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geothermal heat pumps

What Are Geothermal Heat Pumps and How Can They Benefit Bellville, OH Homeowners?

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

Despite the growing popularity of solar panels in the United States, there could be a better solution to rising energy costs. It’s called geothermal energy, and it works by harnessing the natural heating and cooling of the Earth’s crust.

But, what are geothermal heat pumps, exactly? While it might sound complicated, it’s actually quite simple.

If you’re looking for a new heating and cooling solution, read this guide to learn more about geothermal heat pumps. You might be surprised to learn how great of a solution they can be for Bellville, Ohio homeowners.

Components of a Geothermal Heating and Cooling System

There are three main parts of a geothermal heating and cooling system. They are:

  • The ground loop
  • The heat pump
  • The distribution system

Each of these pieces is essential to the operations of the geothermal system. Let’s break down how they work.

The Ground Loop

Much like it sounds, the ground loop is a piping system that sits underground on your property. The loop itself can be either closed or open. If it’s open, it’ll open into any nearby water source, such as a well or pond.

The purpose of these pipes is to fill them with fluid. This helps the system in the heat exchange process.

The Heat Pump

The geothermal heat pump is what actually performs the heat exchange between the ground loop and the outside air. Whether the heat will come from the outside air or the ground loop will depend on if you are heating or cooling the home.

We’ll explain this process in a bit more detail later.

The Distribution System

Once the heat has been exchanged, it needs somewhere to go. The distribution system is what actually delivers the cooled or heated air to your home.

These HVAC systems work pretty similarly to a regular air conditioning/heating unit. They use ductwork to deliver the air, just like a regular HVAC system.

In some cases, geothermal distribution systems are hydraulically powered. This means you may have fluid-filled pipes running throughout your home to aid in temperature distribution.

How Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Work?

All geothermal services are powered by the geothermal heat pump. It works by exchanging the ground’s heat and the air’s heat. This process is possible because the temperature underground generally remains at a consistent 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.

The Heating Process

Let’s go through the heating process step-by-step:

  1. Ground loop fluid absorbs the heat of the Earth
  2. The heat pump pushes the fluid from the ground loop up into the home
  3. The heat pump’s heat exchanger uses the energy from this heat to warm the air within the distribution system
  4. The ductwork of the distribution system spreads the heated air throughout the home

The Cooling Process

This process essentially reverses when it comes time to cool the home. So, the cooling process works like this:

  1. The heat exchanger absorbs the heat from the air
  2. The heat pump sends this heat into the fluid of the ground loop system
  3. The ground loop deposits this heat into the surrounding earth, clearing it from the air and cooling the home

It might sound like science fiction, but it’s really just…well, science!

The Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pumps

There are a lot of reasons why geothermal heat pump installation is a good idea for homeowners. Primarily, though, it comes down to cost and energy efficiency.

Though solar panels might be all the rage right now, you might be surprised to learn that geothermal systems actually tend to be the better deal. Here’s why:

Energy Efficiency

A geothermal system is about twice as efficient as any top-of-the-line conventional air conditioning or gas furnace system, depending on a variety of environmental factors.

For example, it takes a traditional system 2.2 kilowatt-hours of electricity to produce 12,000 Btu of cooling on a 95-degree Fahrenheit day. A geothermal system can manage the same output in only a single kilowatt-hour.

Additionally, geothermal systems are much quieter than their conventional counterparts. Instead of needing noisy fans, they only require the pumping of liquid. This also means the system can be housed indoors, which helps it to last longer than more traditional alternatives.

Of course, all this energy efficiency means good news for the environment. It’s also great news for your wallet.

Save Money

The initial cost of installation for a geothermal system can be quite steep. This is due to the large amount of piping installation required for the system to function.

However, the amount you save on energy costs quickly adds up once the installation is complete. In fact, the best geothermal heat pump for your situation could have you recouping costs, and then some, in as little as seven years.

In Bellville, Ohio, specifically, these savings can really add up in those cold winter months. Instead of facing high utility costs this Christmas, you could be spending your money on gifts for your loved ones.

Most ground loop systems also last 50 years or more. This means you could end up saving on energy costs for life thanks to a one-time installation fee.

The Heating and Cooling of the Future

As you can see, geothermal heat pumps are a good idea for almost any homeowner. With experts on your side, you can also make sure you’re getting a system that works perfectly for you and your family’s energy needs.

