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What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need? Tucson Home Sizing Guide

Written by eazybreezy on . Posted in General.

Choosing the right air conditioner size for your Tucson home isn’t just about comfort—it’s about efficiency, longevity, and avoiding hundreds of dollars in wasted energy. With our desert summers regularly exceeding 100°F for months at a time, proper AC sizing becomes even more critical than in other parts of the country.

Many homeowners assume bigger is always better when it comes to cooling capacity. However, an oversized unit cycles on and off too frequently, never running long enough to properly dehumidify your home. An undersized system, on the other hand, runs constantly without ever reaching your desired temperature, driving up energy bills and prematurely wearing out components.

Understanding BTUs and Tonnage

Air conditioner capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour or in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTUs per hour. The general rule of thumb suggests 20 BTUs per square foot of living space, but Tucson’s extreme climate demands a more nuanced approach.

For example, a 1,500 square foot home would theoretically need a 30,000 BTU system (2.5 tons). However, this basic calculation doesn’t account for Tucson-specific factors that significantly impact your cooling needs.

Tucson-Specific Sizing Factors

Sun Exposure and Orientation: Homes facing west absorb significantly more heat during peak afternoon hours. If your living room has large west-facing windows, you’ll need more cooling capacity than a home of the same size with north-facing exposure.

Insulation Quality: Older Tucson homes built before modern energy codes often have minimal attic insulation. Poor insulation can increase your cooling requirements by 25-40%. Before investing in professional AC installation, consider whether upgrading insulation would allow you to install a smaller, more efficient system.

Ceiling Height: Many Tucson homes feature vaulted ceilings or open floor plans. These architectural features create larger air volumes that require more cooling capacity than standard 8-foot ceilings.

Number and Quality of Windows: Single-pane windows are common in older Tucson neighborhoods. These allow significant heat transfer compared to modern dual-pane, Low-E windows. If you have many windows or older glazing, factor in additional cooling capacity.

Shade and Landscaping: Mature trees providing afternoon shade can reduce your cooling load by 15-20%. Conversely, homes in newer subdivisions without established landscaping face maximum heat exposure.

Square Footage Guidelines for Tucson Homes

While professional load calculations are always recommended, here are general guidelines adjusted for Tucson’s climate:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 2.5-3 tons
  • 1,500 sq ft: 3-3.5 tons
  • 2,000 sq ft: 3.5-4 tons
  • 2,500 sq ft: 4-5 tons
  • 3,000 sq ft: 5-6 tons

These estimates assume average insulation, standard ceiling heights, and typical window coverage. Your actual needs may vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above.

Why Oversizing Costs You Money

The “bigger is better” mentality leads many homeowners to install oversized systems. An oversized AC reaches your thermostat’s set point quickly, then shuts off before completing a full cooling cycle. This short-cycling causes several problems:

Humidity Issues Tucson’s monsoon season brings unexpected humidity. An oversized unit doesn’t run long enough to remove moisture from the air, leaving your home feeling clammy despite cool temperatures.

Higher Energy Bills AC units consume the most energy during startup. An oversized system that cycles on and off frequently uses more electricity than a properly sized unit running longer cycles.

Premature Wear The compressor—your AC’s most expensive component—experiences the most stress during startup. Excessive cycling significantly shortens equipment lifespan, potentially requiring AC repair services sooner than expected.

Signs Your Current AC Is the Wrong Size

Too Small:

  • The system runs constantly, but never reaches the desired temperature
  • Significant temperature differences between rooms
  • Extremely high summer electric bills
  • Unit struggles during peak afternoon heat

Too Large:

  • Frequent on/off cycling (runs for less than 10 minutes)
  • Uneven temperatures throughout your home
  • High humidity during the monsoon season, despite cool air
  • Higher-than-expected energy costs

The Importance of Professional Load Calculations

When you’re ready for a new system, professional HVAC contractors use Manual J load calculations to account for all the variables affecting your cooling needs. This comprehensive assessment examines:

  • Exact square footage and ceiling heights
  • Window sizes, orientations, and glazing types
  • Insulation R-values in walls, attic, and floors
  • Air infiltration rates and ductwork condition
  • Internal heat sources (appliances, lighting, occupants)
  • Local climate data specific to Tucson

This detailed analysis ensures you get precisely the right size system—not too large, not too small.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Proper AC sizing is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your Tucson home. An accurately sized system will keep you comfortable during brutal summer months while minimizing energy costs and maximizing equipment lifespan.

