If you used your air conditioner constantly over the summer, you might wonder how to prepare your HVAC system for winter. Keep reading for seven fall HVAC tips that ensure your system makes it through winter without complication.

As the top-rated HVAC experts in Tucson, our Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling team provides prompt and reliable service from installation to maintenance and repair. To learn what we can do for you or book an appointment, call us at 520-207-0334.

1. Check Your Air Filters

Air filter replacement is easy but one of the most important ways of keeping your HVAC system in peak working condition. You can choose from various types of filters, including washable or replaceable, so ask your HVAC technician what’s best for your needs.

While some filters can last up to 90 days, you should check them for dirt buildup every month and replace or clean them as needed. If you smoke, own pets, experience allergies or respiratory issues, or live in a highly polluted area, your filter may require more frequent attention.

2. Address Leaks

Finding and plugging leaks in your windows, doors, and insulation increases your energy efficiency and helps your furnace keep your home warmer during the winter. Since your system won’t work as hard to maintain the temperature, you’ll save money on your utility bills in the long term.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit

If you have central air or a heat pump, at least part of your HVAC system rests outside. The outdoor portion of your air conditioner or heat pump is vulnerable to dirt and debris or even small animals crawling inside and becoming stuck. As part of your fall routine, clean the unit to prevent more serious damage.

4. Inspect Safety Features

Aside from regular HVAC maintenance, one of the most important fall HVAC tips is to perform a complete system inspection for your family’s safety. Verify your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have full batteries and work accurately.

5. Install a Programmable Thermostat

Your thermostat settings are one of the most significant indicators of your energy usage. A programmable thermostat gives you greater control over your settings, even when you’re away from home. Since it helps you run your system more efficiently, it can also increase each device’s life expectancy.

6. Clear Your Vents and Ducts

You should schedule professional duct cleaning every three to five years. However, in the fall, verify your vents and ducts are free of dust and remain unblocked by furniture or curtains.

7. Consider Upgrading

When you upgrade to an energy-efficient HVAC solution, you save money and increase your system’s life expectancy. Increased energy efficiency is environmentally friendly and leaves you with more room in your budget for discretionary spending.

Let Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling Prepare Your HVAC System for Winter

Do you want help implementing these fall HVAC tips? Whether you have questions about basic HVAC terms or are scheduling your annual HVAC maintenance, our Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling team offers superior service. Call 520-207-0334 to book an appointment today.

If you’ve been experiencing exceptionally hot days or nights, you might consider adding another window air conditioner. But can you plug an air conditioner into a power strip safely as you would with smaller appliances? 

As the best servicer of HVAC in Tucson, Eazy Breezy Heating and Cooling offers air conditioner maintenance, repairs, and installation to keep your home cool year round. Keep reading to find out what these experts say about using a power strip for an air conditioner and various alternatives.

There Are Some Dangers of Using a Power Strip

Let’s start with the basics. For safety reasons, you should only ever plug an air conditioner directly into the wall and never into a power strip or an extension cord. An air conditioner requires far more power than most other appliances, so using a power strip can easily cause electrical fires. 

Does your air conditioner not reach the wall? You can upgrade the unit with a special 12-foot cord.

So, can you plug an air conditioner into a power strip? No, you can’t. But even if you plug it into a wall, you’ll need a proper surge protector to counteract power surges.

There Are Several Ways to Protect Your Home and Appliances

Are you looking to protect your property’s electrical systems in really hot weather? Follow these suggestions:

• Don’t overload outlets. Plug in one device for each plug point.
• Only use extension cords temporarily.
• Don’t use damaged cords.
• Keep cords away from rugs and furniture.
• Don’t charge electrical devices, like laptops and phones, on soft or flammable surfaces, like beds or couches. 
• Hire a licensed electrician to handle any faulty electrical work. 
• Schedule an electrical inspection every 10 years.

There Are Many Benefits of Installing a Surge Protector

In addition to maintaining your air conditioner, installing a surge protector is paramount to a safe home. It provides several benefits, including the following:

• Multiple devices: With a traditional power strip, you run the risk of fire and other damage if you plug in multiple devices. A surge protector comes with a Joule rating, which makes it safe to handle more powerful devices using only a single outlet.
• Storm protection: Lightning strikes are common causes of power surges that damage air conditioners. Without protection, it could burn out your unit and require an expensive replacement.
• Affordability: You can find a basic surge protector for the price of a family dinner. Even if you purchase a more expensive or powerful version, it still saves you money compared to replacing burnt-out appliances.

