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The Truth About Whole-Home Humidifiers: Are They Worth It?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on The Truth About Whole-Home Humidifiers: Are They Worth It?

As winter sets in across White House, TN, homeowners deal with more than just the cold – they’re battling dry indoor air. When your heating system runs constantly, it pulls moisture from the air, leading to dry skin, irritated sinuses, static electricity, and even damage to wood furniture and flooring.

A whole-home humidifier solves these problems by adding moisture directly into your home’s air, improving comfort, health, and even heating efficiency. But how does it work, and is it worth the investment?

Here’s everything you need to know.

How Whole-Home Humidifiers Work

During Tennessee’s winter months, indoor humidity levels can drop well below the recommended range of 30-50%, creating an uncomfortable and unhealthy environment. Unlike small portable humidifiers, which only affect one room at a time, whole-home humidifiers integrate with your existing HVAC system to balance moisture levels throughout your entire house.

These systems work by adding water vapor into the heated air as it moves through your ductwork. A built-in humidistat – similar to a thermostat – automatically adjusts moisture levels based on your settings, ensuring consistent comfort without the hassle of manually adjusting multiple units.

What Maintenance Does a Whole-Home Humidifier Require?

Taking care of a whole-home humidifier is simple and similar to other HVAC maintenance. To keep it running, you’ll need to:

  • Replace the humidifier pad or filter regularly (usually once per season).
  • Clean the water reservoir to prevent mineral buildup.
  • Schedule annual servicing to ensure the system functions properly.

With minimal upkeep, these systems can provide years of improved comfort and air quality.

Why White House Homeowners Need a Whole-Home Humidifier

Dry air doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable – it can affect your health, energy bills, and even your home’s structure. Here’s why a whole-home humidifier is worth considering:

1. Improved Comfort & Better Health

When humidity levels are balanced, the air feels warmer and easier to breathe, reducing dry skin, allergies and sinus irritation. Proper humidity also helps prevent sore throats and respiratory issues, especially in winter when illnesses are more common.

2. Prevents Dry Air Damage

Low humidity dries out wood floors, furniture, and even walls, causing cracks, warping, and peeling paint. A whole-home humidifier protects your home’s structure and furnishings by maintaining the right moisture levels.

3. Lower Heating Bills

Moist air feels warmer than dry air, meaning you can set your thermostat lower without feeling cold. This reduces energy use and heating costs throughout winter.

4. Controls Humidity Without Causing Mold

While too much humidity can lead to mold growth, a whole-home humidifier automatically regulates moisture levels, preventing excess humidity that could create problems.

5. Reduces Static Electricity

Static shocks are annoying and become more common in winter when the air is dry. Proper humidity levels naturally reduce static buildup, making your home more comfortable and protecting electronics from static damage.

Is a Whole-Home Humidifier Right for You?

If you experience dry skin, frequent colds, increased static electricity, or high heating bills, a whole-home humidifier could be a game-changer. Unlike portable units, they provide consistent moisture throughout your entire home, require less maintenance, and help protect both your health and home.

At Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners achieve better indoor air quality through specialized solutions. Call (270) 776-2691 today to schedule a consultation and improve your home’s comfort!

5 New Year’s Resolutions for a More Comfortable Home in 2025

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As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to rethink how you care for your heating and cooling systems. Small changes to your HVAC habits can lead to big improvements in comfort, energy savings, and indoor air quality.

At Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we believe that starting the year with smart HVAC resolutions can set your home up for success. Here are five impactful resolutions to make your home more comfortable in 2025 (and beyond).

1. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat does more than adjust temperatures – it learns your schedule and preferences to keep your home comfortable while saving energy. These modern devices allow you to program temperature changes based on when you’re home, away or sleeping.

For example, lowering the temperature by just 8 degrees while you’re at work can significantly reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort. Smart thermostats can save you up to 10% annually on energy costs, and you’ll love the convenience of controlling settings directly from your smartphone.

2. Prioritize Regular Maintenance

Consistent maintenance is the foundation of a reliable HVAC system. By keeping your heating and cooling systems in top shape, you’ll prevent costly repairs and ensure efficient operation year-round.

