How to Choose From Different Types of Space Heaters

December 17, 2020February 28, 2022

Space Heaters. Despite the jokes about living in the desert, East Phoenix residents know it gets quite chilly during the winter. Rather than paying high-energy bills to run the AC all day, you may benefit from purchasing a space heater instead. These handy items can keep a single room warm with relatively little effort and are quite affordable.

Choosing the Right Space Heaters

However, it’s essential that you find the right heater. If you’ve never bought one before, you may be wondering how to choose a space heater that meets your unique needs. Fortunately, you can find the perfect model by considering the following factors.

Noise Level

Every space heater is bound to make some noise while running, but you don’t want one so loud you can’t comfortably watch TV or have a conversation. There are a few options that are nearly silent, including baseboard heaters and oil-filled radiators. However, these have their own pros and cons.

Alternatively, if you choose a fan-forced heater, you’ll have some noise. However, some brands are quieter than others, which means you can find a tolerable option by reading reviews.

Safety Features

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a space heater is safety. Many portable heaters pose a fire hazard as they may ignite cloth that gets too close to the heat source. Others run the risk of burning pets or kids who get too close. Those that rely on electricity may also pose an electrical fire hazard, depending on the construction.

However, there are ways to mitigate these risks. Many heaters come with safety features to prevent injury or damage, allowing you to enjoy their comfort without concern:

Overheat Protection: Like any kind of electrical or mechanical equipment, space heaters have internal components that can be damaged from excessive heat. Many models have an overheat protection feature that causes them to shut off if it exceeds a specific temperature. This not only protects your home from harm but also ensures your heater lasts longer.
Topple Protection: Many space heaters are small units you can place wherever you like. While this is convenient, there’s a risk of toppling if they’re bumped. Some heaters have elements that shouldn’t be in contact with upholstery or carpet, making toppling a fire hazard. However, most portable units have topple protection, which causes them to shut off automatically if they fall from the upright position.
Cool Surfaces: To prevent burns, many manufacturers make units’ exteriors cool to the touch. This allows owners to pick them up even while they’re running, which may be necessary if there’s a spill or other accident nearby. It’s also quite convenient, as owners don’t have to turn the heaters off and wait for them to cool every time they want to move them to a new area.

Energy Efficiency

If you live in East Phoenix, you’re probably familiar with the high-energy bills that accompany summer. Winter is an opportunity to keep costs low by not running the AC. However, if you pick the wrong space heater, you could be stuck with expensive electricity bills anyway.

Fortunately, there are energy-efficient models available. Many manufacturers include energy-saving features to help homeowners manage their carbon footprint and their energy bills. One of the most useful energy-saving features is the adjustable thermostat. Not only does this conserve electricity, but it also keeps you comfortable.

Additionally, many units have timers you can set. This allows you to heat a room for a specified amount of time, after which the unit shuts off. There are also low-wattage models and units with energy-saving modes. Both ensure that you stay comfortable while using minimal power.

Heating Capacity

To effectively heat a room, you need to choose a unit with adequate heating capacity. Otherwise, you’ll still be cold even with your space heater on full blast. You can figure out how much space your heater affects by dividing its wattage by 10. This gives you the maximum square feet of space the unit can keep warm.

Heater Type

Now that we’ve talked about features, let’s look at the heater types. There are a variety of models, some used for decades, while others are new inventions. Of course, each has its own pros and cons:

Fuel-Based Heater: Natural gas, propane, and kerosene heaters are all fuel-based models and were once the only option to heat your home. Today, they’re not recommended for indoor use, as they contain an actual flame. However, they’re quite useful for outdoor areas such as patios as they’re cheaper to run than electric units.
Micathermic Heater: Micathermic heaters are relatively thin, which means they can fit in various spaces. They’re quite efficient and run on electricity.
Fan-Forced Heater: As the name implies, fan-forced heaters have an internal fan that activates when switched on. It blows air across the heating element, causing heated air to filter into your home.
Radiant Heater: Rather than using air to distribute heat, radiant heaters rely on electromagnetic waves. A good comparison is sunlight; sunlight also travels along electromagnetic waves and can heat items it comes into contact with. Radiant heaters are great for open spaces but require a line of sight to experience the effects.
Convection Heater: Convection heaters warm air like fan-forced units, but instead of relying on fans, they allow the hot air to rise naturally. The one drawback is that without a fan, the process of heating can be slow, especially if the room you want to warm is large.

Heater Placement

Where you place your unit is just as important as what type of heater you choose, as the location can affect how efficiently warmth is dispersed. Some models only work with specific placements, so make sure you consider location as you choose your space heater type.

