Johnny On the Spot Blog: Archive for the ‘Heating’ Category

3 Furnace Odors and What They Mean

Sunday, February 10th, 2019

A well-maintained heating system should operate without any odor. If there’s an unusual smell coming from the vents in your Las Vegas, Nevada, home, try to determine the cause as quickly as possible. If you notice the scent is stronger when the heater cycles on, call Johnny On The Spot right away. You should never ignore furnace odors.

Rotten Eggs

The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs is something you should never ignore. Natural gas is invisible and odorless. However, gas companies add chemicals that will give it this unpleasant odor so you can detect a leak.

If you notice a smell like rotten eggs in your home, ventilate the space and get out of the house. Contact your gas company for further instructions, but do not stay inside if there is a potential gas leak.

Mustiness

A musty odor is unpleasant and can eventually affect your health. Quite often, this smell develops because of a dirty filter or filthy ductwork. Begin by changing your air filter regularly, especially if you have pets. If this doesn’t solve the problem, we’ll determine if air duct cleaning is necessary.

Burning Odors

When you first turn on your furnace during the heating season, you might notice a smell like something burning. This is merely dust burning off in the unused system. The odor will go away after your system runs for a few cycles. If you’re dealing with a persistent burning smell, it’s time to reach out to a professional for help. Our service specialists can pinpoint the cause and take corrective action.

If there’s a metallic scent, it might be an issue of damaged wires. Odors that seem electrical in nature could also indicate a problem with the motor. In these cases, you should turn off the furnace and contact us so that our service specialists can inspect the issue.

Take action as soon as you notice unusual furnace odors. Contact the experts at Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461. We offer prompt heating repairs that protect your home and system and keep you and your family safe.

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What a Blank Thermostat Screen Means

Monday, September 3rd, 2018

When your HVAC’s thermostat is in good working condition, you can easily adjust the indoor temperature in your Las Vegas, Nevada, home. However, your thermostat will eventually show signs of wear and may begin to malfunction over time. One common problem is nothing showing on the device. A blank thermostat display can result from several issues, many of which require only a simple fix. Find out some of the reasons your thermostat’s screen could go blank and what you can do.

Batteries Are Dead

While some HVAC thermostats run on the main power supply in homes, others use batteries that you will need to replace approximately once a year. If your thermostat runs on batteries and has a blank display, you may be able to get it working again by simply replacing old batteries.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

Your HVAC thermostat may be on the same circuit breaker as other devices that use a lot of power. If the breaker trips, it may cut off power to the thermostat, resulting in a blank screen. All you need to do to fix the problem is flip the circuit breaker switch on again.

Safety Switch Was Activated

Some HVAC systems will automatically activate a safety switch when they detect problems, in turn, shutting off the thermostat. During the warmer months, this can happen when the condensate pan overflows. Regardless of what problem triggers the safety switch, you should contact our service specialists for an inspection as soon as possible.

Your Thermostat Is Too Old

Your thermostat can last a long time. However, how well you use and care for the device are important factors. On average, a thermostat can work well for up to 15 years before you start to encounter problems. If you think age is a factor, our service specialists will help you to determine if you need a replacement.

If your thermostat is showing a blank screen, you won’t be able to make adjustments to the device or your system won’t work at all. Give us a call for repairs so that we can restore comfort as quickly as possible. If you need help with any HVAC thermostat problem, contact Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461.

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Why a Smart Thermostat Is the Ideal Option for Busy Professionals

Saturday, July 28th, 2018

You’re busy trying to strike the right balance between work and your personal life. You will, therefore, appreciate any solution that can help you save time and effort. When it comes to keeping your Las Vegas, Nevada, home comfortable, you can rely on a smart thermostat. These devices make home comfort a lot easier and more efficient. Find out why a smart thermostat is the ideal temperature-regulating device for busy professionals.

Automatic Adjustments

A smart thermostat can adapt to weather changes and automatically adjust to maintain comfortable temperature levels. In addition, these high-tech devices can help you manage temperatures to control indoor humidity levels. Regardless of weather conditions, you can use a smart thermostat to program settings according to your schedule. You also save time and minimize energy waste.

Monitor Energy Usage

A smart thermostat’s energy-tracking function is perhaps the most appealing feature for busy professionals. It can monitor your energy usage patterns and provide suggestions on how you can reduce your energy costs. Some smart thermostats have learning capability that enables them to study your usage patterns. The devices then adapt to automatically control the temperature to suit your schedule and preferences. Since you don’t need to program these thermostats manually, they are excellent time-saving devices.

Remote Access

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting temperatures based on whether you are awake, sleeping, at home, or away. When you are constantly on the move, you may sometimes forget to adjust the temperature. A smart thermostat enables you to check the temperature in your home from anywhere via your smartphone or tablet. No matter where you are, you can make changes to start cooling your home, so temperatures are ideal upon your return.