Here’s a simple maintenance schedule to follow:

  • Replace air filters every 1-3 months to maintain airflow.
  • Clear debris from outdoor units each season.
  • Inspect and clean vents and registers quarterly.
  • Check thermostat batteries and ductwork for leaks twice a year.

Partnering with Chilly Ben’s for professional tune-ups ensures your system stays ready for the demands of every season.

3. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system is key to maintaining healthy indoor air. This year, consider upgrades that enhance the air you and your family breathe.

Some great options include:

  • Installing MERV 8-13 filters to trap allergens and dust.
  • Adding a whole-home air purifier to remove microscopic particles.
  • Using UV light treatments to eliminate bacteria and mold in your system.
  • Maintaining proper humidity levels for a balanced environment.
  • Scheduling regular duct cleaning services to remove buildup.

4. Make Preventative Care a Priority

Preventative care is one of the best ways to extend the life of your HVAC equipment. Regular servicing helps catch small issues early, keeping your system running and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Key components of a preventative care plan include:

  • Scheduling seasonal tune-ups to check for wear and tear.
  • Replacing filters on time to maintain airflow.
  • Cleaning condenser coils to improve performance.
  • Sealing air leaks to reduce energy waste.

With these steps, you’ll enjoy consistent temperatures, lower energy bills, and fewer emergency repairs.

5. Focus on Energy-Saving Habits

This year, small adjustments to your HVAc habits can lead to noticeable savings. Start by programming your thermostat for energy setbacks during off-peak hours and ensuring your home is well-insulated to retain conditioned air.

Additional steps to consider include:

  • Installing zone controls for personalized comfort.
  • Keeping curtains and blinds closed during extreme weather to reduce heat loss or gain.
  • Using ceiling fans to circulate warm air during winter and cool air during summer.

Partner With Chilly Ben’s for Your HVAC Success

At Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help Bowling green put their home comfort goals into action with expert guidance and reliable services.

From seasonal checkups to system upgrades, our experienced technicians ensure your heating and cooling systems perform their best all year long. Contact us at (270) 776-3691 today!

How to Troubleshoot Common Heating Problems in Winter

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on How to Troubleshoot Common Heating Problems in Winter

The last thing you want on a cold night is for your heater to stop working. Unfortunately, heating systems can develop problems at any time, leaving your home uncomfortably chilly.

Understanding the most common heater issues can help you troubleshoot problems, and in some cases, get your system working again. This guide will walk you through some typical heating issues and help you decide when it’s time to call a professional.

What’s Wrong with Your Heater?

Uneven Heating

Does one room feel like a sauna while another feels like the Arctic? Uneven heating is often caused by airflow blockages or system inefficiencies.

To troubleshoot:

  • Make sure all vents and registers are open and free from obstructions (like furniture or curtains) that may prevent heat from reaching certain areas.
  • Replace filters regularly – every 1-3 months – to make sure no clogs disrupt performance.

If vents and filters are in good condition, the problem could be with the system’s dampers or an improperly sized heater. This is when we’d recommend getting in touch with a professional to determine next best steps.

Short Cycling

Short cycling happens when your heater repeatedly turns on and off without completing a full heating cycle. This not only wastes energy but also prevents your home from staying warm and can signal a bigger issue.

To troubleshoot:

  • Ensure the thermostat is set to “auto” (not “on”) and the temperature settings are accurate. Replace dead or low batteries if needed.
  • A dirty filter restricts airflow, causing the heater to overheat and shut down prematurely. Replace the filter if it’s clogged.
  • Ensure vents and ducts are unobstructed. Blocked airflow can also cause overheating.

Short cycling can lead to long-term damage if ignored, so schedule a professional inspection if these steps don’t resolve the problem.

No Heat

If your heater is running but no warm air is coming out:

  1. Check that the thermostat is set to “heat” and replace batteries if they’re dead.
  2. Look for a tripped breaker in your electrical panel or a blown fuse that may be cutting power to the system.
  3. Some heaters have a reset button. Refer to your unit’s manual to locate and properly reset the system.
  4. Replace dirty air filters, as clogs can cause overheating and shut down the heater. Ensure vents are open and unobstructed.