If you live in an area with frequent storms or an old electrical grid, surge protectors are a good idea. Be sure to ask your local electrical team about whole-home surge protectors, too.

There Are Local Professionals To Tell You More!

Now you know the answer to, “Can you plug an air conditioner into a power strip?” If you’d like to know more, you can trust Eazy Breezy Heating and Cooling for answers surrounding replacing an air conditioner, installing a new furnace, and much more. Call 520-207-0334 to schedule an appointment today!

As temperatures rise and outdoor projects take flight, you need a safe haven with ample cool air in which you can escape. You need your HVAC system to work reliably throughout the season. 

Our trusted HVAC contractors in Tucson, AZ, at Easy Breezy Heating & Cooling provide a few summer HVAC tips to keep your air conditioner running reliably. Call 520-207-0334 for reliable HVAC services. 

#1 Adjust Your Thermostat

Hot outdoor air tempts you to turn your thermostat down much as possible. However, this approach can overwork your HVAC unit and increase your energy bills. Permanently setting your thermostat below 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months will quickly wear out numerous components, like the blower motor and compressor. 

Set your thermostat for at least 76 degrees, or gain better control of your indoor temperature settings with a smart thermostat. You can let your AC rest while you’re away. Then, turn it on before you head home and enjoy cool air when you walk in. 

You can easily manage your thermostat settings via a mobile app.

#2 Check Your Air Filters

Air filters have a big impact on your air quality and energy savings. An old, dirty air filter hampers air flow. It also allows particles of dust, mold, dander, and other allergens to recirculate through your system. 

Change your air filter every 90 days. Many HVAC technicians recommend inspecting the filter monthly to ensure its filtration performance. Monthly inspections ensure that you can replace it as soon as it starts looking grimy and dusty. 

#3 Examine Your Vents and Ducts

All too often, ducts and vents go completely unnoticed in many households. These components make up the network that transfers conditioned air into each room. As such, they are prone to buildup. 

Although your filter eliminates most of the dust from the air, particles can still collect along the insides of vents and ducts. Examine and clean your ductwork just before hot weather sets in. You can use a clean cloth, warm water, and dish soap to gently remove buildup.

One of these summer HVAC tips involves keeping the vents open for air circulation. Schedule duct cleaning services with a reliable HVAC service.  

#4 Inspect Your Outdoor Unit

In spring, go outside and check on your outdoor unit. You might notice sticks, leaves, dead grass, and other detritus sticking to the sides of it. This debris can inhibit your HVAC unit’s performance by preventing important parts from circulating the air. Carefully remove the debris yourself or seek assistance from an HVAC technician if you are unable. 

#5 Schedule Regular Maintenance

Maintenance services involve regular visits from a skilled HVAC technician. The technician will inspect indoor and outdoor units and even clean or repair certain parts like condenser coils. Maintenance services are a proactive way to better manage your HVAC system and save money.

Implement These and Other Summer HVAC Tips with Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling

Looking for more summer HVAC tips to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency? Learn about the best thermostat location from our team at Easy Breezy Heating & Cooling. Call 520-207-0334 to schedule our professional services.

HVAC systems often develop problems after sitting dormant throughout the winter. That’s why spring is the perfect time to clean and inspect these units. Regular maintenance from HVAC contractors in Tucson ensures your system is in good shape.

Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling is on-call for all your spring HVAC maintenance needs. Call 520-207-0334 to schedule an inspection today. In the meantime, read on and get ready to prep your HVAC for summer.

1. Clean the Indoor and Outdoor AC Units

Debris accumulates around your AC units whether you use them or not. Anything within a two-foot radius can cause a problem, including furniture, dust bunnies, and overgrown weeds. Clear the area around your AC units, both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, and scrape off the dirt for optimal performance.

2. Replace the Air Filters

HVAC systems with clogged filters will drive up your energy bills. That’s why experts recommend cleaning or replacing your air filters every 90 days.

Maintaining your air conditioner and replacing air filters can reduce household energy consumption by up to 15%. Kick off your spring HVAC maintenance by installing a fresh filter.

3. Clear the Drainage Hole

Your HVAC system might also have a clogged drainage hole. Pull out the drainage tray on your AC unit to check for moisture. If there’s standing water in the tray, you’ll need to clean the drainage hole and remove the blockages. HVAC technicians can assist if you’re not sure where to start.

4. Inspect Air Ducts

You should also include an air duct inspection on your spring HVAC checklist. Your household ventilation will suffer if you have damaged, leaky, or clogged air ducts. Get expert help to check the hard-to-reach areas.

