Purl's Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Fresno’

How Does a Thermostat Work?

Friday, August 16th, 2013

The thermostat serves as the control panel for your air conditioning system, allowing you to set the temperature and cool your house. Older thermostats used mercury switches to function, while newer ones are almost exclusively digital: allowing them to add convenient features like automatic activation. You may wonder how exactly they work, especially in an area like Fresno where temperatures climb during our hot Central Valley summers. The specifics depend on the type of thermostat you have.

Older thermostats placed several wires in a small vial which contained a measure of mercury. One wire stays in contact with the mercury at all times. The other two sit on either side of the vial and are attached to thermometer coils on the ends. When you adjust the heat or the cooling controls, the thermostat tips the vial, putting the mercury in contact with one of these wires and activating the heating or cooling cycle. The coils unwind until they tip the vial again, moving the mercury and shutting the system off.

Digital thermometers are much more complex, utilizing electronic components to perform the same function as mercury thermometers. Specifically, they use a device called a thermistor, which permits shifts in electrical resistance when the temperature changes. A microcontroller can gauge the level of resistance in the thermistor and convert that to an actual number. When that number is hit, the system turns the heat or the cool air on and off as needed. That allows users greater control over the process. For instance, they can set the thermostat to automatically turn on at a specific time, then turn off again when the goal temperature is reached.

When thermostats break down, it pays to call on an air conditioning professional in Fresno to enact repairs. The mercury in older thermostats is hazardous and requires a qualified air conditioning technician to approach properly. Newer thermostats may utilize a number of different components, and still require the proper know-how to properly connect to your air conditioning system. If you are experiencing problems with your thermostat, or you’d like to replace an older model with something more up to date, contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Our service technicians can travel to anywhere in the Fresno, CA area and can handle whatever air conditioning needs you may have.

Tags: Fresno, Thermostats
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How Does a Thermostat Work?

New Residential New Construction Air Conditioning Installation

Friday, August 9th, 2013

Are your building the home of your dreams? Or just constructing a second home that you can rent out? Whatever your plans are for that new plot of land, you need to make sure that it has the HVAC it needs to offer comfort year-round. During the summer months, it gets hot in Fresno, and your air conditioning system needs to be able to fend off the heat of the sun. The best way to start off your home on the right foot is with a professionally installed air conditioning system that matches the unique needs of your new home. At Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning, we offer excellent new construction air conditioning installation throughout the Fresno area, for homes of all shapes and sizes.

There are various considerations to keep in mind when thinking about your new HVAC system. Here are just a handful:

Size. When it comes to new HVAC installation, few things are as important as the size of the system. Your HVAC project manager will look closely at various parameters when determining how much cooling you need to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient. A load calculation of the living space will take into consideration not only the volume of indoor air, but also the condition of the windows and doors. When that’s done, we can then recommend a variety of system and brand options depending on your cooling preferences.
Budget. Another important consideration must be your budget. How much are you willing to spend? How important is long-term energy savings to you? When it comes to choosing a new system, it can make things a lot easier when you have a ballpark range for how much you can spend on your HVAC system. Working in consultation with a professional to figure out an accurate estimate is also essential.
Ducts or no ducts? New residential HVAC construction has a certain advantage over working on existing systems. Installing ductwork when the walls are open and there is plenty of space is often far easier than having to replace ducts that were installed years ago. But you also need to decide whether you want ducts at all, or whether you would like to opt for a ductless system.

Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today. We can make sure that your Fresno air conditioning services are well taken care of.

Tags: Fresno, New Construction
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on New Residential New Construction Air Conditioning Installation

Replace vs. Repair: How to Make the Call

Wednesday, July 24th, 2013

This summer you’re going to be running your air conditioning system a lot to stay comfortable in the heat. This increased use can result in you requiring more repair for your AC system. If your AC is in need of repairs make sure that you call the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. There are a few common issues that can arise and we wanted to put together a quick explanation of how you can know when you need repair and when it’s time to replace it.

Common Air Conditioning Repairs

If you’re having any of the following issues with your air conditioning system make sure that you call for repair immediately.

Not enough cooling – If your air conditioning system is blowing warm air or if it isn’t producing enough cooling, it likely means that your home is uncomfortable and that you need repair. It could be that the coils in your air conditioner are dirty, that you have low refrigerant, that the filter is clogged or the compressor is leaking.
Strange noises – If you start to hear any new noises from your air conditioner or if it starts to operate at a higher volume it usually means that something is wrong. Squealing can indicate that your fan motor belt is old and needs replacing. Hissing often means that you have a refrigerant leak somewhere. Gurgling can signify that you have low refrigerant.