If none of these steps work, the problem may involve frozen coils, gas supply interruptions, or mechanical issues requiring professional attention.

Heater Won’t Turn Off

If your heater keeps running continuously, it’s a clear sign that something’s wrong. Not only does this waste energy, but it can also lead to wear and tear on your system.

To troubleshoot:

  • Set the thermostat to “auto” rather than “on.” When set to “on,” the fan will run continuously, even when your home has reached the desired temperature. If the thermostat is already on “auto” but the heater won’t shut off, slightly lower the temperature setting to see if it responds.
  • Replace the air filter. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to overheat and triggering the heater to keep running in an attempt to compensate.
  • Look for a stuck fan limit switch. If it’s stuck or malfunctioning, the heater might keep running. While this usually requires professional repair, you can check the system’s manual to locate the switch and see if resetting it resolves the problem.

Call Chilly Ben’s for Reliable Heating Repairs

When your heater isn’t working and DIY fixes aren’t enough, trust Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning to restore your home’s warmth. Our team will quickly identify the issue and get your system back in working order so you can stay warm all winter.

Call us today at (270) 776-3691 for fast, reliable heating service!

Home for the Holidays? Heating Tips for Large Gatherings!

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating, Tips. No Comments on Home for the Holidays? Heating Tips for Large Gatherings!

The holidays are a time for family, friends and celebrations – but hosting large gatherings can take a toll on your heating system. With extra people in your home, more doors opening and closing, and heightened activity levels, it’s easy for indoor temperatures to become inconsistent.

To help you create a warm and welcoming environment, our team at Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning has compiled a few heating tips to ensure your home stays comfortable this holiday season!

Prep Your Heating System

Preparing your heating system ahead of time is key to keeping your home warm and comfortable for your guests, and you can start by scheduling a professional maintenance check! A local HVAC expert can clean, tune-up, and inspect your heating system before the holidays to best prevent costly and extremely inconvenient malfunctions or breakdowns.

Other preparations include:

  • Replacing Your Air Filters. Clean filters promote unrestricted airflow and better air quality. You should change your filter every 30 to 90 days throughout the year.
  • Checking Your Thermostat Calibration. Make sure that your thermostat reads temperatures accurately for consistent heating. Your HVAC technician should handle this for you during a maintenance service visit as well.
  • Stocking Up on Essentials. Keep extra air filters and thermostat batteries on hand for quick fixes.

Improve Air Circulation

Crowded spaces can quickly block airflow, leading to uneven heating and discomfort. To ensure warm air circulates effectively during your holiday gatherings, consider these ventilation tips:

  • Keep Vents Unobstructed. Keep furniture, clothing, and decorations away from air vents to allow for proper airflow.
  • Open Interior Doors. Promote open interior spaces to help heat distribute evenly throughout the house.
  • Place Air Purifiers Strategically. Reduce allergens and improve overall air quality, especially important with increased foot traffic and exterior door usage.
  • Use Ceiling Fans. A low, clockwise setting helps to circulate warm air and maintain an even temperature.

Bonus Tips For a Cozy (And Energy-Smart) Home

Hosting a gathering doesn’t have to mean sky-high utility bills or sacrificing comfort. Try these additional tips to keep your home warm and inviting:

  • Set an optimal thermostat range of 68 to 70°F during gatherings.
  • Take advantage of sunlight by keeping curtains and blinds open during daytime hours.
  • Coordinate cooking times so that kitchen heat helps with large gathering heating and gives your HVAC system a break.
  • Place throw blankets and area rugs around to help insulate your home and give everyone a cozy feel.
  • Check for drafts around windows and doors, and apply weather stripping as needed to keep the cold out and warm air in.
  • Make sure everyone knows they can dress comfortably with additional layers at different times of the day and evenings.

Count on Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning for Year-Round Comfort!

If you’re looking for expert HVAC services to keep your home comfortable during the holidays and beyond, trust Chilly Ben’s. Proudly serving Bowling Green, KY and the surrounding areas, we provide reliable maintenance, repairs and installations to meet your needs year-round!

