SuperstitionCoolingPortableACUnitGuide

Portable AC Units

Portable AC Units

Portable AC Units. If you live in the East Valley, you know summers are scorchers. To stay safe and comfortable, you require air conditioning.

Key Takeaways:

    • Portable AC units are much smaller than window models, which means they can be easily stored or hidden when not in use.
    • Many PAC models have drainage tanks that collect water and need regular emptying.
    • Most portable units require minimal maintenance.

Not all living spaces come with HVAC systems. Instead, residents need to find other solutions, such as a portable AC unit, also called a PAC. If you’ve never had one, you may be wondering what benefits it offers and what you should look for when buying. Fortunately, we’re here to help with this handy portable ac unit guide.

What Are the Pros of Portable AC Units?

What are the perks of purchasing a portable AC unit? There are quite a few, though whether you find them valuable depends on your unique needs. Here are the top four pros of choosing a portable unit.

1. They’re Easy To Hide

Window units are large, highly visible, and can completely disrupt a room’s design. On the other hand, portable units are relatively small; most are around 20 inches by 16 inches. Their compact design means you can place them in an inconspicuous area while enjoying their effects. Once you’re done, units can be easily packed away in a closet or other storage space.

2. They’re Affordable

Though once a luxury item, PACs are more affordable than ever. While there are high-end models that can cost upwards of $2,000, most options fall within the $500 to $800 range. If you want a bare-bones AC unit with no bells or whistles, you can get a model for as low as $250.

Still too expensive? The good news is, technological advancements are making it easier to make portable units, so you may have access to even cheaper options in the near future.

3. They’re Easy To Move

They’re called “portable” units for a reason. Though weight varies among models, most PACs are easy to move, which means you can put them wherever you need them, whenever you need them. You can even bring them on trips to ensure maximum comfort on vacation.

4. They Don’t Need Installation

AC units for HVAC systems are large and require expert installation. Even window units take time to install. On the other hand, a portable AC can be set down and turned on immediately.

What Are the Cons of Portable AC Units?

Just like everything in life, portable AC units have their downsides. Again, these cons may not have much of an impact on your decision, depending on your circumstances. However, it’s always good to know the whole picture before spending money. As far as downsides go, here are the five most common.

1. They’re Less Effective in Large Spaces

Portable units are specifically designed to cool small spaces. In other words, you can count on your portable AC to cool a bedroom, but it isn’t strong enough to affect your entire house.

If you have a large space that needs climate control, you’re better off with an HVAC system. To find the best option for installation, you should consult an AC professional.

2. Their Drain Tanks Need To Be Emptied

Unlike HVAC units, portable AC’s don’t have a hands-off drainage system. Instead, many come with a drain tank that needs to be emptied regularly. This chore can be inconvenient, especially if your model has a small tank. Additionally, the tank can leak and cause water damage to the surrounding area.

3. They’re Not as Efficient as Window Units

If you’re looking for maximum efficiency, PACs aren’t at the top of the list. Unfortunately, they produce heat as a byproduct, so when you use a portable AC unit, you’re creating a small bit of hot air as well as a large amount of cool air. Of course, this usually isn’t enough for you to feel, especially in the middle of an East Valley summer, but you may notice a rise in your electricity bill once you start using your unit.

4. They Can Be Loud

PACs have fans, which make noise when they run. The louder models can make it difficult to watch TV or have a conversation. If you have a young child who needs to nap or a dog that barks at loud noises, you should look for a quieter option.

5. They May Not Be Enough During Hot Weather

Temperatures frequently reach the 110s during East Valley summers, which means one little PAC may not be enough to keep the heat at bay. When temperatures climb dangerously, it’s essential you have an HVAC system to keep you comfortable.

What Should You Look for in Portable AC Units?

Now that you’ve decided to purchase a portable AC unit, it’s time to pick a model. What should you look for? Here are the five most important things to consider.