Wall Heater: Wall heaters are installed directly into interior walls. While they’re excellent at warming rooms, they’re not mobile, so where you install it is where it’s going to stay.
Tower Heater: Tower heaters are shaped like desktop towers, though they’re not as heavy. They’re built for mobility, so they’re a great option if you want a unit you can move from room to room.
Compact Space Heater: Compact space heaters are built to be mobile like tower heaters, but they’re usually smaller for greater convenience. They’re also square or round and are intended to warm a small area rather than an entire room.
Baseboard Heater: As you might imagine, baseboard heaters are very low to the ground. They tend to belong, and while you can move them if necessary, they aren’t specifically built to be mobile. Instead, they’re designed to heat whatever room they’re currently in thoroughly.

Contact the Heating Experts in East Phoenix

Are you looking for a solution to cold winter days? Then Superstition Cooling can help. We’ve served the San Tan Valley area for nearly a decade and are proud to offer our heating and cooling expertise to Arizona homeowners. For more information or to get an estimate, give us a call at 480-983-7407 or contact us online.

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Benefits of Getting an A/C Tune-Up

November 23, 2020August 26, 2021

You may have heard that you should get your AC tuned up in the spring and are wondering if it’s really necessary. After all, if you aren’t having problems with your unit, what’s the point of paying a professional to work on it?

The truth is, an annual tune-up is essential to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently. It works hard, especially here in the East Valley, and that use means gradual wear and tear. However, damage may be invisible until something finally gives and the unit stops working altogether.

Why Get A/C Tune-Ups

Maintenance is a preventative measure that can stop that from happening. Additionally, regular tune-ups can offer other benefits that let you get the most out of your East Valley HVAC system.

Increases Efficiency

As your AC runs, it accumulates all sorts of dust and debris inside the ducts. Over time, that builds up and affects the efficiency of not only the ducts but the filter. Eventually, you may start to notice worse allergies and more dust in your home.

Wear and tear can also mean it takes longer for your unit to cool the house. That requires your AC to run more, which can inflate your energy bills.

Extends Unit Lifespan

The better care you take of a unit, the longer it’ll last. An HVAC system that’s well-cared for can last upwards of 15 years.

Maintenance also means fewer repairs throughout that lifespan. How is this possible? Regular maintenance allows technicians to clean and repair parts that undergo a great deal of stress and wear, thereby preventing damage. Of course, the less damage a unit takes, the longer it can keep doing its job.

Prevents Voiding the Warranty

Many of the top HVAC manufacturers have warranties on their units, which is great. As a homeowner, that can save you a lot of money and stress. However, some warranties have a stipulation in the fine print: Homeowners must maintain their units according to professional recommendations. If there’s damage that could’ve been prevented by regular maintenance, the warranty may not cover it. At worst, the entire warranty may be voided, meaning you’ll be on the hook for all future repairs.

Saves Money

When you schedule regular HVAC maintenance, you’re giving technicians a chance to find issues before they become big and costly. Oftentimes, solving a problem early is as simple as replacing a part or clearing out a section.

That’s much cheaper than dealing with a full-on shutdown.

If your AC goes out, the technician needs to spend time investigating the problem. There may even be more than one issue, meaning extensive repairs. At worst, you’ll have to replace the unit.

Prepares Your Unit for Summer

Finally, an AC tune-up makes sure your system is ready for the summer. As the temperatures rise, you’ll likely run the unit more often, which puts increasing pressure on the system. When the system is under the most pressure (which means when the temperatures are highest) is when it’s most likely to break.

Unfortunately, that leaves you in sweltering Arizona heat without AC. You may even need to stay somewhere else while the unit is fixed, which can be a huge inconvenience and additional expense.

A/C Tune-Ups in Apache Junction, AZ

Does your AC need a tune-up? Then the technicians at Superstition Cooling can help. We’ve served the East Valley for nearly 10 years and are proud to offer our expertise. For more information or to get an estimate, give us a call at 480-983-7407 or contact us online.

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When to Replace Your A/C Unit

November 23, 2020August 26, 2021

Stay cool this year in Apache Junction with a fully functional air conditioner. If you notice one of these signs, then it’s time to consider a replacement unit for your home. Find out how you can enjoy an efficient, affordable air conditioner replacement service with our dependable team of HVAC specialists in Apache Junction at Superstition Cooling.

How to tell if you need a new air conditioner

How long do air conditioners last? Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or enjoyed cool indoor air temperatures for years from the same system, it’s important to know when it’s time for an upgrade. Here are three common signs that it’s time to retire your air conditioner.