Fresno Air Conditioning Repair Tip: When Should You Replace Your AC?

But when should you replace your air conditioning system as opposed to repairing it. Here’s a general guide for homeowners to use when they start to have issues with their air conditioner.

Age – Consider the age of your air conditioning system when it starts to break down. If your AC is old and it needs to be fixed, it could make a lot of financial sense to replace your system instead of paying to repair it.
Frequent repair – When you start to notice that your air conditioning system is requiring more frequent repair it could mean that it is on its way out and needs replacement.

If you need air conditioning system repaired or replaced, call the Fresno air conditioning specialists at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

Tags: Air Conditioning Repair, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on Replace vs. Repair: How to Make the Call

How To Minimize The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

Thursday, July 18th, 2013

Are you looking for a way to improve your cooling performance while also minimizing repair needs? With professional installation, you can make sure that your air conditioning performs properly and efficiently for years to come, but only when paired with the appropriate maintenance. Your air conditioner is comprised of various components, including a compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, and the blower motor, not to mention the lineset, weatherized housings, and electrical parts, among others. All of these parts have a role to play, and they all must cooperate in order to produce the cool air that you enjoy on a daily basis. But there comes a time when repairs are necessary and inevitable. Call the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for all of your AC repairs and maintenance service.

So, how do you minimize the need for air conditioning problems? Let’s have a look:

Clean and replace your air filter. The air filter is designed to prevent the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other debris on sensitive system components. That is its sole purpose, although there are some supplementary indoor air quality benefits as well. In order to do its job well, however, it needs to be kept clean. A dirty or clogged air filter can actually begin to work against your cool air instead of protecting it. Make sure you clean your filter regularly and replace it about once a month during the cooling season.
Keep your outdoor unit free and clear of debris. Whatever type of air conditioning system you have, some of your components are located in the outdoors, and for that reason, they are subject to much different environmental conditions. Dirt, dust and debris inside the housing should be cleaned by a professional, but make sure that you keep the surrounding area clear of debris that can get in the way of the refrigerant cycle.
Enroll in routine maintenance. There’s no substitute for pro maintenance. During these maintenance visits, your AC will be cleaned, tuned-up and thoroughly inspected to maximize cooling performance and efficiency.

Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for excellent air conditioning repair and maintenance services throughout the Fresno area.

Tags: Air Conditioning Repair, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How To Minimize The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

How Dirt and Dust Cause The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

Wednesday, July 10th, 2013

Are you suffering from inadequate cooling or stuffy air in your home? When was the last time you had your AC cleaned? Dirt and dust are the major causes of many air conditioning problems that can develop within your HVAC system, no matter what type it is. Professional installation should be followed up with routine maintenance if you want to make sure you get the most out of your AC for the years to come, but occasionally, such wear and tear takes a toll and repair needs become necessary. Make sure you hire a reputable Fresno air conditioning repair technician to take care of your repair needs. Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today.

Here are some common problems caused by dirt and dust:

Dirty condenser coils. For most types of air conditioning systems, your condenser coils are located outdoors where the compressor resides. Because of their location, they are subject to all kinds of debris and when the coils become dirty, they can no longer effectively dissipate thermal energy into the outdoor air. Because they play such an essential role in keeping your home cool, your coils must be kept clean at all times.
Frozen evaporator coils. The same goes for your evaporator coils. These indoor coils are also subject to dirt and dust accumulating on their surface. But the primary cause of frozen coils is also caused by debris accumulation. Your air filter is designed to protect the components of your AC, but when it becomes excessive dirty or clogged with debris itself, it can trap cold air inside the air handler, which can lead to frozen coils. By keeping your air filter clean at all times (check it at least once a month) during the cooling season.

Like any other mechanical system, your AC will simply not work well when it is subject to dust, dirt, and other debris. Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today for air conditioning repair service in Fresno, CA. We can handle any job, large or small.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How Dirt and Dust Cause The Need For Air Conditioning Repair Service

How Dirt, Dust, and Debris Can Impact Your Air Conditioner

Wednesday, June 19th, 2013

When the heat of summer is upon us, the last thing that you want to deal with is a broken down air conditioning system. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not realize that there are a number of issues that can develop with their air conditioning system that can really take a toll as the summer progresses. One such problem is the buildup of dirt, dust and debris on various components of your air conditioning system. We all like to maintain high indoor air quality in our homes to keep comfortable, but airborne pollutants can actually hinder the operation of your AC as well. Here are a few examples of this from the Fresno air conditioning repair technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

One major way that dirt, dust and other debris in the air in your home can impact the performance of your air conditioner is by clogging up the air filter in your AC system. While it is true that the whole purpose of this air filter is to trap such pollutants, many homeowners are mistaken as to why it does so. The purpose of this air filter is not to improve indoor air quality, but rather to protect the condition of your AC. It prevents dirt and debris from accumulating on the interior components of its system to keep it operating properly.

