Johnny On the Spot Blog

Most home and business owners want to know how to make their HVAC systems last as long as possible. While regular maintenance and promptly responding to repair needs certainly extend the lifespan of an HVAC system, so does duct cleaning. Let’s take a look at how clean ductwork can make your HVAC system in Anthem, NV, more efficient and last longer.

Improves HVAC System Performance

HVAC systems work by circulating the air through your home or business. If there are significant blockages in your ductwork, air won’t be able to move as freely, which means your system will need to run longer and use more power. When your system runs longer to push air through clogged and dirty ductwork, more stress gets placed on the system, resulting in a decrease in performance.

Not only does this result in your home or business not feeling as comfortable as you’d like, but it also forces your HVAC system to work harder than necessary. Investing in professional duct cleaning allows your HVAC system to work more effectively and efficiently.

Helps You Spot HVAC Repair Problems

Of course, clean ductwork isn’t a silver bullet for extending your HVAC system’s lifespan. However, service specialists who check your ducts for debris will also be able to spot other potential problems. This means you can catch repair concerns before they worsen, allowing you to act before a small problem turns into something more significant.

Makes HVAC Filters Last Longer

With clean ductwork, you’ll limit the dirt and debris that reaches your HVAC filters. This can reduce the wear and tear on your HVAC filters along with the rest of your system.

Most experts recommend that you have your ductwork cleaned at least every three years. Contact the team at Johnny On The Spot today to schedule your ductwork cleaning and ask about our expansive HVAC services.

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Plumbing repairs in Blue Diamond, NV, can get costly, so it’s important to take preventative measures. Scheduling regular drain cleaning services should be part of your home’s maintenance. The following are some advantages of drain cleaning services and how they can help your plumbing system:

Clog Clearing and Prevention

You might not immediately notice a small clog, but a service specialist can find and eliminate it before it becomes a major issue. During a drain cleaning service appointment, they will also remove any built-up grease, debris and hair that has the potential to cause a future clog.

Pipe Preservation

If you frequently use chemical drain cleaners, the harshness of these products can cause damage to your pipes, likely requiring necessary plumbing repairs. This is especially true if you use them often. A professional service specialist can clean your drains without using them, helping to preserve the condition of your pipes.

Odor Elimination

Trapped debris can cause nasty odors to waft from the drains into your home. It’s especially common in your kitchen sink since food may get caught in the pipes. A professional cleaning helps to clear this debris so you no longer have the unpleasant smells.

Improved Drainage

Debris that builds up in your plumbing can cause the water to drain slowly, especially in your shower and sinks. Trying to do tasks like washing dishes may become cumbersome as you battle to get your tasks done as water rises. Once a service specialist cleans out the pipes, the water will drain as it should without any problems.

Slow drainage and persistent clogs are relatively common problems, but they have the potential to become major costly issues if they’re not handled in a timely manner. Service specialists can easily find and fix the issue and do professional drain cleaning to ensure your plumbing is back in peak condition. Contact Johnny On The Spot today to schedule your next drain cleaning service.

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Plumbing that functions properly is extremely important, so no one wants to deal with leaks, pipe damage or similar problems. Unfortunately, some homeowners have bad habits that create or worsen plumbing issues. Here are three bad plumbing habits and how to avoid them in your Las Vegas, NV, home, preventing serious system damage:

Treating Your Toilet Like a Trash Can

Toilets can’t handle every kind of waste that won’t quickly dissolve in water, like toilet paper. This includes paper towels, cat litter, wipes, hygiene products and various other things. They can easily clog the plumbing and cause serious problems in the short and long term.

Garbage disposals can mash up many types of waste, so you may feel tempted to dump all kinds of materials into them. However, you should never put in items like hot grease, eggshells, potato peels and other thick or hard foods, as doing so could clog your pipes.

