The Comfort Zone Blog – Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing

What’s the Best AC System for Georgia Homes?

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:53:00 GMT

Georgia summers aren’t for the faint of heart. Every year, our humid subtropical climate graces the state with sticky temps soaring into the 90s, leaving us with our noses up against the air vent in search of relief. Here, a dependable air conditioner isn’t just about comfort, it’s necessary for survival. In fact, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 95% of Georgia homes use some type of air conditioning, and 86% rely specifically on central AC systems to beat the heat. ¹

As energy efficiency and environmental awareness grow in the state, more homeowners are reevaluating their cooling setups. Whether you’re building a new home, replacing an outdated system, or looking to cut down on your utility bills, we’ll cover the major AC options available and help you choose the right one for your home.

The Most Popular Type of System in GA: Central Air Conditioning

There’s a good reason why central air conditioning dominates in Georgia homes. Central AC systems distribute cooled air through a network of ducts, offering whole-home coverage that’s hard to beat. It’s reliable, powerful, and the best at keeping larger spaces cool.

Unless you live in a particularly old home, you’re more likely than not to have existing ductwork for central heating and cooling. In the US, 91% of homes built in 2000 or later have central air ducts—meanwhile, only half of homes built before 1940 have ductwork. ² And when you consider that the median home age in Georgia is only 31 years old, it becomes very clear that central air conditioning is a no-brainer for many homeowners. ³

However, central air conditioning isn’t without drawbacks. If your home’s ductwork is old, poorly insulated, or leaking, your system will waste precious energy and money to do its job. Plus, central AC units can be noisier than ductless systems, especially during peak operation.

The Pros:

Most effective for cooling large spaces with multiple rooms.
Widely available and serviced by most HVAC professionals.
Lower initial cost compared to many ductless options.
Better filtration capabilities, improving indoor air quality.
Integrates easily with other HVAC features like smart thermostats, humidity control, and air purifiers.

The Cons:

Prone to costly inefficiencies due to leaky ductwork and poor insulation.
Noisier operation compared to ductless air conditioning.
Expensive and labor-intensive to install if you don’t have existing ductwork.

The Rising Star of Home Cooling: Ductless Air Conditioning

As of 2020, 18% of homes in Georgia used individual AC units—a figure that includes ductless AC systems, window units, and portable air conditioners. But ductless systems, also known as mini-split systems, are gaining popularity in the state.

Ductless AC systems are made up of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor units mounted on the walls, ceilings, or floors of your home. This type of cooling system was developed by Mitsubishi Electric and Toshiba throughout the 1950s and 1960s as an alternative to window air conditioners in Japan. ⁴

Now, ductless air conditioners are found all over the world, readily adopted for its versatile design, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. They’re perfect for homeowners looking to boost efficiency, reduce energy bills, and add targeted cooling to specific areas without the cost or hassle of adding ducts. They’re also a great option for supplementing an existing central AC system.

If you upgrade to a ductless mini split system, you may even qualify for local rebate incentives such as the Georgia Power rebate program , which rewards homeowners for energy-saving home improvements.

Ductless AC vs. Ductless Heat Pumps

We’d be remiss not to mention that ductless mini split systems fall into two major categories: ductless AC and ductless heat pumps.

While ductless AC units strictly provide cooling, ductless heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities. This makes them particularly useful in Georgia, where winters are typically mild and don’t require a heavy-duty furnace.

If you’re upgrading an older AC system and want something versatile that works year-round, a ductless heat pump may be worth the investment. They cost more upfront but can replace both your air conditioner and heater, potentially reducing long-term energy costs.

The Pros:

Highly energy efficient with minimal energy loss.
Zoned cooling lets you customize temperatures room by room.
Extremely quiet operation.
Ideal for older homes, home additions or converted spaces without ductwork.
Compatible with smart thermostats and advanced control systems.
Opportunities to combine heating and cooling in a single system.
May qualify you for home improvement rebate programs and tax credits.

The Cons:

Higher upfront costs than traditional central AC systems.
Indoor units are visible and may not suit all interior designs.
Air filtration isn’t as robust compared to central air conditioning.

The Low-Cost DIY Option: Window AC Units

Window units are still a go-to for many Georgians who need a quick and affordable cooling solution. These compact systems are easy to install yourself and are great for renters or homeowners on a tight budget.

While they’re not great for whole-home cooling, window units can be a viable stopgap for guest rooms, garages, or temporary setups. You just need to be prepared to troubleshoot issues on your own if your window AC suddenly goes kaput.

The Pros:

Low upfront cost.
Simple installation with no structural changes to home.
Great for small rooms or apartments.

The Cons:

Noisy operation, especially older models.
May reduce home security if not installed properly.
Visibly bulky and can clash with home aesthetics.
Limited cooling power, often restricted to one room.
Not typically supported or serviced by professional HVAC companies.

Which AC System is Best for Georgians?

Every home is different, and so are the cooling needs of its residents. The best AC system for your home depends on factors like square footage, insulation, existing ductwork, and personal preferences.

If you already have ducts in place and want a cost-effective solution for whole-home cooling, central air remains a solid choice. It’s also a great fit for homeowners who prioritize better filtration and integrated smart home features.

At the same time, the market in Georgia is shifting toward high-efficiency, eco-friendly systems. According to Statista, the HVAC industry in the state is experiencing increased demand for systems that reduce energy use and carbon emissions, thanks in part to state regulations and consumer awareness. ⁵ Choosing an Energy Star-certified system can put you ahead of the curve while also shrinking your utility bills.

How to Choose the Right System for Your Georgia Home

If you keep going back and forth between AC options, ask yourself the following:

What type of system do you currently have?
Replacing a similar system might make financial sense if your ductwork is in good shape. But if your central AC is on its last legs, now might be the time to explore ductless or hybrid options.
How big is your home, and how is it laid out?
Large, multi-room homes may benefit from central air’s full-coverage capabilities, while smaller or uniquely shaped homes can take advantage of ductless zoning.
What’s your budget?
While ductless systems and heat pumps have higher initial costs, they offer long-term savings. Consider your monthly energy bills and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Do you want modern features like smart controls, air purification, or humidity balancing?
Modern systems come packed with smart tech and integrations that can optimize your comfort and efficiency. If there is a specific smart home or IAQ feature you want to integrate with your AC, that may become a deciding factor.

If you’re still on the fence, that’s okay. The most important step is to get personalized guidance from an HVAC professional who knows what works best in your area.

A Licensed Contractor Can Point You in the Right Direction

Choosing the right air conditioning system for your Georgia home isn’t a decision you have to make alone. With so many variables at play, it’s smart to consult an expert who understands the pros and cons of each option and has your comfort in mind. An in-home consultation with an HVAC company you trust is the best place to start. They will be able to measure your home’s dimensions, evaluate your current system’s performance, and provide a curated list of options based on your requirements.

The post What’s the Best AC System for Georgia Homes? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Winter Warmth: How to Avoid Dry Air Discomfort

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 15:37:00 GMT

As the last leaves fall and temperatures drop, we find ourselves turning on the heaters. While the warmth is comforting, it comes with a downside: dry air. This can lead to various issues like dry skin, irritated sinuses, and scratchy throats. Beyond health problems, dry air also causes static electricity, more dust, damage to wood and leather, and unhappy house plants. Here’s how to combat the dry air while enjoying your cozy home.

1. Use a Humidifier: Running a humidifier in your home can add moisture and help maintain optimal humidity levels, typically between 30-50%.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance on your Heating System: Clean filters and check for any issues that might affect humidity levels.

3. Seal Air Leaks: Don’t let the dry air from outside sneak into your home, insulate your home and seal any air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings.

4. Use Indoor Plants: Some indoor plants such as spider plants, peace lilies, and ferns can naturally add moisture to the air through a process called transpiration.

5. Take Shorter, Cooler Showers: Hot showers can increase humidity temporarily, but shorter, cooler showers can help maintain a balanced indoor humidity level.

6. Place Bowls of Water Around: Placing bowls of water near heat sources can help increase humidity as the water evaporates.

While these tips can help keep dry air at bay to provide a cozy haven, when living in a state like Georgia, with extremely high humidity in the summer and low humidity in the winter, homeowners should consider installing a whole-house humidifier for year-round comfort. The humidifier integrates with your existing heating and air system to provide your home with the optimal level of moisture for comfort and health. There are different types of humidifiers, and the HVAC pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing can help you make an informed decision about the best one for your home.

At Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing , We Want to be Your Humidity Hero! We strive to enrich our community with an unmatched focus on customer happiness. That means always—and respectfully— providing responsive service, quality work, fair pricing, and honest guidance.

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Tips to Save Money on Your Heating this Winter

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 21:01:00 GMT

Southern winters can be unpredictable, but to keep that “comfort of home” feeling, you will have to use your heat. Running a home’s HVAC system is often one of the most expensive utilities, so let’s explore some ways we can save a little money while staying warm over the winter.

Seal your Windows and Doors : Gaps around windows and doors are often a major source of heat loss in the home. Sealing these with caulk or weather stripping is a fairly inexpensive way to minimize leakage.

Have your HVAC maintenance done : Early in the season is best to ensure your system is running at peak performance all season.

Install a Programmable Thermostat : A programmable thermostat that allows you to easily adjust temperatures, heating and cooling, for when no one is home will provide year-round savings.

Switch your Ceiling Fan Rotation : In the winter, ceiling fans should be switched to circulate clockwise, which helps distribute the warm air. Most fans have a switch on their base for this.

Energy-Efficient HVAC models : Another way to save money year-round is by investing in an energy-efficient HVAC unit when it’s time to upgrade.

Use Sunlight : Open your window treatments during the day and let the sun’s heat help warm your home. Close them back at night to retain heat.

Close Unused Vents : If you have spaces that aren’t used often, close the vents to force warm air into other areas of your home.

Use your Fireplace : Fires not only provide a nice ambiance but also serve as an extra heat source on chilly days.

By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a warm and cozy home without breaking the bank. Small changes can lead to significant savings, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the winter months.

At Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing , We Want to be Your Heating Hero! Become a member of our Comfort Club to save even more. We strive to enrich our community with an unmatched focus on customer happiness. That means always—and respectfully— providing responsive service, quality work, fair pricing, and honest guidance. Schedule an Appointment today and we’ll come service your HVAC so it’s running at peak efficiency.

The post Tips to Save Money on Your Heating this Winter appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Everything You Need to Know About Air Filters

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:03:00 GMT

Air filters are in every HVAC system and changing them regularly should be part of your home’s routine maintenance. The filter’s purpose is to remove impurities from the air you have circulating in your home. Regularly changing the air filter ensures you have clean air, and it plays a huge part in keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and cooling efficiently. Your filter should be changed every 4-6 weeks.

The air filter is usually located near the air handler, typically in your basement, attic, or utility closet. If you have a larger home, you might have more than one HVAC, so make sure you change the filters in all of them.

Size:

Having the right size filter is crucial to its effectiveness. Figure out what size you need by removing and checking the old filter, the size should be printed on the side. If not, look at the operator’s manual or measure the old filter’s length, width, and thickness.

The standard thickness of an air filter is 1 inch however, filters are available in thicknesses up to 6 inches. A thicker filter extends the time before you need to change it.

Types:

Polyester or fiberglass are the most common disposable air filters due to their affordability and ability to trap common particles like dust and lint.

Pleated are disposable and have a better ability to capture smaller particles with their larger surface area.

HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) can remove almost all dust, pollen, and mold.

Washable can be cleaned and reused.

Electrostatic has disposable and reusable options. They work by generating static electricity to capture particles.

MERV Ratings:

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value ( MERV ) is used to help you determine the effectiveness of an air filter for your home needs. The system rates on a scale of 1-20 with the 20 being the most effective. A minimum rating of 6 is recommended and a rating of 8-13 is most common for residential use.

1 – 4: Pollen, dust mites, dust, and small fibers.
5 – 8: Mold spores, hair spray, dust mites, animal dander, and cement dust.
9 – 12: Humidifier dust, lead dust, auto emissions, and milled flour.
13 and above: Household dust and pollen, pet dander, outdoor pollution, mold spores, microscopic allergens, bacteria , most tobacco smoke, sneeze bacteria, and virus carriers.

Changing your home’s air filter regularly and getting an annual tune-up are the best preventative measures you can take to ensure your HVAC runs smoothly and efficiently for years. While changing the air filter is a simple task most homeowners can do themselves, a tune-up should be performed by an honest and reputable HVAC company.

At Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing , We Want to be Your HVAC maintenance Hero! We strive to enrich our community with an unmatched focus on customer happiness. That means always—and respectfully— providing responsive service, quality work, fair pricing, and honest guidance. Schedule an Appointment today and we’ll come service your HVAC so it’s running at peak efficiency.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Air Filters appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Knowing When to Repair Your AC Unit vs. When to Replace It

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:23:00 GMT

In the heat of summer, especially in the south, few things are more essential than a fully functioning air conditioning unit . Yet, like all appliances, AC systems are prone to wear and tear over time. The dilemma often faced by homeowners is determining whether to repair their existing unit or invest in a new one altogether. This decision can impact both comfort and finances significantly. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this decision-making process:

Assessing the Age of Your AC Unit

Age is a crucial factor in deciding between repair and replacement. Most air conditioning units have an average lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is nearing or surpassing this range, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continue repairing it. Newer models are generally more energy-efficient and reliable, potentially saving you money in the long run on utility bills and maintenance costs.

Frequency and Cost of Repairs

Consider how often your AC unit requires repairs and the cost of those repairs. Minor issues such as a faulty capacitor or a refrigerant leak can often be fixed affordably. However, if your unit is experiencing frequent breakdowns or requires a major repair, these costs can quickly add up. As a rule of thumb, if the repair cost is equal to or greater than 50% of the cost of a new unit, replacement may be the more sensible option.

Energy Efficiency Concerns

Older AC units tend to be less energy-efficient than newer models. Advances in technology have led to the development of air conditioning systems that consume less electricity while providing superior cooling performance. If your current unit is driving up your energy bills, upgrading to a more efficient model could result in substantial savings over time.

Performance and Comfort Issues

Are you satisfied with the performance of your current AC unit? Has it struggled to cool your home adequately, or do you find certain rooms consistently warmer than others? These performance issues could indicate underlying problems that might not be fully resolved through repairs. Upgrading to a new unit can offer improved comfort and even distribution of cool air throughout your home.

Environmental Considerations

Modern AC units are designed with environmental sustainability in mind, using refrigerants that are less harmful to the ozone layer and consume less energy. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, replacing your old AC unit with a newer, eco-friendly model could align with your environmental values.

Consultation with HVAC Professionals

While repairing a malfunctioning AC unit can offer temporary relief, there comes a point where investing in a replacement unit becomes the wiser choice. Factors such as age, repair costs, energy efficiency, and overall performance should all be weighed carefully when making this decision. Considering these factors, you can ensure optimal comfort in your home while making a financially sound investment in your long-term comfort and energy savings.

Ultimately, the best action often involves consulting with a trusted and reliable HVAC company, such as Comfort Zone, that will take the time to educate you and help guide you in your decision making. Comfort Zone will assess the condition of your current unit, provide an estimate for repairs versus replacement costs, and recommend the most suitable options based on your needs and budget.

The post Knowing When to Repair Your AC Unit vs. When to Replace It appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Beat the Heat: Get Your Air Conditioner Tune-up in the Spring!

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:37:00 GMT

Ask any HVAC company in North Georgia or Atlanta and they’ll tell you their busiest time is in the summer. That’s when they’re racing from house to house to do long-put-off AC repairs and responding to cooling emergency service calls.

If you ask us, we’ll tell you we want our busy season to be the spring, doing AC tune-ups. The reason is in our name: Comfort Zone. We don’t want you to have the discomfort of expensive repair bills and no AC on the hottest day of the year. We’d rather see you enjoy the comfort of affordable and reliable air conditioning all summer long. Getting an AC tune-up, aka air conditioner maintenance , in the spring is the best way to do that.

Top 3 Reasons to Schedule Springtime AC Maintenance

1. You avoid AC service delays due to the summer crunch. When the cooling season is in full swing, HVAC companies are swamped. No matter what AC service you need – maintenance, repairs, or replacement – it’s going to take longer to happen. Some companies might even reschedule an appointment for maintenance or minor repairs to take care of a cooling emergency.

2. AC maintenance allows a tech to find and fix potential problems early. When we do preventive maintenance, we always keep an eye out for any issues that could develop into a full-blown problem once you’re using your AC nonstop. This prevents a minor issue from becoming a major repair just when you need your air conditioner the most. On top of that, you can bet that catching and fixing a problem early will be less expensive than repairing it later.

3. An air conditioner tune-up lowers your utility bill. Part of preventive AC maintenance entails cleaning, tightening, and lubricating parts. This not only reduces wear and tear: It also enables your AC system to operate at peak efficiency, which lowers your electric bill. By kicking off the cooling season with a well-tuned system, you maximize your energy savings.

There’s No Wrong Time for AC Maintenance Although spring is the ideal time for preventive maintenance, it’s never too late to benefit from having it done. Whether it’s the beginning of April or the middle of July, an AC tune-up is still the best way to get through the rest of the cooling season without a total breakdown. Schedule your AC maintenance today .

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How Often Should You Schedule Preventive Maintenance for a Heat Pump?

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Regular preventive maintenance is the single best way to ensure your home HVAC system is up to the task of keeping you comfortable whatever the season. If you’re like most homeowners and have separate central heating and cooling systems, you should schedule maintenance with a professional HVAC company twice a year. In other words, you need an AC tune-up for the cooling season and a furnace tune-up for the heating season.

You might be thinking: That makes sense – two separate systems, two separate tune-ups. But what about a heat pump? It’s one system, so do I need to schedule preventive maintenance only once a year?

Even though a heat pump is a single system, it requires the same maintenance schedule as separate heating and cooling systems.

Why Your Heat Pump Needs a Tune-up Twice a Year

A heat pump does double duty, working throughout the heating and cooling seasons. This means it’s subject to twice the wear-and-tear of separate HVAC systems and needs preventive maintenance twice yearly. Another important point is that a heat pump uses a refrigerant to both heat and cool your home. If the refrigerant level is low, the system won’t be able to heat or cool adequately, if at all.

What Happens During a Heat Pump Tune-up?

A certified HVAC technician thoroughly inspects and tests the entire system, checking for worn parts, loose or frayed wires, and anything else that could prevent the heat pump from operating efficiently and effectively. He or she will also clean the various components, lubricate moving parts, tighten any loose parts, and check the refrigerant level.

The Benefits of Keeping Up with Routine Heat Pump Maintenance

Like with any piece of HVAC equipment, the better your heat pump is cared for, the better it will serve you. Biannual preventive maintenance:

Reduces the risk of expensive emergency service calls and repairs
Safeguards against the inconvenience and cost of avoidable breakdowns
Ensures your heat pump is operating efficiently, which lowers electric bills
Maximizes the system’s lifespan for a better return on your investment

A preventive maintenance plan, which some heating and cooling companies offer, can provide you with even more benefits and savings. Check out the Comfort Club , the preventive maintenance plan from Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing that includes extra benefits like discounts on repairs and enhanced warranties.

Comfort Zone, in Canton, Georgia, serves Atlanta and North Georgia – from Acworth and Alpharetta to Waleska and Woodstock.

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HVAC Myth: Low Indoor Humidity Is Not a Problem in Georgia Homes

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Most of the year, especially in the summer, North Georgia and Atlanta homes run the risk of indoor humidity that is too high. That’s why it’s so important to have an air conditioning system that is properly sized for your home. An AC system removes excess moisture, helping to achieve a comfortable humidity level.

It’s a different story during the heating season. Lower wintertime humidity coupled with indoor heating can result in indoor humidity that is too low. In other words, your HVAC system, in this case, actually contributes to an uncomfortable humidity level. This is especially true with forced-air heating systems, which are in a majority of homes.

How Overly Dry Indoor Air Affects Your Home and Overall Comfort

Dry, itchy skin is a telltale sign of low indoor humidity, and it can affect not just you and your family, but your pets as well. Additional problems caused by excessively dry air include:

Nasal and respiratory irritation, making you more susceptible to nose bleeds, stuffiness, coughing, and respiratory infections. It can also aggravate asthma and allergies in pets and people.
Heated air that does not feel as comfortable as it should. When humidity is too low, sweat evaporates faster and cools us down. As a result, many people raise the thermostat setting in an attempt to feel warm. This, however, just makes your home even dryer and more uncomfortable, while increasing your utility bill.
Damage to wood furniture and fixtures. Low humidity can cause wood to shrink or crack, loosen furniture joints, and even make pianos go out of tune.
Damage to leather goods. Just like wood, leather needs proper humidity to stay supple. Overly dry air makes leather upholstery, shoes, bags, and other articles of clothing prone to cracking and less resilient to normal wear and tear.

