Is It Worth It to Replace a Furnace?

As you know, a furnace is an expensive HVAC appliance that almost all homes have. A furnace contributes to a comfortable stay during the winter season. Hence, you have to ensure that your furnace works efficiently throughout the season.

When a furnace frequently troubles its owners, they wonder whether they should repair it or go for replacement. Carter Heating & Cooling provides the best heating service in Bowling Green and our technicians have compiled this guide to help you understand the points to consider when to either repair or replace your furnace.

Points to Consider to Decide Whether to Repair or Replace

Owners should know some basic points that determine whether the furnace needs a quick repair job or a replacement schedule. Knowing these points can help save the time and money of the owners:

  • Carbon Monoxide Leakages

Carbon monoxide is a by-product of the ongoing combustion process in your furnace. If your furnace has a yellow flame and you feel nauseous frequently, these may be the signs of carbon monoxide leakages. You should replace your furnace as soon as possible in this situation.

  • Age of Your Furnace

After a fixed number of years, your furnace stops working efficiently, no matter how many repair jobs it receives. If your furnace is over fifteen years old, you should save money on its repair jobs and save it for a replacement.

  • Cost of a Repair Job

The final bill of your repair job depends on how much time your technician had to spend on it. If the repair job bill is near to or more than half the price of a new furnace, you should contact our heating service technician in Bowling Green to install a new furnace.

  • Energy Bill Amount

Your furnace should not consume high energy when it works in the winter season. However, your furnace may be the culprit if your energy bills rise exponentially even when you do not start using a new electrical appliance. Contact our technician to check whether your furnace is behind this rise.

  • Efficiency Levels

As we said, an old furnace cannot function efficiently. However, sometimes, new furnaces may not function efficiently as well. In such cases, you should not force your system to work continuously and contact your technician for furnace repair services in Bowling Green, KY.

  • Unwanted Noises

A furnace vibrates while working, so you may hear a slight buzzing sound when the system works. However, if you hear loud noises like banging and ringing, you should immediately contact our technician for a repair job. Delaying to contact our technician may lead to a serious problem in the future.

  • Selling Your Home

If you may sell your home within the next few years, you should replace your furnace and other HVAC appliances to get a better and higher resale value for your property.

Summary

Carter Heating & Cooling provides the best heating service in Bowling Green and surrounding areas. We ensure you receive the best value for your money invested with us. We use our extensive knowledge and experience to fix your problems.

Contact us at (270) 282-1183 or email us to contact our HVAC experts, who are skilled and certified to resolve any HVAC issue in no time.

7 Important Tips For Home Heating System Maintenance

Heating systems ensure people remain comfortable in their surroundings. The goal of heating equipment is to keep your home’s interior at a suitable temperature. Heating systems play an important role determining quality of life.

Hiring HVAC specialists is the best way to ensure that your system operates effectively. Carter Heating and Cooling offer quality and reasonably priced heating services in Bowling Green and surrounding areas. 

Seven Important Tips for Maintaining your Home’s Heating System

  • Maintain the Heat Pump

Scheduling a heating service tune-up by Carter Heating and Cooling in Bowling Green is suggested before winter. There is a possibility that your heat pump may have developed wear and tear difficulties over the previous cooling season.

  • Know the temperature settings

If you wish to heat your house, adjust your pump to the heat setting. You should activate the emergency mode when the pump is malfunctioning or covered in ice. Remember that you don’t always need to alter the thermostat’s setting as it has an automatic setting for when the temperature drops.

  • Clear Snow and Debris from Outdoor Units

Each heat pump has a component that is installed outside. As the weather cools and the leaves start to fall, they may clog the fan on your outside unit. Furthermore, during severe winter storms, snow might build up on the outside unit of your heat pump. Google ‘furnace replacements near me’ online, to get it cleaned by an HVAC professional.

  • Replace and Clean the Filters

Poorly maintained filters or heating systems are frequently unclean. It results in dust and allergens. Replace your filters if you want to avoid health problems. To clean and replace the filters, get in touch with the experts of Carter Heating and Cooling for furnace repair in Bowling Green, KY.

  • Clean Up the Ducts of your System

Inspecting the ducts in your heating system is recommended. To avoid problems with the system, you should engage an HVAC professional from Carter Heating and Cooling for furnace repair in Bowling Green, KY, to clean your ducts.