Call us today at (270) 776-3691 to schedule HVAC maintenance or learn more about how we can help you stay cozy this holiday season.

5 of The Most Frustrating Furnace Problems (And How To Avoid Them)

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When cold weather arrives, we expect our furnaces to perform flawlessly. But, of course, our heating systems don’t always go along…

Problems often seem to pop up at the most inconvenient times — leaving your home cold and uncomfortable.

Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning shares the following list of some of the common and frustrating furnace problems we face (and how to prevent them) when the heating season begins!

1. Furnace Isn’t Getting Power

If your furnace won’t turn on or keeps shutting off unexpectedly, it’s likely not receiving the power it needs to operate properly.

Signs: The furnace might short cycle (turn on and off repeatedly) or fail to start at all, with no airflow coming through the vents.

Cause: This could be due to issues like a tripped circuit breaker, loose wiring, or electrical component failure.

Prevention: Regular professional inspections can help catch these problems early. Additionally, check your electrical panel to ensure the breaker for your heating system is switched on.

2. Thermostat Set Incorrectly

If your thermostat isn’t set properly, your furnace may not turn on or fail to produce enough heat to warm your home.

Signs: The furnace doesn’t respond when you adjust the thermostat, or the house stays cooler than expected.

Cause: The thermostat may be set to “cool,” “fan only,” or at a lower temperature than what’s needed for heating.

Prevention: Always double-check that your thermostat is set to “heat” and at a temperature higher than the current room temperature.

3. Making Strange Noises

If your furnace is running but starts to make unusual sounds (either intermittently or all the time), this could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.

Signs: You might hear loud banging, squealing or other strange noises coming from the furnace.

Cause: Loose components, worn-out blower belts, or debris buildup inside the system are often the cause.

Prevention: Regular furnace tune-ups can help catch and fix these problems early, keeping your furnace running both quietly and efficiently.

4. Pilot Light Issues

A malfunctioning pilot light can stop your furnace from working properly and may also pose safety risks.

Signs: The pilot light keeps going out or burns with a yellow flame instead of the usual blue.

Cause: Common causes include drafts, a faulty thermocouple, or issues with the gas line.

Prevention: Have a professional technician inspect your furnace regularly to ensure proper ventilation, and check for problems with the thermocouple and gas lines.

5. Not Producing Heat

Your furnace might be running, but if it’s only blowing cool air, something isn’t working as it should.

Signs: The furnace is operating, but the house isn’t getting any warmer.

Cause: This is often caused by clogged air filters or a malfunctioning blower motor, which can also lead to overheating issues.

Prevention: Regular maintenance by an HVAC technician ensures critical components like blower motors and air filters are inspected and kept in good condition.

Maintaining Your Furnace

Along with regular professional tune-ups, you can take a few simple steps to ensure your furnace runs smoothly during the colder months:

  • Replace air filters every 30 to 90 days.
  • Keep all vents and registers clean, open, and unobstructed.
  • Periodically check that your thermostat settings are set for heating.

Call Us For Expert Furnace Help

Whether your furnace isn’t powering on or you’re dealing with persistent pilot light issues, the team at Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help! Our licensed HVAC technicians offer only the best furnace maintenance and repair services throughout the Bowling Green, KY area, equipped with the skills and tools to get the job done right.

Give us a call today at (270) 776-3691 to learn more and schedule your service!

Choosing the Best Air Purifiers for Fall Allergies

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Spring isn’t the only time allergy symptoms make you miserable. Mold spores, dust mites, and ragweed pollen also cause sneezing, sniffling, and itchy eyes in the fall.

What’s the solution when it’s nearly impossible to avoid every autumn allergy flare-up trigger and the culprits easily infiltrate indoor spaces?

Why not invest in an air purifier?

Here’s more on choosing the best air purifiers, including what to look for and how to compare your options.

Air Purifier Basics To Know Before You Purchase

Air purifiers pull air into a filter that removes contaminants. The unit then pulls that cleaned air back into the room.

Depending on the device’s size and air exchange rate, a purifier can remove nearly all allergens from a space in a matter of minutes.