A Whole-House Humidifier Tackles All These Problems

A whole-house humidifier , when installed correctly, integrates with your existing heating system to provide your home with the optimal level of moisture for comfort and health. You set the level of humidity you want on your thermostat’s humidistat, and your whole-house humidifier does the rest. There are different types of humidifiers, and the HVAC pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing can help you make an informed decision about the best one for your home. Contact us today .

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Furnace or Heat Pump: What’s the Right Heating System for Your Atlanta, Georgia Home?

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 13:09:00 GMT

Atlanta is famous for its hot, humid weather, but winter temperatures can drop to 20 degrees or lower. To keep warm – and to prevent pipes from freezing – a safe, reliable home heating system is a must. Luckily, homeowners have great options available to them.

Here, we’ll go over some pros and cons of furnaces and heat pumps so you can make an informed decision when it comes time to install a new heating system or replace an old one.

Modern Gas and Electric Furnaces Are More Efficient than Ever

Furnaces have a reputation for being energy wasters. Although that is true of older models, many modern gas and electric furnaces feature technology that greatly improves energy efficiency. One of the ways you can gauge a heating unit’s efficiency is to look at the AFUE, or annual fuel utilization, rating.

For example, a furnace with an AFUE of 94% is 94% efficient in converting energy to heat, losing only 6% to waste, such as exhaust. Naturally, the higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.

Pros and Cons of Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces use natural gas, which is readily available and reasonably affordable, making them a popular choice in Atlanta. However, the fact that they burn fossil fuel is seen as a con by many homeowners who want to transition to alternative and renewable energy sources.

Another issue with a gas furnace is the potential for carbon monoxide leaks. This safety risk, however, is dramatically reduced by having only a licensed HVAC company install, repair, and maintain a gas furnace.

Pros and Cons of Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces use electricity to generate heat. Because they do not use natural gas (or other fuel sources, like oil or propane), electric furnaces eliminate the concerns around burning fossil fuels and carbon monoxide leaks. What’s their downside? Electricity is more expensive than natural gas, so it costs a bit more to operate an electric furnace than a gas furnace.

Heat Pumps Are the Gold Standard for Energy Efficiency

Heat pumps supply heat by extracting thermal energy from the outside and pumping it into your home. (An air-source heat pump draws from the air; a geothermal heat pump draws from the ground or a body of water.) When it comes to efficiency, heat pumps are the clear winner. In fact, they can yield up to three times more heat energy than they use in electricity to operate.

Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps have a lot going for them in addition to efficiency and lower utility bills. Because they work the same way as an air conditioner – a refrigerant absorbs heat and the heat is moved from one place to another – a heat pump will both heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer, so you don’t need separate heating and cooling systems. Also, they do not burn fossil fuels or pose a carbon monoxide risk.

If there’s one con, it’s the upfront expense. They cost more to purchase and install than gas and electric furnaces. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, however, some homeowners are eligible for substantial rebates and tax credits that could make a heat pump an efficient, affordable option for your Atlanta home.

Need Help Choosing the Best Heating System for Your Home? Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing is a trusted advisor to homeowners throughout Atlanta and North Georgia. Unlike other HVAC companies, we educate customers on their options so they can make the decision that’s right for them. Contact us today .

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Is It Time to Swap Out Your Programmable Thermostat for a Nest?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Programmable thermostats were once hailed as leading-edge energy savers for home heating and cooling. The idea behind this seems straightforward: Set a schedule for different temperatures at different times based on your family’s patterns. For example, if the house is empty during the day, program the thermostat to deliver lower levels of heating or cooling without sacrificing comfort.

Do programmable thermostats live up to their promise?

Overall, the expected energy savings do not pan out. Studies show that compared with manual thermostats, programmable thermostats can actually lead to increased energy consumption. How could that be? Human error.

Researchers found that a majority of homeowners either do not program the thermostat correctly, fail to use all of the thermostat’s features, or base their programming decisions on wrong assumptions about how HVAC works. Because of this, programmable thermostats are not Energy Star certified.

Enter the Nest thermostat that learns.

The Nest Learning Thermostat eliminates human error by programming itself. Using sensors and other sophisticated technology, it learns your household’s preferences and routines and adjusts heating and cooling schedules accordingly. This is a game-changer for energy savings.

Independent studies show that this (very) smart thermostat cuts heating bills by an average of 10% to 12% and cooling bills by 15%. In fact, it is the first thermostat to earn Energy Star certification.

Other great features of the Nest Learning Thermostat include:

Daily and monthly energy-usage reports, so you can see the energy savings for yourself and find opportunities for improvement
HVAC monitoring that alerts you to potential issues with your heating or cooling system
Compatibility with 95% of home heating and cooling systems

Is human error undermining energy savings in your home?

Unless you are certain you’re using your programmable thermostat correctly, it’s time to switch to a Nest. We recommend going one step further in eliminating human error by having your Nest Smart Thermostat installed by a licensed HVAC company. Any of the techs at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing would be happy to also show you how to use the Nest system to maximize your benefits.

And here’s a helpful tip: To avoid paying for a service call just for your new thermostat, simply plan to have it installed during a scheduled HVAC repair or maintenance visit.

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Four Signs It’s Time to Call for Air Conditioner Repair

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Sometimes it’s obvious that you need a certified HVAC technician to check out your central AC system. For instance, if the AC system doesn’t run at all, you wouldn’t hesitate to arrange for a service call. Then there are times when the AC runs, but something seems off. Some homeowners might be tempted to put off calling for repairs in this case, but here are four scenarios you should not ignore.

1. Air from the AC System Doesn’t Feel Cool Enough

There are a few things that could result in less-than-cool air coming out of your vents, but the most serious cause is low refrigerant. Running the AC unit without sufficient refrigerant could severely damage the compressor, which is very expensive to repair or replace. For this reason, it’s best not to use the AC until you have it checked out.

2. AC System Isn’t Blowing Enough Air

When the blown air is cool but the stream coming out of the vents is weak, the first thing you should do is check the air filter. A dirty filter restricts the flow of air through the AC system. If the filter is clean, or you replace it and you still have low air volume, it’s time to call for AC repair.

3. Electric Bills Are Unusually High

Sometimes the first sign you notice that something’s off with your air conditioner is your energy bill. If you see a sudden spike in your electricity consumption but have not changed your cooling or energy-usage patterns, you may need an AC tune-up or other repair.

4. AC System Makes Odd Noises

Every air conditioner has normal operational sounds, but banging, buzzing, or screeching is not part of the normal range. If your AC system makes these or any other unusual noises, you should call in an AC tech.

Arranging for a service call whenever you think your AC system is not performing the way it should is the best way to prevent an AC breakdown and ensure your comfort throughout the cooling season.

Need AC repair in metro Atlanta?

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Atlanta and North Georgia. Our certified HVAC techs are committed to doing whatever it takes to earn and retain your trust and your business. We also offer a free second opinion on any HVAC repair or replacement. Call 770-213-2665 to learn more.

The post Four Signs It’s Time to Call for Air Conditioner Repair appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta AC Tips: 5 Low-Tech Ways to Save Energy this Summer

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Innovations in HVAC technology have come a long way in the past decade or two. Smart thermostats, heat pumps, and zoned heating and cooling systems are just some of the energy-efficient options available to homeowners in Atlanta and North Georgia.

But what if you’re not ready or able to upgrade to an energy-efficient HVAC system just yet? No worries. There are some simple, low-tech ways to keep comfortable and save energy (and money!) during the cooling season.

1. Refresh Attic Insulation

Insulation reduces the flow of heat into your home in the summer. With adequate insulation, your air conditioner will not have to run as long or as often to keep your home cool. You may even be able to set your thermostat a bit higher and still feel comfortable.

2. Turn on the Fans

Did you know that most ceiling fans have a winter and a summer setting? When the fan is in the summer setting, the blades spin in the direction that forces warmer air up toward the ceiling, making the rest of the room feel cooler.

Portable fans are also a great option. Having one blow on you when you’re sleeping or sitting in one place can keep you comfortable without having to lower the thermostat. There is one caution, however: Don’t use a window fan to blow outdoor air into a room when it’s warmer than the indoor air . You’ll just be making the room hotter.

3. Close the Curtains

Sunlight pouring into a room can raise the temperature several degrees. You can keep the whole house cooler by closing up window coverings in rooms that people (or plants) aren’t using during the day.

4. Take Advantage of Cooler Nights

Even in our neck of the woods, there are times when the night and early morning temperatures may be cool enough to go without AC. Take advantage of this by opening up windows to let the cool air in. Then, when outdoor temps start to rise later in the morning, close everything back up. With the cooler air now sealed in, you’ll be able to stay comfortable longer before having to turn your AC back on.

5. Get a Professional AC Tune-up

Even an older air conditioner will operate more energy-efficiently when it’s properly tuned up and maintained. A worn belt, dirty filter, or loose nuts and bolts can all make your AC unit work harder and use more energy. A professional AC tune-up ensures your AC system runs as efficiently as possible. It can also help keep your current unit going until you’re ready for an HVAC upgrade.

Schedule Your AC Tune-up Today

Even though the cooling season has already started, it is never too late to make sure your AC system is in peak condition. Contact us today to schedule your AC tune-up .

The post Atlanta AC Tips: 5 Low-Tech Ways to Save Energy this Summer appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Air Conditioner Tonnage: What It Means and Why It Matters

Fri, 12 May 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Cooling systems can seem kind of mysterious and complex. HVAC terminology – like MERV, evaporator coil, seasonal energy efficiency ratio, just to name a few examples – is off-putting to most homeowners. Luckily, in most cases, you can run your AC system perfectly fine without having to master lots of technical jargon.

However, there is one term all homeowners should be familiar with when it’s time for an air conditioner replacement – and that is “tonnage.”

Tonnage Is Not What You Think It Is

You are not alone if you think tonnage refers to the weight of the AC unit. But, believe it or not, it actually refers to the cooling power of an air conditioner. More specifically, tonnage is the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from your home in one hour.

Here’s how that works. Heat removal is measured in BTUs (British thermal units), and it takes 1 BTU to increase the temperature of a pound of water by 1°F. But it takes about 12,000 BTUs per hour to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours. So, a one-ton air conditioner would remove 12,000 BTUs of heat from your home in one hour. A two-ton air condition would remove 24,000 BTUs, and so on.

More Tonnage Does Not Mean Better Comfort

When it comes to the tonnage of the AC system for your home, it’s important to get it right. Inadequate tonnage, whether it’s too low or too high, will not keep your home comfortable. In other words, it does not pay to buy the most powerful air conditioner you can afford.

Have Your AC System Professionally Sized

Summer will soon be here. If your aging air conditioner struggled to keep your home comfortable last summer, now’s the time for new AC installation . A licensed HVAC professional will determine the correct tonnage for your home and make sure the AC system is installed properly so that it operates safely and efficiently.

The post Air Conditioner Tonnage: What It Means and Why It Matters appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

A Whole-House Dehumidifier Makes Your Atlanta Home Healthier and More Comfortable

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

“It’s not the heat. It’s the humidity.” We’ve all heard that before. And in Atlanta we live it every summer. But high indoor humidity can be a problem in cooler seasons too, especially spring.

April Showers Bring… Poor Indoor Air Quality

In the summertime, we depend on our air conditioning systems to keep our homes cool and comfortable. It does this by removing both heat and excess humidity. But in the spring, the temperatures outside are often not high enough to justify running the AC. And that means no humidity control.

Those cooler temperatures combined with spring rains can leave your home feeling damp and clammy. Along with being uncomfortable, excess humidity creates a host of indoor air quality problems :

It promotes the growth of mold and mildew
Unpleasant odors persist for longer
Dust, pollen, and other allergens cling more tightly to surfaces, including bedding and furniture
It provides the right conditions for dust mites to thrive

For people with allergies or other respiratory conditions, most of these humidity-related problems can make their conditions worse.

Spring – and Summer – Benefits of a Whole-House Dehumidifier

A whole-house dehumidifier removes excess moisture before it can saturate the air and permeate porous or absorbent materials, such as rugs and upholstery. The result is healthier indoor air quality and a more comfortable home, even when it’s too early to turn on the AC system.

But there’s no reason to stop using the dehumidifier once the temperatures rise and you’re running the air conditioner around the clock. Even though AC systems remove moisture from the air, Atlanta’s notorious humidity can be a challenge. A whole-house dehumidifier:

Shares the burden of dealing with high humidity, reducing strain on the AC system
Enables you to achieve indoor comfort at a higher thermostat setting
Rids your home of excess moisture that’s beyond your AC’s capacity

Work with a Qualified Atlanta HVAC Company

The best way to ensure you get the right whole-house dehumidifier for your home is to work with an experienced, licensed heating and cooling company. Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves homeowners from Alpharetta and Atlanta to Waleska and White – and all points in between. Schedule an appointment today .

The post A Whole-House Dehumidifier Makes Your Atlanta Home Healthier and More Comfortable appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Considering a Heat Pump for Your North Atlanta Home? Look for the Energy Star Logo.

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

No doubt, you’ve seen the Energy Star logo that appears on products like consumer electronics and household appliances, including HVAC systems. There may even have been one on the packaging and literature for your current air conditioning unit and furnace.

If you’re thinking about replacing your conventional heating and cooling system with a heat pump , it is more important than ever to make sure it bears the Energy Star logo.

Energy Star, the IRA, and Big Heat Pump Rebates

Energy Star tests and labels products that meet or exceed certain energy-efficiency standards. The labeling enables North Atlanta homeowners to identify and compare energy-efficient HVAC equipment that will lower their energy consumption and utility bills, as well as reduce the environmental impact of home heating and cooling.

For heat pumps, in particular, the labeling is essential for benefitting from the Inflation Reduction Act. In order to qualify for the IRA’s hefty rebates and tax credits , the heat pump you choose must be Energy Star certified.

3 Terms to Know When Shopping for an Energy-Efficient Heat Pump

Three key measures are used to determine the efficiency of heat pumps and other HVAC equipment:

SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio
EER, energy efficiency ratio
HSPF, heating season performance factor

SEER and EER are measures of cooling efficiency, and HSPF specifies heating efficiency. The higher the number for each of these, the more efficient a heat pump is, making it easy to compare different heat pumps. At a glance, you can tell that a heat pump with a SEER of 15, an EER of 12, and an HSPF of 10 is more energy efficient than one with a SEER of 13, an EER of 10, and an HSPF of 8.

A New Energy Star Twist for HVAC in 2023

As we rang in the new year, the Energy Star program rolled out a kind of 2.0 for HVAC efficiency, based on new testing procedures. The new version still uses the same three measures, but these will now appear as SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2. The 2 tells you that the efficiency of the heat pump was evaluated using the new testing procedures.

While this is good news for improved efficiency, it makes comparisons based on the three efficiency measures a bit tricky. For example, a SEER of 15 is not the same as a SEER 2 of 15. In other words, you can’t directly compare the efficiency of a heat pump that uses the original version with one that uses the new version.

Work with a Qualified North Atlanta HVAC Company

The best way to ensure you select the right heat pump – and can take advantage of the generous IRA incentives – is to work with an experienced licensed heating and cooling company.

At Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing, our sales process is designed for you to make an informed decision, so you can trust that you’re selecting the right heat pump for your budget and your North Atlanta home. Schedule an appointment today .

The post Considering a Heat Pump for Your North Atlanta Home? Look for the Energy Star Logo. appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta HVAC Efficiency: The IRA Makes Heat Pumps Affordable for All Homeowners

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 08:30:00 GMT

State-of-the-art energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment is often out of reach for homeowners with low or moderate income. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which includes substantial rebates and tax credits for high-efficiency heat pumps and other energy-efficiency upgrades, is a game-changer for these households.

Hooray for HEEHRA – the Incentive Program for Switching to a Heat Pump
HEEHRA, or the High Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act, is the part of the IRA that provides income-based incentives for the purchase and installation of electric appliances, including heat pumps for home heating and cooling . The three tiers of incentive are as follows:

Low Income: 100% rebate up to $8000
Middle Income: 50% rebate up to $8000
High Income: 30% tax credit up to $2000

This means that many low-income households would pay absolutely nothing for a brand-new high-efficiency heat pump. To sweeten the incentive, the rebate applies at the point of sale, meaning the homeowner does not have to lay out the money and then wait for the rebate payment.

What’s more, HEEHRA also includes rebates of up to $4000 for home electrical upgrades, which could be necessary when using a heat pump, especially in older homes.

The Many Benefits of a Heat Pump
Reaping hefty savings from the IRA is not the only reason to heat and cool your Atlanta home with a heat pump. Compared with a traditional AC unit and gas or oil furnace, a heat pump:

Lowers Utility Bills : Heat pumps are significantly more energy-efficient than furnaces, which means lower utility bills.
Improves Indoor Air Quality : Many heat pumps have dehumidifying and air-filtering capabilities to improve air quality in the heating and cooling seasons.
Makes Less Noise : Heat pumps run more quietly than AC compressors and furnaces.
Reduces Use of Fossil Fuels : Whereas a furnace burns fuel to produce heat, a heat pump uses electricity and a refrigerant to extract thermal energy from outdoors and pump it indoors.

For more information on the energy-efficient HVAC upgrades you can make in your Atlanta home , reach out to Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

The post <strong>Atlanta HVAC Efficiency: The IRA Makes Heat Pumps Affordable for All Homeowners</strong> appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta Heat Pump Tip: Emergency Heat and What to Expect After a Power Outage

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 08:30:00 GMT

It’s cold outside, but you’re nice and toasty inside thanks to your energy efficient heat pump – then the power goes out. Of course, the heat pump is no longer running, but will it start right back up when the power is restored?

The answer is yes, but it might not be able deliver heat right away, like a gas or electric furnace would. It depends on how cold it is outside and how long the power is out.

If the outage is brief (less than a half-hour) and the outdoor temperature is in the high 30s or above, your heat pump should begin heating your home as soon as the power comes back on. But if the power outage is longer and the outdoor temperature is colder than 35 °F, the refrigerant might be too cold to flow freely. In this case, the refrigerant will need to be warmed up before your heat pump can resume heating your home.

That’s where emergency heat comes in.

Understanding the Functions of the Emergency Heat Setting

The emergency setting, usually abbreviated EM on the thermostat, is designed into a heat pump for two main reasons.

One is to activate your backup heating system when temperatures are too cold for a heat pump to operate efficiently. At temperatures approaching or below freezing, it is more energy efficient for a gas- or electricity-powered backup system to heat your home. Once the outdoor temperature warms up, the heat pump will take over again.

The other function of emergency heat comes into play when the refrigerant is too cold to flow. In this case, the emergency heat setting enables the heat pump’s compressor to bring the refrigerant back up to operating temperature. And once that temperature is reached, your heat pump will resume keeping your Atlanta home warm and comfortable.

Manual vs. Automatic EM

If you ever face the situation where the refrigerant is too cold after an outage, it’s helpful to know beforehand how to activate the emergency heat. With an older heat pump, it is likely that you’ll need to manually set the thermostat to EM. In newer models, the emergency heat will usually start automatically. These are, of course, general guidelines, and we recommend you consult the owner’s manual for your specific model.

Questions about installing or operating a heat pump in your Atlanta home? Ask the HVAC experts at Comfort Zone . We provide homeowners in Atlanta and surrounding areas with knowledgeable service, economical heating and cooling options, and guidance you can trust.

The post Atlanta Heat Pump Tip: Emergency Heat and What to Expect After a Power Outage appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta Air Conditioning Installation: 4 Reasons to Consider the Ductless Mini-Split

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

A ductless mini-split is a type of HVAC system that, as its name implies, doesn’t require the ductwork used with traditional HVAC systems. The mini-split is an especially popular choice in new construction because it provides outstanding energy efficiency while eliminating the need for big, bulky ductwork.

Even if your Atlanta home is older, with existing ductwork, you may still want to consider installing a ductless mini-split system.

