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3 Benefits of Having Maintenance on Your Air Conditioner

Sat, 16 Apr 2022 09:15:08 GMT

With summer just around the corner, you’ll count on your HVAC system to make your life more comfortable. Your air conditioner is one appliance you shouldn't neglect in cooler weather if you want it to be ready to work when it's hot. Your cooling system's filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to work efficiently and last for years. There are other important reasons, some listed here, to keep your air conditioner well maintained.

Why You Should Have Your AC Unit Maintained Regularly

1. Saves You Money

Regularly servicing your air conditioning unit can prevent you from calling a contractor to make more substantial and costly repairs. Scheduled maintenance is less expensive than emergency service, and replacement of worn-out parts is more expensive than caring for them along the way or replacing the entire unit when it breaks down.

2. Improves the Air Quality

You have little control over the air you breathe outside of your home. Inside is a different story. Routine maintenance of your air conditioner, including cleaning filters, can reduce common indoor allergens from ordinary household dust from pet dander, dust mites, cigarette smoke, pollen, and mold. In general, preventive maintenance helps ensure that the cold air pumping through your vents is as clean and well-filtered as possible.

3. Extend the Life of The Unit

Buying a new air conditioner is a costly proposition. Your goal should be to extend the system's life as long as possible. An air conditioner should last between 12 and 20 years. Where your unit falls on the lifeline will depend on how well you take care of it over the years. A system ignored will struggle to work against dust and grime buildup, putting greater wear and tear on the system.

For reliable air conditioning repairs and installations, Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC has a team of professional heating and air conditioning contractors that are ready to help. Located in Nicholasville, KY, they offer a wide range of services for your cooling needs to keep your family comfortable in the heat of the summer. They also offer heating services, like furnace repairs and installations, to keep you warm during the cold winter months. Call (859) 252-4945 or visit their website with any questions you have.

A Guide to Air Scrubbers

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:09:19 GMT

Spring is here and that means it's allergy season once again in Kentucky. Maintaining good indoor air quality is more important than ever, and air scrubbers can have a major impact on the health and comfort of your home. In addition to getting your air conditioning checked before summer arrives, you should also consider asking an HVAC technician about air scrubber installations.

How Do Air Scrubbers Work?

Along with pollen from flowers and trees, many other contaminants can make their way into your home's ductwork. These contaminants are dispersed around your home when using HVAC equipment, which reduces air quality and worsens allergies. Air scrubbers attach directly to ductwork to eliminate allergens and other contaminants before they get inside your home.

Scrubbers use a series of filters to cleanse the air. As air enters the device, large particulates are captured by the pre-filter. Many scrubbers also contain carbon filters, which catch gas and vapor molecules responsible for causing bad odors in the home. The primary filter is next, which can remove miniscule particulates. Scrubbers also utilize a blower, which is what brings air into the device for cleansing.

What Benefits Do They Offer Homeowners?

When you or a loved one suffers from allergies, an air scrubber can have a major impact on symptoms. This is especially true during summer, when you're likely to be using air conditioning daily. Scrubbers also trap germs and bacteria, which reduce the risk of illness from colds and flu. If you have pets, scrubbers help control odors for a fresh, clean-smelling home.

These devices can even benefit your HVAC system. Proper air flow is crucial for optimum efficiency, and scrubbers ensure your system is not affected by dirt and debris. In addition to avoiding expensive repairs, enhanced efficiency also extends the life of your unit.

The team at Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC is happy to discuss air scrubbers with customers in Lexington, KY and surrounding counties. These technicians also provide service for air conditioning, including tune-ups to get you ready for warm weather. Since 1976, these HVAC pros have been renowned for their amazing customer service and quality work. They'll treat your home with respect and ensure you're fully satisfied with the experience. Call (859) 252-4945 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about their AC service.

3 Common Reasons Your Furnace Won’t Turn On

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:59:10 GMT

With the cold air outside, a working furnace keeps your home warm and cozy. However, if it doesn’t turn on, the cold air can seep in fast. You might require professional furnace repairs or it might be an easy fix. Here are three common reasons your furnace won’t turn on.

Why Won’t the Furnace Turn On?

1. Tripped Circuit Breaker

If a circuit breaker is tripped, your furnace won’t be receiving any electricity to power on. A circuit breaker can trip for many reasons, including the power going out briefly or an overloaded circuit. You can check the breaker box in your home and flip the switch for the furnace.