Using Too Much Drain Cleaner

This may seem unusual since homeowners use drain cleaners to unclog and clean out pipes. However, given the corrosive nature of such chemicals, overusing them can wind up having harmful effects that could severely damage plumbing.

Not Doing Anything About Small Leaks

Small plumbing issues tend to develop into larger ones if you don’t deal with them promptly. Unfortunately, some people believe they can ignore tiny leaks that don’t cause any immediate damage or inconvenience.

Although you might not want to get a small leak checked because you want to save some money, it’s usually not a good idea to put off plumbing repairs. Tiny leaks can cause slow damage to your plumbing and result in larger issues. Once this happens, it may be too late to do anything without a massive overhaul.

Our plumbing professionals can help you with any of your system damage. Call Johnny On The Spot today to reap the benefits of our plumbing services in Las Vegas, NV, and the surrounding area.

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A foul smell from your air conditioning system can make your home uncomfortable and unpleasant. There are several reasons your AC system may emit unpleasant odors. Let’s explore common causes of bad smells from AC systems in Sloan, NV, and provide insights on how to address them.

Biological Growth

Biological growth within the AC system, particularly in the evaporator coil or air ducts, can cause musty odors. The presence of moisture and organic matter provides an ideal environment for contaminants to thrive. Regular AC maintenance, which includes cleaning and disinfecting the system, can help prevent this problem and eliminate the associated odors.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can create a stale smell in your home. When air filters become saturated with dust, dirt and other particles, they can harbor unpleasant odors and circulate them throughout your living space. It’s important to clean or replace your air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and prevent odors caused by trapped contaminants. Ideally, you should check your filter every month and clean or change it when needed.

Decomposing Organic Matter

If organic matter, such as dead insects or small animals, is in your AC system, it can lead to unpleasant smells as the matter decomposes. Insects or animals may enter the system through openings or ductwork. Regular inspection and cleaning of the AC components can help remove debris or organic matter and eliminate associated odors.

Stagnant Water Accumulation

Stagnant water within the AC system can produce a foul odor, often caused by a clogged condensate drain line or a malfunctioning condensate pump. The accumulated water becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, algae and other microorganisms that emit unpleasant smells. Clearing clogs and ensuring proper drainage can help prevent stagnant water and associated odors.

A bad smell emanating from your AC system can detract from the comfort of your home. If you’re unsure about the cause of the odor or need assistance in resolving the issue, seek professional help from a service specialist. Contact us at Johnny On The Spot for indoor air quality services.

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Many Blue Diamond, NV, residents rely on a heat pump to provide efficient cooling during the hot summer months. Understanding why your heat pump keeps turning on and off is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Here are some common causes of a heat pump repeatedly cycling on and off:

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

One of the most common reasons for frequent cycling is incorrect thermostat settings. Ensuring your thermostat is set to the desired temperature and in the appropriate mode is essential. Additionally, verify that the thermostat is away from heat sources or drafts, which can affect its accuracy and cause frequent cycling.

Clogged Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, leading to overheating and an automatic shut-off of the system. Regular inspection and cleaning or replacing your air filters ensure unrestricted airflow and proper operation. It’ll keep the system operating optimally and save on energy costs.

Refrigerant Leaks

A refrigerant leak can cause your heat pump to cycle more often as it struggles to maintain the desired temperature. The leak could result from a faulty compressor or a refrigerant leak. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it is important to contact a professional HVAC service technician to diagnose and repair the issue promptly. Never attempt a DIY refrigerant repair; it can be hazardous to your health and the environment.

Oversized or Undersized Heat Pump

An improperly sized heat pump can lead to frequent cycling. An oversized system cools the space too quickly, causing it to turn off prematurely, while an undersized system struggles to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in frequent cycling.

It’s essential to promptly address the short cycling issue to avoid discomfort and potential damage to your HVAC system in Blue Diamond, NV. Contact us at Johnny On The Spot and our service technicians will diagnose and repair the issue.