A smart thermostat is a worthwhile investment because of the convenience factor. These thermostats make temperature and humidity control easier and help you lower your energy bills. If you wish to replace your old thermostat with a smart thermostat, do not hesitate to call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461.

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How You Can Save Money With Duct Cleaning

Friday, July 13th, 2018

As you prepare your air conditioning system to beat the sweltering Las Vegas, Nevada, summer heat, one thing you should not overlook is the ductwork. Air ducts are channels that carry cool air from your AC to different parts of your home. While they do not require maintenance as often as the unit itself, they can get dirty or clogged over time. Contaminant buildup can contribute to air conditioning problems and poor indoor air quality (IAQ). If left unattended, dirty ductwork can put a big dent in your wallet. Discover how professional duct cleaning can help you save money.

Improved Energy Efficiency

A buildup of dust, dirt, and debris in your air ducts will restrict airflow and force your AC to work harder and longer. As a result, your AC will consume more energy and increase your utility bills. On the other hand, if your ducts are clean, your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard and will face less wear and tear. Clean ducts help you to lower your energy costs.

Prevent Costly Repairs

Besides using more energy, an air conditioning system with dirty or clogged ducts is more likely to experience mechanical problems. The extra effort required to keep your home cool will put additional strain on the unit, making it more vulnerable to malfunction or breakdown. Major air conditioning problems can be costly to repair and significantly shorten the lifespan of your system. Cleaning your air ducts regularly can help you avoid unnecessary repair costs.

Maintain Good IAQ

If your air ducts are dirty, the air that enters your home via the vents will also be contaminated. Poor air quality can lead to a wide range of health problems. If you notice symptoms such as eye irritation, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and breathing difficulty, these could be signs of poor IAQ.

If you need an experienced and qualified service specialist to inspect or clean your ducts, call Johnny On The Spot today at(725) 977-9461. We are happy to take care of your indoor comfort needs.

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Setting Your Thermostat to Keep Your House Cool All Summer Long

Monday, July 2nd, 2018

Keeping your Las Vegas, Nevada, residence cool during the hot summer months is vital for maintaining comfort. One way to sustain optimal temperatures is to properly program your thermostat. Correct programming will keep your home cool and help your AC to work more efficiently. Follow the tips below and keep your house cooler simply by using your thermostat correctly.

How should you set your thermostat to keep your house cool all summer?

  • At home: Set the thermostat around 78°F (25‑26°C) to balance comfort and energy savings.
  • Away from home: Raise the temperature when you’re out, and cool it down gradually before you return.
  • Use ceiling fans only when you’re in the room, cover windows and limit heat‑generating appliances.
  • Avoid frequently changing the thermostat by several degrees—it can waste energy.

When You Are Home

Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees can keep you comfortable without increasing your energy bill. If you can tolerate a warmer interior temperature, feel free to set your thermostat higher. It is estimated that for every degree you increase the thermostat’s setting, you save more on your energy bill.

Keep cool air in your home by covering windows with blinds or other window treatments. You should also limit the use of appliances that generate a lot of heat. Ceiling fans help to circulate the cool air from the AC, but you only need to keep them on when you are in the room. If humidity is a problem indoors, a dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture and keep you cool.

When You Are Away

Program your thermostat to raise the temperature during the times that you will be away from home. Today’s smart thermostats have features like vacation mode and scheduling. When setting your thermostat, adjust it so that it will gradually increase to a tolerable setting while you’re away. You can also program it to slowly reduce the temperature just before you return so that your home will be comfortable upon your arrival. Avoid cranking the temperature up or down frequently or by several degrees as this can increase energy usage. If you need to adjust the temperature quickly, try using a fan to help with cooling.

If you would like more tips on how to effectively program your thermostat contact Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461 today. We can help you to select the ideal smart or programmable thermostat for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What thermostat temperature is recommended while at home during summer?
Answer: Setting your thermostat to about 78°F helps keep you comfortable while avoiding high energy bills. You can set it higher if that’s still acceptable to you.

Question: How should I adjust the thermostat when I’m away from home?
Answer: Raise the temperature when you’re away, then program it to start cooling back before you return. Smart or programmable thermostats can automate this with scheduling or “vacation mode.”

Question: Why should I avoid frequently changing the thermostat settings by several degrees?
Answer: Large or rapid temperature swings make the HVAC system work harder, which uses more energy. Using fans or other cooling methods can help moderate temperature without overworking the AC.

Question: How else can I keep my house cooler besides setting the thermostat?
Answer: Use window treatments like blinds or curtains to block sunlight, limit use of heat-generating appliances, and use ceiling fans when you’re in a room. If humidity is high, a dehumidifier helps.

