Before the hurricane hits

The most important thing for your AC’s hurricane protection is what you do before the storm to secure your system. Since hurricanes can cause power outages and other irregularities, you should consider pre-cooling your home. You can do this by setting the thermostat to a lower temperature than you might normally before the storm hits. As a result, when the air conditioning cannot be used, your home is still at a comfortable temperature.
However, after pre-cooling before the storm, make sure to turn your unit off. This will prevent the stress that is caused by sudden switching on and off of the unit when power is being erratic. It is also recommended to shut off the power from the thermostat and circuit breaker.

If the expected storm is to bring high winds, then it is recommended to cover and secure your AC. Once the unit is turned off, cover it with a tarp or plywood in order to keep falling debris from landing inside the unit or even causing damage if something larger such as tree branches falls.
Additionally, if your area is more prone to flooding your AC might not be on the ground level. In this case, you can use hurricane straps to keep it in place when high winds occur.

After the hurricane passes

Before going to turn your AC system back on after the storm, it is important to assess it for damages. If you turn it back on with debris stuck inside, it could cause problems internally. If your area flooded there could be internal water damage to your unit.

If the unit appears to be in order, you can start it back up. If left sitting too long after high-moisture weather, mold or other bacteria could begin to grow in your system.

If you see damage call a professional for assistance getting your AC back up to safe working conditions. If you are in the Pensacola, FL area and need help with AC protection or repairs call Hugh's Air Repair. 

Summertime is upon us. That means it's time to rely on the AC system for the summer months to make sure your house stays comfortable throughout the summer. One thing you shouldn't do though is just turn on the AC system and go. There are a few steps to take to make certain that your AC system will work at full strength for the summer season.

So what exactly are these steps? What should you do to protect your system and cool your home this summer? Learn eleven important steps to take so that you get the most out of your AC system and stay cool during the summer season.

CHECK YOUR THERMOSTAT
Step one is to check your thermostat and be sure you are happy with the settings. If you only have one temperature setting, it is probably an outdated unit and you should consider upgrading to a more energy efficient version.

CHECK YOUR DUCTWORK
Go over your ductwork, especially exposed ductwork, and look for signs of wear, cracks, holes and the like, which can lower the AC efficiency in the home, or could result in cooling loss.

CHECK YOUR AIR VENTS
Walk around your house and look at the air vents in your ceilings, floor boards, or wherever you have them. Remove items that might block airflow, and vacuum the dust out of them if needed.

CHECK YOUR DRAIN LINE
Usually mounted near your unit, you'll find a drain pipe or piece of PVC. Check this for cracks or leaks and depending on condition flush the line if warranted to keep the line clear.

CHANGE YOUR FILTER
If you haven't changed your filter recently, now is the time to do it. You should be changing your filter every three months (at the changing of the seasons is a good way to remember to do it).

CHECK CIRCUITS
Make sure all your electrical connections are on. Unless you've de-activated them, they probably are, but always check nevertheless.

BE SURE YOUR A/C UNIT IS TURNED ON
You'd be surprised how many problems with air conditioning come down to the unit being turned off. Just check that the power switch is on.

HEAD OUTDOORS TO INSPECT THE UNIT
Check your AC unit to be sure there's no blockage in or around it. Remove leaves, vines and debris as well as check for missing panels that protect electrical connections.

CHECK COOLANT LINES
Make sure your coolant lines look good and call in the pros if any repairs look like they are needed.

CHECK THE WIRING
Never touch live wires, but inspect them for damage or wear. If you see such damage, call a professional for service.

CALL THE PROFESSIONALS
If you're in the Pensacola, FL area and you need help servicing, repairing or replacing your HVAC unit give us a call for more information or to schedule an appointment today!

When you're looking for furnace repair services should you opt for a heat pump or a gas furnace?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Heat Pumps
Heat pump systems use electricity and are ideal for homes based in moderate climates. However, there are some pros and cons of these systems:

Efficiency: Many electric heat pumps are more energy-efficient when compared to gas-operated furnaces.
Installation Costs: Heat pump installation typically costs a lot less than furnace installation. Furnaces use extensive ventilation systems, which can add costs to homes that are ill-equipped for these specifics.
Operating Costs: In most areas, electricity rates fall much lower than the prices of natural gas. This means that heat pump systems can be less expensive to operate than gas-fired furnaces.
Noise: Heat pumps are generally quieter than furnaces.
Safety: There are no carbon monoxide poisoning risks associated with heat pumps.
Size: Heat pump systems require outdoor and indoor components, while gas-fired furnaces only have indoor parts.
Effectiveness: In periods of severe cold, a heat pump is not as capable as a gas furnace at heating a home.


Advantages and Disadvantages of Gas Furnaces
Gas-fired furnaces have been popular for decades as a way to warm homes. The advantages and disadvantages of this type of equipment include:

Lifespan: A gas-fired furnace typically lasts longer than a heat pump
Maintenance: Since gas-operated heaters are only used for a few months across a year, they require less maintenance than heat pumps.
Dependability: Gas-fired furnaces have very few mechanical parts in comparison to a heat pump, so less chance of breaking down.
Safety: Gas leaks could lead to fires or explosions.
Cleanliness: Gas combustion by-products can reduce air quality within a home.

Hugh's Aire Repair can repair all types of heat pumps and gas furnaces. If you require heating repair services in or around Pensacola, FL contact us to speak to a member of our team today.