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No matter how much you love them, your furry friends greatly impact the air quality in your home. As an Anthem, NV, resident, you should know the following impacts and how to address them:

Pet Dander and Allergy Symptoms

Pet dander contains tiny particles of skin and fur that become airborne when disturbed. These particles can be inhaled, causing allergic reactions such as sneezing, watery eyes or difficulty breathing in sensitive individuals. To reduce the amount of pet dander floating through your house, vacuum regularly, and use air purifiers to filter the particles.

Smells and Odors

Pets also produce odors that can linger in your home, making it feel stuffy. This is especially true for cats or dogs with long hair, which can easily trap odors.

Bacteria from pet waste can also circulate, causing health issues and foul odors. To reduce pet smells in your home, scoop out litter boxes at least once daily, dispose of the waste in an outdoor trash can and bathe your pets regularly. Vacuuming up fur or using a lint roller on furniture can also help to reduce odors.

Pet Germs and Infections

Pets also spread germs that can contaminate the air in your home. From saliva to fur, these germs easily spread through the air and onto furniture or other surfaces before being inhaled by humans.

To prevent this from occurring, wash your pet’s food dishes regularly, disinfect their living spaces with bleach-free wipes and always wash your hands after handling them.

Though pets bring much joy and love to your home, it’s crucial to be aware of their negative impacts on air quality. You can contact Johnny On The Spot for all our indoor air quality services. We’ll help you breathe cleaner and fresher in no time, even if you have pets in your household.

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The location of the thermostat plays an important role in optimizing the performance of HVAC systems in Blue Diamond, NV. Installing a thermostat in the right place can help accurately measure temperatures to ensure your HVAC system works efficiently and effectively. Here are some suggestions for optimal thermostat placements:

Interior Walls

Interior walls are free from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. To ensure accurate readings, choose a spot away from heating and cooling vents or any other sources of airflow. Avoid placing the thermostat near windows, doors and other drafty spots. Also, keep it away from appliances that generate heat like televisions, computers and lamps.

Away From Air Vents

Air vents can cause fluctuations in temperature that may result in inaccurate readings. It’s best to place the thermostat at least 6 feet away from any air vents. This way, the warm or cool air passing through the vents won’t affect thermostat accuracy and will provide more accurate temperature readings.

Central Locations

Central locations ensure that the temperature readings in that area accurately reflect the rest of the house and allow your HVAC system to provide even temperatures throughout all rooms. Your service specialist should choose a spot in an interior hallway or a central living area on an inside wall.

Sunlight Avoidance

Direct sunlight can cause inaccurate temperature readings, so avoid placing the thermostat in any area that receives direct light. Such areas are usually hotter than the rest of the house and may cause false readings. An area on the north-facing wall of your home or an interior space away from windows is the best location for your thermostat.

Whether you’re looking to install a new thermostat or upgrade your existing one, the location of the thermostat is vital for optimal performance. Contact Johnny On The Spot to help you choose the best spot for your thermostat and get the most out of your HVAC system.

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A thermostat is an essential component of any HVAC system. It controls your home’s temperature by communicating with your air conditioner or heat pump. However, not all locations in your home are ideal for installing a smart thermostat. Here are the five worst places to install a thermostat in Blue Diamond, NV:

In Direct Sunlight

The heat from the sun can make the smart thermostat think that your home is warmer than it is, causing your HVAC system to work harder than needed. This can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system.

Near Doors and Windows

These areas experience more drafts and temperature fluctuations than the rest of the room, which leads to inaccurate temperature readings. Depending on that reading, the thermostat will read the temperature near the door or window and turn the heating or cooling system on or off. This can result in higher energy costs and less comfortable temperatures in the room.

Near a Heat Source

Installing a thermostat near a heat source, such as a lamp or appliance, isn’t recommended. This is because the thermostat will sense the heat from the source rather than the room’s temperature. This can lead to incorrect temperature readings and inefficient heating or cooling.