If you’re ready to learn more about geothermal heating and cooling systems, contact our team. We’re standing by to help ensure homeowners in Mt Vernon, Fredericktown, Howard, Gambier, and Bellville, Ohio spend less on their energy bills.

7 Furnace Maintenance Tips for Homeowners in Mt Vernon, OH

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

When you imagine an idyllic winter, you’re probably dreaming of cozy nights, holiday meals, and snow frosting your windows.

What you probably aren’t hoping for are nights spent shivering because of a broken furnace.

Did you know that replacing your furnace can cost you up to $7,000?

A hefty bill like that does not bode well for the holiday season. But, how do you maintain your furnace and prevent any unnecessary repairs?

Read on to discover 7 tips for furnace maintenance! By spending some time upfront on your furnace maintenance checklist, you’ll save yourself a lot of money and strife later on!

1. Check Your Furnace Early

A furnace is an appliance in your home that likely isn’t given much thought. It runs itself and shouldn’t need to be replaced often. Many homeowners may have never done any work to maintain their furnaces.

However, the furnace keeps your home warm, which is especially important in the colder months of the year.

The colder it gets, the harder your furnace has to work to heat the house. Therefore, the more likely it is to break down or need repairs.

You don’t want to have your furnace down while temperatures are below-freezing outside. It’s best to start your annual furnace maintenance earlier in the year to be safe.

Performing your furnace care in the fall is a best practice to ensure that you go into winter confident.

2. Clean Around Your Furnace

While cleaning the furnace itself is important, it’s also important to keep the area around your furnace clean and free of any flammable objects.

When there is dirt, debris, or just a build-up of clutter around the furnace, you’re increasing the chances that the furnace will break down or be a fire hazard.

Just like you clean all of the other areas of your home regularly, add the furnace area to that list too!

Make it a habit to never store flammable objects near your furnace.

3. Assess Your Thermostat

One sign that your furnace may need repairs is that your thermostat isn’t reflecting the correct temperatures.

If your thermostat is reading a certain temperature that you don’t think is accurate, it may need to be replaced or rewired. If that’s the case, your furnace won’t be able to function either.

For assistance in calibrating your thermostat, reach out to an HVAC advisor who is certified to analyze thermostats.

They can also check that the thermostat’s wires are tight and installed correctly.

4. Change the Air Filters

Air filters work to keep the air quality inside your house pristine. Essentially, they keep the bad stuff out and the good stuff in. Therefore, neglecting your air filters can be dangerous to your health.

By neglecting your air filters, allergens, pests, and bacteria are more likely to enter your home and be breathed in by your family.

Air filters need to be regularly changed to keep them functioning at top quality. Plus, your furnace will not be as effective if your air filters aren’t cleaned.

Luckily, changing the air filters is a relatively easy task that anyone can do!

5. Empty the Drainage Tube

Your furnace has a drainage tube that collects water that is created by the heat of the furnace. While some of this water turns into steam, some just collect in the drainage tube.

If that drainage tube clogs or becomes too dirty, there is nowhere for the water to collect. This might cause the water to overflow, which could result in several issues for your furnace.

Visually check your drainage tube to ensure that it’s clean and if not, clean it out manually by blowing air through it or using chemicals to remove any build-up.

6. Clean the Vents in Your House

Another neglected area of your home may be the vents. The vents are the delivery method for the air and heat that circulates throughout your home.

Make sure that the vents are clean of any dust or debris and that they are open for air to flow freely.

A common mistake people make is covering their air vents with furniture or other objects. This can make the furnace-less effective and may be causing your energy bill to be higher than it needs to be. It also means that your furnace is working overtime to heat your house.

Although it’s a chore that no one likes to do, cleaning the vents is a necessary task.

7. Work with a Furnace Maintenance Technician

While most routine, annual maintenance on your furnace can be done yourself, if you do happen to notice a larger problem, you’ll want to reach out to an HVAC professional.

The furnace is a costly item to repair and can also be dangerous if not handled correctly.

So, when in doubt, contact an HVAC advisor who has experience working with furnaces. While this will cost you upfront, they may be able to save you money in the long run by diagnosing your furnace repair problems more accurately.

Don’t Neglect the Furnace, Contact Heating and Cooling for Heating System Maintenance

For most people, the holidays are already a busy time of year when there seem to be a million and one tasks to do. Adding another item to that list may be a chore, but it must be done.