Top 4 Reasons to Install a Mini-Split

Energy efficiency: Ductless mini splits boast substantially higher SEERs than their conventional central air counterparts. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is an estimate of cooling efficiency over the course of the cooling season. While SEER is not the only factor that determines the energy efficiency of an AC system, it is a valuable tool for comparing different systems.
Indoor air quality: HVAC ducts harbor dust, mold , pollen, dander, and other debris that has built up inside the home. As air blows through the ductwork, it stirs up the debris and circulates back into your living spaces. By bypassing the ductwork, ductless mini-split systems can improve your indoor air quality. This is a great benefit for people with allergies and respiratory conditions.
Zone control: Unlike a conventional cooling system, the mini-split allows you to create different zones in your home. The temperature in each zone can be controlled individually, so you can keep the rooms you’re using comfortable, while not wasting excessive cooling in rooms that aren’t being used.
Complete heating and cooling: Many mini-splits also have heat pump capabilities and can provide warm air in the winter, as well as cool air in the summer.

Talk to a Reputable Atlanta HVAC Company to Learn If a Mini-Split Works for You

In the right situation, a mini-split can be a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing can help you determine if installing one in your home is a smart choice for you.

The post Atlanta Air Conditioning Installation: 4 Reasons to Consider the Ductless Mini-Split appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

How to Keep Your Business Up and Running During Commercial HVAC Service

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:00:00 GMT

The pandemic has been disruptive enough. No business in Atlanta or North Georgia wants further disruption because their commercial HVAC system needs repairs, maintenance, or replacement . While it may seem like there is never a good time for the work to be done, there are ways to minimize the impact on your normal business operations and the comfort of your customers and employees.

4 Strategies for Making Commercial HVAC Service More Convenient

Work with a qualified contractor who offers flexible scheduling. Commercial HVAC contractors and repair technicians serve all different types of businesses with all different hours of operation. Having HVAC repairs done during the daytime may be convenient for a nightclub but not for a daycare facility. Look for an HVAC company that may be able to accommodate your off-hours.
Don’t ignore warning signs. If you see signs that trouble may be brewing with your HVAC system, it’s best to be proactive and schedule a service call for it to be checked out. Otherwise, you could be looking at an emergency repair at the most inconvenient time.
Schedule HVAC maintenance during the heating and cooling off-seasons. HVAC preventive maintenance requires that your system be shut down. You can keep employees and customers comfortable by having maintenance done in the spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate and going without air conditioning or heating during the maintenance is not a problem.
Consider a rooftop HVAC unit. When it comes time to replace an aging split HVAC system, consider installing a rooftop package unit. With this type of HVAC system, the evaporator and the condenser are housed in one cabinet that sits on the roof. Since the major components are outside, an HVAC technician can perform repairs and maintenance with minimal disruption to staff and customers. And, as an added bonus, you free up some extra room in your workspace.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing Respects Your Space

When your business – or home – needs HVAC repairs and maintenance or installation of a new heating and cooling system, you can count on Comfort Zone to do the job right – and that includes treating your space like it was our own. Contact us for your next commercial HVAC service.

The post How to Keep Your Business Up and Running During Commercial HVAC Service appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta Indoor Air-Quality Tip: How to Improve Allergy Symptoms by Enhancing Your HVAC System

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

The air quality in your Atlanta home can be far worse than the air outside. For allergy sufferers, this leads to increased symptoms and decreased comfort.

Along with good housekeeping, such as preventing mold growth and dust build-up, your HVAC system is an important part of your allergy relief toolkit – and it’s not because of its heating and cooling ability. Modern HVAC equipment can also provide enhanced filtration, humidity control, air purification, and ventilation – each of which contributes to better indoor air quality .

Filtration: Today’s air filtration systems combat indoor air pollution by trapping a wide range of airborne allergens and other particles, some as small as 0.3 microns. (For comparison, a medium grain of sand is about 250 microns.) Once trapped by the filter, the particles can no longer circulate back into your home’s air.

Whole-House Humidity Control: Humidity control can include both a dehumidifier, for the summer months, and a humidifier, for the winter months. While humidity itself is not an allergen, improper humidity levels can contribute to allergy symptoms. For example, dry indoor air during the winter irritates the respiratory tract, and humid summer air encourages the growth of mold and mildew spores.

Indoor Air Purification: A whole-house air purifier integrates into the heating and cooling system where it uses UV light to deactivate mold, bacteria , and other contaminants before they can recirculate into the air.

Enhanced Ventilation: Building materials and consumer products may include chemicals that are allergens or that aggravate allergy symptoms.Enhanced ventilation can lessen their impact by continually refreshing indoor air, which is especially important in homes that are sealed nearly air-tight. In addition to exchanging contaminated indoor air with fresh outdoor air, enhanced ventilation equipment also helps regulate indoor humidity levels.

Which indoor air quality solution is right for you and your family?

Each of the air quality components discussed integrates into new or existing HVAC systems. The solution that is best for your situation depends on conditions in your home and the allergies you or a family member suffers from.

A trusted HVAC professional can help you find an effective and affordable solution for improving the air in your Atlanta home, whether it’s adding a single component or opting for a full array of air-quality improvement equipment .

The post Atlanta Indoor Air-Quality Tip: How to Improve Allergy Symptoms by Enhancing Your HVAC System appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta Heating Guide: Troubleshooting 4 Common Heat Pump Problems + Our Military Discount on Repairs

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Atlanta’s relatively mild winters make a heat pump a great alternative to the traditional split heating and cooling systems. While there are advantages to heating and cooling your home with a single system, heat pumps, like any mechanical system, may occasionally experience some problems.

4 Common Heat Pump Problems & How to Troubleshoot Them

Some of the most common issues seen with heat pumps can be simple to diagnose. Here are some troubleshooting tips that can help you discover or rule out the source of the problem.

No Heat. If you are not getting any heat, there are two things you can try before calling for heat pump repair.
- Check the thermostat. It’s possible that the temperature was accidentally set too low. If that’s the case, simply raise the temperature and see if the heat pump kicks in.
- Press the “Reset” button. Sometimes no heat is caused by a disruption to the power supply. Press the “Reset” button on the power supply. If that does not restore heat, the problem should be checked out by a heating and cooling professional.
Insufficient Heating. This is when the heat pump is working but the indoor air temperature does not reach the temperature set on the thermostat. The cause can be due to a mechanical issue or to weather.
- Mechanical causes. A problem with a heat pump component or with the thermostat sensor can account for insufficient heating.
- Unusually cold weather. Heat pumps, unlike traditional gas or electric furnaces , produce heat by extracting thermal energy (aka heat) from the outside air. When outdoor temperatures are consistently below freezing for an extended period, there isn’t enough thermal energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. You may need to use a supplemental heat source during cold spells.
Excessive Noise. Heat pumps are generally designed to run very quietly. If yours is making odd noises, it could be because of something as simple as loose screws or nuts and bolts.
- Check for any obvious loose connections. Tighten screws or nuts and bolts only if you know for sure that you won’t cause your equipment or yourself any harm.
- Ask your HVAC contractor about their maintenance routine . You’ll want to verify that they inspect and tighten all connections and fittings during your annual heat pump maintenance.
Frozen Heat Pump. Any number of things may cause a frosted or frozen heat pump, ranging from the very simple to the more serious. It’s always smart to look for the simplest explanations first.
- Check your air filter. Believe it or not, a dirty air filter is the most common cause of a frozen heat pump. A clogged filter restricts airflow, leading to moisture build-up and then to frosting. So, check and change your filter regularly.
- Check gutters for leaks or overflow. If it is contacting the outside unit of your heat pump, water dripping or overflowing from the gutter can also cause a heat pump to freeze. Be sure to keep gutters free of debris and watch for any signs of leaking.

Need Heat Pump Repair?

Ask about our military and senior discount.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides honest heat pump diagnostics, reliable repairs, and fair prices. And if you’re a veteran, active service member, or a senior citizen, you’ll enjoy a 10% discount on repairs. Visit our Promotions page to learn more .

The post Atlanta Heating Guide: Troubleshooting 4 Common Heat Pump Problems + Our Military Discount on Repairs appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Poor Indoor Air Quality Can Be a Problem Even for Healthy People

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 09:00:00 GMT

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the air in your home can have pollution concentrations that are two to five times greater than the air outside. While people (and pets) with allergies, asthma, or other underlying illnesses are especially vulnerable to the ill effects of indoor pollutants, poor indoor air quality can also compromise the health and comfort of otherwise healthy individuals.

6 Common Indoor Air Quality Problems

Airborne Particles: Dust, pets, smoke, and vehicle exhaust entering from an attached garage are just some of the sources of airborne particles that can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation.
Odors and Gases: Ordinary activities like cooking, painting, and even having pets, produce gases and odors that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs.
Ozone: This irritant can come from the outdoors as well as from indoor sources such as printers, copiers, and air fresheners. Ozone can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and throat irritation.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Fireplaces, candles, and gas stoves – anything involving combustion – are all common sources of indoor CO2. Prolonged exposure can cause fatigue and mental fogginess.
Formaldehyde: Used in the manufacture of common household items, such as building materials, fabrics, cosmetics, and cleaning products, formaldehyde outgases at room temperature and circulates through the air. It can cause skin, eye, nose, and throat irritation and, with prolonged exposure, may be linked to some types of cancers.
Humidity: When indoor humidity is too low, the result can be dry, itchy skin. When it’s too high, the conditions are right for mold growth, which can aggravate allergies and respiratory conditions.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions for Your Atlanta Home

Innovations in HVAC have come a long way, going beyond basic heating and cooling and increased energy efficiency. Today, homeowners have a range of options in HVAC equipment focused on indoor air quality .

Daikin, for example, offers solutions that detect, measure, and track the most common indoor air quality problems and then combat them through:

Ventilation
Filtration
Purification
Humidity Control

Each of the technologies is designed to integrate with a central heating and cooling system. If you are looking for ways to breathe easier and feel more comfortable in your Atlanta home, contact Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing . The HVAC experts at Comfort Zone are ready to help you select the right solutions for your home’s indoor air quality problems.

The post Poor Indoor Air Quality Can Be a Problem Even for Healthy People appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Top 5 Reasons to Always Replace Your Split AC System As a Whole

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 08:30:00 GMT

No one wants to spend more money than they have to on an air conditioning system. So, when either the indoor or outdoor unit of a split AC system is beyond repair, it may be tempting to replace only the failed unit. However, there are 5 very good reasons to replace both at the same time.

1. Indoor and Outdoor AC Units Have a Similar Lifespan

When one unit of your AC system fails due to age, the other is not far behind. Chances are that soon after you’ve bought and installed the replacement for the failed outdoor unit, for example, you will be repeating the process for the indoor unit.

2. AC Technology is Always Improving

If either of the units of your AC system has reached the end of its usefulness, chances are the system is at the very least 10 years old. In that time, air conditioning systems on the market have greatly improved in efficiency, noise reduction, and overall quality. By replacing just the failed unit, you will not reap the benefits of these improvements.

3. The Indoor and Outdoor AC Units Are Designed to Work Together

Even though the indoor and outdoor units are separated from each other, they are designed as a matched system. This means that optimal performance and efficiency can be achieved only when the two units work together.

By replacing just one unit, the efficiency and performance – possibly even the lifespan – of both units will be reduced. The mismatched units may also make AC tune-ups, preventative maintenance, and repairs more difficult and costly.

4. An AC Warranty is for Both Units

When you replace your AC system as a whole, both the indoor and outdoor units are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. When you replace only one unit, you will still be on the hook for repair costs for the older one. Furthermore, the system mismatch could limit or void the warranty on the new, replacement unit.

5. You Will Save Money By Replacing the Whole AC System

It is true that your initial cost will be lower if you replace only the failed unit. However, when you factor in such considerations as reduced efficiency and performance, repair and maintenance complications, and the possible impact on the manufacturer’s warranty, you’ll find that replacing your split AC system as a whole is the less expensive way to go.

Need help finding an affordable option for replacing the AC system in your North Georgia home? The HVAC pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing are ready to give you guidance you can trust .

The post Top 5 Reasons to Always Replace Your Split AC System As a Whole appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

How Heat Pump Reversing Valves Work

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:59:00 GMT

A growing number of Atlanta homes use a heat pump for year-round heating and cooling , instead of the conventional furnace and air conditioner we’re all familiar with. Yet, some people still consider using separate heating and cooling systems to be their only option. In part, this may be due to skepticism that a single system can both heat and cool your home.

So, how is a heat pump able to provide year-round indoor comfort? It all hinges on a mechanism called the reversing valve. To understand the role of the reversing valve, it’s helpful to first understand the basics of how a heat pump operates.

How a Heat Pump Cools Your Home

A heat pump cools indoor air much the same way as a conventional air conditioning unit. Both contain a refrigerant that absorbs heat (or thermal energy) from the air inside. The captured heat is then pumped outdoors, leaving the air inside cooler.

How a Heat Pump Heats Your Home

Unlike a conventional heating system, which uses electricity or burns a fuel to produce heat, a heat pump operates the same way it does to cool your home, but in reverse. In other words, it uses the same refrigerant to absorb thermal energy from the outside air and then pumps the captured heat indoors.

Think of the Reversing Valve as a Switch

The reversing valve in a heat pump switches the process between heating and cooling. Through a control board or a thermostat, the reversing valve controls whether heat is absorbed from the inside air and pumped outside or absorbed from the outside air and pumped inside. It is the mechanism that enables a single system to keep your Atlanta home comfortable throughout both the heating and the cooling seasons.

Ready to learn more about heat pumps?

The Atlanta HVAC experts at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing can help you decide if a heat pump is a good choice for you. Contact us today .

The post How Heat Pump Reversing Valves Work appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta HVAC Guide: What Exactly Is an Electronic Air Filter and Is It Right for You?

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Chances are you use disposable air filters in your forced air HVAC system. These are far and away the most popular types, but there is a reusable option: electronic filters. And, no, they don’t require a power source to operate, as the name might suggest.

Disposable vs. Electronic Filters: How They Work

Whether flat or pleated, you can think of disposable HVAC air filters working much like a simple screen on a window. Particles that are larger than the pores of the filter material get trapped on or within the filter and are prevented from passing through to the blower motor. But particles that are smaller than the pores can flow right through. Whatever the MERV rating , disposable filters work on this basic screening principle.

In contrast, you can think of electronic filters as working kind of like a magnet. When air passes through the filter material, it creates an electrostatic charge that attracts and holds onto airborne particles, such as dust and pet dander. (Remember the trick when you were a kid where you would rub a balloon and stick it to a wall? That’s an electrostatic charge at work.)

Like disposable filters, electronic – or electrostatic – air filters vary in MERV rating.

Is Switching to an Electrostatic Air Filter a Good Choice for You?

If you’re like the many Atlanta homeowners who are looking for eco-friendlier alternatives to the everyday things we use, switching to a reusable electrostatic filter may sound like a no-brainer. However, we want you to be aware of the pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision.

The Top 3 Upsides of an Electronic Filter

A single filter can last 7 or more years. (Disposable filters need to be changed every 4 to 6 weeks.)
Over its lifespan, a reusable filter costs far less than disposable filters.
It’s a more eco-friendly alternative.

The Top 3 Downsides

An electronic filter needs to be washed every 4 weeks.
Drying time can take 15 to 30 minutes.
When not thoroughly cleaned and dried, the filter can become a breeding ground for bacteria and molds .

If you still have questions about electronic air filters, talk to your HVAC tech at your next heating or cooling service, or get in touch with us by phone, email, or chat.

The post Atlanta HVAC Guide: What Exactly Is an Electronic Air Filter and Is It Right for You? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

North Atlanta HVAC Tip: Why Routine HVAC Maintenance Improves Indoor Air Quality

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Did you know the air in your home is only as clean as your heating system? That’s especially true if you have a forced-air furnace with ductwork. To understand how your heating system affects the quality of the air you and your family (including pets!) breathe in, it helps to take a quick look at how air travels through the system.

HVAC Airflow 101

Every heating cycle starts with the heater’s fan sucking in air from the rooms in your home. But it also sucks in dust and other impurities, like pet dander, smoke, and even bacteria and mold spores. The air, and everything in it, travels through ductwork and passes through the HVAC filter before entering the “business end” of the furnace, where it is heated.

The fan then blows the warmed air through more ductwork, delivering it back to your living space through your vents. You might think this warm air is free of impurities because it went through the furnace filter. Unfortunately, that’s not really the case.

No Furnace Filter Captures All Contaminants

You are probably familiar with the MERV number that appears on furnace filters. As the MERV number increases, so does the ability of the filter to capture smaller and smaller particles. Impurities that the filter does not capture travel into the heater and the ductwork that carries the warmed air. Some of these impurities settle in the heater and ducts; others get blown back into your home.

You can imagine how all those contaminants build up in your heater, ductwork, and furnace filter over time. So, how do you keep your indoor air healthy for you and your loved ones? Four simple steps go a long way in improving indoor air quality.

4 Steps Toward Better Indoor Air Quality

Use the highest MERV number that works with your furnace . It’s important that the MERV number of the filter you use is right for your furnace. Too high a MERV can compromise proper functioning of your heating system. Check the manual for your furnace, or consult with a qualified HVAC professional.
Change your air filter regularly. We recommend changing the air filter every 4 to 6 weeks. If you’ve had work done in your home that creates dust and debris, such as a remodeling project or refinishing wood floors, you should change the filter as soon as the work is complete.
Have professional furnace maintenance done once a year. Along with a heating tune-up and safety check, Comfort Zone’s furnace maintenance includes cleaning. This not only takes care of debris that has built up, it also helps your heater run more efficiently.
Ask your HVAC tech about duct cleaning. House-cleaning habits aside, some homes are more contaminant prone than others. The age of a home, type of building materials, and setting (urban, suburban, or rural) can all have an impact. When you’re having your furnace maintenance done, talk to your tech about whether duct cleaning makes sense for your home.

Haven’t done your annual heating tune-up yet? It’s never too late. Schedule your heating tune-up today.

The post North Atlanta HVAC Tip: Why Routine HVAC Maintenance Improves Indoor Air Quality appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Are Heat Pumps a Good Heating & Cooling Option in Atlanta? (Spoiler: Yes!)

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 09:00:00 GMT

A re Heat Pumps a Good Heating & Cooling Option in Atlanta? (Spoiler: Yes!)

Homeowners throughout Atlanta – and all North Georgia – have options beyond the familiar air conditioner and furnace combination for year-round indoor comfort. In fact, according to Georgia Power, about half of all Georgia homes use a heat pump.

What exactly is a heat pump?

A heat pump is a single system that both heats and cools your indoor space. For cooling, it works much like a traditional air conditioner. It moves, or pumps, hot indoor air over a refrigerant, which absorbs the heat and cools the air. It then circulates this cool air into your home.

The way it heats, however, is very different from a traditional furnace. Instead of producing heat by burning a fuel, such as natural gas or propane, the heat pump pulls out thermal energy (aka heat) from the outdoor air and pumps it into your home. While a heat pump is not a good heating choice for areas that have long, cold winters, like the upper Midwest, it can be a great option in our Atlanta climate.

Why the ductless mini-split is a popular type of heat pump in Atlanta homes.

While there are different types of heat pumps, the ductless mini-split offers flexibility and a customizable heating and cooling experience, as well as other benefits.

No Ductwork Needed . Unlike with forced-air heating and cooling systems, the ductless mini-split does not use ductwork. This eliminates a significant source of conditioned air loss and saves space, not to mention ridding your home of unsightly ducts. We encourage anyone who is building a new home to consider going ductless.
Perfect for Bonus Rooms and Additions. A ductless mini-split can heat and cool an entire home, but you don’t have to use it that way. The ductless heat pump is an ideal solution for conditioning the air year-round in bonus rooms and in additions when those extra spaces put too great a load on your current central heating and cooling system.
Zone Control for Better Comfort and Lower Energy Bills. With a mini-split, your home can be divided into different heating and cooling zones, each with its own thermostat. This maximizes comfort and energy efficiency because you can control the temperature in each zone according to your needs.

Is a ductless mini-split right for your Atlanta home?

Whether you’re needing to replace your traditional heating and cooling system, building a new home, or putting on an addition, it might make sense to go with a ductless mini-split heat pump. A Comfort Zone heating and cooling professional can help you determine if it’s a cost-effective solution for your home. And if it is, you can trust that Comfort Zone will install your new heat pump system properly, so you can enjoy extraordinary comfort and energy efficiency.

Check out our video for a quick intro to the ductless mini-split heat pump

The post Are Heat Pumps a Good Heating & Cooling Option in Atlanta? (Spoiler: Yes!) appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta AC Tip: Why You Need AC Preventive Maintenance

Tue, 12 May 2020 09:00:00 GMT

It’s so easy not to give your air conditioner a single thought – that is until something goes wrong. Then you have no choice but to call for AC repair. Along with the expense of the service call and repair, an AC breakdown means enduring Atlanta’s heat and humidity until you’re back up and running.