1. Energy Efficiency Ratio

An energy efficiency ratio is a number that describes how efficiently the unit uses electricity. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit.

Energy efficiency is a significant concern for homeowners, as it can affect their electric bills. Additionally, a PAC with high EER is better for the environment, as it minimizes your carbon footprint.

2. Decibel Levels

Decibels measure how loud a sound is. There are regulations designating safe decibel levels, as extremely loud noises can cause hearing loss.

All PACs should meet these safety standards, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re quiet. If you want a model that won’t interfere with your daily life, you should look for an option that doesn’t go above 45 decibels.

3. Required Maintenance

Portable AC units require some maintenance to stay in top shape, but it’s usually not a huge burden on owners. In addition to emptying the drain tank, you’ll need to do the following:

    • Defrost icy coils
    • Clean or replace filters
    • Wipe down housing unit

A clean unit means increased airflow, which in turn means a more effective machine.

4. Room Placement

Where do you plan to put the unit? The room should be small and fully enclosed for maximum effect. Additionally, if your chosen model has a hose to expel hot air or drainage, you’ll need to take that into account. Many models recommend the hose empty outside, so you may need to place your PAC near a window.

5. Size

The more powerful portable AC’s tend to be larger, as they have a bigger motor. As you look through available PACs, keep in mind that you’ll need to balance portability with power.

For most East Valley residents, portable AC units are used in addition to an HVAC system to cool small areas and save money. However, if you find your system isn’t doing its job, you need to bring in the experts.

Superstition Cooling has served our Arizona community since 2012 and is proud to offer fast, effective service. If you’re caught in an AC emergency, don’t worry — we’re available 24/7. To learn more or to set up an appointment, contact us online or give us a call at 480-983-7407.

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Why Is My Thermostat Blank?

Thermostat Blank - Superstition Cooling

Thermostat Blank? Many HVAC system issues are hidden in the ductwork or inside the casing of your AC. However, there’s an undeniable sign that something is wrong: Your thermostat screen is blank.

This discovery can be disturbing, especially if you live in the East Valley area, where summer temperatures are dangerously high. What should you do in this situation? The first step is to figure out the cause.

Why Is My Thermostat Blank?

To figure out if the issue is something you can fix, you need to identify if it’s related to the thermostat itself or your HVAC system. If it’s the latter, you’ll probably need to hire an expert to look into it. To eliminate the thermostat as the source of the problem, make sure to try these troubleshooting steps.

Turned Off

Sometimes the thermostat is just turned off. If you’re not using the AC or heat, it may have automatically shut off to conserve battery. Fortunately, it should be easy to turn back on, as most thermostats have a clearly labeled “on” switch. If you turn the thermostat on, and it remains blank, then you have another problem on your hands.

Low Screen Brightness

Many newer thermostats allow you to adjust the screen brightness. Some models auto-adjust if the surrounding light is bright or no one has touched it for a while. These adjustments are meant to save battery, but they can make your screen appear blank.

If the problem is screen brightness, the display is still functional and can be read in low light. To test if brightness is the issue, first activate the display by interacting with it. If it still appears blank, turn off nearby lights and see if the thermostat is now readable.

If you can read the display, go into “settings” and look for an icon that says “display.” You should be able to adjust the brightness from there. If you can’t find the settings, you can do an internet search for instructions based on your thermostat’s make and model.

Old Age

How old is your thermostat? If the answer is “more than 10 years,” it may be worn out.

Like all equipment, thermostats degrade over time. The good news is, they’re relatively easy to replace. If your thermostat is more than a decade old, you may also be missing out on helpful modern features, so upgrading can add convenience and even save you money on energy bills.

To replace your thermostat, you should contact an East Valley area HVAC professional. Not only can technicians remove an old thermostat and install a new one, but they can help you choose a thermostat that works with your system.

Open Furnace Door

Not all East Valley area homes have furnaces, but if yours does, you’ll need to check the furnace door. An open door is a fire hazard, so many modern thermostats have a safety feature that blanks the display to prevent the system from running in such a scenario.