By following these 7 furnace tips, you may very well be saving yourself money and time in the future.

And if caring for your furnace seems out of your depth or you notice a larger problem at hand, make sure to contact an HVAC professional for help.

If you’re in Mt Vernon, Fredericktown, Howard, Gambier, or Bellville in Ohio, contact us today for all of your furnace maintenance needs!

massive ac energy bill

How Can Homeowners in Bellville, OH Lower Their Massive AC Energy Bill

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

In 2021, the average American paid about $117 a month on their energy bill. The cost of cooling your home can be a burden, and you may be stressed about paying for it. If you have a massive AC energy bill, you’re probably looking for ways to decrease the amount.

There are many things you can do to reduce the amount you pay each month. Keep reading to find out easy tips and tricks that can help you save money.

Regular HVAC Maintenance

While it may not seem important to have your HVAC system checked once a year, it can help reduce your massive AC energy bill significantly. A professional in Ohio will be able to spot any issues and fix them before they cause too much damage. Having the system cleaned will also keep it running efficiently.

Tint Your Windows

You may love the natural light that your home gets, but it may be the cause of your high electric bill. If the sun shines directly into your house, you may want to invest in window tinting, curtains, or shutters.

These items can help keep your home cool during the day when the outside temperature is high. Your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to cool the place down. While you’re doing this step, you should also check your windows for broken seals and cracks.

If the window isn’t properly sealed, the outside temperature will come into your home and the AC unit won’t be as efficient. The same thing goes for the doors. You won’t want to waste money by letting your cool air outside.

Insulate Your Home

Having your home insulated isn’t a cheap project. However, you can save up to 15% on your heating and cooling costs by insulating your basement, attic, and crawl spaces.

Insulation helps keep cool air in during the summer and slows down the rate at which heat leaves during the winter. You can also insulate your hot water heater to reduce the amount of heat that escapes.

Schedule an Energy Audit

Having an audit performed each year will help you identify where you are spending the most money. Typically, utility companies in Ohio will offer a free audit and give you advice on what changes you can make.

It’s crucial to have these audits done regularly, so you can always stay on top of your bill. Once you have the audit list, you can make changes accordingly. These might change during different seasons.

An easy change you can make is by moving your refrigerator to the basement instead of keeping it in the garage. The garage has more exposure to outside temperatures. The basement’s temperature will be more constant and monitored.

Upgrade Your Appliances

As your appliances age, they become less efficient. The less efficient they are, the more money you’re going to spend on your electric bill.

It may take two or three years for your appliances to pay for themselves, but it’ll be worth it. Take a look at all the appliances you have in your home. They may not need to be replaced all at once.

If a new washing machine or refrigerator is not in your budget, there are still ways you can save. Your fridge and freezer will use less energy if it’s full too.

Washing your clothes with cold water and only washing full loads can help. Every time you switch your laundry to the dryer, be sure to clean out the lint catcher.

This will speed up the drying process. Adding dryer balls to the load will also decrease the amount of time the clothes need to dry.

Another option is to hang your clothes to dry. This may not be possible in the humid Ohio summers, but it can be helpful in reducing your bill during the upcoming fall season.

Change Your Filters

Set a reminder to change your AC filter. Having someone come in once a year is not often enough for the filter. You should be taking the time every 30 days to change them out.

They collect dust and other particles that after a while block airflow, which makes it hard to cool your home. Switching out the filters only takes a few minutes, and the filters are affordable. Be sure to get the right size, though.

Invest in Solar Panels

If you’re looking to save a lot of money, consider solar energy. Installing solar panels has a lot of upfront costs, but you’ll save money every month. They are very efficient and you can get money back from the government.

If you aren’t ready to install panels, you can purchase solar lights for your yard. They absorb energy from the sun during the day and then run all night without costing you a dime.

Your outdoor lights probably run all night long, which can be a waste. You can save money by installing motion detector lights that turn on when someone approaches.

Massive AC Energy Bill

Owning a home is a lot of work, and there are a lot of bills that have to be paid including your utility bill. If you have a massive AC energy bill, follow the steps above to reduce the cost.

There are many ways that you may start to feel overwhelmed. Start by making one change at a time so you don’t become too stressed.

For AC Maintenance in Mt. Vernon, OH Contact Cosby Heating and Cooling

Many homeowners come to us with their heating and cooling needs. If you live in Mt. Vernon, Fredericktown, Howard, Gambier, and Bellville and you’re ready to install a new HVAC system, contact us.