And since it will likely cost more to fix your AC than to prevent the problem in the first place, you’re essentially paying extra to be uncomfortable. Annual preventive maintenance is the single best way to avoid this unpleasant situation.

Preventive Maintenance Reduces the Risk of AC Breakdowns

Professional preventive AC maintenance, or AC tune-up, provides many benefits. Just like with a tune-up for your car, an AC tune-up ensures your system is operating properly, safely, and efficiently. When done regularly, once each year, preventive maintenance:

Reduces the chance of an AC breakdown
Extends the life of your AC system
Lowers electricity use by ensuring peak efficiency

Any professional maintenance service should include, at a minimum:

Checking refrigerant level
Checking for refrigerant leaks
Checking ductwork for air leaks
Inspection of electrical components
Measuring airflow over the evaporator coil
Checking belts for wear and proper tension

Early detection and correction of minor issues in any of these areas is key to preventing an expensive major breakdown in the middle of a hot Atlanta summer. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Does Your Atlanta HVAC Company Offer a Maintenance Program?

When you’re ready to schedule your AC tune-up this season, ask your Atlanta HVAC company about their maintenance plan – a program that should ideally make preventive maintenance even more cost-effective. Then see how it stacks up against our plan, the Comfort Club.

The Comfort Club provides annual preventive maintenance for both your AC and heating system, along with other member benefits, such as:

Preferred-customer treatment: Service within 24 hours of your call
$25 service calls (regularly $79 during the day and $99 after hours)
20% discount on parts
5-year warranty on our labor and parts we’ve installed so long as membership is continuously in effect

Once you check out the complete Comfort Club details , we think you’ll agree that it’s the smart way to go.

The post Atlanta AC Tip: Why You Need AC Preventive Maintenance appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

In Atlanta, It’s Both the Heat and the Humidity

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Do You Need a Whole-House Dehumidifier in Atlanta?

You wouldn’t dream of getting through an Atlanta summer without air conditioning. However, it takes more than beating the heat to keep your home comfortable. High indoor humidity can sabotage your comfort even when your AC is cooling to the desired temperature.

While your AC does remove some moisture from the air, it may not be enough given Atlanta’s humid climate.

The problem with high indoor humidity

According to the EPA, the ideal humidity level for a home in Atlanta during the summer is between 40 and 50 percent. At higher levels, the excess moisture can cause several problems.

Poor
Comfort. High humidity makes your home feel damp and smell musty. It also
impedes your ability to perspire, which is your body’s way of cooling off.
Overuse
of AC. When excessive humidity compromises indoor comfort, many people
crank up the AC. This does little to correct the moisture problem while
unnecessarily raising electric bills.
Aggravation
of Health Conditions. Mold, mildew , bacteria, and dust mites thrive in
moist conditions, which poses health risks for anyone with allergies, asthma,
and other respiratory illnesses.
Damage to
Property. Prolonged excessive humidity can lead to mold and mildew growing
on walls and ceilings, as well as bedding and furniture.

Signs of high humidity in your home

It is possible to measure the humidity level in your home. Some smart thermostats have this capability. You can also purchase a device called a hygrometer at most hardware stores. However, the signs of a humidity problem are often noticeable without needing to know a precise measurement.

You notice wet spots on walls or ceilings that
are not due to a leak.
Windows in rooms other than the bathroom and
kitchen fog up.
Condensate – or little drops of water – forms on
pipes.
You have a mold or mildew problem in rooms that
do not have plumbing.
You keep lowering the thermostat in the summer
(or raising it in the winter) in an effort to make your home more comfortable.

The benefits of a whole-house dehumidifier

A whole-house dehumidifier draws the humid air from every room in your home through the ductwork. After removing the moisture, it sends the dry air back to be circulated through the entire house. The benefits of a whole-house dehumidifier, when properly sized and installed, include:

Better Humidity Control. Compared with room dehumidifiers, a
whole-house dehumidifier, as its name implies, reduces moisture throughout the
entire home, not just in certain rooms.
Better Energy Efficiency. It uses less electricity than an air
conditioner, making it both the more effective and more energy-efficient
solution.
4-Season Humidity Control. High indoor humidity can be a
year-round problem for many homes in Atlanta,
even in t h e winter . While a whole-house dehumidifier integrates with your
existing heating and cooling system, it can be used anytime, regardless of
whether you’re running your AC or heater.

Questions about dehumidifier selection and installation? Summer is not far off, so now’s a great time to consider a whole-house dehumidifier. The HVAC pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing are ready to help you achieve the ideal humidity – and comfort – level in your home. Reach us by phone, online chat, or email .

The post In Atlanta, It’s Both the Heat and the Humidity appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Is Your AC Blowing Mold into Your Home?

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Is Your AC Blowing Mold and Bacteria into Your Home?

You probably don’t realize it, but the inside of your air conditioner is a pretty wet place. Along with heat, air conditioners remove excess moisture from the air. The moist air condenses into water as it passes over the evaporator coil and collects in the AC drip pan. The condensate pump then pumps the water outside or into a drain that connects to a sewer line.

The problem with AC condensate and indoor air quality

AC condensate, coupled with North Georgia’s high humidity, provides the perfect conditions for mold, mildew, bacteria, and even algae to grow. And each time the AC blower fan kicks on, these micro-organisms circulate through the ductwork and into the air you breathe.

For family members with allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses, airborne molds and bacteria can aggravate their condition. And if concentrations are high enough, they can also cause respiratory symptoms in otherwise healthy people. So, it’s important to understand that HVAC air filters are not effective in capturing these micro-organisms.

Shedding (UV) light on how to prevent an overgrowth of mold and bacteria

Ultraviolet, or UV, light has long been used in hospitals, laboratories, and industrial applications to kill harmful molds, bacteria, and viruses. It is also effective in the home, and UV air
purifiers are widely available for installation in existing AC systems.

In addition to aggravating respiratory disorders, excessive build-up of organic matter, like mold and mildew, can cause problems with your air conditioner. For example, the condensate drain line can become clogged, resulting in water backing up and flooding onto the floor.

The advantages of a UV air purifier include:

The elimination of harmful airborne micro-organisms, for better
indoor air quality and better health of your family
Lower risk of AC malfunction due to excessive
build-up of mold, bacteria, and other micro-organisms
Reduced frequency of air duct cleaning

Is a UV air purifier right for your home?

We recommend installing a UV air purifier if:

Anyone in your family has a chronic or serious
respiratory condition.
Your HVAC technician found excessive build-up of
organic matter during routine maintenance or an AC repair.
Your home suffers from “dirty sock syndrome”; in
other words, you get a whiff of something that smells like dirty socks when
your AC comes on. This is a sign of mold and bacteria in the evaporator coil.

Questions about UV light installation?

The HVAC pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing are happy to answer all of your questions about UV air purifiers. You can reach us by phone, online chat, or email .

The post Is Your AC Blowing Mold into Your Home? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

4 Signs There’s a Problem with Your Home’s Ductwork

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 21:16:00 GMT

There’s more to maintaining indoor comfort than a home’s furnace and air conditioner. In a forced-air HVAC system, even the best, most efficient heating and cooling units can’t do the job well if there’s a problem with the air ducts. Leaks, physical damage, and improper ductwork sizing can all have a negative impact on the air quality and indoor comfort of your home.

Here are four signs your ductwork may need attention.

Dusty home – Excessive dust despite regular house cleaning is often a sign of leaky ducts. Holes in the air ducts or leaks at duct joints allow dirt and dust to get in the ductwork. The dirt and dust are then blown throughout the home each time your HVAC’s system fan goes on.

Aside from being a housekeeping burden, excessive dust can aggravate respiratory problems as well as damage heating and cooling equipment.

Uneven heating and cooling – Are some areas of your home consistently colder in the winter and hotter in the summer than others? If the problem has existed for as long as you can remember, it’s likely due to inadequate ductwork. If the problem is new, recent damage to ductwork may be the cause.
Noisy central air system – If it gets noisy whenever your furnace or AC comes on, chances are your ductwork is undersized.
Unreasonably high energy usage – Leaks, poor design, and inadequate sizing can cause ductwork to distribute conditioned air to places where you don’t need or want it to go, such as the attic. This means your HVAC system works harder to maintain comfortable temperatures, which in turn drives up your energy consumption.

If you have any of these problems, call in an HVAC pro.

A reputable, licensed heating and cooling professional knows how to inspect and test ductwork and will be able to recommend the best course of action. The solution may be to replace all or part of the ductwork or it might simply require a repair. Either way, your HVAC equipment and indoor comfort will benefit.

Comfort Zone’s Travis Hoffmeier explains the importance of properly functioning ductwork.

The post 4 Signs There’s a Problem with Your Home’s Ductwork appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

What should I ask my service technician during a maintenance visit?

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 20:45:00 GMT

You should schedule maintenance visits twice a year. HVAC units that receive regular maintenance have been shown to operate up to 40% more efficiently than systems that don’t, as well as being 90% less likely to develop problems in the future. It is absolutely in your best interest to schedule preventative maintenance.

These visits also present great opportunities for you to bring up any concerns you might have. Asking the right questions will help you make the most of your system throughout the year.

What’s that noise?

Among the most easily recognizable symptoms of an air conditioner or furnace problem are odd noises. Whether they’re new or recurring, your maintenance visit is the time for you to discuss them with your tech and get some clarification. In most cases, the noise you are hearing is perfectly normal, but in others, early detection leads to cheaper repairs.

How can I improve my indoor air quality?

If you suffer from allergies, indoor air quality can dramatically affect your level of comfort and health. If you improve the quality of the indoor air, you’ll enjoy your home more, as well as increase its value. Talk to your service technician about your concerns and symptoms. You may benefit from upgrading the air filter on your system or adding other air quality devices such as an air purifier or a dehumidifier. These products can go a long way to ensuring that your indoor air is clean and pure of allergens.

How do I save on energy costs?

As we transition from summer to fall, the cost of heating and cooling your house may rise due to fluctuating temperatures. Factors that may be driving your energy costs up include old thermostats , dirty vents, poor installation and blocked vents. Your technician can evaluate your home and offer valuable suggestions to keep your energy costs low.

In this era of busy schedules, it’s a constant temptation to postpone tasks that don’t require immediate attention. Unfortunately, the more time that passes between HVAC check-ups, the better the chances of a serious, expensive problem when you need heating or cooling most. Sticking to a twice-a-year service schedule can save you a lot of money and frustration.

The post What should I ask my service technician during a maintenance visit? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

How to Keep Your AC in Its Best Shape This Summer

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 05:00:00 GMT

In the middle of a Georgia summer, few things are as pleasant as walking into a cool, refreshing home after being outside in the hot sun. We know how important it is to keep your AC running smoothly when the temperatures become stifling. Here are some simple tips that will help ensure your unit stays in its best shape this summer.

Clean your outdoor unit. The harder your system has to work, the less efficient it is. If your outside unit is covered with debris , its job becomes much more difficult. Make sure to remove leaves and anything else that might obstruct the flow of air. Even a layer of dirt or grime can be a problem, so a good wipe-down can also help. Avoid landscaping too close to the unit – the more space it has, the better.
Check your air filters . Wiping down your unit will reduce the amount of dirt that the filter inside it has to collect. Limited air flow from a dirty filter means that the unit has to work harder to cool your home, which is expensive and bad for the longevity of the system. Dirty filters can also cause problems with refrigerant and the freezing of evaporator coils.
Check your ductwork. If your ducts are leaky, your unit is overcompensating. Hire a professional to ensure that your ducts are sealed correctly. This will help your unit and should save you money .
Keep your thermostat above 70. Try not to blast your air conditioner at a temperature below 70 degrees when you can avoid it. It’s likely to run constantly, creating stress on the unit. Use a programmable thermostat to help keep your home at a moderate temperature.
Schedule maintenance. Invest in your unit by making sure you take proper care of it. Regular maintenance by a professional will ensure that your unit is running efficiently so that you can enjoy that refreshing cold air all summer long.

As always, we are here to help with air conditioning maintenance and repairs this summer. If you notice issues or would like to sign up for our yearly maintenance program, give us a call at 770-213-2665.

The post How to Keep Your AC in Its Best Shape This Summer appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Tackling Winter Humidity

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 15:43:00 GMT

Tackling Winter Humidity

While summertime is the season most often associated with humidity, wet winters like this one can bring their own difficulties. At this time of year, we frequently see trouble with indoor humidity levels in homes. If you’ve ever noticed foggy windows in your home during the winter months, you’ve probably dealt with high winter humidity levels. Since high humidity can be uncomfortable and potentially damaging, it’s important to make sure your home’s stays balanced.

Humidity During Winter

First, measure your home’s relative humidity level. This is the percentage of water vapor that your home’s air holds. You can do this by purchasing a tool called a hygrometer, but some smart thermostats, like Nest, do this automatically. Cold air holds less water than warm air. That means that if your home produces too much moisture, the warm air from constantly running your heater will hold onto the moisture and create too much humidity in your space. The effects of having overly high humidity in your home range from simply feeling uncomfortable and stuffy to mold and bacteria growth.

The Ideal Humidity Level

Aim to keep your home at a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. Since we live in a mostly moderate climate here in North Georgia, aiming for around 40% is ideal. By maintaining your relative humidity level in the desired range, you can actually save on your energy bill . If your humidity level is normal, you will naturally feel warmer since the air is not taking moisture and warmth from your body (causing dry skin). If you’re unsure about your home’s humidity levels, our techs can measure it for you.

Mitigate the Moisture

There are a few ways to help If you find that your home’s air is holding too much moisture.

Always make use of your exhaust fans. Run the
fans in the bathroom while showering and leave them on for at least 15 minutes
after to pull excess moisture from the air.
Along the same lines, run your exhaust fan over
your stove during and for a few minutes after cooking.
Check your doors’ weather stripping. Though you
can lose humidity if it’s cracked, blocking these drafts will also ensure that
your heater won’t have to work overtime.
Check your window seals. Broken window seals
allow cold and warm air to meet, causing condensation and trapping moisture.
If these tricks don’t help, consider
a dehumidifier . Our techs are happy to evaluate your relative humidity
level and advise you about whether a dehumidifier would help your home.

By working to control the moisture in your space, you and your family will be more comfortable, the structure of your home will be better off, and your wallet will thank you.

The post Tackling Winter Humidity appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

The Effects of Dirty Air Filters

Thu, 24 May 2018 18:48:00 GMT

Reduced air flow – Air conditioners require a certain volume of air flow to function. If a unit can’t reach that level, it won’t operate as designed and will eventually stop working at all.

Cooling inefficiency – Dirt on the coils will lead to frost buildup on both the coils and the fans, making the unit work harder to achieve the set temperature.

Skyrocketing power bills – With its cooling capacity compromised and air flow diminished, your unit will consume significantly higher levels of power. A quick and easy filter change can prevent a dramatic increase in your electricity bill.

In most cases, changing your filter is an easy task that doesn’t require professional help. However, if you have questions or do find that you need assistance, give us a call. We are happy to help.

The post The Effects of Dirty Air Filters appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

HRV and ERV Systems: Improve Indoor Air Quality While Saving Energy and Money

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 01:31:00 GMT

With an increasing effort to make homes more energy-efficient, homes are becoming more insulated and weatherproof, making air quality and air circulation a major concern. To maintain indoor air quality, a home requires a mechanical ventilation system. There are four basic types – exhaust, supply, balanced, and energy recovery. Here, we take a look at Heat Recovery Ventilation (HVR) and Energy Recovery Ventilation (EVR), the less familiar of the four.

Heat Recovery Ventilation

In an HRV system, heat recovery ventilators, an air exchanger and a heat exchanger create a cross-flow or counter-flow of heat between inbound and outbound air. The system conserves energy by capturing some of the heat in outbound air and transferring it to fresh inbound air. HRV systems are available as stand-alone units or can be integrated into your HV/AC unit, depending on the size of your home.

Energy Recovery Ventilation

ERV systems, like HRV systems, retain heat while expelling stale indoor air and circulating fresh and filtered outdoor air. The key difference the ERV system’s ability to cool inbound air as it enters your home. ERV systems can also determine the level of water vapor in outbound air and either humidify or dehumidify inbound air to match it.

Choosing Between HRV and ERV

Either system will improve a home’s air quality by continuously expelling stagnant air and pre-conditioning the fresh outside air that it cycles in. By recycling heat and coolness, either will make a home more energy- efficient. Under most conditions, the versatility of an ERV system makes it the better choice. An HRV system would be preferable only if you live in a place that’s usually cold.

This is only an introduction to home ventilation options that will be unfamiliar to many people. We know that you take big decisions like this one seriously, and we know that specifics and technical details can be confusing. If you think one of these systems might be right for you, please feel free to contact us at Comfort Zone. We’re happy to address your questions about logistics, pricing, model availability, or any other aspect of these ventilation systems. We want to be your hero.

The post HRV and ERV Systems: Improve Indoor Air Quality While Saving Energy and Money appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Understanding MERV Ratings

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 17:34:00 GMT

As the allergy season approaches, your air filter can make a big difference in your indoor air quality . Homeowners should change their air filters every four to six weeks. If air filters aren’t changed regularly, contaminants may be circulated directly into your home’s living spaces , significantly decreasing air quality. Additionally, homeowners should make sure they install filters with the MERV rating recommended for their HVAC systems.

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, commonly known as the MERV rating, is a standard that rates the overall effectiveness of air filters. The scale for MERV ranges from 1 to 20. A higher MERV rating means better filtering performance.

Effective home filters have MERV ratings in the range of 6 to 13. Any of these filters will capture a range of particulates such as lint, dust, mold spores, bacteria , dust mites, tobacco smoke, pet dander, and pollen, but a filter with a higher MERV has a higher capturing capacity.

For those who suffer from allergies, filters in the 9 to 13 MERV range are highly effective . These filters capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, and allergens are typically 0.3 to 0.7 microns, you can be sure that these impurities will be removed from your home’s indoor air.

Spring is just around the corner. Don’t let allergies ruin the warm days of spring. Instead, call our experts, and let us equip your home with an air filter that can help.

The post Understanding MERV Ratings appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Keep Your Air Conditioner in Good Shape With These Tips

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

The overwhelming majority of the issues you’re likely to deal with regarding your air conditioner will develop slowly over time. They also likely won’t start to give off obvious symptoms until they’ve been allowed to develop for a while. This is obviously a problem if you want to prevent your air conditioner from becoming damaged by any issues that develop. The best way to catch problems early is to schedule preventive maintenance for your air conditioner at least once a year, usually during the spring. This will give your technician the opportunity to resolve any issues before they become too problematic.

Air conditioners that receive regular maintenance have been shown to operate up to 40% more efficiently than systems that don’t, as well as being 90% less likely to develop problems in the future. It is absolutely in your best interest to schedule preventive maintenance for your air conditioner for these reasons. Even if you miss the ideal maintenance window, it’s better to have it done late than to skip it entirely. So, make sure that you have a technician check out your system for you at least once a year.

Call for Repairs if Necessary

If you are careful about scheduling maintenance for your air conditioner on a regular basis, you can expect it to stay in good shape for a lot longer than it otherwise would. However, you should know that there is no guarantee, even with preventive maintenance, that your air conditioner will never develop a problem. In fact, the longer you have your air conditioner, the greater the chance that you will have to have it repaired in some fashion. If and when a problem does arise with your system, you need to make sure that you call for repairs as soon as possible. The faster the system gets repaired, the more damage gets prevented.

There are a lot of different signs and symptoms that could indicate that your air conditioner needs repairs. Odd noises should always be investigated by a professional, as they tend to indicate various issues depending on the noise. Grinding, for example, can indicate that the air handler is on the verge of failure. Short cycling, in which your air conditioner turns itself on and off every couple of minutes, is another major threat that can shorten the lifespan of the system by years if it isn’t dealt with. Make sure that you call for repairs if you even suspect that there is a problem with your AC this season.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing offers a full range of HVAC services in Atlanta, GA. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians.

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How Leaky Ducts Can Ruin Your Heating Efficiency

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 16:00:00 GMT

The condition of your ducts can actually have a significant effect on the efficiency of your heating system, assuming you’re using a centralized ducted system. Have a look at how leaky ducts can ruin your system efficiency, and what you can do to prevent it.

Duct Leaks

Ducts are very prone to leaking, especially if they’ve been around for a while. Though these leaks are often small, they tend to add up very quickly. Older ducts can have massive gaps in them, especially at the junctions where multiple sections of the ductwork meet. This can form just from years of expanding and contracting with the temperature of the air in the ducts. The US Department of Energy has found that the average centralized forced air system loses up to 30% of its output during operation. That’s nearly a third of the total amount of heat the system generates going to waste, which you are still paying for. That’s why it’s so important to remedy duct leaks whenever you find them.