Don’t rely on online calculators or rules of thumb alone. Every home is unique, and Tucson’s extreme climate demands professional expertise. At Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling, we perform thorough load calculations for every AC installation in Tucson to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency.

Whether you’re building a new home in Oro Valley, replacing an aging system in central Tucson, or upgrading from an undersized unit, we’ll help you select the perfect size system for your specific needs. Our Rheem Pro Partner status means we have access to a complete range of system sizes and efficiency levels to match any home.

Ready to find out exactly what size air conditioner your home needs? Contact Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling at (520) 207-0334 for a free, no-obligation assessment and estimate.

Heat Pump vs Furnace: The Best Heating Option for Tucson’s Mild Winters

Written by CS Design Studios on . Posted in General.

When winter temperatures in Tucson drop to 35°F at night but climb back to 65°F by afternoon, choosing the right heating system isn’t as straightforward as it is in other parts of the country. Most national HVAC advice focuses on harsh winters with months of freezing temperatures—but that’s not Tucson. Our desert climate demands a different approach to home heating. Understanding the difference between heat pumps and furnaces will help you make the right choice for comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings in your Arizona home.

Understanding Heat Pumps for Arizona

A heat pump works by moving heat rather than creating it, essentially operating like your air conditioner in reverse. Even when outdoor temperatures drop to 35°F, heat pumps can extract warmth from the outside air and transfer it into your home. This makes them efficient in climates where winter temperatures rarely fall below 25°F.

Key characteristics of heat pumps:

  • One system handles both heating in winter and cooling in summer
  • Most efficient in mild climates with temperatures above 25°F
  • Lower operating costs through heat transfer technology
  • Requires electric power for operation
  • Works well as a dual heating-cooling solution

While heat pumps offer year-round versatility, they may not be the right fit for every Tucson home, especially if you already have natural gas service or prefer the reliability of traditional heating methods.

Understanding Furnaces for Tucson

Gas furnaces generate heat by combustion, burning natural gas to warm air distributed throughout your home. They excel at quickly heating spaces on cold mornings when temperatures dip into the 30s, making them a proven choice for Tucson home heating. Modern furnaces boast AFUE ratings (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of 95% or higher, meaning they convert nearly all their fuel into usable heat.

Key benefits of furnaces for Tucson homes:

  • Rapid heat delivery on cold desert mornings
  • Reliable performance regardless of outdoor temperature
  • Work with existing natural gas infrastructure
  • Proven technology with decades of dependability
  • Pair perfectly with separate AC systems for year-round comfort
  • Consistent heating power even during extreme cold snaps

For Tucson homeowners with natural gas service, furnaces provide dependable heating that handles our winter temperature swings with ease. Many Arizona residents appreciate the immediate warmth and straightforward operation of a quality gas furnace.

Cost Comparison: Heat Pump vs Furnace in Tucson

Understanding the true cost of your heating system means looking beyond installation prices. In Tucson’s unique climate, both options have distinct advantages depending on your home’s existing setup and utility infrastructure.

Installation Costs:

  • Gas furnace: $3,500-$6,000 (heating system)
  • Separate AC unit: $3,500-$6,000 (if needed)
  • Heat pump system: $5,000-$8,000 (covers both heating and cooling)
  • Total furnace + AC: $7,000-$12,000 for complete climate control

Monthly Operating Costs in Tucson:

  • Gas furnace winter heating: $50-$100 per month (varies with gas prices)
  • Heat pump winter heating: $40-$80 per month
  • Furnace advantage: Consistent performance in all temperatures
  • Both systems last 15-20 years with proper maintenance

While heat pumps may have slightly lower operating costs, furnaces offer predictable performance and work seamlessly with Tucson’s existing natural gas infrastructure. If you’re only replacing your heating system and your AC is relatively new, a furnace installation is significantly more cost-effective.

Which Is Best for Your Tucson Home?