5. Keeps Doors and Windows Closed Whenever Possible

Once your AC is up and running, you have to keep the cool air inside. Make it a habit to shut your doors and windows — it’s easier to regulate the temperature this way. Seal up drafts as well.

This practice also improves your indoor air quality because it reduces airborne dirt and pollen.

6. Test Your HVAC System Early in the Season

After you complete all the other maintenance, run an early test. If there’s an issue with your air conditioner, you don’t want to discover it on a truly hot day.

When the temperature hits about 60 degrees, turn on your air conditioner and let it run for several minutes. Walk around your house and listen for unusual sounds. Check the temperature after 15 minutes to check the system’s performance.

It’s essential to test your AC early in the season. HVAC repair is in high demand once temperatures hit the 80s and 90s. The sooner you test it, the sooner you can seek necessary repairs. Get your AC ready for summer before the heat arrives. 

7. Schedule Spring HVAC Maintenance

If your HVAC won’t turn on at all, you may have a more serious problem. Our experienced technicians at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling can tell you more about spring HVAC maintenance. We’ll get your system ready for the upcoming year. 

Call 520-207-0334 to schedule your service today!

A pressure switch works with electricity the way a dam works with water. If the dam is open, water can flow freely. If the dam is closed, it prevents water from moving.

Likewise, when the pressure switch is open, electricity can flow through. When the pressure switch is closed, it stops the flow of electricity. So what happens when a furnace pressure switch goes bad?

If you suspect your furnace pressure switch is faulty, you need professional furnace repair from Tucson’s HVAC company. Our technicians at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling in Tucson, Arizona, are available to diagnose any furnace problems. Call us at 520-207-0334 to schedule reliable service in Tuscon, AZ.

Signs of a Bad Pressure Switch 

The furnace pressure switch is a safety device that makes sure your furnace is working properly. The signs of a bad furnace pressure switch can be pretty obvious.

When you know what to look for, it’s easy to see what happens when a furnace pressure switch goes bad. If you notice any of the following, you could have a furnace issue on your hands:

An Unexpected Light Show

If you think the pressure switch has gone bad, take a look inside your furnace. If you see a pulsing light inside that you have never seen before, that is a signal to you from the circuit board that there is a problem. 

Cool Air Only

A lack of hot air blowing through the vents is probably your first clue that your furnace is experiencing mechanical failure. If you keep bumping up the temperature, but your house is not getting any warmer, that is a major cause for concern.

Total Decline

Your furnace may shut off unexpectedly and then decline into not functioning at all. If this happens, schedule a professional to inspect your unit. Older furnace models have different levels of efficiency than newer furnace models. 

Common Causes of Furnace Pressure Switch Failure

Furnace problems are bound to happen eventually. A handful of issues could contribute to a bad pressure switch. 

Older Parts

With regular furnace maintenance, a pressure switch typically has a life of about 15 years, but none of them last forever. If your furnace pressure switch is older than the family dog, it will begin showing signs of age and likely need a replacement soon. 

Normal Wear and Tear

Regular use over the cold season and throughout the years takes a toll on your furnace. A trained HVAC technician can examine the pressure switch and detect cracks and other damage caused by normal use.

Dirt

During your annual cleaning appointment, your HVAC professional will fully clean the inside of your furnace. Doing so prevents dirt from hindering the functionality of the pressure switch. 

Let the Experts Help

What happens when a furnace pressure switch goes bad? In short, the entire furnace suffers, necessitating professional service.

Repair costs and efficiency levels vary when it comes to gas vs. electric furnaces. Whether you need yearly maintenance, a quick repair, or a total replacement, call 520-207-0334 to schedule an appointment in the Tucson, Arizona, area with the experts at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling.

When you turn on the heat and notice a smoke smell from the furnace, it’s normal to feel concerned about a serious problem with your heating system. As the most trusted HVAC contractor in Tucson, our Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling team receives many calls from homeowners worried about smoky odors from their heaters. 

If you smell smoke when you run the furnace, call us at (520) 207-0334 to have a technician investigate the problem. If you suspect gas leaks, call 911 and leave your home immediately for safety. Otherwise, keep reading to learn the most common furnace odors and their causes and how to solve—and prevent—unpleasant heating odors. 

Musty Smells 

One of the most common and normal reasons for furnace odors is dust buildup on components like burners and heat exchangers. The first time you turn on the furnace after the summer, accumulated dust burns off and creates a musty or smoky smell that typically goes away after a few hours. Scheduling a furnace tune-up and cleaning before the heating season can help keep it from happening.  