Duct Testing

Before the ducts can be repaired or replaced, they need to be tested to locate the leaks themselves. This is often done by pressurizing the ducts, then using something like a smoke pencil to locate the leaks themselves. This can only be done by a professional, and should be conducted at least once every couple of years. This helps to catch any new duct leaks that may form, even if the ducts have been previously patched.

Duct Replacement

Once any leaks in the ductwork have been located, they need to be dealt with. Smaller leaks can often be sealed without needing to replace any large part of the ducts. In some cases, though, the leaks are just too large or numerous to seal effectively. In those cases, you’re going to need to replace a part of the ducts. As is the case with testing and sealing, you’re going to need a professional to do this for you. Duct replacement very rarely involves replacing the entirety of the ductwork. Instead, the affected ductwork section is removed and replaced with a new section.

Duct replacement may seem extreme, but if your technician is recommending it to you, it is very likely necessary. Continuing to use leaky ducts, instead of replacing them with ones that work, is just signing up to waste more money on a more uncomfortable heating experience. Better to have the ducts replaced and not have to worry about them again for a couple of years.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides comprehensive duct services throughout Marietta, GA. If you have any need for duct services, we can help. Contact us today for an appointment.

The post How Leaky Ducts Can Ruin Your Heating Efficiency appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Low Air Conditioner Output, and What Causes it

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Refrigerant Leaks

An air conditioner cools a home by circulating refrigerant. It evaporates refrigerant to absorb thermal energy from the ducts in the home. It then condenses the refrigerant gas back into liquid in the condenser coil outside in order to vent the heat out of the home. Air conditioners rely on the same amount of refrigerant throughout their lifetimes, which makes refrigerant leaks a serious problem.

As the amount of refrigerant in the air conditioner drops, the system’s ability to cool the home effectively will drop, as well. At some point, the refrigerant supply will drop to the point where the air conditioner cannot continue functioning. If you notice fluid dripping from your air conditioner, especially if it coincides with falling output, it’s a good idea to call for repairs.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter is meant to protect the air conditioner from a variety of contaminants commonly found in a home’s ductwork, like dust and pollen. It does this job well, but it has no way of getting rid of the junk that it captures from the air supply. If the filter isn’t replaced often enough, it will eventually will become clogged.

A clogged air filter will prevent most of the air flowing through the ducts from entering the air conditioner. Without proper air flow, the system will be unable to properly circulate cool air throughout the home. Fortunately, this is one of the easier problems to fix when it comes to air conditioning. Make sure that you replace the air filter at least once every three months, in order to prevent it from becoming clogged. If you aren’t sure how to replace your air filter, or don’t know what kind of filter the system uses, contact a professional.

Air Handler Problems

The air handler is basically a large motor with a fan attached to it. It’s the part that the air conditioner uses to blow air throughout the house during operation. Without the air handler, the system wouldn’t be able to circulate the air that it cools. So, if your air conditioner doesn’t seem to be blowing any air at all, it might be because of an issue with the air handler. This could be due to an electrical short preventing the part from operating properly. It’s also possible that the system just overheated and burned out from wear and tear. You’ll need to have a professional examine the system to tell for certain.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides full air conditioner repair services in Cumming, GA . If you need help with your air conditioner, contact us today for an appointment .

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Common Air Conditioning Problems to Watch for

Mon, 04 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Refrigerant Leaks

Your air conditioner is able to cool your home using refrigerant. It evaporates and condenses refrigerant to absorb heat inside the home and release it outside. The system doesn’t consume refrigerant, but recycles it between gas and liquid. If a leak develops in the refrigerant line , it will start to rob the system of its output as the level of fluid in it drops. If you notice that fluid is dripping from your system, especially if it’s accompanied by a drop in output capacity, you should call for repairs as soon as possible.

Short Cycling

If your air conditioner is turning on and off every few minutes, you probably have a short cycling issue. Short cycling is when the air conditioner is unable to complete a cooling cycle, usually due to an electrical short or a damaged compressor. Short cycling has a number of negative effects on the air conditioner. First, it cuts down on its output capacity significantly. Second, it seriously increases the amount of wear and tear that the system accumulates over time.

The longer a system is allowed to short cycle, the more likely it will be to develop problems of various kinds. Your repair costs for the system will skyrocket, as parts begin to give out under the strain. Prolonged short cycling will shorten the effective lifespan of the air conditioner by a number of years. If you notice that your air conditioner is short cycling, you should immediately call for professional repair services.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter is a fiber mesh that sits in the air return duct of the system. All dust and other contaminants that might otherwise be sucked into the air conditioner are caught by the air filter, helping the system to run smoothly. However, the air filter doesn’t have any method for ridding itself of the debris that it collects. If the filter isn’t replaced often enough, it will become clogged . This will cut off the flow of air into the system, causing efficiency for it to drop. Fortunately, this is easily solved by just replacing the air filter every three months or so.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides air conditioner repair services in Roswell, GA . If you need air conditioning repair services, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians. We’ll make sure your air conditioner is in top operating condition.

The post Common Air Conditioning Problems to Watch for appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Ice on the AC Coil: Is That Normal?

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

We understand why people might believe a frosty AC is normal. They feel chilled air coming from the vents, and what’s more natural than to have ice involved in the process? One of the ways to rig up a simple cooling system is to place a bowl of ice in front of a fan; wouldn’t it make sense for an air conditioner to work in a similar fashion?

The answer is: no it isn’t. Ice on an air conditioner coil is a symptom of a problem with an air conditioner—possibly a major one—that requires air conditioning repair .

Air Conditioners Do Not Use Freezing to Cool a Home

At no point in the cooling process does an air conditioner use ice or frost, and it shouldn’t be a byproduct of the process either. An air conditioner is a type of heat pump, which means it pumps heat from one location to another, in this case removing heat from inside a home and moving it outside. It does this through the circulation of a chemical refrigerant blend that evaporates and condenses in a heat exchange cycle. Although the refrigerant in the indoor evaporator coil is extremely cold, it should not trigger the creation of ice because it warms up as it absorbs heat from the air.

Why You Might See Ice on the Indoor Coil

There are a few possible causes of the “frozen coil” problem:

The air filter for the HVAC system is clogged. This is one of the reasons to keep current with changing the filter (every 1 to 3 months). If insufficient warm air is drawn over the coil, it will remain too cold and moisture will start to freeze along it.
The coil may be dirty (which could be from a clogged filter as well). Dirt serves as an insulating later over the coil, restricting its ability to absorb heat. This leaves the refrigerant too cold, and will again start to cause moisture to freeze along the coil.
The AC may have a refrigerant leak. This is the most serious problem, since a drop in refrigerant level changes pressure throughout the system and will damage the compressor. The reduced refrigerant level hinders heat absorption on the coil, leaving the remaining refrigerant too cold … and the same moisture freeze will start.

Ice on a coil will only continue to grow, because the ice prevents heat absorption. But you don’t want to try to scrape off the ice to fix the trouble. Not only will this fail to solve the root problem, but it might damage the coil. Call HVAC professional for repairs.

Calling us for air conditioning repairs in Roswell, GA is the fastest way to see any troubles with your home cooling system are solved—fast and right!

We are offering 10% off repairs or $150 off replacement systems for members of the military and senior citizens . Contact us for more details.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Cummings, GA and throughout North Atlanta. Call our customer service specialists at 770-213-COOL (2665) and let us know how we can help.

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3 Common HVAC Myths—Busted!

Mon, 29 May 2017 15:00:00 GMT

We’re here to bust up 3 major myths about air conditioning systems we still see and hear all too frequently. Always remember, when in doubt, call on the professionals ! We’re the experts on heating and air conditioning in Dunwoody, GA and the surrounding North Atlanta area who can care take of you.

Myth No. 1: You only have to change the HVAC filter once a year

Oh dear no. The HVAC filter is an essential part of protecting the interior components from becoming dusty and damaged. (It isn’t designed to improve air quality, which is an interesting sub-myth.) The filter will rapidly become clogged up with debris and needs to be changed regularly—much more often than once a year. The filter must be changed every four to six weeks, or else the HVAC system will suffer a drop in efficiency and cause other serious problems such as short-cycling and frozen evaporator coils. Make a check every few weeks to see if it’s time to change the filter.

Myth No. 2: Closing the vents in unused rooms will save energy

We understand why people might believe this. If there’s no cooled or heated air going to a particular room, it must mean less work, for the HVAC system. Nope! We have to bust this one wide open. Not only will closing room vents not save money, it can damage the ventilation system. The blower fan doesn’t work any less when there are closed vents, but it will increase pressure within the ductwork. The heightened pressure will lead to the blower fan running for longer—wasting energy rather than saving it!—and the pressure spike can cause air leaks in the ducts that may require having them replaced .

Myth No. 3: You don’t need routine maintenance

This is probably the most pervasive and dangerous HVAC myth in circulation. Maintenance is necessary to keep a system working in top shape and for the longest possible lifespan. It keeps away unnecessary repairs, prevents emergency breakdowns, and keeps the HVAC system safe—especially important if you use a gas furnace. Thankfully, maintenance isn’t tough to stay on top of: we offer our Comfort Club to see to your annual spring and fall maintenance visits. You’ll receive extra benefits along with membership, such as discounts and preferred customer status so you can jump to the head of the service queue.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Cummings, GA and the rest of the North Atlanta area.

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Cooling Emergency! What to Do When Your AC Dies

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Our winter in Georgia is short, and it doesn’t take long for the hot weather to arrive and air conditioners to get back to work. Right now is an excellent time to plan for running your AC. It’s not too early to arrange for air conditioning maintenance , which is the best way to see that a cooling system will work at its best all the way through the summer.

There’s another bit of planning for the upcoming warm weather, which is to consider what to do if your air conditioning system should abruptly break down during a hot day. (And yes, even with regular maintenance, there’s still a chance the AC will fail.) A broken air conditioner can be a serious emergency if there are elderly people or infants in your home. You’ll need the system working fast—and it won’t just fix itself.

In most cases, you will need to have HVAC experts handle fixing the air conditioner. Call us for air conditioning repair in Roswell, GA any time of the day or night and we’ll dispatch a trained service professional to your home to have the problem solved as soon as possible.

Steps to Taken When the Air Conditioner Breaks Down

Check for a tripped circuit breaker in the electrical panel. If an AC becomes overstressed—something that can happen due to a clogged filter or simple wear and tear—it can lead to placing too much demand on the circuit. If the AC immediately trips the circuit breaker after you reset it, then you’ll need repairs.
Look over the thermostat to see that there isn’t an issue with a mistaken setting. You might need to replace the thermostat batteries.
Look up the model and serial number for both the interior and exterior units of the system. You’ll locate this on a sticker on the back of the unit.
Call our technicians. We have 24-hour emergency service, so don’t worry about what time you call us.
Check on the system warranty. We can help you find your warranty information.

Here’s What You Can Do to Stay Cool in the Meantime

One of our technicians is now on the way to help you out. But you’ve still got a hot house until then, so what can you do to stay cool? Here are some tips to help you chill.

Shutter or draw the shades over the windows if it’s daylight. Radiant heat coming through windows is a huge contributor to elevating indoor temperatures.
Use a combination of fans and ice cubes. Place a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan, and the power of evaporative cooling will create chilled air. Gather people in one space with these fans to keep them cool.
Turn off as many heat-generating appliances as necessary. This includes the lights. Don’t run the dishwasher or the laundry machine, which will add both heat and moisture to the air.
If the AC is supplying cool air, but its fan is still working, keep the fan on to help circulate air and create breezes that will make people feel cooler.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Cumming, GA and the surrounding areas. We have 24-hour emergency service available.

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Reasons to Pick a Ductless AC for a New Air Conditioner Installation

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 16:00:00 GMT

With such a short cold season here in Georgia, it’s really never too early to start thinking about installing a new air conditioning system if your current one is old or not working as well as it once did. In fact, this is one of the best times of the year to have installation scheduled, since it’s easier to arrange a convenient time without the big rush to beat out the big heat of the year.

Have you thought about a ductless AC?

Ductless mini split systems are rising in popularity with homeowners. These comfort systems are heat pumps that operate through a series of small air handlers mounted inside rooms, rather than a single indoor unit that sends cooled air through ductwork. The mini air handlers have refrigerant coils and blower fans so they can blow the cooled air straight into the living spaces. But they’re still part of a central comfort system, since the indoor units connect to a single outside cabinet.

Are there advantages to this type of AC?

Many! Not all of them may apply to your home, but here are some to think about.

Since ductless mini splits are types of heat pumps, you can also get heating from one. That’s takes care of year-round comfort.
The lack of ducts means you don’t have to worry about duct leaks, duct cleaning, and some of the general efficiency troubles that ducts can create.
Ductless mini splits use smaller motors than standard ACs and heat pumps, so they require less power. Along with the lack of ducts, this means they use less power. You can expect reduce energy bills.
Since each air handler can be operated separately from the others, you only need to run the units in occupied rooms. This is another way to save money.
If you’re building a new home or remodeling your current one, a ductless AC gives you more freedom—there are no space-eating ducts to worry about!

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Alpharetta and Cumming, GA. Call our customer service specialists at 770-213-COOL (2665) and let us know how we can help.

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What’s That Burning Smell Coming from the Furnace?

Mon, 05 Dec 2016 16:00:00 GMT

When people first turn on their furnaces for the beginning of the cold season, it’s not unusual for them to notice a sharp, acrid smell coming from the vents. You’ll probably run into this when you fire up your furnace for the first true day of the winter chill. Is it a reason for you to be worried, and should you call for our technicians to come and look into it? We’ll look a bit deeper into this common occurrence below.

Why a furnace may give off burning odors

There are a few reasons for a furnace to create an acrid smell coming from the vents. Some are harmless—but not all.

Dust on the heat exchanger/heating elements: The most likely cause for the burning smell is that there’s a layer of dust over the heat exchanger (if you have a gas furnace) or the heating elements (if you use an electric furnace ). This dust gathers through the middle of the year, and once the furnace turns on it will harmlessly burn off. The odor should last for less than an hour.
A clogged furnace filter: If the burning odor doesn’t fade away after an hour, check on the furnace’s filter. We recommend that you always start each winter season with a fresh, clean filter in place. A clogged one can allow dust and dirt to get into the burners, and that creates the acrid smell. A congested filter can also cause a furnace to start to overheat, another source for a hot, burning smell. (By the way, if the filter wasn’t changed because you didn’t arrange for annual maintenance, schedule that right away!)
Burnt out motor: This is a more serious issue, and it requires a professional to handle replacing the motor. If you can’t find the source for the burning smell, turn off the furnace and contact our customer service team. They’ll send people out to your house to solve the trouble and see that you have a safe, working furnace.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Cumming and Canton, GA. Contact our customer service specialists at 770-213-COOL (2665) and let us know how we can help.

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Yes, Your Heat Pump Needs Maintenance in Fall!

Mon, 03 Oct 2016 15:00:00 GMT

Our major concern for comfort during the year is keeping our homes cooled down in the Georgia heat and humidity. The winters aren’t as rough, and that’s a reason why many homeowners choose to use a heat pump for indoor comfort. A heat pump makes for a powerful cooling system during the summer, and then an efficient heating system that can deliver sufficient warmth to deal with the mild winter.

If you have a heat pump, we hope that you arranged for maintenance for it with our technicians during the spring. This is the best way to ensure that the system makes it through a sweltering summer without any major malfunctions or spikes in operating costs. Now it’s fall, and your heat pump is likely still at work dealing with the lingering high temperatures. It will soon take a break before you need it to work in heating mode—and that’s the ideal time to schedule its fall maintenance service.

Why do I need to schedule maintenance twice?

Because a heat pump isn’t the same as an air conditioner or a furnace: it doesn’t only work during a single part of the year and then go into hibernation. A heat pump uses the same set of components to provide cooling and heating to a building. It only switches the direction that it operates when it moves from one mode to other. The same compressor, motors, fans, relays, and refrigerant coils continue to work regardless of the mode.

When you consider how much your heat pump has worked in cooling mode during the summer, you’ll start to see why it’s necessary to have it inspected and tuned-up afterwards. Even though the heat pump will not do as much work through the winter, the summer leaves enough stress on it that it must have adjustments and cleanings to help it through until the spring.

To request maintenance service and sign up for our Comfort Club, get in touch with us today. Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing serves Cumming and Roswell, GA.

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Is It Finally Time to Replace Your Old Air Conditioning System?

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:00:00 GMT

As soon as the temperatures start to cool off a bit when we move deeper into the fall, there’ll be an opportunity to replace aging parts of your HVAC system. Start off with a heating maintenance visit from professionals so you’ll know if your heater is going to make it through the winter. But you may also wish to consider making some drastic changes with your air conditioner— such as replacing it . The mild weather in fall is a great time to have this done: you won’t have to think about it through the winter, and as soon as the warm weather comes back again, you’ll have the great AC ready to go.

But how will you know you need a new AC?

That’s the big question. You don’t want to discard an air conditioner that still has some solid performance years left in it—that’s a waste of money. Below are some ways you can tell you have an AC that’s actually ready to retire. You can call our specialists for an expert opinion.

It’s more than 15 years old: The average lifespan for an air conditioning system is 10 to 15 years. Any system older than 15 years is more susceptible to breakdowns and plunges in energy efficiency.
It costs more to run than it once did: If your air conditioning system has received regular maintenance each year, it should retain 95% of its efficiency for most of its life. When that efficiency drops and your bills start to rise, it means the AC is close to the end.
Repairs are mounting: In general, an air conditioning system shouldn’t need more than one repair call a year, if that. If you’re calling more than once a year for repairs, or the system needs upwards of $500 annually in fixes to keep it running, then it’s better to have the AC replaced rather than to continue to sink money into it.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing wants to be your hero in Cumming and Cartersville, GA. Call our customer service specialists at 770-213-COOL (2665) and let us know how we can help.

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Summer’s Almost Over, So Should I Bother with Scheduling AC Repairs Now?

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 15:00:00 GMT

We understand that as the end of the season approaches, you might feel that it’s not worth the investment in arranging to repair troubles with your air conditioner. You can worry about these problems later, after all, and if the issue seems minor, why should you rush?

But this is the wrong way to think about your air conditioning system! You should never allow your AC to keep running if you believe there’s a fault in it. There is never a “wrong time” to call for air conditioning repair, as we’ll explain below.

Prompt Air Conditioning Repair Is Essential

There are some important reasons why you must never put off calling professionals to repair an air conditioning system:

The strain will reduce the air conditioner’s lifespan. Even a small malfunction in an AC, such as a motor that’s starting to run down, will place an increase in stress on other components that will result in rapid system aging. Your AC has less chance of making it to its full lifespan—and reward your initial investment in it—if it has repair needs left unattended to.
The air conditioner will drain more energy than it should. This is true of almost any AC malfunction, from dirty outdoor coils to a loss of refrigerant. You’ll end up paying much more for your cooling any time you turn the air conditioner on.
The AC will be at a higher risk of a sudden breakdown—and that’s not good when there’s still hot weather ahead! The last thing you want during a sudden heat wave is to turn on your air conditioner and discover that it doesn’t work. But that’s a chance you take when you choose to let repair issues go without remedy.

Make sure that your family stays reliably cool with a reliable (and efficient air conditioner) at summer’s end: call us for repairs as soon as you need them.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing repairs air conditioning systems in Cumming and Roswell, GA.

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Have an Old AC? Now Is a Great Time to Install a Daikin Air Conditioner!

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 15:00:00 GMT

We’re expecting weather up in the 90s for a long stretch. We hope you’ve already arranged for maintenance for you air conditioner so it has the best chance to make it through the hot weather without suffering a breakdown. (If you haven’t schedule maintenance service yet, it’s not too late!)

However, if you have an old air conditioner, it might be time to take the big step and have it replaced with a new system, such as one of the great Daikin air conditioners that we install. We’re the only Daikin Dealer in our service area, and Daikin offers a 12-year warranty on its AC units, which is 20% higher than most other brands offer.

Okay… but how just how old is “old” when it comes to an air conditioner?

This is a good question. That most AC manufacturers offer a 10-year warranty will give you an idea of what to expect. Most manufacturers estimate that their equipment will last between 10 to 15 years. Check on your air conditioner’s cabinet to find the service life estimate. If your AC has been working longer than that, it’s probably a good idea to arrange for a replacement.