Choose a Furnace if you:

  • Already have natural gas service established
  • Only need to replace the heating (your AC is newer)
  • Want rapid heat delivery on cold mornings
  • Prefer proven, reliable heating technology
  • Need consistent heating regardless of outdoor temperature

Choose a Heat Pump if you:

  • Are replacing both heating and cooling systems simultaneously
  • Don’t have natural gas service
  • Want one system for all seasons
  • Prioritize slightly lower operating costs over upfront savings

The Bottom Line for Tucson Homeowners

For many Tucson homes with existing natural gas service, a high-efficiency furnace provides the best combination of reliability, performance, and value. Our relatively short heating season means you want a system that delivers immediate comfort on those cold desert mornings—and modern gas furnaces excel at precisely that. When paired with an efficient air conditioning system, you get year-round comfort with proven, dependable technology.

At Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling, we specialize in furnace installations tailored to Tucson’s climate. As Rheem Pro Partners, we install high-efficiency heating systems that deliver reliable warmth throughout Arizona’s mild winters. Whether you’re replacing an old furnace or upgrading your home’s heating capabilities, we’ll help you find the right solution.

Ready to upgrade your home’s heating system? Contact Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling today for a free consultation on furnace installation and learn how a new high-efficiency heating system can keep your Tucson home comfortable all winter long.

how to clean mold from ac unit​

How To Clean Mold From Your Air Conditioner Unit

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

If your indoor humidity levels are high and your AC unit has gone years without a thorough cleaning, there’s a good chance mold has grown on and inside the unit. Each time your AC kicks on, those mold spores spread throughout your home, causing respiratory issues and worsening allergies. You might see visible mold on your unit, smell musty odors, or experience the respiratory symptoms that often arise with indoor mold.

Knowing how to clean mold from your AC unit can help you resolve this problem. Some cleaning tasks are doable on your own, but for others, scheduling professional AC service in Tucson, AZ, may be wiser.

Turn Off the Unit

Start by shutting off power to the AC. For a window unit, this means turning off the power button and unplugging it. For a central AC system, you might turn off power using a switch near your HVAC system or by shutting off the corresponding breaker switch.

By turning off your AC, you reduce the risk of shock or electrocution while cleaning the AC unit and prevent injuries if the system were to turn on while you are cleaning the internal components.

Clean or Replace the Filter

One of the fastest ways to improve indoor air quality is to clean or replace the air filter. If your filter can be cleaned, vacuuming off the dust and washing it with warm water and a small amount of soap allows it to resume its job of catching airborne dust and mold spores. Replacing disposable filters once a month is also important for helping your unit run efficiently and reducing energy bills.

Use Water and Mild Soap To Clean Visible Mold Spots

If you see dark-colored mold spots on or around your AC unit, you can typically remove them with warm water and a mild detergent. It’s important to wear gloves and a mask when cleaning mold on an AC unit to avoid breathing in the spores. Scrub at the mold spots with a soapy cloth until they are gone.

If there is mold on your AC unit, there’s a good chance it is also inside the unit. Removing all mold might involve cleaning AC coils and other internal parts, along with thoroughly inspecting the system for lingering spores.

Contact Professionals for More Extensive Cleaning

There may be mold in more intricate parts of your HVAC system, like the blower fan, condensate drain line, and evaporator coils. Adequately removing mold requires you to disassemble components, clean them, and then reassemble the system, which leaves significant room for error.

Knowing how to clean mold from an AC unit isn’t the same as having the tools and skills to do so safely. While you can change air filters and complete other basic cleaning on your own, it’s best to enlist professional assistance for more intensive cleaning tasks. Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling provides comprehensive HVAC services in the greater Tucson area, including HVAC system cleaning and air conditioner mold removal.

Call us today at 520-207-0334 for a free quote.

how long do ac capacitors last

How Long Do AC Capacitors Last?

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

You book an urgent AC repair in Tucson, AZ, because your unit struggles to cool your house. After a thorough inspection, the technician tells you that a failing capacitor is to blame. How long do AC capacitors last, and is it worth replacing them when your cooling system’s performance suffers?

Discover the answer to these questions and more below. Our team at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling is here to break down what you need to know about the capacitor’s function and lifespan.

Factors That Influence an AC Capacitor’s Lifespan

If your air conditioning unit makes an unusual humming sound or fails to turn on, a faulty capacitor could be to blame. This key electrical component helps power your unit so you can beat the heat. Unfortunately, the part doesn’t last forever.