Turn the thermostat up by about five degrees to see if the furnace turns on again. If the breaker continues to trip frequently, there may be a loose wire or an electrical failure. However, if the breaker isn't tripped, there is probably another issue with the furnace.

2. Dirty Air Filters

The air filters in the furnace clean the air of any debris before it flows into your home. Eventually, the component gets clogged and dirty and needs to be replaced. Clogged air filters can prevent airflow, which will cause the furnace to turn off. Check the air filters and replace them at least once a month to extend the unit’s life span.

3. Faulty Ignition Switch

When the furnace turns on, the ignitor either creates a spark or heats up to create warm air in your home. If your furnace clicks on but doesn’t fire up with heat, it’s probably due to the ignitor switch. Over time, it accumulates dust and dirt, preventing the unit from running. Give us a call and have a licensed technician do a maintenance on your unit to make sure it will work when you need it.

If your furnace won’t turn on and you require professional help, trust the experts at Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY. Their team works to make the furnace repair or installation process simple and stress-free for homeowners. Call (859) 252-4945 to make an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their services.

4 Key Tips to Reduce Heating Costs

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 08:53:20 GMT

You want your home to be warm for your family in winter, no matter how cold the weather gets. The easiest way to accomplish that is to raise the temperature on the thermostat, but this method will cause your utility bills to rise. In that case, you should look for ways to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home without overspending on heating installation costs.

How Can You Reduce Heat Costs in Winter?

1. Run the Ceiling Fan Clockwise

Since hot air rises and lingers around the ceiling, using a fan will push the warm air closer to the ground. This is especially useful if you have tall or vaulted ceilings in your home that can easily trap warm air. When using your fan, keep it on the lowest setting to push the warm air down without creating an unpleasant breeze.

2. Run the thermostat at a constant temperature

If you keep your thermostat at a constant temperature, it will be more cost-effective in the long run. Turning your heat way down when you leave for the day can cost you much more when you get home and want it to be warm. It can take long amounts of running time for your heat to reach the new desired temperature, causing your bills to be a lot higher. So it is better to just keep your thermostat at a comfortable level and adjust between just a couple of degrees at a time.

3. Open Curtains

Even in winter, opening the curtains will let the sunlight in to warm the air in your house, which can raise the temperature a considerable amount. Once your house is sufficiently warm, close the curtains to trap the heat inside and block drafts from creeping in through the windows.

4. Change Your Filters

If the filter is clogged with dust, your furnace will work harder to heat your home and keep your utility bills high in the winter. In the worst-case scenario, your furnace will malfunction due to overwork, and you’ll need a whole new heating installation. Check the filters at least once a month and replace them when necessary.

If you’re currently looking for a new heating unit for your home, consult with Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC . Since 1976, the Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating team has created comfortable homes for the residents of Lexington, KY. To learn more about their superior HVAC services, reach out to them at (859) 252-4945 or visit their website to learn more about their heating installation options.

4 Reasons You Should Get Furnace Maintenance

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:37:10 GMT

During winter, furnace repair and maintenance are important since the unit keeps your home warm on the coldest days of the year and prevents frozen pipes. Keeping your furnace in good condition with annual tuneups and maintenance not only prevents you from being left in the cold, but it also has some other benefits.

Why Should Your Furnace Get a Yearly Tuneup?

1. Prolonged Life Span

Your furnace works hard on the chilliest days, and if regular maintenance isn’t scheduled, the appliance can get dirty from dust and other debris. When the parts aren’t in good condition, the unit has to work harder and put more wear on the components.

Getting a furnace tuneup every year means the parts will be cleaned and properly lubricated, extending their life and the overall lifetime of your furnace. Your technician will also spot and address issues with malfunctioning parts early on to prevent bigger maintenance issues in the future.

2. Reduced Carbon Monoxide Leaks

One of the most dangerous malfunctions in furnaces is a cracked heat exchanger, which can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. Having a professional examine and maintain your furnace annually gives them an opportunity to spot issues with the heat exchanger and address them as early as possible.

3. Saved Money

Heating is already one of the biggest monthly bills in most households, and if your furnace is working hard to do its job, it’s also using more energy. Annual furnace repair and checkups mean parts will be clean and in good condition, making your furnace more energy-efficient and saving you money on your monthly bill.