Some purifiers target specific pollutants, while others, like those with activated carbon, remove odors. However, when choosing the best air purifier to alleviate your family’s fall allergy symptoms, you’ll always want to go with a HEPA filter. A true HEPA filter can remove up to 99.7% of irritants from the air, including pollen, dander, mold, and dust particles.

A Quick Note About CADR Ratings

When choosing the best air purifiers, be sure to look for a high Clean Air Delivery Rate.

The CADR measures how quickly the device removes contaminants from the air compared to how fast they naturally settle onto surfaces.

Our Top Choices for Air Purifiers

Not sure where to start shopping for an air purifier? Consider these options.

Medify MA-112 

This air purifier’s fully-loaded features earn it high marks in the allergy symptom reduction department, even when used in large spaces. It’s a dual HEPA filtration system. There’s also a “Pollen” mode for purer results.

Levoit Core 400 

Although some users note this powerful air purifier has a higher noise level, it’s an ideal option for eliminating both allergens and odors from the air. It includes a pre-filter, a HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter.

BlueAir 311i Max

An excellent choice for cleaning the air in bedrooms, the BlueAir 311 Max is also ideal for people with pet allergies. The tabletop device has a washable fabric pre-filter to catch large particles and a true HEPA filter to collect pollen and dust mites. It also has a fast air exchange rate, purifying a 465-square-foot room’s air in under 15 minutes.

Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover  

This versatile air purifier is available in five sizes, making it ideal for households with multiple allergy sufferers. It can also capture pollutants up to .3 microns, smaller than any other model on the list. Honeywell’s filter replacements are affordable, too.

Alen BreatheSmart 75i

The sleek design of the Alen BreatheSmart 75i may conceal its powerful air purification capabilities somewhat, but it can clean up to 1,300 square feet and remove allergens as small as .1 microns. It’s also practically silent.

More Help Improving Indoor Air Quality

For expert advice on the best air purifiers for fall allergies or whole-house air filtration systems, the choice is simple.

Get personalized recommendations today – call Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning at (270) 776-3691!

Preparing Your HVAC System for the Back-to-School Season

Preparing Your HVAC System for the Back-to-School Season

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Tips. No Comments on Preparing Your HVAC System for the Back-to-School Season

Are your kids heading back to school and you want to set them up for success? Don’t underestimate the effect your HVAC system has on memory, concentration, and motivation. 

Whether you’re a parent of school-age children or a college student with your own place, Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning can keep you comfortable so you can focus on what matters!

Why Is Back-to-School Season a Milestone?

Whether you have a heat pump or a split system that uses both a furnace and air conditioner, as school begins, temperatures start dropping. 

Though you won’t start experiencing real fall temperatures until October, you’ll begin the process of transitioning from cooling to heating. This presents a great opportunity to prepare your furnace and shore up your air conditioner after running it all summer.

Preparing Your HVAC System for the Cooler Season

With uncomfortable temperatures in your home, your kids can’t focus on studying and won’t sleep well. By ensuring you have a fully functioning HVAC system and using the following best practices, you can help them have a successful year of school.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Heading back to school signals it’s time for your heating system’s seasonal inspection. Your HVAC technician will check your system performance and ensure your furnace or heat pump can handle keeping you comfortable throughout the winter. 

Autumn maintenance usually involves the following tasks:

  • Filter replacement
  • An energy efficiency assessment
  • Cleaning the blower fan
  • Tightening all connections
  • Searching for gas leaks or carbon monoxide
  • Testing the thermostat’s calibration and sensors
  • Measure the airflow of your device and ductwork

Regular maintenance keeps your heating costs low, reduces the frequency of your repairs, and ensures a higher level of indoor air quality.

Assess Your Cooling System

Were you comfortable throughout the summer? If you notice poor performance or low cooling efficiency, you can schedule repairs for your air conditioner when the kids head back to school. This ensures you won’t have to endure extreme heat while waiting for the technician to fix your device.

You should also take the opportunity to replace your air filter so you won’t worry about it once spring returns. Even if the temperatures haven’t dropped low enough to use your furnace, consider shutting off your air conditioner to reduce wear and tear on your device.

