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

Four Sounds Your HVAC System Should Not Be Making

Sunday, June 24th, 2018

Scorching highs and frigid lows make having a functioning HVAC system a must in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area. That’s why you need to pay close attention to the sounds your HVAC system is making. New and unusual sounds are signs of trouble. Keep an ear out for new HVAC system sounds so that you can take prompt action and avoid facing the heat or dealing with an expensive breakdown.

Thumping or Banging

Thumping or banging could mean that there’s an issue with the blower or motor. Typically, the sound you’re hearing is a component that has come loose and is rattling around inside the unit. This could be the motor mount, motor bearings, or some other part, and it is best to turn off the unit to prevent further damage.

Screeching or Squealing

These HVAC system sounds typically indicate a problem with the compressor belt or the motor bearing. If you hear screeching or squealing, it could be due to the pistons of the compressor wearing down—which is a tell-tale sign that it’s time to replace these parts. If you ignore these noises, your blower could stop functioning completely.

Humming or Buzzing

It’s normal for your HVAC unit to make a little humming noise when it’s starting up. However, if you still hear this sound as the unit continues to operate, it could be a sign of a problem with the compressor or isolation feet (small pieces of rubber upon which the compressor sits). In some cases, the inside of the unit might even be freezing up.

Clicking

You might hear a soft click when your HVAC unit turns on or off. However, if you still hear a clicking sound while the unit is operating, it could be a problem with the control panel, outside compressor, or the interior electrical controls.

Local HVAC Service Experts

Want to know the best way to avoid hearing these HVAC system sounds and experiencing other HVAC problems? You should schedule preventive HVAC maintenance with Johnny On The Spot. We will thoroughly check your system and handle any problems before they turn into bigger issues. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 for all your HVAC needs.

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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 to Enjoy HVAC Comfort Year-Round in Las Vegas

Wednesday, March 28th, 2018

Residents of Las Vegas, NV, experience record high temperatures during the summer months. Consistently high temperatures can make it hard to stay cool on a budget. Then, winter in our area can bring temperatures near freezing point. At Johnny On The Spot, we offer HVAC maintenance, repairs, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems that make temperature management a breeze. Choose us for commercial or residential HVAC, and we’ll make it easy for you to enjoy HVAC comfort year-round.

The High-Performance Upgrades You Need

If you’re only able to keep comfortable when the weather is mild, you need to take action now. Winter and summer temperatures in our area can be unforgiving. At either extreme, unless you have reliable heating and cooling, you could be risking occupants’ health and safety. When you get rid of your inefficient system and make that upgrade:

Check out our specials page for offers that could help you save on your upgrade. Our service specialists will help you understand what you need to do to keep your system in peak condition.

Taking Care of Your HVAC System

Caring for your HVAC system ensures its longevity. Regular filter changes and seasonal maintenance can make a big difference in comfort and system performance. Schedule heater maintenance in fall and AC maintenance in spring. By doing so, you ensure your systems will be in good condition to take on the temperatures ahead. For a simple DIY step, learn how to change your air filter properly.

You can avoid frequent repairs or even stave off early replacement when you take care of your heating and cooling systems. You can’t go wrong with “The Johnny’s Touch” maintenance program. We check every component and make necessary repairs. Additional benefits include priority scheduling and discounts and free diagnostics on repairs. With ongoing care, your system can perform efficiently year-round, much like a smart thermostat improves AC efficiency.

We’re All About Your Comfort—365

Make an appointment for a consultation as soon as you notice any problem with your system. A delay could cost you more. Johnny On The Spot is ready with the tools, products, services, and expertise to guarantee year-round in your office or business. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 for installation, repairs, or maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What upgrades are recommended for reliable year‑round HVAC comfort in Las Vegas?
Answer: Upgrading from an inefficient heating or cooling system helps ensure comfort during both summer’s extreme heat and colder winter nights. Key benefits include better energy efficiency, lower utility costs, improved indoor air quality, and enhanced comfort and safety.

Question: When should I schedule HVAC maintenance to get the most benefit in Las Vegas?
Answer: It’s best to schedule heater maintenance in fall and air conditioner maintenance in spring. That timing ensures your system is ready for harsh summer heat or cold winter nights.