Near a Vent

The thermostat will detect the temperature of the air that comes out of the vent rather than the home’s temperature. This can result in your HVAC system turning on and off frequently, causing unnecessary wear and tear.

Behind Furniture

Furniture can block airflow, preventing the smart thermostat from accurately reading the home’s temperature. As a result, the HVAC system may cycle on and off needlessly. This leads to higher energy consumption and perhaps uncomfortable indoor conditions.

Contact us at Johnny On The Spot to consult with our service specialists. They will help you ensure that your smart thermostat installation is in the most optimal location for your home. Also, this will help you ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently and you’re saving money on your energy.

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Your heat pump in Anthem, NV, shouldn’t produce any smells during operation. Unusual odors are an indication that something is wrong and needs an immediate fix.

Burning Odors

A burning smell may sometimes be a cause for alarm. If you haven’t used your heat pump for a month or two, the burning smell may be coming from dust burning off the heating elements. This smell should subside over time and is nothing to worry about.

However, if you’ve recently had your system serviced and the smell persists, it could be a sign of an electrical issue or a component starting to fail. This can create an unsafe environment in your home, so you’ll want to have a qualified service specialist inspect it right away.

Musty Odors

Musty odors may indicate that there are biological contaminants in the ductwork or elsewhere within the heat pump system. Such pathogens are dangerous for your health; therefore, you need a qualified HVAC service specialist to immediately identify the source and recommend solutions for getting rid of them safely.

Rotten Eggs Smell

When you can smell sulfur (akin to a rotten egg), you may have a gas leak. And since heat pumps don’t run on natural gas, maybe a small animal crawled inside your duct for warmth and died in there. While this is unpleasant, it isn’t dangerous. Turn off your system and call a service specialist to clean and remove the source of the odor.

Rotten Fish Smell

The repulsive rotten fish smell is an indication that some components of your heat pump are overheating. It could be the fan motor, insulation or compressor. If you smell this odor, turn off the system immediately to avoid further damage or a fire hazard.

Remember: safety first. Don’t ignore bad smells coming from your heat pump. If you live in or around Anthem, NV, call Johnny On The Spot right away for repair and maintenance services.

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Heat pumps usually operate in cycles that last 10 to 20 minutes. Therefore, if your system runs continuously, you may need to seek professional HVAC repair services. Here are some reasons for a heat pump constantly running in Blue Diamond, NV:

Refrigerant is Leaking

Refrigerant is a fluid that circulates between the indoor and outdoor coil. The fluid helps to relay heat from one area to another, depending on the season. During winter, the fluid transports heat from outside and brings it into your house.

If the refrigerant starts leaking and its levels reduce, the remaining fluid may not be able to transport sufficient amounts of heat. Therefore, the system continues running, trying to bring in as much heat as possible to reach the thermostat requirements.

Blocked Condenser Coil

The outdoor unit is responsible for absorbing heat from the air during winter. If fur, leaves, debris and dust clog this unit, it can’t draw in air efficiently. This causes your heat pump to operate non-stop.

Scheduling regular maintenance helps to keep your system’s parts clean. You can also put up a fence around your unit to prevent pets from leaving fur when they rub against it.

Clogged Air Filter

An air filter promotes good indoor air quality by catching pollutants in your house. The air filter becomes blocked with time as contaminants continue to pile up. A clogged air filter creates a barrier that doesn’t allow air to pass through freely.

Consequently, your heat pump operates without stopping since drawing air through the filter is an uphill task. Replace your air filter regularly to prevent this problem.

Outdoor Temperatures are Extreme

Heat pumps operate by moving heat from one area to another. Sometimes, the outdoor environment is very cold, and the heat pump has to work harder to absorb enough heat from the air.

Therefore, it continues running, attempting to achieve your desired temperature levels.

We take care of any system malfunction as quickly as possible. Contact Johnny On The Spot if you need professional HVAC services in Blue Diamond, NV.

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