Some property owners can enjoy 15 to 20 years of air conditioning performance without any capacitor problems. Others may need to replace the part much sooner. Here’s what impacts your capacitor’s performance:

  • How often you run your air conditioner
  • The quality of your model
  • Rust and corrosion
  • The installation job

Constantly running your air conditioner may cause the part to deteriorate faster. If you opt for an amateur installer or a low-quality unit, the capacitor could also fail prematurely.

How Capacitor Replacement Costs Compare to Installing a New Unit

How long do AC capacitors last, and what is the usual replacement cost? Say you rarely turn your cooling system off. The constant use could cause the capacitor to fail in under 10 years.

Expect to pay a few hundred dollars to replace the part. If the air conditioner is relatively new, this is a worthwhile repair. On the other hand, if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s in your best interest to replace the entire unit, not just the capacitor.

Tips for Preserving Your Air Conditioner’s Capacitor

Air conditioning capacitors don’t last forever. However, there are ways to keep yours functional for longer. Experts recommend:

  • Giving the system periodic breaks: Turn your air conditioner off whenever possible to prevent overheating.
  • Scheduling annual HVAC maintenance: Regular tune-ups help rule out electrical issues and minimize wear and tear.
  • Choosing a high-quality model: Opt for a high-end air conditioner to ensure that all parts work properly and have an impressive lifespan.
  • Booking repairs early: If you notice something wrong with your cooling system’s performance, don’t wait to schedule repairs. Maintenance services could prevent the need for repairs entirely.

Book Top-Tier Air Conditioning Services in Tucson, Arizona

So, how long do AC capacitors last in Tucson? With the proper care, yours might not need to be replaced during your unit’s lifespan. However, it’s best to avoid some costly AC mistakes if you want to get the most out of your system.

Reach out to Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling for personalized solutions. We offer air conditioning installation, repairs, and maintenance services. Contact us today at (520) 207-0334 to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly specialists.

why is my ac unit fan not spinning

Why Is Your AC Unit Fan Not Spinning?

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

When you turn down your thermostat, you expect your air conditioner to kick on and immediately provide that cool relief you need during Tucson’s intense summer heat. When you hear it cycle on but the fan doesn’t spin, you’re left with a hot house and high energy bills. If you’re asking, “Why is my AC unit fan not spinning?” you’ve come to the right place.

At Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling, we offer expert AC repair services for every common unit malfunction in Tucson. Below, we explain the common reasons why your system’s fan won’t turn on and what you can do to troubleshoot this frustrating issue.

Common Reasons Why Your AC Fan Isn’t Spinning

Most standard central air conditioners have two fans: one that operates inside to blow cool air into your home and one in the outdoor unit that removes hot air from the system. If either fan malfunctions, the system will not be able to cool your home effectively.

Air conditioners contain a complex system of capacitors and motors that spin these fans. When a fan malfunctions, it’s likely due to an issue with one of these components or a power concern. Here are the most common culprits:

Power or Electrical Issues

Air conditioners often overheat during our intense, brutal summers. This can cause your circuit breaker to trip, shutting down power to the system’s motors and stopping the fans from spinning. We recommend resetting your breaker to see if that restores your cooling.

You may also need to check your thermostat settings. Occasionally, the fan may not spin if you’ve set your thermostat incorrectly. It should be set to “ON” or “AUTO” and below the current room temperature.

Capacitor Failure

If you’re still asking, “Why is my AC unit fan not spinning?” after trying the above troubleshooting steps, you’re likely dealing with a blown capacitor. The capacitor powers the fan’s motor and the entire air conditioner. It can fail over time, requiring a professional replacement from a licensed technician.

A Contactor Switch Malfunction

The contactor switch controls the flow of electricity to the air conditioner, directly sending voltage to the fan’s motor when the unit cycles on. If this switch breaks down, the fan will not receive power from the capacitor, and it will not spin. Contactor malfunctions require expert repairs or replacements.

Fan Motor Burnout

Fan motors themselves can occasionally burn out from excessive use, which is common here in Arizona. Routine maintenance prevents the motor’s bearings from breaking down. If the motor burns out, it must be replaced entirely.

Dirty Filters

Many air conditioner problems arise from clogged filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow to the unit, causing ice to build up on refrigerant lines. This strains the unit’s fans and motors, which may cause them to break down.