If you’ve tried other troubleshooting and the thermostat is still blank, check the furnace door. Even if it appears closed, try opening it and firmly closing it, as it may not have latched. Once you’re sure the door is securely shut, check the thermostat.

Tripped Safety Switch

An open furnace door isn’t the only safety hazard when it comes to HVAC systems. Because there’s electricity involved, many systems have safety switches that initiate if the equipment is in danger.

There are two types of safety switches: a float switch and a high-limit switch. The float switch reads moisture and turns your system off if the environment is too humid. If this is the issue, you should hire a professional to inspect the system, as there are several potential causes for a tripped float switch. For example, you may have an AC drainage line problem, or the float switch sensor may be faulty and need replacement.

A high-limit switch, on the other hand, measures temperature. It’s an essential feature in furnaces because it keeps the equipment from overheating and damaging its components or starting a fire. If this is the issue, you should consult a professional, as there are several possible reasons a high-limit switch may trip:

    • The furnace has a broken part that needs repair
    • The sensor in the high-limit switch is faulty and needs replacement
    • There’s inadequate airflow into and out of the furnace

Tripped Breaker

Some thermostats require batteries, but others are connected directly to a house’s electrical system. If something goes wrong with the electrical system, the display will go blank.

The most common electrical issue is a tripped breaker. Electrical systems have breakers that cut power if the circuit exceeds its capabilities, which prevents fires and damage to appliances. You should be able to check for a tripped breaker by looking at your electrical box.

The good news is, if this is the issue, you can prevent it from happening again by limiting the number of appliances you have running on one circuit at the same time. If you need to use many devices at once, try to plug them into different areas of the house to distribute the stress on the circuits evenly.

Wiring Problems

A thermostat connected to the electrical system can have wiring problems, just like any other appliance. If you’ve tried other troubleshooting with no luck, you should contact an HVAC professional to look at the wiring.

Sometimes, the wires have come loose, were damaged, or were of inferior quality. Fixing the electrical system is complicated and poses safety issues if done incorrectly, so it’s essential that you leave this problem to the experts.

Dead Batteries

If your thermostat isn’t connected to the electrical system, it must run on batteries. If you’re unsure which it is, examine the hardware for a panel that allows access to a battery compartment. If you don’t know where to look, you can find instructions by searching the make and model on the internet.

Once you’ve found the batteries, try replacing them. You may have to restart your thermostat. If batteries are the issue, you’ll see the display come to life.

What Should I Look for in an HVAC Company?

When hiring HVAC professionals, you need to find people who know their stuff. Technicians should be well-trained, and the company should have experience working in your area. Additionally, you want a company that values customers and makes quality service a top priority.

So, where can you find such a business in the East Valley area? The answer is Superstition Cooling. We’ve served our community for nearly 10 years and are proud to call ourselves Apache Junction locals. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, give us a call at 480-983-7407 or contact us online. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies, so don’t hesitate to reach out, no matter the time.

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Person wearing socks sitting near a portable heater

Learn About Different Types of Portable Heaters

Portable Heaters - Superstition Cooling

    • Portable heaters can be used in addition to a furnace or HVAC system to address problem areas that remain colder than the rest of your residence.
    • There are many types of portable heaters on the market, each designed to offer different features and benefits.
    • While portable heaters can be fire hazards, many come with safety features that prevent them from harming your home or its residents.

If you live in the East Valley, AZ area, you know how chilly the winters can get. As the temperature drops, you may be tempted to run the heat. However, this can result in high energy bills. What other options do you have to maintain a comfortable climate without paying a fortune?

This is where portable heaters come in. These devices are a great alternative to running your furnace or HVAC system, as they offer effective heating for relatively little energy consumption. Not sure what type to buy? This portable heater guide can help you find the perfect model for your needs.

What Are the Benefits of Portable Heaters?