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Don’t Miss Out On These Features of Modern Thermostats

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018

So many tasks in our daily lives involve the use of modern technology, and the way we heat and cool our Summerlin, Nevada, homes is no exception. Unlike designs from the past, today’s thermostats are more than simple, basic devices. Available options now offer numerous benefits that help to increase comfort and energy savings. Learn how modern thermostats can make a significant difference in the way you manage HVAC comfort from season to season.

Easy Programming

The first wave of programmable thermostats weren’t all that easy to use. In fact, many consumers opted not to use the programming features in them altogether. But what’s the point of having a smart thermostat if you can’t take advantage of its features? Current models are user-friendly and some even come with accompanying smartphone apps to help streamline the setup process.

Remote Access

Imagine you’re on vacation when, suddenly, you’re struck by a thought: did I adjust the thermostat’s setting? Maintaining preferred temperatures when no one’s home is a waste of money. With an older thermostat, you’d have no choice but to cross your fingers and hope your energy bill isn’t too high when you get home. Fortunately, modern thermostats offer remote access features, allowing you to use a smartphone or another internet-enabled device to control your home’s temperature—even if you’re far away.

Attractive Features

Easy programming and remote access are only two of the features that allow you to keep more money in your pocket. There are other capabilities that help you to save energy and improve comfort. Some newer thermostats can also gather usage data and provide reports, so you can analyze usage over time and identify areas of energy waste. Some models are so smart that they can even learn your preferences and then set the temperature automatically based on previous programming habits. It’s just another way modern thermostats are a huge upgrade over thermostats of the past.

If you’re ready to make temperature control easier, contact Johnny On The Spot today at(725) 977-9461. Our installation experts will help you to understand your options and set up your new thermostat so you can start enjoying easy air conditioning comfort right away.

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Did You Know You Can Use a Heat Pump During the Cooling Season?

Thursday, May 10th, 2018

A heat pump is an energy-efficient HVAC system and an alternative to a furnace. However, did you know that these units also cool your home? Along with heating your home or business, a heat pump can provide the cooling you need to get through a Las Vegas, Nevada, summer. Learn more about how a heat pump works and the options and features available in today’s designs.

How a Heat Pump Works

Heat energy is present in the air, the ground and water. A heat pump works by moving heat from one area to another. In the winter, it extracts heat from the energy source and releases warm air indoors. In the summer, it reverses this action to remove heat from your property and release it outside. Heat pumps accomplish this process via a reversing valve which allows you to switch the unit between heating and cooling modes.

Types of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are either geothermal (ground-source or water-source) or air source. We carry air-source heat pumps that offer benefits like:

  • Two-stage Cooling
  • Efficient Performance
  • Energy Savings
  • Durability
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality
  • High Efficiency Ratings
  • Quiet Operation

Geothermal systems transfer heat energy between the ground or a nearby source of water and your property. They’re more costly to install but cheaper to operate, more durable, and suitable for extreme climates. An absorption system uses gas or another heat source to heat and cool your property. Air-source heat pumps are the most common option. They transfer air between the outdoors and your property. Heat pumps are a worthwhile option for indoor comfort since you get year-long comfort from just one unit.

Choosing Your Heat Pump

Your team at Johnny On The Spot is proud to partner with Trane in bringing you innovative HVAC systems. If you need an upgrade, contact us today at(725) 977-9461 to learn more about heat pumps. You can trust our expert team for accurate installation services. We’ll make sure you choose the system that is right for your home or business. Call now to get started.

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Never Cleaned Your Ducts? Learn Why Duct Cleaning Is Important

Sunday, April 22nd, 2018

Your HVAC system’s ductwork distributes heated and cooled air throughout your Las Vegas, NV, home or business. However, because ducts are hidden behind walls, under crawl spaces and in attics, they’re easy to forget. Ducts need maintenance as much your visible HVAC equipment. Here’s why it’s a good idea to invest in duct cleaning for your residential or commercial property.

It Improves Indoor Air Quality for Better Health

Over time, ducts can become infested with allergens and contaminants that cause short and long-term illnesses. Pet dander, dust mites, pollen, bacteria, viruses, spores, and pests can take up residence in the dark and humid environment of the ductwork. Whenever your HVAC system cycles on, these particles can blow into your Las Vegas home and pollute your indoor air. Duct cleaning removes these pollutants from your ducts so that the air you breathe is clean and not detrimental to your health.

Duct Cleaning Increases HVAC Efficiency

Dirt, dust, debris and other obstructions can also impede airflow through the ducts and overwork your system. Overworked HVAC components break down easily, and this wear and tear can also shorten your system’s lifespan because of the damage to the equipment over time. If the units have to work harder to maintain even basic performance levels, energy usage and utility bills will likely increase. Getting rid of ductwork gunk that obstructs airflow helps to keep indoor comfort high and energy bills low.