Question: What are the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance?
Answer: Regular maintenance (filter changes, inspections, cleaning, checking components) prolongs system lifespan, improves efficiency, lowers repair costs, helps avoid emergency breakdowns, and keeps indoor air quality better.

Question: What is “The Johnny’s Touch” maintenance program?
Answer: It’s a maintenance plan offered by Johnny On The Spot that includes checking all components, making needed repairs, priority service scheduling, discounts, and free diagnostics for repair work.

Question: Why is indoor air quality mentioned in relation to HVAC upgrades?
Answer: Upgrading to a high‑performance HVAC system helps control temperature extremes and also improves indoor air quality. Better seals, efficient filtration, and properly functioning systems reduce drafts, dust, and pollutants.

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4 Questions To Ask Your HVAC Pro

Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Are you finding yourself in need of HVAC maintenance or repairs this holiday season? If you need to go ahead and hire an expert, there are a few questions you want to make sure you ask before you allow any HVAC company to work on your system. Keep these in mind when you are calling to hire a pro.

Do You Have Insurance?

Because HVAC systems require some heavy lifting, as well as costly repairs if something doesn’t go right, an HVAC pro will be equipped with insurance to cover any mistakes or accidents that can occur while on the job. HVAC experts are trained to safely work on your system, but unforeseen accidents may still occur, so be sure to ask if the company has insurance and what it covers when they’re working on your unit. That way you are aware of the liability should anything happen.

Are You Licensed And Accredited?

HVAC professionals are highly trained because of the intricacies of HVAC systems’ designs. In order to safely repair, install, and replace units, HVAC pros are working with extensive knowledge to make sound decisions. Your HVAC expert should have proper licensing and accreditation. The North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, provides this accreditation so be sure to hire a pro who has this. It’s also favorable for the company to be under Energy Star, which approves energy-efficient appliances.

Can I Have A Written Estimate?

Most HVAC companies provide a free consultation to check out your unit before they start any work. Prior to them beginning, you should receive a detailed cost breakdown of what needs repairing. They should not begin any tasks until you receive this quote. A real pro will make sure you completely understand what the issues are with your unit and what the cost will be for their services.

What Maintenance Tasks Can I Do Myself?

When maintaining an HVAC unit, there are several things you can do yourself. Make sure you stay on top of cleaning and replacing your filters and keeping debris away from your outdoor unit. If you aren’t sure how to maintain your HVAC unit, call in an expert to show you some things you can do yourself before you call them in for repairs. Taking care of your investment will help save you money down the road should any issues with your system arise. A willing HVAC expert showing you what you can do is a good indicator they are honest and forthcoming with information, making them someone you want to hire for a repair or replacement in the future.

Having any repairman come into your home when you’re not fully informed can be stressful. By asking these questions, you will be able to weed out the unfavorable HVAC pros. For trusted experts who meet these expectations and more, contact Johnny On The Spot for a free consultation at (725) 977-9461.

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4 Reasons Seasonal Maintenance Is Necessary

Monday, October 30th, 2017

Seasonal maintenance is important in keeping your HVAC system running and working efficiently throughout the season. It is recommended to have at least a biannual maintenance program to ensure your system’s efficiency. However, do you know that there are other reasons why seasonal maintenance is necessary?

Prevents Sudden Breakdowns

Imagine it’s the middle of a freezing winter night or the heat is at its peak in summer when suddenly, your HVAC breaks down. Incidents like these are inconvenient for every homeowner. What’s worse is when you are clueless of what went wrong and what part of the system has broken down. If you apply for a seasonal maintenance program, you’ll avoid situations like these because your system will get a thorough inspection and necessary minor repairs to ensure it is ready for the season.

Lowers Utility Bills

If your HVAC system does not get proper maintenance, it is no longer economical no matter how high its SEER rating is. Its inefficiency is noticeable when your monthly utility bills are higher than usual. To prevent this from happening, ensure that you keep the air filters, evaporator coils, and condenser coils of your HVAC clean and free from heavy dust build-up. On the other hand, your HVAC contractor will perform the in-depth evaluation of your system from the ductworks to the wiring and insulation.