Program Your Thermostat

Do you know the ideal temperature for studying and sleeping? Most people sleep best with the thermostat set between 65 and 68 degrees.

Many experts suggest setting the temperature between 70 and 78 to improve concentration. To save money on your expenses, consider setting your thermostat at the lower end of the spectrum.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Allergies and germs can cause a string of sick days. To keep from falling behind, clean your ducts, change your filter, and consider investing in an air purification system.

Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning Cares for Your HVAC System

When you need maintenance and repairs for your HVAC system, call Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning. We ensure you stay comfortable and safe no matter the weather so you can focus on living your life. Call 270-776-3691 to learn more!

Tips To Improve Indoor Air Quality During Humid Summer Months

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Tips To Improve Indoor Air Quality During Humid Summer Months

Summers in Kentucky don’t just mean high temperatures — they also mean high humidity.

… both of which can negatively affect indoor air quality during the summer, making your home that much more uncomfortable.

This article will cover some professional tips to improve indoor air quality during humid summer months, helping you to beat the heat and stay cool and comfortable!

Replace Your Air Filters

Air filters can accumulate dust and restrict airflow, making it difficult for your AC to cool your home. Additionally, dirty filters can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

To ensure optimal performance and air quality, it’s important to replace your air filters at least once a year, preferably just before the summer months when AC usage peaks.

Use a Dehumidifier

A portable dehumidifier will help you better regulate moisture levels indoors. The best places to position portable dehumidifiers are out of the way in rooms you frequently use, such as in corners or on top of tables.

You can use several portable dehumidifiers or invest in a whole-home dehumidifier that connects to your central air system.

Clean Your Ducts

One of the most important tips to improve indoor air quality during humid summer months is to get duct cleaning. Ideally, you should schedule professional duct cleaning at least once every three to five years to keep indoor air quality at optimal concentrations and increase ventilation.

Don’t Use Harsh Cleaners

Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, such as bleach. These chemical cleaners create volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can trigger respiratory distress and irritate the eyes. Stick to natural cleaners with no artificial dyes or scents.

Vacuum Frequently

You can promote healthy indoor air quality during the summer by vacuuming and dusting frequently. Dust collects moisture and increases indoor humidity, so vacuuming will help regulate humidity levels. You need to vacuum more frequently if you have pets like dogs and cats to manage pet hair and dander.

Indoor Air Quality FAQ

What Is the Ideal Humidity Level?

According to the EPA, ideal indoor humidity levels should be between 30 and 50%.

Do I Need a HEPA Filter for Air Quality?

No, residential air conditioners do not need a HEPA filter to improve air quality. HEPA-grade filters are too fine for residential air conditioners, so they unnecessarily restrict airflow.

Is Poor Air Quality a Health Hazard?

Yes, poor air quality can cause respiratory distress, difficulties concentrating, and negatively affect sleep quality.

South Central Kentucky Heating and Cooling

Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning is here for all your HVAC needs, no matter how big or small.

If you would like more tips to improve indoor air quality during humid summer months, contact us online or give us a call today at (270) 776-3691!

How Do AC Compressors Work?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Tips. No Comments on How Do AC Compressors Work?

You’ve probably heard that AC compressors are the most important parts of air conditioning systems, but how do they work? 

In this post, we’ll cover all the details you need to know.

How Air Conditioning Compressors Work in Five Steps

It’s hard to designate any part of air conditioning systems as the most important, but AC compressors have a pretty strong case. They are the focal point of the cooling process, pulling all the strings (mostly the refrigerant in this case) to ensure efficient heat absorption.

Here’s an abridged version of what happens inside your air conditioner when it’s running and how AC compressors help:

Step 1:

Warm air from your home enters the indoor unit, flowing over the evaporator coil. The coil contains cold, low-pressure refrigerant. The warm air blowing over the coil will lose its heat to the refrigerant and slowly turn into gas.

Step 2:

The gaseous refrigerant containing the heat absorbed from your indoor space flows into the compressor. Once in there, the compressor squeezes the refrigerant vapor, increasing both its temperature and pressure.