You Save Money by Preventing Duct Leaks

The buildup of particles can damage your ducts. Ductwork will develop cracks and leaks through which heated and cooled air escapes. The US Department of Energy estimates that the average home loses 20 to 30 percent of treated air through leaky and poorly-connected ducts. During duct cleaning, our technicians will identify any problems and provide honest recommendations. Sealing duct leaks will also prevent energy loss, increase HVAC efficiency and decrease utility bills.

Learn more about how duct cleaning and preventive maintenance protect your equipment, maximize indoor comfort, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality to support good health. Contact your service specialists at Johnny On The Spot by calling(725) 977-9461.

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How a Smart Thermostat Improves AC Efficiency

Monday, March 5th, 2018

There was a time when persons would jokingly say that, “one day, computers will run everything.” Today, that sentiment is no longer far-fetched. It is in fact, much closer to reality. Thanks to advancements in home automation technology, you can operate nearly every device in your Henderson, NV, home by remote control. Your HVAC system is no different, and a smart thermostat adds more than convenience, it can optimize air conditioning efficiency and energy savings, too.

Get Detailed Energy Reports

Smart thermostats can generate reports that show how much energy you are using, and how you may be wasting energy. The in-depth information helps you to understand how you can make adjustments to reduce your energy bills. You’ll be able to make comparative analyses and review your energy consumption patterns over time. Programming options help you save energy without compromising comfort.

Programmable Schedules

Usually, your thermostat is set to one temperature, or you rarely change the setting. You could be wasting a lot of energy! Smart thermostats bring ease, convenience, and flexibility to heating and air conditioning. These devices allow you to program temperatures based on your schedule. That is, you can set specific and energy-saving temperatures based on whether or not you are at home, awake or sleeping.

You save energy because, for example, if a 75-degree setting is ideal when you’re home, there’s no need to keep the thermostat at the same temperature when you’re away. With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to worry about making these adjustments. The Wi-Fi option means you can also make changes from any location. Many of these thermostats are so smart that they can study your behavior and make automatic temperature changes!

We’re Your Heating and Cooling Experts

As your HVAC pros, we offer the products and services that help you save. Improving AC efficiency is easy with Johnny On The Spot. We have a selection of smart thermostats to suit your style and budget. Thanks to technology, now there is a smart way to make your home more comfortable for less. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to find out how you can upgrade your device

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Why Isn’t My Home Heating Up?

Friday, December 1st, 2017

Ice, snow, and possibly blizzards, are a few of the frustrating things to deal with during the long cold months. And a heating system not quite doing its job of keeping your house warm is just unbelievable. This is quite an annoying situation, though very common. There may be problems with the evaporator coils, wiring, pipes or ducts, filters, or the motors. Any of these problems would need a professional repair assistance. Do not attempt to fix it by yourself as it may cause further damage and may cost you more than just a few hundred dollars.

Before you slam and scream at your thermostats for being useless, there are a few typical reasons why your system is not working.

A Faulty Thermostat

There are many reasons why the thermostat may not be working properly. The freezing temperatures outside may have strained your furnace. Older thermostats may need to be leveled. Check if the breaker is working and check if the door is properly closed. Check for burnt fuses.

You could determine what part is not working by running a few checkpoints. If your system has coilers, check if you can feel any heat from the furnace when it is on. If there is barely any to no heat, your boilers may need replacement.

Clogged Ducts

Another checkpoint is your ducts or pipes. A lack of airflow from the ducts means that it is clogged with dirt or other debris.

Blower Motors

Blower motors may need replacement if it is frayed, cracked, or lost its tension.

Ignition

An electronic igniter or pilot light is responsible for lighting the gas or propane central heating. If the igniter doesn’t light or the pilot light has no flame, call a professional to replace the igniter.

Dirty Filters

Filters need to be cleaned at least twice a year like a dental cleaning. Remove your screens and check if your filters require cleaning. Dust and other dirt may accumulate in your filters and sometimes be the root of your system not functioning well. Ideal time to clean or replace filters will be in spring or fall just right before the season wherein your air conditioning system works the hardest.

Lack Of Maintenance

All of the abovementioned faulty parts of your system may be traced back to poor maintenance. Over the year, household chores are often put off especially when it comes to maintenance if the furnace seems to be working fine prior to the incident. Even if your systems seem to have no problems, it is in your best interest if regular maintenance is done to avoid damages that will hinder the system working properly and will cause you to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars for repair and utility bills.

It is not pleasant to suffer the cold of the bitter winter. If your heating system is not working, determine the source of the problem, but do not attempt resolving it by yourself. Call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461 so we can provide the support you need!

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