Conducting HVAC maintenance will help your system boost and sustain its efficiency. It is a great way for you to save money and avoid unnecessary additional energy bill charges.

Gives Equipment A Longer Lifespan

Well-maintained HVAC equipment has an average lifespan of 15 – 20 years. Its lifespan is only attainable if maintained accordingly. Your HVAC system is a lifetime investment. Therefore, you should look after it and make sure that it works efficiently until such time.

Longer lifespan means lesser chances for you to unnecessarily purchase a new HVAC system just because of your not-so-old unit which refuses to provide you your much needed comfort. Our HVAC system is not a money investment alone. When you invest in an HVAC system, you invest in you and your family’s comfort all throughout the years.

Ensures Health and Safety

Carbon monoxide is a deadly toxic gas released by heating systems. To avoid this from happening, make sure that there is no carbon monoxide leakage from your system. You can purchase a carbon monoxide detector for your own safety. Have HVAC system tuned-up and inspected on a regular basis by your trusted HVAC maintenance provider.

HVAC maintenance also helps prevent catastrophic residential fire breakouts. Your technician will check the wire insulation of your equipment as part of their evaluation. It will help prevent any short circuits in the future which is a common origin for the fire to start.

Maintaining your HVAC system has a lot of benefits that you couldn’t have possibly thought about. And yes, there is still a lot more to it. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your seasonal maintenance program now!

For your trusted HVAC maintenance provider in Las Vegas area, visit us now at Johnny-On-The-Spot or call us (725) 977-9461. Your HVAC system is in good hands with our accredited HVAC experts!

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5 Questions To Consider When Buying An HVAC System

Monday, October 2nd, 2017

Before purchasing a new HVAC system, what are the important things that you should consider? What questions should you ask your HVAC contractor so you can get the most efficient HVAC system for your home?

What Size Is Best For My Home?

The first thing that you should consider is the compatibility of your air conditioner size with the area of your house where it will be installed. Inappropriate size can cause your HVAC unit to function inefficiently or produce trouble instead of comfort. If you have a small room, a small air conditioner will suffice. Likewise, larger rooms require larger HVAC unit.

When a small air conditioner is installed in a large room, the system will work hard to meet your desired room temperature. The double effort causes the system to consume more energy which can result in higher monthly utility bills. And if you install a large HVAC in a small room, it won’t run as often as it should, resulting in high humidity levels. High humidity in the air produces mold and mildew which are hazardous to our health and a threat to our home’s interior.

What Type Of Air Conditioning Unit Do You Recommend?

This question is something you should ask your HVAC contractor. The type of unit will vary depending on the design or style and size of your home. Discuss with your contractor whether a split type or packaged HVAC unit is advisable. Tackle your options with them and ask for their recommendations.

Aside from the unit, considering the efficiency rating of the HVAC is also important. Make sure that the efficiency rating is enough and not too much or less for your home’s size. The cooling system’s efficiency rating is referred to as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The heating system’s efficiency is expressed in Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF). Lastly, the furnace efficiency rating is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).

How Long Is The Installation Process?

Your HVAC contractor will provide you a contract. Within that contract, there should be a specified date for the beginning of the installation project and when it is supposed to be finished. Make sure you are knowledgeable about the length of days it will take for the installation’s completion. It will help you avoid any unnecessary extra charges for the service.

For every specific unit, there is a relevant timetable for the project completion of each phase. Your selected model will influence the costs and time period for the installation.

Does The Model Have Incentives?

A lot of energy-efficient models come with manufacturer rebates. These rebates will help you save money. You can ask your HVAC contractor about mail-in rebates. You can also do some research if you are qualified for any tax credits.

Do They Offer A Maintenance Program?

Investing in a preventive maintenance program not only helps you save money but also keeps your HVAC system efficiently working throughout its lifespan. It only makes practical and financial sense to apply for an HVAC maintenance plan with the HVAC contractor who will perform the installation process. It will help you build a positive working relationship with the company and its technicians since they will be familiar with your home’s structure and history better than anyone else.

