Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair 770-444-9142 Perfection Air Atlanta GA

Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair Atlanta air conditioning repair is not as common you might think. Although most systems have a life expectancy of 15-20 years, many units don't need repairs until it's time for replacement. That said, some homeowners rush to replace units that still have several years left in them. In any case, when problems do arise, big or small, you're smart to address them immediately. In a climate that's as hot and humid as Atlanta's, homeowners ask a lot of their air conditioners. And when you're running you're A/C around the clock on a regular basis, even the smallest of problems can add up to less cooling power, reduced efficiency, and higher utility bills. Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair: Prevention Obviously, the easiest repair in the books is one that's avoided altogether by keeping up on regular maintenance chores. Make sure that you keep the condenser coils clean, the condenser drain hose free and clear, and ensure proper airflow by replacing the filter on a regular basis. In fact, if you have been neglecting your A/C in the maintenance department and have noticed it is starting to slack a little when it comes to performance, taking evasive action concerning the tasks mentioned above may be enough to solve your problem without the expensive services of an Atlanta air conditioning repairman. On the other hand, one alternative solution may be to employ an Atlanta air conditioning repairman early. Spring air conditioning inspections can identify problems before your system is needed. Some companies even offer free inspections in the hope of drumming up business before the summer chaos hits. Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair Costs Even the best maintained air conditioners run into trouble now and again, and when they do, the first thing they want to know is how much it's going to cost. To be fair, air conditioning repair in Atlanta is not a one-size-fits-all proposition, and depending on the nature of the repair, final costs can vary widely. That said, ServiceMagic.com collects data on the thousands of contractor referrals we provide to Atlanta area homeowners every year, and based on that information, we can tell you that the average cost of service calls and repairs in the A-T-L runs a pretty reasonable $320, though they can range anywhere from $100 to $900 depending on your particular air conditioning repair needs. Atlanta Air Conditioner Repairs While air conditioning repair in Atlanta isn't common, there are a number of things that can go wrong. Here's a quick list of the most common failures associated with air conditioning in Atlanta, and what to do about them. Don't get left in the heat! Use this link to Install Central Air Refrigerant Leaks—Leaking refrigerant is never a good thing. Low refrigerant levels can reduce energy efficiency and cooling power, and refrigerants can be harmful to the environment as well. Since the use and disposal of refrigerants is subject to federal regulation and guidelines, and since each air conditioner has specific requirements when it comes to topping off the fluid in your system, this is one job better left to the pros. Electronic Controls and Sensors—The electronic controls and sensors that cause your air conditioner, fan, and condenser to kick off and on properly are often the first components to go. Fortunately, problems of this nature are easy to address compared to larger mechanical failures, and won't cost you nearly as much. Fan and Condenser Failure—Fan and condenser failure, on the other hand, can add up to some pretty pricey repairs. Replacing burnt-out fan motors is usually worth the expense in order to get your A/C up and running again, though a failed condenser can be a different story. A new condenser is the most expensive repair in the books, and depending on the age and efficiency of your current air conditioner, it might be a smarter investment to just upgrade to a newer unit. Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair: Finding a Contractor There are a lot of nuts-and-bolts that go along with Atlanta air conditioning repair, but like so many home improvements, your greatest asset is finding a quality, reputable contractor. Finding a reputable contractor is very important when it comes to getting a fair shake on an air conditioning repair in the ATL, especially since contractors of any sort aren't required to obtain licensing to go into business in the state of Georgia. Getting at least three bids on any repair job and checking references are the best ways to protect yourself from unscrupulous contractors, and to make sure you get the best deal possible when it comes to getting your A/C in Atlanta operational again. And ServiceMagic can help. Each and every contractor in our system is put through a rigorous ten-step screening process. We also provide quality-controlled customer ratings and reviews so you can see what other homeowners thought about individual contractors. These reviews also create a powerful incentive for contractors to meet and exceed your expectations. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Hydronic Heating: The Premier Home Heating System, HVAC | Heating, Air Conditioning Marietta GA | 770-444-9142