  • Grease Oil Ports

This won’t be essential if you recently installed a new furnace at your home. However, you should oil your HVAC system at least once a year if it’s an older model. By doing so, the shaft’s efficiency will increase, producing more heat.

  • Retrofitting

Your heating system is retrofitted to incorporate any HVAC technology, making it more practical to operate. For retrofitting, Google ‘furnace replacement near me’ online, to get it done for your heating system.

Services for Optimum Performance for your HVAC System

Hiring HVAC specialists is the best way to ensure that your system operates effectively. We at Carter Heating and Cooling offer quick, precise, and reasonably priced heating services. Your heating system’s ducts, filters, coils, and other components will all be inspected, repaired, and checked for leaks by our professionals.

If your HVAC system isn’t in good operating order, make sure you are not overspending on frequent repairs. For more information, contact us now! 

How Much Does Snaking A Drain Cost?

Hiring a professional to clean your drains can be costly, even though it is an essential part of home maintenance. If your home’s main drain is clogged, you may be debating whether to invest in a drain snake. Drain snaking is often less expensive than other methods. However, the final price depends upon several factors, one of which is the plumber you select.

Cleaning the drains in your home is an important part of keeping your plumbing in good working order. You can try using a drain cleaner or a snake for minor obstructions. The expertise of a professional is usually necessary to remove more stubborn blockages. If the clog has spread from your toilet or bathtub to the main line, the plumbing service in Bowling Green can remove it. 

1. What is Snaking a Drain?

A plumbing snake is a long, bendable section of metal tubing. There is a corkscrew-like projection on the end of this pipe that you can use to unclog it if it becomes clogged with something like a clump of hair or a buildup of food scraps and grease.

If you twist and push the snake against the clog, it will break up into smaller pieces that eventually drain away, clearing your drain. Once the snake locates the blockage, it will immediately begin dismantling it to restore normal water flow. You can remove most clogs with a snake, and the entire process usually only takes a few minutes. 

2. How Much Does Drain-Snaking Cost?

Snaking the main drain can be more expensive than snaking a secondary drain. Depending on the clog’s severity and the snake’s length required to clear, the cost of drain snaking can range from about $350 to $500 or more.

In extreme cases, you may require hydro-jetting services to remove the obstruction from the pipe. The price to snake the main drain can increase due to factors like the drain’s severity, source of the blockage, location, and any unexpected damage. 

3. Choosing The Best Plumbers

There are many good reasons to have a professional plumber take care of your plumbing issues instead of trying to do it yourself, including the risk you’re taking. Cleaning a drain is an unpleasant task. You should hire a professional if you don’t want to touch grime, grease, hair, and many other obstructions.

Experts in plumbing are conditioned to complete their tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible. The time it takes to rent the necessary equipment and other materials to clear the drain on your own may exceed the cost of hiring a plumber. Unless it’s an emergency, calling around for multiple quotes is the best way to find a reliable plumber. 

Hire Our Experts.

Instead of attempting to unclog the drain yourself with a snake and chemical drain cleaners, call Carter heating and cooling to handle the problem. By hiring our experts, you can rest assured that we will do the job efficiently and effectively. Ring us at (270) 282-1183 to schedule an appointment with us for plumbing repair in the Bowling Green.

5 Ways To Stay Cool Without Blasting The AC

Everyone wants to stay cool during the hot summer months. However, excessive AC use can result in hefty electricity bills. According to plumbing service in Bowling Green experts, there are certainly a ton of clever tricks that can keep you cool without an air conditioner.

On the other hand, if your first concern is a high electricity cost, you might consider innovative cooling options like a smart thermostat or a smart AC controller for mini-split, windows, or portable air conditioners. According to plumbing repair in Bowling Green experts, these controllers are excellent for the environment and help reduce cooling costs. 

1. Tips to Stay Cool Without Running The Air Conditioning.

Keep Your Curtains and Blinds Closed.

Replace your light-colored summer drapes with some heavy, thick curtains, or buy blinds or shades. Your home’s interior temperature can be dramatically decreased by limiting the quantity of sunshine coming in. If you have windows that face the sun during the morning and afternoon, close the drapes or blinds to prevent the sun from entering your home directly. 

