repeatedly. However, sometimes things can go awry, and refrigerant can leak out of your air conditioner, wreaking havoc on your unit and health. Keep reading to discover the signs, causes, and ways to prevent refrigerant leaks.  What is Refrigerant, and How Does It Work in Your AC? Refrigerant is a chemical that cycles through your HVAC system and absorbs heat to cool the air. There are two main types of refrigerant, often called by their brand names, Freon and Puron. Puron is known to be more environmentally friendly and is becoming the increasingly popular choice for AC systems. The copper coils of your AC system are the main location where the refrigerant is found. It travels through your system, changing from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure liquid. As it moves through the unit, it absorbs heat to cool the air and then releases it as it reaches the outdoors.  Signs and Symptoms of a Refrigerant Leak Knowing the signs of a refrigerant leak is essential

When strange noises start coming from your drain, don’t turn a blind eye. Gurgling sounds can indicate a clog or blockage somewhere in your plumbing system. The issue can progress without proper repair, resulting in extensive and potentially harmful damage to your Idaho home. Read on to learn the cause of a gurgling drain and the steps you can take to fix it.  What Causes Gurgling Drains? Gurgling noises occur when blockages prevent water or air from flowing through your drain. When the water can’t pass through properly, air bubbles form, creating a gurgling sound. Three main types of blockages can cause your drain to gurgle: blocked drains, blocked sewer lines, and blocked plumbing vents. Blocked drains The primary cause of a gurgling drain is a partial or complete clog in your sink, shower, or bathtub. A partial clog only blocks part of your drain and causes water to flow much slower than usual. A complete clog will form without proper repair, preventing anything from flowing down your drain. The most common causes of a clogged drain include: Hair Soap scum Dirt and debris Toilet paper Oils and grease Foreign objects When these items enter your drain, they can build

Your air conditioner is a trusty tool that keeps your Boise home cool during scorching hot summers. While units can last many years with proper maintenance, they won’t last forever. When your AC reaches the end of its lifespan, its efficiency declines as it can no longer effectively cool your home. Keep reading to discover the signs that your unit has reached the end of its lifespan and how to determine whether an AC replacement is suitable for you. How Long Does an AC Typically Last? The average AC lifespan is 10 to 20 years but can vary due to several factors, such as the type of unit installed in your home. Central AC systems typically last between 12 and 17 years, while window units last about eight to 10.  The run time of the unit also significantly affects its lifespan. If you’re constantly running your unit, it wears down faster. Like any appliance, the less you use it, the longer it’ll last. Maintenance is another crucial factor in the life of your unit. AC units should receive bi-annual maintenance, during which a technician cleans, tests, and tunes up the unit to keep it running smoothly. Key Signs Your AC

Allergy season in Idaho isn’t fun, especially when it’s exacerbated by musty and moldy smells when your air conditioner kicks on. If your air conditioner smells musty without an obvious cause, read on to find out the most common underlying causes, homeowner troubleshooting tips, and preventative strategies. What Causes a Musty AC Smell? Musty AC smells can pose several hazards to your household’s well-being and your home’s structure. Musty smells typically stem from mold and often correlate with allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and other health concerns. Musty smells also suggest leaks or damage to your home, which can escalate without the attention of a licensed HVAC technician. See the main causes of musty smells below. 1.Mold and mildew A musty AC smell typically results from mold or mildew in your AC system. Many ACs briefly smell musty for a few cycles after a winter of disuse, but a persistent odor indicates microbial growth in your system. AC systems regulate the humidity in your home, and trapped moisture — in combination with bacteria — is the perfect home for a new patch of mold. 2. Ductwork damage Poor insulation and sealing, uncommonly high humidity, roofing leaks, and other factors can result