Restore Your Home’s Cool Airflow by Calling Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling Today!

Whether you’re wondering why your AC unit fan isn’t spinning or dealing with an unusually loud AC, we can help. Schedule expert air conditioner repairs today by calling Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling at (520) 207-0334.

why is my ac blowing warm air

5 Reasons Why Your AC Is Blowing Warm Air

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

If your AC struggles to keep your house cool, check the air blowing from the vents. A malfunction may have affected the unit’s cooling ability, causing it to blow warm air and preventing it from effectively cooling your space.

Your next question may be: “Why is my AC blowing warm air?” Several issues can lead to this effect. Explore a few potential reasons, then contact Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling for an inspection and AC repair.

1. Low Refrigerant in the Unit

Your HVAC system uses refrigerant to cool the air entering the system. When your system has low refrigerant, it may not be able to cool the air effectively, leading to warm air blowing from the vents. You might also notice other symptoms of low refrigerant:

  • Hissing or bubbling noises when the AC is running
  • Water pooling around the air handler
  • Ice building on the evaporator coil

The most common cause of low refrigerant is a leak. A professional will need to assess the problem and recharge the system.

2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

A dirty air filter can also impact your unit’s ability to disperse cool air throughout your home. Air must pass through the filter before it reaches the air ducts. When the filter is overly dirty or clogged, the system must work harder, impeding its cooling ability.

The fix for this issue is simple: replace the air filter. Then set a reminder to change the filters every one to three months, depending on usage.

3. Frozen Evaporator Coils

Low refrigerant and dirty air filters can both lead to another problem that causes your AC to blow warm air: frozen evaporator coils. These coils absorb heat from the air and use refrigerant to cool it before recirculating it throughout your home. They may freeze when they receive poor airflow or when the refrigerant pressure drops too low, such as what happens during a leak.

An HVAC professional will inspect your evaporator coils and the system as a whole, then mitigate the issue that caused them to freeze.

4. Incorrect Thermostat Setting

Sometimes, air conditioner problems arise due to incorrect thermostat settings. Check your thermostat to ensure that you have the “cool” setting on, rather than “warm” or “fan.” This prompts the AC to turn on rather than the HVAC system simply circulating room-temperature or warm air throughout your home.

Also, ensure that you have the temperature set to your preferences.

5. Tripped Breaker or Loss of Power

Another common cause of an AC blowing warm air is a loss of power to the unit. Check that any switches near the HVAC unit are on and that the breaker switch powering the outdoor unit has not tripped. These electrical issues could lead your HVAC system to circulate air without actually engaging the AC unit.

When in Doubt, Call Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling

If you’re asking, “Why is my AC blowing warm air?” our professionals can give you a specific answer. Call Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling at 520-207-0334 to request a repair or schedule summer HVAC maintenance to prevent future malfunctions.

why is my ac leaking water

Common Reasons Why Your AC Is Leaking Water

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

If you’re searching online for “Why is my AC leaking water?” it may be time to reach out to a professional HVAC technician to get some answers. AC units can leak for various reasons, and experts like Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling can help homeowners identify the root cause of the issue and find a solution quickly.

These leaks can cause serious damage if they continue for lengthy periods, so it is essential not to ignore them.

Homeowners should understand the common reasons why air conditioners may leak and act quickly when they notice these issues. Common causes of air conditioning leaks include the following:

Clogged Drain Lines

One of the most common reasons for an air conditioner leak is a clog in the drain line. This important component releases condensate, and when it fills with dirt, debris, or algae, it can cause the drain pan to overflow and lead to a leak. Professional technicians may use a specialized vacuum to suck out the clog and restore drainage.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Sometimes, condensate freezes on the evaporator coils and then melts quickly, leading to a leak. These freezing events occur with restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels, although dirty coils are also sometimes the culprit.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters can lead to AC leaks by reducing airflow to the unit and increasing condensation. Poor airflow also adds undue stress to the system and can cause damage to components more quickly than normal.

Low Refrigerant Levels

When refrigerant levels are low and the evaporator coil is colder than usual, it can increase condensation, potentially leading to the freeze-and-thaw cycle that contributes to leaks. Often, homeowners will hear a gurgling or hissing sound when this is the case.

Damaged Drain Pans

If the condensate drain pan is damaged or rusted, it may not hold water reliably and can cause a leak. Replacement is typically necessary after 10 to 12 years.