4. Cleaner Air

Annual furnace repair and preventative maintenance tend to include services that will make the air cleaner in your home. Changing the filter and cleaning up parts reduces the amount of dust and impurities in the air, reducing issues with allergens and toxins being breathed in.

For reliable furnace repairs and heating installations, Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC's team of professional heating and air conditioning contractors is ready to help. Located in Nicholasville, KY, they offer a wide range of services for your heating needs to keep your family warm in the winter. They also offer air conditioning services, like AC repairs and installations, to keep you cool during the summer months. Call (859) 252-4945 or visit their website with any questions you have.

3 Easy Furnace Safety Tips

Sat, 27 Nov 2021 08:29:13 GMT

As the cold settles in and winter approaches, the more you'll be using your furnace. However, like any appliance, any usage must be done with safety in mind. If you're inconsistent with certain precautions, it could lead to premature furnace repairs . To avoid this and keep it running smoothly during the colder months, make sure to do the following.

What Are the Basic Furnace Safety Maintenance Tasks?

1. Clear the Dust

It's a fire hazard when there's too much dust on the vents, registers, and the furnace itself. To prevent lint or any other debris from catching fire, wipe down or vacuum the surface whenever the dust starts to accumulate. Using the nozzle and brush attachments on the vacuum will make clearing it away much faster.

2. Change the Air Filter

In addition to dust, the air filter captures lint, pollen, pet dander, and any other particles floating in the air. Once it fills up, it can't capture any extra allergens and will compromise the air quality. Furthermore, it forces the furnace to work even harder to push any air out through it.

Over time, this strains the system, and you'll likely need furnace repairs. Changing it depends on the household; some benefit from a new one every month, while others only need a new one every season.

3. Schedule Annual Inspections & Tuneups

Before winter starts, you should have a technician inspect your furnace annually to ensure everything is working as it should. They'll catch any potential problems while they're still in their infancy. Like it is with all appliances, minor furnace repairs are much more manageable than significant ones. If necessary, they'll also lubricate any gears, adjust the tension on various belts, and clean what you cannot or should not try on your own, like the burner.

If you've been having furnace issues despite staying on top of these tasks, contact Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating in Nicholasville, KY. For 45 years, they've provided reliable HVAC services for those throughout the Lexington area. Their experienced technicians can diagnose and perform the necessary furnace repairs you need. If a replacement is required, they can do that too. For more information on their heating services, visit their website or call (859) 252-4945 .

What Kind of Heat Pumps Can You Install in Your Home?

Sat, 06 Nov 2021 08:22:00 GMT

While air conditioners and furnaces effectively cool and heat a home, they are not the sole means of regulating indoor temperatures. Alternatives, such as heat pumps , use electricity to transport heat to warm or cool spaces, albeit to a lower extent. That is why, regardless of their type, they are generally more energy efficient.

3 Different Kinds of Heat Pumps Available

1. Air-Source

These heat pumps extract heat from the air and move it inside or outside your house, depending on whether you want it warmer or colder. Apart from dramatically lowering your energy consumption, they dehumidify more effectively than air conditioners, providing better comfort.

There are two kinds of air-source or air-to-air heat pumps: ducted and ductless. With ducted air-source heat pumps, a network of ducts distributes conditioned air throughout your home. Ductless systems are installed directly in areas that require heating or cooling.

2. Ground-Source

Sometimes called geothermal heat pumps, they draw out heat energy from the ground using an array of underground pipes buried vertically through boreholes or horizontally in trenches, either coiled or straight.

When comparing ground-source heat pumps to air-source ones, the former consumes less energy because the ground retains more heat and keeps its temperature more stable than the air. They're more durable and quieter than air-to-air systems, but they're also more expensive to install.

3. Water-Source

Instead of the soil, this type extracts heat from a nearby water source, like a pond, river, or sea. Bodies of water tend to have a constant temperature like the ground, making the system more energy-efficient than air-source types.

But for heat pumps to work, the water should not be stagnant—a potential problem during a cold spell. Water-source heat pumps draw water and cycle it through the pipes buried in the water reservoir to gather heat and transfer it inside your home, and the process is reversed during the cooling season.