Portable heaters offer a variety of benefits, the most obvious of which is their portability. You can take them into any room, outside onto your porch or deck, or even on a trip. Most are lightweight and plug directly into wall outlets. With the right model, you can stay comfy no matter how cold it gets in Queen Creek, AZ.

Supplemental Heat

Portable heaters can be used in place of your HVAC system or in addition to it. For example, you may have an area of your home that’s colder than the others due to poor insulation, large windows, or other factors. Rather than raising the overall temperature and potentially making the rest of your rooms too warm, you can use a portable heater to heat that specific room.

Great Versatility

There are several types of portable heaters on the market, which means you’re sure to find one that perfectly fits your needs. You have not only a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, but also a range of heating capacities and even fuel sources.

No Installation

One of the best things about portable heaters is the lack of installation. Getting a furnace or even a wall unit involves connecting the device to your home’s electric or gas system, which requires technicians. Setting up an appointment can be a hassle, and most people don’t relish the idea of having so much hustle and bustle in their homes.

With a portable heater, there’s no installation necessary. You can plug it in and immediately reap the benefits.

Affordable Price

Portable heaters are very affordable, especially when compared to the price of purchasing a furnace or installing an HVAC system. You can get a device for as low as $30, though some models cost as much as $200.

What Are the Cons?

As with all things, portable heaters also have their downsides. The good news is that they’re not as numerous as the benefits; the bad news is that they can be quite serious in certain circumstances.

When deciding whether to buy a portable heater, it’s up to you whether the pros are worth the cons. For many, the cons are negligible compared to staying comfy during the Gilbert, AZ, winters.

Research

There are dozens of portable heaters to choose from and more popping up all the time. With so many options, you’ll have to do a little search to find the right one. This means reading reviews and learning how the different types work. Fortunately, this portable heater guide can give you a head start.

Fire Hazard

If the device is hot to the touch or contains flammable fuel, it can be a fire hazard. This is especially dangerous if you have small children or pets, as they may knock over these devices or come into contact with the hot surface. The good news is that not all portable heaters present this type of danger, so it’s possible to find a compatible model with your household.

What Are the Different Types of Portable Heaters?

As we mentioned, there are several types of portable heaters. Each functions differently and is, therefore, more effective in certain situations. You must figure out your needs before deciding on a model, as the wrong choice can lead to inconvenience and a chilly experience.

Fan-Forced Heaters

Fan-forced heaters are one of the most common types of portable heaters, as they’re quite efficient. Rather than relying on physics, these devices use a fan to pull air over the heating element, then blow the hot air into the room. This means they’re a great option if you want to warm a targeted area, and they work very quickly compared to radiant heaters. However, the fan does generate noise, although how much depends on the model.

Radiant Heaters

Radiant heaters are popular for their efficiency and ability to function in a variety of environments. This type of heater doesn’t have a fan because it heats objects and people directly rather than heating the air. As a result, radiant heaters make hardly any noise.

Micathermic Heaters

Micathermic heaters are unique in that they can generate both radiant and convection heat. However, they don’t have a fan, which means they’re as quiet as radiant heaters. They’re also built tall and thin, which can be a boon for individuals who don’t have much space.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Your Heater?

Quality varies not just by heater type, but by model and brand. Certain models may offer additional features that increase their value to some buyers, while others couldn’t care less. That’s why it’s essential to get your own priorities in order before looking at the various factors that impact portable heater quality.

Safety

For most people, safety is understandably their number one priority. Due to their lightweight, many portable heaters are at risk of being knocked over by accident, which can put them in contact with upholstery, carpet, and other flammable materials.

Fortunately, many models have safety features that eliminate this issue. For example, some heaters shut off automatically if they’re knocked over. Others are cool to the touch, which means they don’t present a hazard even if they come into contact with skin or carpet.