But… the air conditioner still seems to be working fine…

The key word here is “seems.” An air conditioner may continue to deliver the amount of cooling you need even as its parts wear down. An AC that’s over 15 years old has probably already lost some of its efficiency (check on your history of bills, and you’ll likely see a slow rise) and is in greater danger of a catastrophic breakdown. Even with the best maintenance for the AC, you shouldn’t try to keep the system running far past the manufacturer’s estimate. And if your air conditioner is more than 20 years old, it definitely needs a replacement as soon as possible.

For a limited time, Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing is offering up to a $1200 rebate on select Daikin Equipment . Call us for more details. We service Cumming , GA and throughout North Atlanta.

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Do You Have an Attic Air Conditioner That’s Leaking Water?

Mon, 27 Jun 2016 15:00:00 GMT

Many homes in the area have their air conditioning systems housed in the attic. There’s nothing wrong with that location, unless the air conditioner starts to leak water. This will damage the insulation in the attic and lead to water damage inside the house. If you detect water leaking from your attic air conditioner, call on our HVAC technicians as soon as possible to have the trouble fixed.

What causes an air conditioner to leak water?

The most common reason for an AC to start to leak water is because of trouble inside the condensate system, which collects the water that condenses along the evaporator coil when the cooling system is running. An air conditioner that was not professionally installed may have a loose drain line that can become disconnected from the condensate pan that collects the water. The water will fall right through the hole in the pan. Technicians will need to replace the drain fitting and re-attach it to the pan.

The drain line can also develop blocks, and this is a frequent problem in a region with high humidity. Humid conditions encourage the growth of algae that will clog up the line. Dirt and rust can also lead to blockage. When the drain line is clogged, the shallow condensate pan will rapidly overflow.

There might be something wrong with the condensate pump that draws water down the drain line. Like any mechanical device, the pump can break down, or it could collect mold and mildew that will clog it up. Technicians will usually replace the pump to fix this problem.

There are a number of less common issues that will cause air conditioner leaking, such as cracks in the condensate pan or build-up of moisture inside the non-insulated ductwork. Make sure you contact experienced HVAC professional to find the source of the problem and have it fixed correctly.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides Alpharetta and Cumming, GA with fast air conditioning repair . We have 24-hour emergency service available.

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Refer Customers to Us and Save!

Mon, 09 May 2016 15:00:00 GMT

We provide comfort at its best to all of our customers—and of course we’re always looking for new customers who will benefit from our immense experience, skill, and range of services. This is why we have a referral program : we want to reward you for referring other customers to us!

How Our Referral Program Works

It’s easy to benefit from our referral program:

If you refer a customer to us who schedules a service or maintenance call with one of our expert technicians, we’ll reward you with a $25.00 Comfort Cash Certificate . This certificate can be used on any of the services or equipment that we provide—and that includes receiving a discount on your annual Comfort Club Maintenance Agreement .
If the person you refer to us purchases a complete new HVAC system, the benefits are even better! We will send you a check for $100.00 , and we’ll give the new club member a $100.00 Comfort Count Discount as well.

To receive the benefits of this program, make sure that the person you refer to us enters your name when prompted under the “How Did You Hear about Us?” section on their service request form. Or they can simply inform a Customer Service Representative when scheduling their appointment.

It’s Easy to Convince Your Friends to Try Us

It shouldn’t be too difficult to get your friends and neighbors to turn to us for their heating and air conditioning needs. You simply need to tell them about all of the excellent features we offer: 24-hour emergency service, superior warranties, upfront pricing, experienced specialists from our own staff ( not subcontractors), great promotions, top quality Daikin products, and an immense range of services.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing provides Alpharetta and Cumming, GA with the best in quality air conditioning services for the spring and summer. We don’t just want to be your local HVAC contractor… we want to be your hero!

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What Sets Daikin Apart: The Comfort Promise and 12-Year Warranty Plan

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 16:00:00 GMT

As a professional HVAC company, we are focused on providing the finest service for our customers. That means not only offering highly skilled and experienced technicians on every job, but also installing the best comfort products possible. That is why we are proud to be an official Daikin Dealer—the only one in this service area—and certified Daikin Comfort Professionals.

Daikin is one of the world’s leaders in indoor comfort and has been for many generations. Aside from Daikin’s many technical innovations, both residential and commercial, what sets the company apart from its competitors is its Comfort Promise and excellent limited warranties. We’ll explain both in more detail below.

The Daikin Comfort Promise

The Daikin Comfort Promise provides you with the assurance that your certified Daikin Professionals will see to all your needs and get the job done right. If a Daikin Comfort Professional does not meet your expectations within one year of the installation of your equipment, you only need to contact them and ask them to honor the Daikin Comfort Promise. The Daikin Comfort Professional will come back to your home and take care of any issues you have regarding the installation—all without cost to you. A Daikin Comfort Professional who does not live up to the promise is at risk of losing their certification to sell and install Daikin Products.

The Daikin Warranty

Daikin’s product warranties are the best in the HVAC industry. Where most brands offer a 10-year warranty on the compressor and parts, Daikin offers a 12-year warranty, a 20% increase. You only have to fill out an online registration within 60 days of the installation.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing is an official Daikin Dealer serving Cartersville, GA and throughout North Atlanta. Call our customer service specialists at 770-213-COOL (2665) and let us know how we can help you.

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How to Keep Your Heat Pump Efficient Through the Winter

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 16:00:00 GMT

Heat pumps have come a long way since the earliest models, which often struggled at heating a home efficiently when temperatures dipped below freezing. Today, if you rely on professionals to size and install a heat pump for your house, you should be able to enjoy energy-efficient heating throughout the winter—and great cooling during the summer.

You need to take care of your heat pump during the winter to make sure that it maintains its efficient performance. Here are a few steps to see that your heat pump works its best until it’s time to switch over to cooling mode:

Maintain clearance around the outside cabinet – The outdoor cabinet of a heat pump is where it draws in heat during the winter to bring indoors. The cabinet must be clear of obstructions on all sides for about 24 inches. This includes debris like leaves as well as plants and shrubs. If the heat pump suffers from a drop in the air flow into the cabinet, it will make the system inefficient and may even reduce its service lifespan. Make sure you have the foliage trimmed away from the cabinet.
Regularly change the air filter – The air filter for a heat pump protects the components in the indoor cabinet from damage due to dust and dirt. But it only takes about a month for the filter to build up too much debris, and this will choke off the air flow. The result will be an overworked heat pump that drains power.
Remember to schedule maintenance twice a year – Yes, your heat pump needs to have a maintenance check before summer starts to make sure it’s ready for the Georgia heat. But it also needs a check before the colder weather arrives. If you missed maintenance for fall, don’t hesitate to schedule it now! It’s better to be safe and prepared—as well as have a heat pump that will last for many years.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing offers service for heat pumps in Marietta, GA.

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The Heater Isn’t Working: What Can You Do before Calling for Help?

Mon, 18 Jan 2016 16:00:00 GMT

A broken heater during a cold winter day is one of the major emergencies a homeowner might encounter during the season. If your heater suddenly stops providing your household with warmth on a chilly day, you’ll probably feel pulled toward two different instincts. One is to immediately call for professional heating repair . The other is to try to tinker with the heater and maybe see if you can get it working again on your own.

The first instinct is definitely the better one. Only trained and licensed HVAC technicians should attempt to fix a malfunctioning heater… especially a gas-powered furnace. However, you can take a few steps to check on the heater before making a call. We’ve outlined them below:

See if the house has electrical power: During the day, it might not be easy to notice that your home has lost power. Check to see that a power outage isn’t behind the problem. Also look to see if a circuit breaker has been tripped. Remember, even a gas-powered heater requires electricity for operation.
Check on the thermostat: A mistaken setting on a thermostat, such as incorrect programming, can often be the simple reason behind why a heating system isn’t coming on. If you discover the thermostat is malfunctioning, then you have a good idea what’s wrong and can share this information with your heating repair technician.
Make sure the vents aren’t blocked: Lack of heat can sometimes occur because of accidental blocking of vents from moved furniture.
Check on the gas meter to the house: Loss of gas service is a frequent reason for people losing heating power.
Examine the air filter: For forced-air heating systems (furnaces, heat pumps) a clogged filter can result in system malfunction.

Once you’ve discovered that you have an actual repair issue on your hands, pick up the phone and call your local licensed heating and cooling specialists.

Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing is here for you in Roswell, GA. Call our customer service specialists and let us know how we can help.

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Is It Too Late to Schedule Heating Maintenance?

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 16:00:00 GMT

Professional heating maintenance is a job that you should arrange to have done each fall. This is one of the best ways to see that the heater that keeps your family comfortable during the winter works in peak condition for the longest time possible. Regular maintenance inspections and tune-ups will catch repair issues before they become serious, keep the system clean so that it works at maximum energy efficiency, and reduce the chances of the system abruptly shutting down during the winter.

But winter is already here. Does that mean it’s too late to arrange for heating maintenance and you should instead wait until fall arrives? No, not at all! Better late than never, and here are some of the reasons why:

Maintenance helps protect you from an emergency system breakdown

A heating system is most likely to suffer from a complete breakdown during one of the coldest days of the year. This isn’t a supernatural law, but a product of how much strain a heater undergoes during such times. You significantly reduce the chance of a system breakdown with regular maintenance, no matter what time of the year you have it done. There’s still plenty of winter weather ahead this season, so arrange for that inspection and tune-up now!

Maintenance prevents costly energy waste

Each year that a heating system misses its regular maintenance, it will lose on average 5% of its energy efficiency because of wear and tear. That will translate into higher bills. If you don’t want your heating costs to keep rising, have maintenance done as soon as possible.

Maintenance helps a heating system run safely

This is especially important if you use a gas furnace to heat your home. A gas furnace can become a safety hazard if it doesn’t receive routine inspections to check on such things as cracks in the heat exchanger or leaks in the gas line. Waiting until fall to see if your heater is running safely isn’t a risk you want to take!

To get your heating maintenance done, simply all on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing. We serve Dunwoody, GA and the surrounding areas.

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Get into the Zone with Zone Control for Your Heating

Mon, 28 Dec 2015 16:00:00 GMT

We’ve had quite a mild fall and beginning of winter, but make no mistake: winter is here, and it will get cold. If you have a ducted heating system and use a single thermostat to manage your household heating, you probably know that this can be a challenge. How? It’s hard to make everyone happy with one thermostat, and you also may have special architecture, like wall-to-ceiling windows, that make it hard to evenly heat certain areas. But the HVAC pros from Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing have the perfect solution for you: a zone control system .

A What?

It may sound like something big and looming, but it is fairly simple. A zone control system consists of three main components:

Motorized dampers
Main control panel
Thermostats for each zone

A zone control system works at the heart of your air delivery system: your ductwork. The first step is to establish the various zones of your home, and you’ll do this with your technician. Zones can be single rooms, a group of rooms, etc. The choice is yours. Once the zones are determined, our technician will install motorized dampers into the supply side of your ductwork, as well as thermostats into each zone. The dampers and the thermostats are wired to a main control panel. This panel tells the dampers when to open and close according to the temperatures set in each zone.

How Does This Help?

A zone control system offers you customized heating (and cooling). You completely turn off heating to zones that aren’t in use or turn heating up as needed per zone. If energy efficiency is a priority, it is much easier to achieve with a zone control system simply because you have far better control over the amount of heating you use.

Want to see what a zone control system can do for your home in Cartersville, GA? Call us today!

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Why Consider an Electric Furnace?

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 16:00:00 GMT

If you are in the position of choosing a new heating system for your home, one of your options is an electric furnace. Many homeowners initially balk at the idea of an electric furnace as they garnered a bad reputation not too long ago. However, many strides have been made with these heating systems, and they have become a viable option for many homeowners. Here are some of the reasons why an electric furnace may be for you:

Very High AFUE Ratings

The AFUE rating of a heating system tells you how efficiently that heating system utilizes fuel. It is a rate expressed in a percentage. Electric furnaces are often given 100% AFUE ratings because they don’t lose any energy to combustion byproducts. In other words, you aren’t losing any fuel to waste that is expelled through the furnace’s flue. This can be very attractive to certain homeowners.

You Don’t Need Fossil Fuels

Whether you simply don’t want to use any or you don’t have access to a gas or propane line, you won’t have to worry with an electric furnace.

It Is Easier to Maintain

Like any other heating system, an electric furnace needs to be maintained annually, but the process, while in-depth, is much cleaner. This is because your technician isn’t dealing with soot, ash and other combustion byproducts that can make the system dirty.

They Have a Longer Lifespan

Combustion heating systems like gas or propane furnaces, or boilers, typically have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Electric furnaces last an average of 20-30 years, giving you upwards of 10 extra years before you need to purchase a new system.

No Need to Worry about Carbon Monoxide

While you should always protect yourself from carbon monoxide, you won’t have to worry about your electric furnace being the source of this kind of gas.

Think an electric furnace may be an option for you? Call the pros at Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing today and schedule an appointment for your home in Marietta, GA.

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Is Your Commercial HVAC System Ready to Heat?

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 15:00:00 GMT

It’s still pretty warm here in Marietta, GA, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get ahead of the coming cold weather. One of the best ways to make sure your commercial building is ready for chilly temperatures is to schedule a maintenance appointment for your commercial heating system . You may be saying to yourself, “I just had maintenance done this past spring!” It is important that both your heating and cooling systems are maintained annually, and even though yours may reside in the same rooftop unit, they typically don’t use the same components to heat and cool. The commercial HVAC experts from Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing are ready to help you, so give us a call and schedule heating maintenance for your commercial heater today!

The Benefits of Maintenance

Lots of things will cost your business money. When it comes to your commercial HVAC system, repairs, poor performance and poor energy efficiency will most certainly cost you money. But annual maintenance for both your heating and cooling system will help offset these costs. How? By helping with the following:

Increasing energy efficiency – your commercial HVAC system can’t run efficiently when it is dragging last year’s wear and tear with it. The components will be cleaned, adjusted and lubricated so that your system works as efficiently as possible.
Better performance – did you notice that your HVAC system had become sluggish recently? You’ll notice a big difference after your maintenance appointment because the appointment is a full tune-up for your HVAC system.
Prevention of potential repairs – there’s no way to guarantee that you won’t ever need repairs for your commercial heating and cooling system, but maintenance comes close. This is because during a maintenance appointment, your system is thoroughly inspected so that the technician can detect any developing or existing problems.

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What Are the Benefits of a Commercial Rooftop AC?

Mon, 07 Sep 2015 15:00:00 GMT

Business owners have a lot of options when it comes to choosing a cooling system for their commercial space. Size and capacity factor into these decisions in a big way, but so does functionality. A long-standing favorite of many commercial property owners is a rooftop air conditioning system . These systems can be formidable and require the work of trained commercial HVAC experts. We have those experts right here at Comfort Zone HVAC, and we can help you with all of your commercial AC needs in Woodstock, GA.

How It Works

As the name indicates, a rooftop air conditioner is placed on the roof of your commercial building. You may need to have the location specially reinforced to handle the weight of the unit. All of the cooling components are located inside the large metal cabinet of the rooftop unit, so you don’t have to worry about finding another space for the air handler. The cooling process is basically the same as any other air conditioner, but it happens on a larger, more complex scale.

Why Consider a Rooftop Unit?

Here are some reasons a rooftop air conditioner may be a good choice for your business space:

It’s quiet – having all the components in a single cabinet and away from your indoor space ensures that you won’t hear disruptive noise during work hours.
It’s very accessible – with all the components in a single cabinet, and the cabinet having its own space in a single location on your roof, it is easy for a technician to work on your unit.
It’s protected – a rooftop system is not as vulnerable to damage from weather events, vandalism and theft because of its location on the top of your building.

Need help deciding whether or not a commercial rooftop AC is for you? Give us a call today!

The post What Are the Benefits of a Commercial Rooftop AC? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

The 20 Degree Spread: What It Means for You

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 15:00:00 GMT

We are in the thick of summer here in Canton, GA, and it’s time to pay attention to how you are setting your thermostat so you don’t overextend your air conditioning system and your energy usage. Many homeowners struggle with what their indoor temperatures should be, so the experts at Comfort Zone HVAC want to share a good tip: use the 20 degree spread. No, we aren’t talking about a football game. What we’re referring to is a way to set your indoor temperature in accordance with the outdoor temperature.

Varying Degrees

The essence of the 20 degree spread rule is that your thermostat inside should be set no lower than 20 degrees less than the temperature outside. For example, if it is 94 degrees outside, your thermostat shouldn’t be set any lower than 74 degrees.

Why Twenty Degrees?

Your air conditioner has to battle the heat and humidity just as you do; asking it to lower your home by twenty degrees puts plenty of stress on the system as it is. Simply put, your AC may not be able to achieve a cooler temperature, or will struggle to do so. This can invite excessive wear and tear, overheating and potential breakdown.

What If My Air Conditioner Is Bigger?

Bigger isn’t better with air conditioning, and in fact, will create bigger problems for you. Your home needs a specific amount of cooling to be comfortable. When you install an AC that is too big for your home, you’ll lose the important dehumidification that is a big part of cooling your home. Instead of feeling cool and dry, you’ll feel cool and clammy.

There are some simple ways to help maximize your air conditioning during our hot summer months: use ceiling fans, block the sun’s rays with drapes or blinds, or install a whole home dehumidifier. Need more suggestions to maximize your cooling in Canton, GA ? Call the experts at Comfort Zone HVAC today!

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3 Common Repair Issues with Your Air Conditioner

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 15:00:00 GMT

While we would love to help you install an air conditioner that will never break down, this type of machine unfortunately doesn’t exist. So we do the next best thing: offer excellent air conditioning repair services. A number of things can go wrong with your air conditioner , but there are some repairs that are quite common. No matter what the issue with your AC in Canton, GA, the experts at Comfort Zone HVAC are here to help you day or night.

Common Issues

Problems with the Fans

There are two fans in your air conditioning system, and both play a major role in the air flow and heat release/cooling process of your system. Common problems that can develop with your fans are issues with the fan blades, worn or broken fan belts, electrical issues or problems with the fan motor.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant is the chemical that facilitates the heat transfer process in your air conditioning system. Every air conditioner requires an exact amount of refrigerant in order to work. When a leak develops, the level of the refrigerant is reduced. This imbalance can lead to a lack of cooling or icing on the evaporator coils. Refrigerant leaks must be repaired by a trained and certified technician, and they will become worse over time if left unattended.

Issues with the Compressor

The compressor is the component of your AC system that pressurizes the refrigerant so that heat can be released. Compressors work under great stress, so it isn’t unusual for a compressor to experience motor problems, overheating and lockup. Many of these problems can be avoided with annual maintenance.

Problems with your air conditioner will only become worse over time, so if you are seeing signs that there’s an issue with your AC, call our trained specialists today!

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What Are My Options with a Ductless System?

Tue, 19 May 2015 15:00:00 GMT

Once popular mostly in commercial spaces like restaurants, ductless systems have become a go-to type of whole home system for many homeowners. Ductless systems can be great for older homes that that can’t easily accommodate ductwork, and they can also be great for additions and home expansions. But when it comes to ductless systems, you have two choices: going with a heat pump or using your ductless system just for air conditioning. Which is best for you? To answer this question, it’s best to take a look at the differences between the two options.

Heat Pumps

Heat pump systems offer you both heating and cooling, so this would be the first item to consider when making choices in regard to your heat pump system. For those who already have a heating system with which they are comfortable, you may not need or want to use a ductless system that offers heating as well. Heat pumps are very energy efficient because they don’t need fossil fuels to heat your home, and they have a relatively long lifespan that ranges from 20-25 years. Because they work all year long, it is important to have a heat pump scheduled for maintenance bi-annually instead of just annually.

Air Conditioning

With a ductless AC, you only get cooling, but you do gain the benefits of having customized cooling thanks to the indoor blowers (you get this with the heat pump as well) and the ability to reduce your energy usage because you won’t have to manage potentially faulty ductwork. As with a heat pump system, ductless air conditioning is easily expandable and annual maintenance will help keep your system running for 12-15 years.

Both types of systems offer easier installation, customized comfort and easy expansion. A single outdoor unit can support up to 4 indoor blowers with either AC or a heat pump.

If you are interested in using a ductless system in your Holly Springs, GA, home, but aren’t sure if you should choose a heat pump or AC system, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air today and schedule an appointment with one of our experts.

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Is It Time to Replace Your Commercial AC?