If, though, you do not change your air filter regularly, particulants may bypass the filter, free to build up within your system. The added airflow resistance a clogged filter creates can also decrease the efficiency of your system, as it works harder to force air through. This increased strain can damage your system.

When dirt, dust and other debris builds up on vital components, such as your evaporator coils, your air conditioner will not be able to cool your home efficiently or effectively. Your condenser coils can ice up, which will prevent them from functioning properly. Do not let dirt on your coils hinder the performance of your air conditioning system.

For more information about the impact of dirt and other pollutants on your air conditioning system, contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today. We have the tips you need to cool your home effectively and reliably. Let our Fresno air conditioning repair pros help you keep your cool this summer.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How Dirt, Dust, and Debris Can Impact Your Air Conditioner

The Relation between Air Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

Tuesday, June 18th, 2013

The air conditioning system in your home moves a ton of air during its operation. It is responsible for pushing huge volumes of air through your ductwork and into your home. Because of that, it has a huge impact on the quality of the air that it is moving. The Fresno air conditioning professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning have years of experience working with all different kinds of AC systems and air quality products. We wanted to share a little bit about how your AC can impact your home’s air quality.

Air Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

Your air conditioning system is a huge component of your home. But it can do more than just cool the air in your home—it can also be used as a powerful indoor air quality control system. If you need any type of air conditioning services in Fresno, CA, just call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Check out a few of the ways that you can use your air conditioning system to clean your air.

Humidity control – Your air conditioning system naturally provides dehumidification. As the warm air form your home passes over the cooling coils, the moisture gets deposited on them in the form of condensation. Running your air conditioning system is a great way to not only cool your home but also keep humidity under control. The Fresno air conditioning professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning can repair any issue that you might be having with your AC system.
Air filters – Many different brands of air filtering products can be installed in the air handler or ductwork of your AC system. These filters remove a large range of contaminants like dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen and many other pollutants. By running your air conditioning system you actually can get cleaner air.
Germicidal lights – UV germicidal lights are another great way that you can clean your air just by turning on your AC. UV germicidal lights are also installed in your air handler or ductwork. They destroy organic contaminants like viruses, mold spores and bacteria as they pass through the ducts and the UV light.

If you’re interested in air conditioning installation, repair or maintenance in Fresno, CA, call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. We can also talk with you about improving the quality of air in your home with air filter, duct cleaning, UV germicidal lights and more.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Fresno, Indoor Air Quality
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on The Relation between Air Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

What You Need to Know About Your Air Conditioning Installation

Wednesday, June 5th, 2013

When it comes time to have a new air conditioning system installed there are a few considerations that you need to make. The Fresno air conditioning installation professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning have years of experience installing all different makes and models of AC units and we can help you pick out a new system that matches your home’s needs and your budget. We wanted to help our customers with their new AC system by putting together a few of the things that they should consider before getting an air conditioning installation.

Fresno Air Conditioning Installation

Whether you’re having a new air conditioning system installed in a new home or if it has come time to replace your current system, getting professional installation for your new AC unit is normally recommended. One of the most common causes of air conditioning problems is poor installation. There are a number of things that can go wrong with your new air conditioning system if you don’t get professional air conditioning installation in Fresno. These are a few of the things that you may want to think about before you decide which system to get for your home.

SEER rating – The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) describes how much cooling a unit produces and how much energy they use to do that. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system is. Typically, a SEER rating of 14 is required to receive Energy Star certification.
Cooling capacity – You want to make sure that your new air conditioning system is capable of providing enough cooling for your home. But you also don’t want to get one that is too large. Finding the right-sized system is one of the most important steps in the process and one that a professional contractor will help you with.
Type of system – When it comes to air conditioning systems, there are a variety of systems to choose from. Of course there is the standard central air conditioning system. But there are a couple other types that you may want to consider.
- Heat pumps – If you’re interested in a high-efficient and convenient system that provides both heating and cooling then a heat pumps is a great option. These types of systems are very durable and offer consistent heating and cooling.
- Ductless mini split systems – Ductless mini split air conditioning and heating systems are another high-efficiency type system. They allow homeowners to avoid the energy loss that is generally associated with ducts. They also provide zone control so that homeowners can control the temperature in different sections of their homes independently of each other.