Improper Installation

If the leak occurs soon after a new unit’s installation or after turning the cooling on for the first time that year, it may be because of mistakes during installation. For example, a poorly configured drain line can cause condensate build-up and leaks.

Act Fast To Prevent Damage

An AC leak is an indication that something is working incorrectly, so it is essential to pursue professional maintenance to prevent further damage to the unit. These leaks can also cause serious water damage that is expensive to repair. A professional can quickly repair or replace components to stop the leak and restore optimal function to the unit.

Call Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling for Leak Assistance

Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling offers expert HVAC repair and replacement. Our experienced team can assist you with everything from basic HVAC tips to complex repairs and replacement processes if your unit suddenly stops working. If you notice a leak, let us take a look as soon as possible to avoid damaging your home or living without effective AC for longer than necessary.

To schedule a maintenance visit, call 520-207-0334.

how to tell if ac coils are frozen

How To Tell If Your AC’s Coils Are Frozen

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

If your air conditioner is malfunctioning, frozen AC coils may be to blame. The AC’s evaporator coils facilitate the heat exchange process, absorbing heat and moisture from the indoor air and moving it outside.

Frozen AC coils cause your system to struggle to cool your home. If your unit is experiencing this problem, you’ll need to enlist an AC service in Tucson, AZ, to thaw the ice and mitigate the issue.

Learn how to tell if AC coils are frozen.

You Can See Ice on the Outdoor Unit

One of the most obvious signs that your AC coils are frozen is visible ice on the outdoor unit. Head outside and take a close look at the AC unit. You might notice ice buildup on the actual system or the lines.

Just because you don’t see any ice does not necessarily mean the coils aren’t frozen. Ice can be challenging to spot, especially during a Tucson summer when the frozen coils are likely melting as fast as they were freezing.

If the coils are frozen, you’ll likely notice other signs as well.

You Notice Flooding Near the Indoor Drain Pan

Another way to tell if AC coils are frozen is by inspecting the indoor drain pan. This is located underneath the indoor evaporator coils in the air handler or furnace. You might see one fixed pan with a second, removable pan below it.

If you notice excessive puddles or water accumulation near the drain pan, this could indicate that the coils have been freezing and thawing. While it’s normal to occasionally see a small amount of water in this pan, it should never be full or overflowing. Excessive water indicates a leak due to ice buildup on the AC unit or another cause.

The AC Is Blowing Warm Air

If you have frozen evaporator coils, your AC unit likely will not work as it should. Noticing that your AC is blowing warm air should prompt you to take a closer look at the system and request an inspection from an HVAC professional. Whether the problem is the air conditioner freezing up or another issue, it won’t go away on its own.

You may also notice reduced airflow from the vents, which could happen when there is frost on the indoor AC unit. Anytime the AC isn’t cooling properly, scheduling service is a good idea. The solution may be as simple as cleaning the AC coils or as complex as replacing the coils altogether.

Contact Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling for an Inspection

The good news is that you don’t need to know how to tell if AC coils are frozen. You just need to know who to call when your AC starts acting up: Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling.

Our Tucson-based HVAC company is here to diagnose your HVAC problems and implement affordable, reliable, and long-lasting solutions. Let us help you prevent common air conditioning mistakes and protect your home comfort; contact us today at 520-207-0334 to request an estimate.

how to tell if ac is leaking refrigerant

Four Signs of an Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leak

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

A refrigerant leak in your air conditioner can cause many problems and should be repaired quickly. Tucson, AZ, AC repair experts can assist homeowners in identifying the cause of their leak and provide timely repairs to get the system running properly again.

Delaying repairs can lead to further issues, so it’s important for homeowners to look out for the following signs of low refrigerant levels.

1. Sudden Spikes in Electricity Bills

When the system leaks refrigerant, it can’t run efficiently and works harder than it should. The result is a higher utility bill, which homeowners may only notice over a few months. It’s best to compare bills from the previous year’s cooling season to identify major inconsistencies.

2. Poor Cooling Performance

The unit will not provide consistent cooling if a leak depletes refrigerant levels. Homeowners might notice poor airflow or warm air from the vents despite the unit being set to a cooling cycle. Long cooling cycles or frequent cycling on and off are also red flags for potential leaks.