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 15:00:00 GMT

It may not be summer, but it’s getting warm outside, and you’ve probably already had to rely on your commercial air conditioner to cool your business space. Is it performing as needed? If not, it may be time to consider replacing it , but there are some factors to consider before making this decision. Working with a trained expert can help you determine if replacement is really your best option, and the AC experts at Comfort Zone Heating & Air are here to help you every step of the way – just give us a call!

Signs It May Be Time for Replacement

It can sometimes be hard to tell if your air conditioner has reached retirement age, especially if it is still operating. But just because the system is operating doesn’t mean it’s operating well, and you may be putting your business at risk by continuing to use it. Here are some factors to consider when thinking about the replacement of your commercial AC:

The age of your system – air conditioners have an average lifespan of 10-12 years, which can be stretched to 15 years with excellent maintenance. As AC systems age, they become more prone to breakdown, so it’s important to look at how old your system is in regard to potential replacement.
The overall performance – is your space cooling to the temperature you’ve set? Are your energy bills spiking even though you haven’t changed how you cool your business space? Poor performance can go hand-in-hand with an aging system, and cause discomfort and other problems.
Costly repairs – are you looking at expensive repairs to keep your system operable, or have you already spent a large sum keeping it going? It may be time to examine if that money is better spent on a new, reliable AC system.

Spring offers a great window of time to replace your aging commercial air conditioner before the hot weather sets in. If you are seeing the signs that it’s time to retire your current commercial AC in Woodstock, GA, then contact us today!

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The Effects of Low Refrigerant Levels on your Air Conditioner

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 15:00:00 GMT

The South is known for its hot and humid summers, and with April giving way to May, residents of Canton, GA may want to schedule a maintenance session to ensure that their air conditioners are functioning at peak capacity when the weather gets warm. One of the most important steps in any maintenance session is recharging your unit’s refrigerant levels when they get low. The refrigerant is the lynchpin of the air conditioning process: the component that allows it to cool the air in your home. The system depends on set levels of refrigerant to work, and the effects of low refrigerant levels on your air conditioner can cause some serious problems.

Frost on the Evaporator coils

The most obvious effect of low refrigerant is the formation of frost on the evaporator coils. This insulates the air you want to cool from the refrigerant doing the cooling, reducing efficiency and requiring more energy to properly cool your home.

Damage to the Compressor Motor

Refrigerant helps keep other components in the system cool as it cycles through the process. If levels drop, then those components are apt to overheat and/or shut down. The compressor motor, in particular, is vulnerable to overheating and may completely break down if the issue isn’t addressed.

Loss of Cooling Power

Eventually, refrigerant levels will drop so low that they can’t effectively cool the home at all. Your air conditioner then becomes a very expensive fan: moving the air without doing its job.

A maintenance session from a qualified professional can avert these problems: keeping refrigerant levels charged as well as sealing any leaks or other problems that lead to a loss of refrigerant. The experts at Comfort Zone HVAC will recharge your refrigerant and make sure your air conditioner is ready for summer!

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How Do I Know If My New Air Conditioner Is Energy Efficient?

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 21:11:00 GMT

Homeowners today are always on the hunt for way to save money with energy conservation. High-efficiency washers and dryers and LED light bulbs are among the most popular ways to reduce daily energy consumption in a home.

But what about air conditioners? An AC uses more energy during the summer than many other appliances will during the entire year—especially in a warm and humid place like Georgia. Reducing power consumption through the installation of a high-efficiency AC is one of the best ways to reduce utility bills.

We’ll show you how you can determine if the air conditioning in your house is energy-efficient…and what you can do if it isn’t. If you need new air conditioning installation in Canton, GA to upgrade to superior energy efficiency, contact the professionals at Comfort Zone Heating & Air today.

SEER and Energy Efficiency

First, find out the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) of your air conditioning system: you’ll either find this specification on the AC’s cabinet or in its manual. SEER measures how well an AC converts electricity into cooling power, and the higher the number the better. In order to meet the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR requirements, an AC must maintain a minimum of 14.5 SEER. If you have an air conditioner with lower SEER, you should consider replacing it for an ENERGY STAR qualifying unit.

However, just because a unit has higher than 14.5 SEER doesn’t mean it’s working at its most efficient, especially if it is more than a decade old. Age, lack of maintenance, and the need for repairs will reduce the system’s effective SEER. Check on your utility bills over the past few years (we hope you’ve kept a record of them). Do you notice a steady rise in summer electrical costs over the years, discounting any rise in costs for electricity? That’s a sign the AC is losing efficiency from aging. If you are keeping up with regular maintenance, this decline is usually a strong sign that it’s time to replace the system. Call for a technician to see first if there are any repairs that may help. The technician can also perform airflow tests and check on the motor draw to see if the AC is losing its energy-efficient performance. The technician can then recommend whether you should have a replacement system put it.

Even if you have an air conditioner with around 15 SEER that doesn’t seem to be declining, if it is over 10 years old you should consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit (some ACs can score 20 SEER or greater) to save energy in the long run.

Your local professionals in air conditioning installation in Canton, GA can assist with your options for a replacement that will make your home more energy-efficient. Comfort Zone Heating & Air can take care of keeping your home cool and your bills low.

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Is Ductless Split Air Conditioning Right for My Home?

Wed, 13 Aug 2014 23:23:00 GMT

Ductless mini-split air conditioners are a popular choice for homeowners, but to determine whether or not it’s the right option for you depends on a few factors. Comfort Zone Heating & Air has been installing ductless mini-split air conditioning in North Atlanta for a long time, and our technicians have seen the benefits our customers have gained from ductless systems. If you are thinking about choosing a ductless mini-split, following are some factors to consider.

What Is a Ductless System?

A ductless air conditioning system is similar to a traditional split-system AC in that it has an outdoor unit that houses a compressor and condenser, but instead of using ductwork to deliver the cool air, it uses individual blowers. Blowers can be mounted in many places, including above doors and windows, or flush against ceilings; they just need to be connected to the outside unit through a conduit. A single outdoor unit can support up to 4 blowers.

What Are the Benefits of a Ductless System?

There are several benefits to installing a ductless air conditioner :

Energy efficiency – the blowers of a ductless system are each individually operated, allowing you to cool only what you need to. Less cooling means less operation for your air conditioner, which can save you both energy and money.

No need for expensive ductwork – a ductless system eliminates the need for the installation of expensive ductwork, or the repair of old ductwork.

Customized comfort – each blower works independently, allowing for different temperature settings per room or area.

Easy expansion – if you wish to expand your cooling to any part of your home, all you need is another blower.

Quiet – the indoor blowers on a ductless system are made to be quiet, eliminating the noise a window unit or traditional split-system may make.

Ductless air conditioning in North Atlanta may provide you with the cooling solution you’ve been looking for. If you still have questions, or want to discuss further how a ductless AC might be a good choice for you, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air today and schedule an appointment with one of our experts.

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How to Tell You Need Commercial HVAC Repair

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 21:02:00 GMT

Your company depends on controlled temperatures inside the work place to keep your employees, customers, and/or clients content. Especially during a humid late summer in Georgia, you must have an HVAC system operating at peak performance so that nobody in your commercial building ever needs to give a second thought to their personal comfort.

That’s why you need to move quickly when you suspect your commercial HVAC system requires repair work. And you should contact a contractor in Ball Ground, GA for commercial work who can get to you fast, any time of the day or night, to take care of the job.

Comfort Zone Heating & Air has a trained staff ready to handle any issues with your business’ heating and cooling. We offer fast and reliable work, the sort you expect as a professional business owner.

Watch for these warnings signs you need HVAC repairs

Uneven temperatures: Most commercial HVAC systems are modular, run from a series of packaged rooftop units. If one of these units malfunctions, the others will still continue to run, but parts of the building may begin to receive reduced heating or cooling. If people in the building begin to notice rooms or spots that are uncommonly cold or warm, it could mean one of the rooftop units is failing or has already failed. Uneven temperatures could also originate from faults in the thermostat controls.
Odd smells from the vents: To keep down noise levels from the air conditioners and heaters, they are usually removed from the work areas, so people are unlikely to hear warning sounds of mechanical failures. However, these mechanical problems such as overheating motors can produce acrid odors that will drift through the vents. At the first detection of burning or unpleasant smells coming from the ventilation system, call for repairs.
Skyrocketing utility bills: Because you keep a close eye on the finances for your company, you will have a solid idea how much it costs during each season to keep the building comfortable. Should those costs take a sudden upswing for which you cannot account, it probably means there is a repair issue in the HVAC system that is putting excess strain on it. Repair technicians will get to the bottom of the problem and fix it.

You shouldn’t allow a poorly-performing air conditioner or heater to jeopardize the smooth operation of your business. Make the call immediately for professional repairs when you suspect that the HVAC system requires the attention of commercial repair specialists.

Our technicians at Comfort Zone Heating & Air have the necessary skill and experience with Ball Ground, GA commercial HVAC repairs to make certain that your building’s comfort is restored fast. Give us a call whenever you need us, 24/7.

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The Advantages of Commercial Packaged Air Conditioning Units

Mon, 21 Jul 2014 16:53:00 GMT

Making it through a summer in Atlanta requires the steady services of an air conditioner—and that goes double for businesses, which have to look after the comfort needs of staff, customers, and clients in areas much larger than most homes.

You have a number of different options for commercial HVAC installation in North Atlanta, GA, so make sure that you make the best choice possible with the assistance of specialists. Since you will need to have professional installers involved eventually, call up Comfort Zone Heating & Air and speak to our commercial experts for guidance as soon as you know you need new installation. Our technicians will help you pick out the right air conditioning unit for your company that will keep you and all your employees and customers comfortable.

Packaged AC Units and How They Can Benefit You

One of the most popular types of commercial air conditioning units is the packaged AC. What makes these different from the standard “split” ACs you often see in homes is that the packaged AC doesn’t have a separate outdoor and indoor cabinet with different components contained in each. All the components are housed in a single outdoor cabinet, which is usually installed on the roof of a business.

Here are some of the major benefits of a packaged air conditioner :

Powerful cooling loads: Packaged air conditioners have some of the largest cooling capacities available in single units. Even if there isn’t a solo unit that can handle the full cooling needs of your business, you can easily add on additional units since these systems are designed to be modular.
Easy access for repairs and maintenance: Packaged units are among the easiest of systems to repair and maintain because technicians only need to access the single cabinet to perform most of the work. This also reduces the amount of disruption to your business that repair visits can cause—almost all of the repairs will occur on the roof.
Space saving: Without the need for an indoor unit, and with the units placed up on the roof, you’ll have valuable space freed up for your business. This arrangement is also much more visually appealing, and it removes clutter from the outdoor areas at ground level.

Keep in mind that a packaged air conditioning system is only as good as its installation. Make sure that you only hire experienced contractors with a history of working on commercial HVAC installation in North Atlanta, GA. Call Comfort Zone Heating & Air and find out more about our commercial services and the possibilities for packaged air conditioning units for your business.

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Qualities of Ductless Split Air Conditioning

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 17:43:00 GMT

If you are adding air conditioning to your home, but you do not have any ductwork installed, you may think your options are limited. Window air conditioners lack the performance and efficiency of central air conditioners, but what choice do you have? Ductless mini split air conditioning systems are a unique, powerful, energy-saving solution that can be retrofitted or added to a new home or single room without any ducts at all!

Ductwork installation is can be impractical in older homes, multi-family housing, or homes with difficult layouts. Furthermore, if installed incorrectly, your faulty ducts can account for a lot of energy losses during the cooling season. Air can easily escape through the ducts, using energy to cool your attic or crawlspace, and costing you extra money every month.

Ductless mini splits, however, never run into this problem, and for a simple reason: no ducts! As with central AC, ductless split air conditioning systems have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. However, the indoor unit (or rather the multiple indoor units depending on the size of your home) is a powerful air handler that can be mounted on the wall of a room or suspended from the ceiling.

Ductless split air conditioning is powerful enough to cool one or several rooms, but far more efficient than many other systems. They often come with a higher price tag every month, but the energy savings may be worth it. Ductless many splits usually have a much higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) than central AC units, which means you’ll see significant savings on your energy bill every month.

One benefit of ductless air conditioning is zone control. You can control which rooms receive air conditioning and how much, adjusting the temperature in each separate zone with separate thermostats or a master thermostat that controls all zones. This can increase your family’s comfort and allow you to save energy by deciding whether to cool the entire home or only the rooms that are occupied.

To discuss ductless split air conditioning systems with a professional HVAC service company, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air today to schedule installation in Atlanta.

The post Qualities of Ductless Split Air Conditioning appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Common Tools Used in Duct Repair

Fri, 20 Jun 2014 16:07:00 GMT

To protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home, you will occasionally need to schedule repair work on the ventilation system. Leaking ducts will cause a drop in air pressure, leading to a loss of heating and cooling and a drain on power, and will also result in the infiltration of dust, dirt, and other contaminants into the ventilation system. With the help of professional duct repair in Atlanta, GA from the skilled team at Comfort Zone Heating & Air, you can have your ductwork restored to airtight condition.

When you suspect that you are losing air pressure from your ducts, call us first for testing to see where you will need sealing. After a thorough inspection, we’ll use the best tools available to repair your ducts.

Here Are Some of the Tools We use on duct repair

Duct leak tester: This is an essential tool for locating where repair needs are necessary in the first place. The technicians turn on your HVAC system and check along the ducts with this device, which consists of a fan and a pressure sensor. The leak tester will find where air pressure is escaping from the ducts and how much. This will tell the technicians where to target their repairs and what methods will work.
Mastic sealant: This is a common way of sealing up breaches and holes along ducts. Mastic is a resin-based sealant that dries fast but remains flexible so that it won’t crack because of the ducts moving due to changes in temperature. The smooth finish of mastic also means there is less air resistance. Duct repair technicians apply mastic using a special caulking gun.
Metallic tape: Some duct repair specialists prefer using metallic tape (the true “duct tape”; cloth-backed “duct tape” is not actually for ducts) over mastic sealant because it creates an actual mechanical seal. Metallic tapes are durable and will last for many years, and have high resistance to the temperature extremes inside the ventilation system.

In cases of extremely old ductwork, repairs may have to be more extensive and involve replacing sections of the ducts with new ones. If you are experiencing a general drop in efficiency in your HVAC system, you may need to have duct replacement work done. Ask the specialists after they perform testing what your best options are.

Comfort Zone Heating & Air is available for all your ventilation needs, any time of the day or night. Contact us today for duct repair in Atlanta, GA, as well as duct replacement and insulation services.

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Are Zone Control Systems the Same as Ductless Mini Split Systems?

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:27:00 GMT

Zone control systems refer to a way to divide a home up into different “zones” (often individual rooms, but sometimes as large as the upstairs and downstairs) that can have their temperatures set independently. This distinguishes them from most central heating and cooling systems, which provide the same temperature to all rooms whenever they turn on.

Ductless mini splits are a type of heat pump—capable of heating and cooling—that bypasses ducts and a central indoor unit. Instead, they use individual blowers mounted in different rooms to send air directly into the living space. Because these blowers can be set separate from each other, they allow for zone control.

In other words, all ductless mini split heat pumps are zone control systems. But not all zone control systems are mini split heat pumps.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of zone control and the installation of ductless systems for improved savings with your air conditioning in Atlanta, GA, call our specialists at Comfort Zone Heating & Air today.

Zone Control vs. Ductless Mini Splits

A zone control system is any comfort system that divides a space into different regions, each with independent temperature controls. A ductless mini split is a system that, by its nature, has zone control. If you choose to install a ductless mini split, you are also installing a zone control system.

Other zone control systems are upgrades to standard central air conditioners and heaters that are installed into the ventilation system. The technicians place dampers inside the ducts to control the flow of conditioned air, and these dampers are connected to individual thermostats. All the thermostats link into one control panel so a homeowner can set the different zones from one place. The local thermostats allow people to adjust the temperatures to their liking wherever they are.

Zone control systems in ductwork can be installed along with a new HVAC system, or they can be retro-fitted into an existing set of ducts. So if you already have a forced-air system with ducts in your home, you don’t need to replace it with a ductless mini split heat pump in order to receive the benefits of zone control; just call expert installers, and they can set up the dampers inside your ducts and hook up the thermostats.

Zone Control Advantages

Whatever way you fit your home for zone control—through the ducts or with ductless mini split installation—you’ll receive the benefit of a reduction on your power bills because you will only need to heat and cool the rooms you use. You’ll also have a happier household because everyone can set the temperature in the home to fit them, wherever they are, without affecting the rest of the house.

If you aren’t sure what type of zone control you should install, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air . We have years of experience with heating and air conditioning in Atlanta , GA to help us advise you.

The post Are Zone Control Systems the Same as Ductless Mini Split Systems? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Common Causes of AC Short Cycling

Fri, 11 Apr 2014 18:55:00 GMT

“Short-cycling” is a condition in an air conditioner (as well as other comfort systems) where the unit does not complete its normal cooling cycle and instead shuts off early. You can usually detect short-cycling in an AC because the system will continually turn on and off over brief periods, instead of running steadily and then shutting down for an equal stretch before starting again.

Short-cycling is bad news for an air conditioner. Because the system draws the most electrical energy at start-up, short-cycling drains excess power. It also causes premature aging due to excess wear and tear. It can have a negative effect on comfort as well, since the reduced running time means the cold air has less chance to spread out evenly throughout a home.

We’ll look over some reasons short-cycling can occur and what you can do about it. When you need professional assistance for a short-cycling cooling system, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air and speak to our specialists in air conditioning in Atlanta, GA.

Reasons for an air conditioner short-cycling

The worst-case scenario for an AC prematurely shutting down is that the unit was improperly sized when it was installed and it’s too large for your home. An overlarge air conditioner will lower the temperature so fast that it will shut off before completing the cooling cycle. Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done about an incorrectly sized AC except to remove it and have professionals install a system that will work with the space.

An electrical problem may lie behind short-cycling. If the control board of an AC develops a malfunction, it will start causing the system to shut on and off at the wrong times. The thermostat could also interfere with the AC’s cycles if the thermostat is miscalibrated and sensing the wrong temperatures. Technicians can repair the board or thermostat, although sometimes a replacement is the best option.

Your AC may have a bad compressor. This component serves as the central pump and engine for an air conditioner, sending the vital refrigerant through the unit. If the compressor begins to overheat or wear down, it may start shutting off frequently and end the cooling cycle. Technicians will usually need to swap out the compressor for a new one.

Let professionals investigate short-cycling

Since a number of problems can cause short-cycling to occur, you should not attempt to open up your air conditioner’s cabinet and troubleshoot the issue on your own. This job requires trained technicians with years of experience working air conditioners. They will locate the issue and find a way to repair it—or recommend a replacement if you have an oversized system.

If you need air conditioning repair in Atlanta, GA on the double, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air. We’ll get to the bottom of why your AC is short-cycling.

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Common Ductless Heating System Repairs

Mon, 03 Mar 2014 19:58:00 GMT

Ductless heating and cooling systems have started to make the leap from the commercial world—where they have long been popular in businesses such as restaurants—over to the residential world. Ductless mini split heat pumps give homeowners the advantages of a heat pump (dual action heating and cooling, efficient performance) without the need for space-consuming and dust-collecting ductwork.

Just because these systems don’t require ducts doesn’t mean they won’t sometimes require repairs. You no longer need to worry about ductwork breaks, but there are still some issues you can encounter with your ductless cooling and heating in Atlanta, GA that will call for the work of professionals to remedy. Call Comfort Zone Heating & Air, any time of the day or night, for the repair work for your ductless system that will get it back to work.

Some ductless mini split heat pump repairs

Sealing refrigerant leaks from broken lines: Ductless heat pumps use multiple refrigerant lines that run from the outdoor unit to the individual blowers mounted on the walls throughout your home. These lines can suffer damage and begin leaking refrigerant, and this will lead to icing along the outdoor coil during heating. Repair technicians can fix the broken lines and recharge the refrigerant to its proper level.
Re-attaching blower units to the wall: The multiple blower units inside your house must be well-mounted to the wall with power and refrigerant lines running out the back. Blower units can come loose from their wall chassis (especially if they received amateur installation) and cause problems like leaking refrigerant and water condensation getting into a gap between the unit and the wall. Make sure you have professionals properly seal the unit back to the wall.
Cleaning the coils: Dirty coils in either the outdoor unit or in the indoor blower units will cause the heat pump to encounter problems with absorbing and releasing heat, leading to issues with icing and a decrease in heating power. Professionals will need to remove the coils in order to properly clean them.