If you're interested in having a heat pump system in your home, turn to Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC , a trusted furnace and air conditioning contractor in Nicholasville, KY. Serving residents in and around Lexington, they also offer air conditioner and furnace installations. Call (859) 252-4945 for an estimate or reach out online for more information.

How Humidity Affects Your Air Conditioning Unit

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 08:16:33 GMT

Homeowners rely on their air conditioning systems to control their houses’ temperatures, but many forget about the humidity levels. If the humidity is too high, it can overwhelm your system. Here’s what every homeowner should know about excess humidity and what you can do about it.

What Happens When Humid Air Meets an Air Conditioning Unit?

Your air conditioning equipment cools the air in your home by passing it over a cold evaporator coil, so water from that air naturally condenses onto this surface. The air that passes through your unit is dryer, and the water from the evaporator coil falls down into your air conditioner’s drip pan and runs out of the home through the drain line. This constant moisture can cause mildew, so the drip pan and drain line need to be cleaned at least once a year.

When the humidity is over 60%, the air conditioning still removes some water; however, there’s a limit to what one evaporator coil can do. Damp air feels warmer than dry air, so you’re likely to set the thermostat lower and make your air conditioning system work harder to maintain your home at a comfortable temperature. This puts unnecessary strain on the AC, so you’re more likely to need air conditioner repairs due to wear and tear, and it also uses extra electricity.

What Can You Do to Solve the Issue?

If the home’s air feels clammy, and you notice foggy windows or water on the walls, reduce the humidity. Some homeowners opt for a more powerful air conditioner, but this is actually counterproductive; larger AC units cool the air faster, so they shut off more quickly and end up removing less water from the air.

Instead, ask your air conditioning contractor to install a dehumidifier in your home. The device will remove the humidity from the air, so the moisture levels are lower, and the air conditioning unit isn’t under more strain. You can also limit activities, like steamy showers and home cooking, that add to your home’s humidity.

For air conditioning maintenance to cope with the effects of high humidity, choose Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY. Serving Lexington and the surrounding counties for 45 years, they offer quality Amana® air conditioners and will also work with you to schedule routine maintenance for your system. To get started, call (859) 252-4945 or reach out online .

5 Problems Caused by Clogged Air Filters

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:10:00 GMT

The air filter may be a simple, low-tech part of your air conditioning system, but overlooking it for too long can lead to big side effects. The truth is that skipping any preventative maintenance steps, like regular air filter replacements, can lead to extra AC repair bills and shorten HVAC unit life spans. This list explains some other serious issues that can crop up in a cooling system with clogged air filters.

What Happens When an AC Air Filter Gets Clogged?

1. High Energy Bills

All the air that passes through your home’s cooling system is sent through its filters. When they’re clean, air moves through easily. Over time, as dust and dander accumulate, it takes more energy to push the air through. The motor responds by skipping rest cycles and pulling extra power. The dirtier the filter gets, the more likely you are to notice an increase in utility bills.

2. Low Indoor Air Quality

A clogged filter is ineffective at trapping allergens from the incoming air. This means they’re free to move into the vents and will end up distributed across the entire house. Homeowners with clogged filters may notice an increase in allergy-like symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and headaches.

3. Increase in Household Chores

With no room left to store dust, clogged filters allow unwanted debris back into your home’s indoor air. Because the system is actively pushing dust toward them, furniture and floors near air conditioning vents will get dirty quickly. Schedule regular air filter changes to reduce the amount of time spent on housecleaning tasks.

4. Reduced Cooling Power

Experienced AC techs always check the air filter’s status if they receive complaints that a system is running inefficiently. Since clogged filters slow down air movement, they can leave HVAC units unable to produce cold air fast enough to cool a home. If the unit’s motor is constantly running and the vents are still blowing lukewarm air, schedule a filter replacement and maintenance checkup.

5. Total Breakdown

The condenser coils are calibrated to drop air temperature sharply over a short period of time. If reduced flow causes the passing air and moisture to linger too long, the coils can freeze up. Once this happens, air can’t pass through it at all. The system may shut down to prevent damage to the blower fan or compressor. While an HVAC technician will view thawing the coils as a fairly simple AC repair job, your house won’t have cooling until it’s finished.