If the system performs poorly, a refrigerant leak is one of the most common culprits. It is important to address the leak quickly to prevent the frequent cycles from damaging the unit further through excess wear and tear.

3. Unusual Noises From the Unit

Homeowners may notice a hissing noise from the unit as refrigerant escapes through a leak. Other noises to be wary of include rattling and clanging, which typically indicate failing components due to more complicated issues than a refrigerant leak (though a persistent, untreated leak can cause component damage and failure).

4. Excess Condensation and Ice Buildup

Finally, homeowners should look out for frozen condensation around the unit. The evaporator coils may freeze if too little refrigerant cycles through them, preventing them from absorbing adequate heat as designed. While some condensation on the coils is normal, when it becomes excessive or freezes, this is a major warning sign of a refrigerant leak.

Sometimes, the freezing coils will drip and cause the overflow drain pain to fill up and spill, resulting in visible water leaks around the unit. These leaks can cause serious water damage and be a breeding ground for mold and mildew if left to spread, so it’s vital to address them quickly.

Why Seek Professional Maintenance?

It’s always best to choose a professional air conditioning service over DIY approaches because certified HVAC contractors have the tools and expertise to safely and efficiently address the issue without damaging your home. Additionally, seasoned technicians can spot subtle signs of damage that homeowners might miss.

Trust Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling

Now that you know how to tell if your AC is leaking refrigerant, it’s time to seek professional support.

Tucson, AZ, residents can trust Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling to tackle their AC issues. Whether you’re struggling with a suspected refrigerant leak or bad AC smells, our expert team can help you restore your system’s efficiency and performance.

Call 520-207-0334 today to schedule your inspection or learn about seasonal maintenance services.

bad flame sensor

Symptoms of a Bad Flame Sensor and How To Fix It

Written by Eazy Breezy on . Posted in General.

Nothing indicates the need for furnace repair in Marana, AZ, more than a bad flame sensor. How can you tell when this issue is affecting your heating system? Below, our experts at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling share the warning signs to watch for and troubleshooting tips.

You Notice Yellow Instead of Blue Burner Flames

Gas furnaces will emit bright blue flames to signify complete combustion. If you happen to see pale yellow flames while inspecting your system during operation, turn it off and contact a professional technician. Flame discoloration may be due to carbon buildup on the sensors, indicating a possible carbon monoxide leak.

Fixing the problem involves cleaning the sensor and checking for other carbon monoxide risks, such as a cracked heat exchanger.

The Furnace Turns On and Off Frequently

Furnace short cycling could be indicative of several common problems, including:

  • Clogged air filters
  • Blocked vents
  • Incorrect system sizing
  • Faulty thermostat

Perhaps the most serious cause of short cycling is a bad flame sensor. Make sure you schedule routine furnace maintenance to prevent these issues. During a tune-up, technicians perform sensor cleaning and maintenance so the system can complete a full heating cycle without issue.

You Experience Poor Temperature Regulation Throughout Your Home

Does your thermostat never seem to reach your desired temperature? Do some rooms feel warmer than others? If so, it may be time to inspect your furnace’s ignition system.

Shut off the furnace and then ignite the pilot light. If it quickly goes out, confirm that you have a steady flow of gas to the system and close any nearby doors or windows that may cause a draft. Barring other remedies, turn your attention to the flame sensor.

A buildup of dirt and grime on the surface may prevent it from recognizing the pilot light’s flame. If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s also possible that the sensor has naturally failed, as these components typically only last about 20 years.

Your Furnace Emits Harsh Odors

The main purpose of your furnace’s flame sensor is to protect your home from a dangerous gas leak. Manufacturers design these systems to open their gas valve only when the sensor detects a flame.

Natural gas may begin to waft through your home when the furnace isn’t running, which points to a dirty or malfunctioning sensor. Be mindful of any exhaust odors you smell during or after a heating cycle, and reach out to a professional for immediate intervention if you suspect a gas leak.

Restore Furnace Issues With the Trusted Experts at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling

Don’t let a bad flame sensor leave you in the cold. At Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling, we provide HVAC tips and services to keep you comfortable all year long. Turn to our licensed technicians for everything from faulty gas valve detection to long-lasting furnace repairs.

We’re standing by and ready to help! Call 520-207-0334 to request immediate service.