Set Up Your Fan

Fans do not assist in cooling the air; instead, they only create a motion in the atmosphere that aids in removing sweat from the body. The blower needs to be mounted as high as you can. The blower must be pointed upward for hot air to leave the room. Place the fans in the top-story windows of your two-story home. Ceiling fans can also be helpful, but be sure they rotate against the clock. 

Nighttime Window Opening

As the temperature drops to tolerable levels at night, there is a tangible sense of relief. Open the windows or ventilators to allow fresh air to take advantage of the cooler weather. 

Before Bed, Take a Cold Bath or Shower

Your body temperature will drop from a cold bath or shower, which will help you stay cooler. According to plumbing repair in Bowling Green experts, a powerful trifecta can be created by drinking water to keep your body as cool as possible.

Sleep in The Cellar

If sleeping somewhere other than your bedroom is an option, do so if you find that you can not sleep through the night due to heat exhaustion. Heat rises, so if your house has a lower level or a basement, consider setting up a temporary sleeping place to enjoy cooler nighttime temperatures. 

2. Take Advantage of Frozen Deserts.

It could temporarily help to consume an ice pop or ice cream to cool yourself. However, limit your sugar intake if you are already overheated or at risk of becoming overheated. Sugar speeds up the metabolism and makes you feel warm inside. Therefore, while the chilly treat may be beneficial, the additional sugar may not.

Summer months are great when you can stay cool in your home. ACs aren’t always available, even though they are our go-to solution under these conditions. You may therefore need to devise a way to stay cool without an air conditioner. Contact Carter Heating and Cooling for plumbing service in Bowling Green. 

9 Tips For Preparing Your Air Conditioning Unit This Fall

Fall is upon us, and you know what that means—it’s time to get your air conditioning unit service in Bowling Green! With temperatures dropping and the season changing, you’ll want to ensure your air conditioning unit is in top shape before the cold weather hits.

The air becomes drier and dustier, which leads to more contaminants in your home. One way to prepare is to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the fall season. Here are nine tips for preparing your air conditioning unit this fall:

9 Tips For Preparing Your Air Conditioning Unit This Fall

Turn Off The A/C When It's Not In Use

Owing to rising power bills and the fact that air conditioners are among the largest energy consumers, you should run your air conditioner as little as possible and turn off the AC unit when not in use to save energy.

Check The Filters Regularly

It is critical to keep an eye out for clogged filters because obstruction of these filters can render the AC unit inefficient. Filters keep dirt and debris out of your system, allowing it to run efficiently. Changing filters before fall is a given.

Schedule An Annual Checkup With A Professional

To avoid system failures, your air conditioning unit should be serviced regularly. Professionals recommend servicing the AC unit in Bowling Green twice a year to ensure proper operation.

Repair Any Problems As Soon As Possible, And Don't Try To DIY

It entails repairing and resolving air conditioner problems caused by frozen coils, wiring issues, and other factors at a low cost. It is always preferable to hire a trained technician to perform the repairs.

Adjust Your Thermostat Setting

Correct temperature control settings provide the ideal balance of comfort and energy savings. Frequent adjustments consume energy, whereas constant temperatures increase efficiency.

Please Turn Off The Air Conditioner When It Rains Or Snows

Although rainwater does not affect the AC unit, flood water can cause a short circuit. A power surge caused by lightning will damage the outdoor compressor and prevent refrigerant from flowing through the system.

Move Furniture Away From The Vents

Putting furniture over a vent is not advised because it prevents proper airflow and forces your HVAC system to work harder to cool or heat your home.

Clean Up Leaves And Debris Around Your AC Unit

Depending on the weather, leaves, dust, and dirt can enter the system and clog it.

Check Vents For Potential Blockages

Congested air ducts in your home will prevent proper airflow, resulting in poor indoor air quality.

Conclusion

At Carter HVAC, our highly trained technicians provide comprehensive air conditioning services in Bowling Green, KY, as well as a maintenance plan for your heating and cooling systems. Please make an appointment with us today.

What Happens If We Don’t Use AC For A Long Time?

It’s no mystery that whenever a gadget is left unused for an extended period, it develops problems, which includes your air conditioner. What happens if the air conditioner isn’t turned on for an extended duration? Will there be any issues with the unit?