Hydronic Heating: The Premier Home Heating System Have you ever rushed in from the winter cold and felt that first blast of warm air as you open your door, only to find yourself tired and losing focus an hour later? You sit down on your couch or recliner and reach for a blanket because your feet are cold. You lean back and your sweater shifts between the back of the chair and your shoulder. Your dried skin starts to itch and you start counting the days until spring will let you turn your heat off. You're not alone. You're part of the 70 percent of Americans who are dissatisfied with their heating system, and you're almost certainly part of the 90 percent of Americans who have forced air heating installed in their home. How Hydronic Heating Works Hydronic heating works by using the efficient transfer of heat through water. Since water conducts heat more easily than air, less energy is used to spread heat throughout the house. A heat source must be present. (Frequently, a boiler is used for hydronic heating but, for smaller homes, alternative, cheaper sources may be sufficient.) The heat is carried through the house by pipes that are installed in the ceiling, walls, baseboards or, ideally, underneath your floor. These pipes transfer heat to the walls of a room, which then radiant heat waves throughout the house, creating a subtle, uniform warmth that provides superior comfort. How Your Thermostat Lies Your thermostat can be misleading in two ways. First, a thermostat can only measure temperatures at specific points in your house. In a forced air heating system, the temperature variance in the distance just from your feet to your eye level can be as much as 15 degrees. If you have a two-story home or, worse, vaulted ceilings this difference may be accentuated. Second, a thermostat can only measure air temperature and not resultant temperature. Resultant temperature is the result of a combination of the air temperature, humidity, and the mean radiant temperature of the surrounding space. Resultant temperature is the best indicator for indicating the actual comfort level inside a home. You may go to a neighbor's home and feel warmer and more comfortable, only to discover the thermostat is set to the same temperature (or even lower) than your thermostat. Your neighbor's home has a better resultant temperature. Be sure to stay warm! Use this link to install a Radiant Heat System Hydronic Cooling Most hydronic systems provide both heating and cooling options. Hydronic cooling works in essentially the same way as the heating system. Cold water is used in the pipes to cool the walls of your home. This cooling process is still more efficient than traditional air conditioning systems. Hydronic heating tends to get the focus only because the quality difference is most evident in the winter, and the heat quality is why most homeowners decided to install the system. The Cost of Installation The most common reason homeowners haven't installed hydronic heating and cooling in their homes is the installation costs. Installation costs can vary significantly depending on whether your home needs a boiler to create a sufficient heat source and how accommodating the structure of your home is for installing the necessary pipes. Unfortunately, too many homeowners hear that hydronic heating is too expensive to install and don't bother to get a free estimate or to learn just how much a hydronic system can reduce their monthly utility bills. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Hey, Furnace Repairman! HVAC Repairs Atlanta GA 770-444-9142 Perfection Air Marietta GA

When it comes to your HVAC system, there are some simple tune-ups that you can take care of yourself. You can change those disposable filters frequently. You can wash your electrostatic filters occasionally. You can make sure your pilot light is lit. However, these heating and cooling systems are also very complex, so when the furnace is on the fritz, it's always best to call a professional for help. In fact, even when things are running smoothly, it's never a bad idea to get an expert out to your house for inspections, cleanings, and overall maintenance. Keeping Up to Date In any part of the home, your equipment is only as reliable as its maintenance. Therefore, heating and cooling systems need a lot of attention to keep them performing at their finest. It's important to hire furnace repairmen to inspect your system occasionally in order to ensure against future problems or damage. They can see if you're up to code. If something needs to be replaced or repaired. They can replace old corroded parts and valves with newer, safer models. This is especially important if you have an older system that may be out of date with the current technology. Can't Do It Enough If you have your systems inspected and cleaned often, you'll actually be saving on your budget, your schedule, and your safety. Save Money: Replacing an entire furnace can be very costly, and most units break down over time due to deterioration or neglect. So to avoid the expense of buying new, it's much more cost effective to invest in a furnace repairman. Even if you have a professional come out to inspect and clean again and again and again, you'll still be saving money in the long run. Save Time: None of us have time to learn everything about HVAC maintenance, so a qualified professional saves us time in our lives. This is especially true during emergencies: having a dependable furnace repairman on hand is vital when your system breaks down or your pilot light goes out on a cold winter night. Tip: It's a good idea to give your system a test run before winter hits to make sure it's working properly. The first cold snap is usually the busiest time for a furnace repairman, so avoid the hassle by preparing beforehand. Don't let your furnace leave you in the cold! Use this link to hire an HVAC Repairman Save Your Health: By having a professional inspect your property often, you're guarding against potential safety hazards, such as leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, allergens, or even worse problems such as fires and explosions. Where Are They? Finding a qualified, licensed, and experienced HVAC contractor isn't something to rush into. Simply calling the first listing in the phone book won't ensure you quality performance. Therefore, it's a good idea to do a little research beforehand so that in an emergency you'll already have the resources you need. Get recommendations from friends, family, local business owners, the company that installed it, or any other credible screening source to help locate the best contractor for your particular HVAC system. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Filters: The First Line of Defense for Your AC, HVAC | Heating, Air Conditioning Marietta GA | 770-444-9142