When you apply for a maintenance program, an HVAC technician will come into your house at least twice a year to evaluate your system’s efficiency and conduct any minor repairs when necessary.

Your HVAC system is a lifetime investment. Therefore, you should make careful decisions, rough estimates and conduct some researchers before you engage in purchases. Knowledge from HVAC contractors can also help you make the right decisions in buying an HVAC unit since they will provide you with helpful tips and suggestions.

For your Las Vegas HVAC concerns, visit us at Johnny On The Spot or call us at (725) 977-9461. Our experts will guide you all the way for your pre-purchasing concerns to after installation.

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HVAC Questions To Ask When Buying a Home

Thursday, September 14th, 2017

The HVAC system should be on your list of priorities to check when buying a home. Depending on its condition, it’s one of the biggest financial costs on its own and affects your monthly bills. It also plays a major factor in the home’s livability, determining the resident’s comfort. Knowing what to ask helps you get the necessary information to spot current problems and foresee potential ones.

What type of HVAC system is installed?

The kind of HVAC system would gives you a good idea on the several important things to note. Older models run on Freon and are less energy efficient than the newer ones. Freon is currently being phased out so it might be more difficult to find and costly to replace. Newer refrigerants are cleaner and safer for the environment. Being less energy efficient is not only harmful to nature, but it also costs more to operate. Older systems could also be an indication of the system’s age. Bear in mind the average lifespan of an HVAC system is 10-15 years. If you do find a home close to this range, don’t immediately back out of the deal as quality regular maintenance would have a great impact on the machine’s condition.

Has the system seen regular servicing?

Ask for documentation. These would tell you what company they trusted to maintain and fix their HVAC units. Begin from the time of installation and have repairs and replacements included. You’ll find out both the company name and when it was installed so you get the exact age of the HVAC system. Take note whether they previous owners consistently stuck with a certain HVAC maintenance company or switched often. The latter would give cause for concern as a new technician would be unfamiliar with the machine’s history. This often results in a different level of care. Research on the companies who’ve previously serviced the HVAC units and ductwork, including repairs and replacements. Find out whether these were trusted names in their respective areas. Lack of regular maintenance would be cause for concern but provides leverage in negotiating the price of the home.

How effective and efficient is the system?

You can easily judge its effectiveness by the temperature levels of the different rooms. Inconsistency would tell you otherwise but be clear if there are rooms that require a different temperature than the rest. As a rule of thumb, older models are less efficient than newer ones. Take into account the brand name, too. Also, check for the Energy Efficiency Rating and the Energy Star rating. The former rates the performance of the machine at its best while the latter indicates the overall energy efficiency of the machine. The monthly utility costs would also indicate how much you’d be spending regularly to keep ideal temperatures in your home.

Is the warranty still effective and transferable?

Newer units are given lifetime warranties but are limited to only the original purchasers. Once the house is sold, the warranty ends as well. Others continue for just a short time after the transfer of ownership. If warranty does continue beyond the sale, request to have the documentation verifying this. Study the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully to prevent voiding it.

While these are questions you could ask and research on yourself, always have an inspector to help you properly evaluate the HVAC system’s condition and effectiveness. They’d be able to point out certain details only a trained eye would identify. With their years of experience, an inspector would also know what else to look for. For advice and service of reliable HVAC technicians, reach out to Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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How To Insulate Your Home for Vegas Weather

Sunday, July 16th, 2017

If you are a homeowner in Las Vegas and you’re looking to improve your home, you may want to take a look at your insulation. With poor insulation, more than half of your home’s heat can escape, forcing your HVAC to work more than it should!

Heating and cooling costs are usually one of the largest parts of your energy bills, accounting for around half of your total energy expenditures. Setting up good insulation may reduce that by around thirty percent.

How Do You Know if You Have Good Insulation?

To find out how much insulation your home currently has and how much is considered enough, it’s best to first look at the Environmental Protection Agency’s table found in their Energy Star website, as it shows how much insulation is needed in every climate zone.

If the floor joists in your attic or basement are visible, that is a telltale sign that you need more insulation. With regards to walls, you’d have to drill a hole to check and although it’s more expensive and difficult, it’s worth checking out especially if you have an old home.