“Something’s Burning” 

If, after a few hours, there’s still a smoke smell from the furnace, it just smells like something is burning, or the smell appears suddenly, you may have a clogged air filter. Blocked air filters cause blower motors to work harder than usual, which can cause overheating and a burning smell. If the odor doesn’t go away after you change the filter or the current filter is clean, the burning smell may be from an electrical issue that requires immediate attention to prevent a fire.

Burning Plastic

The smell of burning plastic from the furnace could indicate a foreign object, like a toy, caught in the HVAC system. It might also mean something inside the furnace is malfunctioning. In either case, to prevent toxic fumes and further damage, call for an inspection and repairs.

Burning Oil 

An oily odor from the furnace is most often a sign that it’s time to change the oil filter. A dirty oil filter can cause overheating and damage to the furnace. Changing the filter should solve the problem, but if it doesn’t, turn off the furnace to prevent a fire and call an HVAC professional for help. 

Gunpowder 

A gunpowder or firework-type sulfurous odor is usually a sign of an overheated blower motor or a damaged circuit board. In either case, turn off the furnace to prevent further damage and schedule furnace repairs. 

Call Us for Help with Furnace Problems  

When you have concerns about a smoke smell from the furnace or any other HVAC issues, call our professionals at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling at (520) 207-0334 for prompt, professional, and affordable service. We can also help prevent furnace problems with regular maintenance and tune-ups to ensure critical components are clean and in good working condition. If we determine it’s time for a new home furnace, you can trust us to help you select the perfect model and provide reliable and efficient installation.

Why won’t my HVAC turn on? It is a valid question if you live or work in the Arizona heat. Locals understand the importance of a fully functional HVAC system, so what are the options when the system breaks down?

As the HVAC experts in Green Valley, Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling shares six reasons for malfunctioning HVAC systems in Tucson, AZ, and nearby areas.

1. A Tripped Circuit Breaker

Strained circuit breakers will shut off under an overload of electricity. Manufacturers design them to protect a home and appliances against fire and other damages. So, if the HVAC does not turn on, the first check is for a circuit breaker that needs resetting.

Has the problem persisted after the reset? Even broken wires in a light switch can distort the circuit, so call a team like Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling as soon as possible. A qualified electrician will need to evaluate the property’s circuitry to find the cause of the overload.

2. A Blown Fuse

Are the fuses in good condition? Professionals typically test these points for continuity using a multimeter. If there is no decisive beep from the fuse in question, it will need replacement.

The fuse box for air conditioners is typically around the outdoor unit. The control board holds the fuse for the furnaces.

3. Clogged Air Filters or Evaporator Coils

Why won’t my HVAC turn on with the circuit breaker up and working fuses? The next check would be for dirty filters, which easily lead to ice forming over air conditioning coils. In a furnace, a dirty air filter will limit the fresh air cycled into the system so that the heat exchanger heats up beyond normal and deactivates.

Similarly, evaporator coils (and other such components) must be free from debris to work properly. Without maintenance, an HVAC system will lose efficiency and eventually break down.

4. A Dirty Pilot Light

Is there a faulty or dirty pilot light? The gas furnace will not turn on while it is in that condition. Furnace repair technicians will easily take care of pilot light problems, but it might be possible to check it yourself with some mechanical expertise and a user manual.

5. A Refrigerant Leak

What will happen when there is a refrigerant leak? The system will stop working, or worse, it can lead to freon poisoning. If you suspect a leak, call an HVAC professional immediately for a detailed evaluation.

6. A Broken Thermostat

The HVAC thermostat is a vital part of the system as the control panel of the appliance. If the thermostat loses battery power or sustains damage, your HVAC units will not run.

Request an Inspection From a Team of HVAC Professionals

Sometimes, the best way to find out why an HVAC isn’t working is a professional inspection by experienced HVAC technicians. And choosing the right HVAC contractor can make all the difference.

Why won’t my HVAC turn on with all the above checks in place? Call Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling at 520-207-0334 today to find out or schedule HVAC-related services in Tucson, AZ, and the surrounding communities.

What is static pressure in HVAC? How does it affect your heating and cooling system, and how can you maintain it properly? Rely on Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling, your local HVAC specialists in Oro Valley, to provide the HVAC assistance you need.

Are you worried about your HVAC system’s health? Reach out to our team of experienced and highly skilled experts by calling 520-207-0334.

What Is Static Pressure in HVAC Systems?

What is static pressure in HVAC systems?