For help avoiding unnecessary AC repairs, reach out to Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY. This licensed HVAC contractor offers professional and affordable preventative maintenance. Serving homeowners across Lexington and the surrounding counties, their friendly team can perform full inspections and clean-outs, including any needed filter replacements. Call (859) 252-4945 to schedule an appointment or learn more about their AC services online .

A Guide to R-22 Refrigerant Replacements

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 07:54:30 GMT

As of Jan. 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the use of R-22 due to its toxic depletion of the earth’s ozone layer. The refrigerant is commonly used in air conditioning systems in homes and businesses. Here is what you need to know about more reasons behind the ban and replacement options.

What Prompted the Change

The chemicals used in air conditioning refrigerants such as R-22 are mostly hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC). Researchers found that HCFCs deplete the ozone layer and have contributed to climate change. As a result, the EPA instituted a ban on the usage and import of R-22 in the United States. As of Jan. 1, 2020, the refrigerant is now illegal to sell or use here.

How It Affects Current Users

Air conditioning systems that currently use R-22 can continue to use them. However, if a repair or maintenance service is needed, technicians cannot provide R-22. Depending on the system, the existing R-22 refrigerant may be converted to an EPA-approved alternative. Unfortunately, the conversion will likely only provide a few more years of system usage.

The other option is an HVAC system upgrade. For residential and commercial property owners, the encouraging news is that there are plenty of air conditioning options that are affordable to install and maintain. Many of the Energy Star® systems also provide more cost-saving energy efficiencies, which can lower monthly cooling and heating costs.

What Should R-22 System Owners Do

The first step is scheduling an appointment with a licensed air conditioning service company. A technician will determine if your system uses R-22. They will be able to suggest alternatives for retrofitting and replacements. The best ones will offer recommendations designed to provide reliable comfort while protecting the earth’s much-needed ozone layer.

Because R-22 is now illegal to use, systems with the refrigerant may be costly to repair and service. An HVAC upgrade can offset these expenses by providing long-term and safer operations.

Don’t panic if your home or business’s cooling and heating system uses R-22 refrigerant. Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY, has you covered with safe, budget-friendly, and environment-friendly options. Serving Lexington and the surrounding counties since 1976, the licensed and insured HVAC contractor has extensive installation, maintenance, and repair systems. The Amana® AC unit distributor will conduct a free inspection and suggest R-22 alternatives. To get started, call (859) 252-4945 to schedule your complimentary appointment. Visit the website for the full lineup of air conditioning and heating services.

What You Need to Know About Heat Pumps & Furnaces

Thu, 20 May 2021 07:43:31 GMT

During the colder months, having a reliable heating system is a must for comfortable warmth. Heat pumps and furnaces are two options for keeping interior spaces properly insulated. If you’re considering an upgrade to an existing HVAC system, here’s what you need to know about both.

Heat Pumps

Most heat pumps are designed to utilize outside air to provide warmth during the winter and cooling in the summer. The appliance absorbs heats through pressure from a network of refrigerant lines. Once absorbed, the warm air is released throughout the home. During the hotter months, the pressure from the refrigerant lines is reversed so that cold air flows across the appliance's coils to provide refreshing coolness inside the home.

Heat pumps will typically need a compressor, which is usually installed outdoors. The actual pump can be mounted to a wall and doesn’t take up a lot of indoor space. They are powered by electricity, which may offer heating and cooling savings because there’s no reliance on fuel consumption.

Because the pumps are designed to blow both cool and warm air, it may provide as sufficient heat in colder climates compared to furnaces. Since heat pumps provide both heating and cooling channels, their maintenance schedules may also be more frequent.

Furnaces

A furnace distributes heat throughout the home by fuel conversion. The appliance uses burners to transport and burn fuel and heat exchangers, a blower and flue to safely maintain proper gas or oil consumption. Because furnaces don’t absorb outdoor air, they will typically perform better at keeping homes warm in colder climates.

Energy efficiency will typically depend on the home’s setup. For example, without a connection to natural gas, the heating costs may not be as economical compared to heat pumps. Furnaces rely on fuel, which can also affect maintenance costs. With regular, professional maintenance, gas-fired versions can last for 20 years or more, compared to heat pumps at 15 years. Because furnaces are only used during colder weather, their life spans are typically longer.