Air Conditioning Repair

Top Questions To Ask When Choosing an Air Conditioning Repair Company in Bellville, Oh

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

Last year, the HVAC systems market had a value of $16.54 billion. Researchers expect it to grow at a rate of 5.6% till 2030.

With global warming influencing the change of weather patterns, it can be impossible to do without an efficient HVAC unit. Looking for a reliable air conditioning repair company is the secret.

Many factors influence your choice of company. Choosing a company when your HVAC system is down is setting yourself up for failure. Take your time before hiring any company to avoid complications in the future.

In this article, we will discuss the top questions you need to ask when choosing an air conditioning repair company in Bellville, Oh.

9 Questions to Ask AC Contractors

1. How Long Have You Operated in Bellville, Oh?

As a smart Bellville homeowner, you must conduct plenty of research first. The web is an excellent place to start as you can get a list of HVAC service companies in the area.

Get curious about their years of experience and shortlist companies. The longest years of operation don’t always translate to the best services. However, an established business will reduce your worry.

Long years of operation also suggest that they have in-depth knowledge of the common HVAC unit models in the area.

At Cosby, we have provided the best air conditioning services in the Ohio area since 1982. We are proud of our years of experience and service. And look forward to many more.

2. Is the Company Licensed?

Repairing air conditioning units isn’t a small task and requires careful planning and detailing. This job is best performed by contractors who have undergone proper training.

You can verify this by asking for their licenses. Government permits are only issued after ensuring that the contractors are competent.

The license should be valid at the time of operation. Otherwise, hiring such a company might land you in trouble with the law.

3. Is the Company Insured?

Ohio state laws require air conditioning companies to have taken out insurance policies on their workers. Handling HVAC units put them at risk of electrocution and other accidents.

If anything happens, liability can easily fall on your side. Thus, it’s essential to inquire about the specifics of the insurance policies. Ensure the company will take full liability in case of workplace accidents.

4. What Is the Cost of Service?

Air conditioning repair can be pretty expensive for a Bellville homeowner. Thus, it’s better to research what the service charges are. Ask around to estimate an average market price. Then, approach the service companies.

If they quote a higher or lower price than the average, start looking for an alternative.

Ensure the company you choose includes all repair costs in the initial quote. It’s wise to let the contractor pay your house visit before giving a quote.

Some companies can sneak in a few other extra charges when it’s time to pay up. You can have the expected duration and pay in writing to avoid such sneak-ups.

5. Can You Provide References and Reviews?

A trustworthy company is always ready to provide a list of its previous clients. Enquire with three to five clients about the services of the air conditioning repair firm. This may look like a lot of work, but it will be worth it in the end.

Clients are likely to give you an honest opinion about the contractors’ cost, conduct, and service.

Besides, you can also look up online sources. A great google rating is an indicator of impeccable service.

6. How Regular Should the Service be?

It would help if you looked at the company’s maintenance plan you are about to hire, especially when you have several air conditioners around the house. If they lack a maintenance plan, it indicates they are not ready for the job.

For an experienced air conditioning service company, diagnosing and offering system solutions is easy.

7. What Are the Services Offered?

Reliable air conditioning repair firms in Bellville, Ohio, offer a range of repair services. HVAC issues can arise due to various reasons. It’s best to ensure the company you choose can cover the main services you are looking for.

It’s an added advantage if the company can also install HVAC units. You won’t have to look for another company if your unit is beyond repair.

It’s also wise to hire a company that offers regular AC maintenance. Preventative measures are the best way to minimize damage to your HVAC units.

At Cosby, our skilled technicians can diagnose the issue and recommend ideal solutions based on your needs.

8. What Is the Location of the Company?

The geographical positioning of the service company matters a lot in giving good service. Your HVAC units could start acting up at any time. Thus, you will need a company that can be at your property within the shortest time possible.

9. Do You Offer a Warranty?

Buying products is easier than outsourcing service companies. With tangible products, you see the quality of the product before sale. However, with a service company, you have to trust that they will do a good job.

Homeowners deserve some guarantee that the company will show up if the issue persists. A company that offers you a warranty has your best interests in mind.

For AC Service in Mt. Vernon, OH Contact Cosby Heating and Cooling

You can’t rush the process of choosing an air conditioning service. Thus, start looking before your HVAC units start acting up.