It's almost a mantra in the HVAC industry: replace your air conditioner filters and furnace filters regularly. And for good reason. Air conditioner filters are one of the most important protective measures built into your unit. They increase the life of your AC by keeping it cleaner and in better operating condition, and they also work wonders when it comes to improving the air quality in your home. Regular Maintenance Is Key The industry suggests you change out your air conditioner filter every thirty days, though advances in technology claim that you can let some filters sit for 90 days before they need to be replaced. As a general rule, the only sure way to know when your filter needs attention is to inspect it regularly. If the filter is covered in a thick dust, it's time to either clean or change out your filter. A clogged filter does neither you nor your AC unit any good, and can actually increase your utility bills over time, since your unit has to work overtime to get the air it needs to cool your home. Purchase the Best Filter for You When purchasing an air conditioning filter it's important to know what your options are so you best meet your filtering needs. Fiberglass Filters. If you're on a budget, your standard, thirty day fiberglass filter is better than nothing. But don't let this one sit. It will clog quickly, and after a month's use it will be doing you and your system more harm than good. Electrostatic Filters. These are also disposable filters that should be changed monthly, though manufacturers claim that air flow through them creates an electrostatic charge that does a better job of trapping dust and other airborne contaminants. These are generally better choices if you or someone in your family suffers from any breathing problems such as asthma or allergies. Is your AC running right? Use this link to contact a local pro for AC Repair Electronic Filters. Electronic filters are the top-dog as far as air conditioner filters go. They are hooked up to an electrical power source and do the best job of filtering contaminants from the air. They are also the most maintenance free filters, and can be cleaned for re-use, saving you the trouble of purchasing a new filter for every change. Other Options. Of course, this is just a small sampling of the most popular air conditioner filters on the market. There are a number of other filters out there, all offering their own special benefits. Lysol treated filters claim to work wonders when it comes to reducing airborne bacteria, and microparticle and HEPA filters are supposed to be optimal as far as cleaning and purifying the air you breathe. There are even activated carbon filters to promote odor control in your home if that's a problem. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Heating & Cooling, Atlanta Heating Systems 101, Energy Savings and Your Atlanta Heating Services

Heating & Cooling While winter in Atlanta isn't anything like those experienced in northern cities like Boston or Minneapolis, residents of the ATL don't have to be reminded that an efficient and effective heating system comes in handy during the winter months. In fact, record lows in Atlanta are proof that temperatures can fall as low as 10 degrees below zero, and average lows for December through February hover just above freezing. That being said, what is the best heating system for an Atlanta home? Read on to discover your options. Atlanta Heating Systems 101 Atlantans actually have more choices when it comes to home heating than most residents realize. Obviously, natural gas powered furnaces are the most popular choice, thanks to a winning combination of cost, availability, and a readily available fuel source. But it's not the only heating system that will work for Atlanta homeowners. Boiler systems, active solar heating, radiant floor heating, and high-efficiency wood and pellet burning stoves are all suitable alternatives. Here's the breakdown of what you have to choose from, along with any glaring benefits or drawbacks. Furnaces--If your home already has a forced air furnace, replacing your old model with a newer, energy-efficient one is probably going to be your most cost-friendly option. And if you're building a new home, forced air is also going to be your heating system of choice. Boilers--Boilers heat homes by circulating heated water or steam throughout the home, distributing the heat through individual radiators or baseboard heaters. Similar to furnaces, replacing an older boiler with a more energy-efficient model is your best option if you already have a boiler system in place. Active Solar Heating--Active solar heating is a newer, greener alternative. While there are many types available, the most common type captures heat from the sun in a liquid reservoir, then circulates that liquid to a heat exchanger and blower system that distributes the heat through your house. These systems do require a higher initial investment to install, as well as a backup traditional heating such as a forced air