High Energy Bills

An old AC is an inefficient one. Modern air conditioners have come a long way to reduce the operation cost, so an upgrade can help you cut down your electric bill. The best way to find out is to ask our team at Superstition Cooling to check your SEER rating. This rating details the energy efficiency of your system. Air conditioners with a rating lower than 13 are unnecessarily expensive to operate.

10-Year-Old Unit

Even with proper maintenance, an air conditioner in Apache Junction may encounter significant issues after ten years of use. An older unit is more likely to use R 22 freon, which is an environmentally unfriendly alternative to modern alternatives. Some units can last up to 15 years, but you should expect continued maintenance issues and reduce performance with an over ten-year-old unit.

Costly Repairs

Some repair projects for air conditioners require hours of labor that may be more than a new system’s cost. Before agreeing to a repair service, ask for an estimate of both the repair and replacement services. You may be able to enjoy an updated system with less risk of breakdown for a similar cost.

The Superstition Cooling Advantage

Work with a local leader in air conditioning inspections, repairs, and new unit installations. Your team at Superstition Cooling gives you the affordable rates and dependable services you deserve. Explore the benefits of working with our experienced, local team for your next HVAC service. We offer hassle-free installation services and specialize in other services that keep your home cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and comfortable all year long.

Local Dedication

As a family-owned business in your local area, we’re a dependable solution for local reliability and expertise. We’re proud to service homes in Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, and the surrounding area. Our warrantied AC units are from leading brands designed for maximum comfort and convenience.

Full-Service Maintenance and Installation

Work with the same team for all of your maintenance and new installation services. When it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner, we don’t just remove your old one and replace it with the latest in affordable cooling. We offer routine inspections, emergency repair services, and every other service you need to stay safe and stay cool.

Schedule an AC Replacement Today

Replace an old AC today with the help of Superstition Cooling. Request an estimate for a new system in Apache Junction and the surrounding area. Ask about our financing options to receive worry-free air conditioning at the pinnacle of energy efficiency. Whether your AC isn’t working or you’re tired of high electricity bills, it’s time for a service you can believe.

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Why Is My AC Not Cooling Properly

October 15, 2020August 26, 2021

Given our location in Apache Junction, it makes sense that our most common call is, “my A/C is not cooling properly.”

In this part of Arizona, it’s a big deal when you can’t get the temperature down in your home. As soon as you notice your A/C is not effectively cooling, it’s time to take action. These problems don’t fix themselves, and they often get worse in a hurry.

Why Is My A/C Not Cooling?

There could be a few different reasons your air conditioning is not cooling properly, so it’s important to know what to look for.

We’ll have to diagnose the problem before we can fix it, and time is of the essence when you’re sitting in a hothouse. The good news is that we can normally attribute the problem to one of the following causes.

1. Bad Thermostat Settings

The first thing to check is your thermostat. This is one of the only problems on the list that most people can fix by themselves, so looking here first may help you save some money on HVAC repairs. First, make sure the fan is set to “auto” instead of “on.”

When the fan is set to “on,” it will blow constantly, even when the rest of your A/C system is off. As a result, you may feel warm air coming from the vents.

2. Dirty Air Filter

As far as problems you can fix yourself, this is the next easiest. Once your air filter gets too dirty, it will eventually start to restrict airflow throughout the system.

As a result, your air conditioner won’t be able to cool your home properly because it can’t move the treated air efficiently. Just make sure you’re replacing your filters when they need it. Or, if you have a reusable A/C filter, it’s important to clean it correctly.

3. Refrigerant Leak in A/C

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is responsible for moving heat out of the home, and low refrigerant levels make it impossible for your house to get cool.

Refrigerant doesn’t just disappear, so low levels are a sign that there’s a leak. Have an HVAC contractor to your home to identify the leak, fix it, and restore your refrigerant levels.

4. Failing Compressor

The compressor is what keeps the refrigerant at the appropriate pressure to move heat out of your home. If the compressor starts to fail, your air conditioner will not be able to cool your home effectively. This is one of the most important components of your entire HVAC system, so letting the damage get too bad without an A/C repair can be catastrophic.

5. Dirty Cooling Coils

Your air conditioner has two sets of coils: one indoors to absorb heat, and one outdoors to release heat. When these coils get too dirty, they won’t be able to transfer heat appropriately. Be extremely careful if you try to clean them yourself, or have an HVAC contractor do it.

6. Undersized or Outdated Air Conditioner

It could just be that your A/C can no longer meet the demands of keeping your home cool. Call an air conditioner company to see if you need a newer, more efficient system.