To pick the best service company, choose a firm with a high level of experience within your locality.

As an intelligent Bellville homeowner, ensure that the contractors have insurance policies and the right licenses. Otherwise, you might have to deal with incompetent contractors. Or worse, get in trouble with the law.

Cosby Heating and Cooling have been in operation for the longest time. We have skilled technicians who have the right training to handle any air conditioning repairs and installation. You won’t regret working with our top-notch technicians as we meet all the necessary state requirements.

Our services are available in Bellville, Gambier, Howard, Mt Vernon, Utica, Fredericktown, and other areas around Ohio. Feel free to call us anytime and make for all your heating and cooling needs.

home air conditioner repair

6 Signs You Need a Home Air Conditioner Repair in Gambier, OH

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

You wake up in a pool of sweat. Your head is pounding. Unfortunately, your air conditioner stopped working in the middle of the night. 

This wouldn’t have happened had you known the signs that an air conditioner requires repair. Well, it’s never too late to learn. So, without further ado, here are 8 signs that you need home air conditioner repair in Gambier, OH.

1. Your Air Conditioner Short Cycles

One of the most common signs that you need AC repair is that your air conditioner has short cycles. This is when the AC turns on for a few seconds, produces cold air, turns off for a few seconds, and then repeats that process over and over again. 

A short cycling AC might produce adequate temperatures. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not a problem.

See, short cycling puts tremendous undue strain on an AC. As such, it causes an AC to deteriorate before its time. Not to mention, it forces the AC to use more energy than it would otherwise. 

Therefore, if you notice short cycling, you need to nip it in the bud. Call up your local AC repair technician. They’ll determine what’s causing the issue and then take all required actions to fix it. 

2. Your Air Conditioner Is Leaking

Another sign that you need AC repair is that your AC is leaking. If your AC is leaking water, its evaporator coils are probably dirty. There’s also a risk of its condensate line being clogged. 

If your AC is leaking refrigerant, it’s likely suffered a puncture. This most typically occurs on the AC’s refrigerant line, the insulated wire that connects the condenser unit to the home. 

The latter problem is much more serious and should be tended to immediately. If your AC runs out of refrigerant, it won’t produce cold air. It’s as simple as that. 

Regardless, you should call up an air conditioner repair technician. They’ll assess the problem and correct it in a professional and timely manner. 

3. Your Air Conditioner Is Making Unusual Noises

An almost sure sign that your AC needs repair is that it’s making unusual noises. There are a few different home air conditioner noises to look out for. 

The first one is a squealing or squeaking noise. This noise comes about due to a worn or broken motor belt. This belt will need to be replaced to keep the AC running. 

The second noise is a banging noise. This typically comes from the condenser and is generally indicative of something being stuck inside of the condenser. This “something” will need to be removed, and then repairs might need to be made to the condenser’s impeller. 

You should also listen out for buzzing noises. These generally indicate a loose component. Note, however, that they can indicate electrical issues as well. 

In any case, the second you notice something unusual, call up an AC repair tech. The quicker you tend to this problem, the better off you’ll be. 

4. There Are Varying Temperatures Throughout Your Home

Another indication that you need AC repair is that there are varying temperatures throughout your home. For instance, your living room might be 70 degrees while your bedroom might be 74 degrees. 

Why might this happen? It’s generally due to dirty ductwork. If your ducts are dirty, the air isn’t going to be able to pass through them freely. Therefore, it won’t make it to every room equally and will cause variations in temperature. 

The fix for this is straightforward and simple: clean out your ducts. You can certainly attempt to do this on your own. That said, it’s best facilitated by a professional AC repair technician. 

5. There Are Bad Smells Coming from Your AC

You should also be aware of bad smells coming from your AC. Generally speaking, ACs shouldn’t emit any smells at all. If yours is, there’s almost certainly something awry. 

Musty smells are generally indicative of dirty ducts. Mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander all carry the smell of must. Therefore, when air pushes through said ducts, it takes the smell of these substances with it and pushes it out into the house. 

Maybe you smell something like automobile exhaust? If so, you’re probably dealing with a refrigerant leak. This will render your AC inoperable within a few days and needs to be tended to immediately. 

Perhaps there’s a burnt metal smell coming from your AC? In that case, an electrical issue is likely the culprit. You might have to replace your AC’s motor or maybe just fix some of its electrical wiring. 