There’s nothing wrong with being concerned about the state of your air conditioner. After all, taking care of your appliance ensures that it will work effectively. If it fails to do so, its performance will decline faster than necessary. AC installation in Bowling Green is here to take care of your needs. 

Important Precautions to Take If your AC Doesn't Work for Several Months

The good news is that if you take the following steps when you’re not using your air conditioner, you won’t have any more major issues down the line.

  • Ensure your Air-Conditioner is Clean:

Dirt and grime will always collect on various goods. These undesirable particles may find their way into your appliances through holes and settle on the various parts inside.

The major problem with dust is that it can create a layer and build up over time, interfering with the proper operation of your air conditioner.

  • Stick to the Maintenance Schedule:

The maintenance schedule for your air conditioner considers the time when you won’t be using it. Never assume that the technician didn’t consider this time. You’ll only invite difficulty if you put off maintenance. Sticking to the schedule as strictly as possible will offer you the best chance of getting the most out of this substantial investment.

Maintaining your device is vital to guarantee that everything functions properly. During the maintenance phase, you’ll be able to spot any possible issues that haven’t yet manifested into an ugly and costly reality. It is advised that all homeowners arrange their air conditioning service contracts before switching the AC on.

  • Run the Air-Conditioner on as you Follow a Gap:

Apart from running your new air conditioner fan, as previously mentioned, you also need to know how to turn on your air conditioner after a lengthy period of inactivity. Make sure to run the fan for another 20 to 30 minutes. Make sure you don’t switch on the cooling while doing so.

You may also detect a burning odor, although this is only dirt that has gathered within. This odor will dissipate in 10 to 15 minutes on its own. When all the dust has been burned away and no odors remain, you can turn on the air conditioning and enjoy all of the benefits your AC offers.

Conclusion

Make sure you finish the preventive maintenance before restarting the machine. It lets you detect any potential issue before it becomes a problem.

Bowling Green HVAC Contractors are here to help you solve all services related to HVAC. We provide the best technicians. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! 

What Could Happen if the Air Conditioner Isn’t Installed Correctly?

Suppose you’ve recently purchased a new air conditioner for your home or an office and are waiting for it to be installed. This is worth remembering that the AC installation can go wrong for various reasons, which can cause the system to malfunction. 

You can save money by contacting AC maintenance in Bowling Green to install the unit. These are several indicators that will assist you in identifying the warning signs from your air conditioning system if it isn’t installed properly. 

Selecting The Wrong AC Size

Picking the wrong size air conditioner is one of the most common errors while installing an air conditioner. Failure to identify a suitable size can have significant ramifications, including AC malfunction and energy-saving issues. 

Installing an air conditioner that is big for your home will cause short cycling, whereas installing an air conditioner that is tiny for your home will cause overwork. The AC will suffer undue stress and strain in both instances, eventually leading to its premature downfall. 

Airflow Is Low

Low airflow is a common issue brought on by defective air conditioning systems. Many cooling coils could be seeping into your subfloor or walls if the indoor unit isn’t connected directly to your home’s ducts. These gasses are a waste of both time and money. Inaccurate load calculations can also result in low airflow. You might finish up with an AC system with less or more potential if the technician doesn’t correctly calculate your home’s cooling load.  

AC Began To Produce A Loud Sound

Your air conditioning system’s outdoor compressor should be set on a concrete surface. The pad’s sizes should be large enough to accommodate all four legs of the unit. The pad should be level as well. Every refrigerating cycle will shake, wobble, and vibrate the condenser if it isn’t level. It will become even more unbalanced as a result of this. The shaking may cause excessive damage to mechanical components, detectors, and cables. Loud noises can also be caused by incorrect tightness or inadequate lubrication of the air conditioner’s moving parts. 

Improper Cost Of Refrigeration

When filling a new air conditioning system with refrigerant, expert personnel should refer to the design instructions. Inadequate coolant charging can result in quality and energy troubleshooting. If there’s not enough refrigerant in the system, it won’t be able to cool or remove moisture from your home properly. When there is enough refrigerant in the air conditioner, it generates much more pressure, damaging the compressed air. 