Step 3:

The compressor pushes the hot, high-pressure refrigerant to the condenser unit which houses the condenser coils. The coils lose the absorbed heat to the outside air. The fan in the outdoor unit helps speed up this process. With the heat lost, the condenser will turn the refrigerant into a high-pressure liquid.

Step 4:

The liquid refrigerant will pass through an expansion valve, which will cause the pressure to drop and significantly lower the refrigerant’s temperature.

Step 5:

The cool, low-pressure refrigerant will re-enter the evaporator coil, ready to absorb more heat from your indoor air again. The cycle will continue until you turn off the air conditioning unit.

It’s clear to see the importance of AC compressors in the cooling process. Without these components, there’s no way to regulate refrigerant pressure and flow.

FAQs

How Do I Know My Air Conditioner’s Compressor Is Working?

If your air conditioner’s compressor is working, you’ll hear a consistent buzzing sound coming from the outdoor unit. Some of the buzz will come from the fan next to it, but the outdoor unit will be a lot quieter if the compressor is bad.

Perhaps the most straightforward sign of compressor issues is that your unit will not deliver any cool air.

Is the Outdoor Unit the AC Compressor?

The outdoor unit houses the compressor and other components. The compressor is a component that has a cylindrical shape (like a small gas tank). The size will depend on whether you have a split system, a portable air conditioner, or ductless mini split air conditioners.

How Long Do AC Compressors Last?

AC compressors can last the entire lifespan of the AC. Therefore, you can expect yours to last up to 15 years with regular maintenance, depending on the system’s efficiency ratings.

Get Further Guidance From Your Local Experts

Do you need to learn more about AC compressors? Do you need help choosing the right AC compressor system for your home?

Call the Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning team at 270-776-3691 to schedule a consultation.

Tips To Avoid Overworking Your AC Unit

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Tips To Avoid Overworking Your AC Unit

Air conditioners have the important responsibility of keeping our homes cool during the hottest months of the year. However, your AC unit may not be able to handle the strain you put on it during peak cooling season. In this guide, the experts at Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning explain tips to avoid overworking your air conditioner.

Why You Should Reduce the Strain on Your HVAC System

Regardless of whether you have a central cooling system or use window air conditioners, you want to be careful not to operate the unit in excess. But why should you worry about this in the first place? An overworked system will endure more wear and tear which could lead to premature replacement or costly repairs. In addition, it will increase your energy bills and make an environmental impact.

This begs the question: how can you avoid overworking your air conditioner?

How To Reduce the Strain on Your Air Conditioner

When the outdoor temperature rises, it’s tempting to crank up the AC and let it cool your home. Implement the following tips to stay cool without overworking your air conditioner.

Change Your Filter

HVAC air filters collect a lot of allergens over time. Your system must work harder to distribute cool air as the filter gets dirtier, so follow a regimented schedule for changing the filter. This not only preserves your unit but also improves indoor air quality by eliminating harmful pollutants like:

  • Dust
  • Pollen
  • Pet hair and dander
  • And more

Adjust Your Thermostat

Keeping the thermostat at a low temperature can be difficult for the air conditioner to meet demands. You can reduce the strain and lower your energy costs by bumping the thermostat up a few degrees and using fans around the home to circulate cool air.

Invest in a Smart Thermostat

Do you often forget to change the thermostat settings? A smart thermostat can take care of this problem by connecting to your smartphone so you can control it from your device. This technology uses artificial intelligence to automatically make adjustments based on your habits.

Keep the Unit Running

How can constantly running the air conditioner be a good thing? If you’re always powering the system down when you leave the house and then turn it back on hours later, it will need to run longer cooling cycles to reach your desired temperature. A smarter solution would be to adjust the thermostat a few degrees higher before you leave and then change it once you’re back home.

Close Your Blinds

An abundance of sunshine can make your home feel even warmer. During the sun’s peak hours, close any blinds and curtains along windows that receive direct sunlight. This simple step helps keep the house cool without putting additional strain on your HVAC system.

Receive Professional HVAC Solutions

Protecting your AC unit from overuse will help you prolong its lifespan. However, if your system needs repairs or it’s time to upgrade, count on Chilly Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer affordable services with special financing available.

Call 270-776-3691 to request service.

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