How To Insulate Your Home

1. Min​d The Doors
One of the easiest ways to insulate your home is to start with your doors. Draught excluders or draft stoppers can be used to mitigate heat and AC loss in doors.

2. Insulate The Windows
Aside from doors, heat and AC can also escape through your windows. Run the palm of your hand around the edges of your windows. If you feel the presence of wind, it means your windows have weak points. A helping of putty or sealer can easily remedy those flaws. Fitting your windows with curtains or blinds can also help, especially if they have thermal backing.

3. Double Glaze
Double glazing means adding more glass panes to your windows to further slow down heat and AC loss. If your home doesn’t have it yet, it’s worth considering as it will help lessen your energy bills.

4. Fill The Gaps In The Floor
Homes that have wooden floors run the risk of having gaps between the floorboards. If you want your home’s insulation to be very thorough, it is suggested to bring in an expert to properly fit insulation beneath your floors.

5. Insulate Your Attic
Hot air rises, so heat will naturally go to your attic. Accordingly, you would want to pay close attention to this part of your home and make sure that it is well-insulated. Get either loose-fill or batt insulation, depending on what you need. The process of laying it down can either be done by professionals but you can also try to do it yourself. Talk about a fun weekend activity!

Most homes aren’t as insulated as they should be. In fact, homes over forty years old are likely to have no insulation at all. Fortunately, checking how much insulation your home needs is as simple as 1, 2, 3 and adding insulation can be done by yourself! If you require help, however, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals over at Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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HVAC Energy-Saving Tips For The Summer

Monday, May 1st, 2017

Summer is just around the corner and because of that, you’re probably already daydreaming about the beach, planning pool parties, or researching popsicle recipes.

However, before you crank that air conditioner up, know that heating and cooling compose approximately half of most American energy bills, according to The Department of Energy. Since summer is the season where your air conditioner is going to see a lot of action, spending a lot on energy may seem hard to avoid.

Be that as it may, there are simple HVAC measures you can take to save energy in the summer:

Natural Ventilation

Perhaps the easiest way to save energy during the hotter months is to use your air conditioner as rarely as possible. This does not mean that you should turn it on only on birthdays and other special occasions. This means that using natural ventilation can go a long way in keeping your energy bills within budget.

As you go to bed at night, open your windows instead of turning on your air conditioner and then when you wake up, close the windows and blinds to keep the cool air inside. You can also install window treatments or coverings to make your home more resistant to heat.

Minimize Indoor Heat

In addition to utilizing natural ventilation, you should also minimize heat buildup inside your home if you want to minimize your HVAC unit’s energy expenditure. A lot of our appliances at home are good at generating heat, so opting for alternatives will definitely help keep the place cool.

For instance, use daylight instead of artificial light, the microwave instead of an oven, and try to air dry dishes and clothes. Watching TV, using a computer, and other activities that generate heat should also be lessened. If your home has some cracks or holes, apply the appropriate seals and repairs to prevent hot air from leaking inside.

Efficient Thermostat Operation

Not many people know that wisely operating their thermostat can be very effective at saving money while still maintaining a comfortable temperature. To achieve this, set your thermostat as high as possible when you are out of the house and lower it to 78°F when you get back home and need cooling.

The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperature, the more you get to save on your cooling bills. Installing a programmable thermostat can make this more convenient because you can adjust the temperature at different times of the day beforehand.

Replace Dirty Filters

Your HVAC system will perform inefficiently if its filters are dirty because it blocks the airflow causing the system to work harder. This will require more energy and it may damage your system in the long run, as well as decrease the air quality and foster an unhealthy environment for your family.

Replace your filters at least once a month to keep your HVAC system working at its best.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Lastly, have your HVAC system routinely serviced by a licensed professional so that your unit will be at its best condition all the time. A technician will be able to clean, repair, and optimize your HVAC system so that it will function perfectly and help you avoid sudden (and oftentimes expensive) repairs in the future.

Don’t let the prospect of high energy bills ruin your summer fun! Follow these simple HVAC tips so you could spend your money not on your air conditioner, but on vacations instead!

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