6. Your Home Feels Humid

An air conditioner isn’t just supposed to eliminate heat. It’s supposed to eliminate humidity as well. Therefore, if your home still feels humid despite the fact that your AC is on, you need to fix your AC. 

There could be several factors causing this problem. Your AC’s evaporator coils could be dirty. It could be leaking refrigerant. There’s even a chance that you don’t have your thermostat set to AC. 

Regardless, your local HVAC advisor will inspect the issue and get to the bottom of it, ensuring that your AC is doing everything it’s intended to do. 

Do You Need Home Air Conditioner Repair in Gambier, OH?

Is your air conditioner displaying any of the signs discussed above? Do you need a home air conditioner repair in Gambier, OH? If so, we here at Cosby Heating & Cooling have you covered. 

We provide the best AC repair in Gambier, OH, and will have your AC fixed in no time. Offering only the best air conditioning services in Gambier, OH, we’ll ensure that your system is working as intended. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment! 

Effective Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs This Summer in Bellville, Ohio

Effective Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs This Summer in Bellville, Ohio

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

Summers in Ohio are hot and humid, with temperatures rising well into the 90s. These high temperatures inspire many people to run their air conditioners constantly, causing their energy bills to rise.

If you want to save on air conditioning costs, then you need to know how to cool down your home in other ways. Here are just a few things you can do to keep your home cool and your energy bill down.

1. Turn Your Lights Off

Turning the lights off in your home is one of the easiest things you can do to reduce heat and keep your electric bill low. Leaving lights on in unoccupied rooms is a waste of electricity and will hike up your energy costs. It will also emit unnecessary heat that will in turn warm up your home.

You may also want to consider switching to energy-efficient lightbulbs. This will ensure that you are saving energy even when your lights are on.

2. Bump the Temperature Up

Surprisingly, turning the thermostat up is one of the most cost-effective ways to cool your home. Play around to find the highest possible temperature you can keep your thermostat at while still remaining comfortable.

You can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat back seven to ten degrees from its normal setting. So, a few degrees can make all of the difference while still allowing you to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

3. Turn Off Unused Appliances

Appliances emit more heat and take up more energy than you may think. Unplug large appliances like your TV, computer, and lamps when you are not using them. If you are unable to unplug them, then at least make it a point to turn them off.

Even phone and tablet chargers can put off unwanted heat. Consider charging your devices at night or in the morning, when the temperatures are at their coolest.

4. Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance

When searching how to save money on air conditioning costs, many people overlook just how helpful routine HVAC maintenance can be. Scheduling an HVAC checkup at least once a year can help you to ensure that your system is running smoothly.

If you need a reliable and professional HVAC service in Bellville, then feel free to check out our services for more information.

5. Keep Curtains Shut

One way to keep your home cool is to keep the sunlight out. Keep your curtains closed to prevent direct sunlight from heating up your home. Make it a point to make your home as dark as possible when you aren’t home, as you don’t need the sunlight then anyway.

If you prefer to let the sunlight into your home, then you may want to consider tinting your windows or installing a solar film. This will allow you to keep the cool air in while blocking the harsh ultraviolet rays that heat up your home.

6. Run Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans take up far less energy than your air conditioning system. Fans can help to circulate the air in your home, and you can leave them running in place of your air conditioner. Even small fans that plug into the wall are a smarter choice than running your air conditioner all of the time.

Make sure to run your fans counterclockwise to push the air down and create a cool breeze throughout your home.

7. Open Windows at Night

One great way to cut down on those rising summer cooling costs is to open your windows when the temperatures are lower. Leave your windows open at night and in the morning to let some of the cooler air in. This will prevent you from needing to run your air conditioner all night long.

It is also important to make sure your windows are closing properly to create a good seal between your home and the outside air. Also, you should ensure that there are no cracks or spaces in or between your windows that could let hot air into your home.

8. Cook Outside

Using the oven can create a lot of unwanted heat in the home. If the weather permits, then you may want to consider cooking food outside using a grill.

If you can’t cook outside, then make it a point to avoid using the oven. Try to stock up on meals that can be eaten straight out of the refrigerator or don’t require the use of the oven.

9. Switch to Cotton Sheets and Clothing

Cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics, which is essential to have to beat the hot summer heat. Clothing made of cotton is a great way to keep yourself cool even when your house is warm.

In addition to clothing, you may also want to consider cotton for your bedding. This can keep you cool during the night and prevent you from feeling the need to turn up the air conditioner.