No matter what kind of system you want, the Fresno air conditioning installation experts at Purl’s Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning can get the job done fast and with good quality.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Installation, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on What You Need to Know About Your Air Conditioning Installation

Air Conditioning Repair: The Hazards of Dirt and Dust

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

With a high-quality air conditioner, teamed with a professional installation and routine maintenance, you can get a great performance from your home cooling system. Of course, there is no way to keep your air conditioning system completely problem free forever. Eventually you are going to have to schedule service with a professional Fresno air conditioning repair technician. When you do, call the pros at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Our team has the skill and training necessary to ensure that you are able to operate your air conditioning system with the consistency and quality that you deserve. Here is some information to consider about how even dirt and dust can impact the performance of your air conditioning system.

All homes have some amount of dirt, dust and other airborne pollutants within. If you live near a major roadway or construction sites you may have a higher concentration of such substances in your home. While dirt and dust may see like a minor annoyance of everyday life, it is actually possible for these pollutants to seriously damage your air conditioning system. That is why it is so important that you change the air filter in your air conditioning regularly.

Most homeowners do not realize that the air filter installed in their air conditioning system is not really intended to improve indoor air quality. Rather, it is there to protect your air conditioning equipment itself. If dirt and dust are allowed to build up within your air conditioner, it can have a detrimental effect on the performance of the system. If, for instance, dirt is allowed to build up on the coils of your air conditioning system, it can cause them to freeze over. Your comfort will suffer, as will the condition of your air conditioner.

If your air filter is too dirty, it can also make it difficult for your air conditioner to force air throughout the system. This increased airflow resistance can put extra strain on your AC, forcing it to work harder than it should have to in order to cool your home. This will cause it to work less efficiently, and eventually your AC may be damaged by the wear and tear caused by the extra work.

To learn more about the effects of dirt and dust on your air conditioning system, contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today. We have the answers to all your questions. When it comes to your Fresno air conditioning repair needs, you can always count on Purl’s.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Fresno
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on Air Conditioning Repair: The Hazards of Dirt and Dust

Spring & Summer HVAC tips to help you reduce your energy bills and save money

Thursday, May 9th, 2013

There are several ways to reduce energy bills, save money and avoid costly repairs. Here are 10 ways from Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning to help you reduce your spring and summer cooling costs in Madera and Fresno, CA.

Schedule your air conditioning system to be serviced and ready for the summer season. This will ensure you are running at peak efficiency. Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning has a NATE certified and trained team of service technicians to help you get your air conditioning system ready for the HOT summer in Fresno, CA. When your cooling system does not have to work extra hard it will save you money. The best time to have your air conditioner serviced in Fresno, CA is before the hot temperatures become extreme.
Install a programmable thermostat to help reduce energy costs. Set your thermostat for your family’s home comfort level when you are home, and decrease temperatures in the when you away. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, raise the thermostat level in your home by several degree’s while you are away to cut energy consumption. New advances in technology offer Wi-Fi capable thermostats for additional cost savings. For a full line of energy saving thermostats, visit the experts at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning in Madera, CA.
Change the air filters for your HVAC system regularly. A dirty air filter can increase energy consumption and damage your equipment leading to poor performance or early failure. Make sure your air filter is the sized properly for your system.
Keep the shades and window coverings closed to reduce radiant heat from the sun.
Consider sealing your cooling ducts in the attic. Sealing your duct work can improve air flow and increase the efficiency of your HVAC system by as much as 20 percent. Purl’s Sheet Metal specialists can test your duct work for airflow leakage and seal the duct work if needed.
Turn off electronic appliances when not in use. Use the dishwasher, washing machine & dryer in the evening and in “off” peak energy hours.
Plant trees or shrubs to shade the southern facing windows.
Keep the ducts and vents in the house open to assure good air flow.
Check the weather stripping around the windows, doors and attic. Seal any area’s where air may be leaking.
If you have older cooling equipment, (10 yrs. or older), you might consider replacing it with a new high efficiency cooling system. If your system is not keeping your home comfortable, contact our professional team at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning to find out what new options are available. In Fresno CA, the hot weather can be extreme and last for months. Upgrading your home cooling equipment is a great way to cut your annual energy bills. In the summer months there are often great factory rebates and financing options available.

Tags: Energy Savings, Fresno, Madera, Spring, Summer
Posted in Air Conditioning, Duct Sealing, Go Green, Home Improvement, Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on Spring & Summer HVAC tips to help you reduce your energy bills and save money

Purl's Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Blog