Sensor Issues

A thermostat sensor was placed behind the control panel on room air conditioners and measured the evaporator coil’s air temperature. The air conditioner may cycle continually or act erratically if the detector is smashed out of place. Adjust the sensor’s place by carefully flexing the wire that holds it in a nearby place, the winding but not trying to touch it. 

Bottom Line

While it is critical to install an air conditioner, it is also critical to keep it installed correctly. A new air conditioner does not have to be a surprise expense. If you pay attention to your air conditioner’s performance, you’ll be able to tell when it’s time to replace it. Carter Heating and Cooling is the preferred HVAC company for AC maintenance in Bowling Green or AC repair in Bowling Green. This is a group of skilled staff who have been working for a long time. 

5 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Replacement

With summer around the corner, the sun reemerges, and temperatures heat up. You will want to make sure that your air conditioner is prepared to keep you cool. But how would you know if it needs to be replaced? Contact an HVAC specialist near you and get your air conditioner replaced if you see any of these signs. 

When Should You Replace Your Air Conditioner?

On average, the air conditioner lasts up to 10 to 15 years. The heating and cooling systems last longer when properly maintained, such as by regularly cleaning their filters and air ducts. 

When to replace the air conditioner depends on when you begin to notice that your air conditioner is working less effectively than before or you see that the temperature is not properly adjusting. You can contact Carter HVAC if you want to get AC service in Bowling Green. 

Five Signs Your AC Needs Replacement

Not Getting Cold Air

It is obvious, but there is probably something wrong with the air conditioner when there is no cool air. The possibilities are endless, from a low Freon level to a broken compressor. Call a professional, or if you have a warranty, claim it. There is no need to wait. If the repair is extensive, you should replace the air conditioner. 

The Airflow Is Not Excellent

Maybe you are getting cool air throughout the house, but you have noticed that the air conditioner is not pushing air out of the way as it used to. It could be because of many things, including issues with the air conditioner’s compressor or blocked vents. While it is possible to have a professional manage these repairs, you can contact an HVAC specialist near you, but it can be expensive to repair them depending on the age of the system and how damaged it is. When the cost of repairing is high, you might want to consider replacing it. 

Moisture And Leakage Around The Unit

Condensation around the AC is normal, but excessive leakage can cause a bigger problem. If there is a refrigerant leak or if you notice a large puddle of water around your unit, you may have a severe issue that needs to be addressed right away. Leaking coolant can cause health risks to you and your loved ones. Excessive water leakage can damage floors and furniture and lead to mold growth. 

Unusual Sounds

If there is a loud grinding, rattling, banging or squealing sound coming from your air conditioner. turn off your air conditioner system and contact an expert right away. These sounds often reflect severe issues like a belt slipping out of place or broken motor bearings. It can lead to costly repair or needs to be replaced if not addressed immediately.  

The Thermostat Isn’t Working

Occasionally, issues with the air conditioner have less to do with your central cooling unit and more to do with a faulty thermostat. A broken thermostat may not be cooling effectively in a particular area. If the other rooms feel fine and the issue is contained in one zone, it may be worth having an AC service check if the thermostat is at fault. If you are lucky, you need to replace the thermostat instead of the whole air conditioner. 

If you see these signs in your AC and need a service done, contact Carter HVAC or visit our website and make an appointment. We are one of the best AC services in Bowling Green. We have skilled professionals to help you. 

Why Should You Wait 3 Minutes Before Restarting The Air Conditioner?

Many people know that purchasing an air conditioner is one of the most effective ways to beat the summer heat. It is only true if the system has been adequately maintained. We provide AC service in Bowling Green that ensures that the system is in good working order and does not malfunction.

Why Should You Wait Three Minutes Before Restarting Your Air Conditioner?

When an air conditioner is turned on, the compressor creates refrigerant pressure. When the compressor is turned off, whether manually, by power outages, or by fulfilling thermostat demand, it must remain off for at least 3 minutes to enable the pressure in the system to equalize before it can be safely resumed.

This temperature equalization is required since one side is hot (greater pressure) while the other is cool (lower pressure). While the compressor is functioning, the flow of gas (refrigerant) avoids a “jolt or shock,” but when power is lost, both sides heat and cool more, respectively, owing to the lack of refrigerant gas flow. As a result, a restart in less than 2 minutes might harm.