Since 1976, Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY, has provided both heat pumps and furnaces in homes throughout Lexington and surrounding counties. You can count on expert installations, maintenance and repair services so that your house remains reliably comfortable year-round. If you’re wanting a heating and cooling system upgrade but are unsure, expect no-pressure, customized and affordable recommendations. To learn more about the benefits of heat pumps and furnaces, call (859) 252-4945 or visit the website .

How to Protect Your HVAC Equipment from Power Surges

Sat, 17 Apr 2021 07:38:11 GMT

Your heating and air conditioning system is a significant home investment. It needs protection from all possible damages so that you don’t have to spend money on major repairs or replacements anytime soon. One of the ways your units could get damaged is if a power surge happens. Here’s a rundown on what they are and how to protect your HVAC equipment from them.

What Are Power Surges?

A power surge is when there’s a sudden spike of electricity flowing through the house’s electrical system. This also increases the voltage that power outlets deliver. There are several reasons surges could happen. For instance, power might’ve gotten restored after an outage, there was a problem with the power lines, or lightning struck the grid, which can suddenly boost the power flow.

How Do Surges Damage HVAC Systems?

Under normal circumstances, your home only transfers around 120 volts to appliances, though it can fluctuate as high as 169 volts. As such, your air conditioning equipment is likely designed to only handle that load range. Surges can cause the voltage to go far past that amount.

All that electricity going to your AC units’ electric components, such as the circuit boards and wires, can cause them to overheat and warp over time. A major surge can even cause a 1,000-volt power spike, which is enough to fry electrical parts in one go.

How Can You Protect HVAC Units Against Power Surges?

If you’re currently not using your air conditioning unit, you can unplug it so that no electricity flows through at all. In case of blackouts, you can also do this or switch off the circuit breaker. This cuts off all currents flowing in the house.

You could also install a surge protector for your HVAC system. This device prevents too much power from going to your unit by diverting the extra voltage away to your home’s grounding wire. This wire is connected to the ground underneath your house to reduce the risk of causing electric shocks or fires anywhere else at home.

The technicians at Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC can repair surge damages and help you choose the right surge protector for your air conditioning unit’s needs. The air conditioning contractor has served the Lexington, KY, community’s HVAC needs since 1976. From AC installation to furnace repair projects, you can count on them to provide quality workmanship. To schedule your appointment, you can message their website or call (859) 252-4945 .

How to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality This Spring

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 07:30:38 GMT

With the arrival of spring, many look forward to the beautiful blossoms, warmer weather, and the occasional showers. The season is also notorious for pollen and other particles that can affect your home’s indoor air quality. Here’s what you can do to create a fresher and cleaner environment and get the most from your air conditioning system.

4 Tips for Enhancing Air Quality During Spring

1. Clean the Air Ducts

Over time, dust, pet dander, mold, and pollen can form in air ducts. These passageways are designed to distribute air from an HVAC system throughout the home. When the ducts become clogged, the air quality diminishes.

One of the best ways to improve it is with a professional duct cleaning. Powerful vacuums are used to completely suction away debris while motorized brush equipment cleans dust inside the pipes, on the vents, and in the intakes. The result is fresh and sanitized air filtering throughout the home.

2. Replace the Air Filters

This important component of a heating and air conditioning system catches unwanted airborne particles so the air can pass through and circulate. When the filters are clogged, they can block clean air distribution.

To keep dust, mold, and allergens from invading your home, the filters should be changed seasonally. If there are pets or smokers present, the devices may need more frequent replacements.

3. Schedule Spring Maintenance

Having your home’s heating and air conditioning system thoroughly inspected by an HVAC technician will identify air quality issues. From checking the airflow output to fixing any compressor, fan, or motor blade damage, this spring maintenance visit will help spot small problems before they become expensive ones. If repairs are needed, your home’s system will operate more efficiently, which can save on energy costs.

4. Remove Outside Debris

Another way to improve air quality is clearing away any debris around outdoor HVAC units. Remove leaves, branches, rocks, and dirt so the air being circulated in the home doesn’t make contact with unwanted particles. Trimming back nearby tree limbs and shrubs will also allow the heating and cooling systems to maintain their temperatures.