Air Conditioning Company in Apache Junction

Here at Superstition Cooling, we serve the surrounding Apache Junction areas. We know what it takes to keep a home cool in Arizona, and you can contact us at any time to get a fast response and professional A/C service.

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How to Redirect Airflow from AC

September 29, 2020October 30, 2023

How to Redirect Airflow from AC. Your HVAC system is designed to direct airflow throughout your home for consistent temperatures. If your home is feeling drafty, or you’re noticing different temperatures between rooms, find out how to redirect airflow from AC to stay cool and comfortable in Apache Junction. Explore these DIY and professional solutions to keep your air flowing consistently throughout your home.

Close or Redirect a Few AC Vents

Most air vents in your HVAC system have shutters to open and close your vent. Adjust these shutters to reduce or block airflow to a room that feels chilly. This is the easiest way to adjust airflow, but you need to use caution when using this method. Shutting more than 10% of your vents can cause an imbalance in your vents, putting additional stress on your air conditioner. Over time, this can lead to maintenance issues and costly AC repairs.

Common AC Repairs include cleaning the filter, repairing a refrigerant leak, and inspecting the compressor and evaporator coils. Your air conditioner uses gases that can be hazardous to your health and the environment if they leak, so an overworked air conditioning unit isn’t a good time to practice your DIY skills. Ask a qualified technician in Apache Junction to inspect your air conditioning system to spot signs of damage or disrepair. Yearly maintenance can spot early warning signs and keep your home consistently cool all summer long.

To close more than 10% of your vents, work with our team at Superstition Cooling to install a zoning system. We can inspect your ductwork and install dampers and a control panel to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home. This system is easier and more affordable than adding or removing vents.

Add Vent Covers and Extenders

Another option for improving the efficiency of your airflow is using redirecting airflow vents. These specialized vents can be put in place of your existing ones and help you alter the airflow into each room. Reduce a strong draft or warm up a room that has too many vents.

Extenders provide you with a convenient way to direct the airflow to a different part of the room. A popular use for extenders is to use them under furniture. Don’t let an air vent prevent you from placing furniture exactly where you want it. Simply use an extender to direct the airflow out from under a couch, entertainment center, or side table. This is a much easier solution than attempting to relocate your vents. Closing a vent can prevent your living room or bedroom from receiving cool, comfortable air from your air conditioner, so consider using an extender before closing a vent completely.

Work With Superstition Cooling

Choose a family-owned service provider in your area for confident inspections, affordable repairs, and hassle-free upgrades. Whether you need a blast of fresh, cool air or you need to keep your rooms more consistently cooled, our team at Superstition Cooling can help.

Unusual airflow can be solved by a few simple steps, but it may be a sign of an air conditioner issue. Consider scheduling a maintenance service call to learn more about the health of your HVAC system. Request an estimate today to learn more about how to redirect HVAC vent flow and to enjoy leading cleaning and maintenance of your air conditioner in Apache Junction. Explore ways to reduce your energy usage, improve your indoor air quality, and keep your home consistently comfortable all year.

You can call Superstition Cooling at 480-712-1597 or contact us directly. Call us today so that we can help you with your heating or A/C needs!

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Superstition Cooling
6235 E 18th Ave
Apache Junction , AZ 85119

Furnace Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

September 28, 2020January 2, 2024

Furnace pilot light. Your furnace uses a direct ignition or standing pilot light to ignite the gas. When there’s an issue with the ignition, your flame on the furnace keeps going out. Learn more about how your furnace works, why your furnace may not be staying lit, and how Superstition Cooling can help you keep your home warm in Apache Junction. Explore the benefits of working with a local HVAC expert when diagnosing a furnace problem. Serving areas near Lost Dutchman State Park.

How Does A Gas Furnace Work

It all starts with your thermostat. When it registers a temperature cooler than your set temperature, it sends a signal to your furnace. This causes the draft inducer fan to turn on. Furnaces, like automotive engines, use a mixture of air and fuel to ignite. While fresh air is being blown into the combustion chamber, a gas valve opens and delivers gas to the chamber.

This basic process is the same whether you have a natural gas or propane furnace. These efficient systems can easily heat your entire home, but if you have a furnace that isn’t working properly, it can be difficult to determine the problem’s cause.

There are two basic types of ignition at this point. The first is a standing pilot light. This is an older, less efficient type of heating system. The small pilot fire is always lit, so as soon as the gas is introduced, it begins burning.