The definition relates to the airflow resistance in the ductwork and other essential components. Low static pressure results in low airflow, while high static pressure allows for a strong flow through the air ducts.

To visualize this, imagine the blower motor in your system as a water source that connects to a garden hose. Wide open hoses don’t push the water out as quickly, but a narrow hose or hose nozzle increases pressure to more efficient levels.

Of course, your HVAC system doesn’t need to reach super high pressure, but it should achieve a balance that works for the size of your residence or commercial building. Experts can perform load calculations to identify the best balance for your system for maximum efficiency.

Effects of Improper Static Pressure Balance

What happens to your HVAC system if the pressure balance isn’t within the recommendations of the manufacturer? What causes this pressure imbalance? Unbalanced static pressure in heating and cooling systems has several potential causes. 

For example, a blocked or excessively restricted air filter or the wrong size of ductwork due to a poor system design can cause imbalances in the flow of air within the building. This imbalance can negatively impact your system in multiple ways, such as:

• More frequent part wear-down and need for repair
• High energy bills from long run times and loss of efficiency
• Noisy operation
• Uneven heating or cooling
• Leak development in the ductwork

High or low static pressure can cause the above symptoms and eventually lead to HVAC system failure. Your system needs to have a balance of static pressure to allow for optimal airflow from the intake through the vents to ensure even heating and cooling for maximum comfort.

Find Expert HVAC Services in Tucson, AZ

Do the above symptoms of static pressure imbalance sound familiar to you? Are you looking for a trusted HVAC company in Tucson to help you with your heating and cooling system? Our team at Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling offers the repair and installation services you need all year round!

We provide inspections and repair services to troubleshoot your heating and cooling system and find a solution to maintain your comfort. Be sure to ask about our current special offers and installation financing plans to better manage your HVAC investment.

Knowing the answer to “What is static pressure in HVAC?” doesn’t mean you have to tackle repairs yourself. If you suspect your HVAC unit needs help, call our Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling technicians at 520-207-0334 today!

Maintaining a healthy HVAC system is crucial to keeping your home interiors comfortable. However, these complex systems require routine maintenance and upkeep to function optimally. 

Consider changing air filters a necessary step to keep your HVAC system functioning healthily. But what if you don’t have a new filter and need your air conditioner to continue running? How long can you run AC without a filter?

While it’s possible to run your AC system safely for up to eight hours without a filter, hiring Oro Valley’s HVAC services to replace your filters quickly offers the perfect solution. Understanding why air filters are necessary for a healthy system can avoid costly repairs and replacements.

How Air Filters Function in an AC System

Air conditioning systems recycle air throughout your home to provide climate control. Return air vents suck in your interior air, bringing it back into the AC system, where it cools and redistributes it through supply air vents.

Within the return air vents are air filters. As these vents bring air into your AC unit, the filter actively cleans out dirt, mold spores, debris, and bacteria that might not be visible. Especially for homes with children and pets, these filters eliminate quantities of contaminants from the air.

How AC Filters Benefit Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system benefits significantly from air filters. If unfiltered air blows through your system for too long, dust and debris can accumulate on the mechanisms of your AC unit. These contaminants can cause breakdowns that become expensive to resolve.

The Dangers of Running AC Without a Filter

Answering the question “how long can you run AC without a filter” is impossible without exploring the consequences of overrunning your system this way. Below we list some of the top concerns.

Degrading Air Quality

A lack of a filter decreases your home’s air quality considerably. While allowing small amounts of dust and bacteria to recycle through your home’s air may not seem awful, these contaminants can cause adverse respiratory and asthmatic effects. 

Running your AC without a filter too long could increase your chances of sickness. Dirty air can also damage your compressor, another costly system component.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Dust and debris that flow through an unfiltered AC system will likely settle in the evaporator coils. These coils are responsible for combining refrigerant with the warm air drawn in from your home. 

If evaporator coils become too dirty, they’ll work harder to compensate. However, the additional workload combined with refrigerant attaching to dust particles could freeze your coils. Frozen coils also lead to costly repairs.

Decreased Efficiency and Increased Utility Bills

Dirty air will decrease your AC unit’s efficiency as it works harder to reach desired temperatures. A less efficient system will usually result in increased utility bills. 

Air Conditioning Repair and Maintenance Services From Eazy Breezy Heating and Cooling

For more answers to the question “how long can you run AC without a filter” or to learn about the signs it’s time to replace your air conditioner, call (520) 207-0334 and schedule a service consultation with Eazy Breezing Heating and Cooling today!