Start Saving On Your Air Conditioning Costs Today

Saving on your air conditioning costs begins with just a few small changes to your daily routine. Remembering to do things as simple as turning off lights or closing the blinds can make all of the difference when it comes to your electric bills.

If you are experiencing any heating or cooling issues, or just need some expert advice, then feel free to contact us. We are always here to help you with all of your heating and cooling needs in the Bellville area.

ac not cooling

Is Your AC Not Cooling Your House? 7 Common HVAC Issues in Mt. Vernon, OH

By Cosby HVAC Blogs

Did you know the industry in America for heating and air conditioning contractors has a value of over $120 billion each year?

More than 118,000 businesses around the country provide people with quality air conditioning. Clearly, American homeowners value the ability to control the temperature of their homes.

It is hard to overstate how much value a great AC system can provide. However, even modern systems sometimes break down. Is your AC not cooling your house down the way it used to?

In most cases, this results from one of a few common AC unit issues. Read on to learn about the most likely causes of the AC problems you are experiencing.

1. Your HVAC Issues May Stem From Dirty Coils

Coil problems can explain why your AC is running but not cooling.

Many people think of AC systems as devices that produce cold air. While this is true, it is also correct to think of them as devices that suck up warm air and direct it outside your home.

To do this, they have coils in your home that absorb heat. They then transfer the heat in those coils to others outside your home.

However, these coils need to be clean to function correctly. Otherwise, your indoor coils may soak up heat and then be unable to direct it outdoors. Eventually, that heat will return to your home, preventing your AC system from cooling your house.

On the other hand, your indoor coils might be dirty, preventing them from absorbing any heat in the first place. Not only will this prevent your AC system from cooling your home, but it will also cause it to run non-stop.

Your energy bills will start to spike as your home heats up. On top of that, if your AC system never gets a break, it is more likely to develop other problems.

What starts as a single problem with your AC system can compound into multiple issues. When one part of the system isn’t working, it places stress on all of the other parts. That is why it is crucial to fix problems as soon as possible.

2. A Leak May Be Increasing Your Energy Bill

The refrigerant in your AC system allows the coils to move heat from inside your house to outside. If the refrigerant leaks, the coils will no longer function properly, no matter how clean they are.

On top of that, leaking refrigerants can damage other components of your AC system.

If this problem is minor, your AC system may be able to keep cooling your house somewhat. However, it will consume more energy to do so. That will lead to higher energy bills.

As the problem gets worse, and it probably will get worse, your AC system will continue to consume extra energy, but it will no longer be able to cool your home.

3. Your Condenser Unit May Be Blocked

Your AC system comes with a condenser placed outside. As long as this system has plenty of access to air, it will work just fine.

However, these units can get blocked by plants and other debris. If they are blocked, they will no longer be able to release the heat from inside your home outside.

4. Your Air Filter May Be Clogged

Your AC system processes vast quantities of air. It actually doubles as a sort of air filtration system. That is because it removes the contaminants from the air that it processes.

However, those contaminants don’t just disappear. Instead, they end up in the air filter of your AC system.

Once this air filter is full of contaminants, your AC system will have less and less access to air. That can keep it from functioning efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and less cooling.

5. You May Need Ohio HVAC Repair for Your Compressor

Your AC system will stop working if the compressor is broken. This is because the compressor ensures that your AC system has the correct pressure.

If your compressor is broken, you need to call expert repair services to fix it.

6. Your System May Be Too Old

Some systems simply wear out over time. If you have had your system for many years, then practically every component of your AC might have minor problems of one kind or another that need repair or replacement.

However, at that point, it doesn’t make sense to replace single components. Instead, it is worth consulting an installation company about buying a new AC.

7. The Problem Might Be Your Thermostat

If your AC is not cooling the house, it might be a problem with the thermostat rather than the unit itself. That can be good news since the thermostat is often an easy fix.

Your thermostat may even be working fine. It just might be that you have the wrong settings. Ensure that the fan is set to “on” and the system to “cool.”

Is Your AC Not Cooling Your Home?

Is your AC not cooling your house down? Knowing more about what is going on with your system can help you resolve the problem with as little fuss and expense as possible.

Since almost every homeowner in the USA depends on an AC system, at least over the summer months, it makes sense to learn how to care for them.

To learn more about AC problems or to speak with experts who can help you remedy them, get in touch with us here any time!