The other, a more efficient style, is an electronic spark ignition. This system uses an electronic starter that emits a spark when your furnace is ready to light the pilot light. Once the pilot light is successfully lit, a flame sensor sends a signal to open the main burner or burners’ gas valve. There are many slight variations to your furnace’s operation, so it’s best to work with a professional to determine the damaged component, improper sensor location, or other issues that prevent it from working properly.

Common Reasons Your Flame on Furnace Keeps Going Out

A common issue with this process is a flame that keeps going out in Apache Junction. If your furnace doesn’t start at all or is not staying lit, there may be an electrical issue or a problem with your electric pilot light starter.

Here are some common causes of a furnace that lights the pilot light, then stops without warning:

Defective flame sensor
Ignition board issue
Low gas pressure
Improper flame sensor positioning
Airflow blockage

All of these situations require professional assistance. Repairing your furnace requires you to work with pressurized gas lines, electric wires, and combustion chambers. Failure to use proper caution when repairing your furnace could lead to a number of safety issues.

How Superstition Cooling Can Help

Turn to a local leader in a furnace and air conditioner repair. At Superstition Cooling, we understand the importance of keeping your home warm in Arizona. When you work with a qualified technician at Superstition Cooling, you’ll enjoy prompt services, thorough inspections, and effective repairs. We work hard to identify the source of the issue in your furnace quickly. If you have a standing pilot light furnace, we can also recommend an energy-efficient upgrade that can save you on your monthly heating bills.

Request an estimate today to find out why my furnace won’t stay on. Ask about emergency repair services if your furnace isn’t working after hours. Consider having your furnace inspected before winter to prepare to stay warm with an efficient furnace.

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A/C Unit Won’t Blow Cold Air? Here’s Why

August 24, 2020August 26, 2021

Trying to stay cool in Apache Junction in the summer is difficult without an air conditioner. If you turn on your air conditioner and it isn’t blowing cold air, use this guide to help troubleshoot the issue. Find out how Superstition Cooling can help you answer the question, “why is my AC not blowing cold air?”

Dirty Air Filter

One of the most common issues with a central air system or a window-mounted unit is a dirty air filter. Your air filter is essential for keeping clean, fresh air circulating through your home. As your air conditioner operates, your filter becomes clogged with dust, dander, and other debris.

Inspect your air filter for signs of dirt and debris. For most homeowners in Arizona, you should plan on replacing your filter every three months. Homeowners who have pets, family members with allergies, or facing other factors should consider replacing their filter every 30 or 45 days.

Even if your filter doesn’t look clogged, it’s essential to replace it. A dirty filter makes your air conditioner work harder. Over time, this could damage more costly components. A new filter is an affordable maintenance task that you may be able to perform on your own.

Incorrect Thermostat Setting

If your filter is new and your AC still isn’t blowing cool air, check your thermostat. Turn your thermostat at least five degrees cooler than the current temperature reading. Check the fan setting to ensure it’s set to automatic, rather than constant. A fan set to “on” will continue to run, whether your air conditioner is running.

Check that your thermostat is set to cool. Some thermostats require you to change between heating and cooling to turn on your AC. If none of these issues are present, there is a chance that your thermostat may be damaged and need to be replaced. Work with our team at Superstition Cooling to check your thermostat and, if necessary, install a replacement.

Electrical Issues

Your thermostat is the control box for your air conditioner, but many other electrical components can become damaged. Setting your thermostat and checking your breaker are tasks that you may be able to do on your own, but for more complex electrical issues, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Air conditioners use high-voltage lines to operate, so improper inspections or repairs could come with severe risks.

Damaged Air Conditioner

Finally, your air conditioner may be compromised. A replacement part or new air conditioner is necessary to restore your cool, comfortable indoor air. Our team at Superstition Cooling offers emergency service calls to inspect your existing unit. We’ll provide you with an estimate of the repair costs. Some replacement parts are surprisingly affordable, while others may make it a better investment to replace your air conditioner.

Discuss your new AC options with our service technician. Enjoy the latest in energy-efficient cooling and excellent air filtration with a modern AC unit. Ask about financing or other options to make this investment and affordable option.

Schedule a Service Call in Apache Junction

Request an estimate today to learn why your AC is not blowing cold air. Ask for an emergency or scheduled service call to fix the problem and cool down your home this summer. Don’t let a simple maintenance or repair project keep you from enjoying a comfortable home.

Why Won’t My Air Conditioner Work? 7 Common Causes and Repairs

July 29, 2020December 28, 2021

Air Conditioner Issues and Repairs. Here in Arizona, air conditioning is one of the most important features of your home. When summer temperatures become unbearably hot, your house is a cool oasis where you can relax and get comfortable. If you’re reading this to find out why your air conditioner isn’t working, you’re already aware of how critical the solution is. It may take a trained professional to diagnose most A/C problems, but you may be able to get to the bottom of a few common issues right away.