Call ductless specialists

Since ductless systems have their own peculiar needs compared to standard heat pumps, make sure that you contact repair technicians familiar with them. Comfort Zone Heating & Air installs many ductless mini split heat pumps, so we can provide you with the service you need for your heating in Atlanta, GA if you have a ductless system. Put your trust in our years of experience.

The post Common Ductless Heating System Repairs appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Which Heating System Is the Easiest to Install?

Tue, 25 Feb 2014 19:23:00 GMT

If you’re looking into a new heating system , the question is extremely important: what heating system is the easiest to install? In point of fact it depends on your particular circumstances. Here in Atlanta, heating installation services can inspect your home and provide a good sense of what works best for you. Generally speaking, however, it depends on how many components are already in place and how efficiently you want your particular home to be heated.

More radical heating systems such as geothermal systems and radiant heating systems are usually not easy to install. They involve a lot of disruption – including digging trenches on your property or removing and reinstalling the floorboards in your home – though they make up for that with efficient heating once they’re installed.

That leaves two basic styles of heating system: ductless mini split systems and forced air systems. Ductless mini split systems consist of multiple indoor units places around your home, all of which are connected to an outdoor unit. Forced air system systems use a series of ducts spread throughout your home to push heated air from a single, central location to warm your entire household.

Which one is easiest? That depends on whether or not your home already has ducts installed. If it does, then it’s usually easiest to install a furnace or heat pump compatible with them. The installation can be completed in a few hours in most cases and you don’t need to waste time or resources running ducts. If your house doesn’t already have a duct system, however, a ductless mini-split system usually entails the least amount of work to install, since the indoor units only need to be connected by thin conduits to the outdoor unit. Otherwise, you have to set up the ducts, which is a costly and lengthy procedure.

Again, that all depends on the specifics of you home. In Atlanta, heating installation advice and service is the purveyance of Comfort Zone Heating & Air. Our trained experts can inspect your home and make a recommendation as to what heating system is easiest to install, then set it all up with thoroughness and care. Give us a call today to set up an appointment and let us show you how we can help!

The post Which Heating System Is the Easiest to Install? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Breakdown Before Calling for Heating Repair

Thu, 06 Feb 2014 17:15:00 GMT

For small appliances around our home, such as toasters and microwaves, we are accustomed to waiting for the device to break down before we consider repairs for it… and in most cases, we won’t repair it, just purchase a replacement.

But you shouldn’t use the same mindset when it comes to the heating system in your home. A heater isn’t like a coffee machine that doesn’t cost much and only requires a few minutes to set up and plug in. A heating system is a major investment in your comfort that requires professional installation. And while it’s not difficult to go a few days without a coffee maker or a heated towel rack, a broken heater during one of the coldest days of the year can make like pretty miserable.

Heaters need preventive repairs the moment you sense something is wrong. We’ll explain why you should call Comfort Zone Heating & Air when you believe you need heating repair in Atlanta, GA.

Breakdowns are expensive to repair

The cost of fixing a malfunction for a heater when the system is still operating is almost always less expensive than trying to restore a broken system. When a heater breaks down, it’s often due to a number of overlapping problems that all need attention. If you have the problem taken care of while it’s still small, it will cost you far less in repair bills.

Breakdowns are damaging to heaters

When a heater reaches the point where it shuts down entirely, the wear and tear on its components will be so heavy that there’s a good chance the heater must be replaced entirely—the most expensive “repair” possible. Early repairs can not only prevent your heater from breaking down, it can prevent it from needing a complete replacement when it happens.

Breakdowns are inconvenient

It’s almost a guarantee that when a heater stops working, it will happen during one of the coldest days of the year. This isn’t a mystical law of nature; it’s because these are of the days when the heater gets the most stress placed on it. Although this situation isn’t as catastrophic during a winter in Georgia as it is in, say, Minnesota or Vermont, it will still make for an extremely uncomfortable and inconvenient situation while you wait for repairs. Have repairs done while your heater is still giving you heat.

You can’t prevent every break down, however, so make sure you have an Atlanta, GA heating repair contractor who offers emergency service around the clock. Comfort Zone Heating & Air is ready 24/7 for whatever ails your heating system.

The post Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Breakdown Before Calling for Heating Repair appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

SEER and HSPF: How Heating Pump Efficiency Is Measured

Tue, 21 Jan 2014 18:36:00 GMT

Trying to understand the technical specifications of complex machines can turn bewildering. Heat pumps are no exception. Don’t worry: with a skilled technician helping you either with selecting a heat pump or repairing one, you’ll have a guide through the technical maze.

We can help you right now by explaining two of the most important numbers for heat pumps, SEER and HSPF. These two acronyms will tell you how efficiently a heat pump uses energy to provide you with cooling and heating. One measures cooling efficiency, the other heating efficiency.

For more help with heat pumps, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air. We have earned the trust of many homeowners over the years with our services for heating in North Atlanta, GA.

SEER

SEER is the efficiency rating for a heat pump in cooling mode. SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency rating,” and is similar to EER, “energy efficiency rating,” except that it measures the average efficiency over a season, rather than on a single test. SEER is the ratio of the amount of cooling energy the heat pump provides in BTUs (British Thermal Units) to the amount of energy consumed in watt-hours. The ratio is expressed as a whole number. The higher the number, the more efficiently the heat pump uses electricity to remove heat from indoors and move it outdoors. In order for a heat pump to qualify for the U.S. government’s Energy Star label, it must have a SEER of 14 or higher.

HSPF

When in heating mode, a heat pump’s efficiency is measured as HSPF, which stands for “heating seasonal performance factor.” It is measured in an almost identical way to SEER: the ratio of heat provided in BTUs to the energy consumed in watt-hours, as measured over a season. Again, the higher the HSPF number, the more efficient the system. HSPF is usually lower than SEER, because heat pumps are not as effective at drawing heat from cold outdoor air as they are drawing it from warm indoor air. Most heat pumps will have an HSPF of around 9 or 10.

If you are currently considering installing a heat pump, knowing a unit’s efficiency is only part of finding the right heat pump. Let your installer guide you in finding the right type and size of heat to provide you with the optimal comfort in your home.

When you need assistance with your heating in North Atlanta, GA, call up the skilled professionals at Comfort Zone Heating & Air . We can help you install, repair, or maintain your heat pump so you have the maximum year-round comfort.

The post SEER and HSPF: How Heating Pump Efficiency Is Measured appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Heating Problems Caused by a Faulty Thermostat

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 21:06:00 GMT

Modern heating systems are intricate and complex devices designed to provide you with maximum comfort in conjunction with energy savings and safety. Among all the workings of furnaces and heat pumps, the thermostat is a component that often gets taken for granted. Even though the thermostat is your conduit into controlling the temperature in your home, this small wall-mounted unit seems distant, even removed, from the heater—but it is an integral part.

Many common heating problems people encounter come from faults in thermostats. We’ll go over a few of these issues so you’ll recognize when you need to call for heating repair in Atlanta, GA. Comfort Zone Heating & Air is prepared 24 hours a day to service your heater to fix any problems you may have.

Problems from a malfunctioning thermostat

Insufficient heating: One of the troubles that can occur with a thermostat is a miscalibration. This is a simple error that causes the thermostat to sense incorrect temperatures in your house. But this will throw off the programming in your thermostat and cause the heater to shut off at the wrong times, leading to poor heating levels. (The reverse can also occur: the heater stays on too long.)
Heater won’t turn on/turn off: If the thermostat loses its connection entirely to the heater because of problems in the wiring, you won’t be able to communicate to the heater at all. In this case, the heater will not come on no matter how you adjust the thermostat. Or, if the heater already was running, you might not be able to turn it off.
Uneven heating: This occurs with zone control systems, where the multiple thermostats control dampers that can turn off the heat to certain areas. If the central thermostat malfunctions, or one of the local zone thermostats does, it can mean areas of your home will start feeling too cold. Zone control systems are complicated and require specialists to hunt down the source of the malfunction among the different thermostats.

Upgrade your thermostat

If you have an older thermostat, a malfunction provides you with the opportunity to upgrade to better model, such as a digital programmable unit or the new wireless thermostats that allow control over your heating using a smart phone or other mobile device. The thermostat is important enough to your heating comfort that you will benefit immensely from a higher-tech model with precision heat control features. You might consider having an upgrade right now, even if your current thermostat isn’t malfunctioning.

Whatever kind of thermostat or heating system you have installed, you can trust to Comfort Zone Heating & Air to deliver the heating repair in Atlanta, GA you need to enjoy the rest of the winter.

The post Heating Problems Caused by a Faulty Thermostat appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Why Does My Heating Shut Off When My Home Is Still Cold?

Mon, 09 Dec 2013 21:47:00 GMT

Although we don’t need to rely on our heating systems for many months during the year in Georgia, they are still important for those stretches of cool days and chilly nights that come along during the winter. You want to make sure that your heater is doing the best job it can during those times when you need it.

If your heater starts shutting down soon after it comes on, leaving many rooms in your house still unpleasantly cold, you have a problem that is known as short cycling . It’s a failure that can happen to all types of heating systems, and there are different reasons for it to occur. In this post, we’ll look at the most common ones and tell you what you can do about them. For more information, contact the Atlanta, GA heating repair specialists at Comfort Zone Heating & Air. We provide service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Reasons for short cycling

Problems with the thermostat: If a thermostat malfunctions, it can incorrectly gauge the temperature in your home, or develop a faulty connection to the heater. A miscalibrated thermostat might sense that your home is sufficiently warm when it actually isn’t, and then signal the heater to shut down before it has completed its heating cycle. Thankfully, this is an easy problem for a technician to repair, since it only requires fixes to the thermostat or replacing the unit.
Loss of refrigerant: This applies to heat pumps. If your heat pump loses refrigerant through a leak, its heating power will start to decline, causing it to shut off prematurely.
Improperly sized heater: This is the most serious of the issues because it is difficult to fix. An oversized heater will raise the temperature so rapidly that it will shut off before it can complete its cycle and evenly spread heat through your home. If the heater is too large for your home, you should talk to a contractor about your options.

How a Faulty Relay Affects Your Electric Furnace

Mon, 18 Nov 2013 18:51:00 GMT

Furnaces have used an astonishing array of different fuel sources in their long history of providing people with heat during the chilly season. Eventually, the furnace entered the electrical age, and many of the most popular models today use the power channeled right into your home to provide an alternative to burning fuels like propane, gas, or oil.

Electric furnaces do come with their own specific set of repair issues, however. We’re going to discuss one in this post: the faulty relay. If you encounter this kind of trouble with your electric furnace, call up the Atlanta, GA furnace repair experts at Comfort Zone Heating & Air.

The troubles with faulty relays

The electric relay in a furnace is responsible for relaying electrical power to the heating elements and the blower motor inside the furnace cabinet. The heating elements provide the heat to warm the air, and the blower motor sends this warmed air through the ductwork. The thermostat switches the relay to “closed” position when heat is called for, sending electrical power, and then to “open” position when the furnace reaches the indoor target temperature, cutting off the power. The relay is therefore crucial for the furnace’s operation.

You might at first imagine that a faulty relay will cause the furnace’s heating elements and fans to fail to turn on. That is definitely one possibility. But another problem that occurs just as frequently from a faulty relay is that the heating elements and the blower fan will refuse to shut off. The reason for this is that the relay could become “welded” into the closed position and continues to allow power through to the heating elements and the fans. Over time—and without proper maintenance—the amps passing through the relay can cause it to heat up so much that its contacts will stick.

Caution: don’t try to fix this yourself

Electric furnaces do not have the danger of exposure to toxic or explosive gas that natural gas furnaces do; however, that doesn’t mean it’s safe for you to fiddle around inside the cabinet trying to perform haphazard repairs without the proper training. A high voltage shock is always a possibility, and you could easily damage other parts inside the cabinet. Call in an electrical repair specialist with solid HVAC credentials to investigate the problems with your furnace and apply safe and effective repairs.

Comfort Zone Heating & Air provides quality furnace repair to Atlanta, GA , and our 24/7 emergency service means you never have to wait too long to get your home warm again. Call us whenever your electric furnace misbehaves, and whether it’s a faulty relay or another malfunction, we can fix it!

The post How a Faulty Relay Affects Your Electric Furnace appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

How Can Heating Maintenance in Atlanta Protect My Comfort?

Tue, 15 Oct 2013 13:21:00 GMT

Our mild climate is one of the benefits of living here, and your heating system tends to get an easier workload as a result. Ironically, that actually makes routine maintenance from a qualified expert even more important than it might be elsewhere in the country.

Scheduling maintenance is just as important as calling for repair when your heater stops working. Indeed, it’s designed to prevent or at least offset the possibility of a full-blown repair. The technician cleans the components in the unit, checks for potential problems, and tightens any loose fittings, as well as replacing small worn parts like screws and washers. If larger repairs are required, the technician can spot them and set up a schedule for taking care of it, ideally before the weather gets too cold.

If you need repairs, it gives you the time to schedule them before the temperatures drop too low. More importantly, cleaner components and tighter fittings mean less stress on the heater itself, which means it will last longer and defers the need for significant repairs. This is especially important after long periods when the heater sits idle, as they would during our warm summers. Dust and build-up can cause more stress on the unit and increase the chance of a breakdown. But a professional maintenance visit just before heating season starts can reduce that stress and make sure your heater is functioning as it should.

If you’re asking “how can heating maintenance in Atlanta protect my comfort?” contact Comfort Zone Heating & Air for the answers. Our trained experts can set up a maintenance schedule for you that keeps your heater running smoothly and prevents the need for more expensive repairs. Your satisfaction is our chief concern, so don’t hesitate to call on us today !

The post How Can Heating Maintenance in Atlanta Protect My Comfort? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Commercial HVAC Installation in Atlanta, GA: Rooftop Units

Mon, 16 Sep 2013 18:07:00 GMT

Commercial HVAC units perform the same duties as HVAC systems in private homes: providing heated and cooled air to an entire building safely and efficiently. Businesses and other large building have unique needs, however, which must be addressed during commercial HVAC installation. Rooftop units make an elegant solution to the problem, and help businesses all over the world meet their heating and air conditioning needs.

A rooftop unit usually packages all the components of a heating and air conditioning into a single “box,” combining indoor and outdoor components together. The conditioned air is distributed via a large system of ducts, which can channel air from the unit into any individual offices or “zones” inside the building. The benefits of this system are not lightly dismissed.

In the first place, since most businesses don’t have a lot of free space to play with, the rooftop unit eliminates the need to create a space for both the indoor and out unit. Placing units on the rooftop also cuts down on the noise factor, since insulation and other factors muffles the sound for people working in the building below.

Then there’s the question of versatility. Because rooftop HVAC systems are self-contained and easy to install, building managers can add new units quickly and easily without having to replace the entire system. New rooftop units can be connected to existing ductwork without a huge amount of fuss, and the resulting “zone control” from multiple units lets individual offices inside the building tailor the temperature to suit their particular needs.

That’s important here in Georgia, because misgauging the heating and air conditioning needs of a given building can have disastrous consequences. Rooftop units provide a solution that won’t break the bank, provided you hire someone who knows the specifics of commercial HVAC installation. We can install your system with speed and efficiency, then set up a regular maintenance program to keep it running as it should. Contact us today to talk about your commercial HVAC installation in Atlanta.

The post Commercial HVAC Installation in Atlanta, GA: Rooftop Units appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Loud Fan Noises: An Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair Tip

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:48:00 GMT

Does your AC make a loud noise during operation? If so, then you should not hesitate to get it looked at by a professional technician. Your AC is a complex system with many different components, all of which cooperate to keep you comfortable during the spring and summer months. You should expect a certain amount of noise during operation. Every HVAC system makes sounds that are related to the operation of its fans, but when these sounds become loud, or seem unusual, it is cause for concern. Whatever you do, make sure you hire a reputable, qualified technician to assess the problem. Call Comfort Zone today for comprehensive Atlanta air conditioning repair services.

There are two major fans that run within your air conditioning system: the blower motor fan that is part of your indoor unit, and the condenser fan, which pulls air through the condenser coils in order to condense the refrigerant. Let’s take a look at a couple of potential reasons for the fan noise in your AC:

Faulty bearings: Your fans have bearings to reduce friction during operation. However, like any other aspect of the system, if dirt or dust gets inside these bearings, then it can lead to problems with your cooling. Faulty bearings can lead to a wobbling fan, and this can make a horrible racket. Dry bearings also tend to make a grinding sound.
Fan blade damage: Both your indoor blower motor fan and the outdoor exhaust fan are subject to wear and tear. If you find that your fan is making a banging or friction-related noise, then the fan blade may be out of whack. This can also damage other parts of the system.
Banging: If it sounds like there is something banging around on the inside of your unit, then there probably is. If a part becomes loose within your AC, then it may damage other components if it is neglected.

Call Comfort Zone today for superior air conditioning repair services in Atlanta, including AC fan repair.

The post Loud Fan Noises: An Atlanta Air Conditioning Repair Tip appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta Heating Question: What Really Happens During Heating System Maintenance?

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:00:00 GMT

At Comfort Zone Heating & Air , we often get asked if there is actually any benefit to getting regular maintenance on your heating system. We thought it would be helpful for our customers if we put together a summary of all of the tasks that get performed during one of our regular heating maintenance visits . Most people realize that regular tune-ups and oil changes are good for their car. However, fewer people realize that the same principle applies to their heating system. There are many benefits to heating maintenance in Atlanta which we will also discuss here.

Benefits of Regular Heating Maintenance

No matter what kind of heating system you have, regular maintenance has many benefits. Here are a few of them.

Reduced repairs – During regular maintenance visits, your Comfort Zone technician will be able to fix small problems before they develop into larger repairs .
Increased efficiency – With regular use, your system will begin to deteriorate. Getting the moving parts clean, lubricated and replaced can help improve your heating system’s efficiency.
Extended life – When you get the small problems with your heating system repaired during regular maintenance, you can potentially avoid catastrophic failures with your heating system.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

This is just a quick summary of what happens during a regular visit. The actual maintenance visit will be very thorough and precise. Obviously, depending on what kind of heating system you have, the maintenance tasks will vary.

Inspect heat exchanger – If you have a furnace, this will be a big part of the maintenance. Heat exchangers are responsible for discharging the harmful combustion gases that contain carbon monoxide.
Check burner – If you have a boiler or a furnace, this is important to make sure that the burner isn’t dirty and that all of it is lit.
Check pilot light/thermocouple – If you have an electronic igniter, this will be inspected and cleaned.
Check ducts and vents leading in and out of heating system
Check fan motor, fan belt, fan blades

All of this and much more will be done during regular heating maintenance in Atlanta . If you have any questions about what exactly you get with regular heating maintenance, call Comfort Zone today!

The post Atlanta Heating Question: What Really Happens During Heating System Maintenance? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

Atlanta AC Tip: Air Duct Components and Controls

Mon, 07 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

By way of various types of systems, cool air is distributed through a series of passages called ducts to create comfort and a feeling of luxury so common today we could easily take it for granted.

While the purpose of air conditioning in Atlanta is to provide unobtrusive comfort, the components under the floor, behind the walls, alongside of the house or up on the roof are very real.

Basic Conditioning

Based on the principal that heat gravitates to cooler temperatures, most systems of air conditioning utilize a process of making a chemical rapidly transform from gas to liquid and back again to absorb and redistribute unwanted heat. Known as refrigerants, these chemicals are chosen for their properties to expand and contract at low temperatures. Pressure is added by a compressor or released in coils to accelerate the transformation.

Likewise (and more obviously), heat is produced typically by a controlled flame and transferred to eagerly awaiting air. In both cases, at an exchange point, the air is conditioned and blowers circulate the air to and from the rooms through the ductwork.

Ducts

Forced air heat in many older homes has ductwork hanging between the joists. They are commonly made of metal, take up a lot of space and are prone to rattle. The one big advantage, it was discovered, was that they were all set in place to distribute cool air as well as heat.

Advances in technology have increased the insulation capacities and decreased the sizes of ductwork so that more and more space can be treated with better value and less structural impact. This is due in large part to the highly efficient heating and cooling systems which are available today.

Enhancing Control

Although the movement of air is fairly simple (creating a “breeze”), efficiency is increased by controls that monitor, increase and decrease the amount and temperature, isolate sections and filters and adjusts humidity. What began as a simple manual turn of a lever, technology again now makes possible fully automatic control of everything from a remote location with a smart phone.

In between are thermostats, dampers, zone controls and relay switches to accommodate all of the many varieties we have found to take care of our most basic creature comfort. For more information about how you Atlanta air conditioner works, give Comfort Zone Heating & Air a call!

The post Atlanta AC Tip: Air Duct Components and Controls appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing .

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