Energy Efficiency

For most people, the purpose of getting a portable heater is to avoid running their HVAC systems. For this reason, it’s essential to look at a device’s energy efficiency. “Energy efficiency” describes how much electricity a device must consume to perform its function. The less electricity it needs, the more efficient it is.

Additionally, you should also consider if the heater type is right for the job, as some heaters are more effective in certain spaces. For example, if you want to heat a large outdoor space, you should opt for a radiant heater, which doesn’t require an enclosed space, rather than a fan-forced heater, which does.

If you need assistance with your HVAC system and are located in San Tan Valley, AZ, or another part of the East Valley, Superstition Cooling is the place to call. Our technicians are trained to address a number of issues, including duct repair, thermostat installation, air conditioning replacement, and heat pump maintenance.

To get an estimate or learn more about our company, give us a call at 480-983-7407 or contact us online.

 

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Replacing Air Filters on Single Room Units

How AC Maintenance Affects AC Performance

Your air conditioner has a demanding job, especially when you live in Arizona. Making your home dozens of degrees cooler than the air outside isn’t easy, but efficient air conditioners can do it with a lot less energy. It will be easier to make your home comfortable, and you’ll save a lot of money on utility bills. There are five easy ways to lower energy bills by reducing the burden on your A/C.

1. Keep Your Compressor Unit Clear From Debris

When most people think about landscaping projects that reduce the temperature of a home, they’re picturing big trees that can provide a lot of shade. While that’s certainly one way to do it, there’s a much easier way to maximize A/C unit efficiency just by spending a few minutes in the yard. The following steps will improve airflow to help your air conditioning system complete heat transfers more efficiently:

    • Start by turning your air conditioner off. 
    • Clear leaves, weeds, and any other kind of debris that’s inside or touching your outdoor unit.
    • If the fans inside of your unit are dirty or caked in dust, wash them off. Gently spray them with a garden hose so you don’t bend the fins.

2. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

A lot of people forget to keep up with their A/C filter changes, but it’s one of the easiest and most important things you can do to make your equipment run more efficiently and last longer. If you always seem to wait too long before replacing the filter, we recommend setting calendar reminders at regular intervals. People who live alone without pets may only have to do this every couple of months, while larger households may need a filter change monthly or more.

If you have a permanent filter, you can simply clean it off instead of replacing it completely. We recommend doing that at least once a month because it’s easy to wash the filter and there’s no waste. Give it time to dry before putting it back because excess moisture isn’t good for your air conditioner.

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat

Set your thermostat to match your schedule, and you won’t have to worry about wasting energy while you’re away. Best of all, your home will already be comfortable again by the time you’re back.

4. Keep Vents and Ducts Clean

Dusty ducts and dirty A/C vents can block air from flowing, which makes it harder for the treated air to get where it needs to go. Make things easier for your air conditioner by allowing treated air to flow more freely throughout the home.

5. Get Regular HVAC Tune-Ups

When you take care of your air conditioner, it will work better and last longer. An experienced technician will run through a thorough checklist to ensure that every component of your A/C unit is in good shape. You might be amazed by how much your utility bills will drop after routine maintenance.

Need Air Conditioner Maintenance in East Valley Phoenix, AZ? Superstition Cooling is here to help. 

At Superstition Cooling, our NATE-certified technicians know what it takes to keep an air conditioner prepared for the dog days of summer. Residents of the East Valley count on us to keep their homes comfortable from Scottsdale to San Tan Valley and everywhere in between. In nearly two decades of service, we’ve seen just about everything. Contact us now to get started, and we’ll respond as quickly as possible to restore your A/C unit’s efficiency to peak levels.

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How Much Does a New HVAC Unit Cost? | Superstition Cooling

How Much Does A New AC Unit Cost?

How Much Does a New HVAC Unit Cost? | Superstition Cooling

Updated: March 22, 2024

Most homeowners don’t look forward to the realization that the time has come for a new A/C unit. The cost of a new A/C unit depends on a number of different factors, but people can normally count on paying roughly $5,000 on average. The cost may be slightly lower if you only need to cool a small home and don’t care very much about efficiency. If you need to cool a large home and want to save money on utility bills, the upfront cost of a new air conditioner can be much higher.