Some of the biggest air conditioner problems are fairly easy to diagnose, and you may be able to save time by inspecting a few things before calling for service. Here are seven of the A/C issues you’re most likely to experience.

1 – Electrical Failure – Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On

One of the main reasons your A/C won’t turn on is that there’s some sort of issue with the electrical components or wiring. This isn’t something you can necessarily fix without a lot of training, but you may be able to diagnose it. To start, check the settings on your thermostat. If it’s set to “cool” and the set temperature is lower than the actual temperature, something could be getting lost between the thermostat and the rest of your system.

You can check the fuse box or try replacing the batteries if your thermostat uses battery power. Don’t try to investigate too much further than that, though, because electrical accidents are extremely dangerous. The most common electrical failures occur because of things like the following:

Failed A/C Capacitor
Dirty or Undersized Fuses
Loose Wiring

2 – Dirty Air Filters

The good news is that this is the easiest HVAC maintenance you can do all by yourself, and it’s also very important. A dirty filter can cut off the airflow to your air conditioner, which causes a wide range of problems like the following:

A/C Overheats and Turns Off
Frozen Coils
Poor Indoor Air Quality and Excessive Dust
Inefficient Operation and Unusually High Utility Bills

3 – Dirty Coils

The part of your A/C system that lives outside is subjected to the elements, so it can get dirty. Normally, you can fix this just by spraying the condenser coil with a garden hose, as long as you don’t spray hard enough to bend the fins. Turn the unit off and clear debris before cleaning this part– never reach inside to clear the unit while it’s still on.

The coil inside your house is the evaporator coil. You can’t spray this part with a hose, but it’s still possible to clean it. Again, it’s essential to turn your system off before you do this. Either use a vacuum with a brush attachment, or use a cleaning product and wipe your coil clean.

4 – Frozen Coils

If your coils aren’t dirty, it’s possible that they could be frozen. One of the good things about living in Apache Junction or the surrounding areas is that you don’t normally have to worry about things freezing. That said, there are still situations that could arise that would cause your evaporator coils to freeze inside the home or business, and you may even get a frozen condenser coil outside.

If you notice your air conditioner blowing warm air, check the coils for ice. Don’t try to remove the ice yourself, because doing this can damage the coils– just turn the system off and wait for it to thaw. Frozen coils normally point to one of the following problems:

Malfunctioning Fan Motor
Low Refrigerant Levels
Reduced Airflow (Dirty Filters, Malfunctioning Fan Mower, or Blocked Air Ducts)
Obstructed Coils

5 – Refrigerant Leaks

Your air conditioner works because of the refrigerant that goes between your condenser coil and evaporator coil. The refrigerant collects heat inside your home, then moves it outside and releases it. For this process to work, you need to have a consistent level of refrigerant in your system. Since the supply should never get depleted, low refrigerant is almost always a sign that there’s a leak somewhere in the system.

In the most dramatic cases, you may be able to hear the refrigerant leaking out of your air conditioner. Another physical sign is that the evaporator coil has frozen because there’s not enough refrigerant to absorb heat. Normally, though, you’re more likely to know there’s a problem when you notice that your home is too hot. Your air conditioner will take an unusually long time to make your home cooler when the refrigerant is too low, and you may even catch your A/C blowing warm air.

6 – Faulty A/C Sensor

The sensor is how your air conditioner determines the current temperature of your home. When this component stops working, your A/C won’t be able to tell the difference between the current temperature and the desired temperature you set. The system can’t identify when it needs to make your cooler, so it won’t cycle on. Turn your system off and take a look to see if the sensor is dirty or damaged.

7 – Air Conditioner Not Working, Turning on and off Quickly

When your air conditioner is turning on and off quickly, this is known as running on short cycles. Short cycles are a sign that there’s something wrong, and it’s preventing your air conditioner from staying on until your desired temperature has been reached. The most common causes for this are blocked airflow or poor refrigerant levels, though other components like the sensor could also be failing.

As far as airflow goes, check your system’s filter to see if it’s dirty or clogged. You should do this at least once every three months, and many people like to do it as much as once a month or even more. Permanent filters should be washed every month– just make sure you let them air dry completely before you put them back.