furnace, since they typically provide only 40 to 60 percent of the heat needed to warm a home comfortably. Once the system is installed however, that 40 to 60 percent is free of charge. Radiant Floor Heating--Radiant floor heating pumps liquid heated by a boiler or water heater through a series of pipes installed within a solid floor (concrete slabs are most common). The heat transfers into the flooring material, then radiates up into the room. Radiant floor heating is more efficient, healthier, and provides a more consistent heat than other options. It's best suited for new builds, however, since the heating system and pipes must be installed when the slab is poured. Wood and Pellet Burning Stoves--Believe it or not, many homeowners are still using wood, pellets, or other bio-mass alternatives, to heat their home. If you do go this route, choose energy-efficient models that maximize the fuel that is burnt. You'll save money on fuel costs, and reduce the level of unused fuel that is exhausted out of the chimney in the form of polluting smoke. Energy Savings and Your Atlanta Heating Services The fact of the matter is that energy saving benefits of high-efficiency heating services aren't as pronounced in warmer climes as they are in colder ones, but that doesn't mean that purchasing your new heating system in Atlanta with energy efficiency in mind is a bad idea. Higher energy efficiency will still help save you money on your monthly utility bills, though homeowners in the ATL should keep in mind that top-of-the-line energy efficient systems probably aren't justified when you look at things from an investment/return standpoint. In that regard, Atlanta homeowners are better off choosing an energy-efficient model that is a little more middle of the road. These models don't cost quite as much as premium heating systems in Atlanta, but they are still a huge improvement over older models when it comes to energy efficiency, and have a greater chance of paying for themselves over time. Finally, proper installation, sizing, and fine-tuning are just as important when it comes to an efficient, operating heating system as the heating unit itself. Talk to a contractor who specializes in installing the heating system of your choice to ensure that your heating system in Atlanta will operate as smoothly as possible heating your Atlanta area home. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Heating & Cooling, Atlanta Air Conditioning Costs, Efficient Atlanta Air Conditioning: SEER Ratings

Heating & Cooling Just exactly how the city of Atlanta earned the nickname "Hotlanta" is up for debate. Some claim it's because of a thriving music scene that has become a breeding ground for hip-hop artists, as well as rock, pop, and folk music stars. Others claim it's because Atlanta has been one of fastest growing cities in the U.S. since the turn of the millennium. Then again, sometimes the simplest explanations are best. It might not get as much press as other hot spots like New Orleans and Miami, but Atlanta is no slouch when it comes to hot, humid summers. Record highs in Atlanta have topped 100 degrees every month June through September, and temperatures of 90 degrees or more have been recorded in April, May, and October. All that adds up to one thing: Atlanta air conditioning is a top priority for A-T-L homeowners and needs to be kept in tip-top condition. Atlanta Air Conditioning Costs We'll get to suggestions for purchasing the right air conditioner in a moment, but first, let's take the opportunity to discuss what's at the top of every Atlanta homeowner's need-to-know list: cost. ServiceMagic.com has provided thousands of contractor referrals for homeowners across metropolitan Atlanta, and we follow up on each and every one to ensure our customers are getting the best quality service from our contractors. From the information we gather from those surveys, we're happy to provide you with a reliable estimate of what an average air conditioning installation in Atlanta is going to run. Based on our data, an average A/C installation in Atlanta runs about $4,100, with high and low numbers coming in at $9,000 and $1,100, respectively. Why the huge gap between the extremes? There are a number of factors that influence how much air conditioning in Atlanta costs to install, including the price of the unit, the size of the home, and whether the home is "A/C ready" or needs appropriate ductwork installed, as well. Efficient Atlanta Air Conditioning: SEER Ratings The place to start when it comes to finding an air conditioner is to pay attention to SEER ratings. All air conditioners manufactured today have SEER ratings of 13 or better, though units with ratings as high as 20 are available for purchase (the higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the A/C). In a climate like Atlanta's, where homeowners can run air conditioners for six months out of the year or more, you're wise to go with the highest SEER rating you can afford. Why? An A/C with a SEER Rating of 13 is 30 percent more efficient than one with a SEER rating of 10, and up to 50 percent more efficient than units with SEER ratings of 6 or less (not uncommon in air conditioners that are more than 15 years old). Translate that into dollars and cents, and you'll find that you can save hundreds of dollars a year on your electricity bill with a high-efficiency unit. And if you'll get those kinds of savings by upgrading to a 13 SEER unit, think about what an A/C with a SEER rating of 20 or more will do for your wallet. Don't get left in the heat! Use this link to Install Central Air Atlanta Air Conditioning and Energy Costs Just as it's no secret that venturing outside on an August day in Atlanta is a little like being