The cost of installing a new air conditioner in your home will depend on the size of your home. Larger homes need larger equipment. If your unit is especially hard to get to, that can also make the installation more difficult and therefore more expensive. Finally, the cost will depend on which equipment you choose, what kind of SEER rating you want, and the level of performance you expect. A good HVAC contractor should always walk you through all of your options, but this guide can help give you an idea of what to expect in the meantime.

Itemized Cost for New Air Conditioner

To get a more complete understanding of what you’re getting with a new air conditioner, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the different parts. Even though you’re buying a completely new unit, that unit contains multiple different parts that contribute to the total cost. Almost every time you buy a new air conditioning unit, you can expect the price to break down as follows:

    • The outdoor condensing unit alone is normally worth somewhere between $1,000 and $4,000.
    • The indoor coil is less expensive but is still likely to cost over $200 at a minimum, often over $1,000.
    • New refrigerant lines can cost up to $500 even for fairly basic jobs.
    • The labor costs for installation are normally between $1,000 and $2,500 on average.

There may be additional costs if you’re installing central air in a home that hasn’t had it before, or if the system you’re replacing is especially damaged or outdated. In those cases, you may need a new condensing unit pad, new wiring, or even a new permit. Each of those additional components of the installation can carry hundreds of dollars of additional charges. If you need new ductwork or serious ductwork repairs, that can easily add $3,000 to $5,000 of additional charges.

Finally, most homeowners also choose to upgrade the thermostat or thermostat when they’re paying for a new air conditioner installation. Newer thermostats are great because they offer smart home performance in addition to other features. Depending on which kind of thermostat you have currently, you may even need a new one to work with your new air conditioner. Most new thermostats fall between $100 and $300 in cost.

New A/C Unit Cost Factors

As you can see from the section above, even a single component of your air conditioning system can come at a wide range of different prices. To further understand why two versions of the same kind of equipment can have such wildly different price tags, it’s critical to understand why some air conditioners are more valuable than others. Some air conditioners cost much more than the national average, while others cost less. The difference can normally be boiled down to five factors.

1. Air Conditioner Efficiency Rating

An air conditioner’s efficiency is measured and referred to as a SEER rating. The higher the number, the more efficient an air conditioner is, and the less energy it will use to do the job. At a minimum, you should expect a new air conditioner to have a SEER rating of at least 14. Most brands make new air conditioners that could have SEER ratings as high as 20. 

Choosing the right SEER rating level is especially important here in Arizona. The bad news is that an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 14 will consume a lot of energy during our hot summers. We normally don’t recommend choosing a new air conditioner with a low SEER rating unless you’re only going to be cooling a very small space. The good news is that a new air conditioner with a high SEER rating will pay for itself by reducing your energy bills for many years to come. 

People in the Phoenix area can see their utility bills decrease right away after upgrading to a more efficient air conditioner. When temperatures rise above 100°F in Mesa, Tempe, and Scottsdale, you’ll be happy you paid more for an efficient unit that doesn’t waste so much energy. The other nice thing about more efficient units is that they’re better for the environment.

2. Air Conditioner Size

The capacity of your air conditioning unit will be measured in BTUs or tons. One ton equals 12,000 BTUs, so these measurements are interchangeable. You’ll need a larger condensing unit to cool a larger home.

When you choose a larger condensing unit, you’ll also need a larger evaporator coil. For the air conditioning system to function properly, these two components have to match. The distance from the condensing unit to the evaporator coil will also affect the refrigerant line set length. Longer line sets require extra material and additional refrigerant, so the cost will be greater.