If the filter looks good, there’s one more thing you can check before calling for A/C repair. See if there’s anything blocking the fins in your outdoor condensing unit. If these get too dirty, or if they’re blocked by leaves or debris, this can cause your air conditioner to turn off right after it turns on. Make sure you don’t bend the fins while cleaning them, and call an HVAC professional if you can’t see what the problem is.

Get Top Quality A/C Repair in Apache Junction & Beyond with Superstition Cooling

Here at Superstition Cooling in Apache Junction, we’re your local source for air conditioning repair in the East Valley. Whether something on this list sounds like your issue or not, we’ll work quickly to find out why your A/C won’t work. Our skilled HVAC professionals use the best tools and equipment to ensure the best possible results.

When you work with our team, you have plenty of options for installing a new air conditioner, repairing your current A/C, or simply getting a regular tune-up. We’re ready to help with just about any type of air conditioning concern you could have, so contact us today to get your home or office comfortable again in a hurry.

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How to Choose the Best AC Unit for You | Superstition Cooling

Types of Air Conditioners: Which One is Right for You?

June 29, 2020August 7, 2021

When your air conditioner goes out during the middle of the summer in Arizona, you have to act quickly. Temperatures regularly rise over 100°F in this part of the world, which means your house can heat up in a hurry. That means you don’t have a lot of time to make your decision. If your current unit is old or needs expensive repairs, your best bet is probably to replace it with a new air conditioning unit. Here’s everything you need to know to choose your next AC unit quickly.

An Overview of the Different Types of AC Units

There are many different types of air conditioning units. It’s important to choose the right one for your home because the effectiveness of each type will depend on how large of an area it has to cool. Choosing an efficient solution for your needs will help you save money in the long run because you’ll spend less money on utility bills. Here are the three main types of AC units we normally recommend:

- Central Air Conditioning Units: This is the most common option by far. Part of the system is installed outside your home, and another part is installed inside the home. The air conditioning system treats air and pushes it to every room in your home through ductwork.
- Heat Pumps: Some people like heat pumps because they can take care of both heating and cooling needs. They’re not great for very cold climates, but you don’t have to worry about that here in Arizona. Definitely ask your HVAC contractor about heat pumps if your home doesn’t have ductwork.
- Room by Room Solutions: There are things you can do if you have one room that doesn’t get reached by the ductwork, or if you have a small space that’s always too hot. Besides heat pumps, other types of ductless heating and cooling systems include window room air conditioners and through-the-wall packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC).

How to Get a New Air Conditioner

The single most important thing you can do is find a knowledgeable air conditioning contractor. When you’re working with someone who is licensed and certified, you can rest assured they’re extremely knowledgeable. Working with a local company that has a good reputation is important, too, because the best HVAC contractors will give you their honest opinion about your options. This way, you don’t have to worry that you’re being taken advantage of in your time of need.

The next thing to do is set reasonable expectations for your air conditioning unit. Many air conditioning units can last for 10 to 15 years and still be functioning efficiently. We’ve heard air conditioning units lasting for 20 years or longer if they’re extremely well maintained. Still, it’s important to recognize the time to replace your HVAC unit.

Call your Apache Junction HVAC contractor, have them examine your home, and discuss your options. The air conditioning company will be able to point you in the right direction. The conversation will be easier if you know the general types of AC units.

Ready Get Started? Contact Superstition Cooling Today!

At Superstition Cooling, we have many years of experience helping customers choose the right AC units for their homes. We work in Apache Junction, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and all of the surrounding areas. When it’s time to choose a new air conditioner for your home, an experienced member of our team will walk you through all of the options to help you get the right unit. Contact us today to start the process of getting your new air conditioner.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Andrii Bezvershenko

HVAC Tips for Newer Home Owners | Superstition Cooling

Just Bought a House in Arizona? Use These Tips to Protect Your A/C Unit

June 29, 2020August 7, 2021

Owning a house is rewarding. Maximize your enjoyment of the experience by taking great care of it to save time and money along the way. One of the best ways to protect your new investment is by protecting the most expensive appliances like your air conditioner. Luckily, there are a number of defined steps you can take to make your A/C unit last longer and work more efficiently. You can do some of the work yourself, then trust an HVAC contractor in Apache Junction when you need some expertise.

How to Effectively Maintain Your A/C Unit

Even if this is your first house in Arizona, you probably have some idea of how important air conditioning is to residents of Apache Junction and the surrounding areas. With summer temperatures that regularly exceed 100°F, you’ll want to be certain you can count on your A/C unit when you need it most. Preserve A/C unit efficiency and prevent costly repairs by taking doing three critical things.