thrown into a pressure cooker, it's also no secret that air conditioners aren't inexpensive to run. In fact, it has been reported that 5 percent of the energy use in the U.S. each year can be attributed to residential air conditioners alone. Of course, for Atlanta homeowners, your air conditioning is going to account for a lot more than 5 percent of your annual energy bills from your utility company. Itýs important to talk to contractors in-depth about how much energy your air conditioner will use. You may experience some sticker shock when you see the difference in installation cost between basic units and highly-rated energy-efficient units. Yet, the monthly and annual savings from these highly-rated units are just as likely to catch your eye. Atlanta Air Conditioning and Proper Installation Installing air conditioning in Atlanta with a high SEER rating is a waste of time if it isn't done correctly. Improperly sized units, poor installation, and overlooked leaks in your home's ductwork, can easily negate any energy savings you were hoping to enjoy. Most homeowners donýt realize it, but you should install the smallest possible A/C system. Ideally, your air conditioner would run continuously, sapping moisture from the air and allowing warmer ýabsoluteý temperature to feel more comfortable through low-moisture ýambientý temperatures. Thus, hiring an experienced contractor is a vital step in ensuring your new A/C cools your home properly and as efficiently as possible. If you're ready to install air conditioning in Atlanta, or need to replace an older unit that's seen better days, contact at least three contractors who specialize in air conditioning installations to get bids on the job. That's a good rule of thumb wherever you live in the U.S., but it's even more important in Georgia, where contractors aren't required to obtain licensing to operate. Comparing multiple bids, and checking up on references, is the only way to ensure you get the best deal, and the best contractor, for your Atlanta air conditioning installation. Heating and Air Marietta GA

Changing Air Systems

Changing Air Systems Air conditioner life expectancies average about 15 years, there's a good chance you'll be faced, at one time or another, with the prospect of changing air systems in your residence. When it comes to an air system install, there are several factors you'll want to take into account to ensure you get optimal performance and the most energy efficient production from your new air conditioning unit. Shop for Energy Star Appliances In this day and age of environmental responsibility, it's a good call to go with an energy star approved unit when changing air systems. Not only will your energy efficient unit be better for the environment, but it's going to save you money in long run as well. Air conditioners are a major source of high energy costs during the summer months, and the more efficient unit you can install, the more savings you'll see on your monthly electricity bill. Currently air conditioners must operate with a SEER rating of 10 to 17. The higher better, so talk to your HVAC contractor about purchasing an air conditioner with the highest SEER rating possible. The environment and your bank account will thank you in the end. Changing Air Systems and Noise Besides energy efficiency, talk to your air conditioning installer about installing the quietest unit possible. Cheap air conditioners can be a major source of noise pollution, especially when installed near bedroom windows, decks, and patios. Thinking ahead about placement when you decide on changing air systems can eliminate the noise factor altogether. Avoid areas close to windows, doors, patios, and decks. Also, avoid installing new air conditioning units between homes, to avoid noise complaints from the neighbors. Of course, if you choose to go with a higher-end appliance, the noise factor is reduced significantly. High end AC's are manufactured with quiet in mind, meaning they run just as efficiently as lower end models without waking up the neighborhood. Changing Air Systems and Shade The other major factor to take into account is sun exposure. Any air conditioner, no matter how energy efficient, is going to have to work harder when placed in area that gets full sun for most of the day. Look for areas shaded by shrubs or your home, when choosing a place for your new unit to be installed. Doing so will ensure that your new air conditioner won't have to work overtime to cool your home. Can't stand the heat? Use this link to Install Central Air Try Maintenance Before a Full Air Systems Install If your current air conditioner is failing, it's a good idea to schedule a maintenance checkup before you shell out big dollars for a new air system install. The life span of your average air conditioning unit is 15 years, but that can be extended with the performance of regular maintenance visits. Your HVAC contractor should check the unit's freon, its filter, and its general cleanliness, before recommending changing air systems altogether. Often your unit will just need a tune up, which is a whole lot cheaper than a new air system install. Talk to a Professional From deciding where to place your new air conditioner to choosing the properly sized unit for your home, talking to a licensed HVAC professional is the best way to ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck. An HVAC professional will do everything from advising you on whether your ductwork is sufficient to whether your current electrical setup can handle the load demanded by a new system. Air conditioning installation is no easy chore. Hiring a pro is the only way to make sure you'll get optimal performance from your new investment. HVAC Marietta GA