3. Air Conditioner Performance

Air conditioning performance can be either single-stage, two-stage, multi-stage, or variable-capacity (which is also called modulating). To get a more efficient type of performance, you can also count on paying more. A two-stage air conditioner normally costs about 15-20% more than a single-stage model, and upgrading even further may drive the price up an additional 20-30%. The cost of installing a more efficient unit may also be slightly higher. Like upgrading to a unit with a better SEER rating, a more efficient type of performance can pay for itself by reducing energy bills.

4. Air Conditioner Installation Labor Costs

The cost of labor will depend on a variety of factors. Installing a unit in a walkout basement or utility closet is easier than installing it in an attic or crawlspace. You may be able to find a sale when the HVAC companies in Arizona aren’t as busy. Finally, a skilled A/C installer is likely to charge more, but the expertise is usually worth it.

5. Air Conditioner Brand

Like with anything else, the brand will affect cost. Similar units from different brands can come with price differences as large as 20%. An HVAC professional will be able to walk you through the strengths and weaknesses of different brands to help you determine if the additional cost is worth it.

Get Expert A/C Installation In East Valley Phoenix, AZ at Superstition Cooling Today!

Here at Superstition Cooling, our experts will help you determine when it’s worth getting a new A/C unit. That means giving you an honest opinion about whether you should repair or replace your existing unit. When it’s time to install a new A/C system, contact us to discuss how we can meet your needs for less.

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When Should You Consider Furnace Replacement?

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One of the difficult things about owning a home is that you’re responsible for replacing things when they need them. That cost can be especially intimidating when it comes to large items like your heater or heat pump.

Some of our customers have said they have a hard time knowing when it’s time to replace their heater, which makes this difficult. If you’ve started thinking about replacing your heater, here’s everything you need to know to make the decision easier.

Heater Not Working At All

The most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your heater is that it isn’t working to keep your home comfortable anymore. If your heater doesn’t heat, it may be time to get a new one.

That said, there may be times when you can make a simple repair to your heater and then get it running efficiently again for years to come. It largely depends on what kind of problem you’re having with your heater and how expensive it would be to resolve your issue.

Heater Blowing Cold Air

One of the most common heater problems people report is that it’s blowing out cold air. This is certainly a sign that something is wrong, but the problem could still be traced to multiple root causes. Some of these are easy (or even free) to fix, while others are more severe:

    • Your thermostat is set incorrectly. In this case, just correct it and you should start getting warm air again.
    • Your flame sensor is malfunctioning. It needs to be cleaned or replaced.
    • Your furnace filter needs a replacement. This is an easy fix.
    • Your burner isn’t igniting. An HVAC professional will be able to tell you how severe the problem is.

How Long Do Heaters Last?

One of the most important things to consider when you’re deciding whether or not you should replace your heater is how long you expect your current heater to last. If you’ve been sinking a lot of money into your furnace or heat pump on a regular basis, you may be able to save by replacing it instead of paying for constant repairs. If you’ve been getting regular HVAC maintenance, your heater is likely to run well for 15 to 20 years. After that, it’s probably worth it to upgrade to a more efficient furnace.

High-efficiency heaters can help you save up to 20% on energy costs. This alone will often make it worth it to replace an old heater instead of trying to repair it every time something goes wrong.

You may even be able to get tax credits or other incentives depending on the type of heater you install. To make sure you save as much money as possible on the entire process, consult your heating experts in East Phoenix.

How Do You Know If You Should Repair or Replace Heater?

Here at Superstition Cooling in Apache Junction, our experienced HVAC technicians will always give you their honest professional opinion about whether you should repair or replace your heater. We’ll help you weigh all your options and consider long-term spending. Whatever you decide, we’ll make the process as easy as possible.

Heater Installation in East Valley Phoenix, AZ by Superstition Cooling

Our team at Superstition Cooling has been helping people in the East Valley keep their homes comfortable for more than 15 years. We have experience with all the major brands of heaters.

We treat our customers like they’re our neighbors because they are, and offer extended warranties to give them peace of mind. Contact us today, and we’ll respond quickly to help you get your home comfortable.

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