1. Keep Your Outdoor A/C Unit Clean

The part of your air conditioner outside the home is also called the condenser unit. This part of your HVAC system is responsible for releasing heat outside of your home after that heat gets collected inside the home. Unfortunately, things can get dirty when they’re outside all of the time. If you live in Apache Junction, Superstition Springs, or Gilbert, your condenser unit is likely to get coated in dust from time to time.

When this equipment gets covered, it can no longer function the way it’s supposed to. Fortunately, it’s extremely easy to take care of this by yourself. Simply spray this part of your system off with a hose (as long as you aren’t blasting it hard enough to damage the equipment). While you’re cleaning your condenser unit, also make sure it’s clear of debris like branches and leaves.

2. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Changing your air filters is one of the easiest ways you can make your air conditioner last longer. If you have an air conditioner with reusable filters, just take them out and clean them off. Most A/C units rely on disposable air filters, so just put a new one in.

We normally recommend changing the air filter at least every three months. Homes with a lot of people or pets collect more dust, which means you’ll need to change the filter more often. If you suffer from allergies or other breathing problems, you may want to change your filters once a month.

3. A/C Unit Tune-Ups

This is one of the most overlooked ways to make your air conditioner last longer. Many people think they’re saving money by not paying for regular A/C maintenance, but the service will actually pay for itself in most cases. When you have an HVAC contractor come to your home on a regular basis, they’ll be able to identify small problems before they become major malfunctions. Your air conditioner needs tune-ups just like your car does, so stick to the service schedule to prolong the life of your HVAC system.

What Is Included with Regular A/C Maintenance?

When you get an A/C tune-up, a professional technician will run through a complete checklist to confirm that your unit is in good condition. The diagnostic check even covers components that are hard to see. Unless you have experience working with HVAC equipment, it’s best to let a professional inspect things like blowers, coils, refrigerant levels, and the condenser system.

Beyond inspecting all of the parts in your A/C unit, the technician conducting your tune-up will clean everything to enable good airflow. They’ll also lubricate parts and make minor adjustments as needed to help the different components last longer without wearing out. When a part isn’t working quite as it should, the technician will address the problem before it spreads.

As an added bonus, the HVAC contractor will also do some of the little things like check the filter and clean the condenser unit. This gives you that much less to worry about as far as the air conditioning maintenance you do yourself. You get some of your time back in addition to the other benefits of air conditioning maintenance.

Why Get Regular A/C Maintenance?

Avoid A/C Failure

The biggest benefit of A/C tune-ups here in the Maricopa and Pinal counties is that it makes it easier to count on your air conditioner when you need it. Our summers are blistering, and your house can get uncomfortable in a matter of hours if you let your air conditioner wear down until it fails completely. It’s best to avoid scrambling for a quick solution on one of the hottest days of the year.

Save Money on Costly Repairs

Protecting the operability of your HVAC equipment isn’t the only way regular maintenance can give you greater peace of mind. Besides a complete breakdown, the financial aspect is one of the scariest parts of owning and maintaining an A/C unit. Most problems will get more severe as time goes on, which means they’re more expensive to fix. You get some minor maintenance during each tune-up, plus the technician will be able to identify issues before they grow.

Improve A/C Unit Efficiency

Have you ever noticed that your car seems a little bit faster after the first tune-up in a while? The same kind of thing happens with air conditioners. When they’re properly maintained, they’re performing at their peak, which means they can keep your home more comfortable. You’ll experience better air quality and more consistent temperatures throughout the home.

As you increase your A/C unit efficiency, you decrease your utility spending. Your air conditioner doesn’t need as much energy to do its job when it’s operating as smoothly as possible. Even improving the efficiency by a few percentage points can make a big difference when you’re up against the type of weather we get here in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Make Your Air Conditioner Last Longer

This is the final way you save money with A/C tune-ups. Air conditioners are expensive pieces of equipment, and it’s not very practical to live in Arizona without one. In other words, your best bet is to make the one you have last as long as possible.

Your air conditioner will last longer if you get it tuned up regularly. Eventually, of course, you’ll still have to get a new one because nothing lasts forever. Still, you’ll have a better idea of when it’s time to replace your unit if you’ve had an air conditioning maintenance professional working on it consistently throughout its lifespan.

Get Air Conditioner Maintenance You Can Believe In with Superstition Cooling

Superstition Cooling is your local choice for air conditioning tune-ups. We keep Arizona residents cool and comfortable in Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek, and all of the surrounding areas. Our HVAC technicians are highly trained, so they know exactly what it takes to maintain an A/C unit and make it last as long as possible. Contact us today to activate your air conditioning tune-up plan and keep your new home cool.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Africa Studio