By following a few proactive steps, your home’s air quality will be clean and pollutant-free. Since 1976, Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC in Nicholasville, KY, has proudly served Lexington and the surrounding counties with expert maintenance, repairs, and installations. The team of licensed and certified HVAC technicians has extensive experience working on a wide range of systems. From transparent pricing and on-time appointments to energy-efficient Amana® AC units, count on them to keep your home comfortable year-round. Schedule your spring maintenance appointment by calling (859) 252-4945 . Visit the website for the complete lineup of services.

4 Tips for Using the HVAC System to Alleviate Allergies

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 07:22:09 GMT

Many people suffer from the effects of allergies, which is reported as the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. Unfortunately, indoor allergens can cause just as much discomfort as those outdoors. As such, it’s important to minimize your exposure at home. This is easier to do with the help of your heating and cooling system. By making certain upgrades to your equipment and practicing proper HVAC maintenance , you can alleviate many of the symptoms you experience. Here are a few tips for using your system to clear the air.

How to Find Allergy Relief Through Your HVAC System

1. Keep It Clean

It’s common for dust and debris to build up around the vents and registers inside a home. Make it a habit to vacuum or wipe these down regularly to remove particulates that can contribute to allergy issues. This will also prevent them from entering your heating and cooling system.

Your outdoor unit should be cleaned frequently, as well. It’s exposed to a variety of elements year-round and will accumulate a lot of allergens that can easily infiltrate your home.

2. Change the Air Filter Often

Air filters are designed to collect dirt, dust, pet dander, mold spores, pollen, and other allergens and keep them from recirculating through your indoor air. However, over time, they can become clogged, making them less effective. This is why it’s vital to have your filters replaced every one to three months. Using higher quality filters will also trap more airborne particles.

3. Install a Dehumidifier

When there’s moisture in the air, your home will become more vulnerable to mold growth. Mold is toxic and a leading trigger for allergy symptoms.

The best solution is to eliminate excess moisture from your indoor air, which can be done with a dehumidifier. You can have one installed as part of your heating and cooling system to control humidity levels and prevent mold from developing.

4. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Bi-annual tuneups go a long way towards keeping your system running at peak efficiency and improving your indoor air quality. Professional HVAC maintenance services include a thorough cleaning of your equipment and full inspection to make sure all the components are in good condition. It’s typically recommended that you schedule appointments in spring and fall, right before your equipment sees heavy usage.

For help optimizing your heating and cooling system to provide allergy relief, turn to the professionals at Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC . They offer high-quality products and HVAC maintenance solutions that work together to promote a healthier and more comfortable living environment. Serving homeowners throughout the Greater Lexington, KY area since 1976, this company is dedicated to delivering reliable and affordable workmanship. Call (859) 252-4945 to discuss your needs, or visit them online for more information on their services.

How to Choose Heating & Air Conditioning for Finished Basements

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 06:50:22 GMT

When it comes to renovating your home, a finished basement is one of the best investments. Whether it's designated as an office, game room, or home theater, it's something that will ultimately add to the property value. However, a finished basement goes beyond drywall, proper flooring, and paint. It also means having an appropriate heating and air conditioning unit; it's essential for comfort. If you're wondering what your options are and how to decide among them, here's what you need to know.

Additions

The simplest way to bring a heating or air conditioning unit to the room is through a ductless mini-split system. They do not need to be connected to any ducting to work; they can be set up independent of whatever system you have throughout the house. They also have a small footprint and quick installation times, so you won't have to wait long to have a fully finished space.

Expansion

For optimal efficiency, the capacity and output of an HVAC unit should be closely connected to the size of the property. If they're too high, it may shut off too quickly and create humidity problems.

If it's too small, some rooms won't get as much heat or cool air. However, depending on the size of your home, the heating and air conditioning system may be able to handle the extra square footage of living space. If it can, the issue will be about expanding the ducting into the basement.

Upgrade

Finally, the last option is to upgrade your heating and air conditioning system entirely. If you have quite a large basement, you'll likely need to do this, along with expanding the ducting. Generally speaking, this is often the most time-consuming and expensive option. However, depending on the exact layout of your home, this may be the best choice.

If you're planning a basement remodel and need help deciding the right heating and air conditioning system, get in touch with Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating LLC . For nearly 45 years, this Nicholasville, KY, business has served Lexington and the surrounding counties. After the installation, they also offer preventative HVAC maintenance services and repairs. You can learn all about their HVAC services on their website ; if you have any questions, don't hesitate to call them at (859) 252-4945 .