If, Even Then, The System is Not Starting, Check The Following:

1. Examine the thermostat. Is it out of date? Installing a newer, programmable thermostat could help you save money and energy. We also offer AC repair services at Bowling Green.

2. Examine any exposed ductwork for signs of wear, which could be a source of cooling loss or inefficiency in the home.

3. Examine the air vents in your home. Items such as drapes, furniture, and toys obstructing airflow should be removed.

4. Examine the drain line. A drain near the indoor cooling coil is typically located in the basement above the furnace.

You can keep your air unit drain clear throughout the summer by flushing one cup of chlorine bleach down it and rinsing it with a gallon of water. The air conditioner drain lines become clogged when dirt accumulates on the indoor coil.

When the drain line becomes clogged, the water must go somewhere, resulting in a backup of water in the drain pan, which may cause severe water damage to your home. A professional should clean drain lines at least once a year.

6. Inspect circuits to ensure that all electrical connections are turned on.

7. Check that the furnace or air conditioning unit’s power is turned on. After that, inspect the outdoor equipment for overgrowth and wear. Outdoor Recreational Equipment Your system will not function without it.

8. Examine the outdoor condenser. Check for any obstructions in or near the equipment, and clean the area around it. Leaves, vines, and debris can clog interior components and impair performance. The panels are intended to protect the electrical connections.

9. Examine the refrigerant lines visually. Insulation should be installed on the ropes. Proper insulation will increase the system’s efficiency. Insulation and refrigerant lines should be repaired.

10. Examine the outdoor electrical wiring for signs of wear. Contact a professional before using your system if you notice any damage or wear.

11. Recognize when your air conditioner has reached the end of its useful life. Air conditioners have a useful life. Even if you keep your unit well-maintained, it will eventually wear out.

If still the problem persists, please contact us!

Does Sleeping in AC Cause Breathing Problems?

We usually don’t like to spend even an hour without AC during summer. Especially at night, we tend to sleep with the AC On. People are not aware of the harmful effect AC can have on their health if they spend most of their time under the cooling AC.

After AC installation in Bowling Green, we don’t turn our AC off until we are out. AC does have filters and multiple benefits, but as every coin has two sides, AC also has harmful effects. However, these problems have easy solutions, and we don’t have to stop using AC to prevent health issues. We have to be careful about the symptoms and how long to use AC.

Health Problems Due to AC

  • Respiratory problem

A clogged air filter gives rise to bacteria, and the moisture level inside AC also increases. This high moisture level gives birth to fungus and germs. The harmful components later circulate throughout our room.

We will feel the symptoms like coughing, breathing issues, sore throat, etc. Those already who have asthma or any respiratory infections will suffer more. If there is no cross-ventilation in the AC-enclosed room, breathing the stale air will also cause respiratory issues. The worst effect of this can be Hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

  • Infection

With the respiratory system getting weak, we can also have an infection. The rarest and the most dangerous infection due to AC is legionellosis.

When we breathe stale or unfiltered air, we can have digestion-related infections too. Nausea is one of its symptoms.

  • Headaches

Spending more time in an AC-installed room can lead to a headache. When the temperature around us keeps on changing, severe headaches become one of the common problems.

  • Skin related issues

The unfiltered air can lead to irritation in the eyes, itching, and allergies. In addition to this, a dehumidifier absorbs moisture from the air, and absorbs the moisture from our skin and body, leading to dry skin, hair loss, or dehydration.

Ways to Prevent The Harmful Effects of AC

  • If your AC uses water, do not let it stagnant
  • Clean the filters frequently
  • Drain lines must be cleaned
  • Never skip annual maintenance
  • Allow cross-ventilation in the AC room
  • Install a smart thermostat and set the timer at night so that it automatically stops after cooling the room
  • Do not spend the whole day in the AC rooms
  • Whenever you feel an increased humidity level or foul smell, call a technician

Proper AC maintenance will enhance the efficiency of AC filters and air quality. For this reason, you should never avoid the annual servicing of your air conditioning system.

For AC maintenance in Bowling Green, Carter Heating and Cooling service can help you with this. Though we are based in Bowling Green, our services are not limited to this area only.

We serve in Glasgow, Russellville, Franklin, and surrounding areas. We are known for our understanding and cooperative technicians, professionalism, and service quality. Call us now and give us a chance to serve you with our highly efficient services.