Johnny On the Spot Blog: Posts Tagged ‘AC Maintenance’

Did You Know Your AC Can Help You to Fight Allergies?

Saturday, October 20th, 2018

You’re doing everything you can to fight the allergies that plague you on a daily basis. You clean meticulously, and you stay inside when the air in Las Vegas, Nevada, is less than ideal. If you’re finding it hard to tackle indoor allergens, your air conditioner could make a difference. In addition to maintaining comfort in your home, your AC can also help you to fight allergies by removing airborne contaminants.

Keep Filters Clean

Particles in the air throughout your home can cause allergic reactions. Ideally, your HVAC system should capture these pollutants via the filter to keep them from circulating. However, while filters help to keep the air clean, they can also present problems if you do not clean or change them regularly. Check your HVAC filter at least once a month. Replace it when dirty to avoid poor indoor air quality and reduced HVAC efficiency.

Improve Air Circulation

An efficient AC improves air circulation. If the system is not moving air effectively or the filter is dirty, clean air circulation will be a problem. A dirty system can also cause contaminants to circulate throughout your home. We provide maintenance services, and our service specialists will thoroughly clean your system. We can also install a whole-home ventilator for enhanced air cleaning. This device moves stale air outside and draws in clean, fresh air.

Manage Humidity

Here in Las Vegas, we don’t need to worry about high humidity, but it’s still important to remember the effect of low humidity. Too little water content in the air can be a problem indoors as well as outdoors. We can ensure your air conditioner and thermostat manage humidity levels year-round. We also have portable and whole-home equipment to help you control humidity.

Your air conditioner does far more than keep you cool; it’s also the key to cleaner air and a healthy home. We’ll help to ensure that your AC helps you fight allergies and protects your household’s overall health. To keep your air conditioner clean and allergens at bay, call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461 and improve your indoor air quality today.

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4 Reasons You Need to Call a Service Specialist Now

Sunday, August 19th, 2018

When you live in Henderson, Nevada, you depend on your air conditioner to keep your family comfortable year-round. Therefore, you need to know the warning signs that your cooling system needs immediate service. From poor airflow to high utility bills, discover how to determine when to call a service specialist.

Insufficient Airflow

If some parts of your home feel overly warm or you don’t feel much air coming from the vents, something’s affecting the flow of air through the system. Replacing the AC filter can help to clear blockages and improve airflow, but that alone won’t always solve the problem. If there’s still a problem, call a service specialist as soon as possible. The experienced team at Johnny On The Spot will check for common issues like thermostat problems, low refrigerant levels, and broken fans.

Unpleasant Odors

Your cooling system should help to improve indoor air quality. If you notice a foul odor, especially when the air conditioner cycles on, check your air filter. The problem could also result from bacteria and debris accumulating within the ductwork or other parts of the system. Give us a call right away to prevent health problems or damage to your air conditioner.

Loud Noises

Most cooling systems make subtle noises when switching on and off. However, louder or more persistent noises can indicate that you need air conditioner maintenance immediately. For example, a rattling noise is often a sign of a broken fan or damage to some other moving part. A buzzing sound can mean that the fan is on its last legs, and popping noises could be pointing to duct problems.

High Utility Bills

Your utility bills may rise and fall based on how you use and take care of your air conditioner. However, dramatic increases can signal a bigger problem. Don’t hesitate to call our team of service experts, so we can determine whether you need a new part, a system calibration, or even a new air conditioner.

Need air conditioner repairs? Call the reliable service specialists at Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461. We look forward to taking care of your air conditioning needs.

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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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How Spring AC Maintenance Helps You Beat the Summer Heat

Tuesday, April 10th, 2018

With an average annual high of 80 degrees and sweltering summer weather that routinely brings triple-digit temperatures, it’s not easy to keep your cool in the Las Vegas, NV, area. It also isn’t cheap. Effective air conditioning is virtually mandatory to live comfortably in the region, and that can often mean high energy costs. While devices like smart thermostats can offer some energy savings, one of the best energy efficiency boosters is also the simplest: routine maintenance. To learn more, let’s take a look at how spring AC maintenance can help you keep your cool – and your cash.

Prepare Your System for Battle

You wouldn’t embark on a cross-country trip without ensuring your car is tuned up and well-maintained, so why head into the scorching heat of summer without making sure your HVAC system is up to the task? Dirty air filters alone can sap up to 15 percent of your system’s energy. Leaky ducts, worn-out mechanical components, and other potential issues could be preventing your HVAC system from operating properly. Professional inspection and a routine maintenance program can identify and correct these problems during spring. We’ll ensure that you benefit from optimal energy efficiency and real savings on your utility bills when the time comes for you to crank up the air conditioning.

Routine Maintenance Can Boost Reliability

While installing a high-quality air conditioning system is certainly a worthwhile investment, having to replace an existing system that has failed is a surprise that no one wants. HVAC system failures are especially problematic in the summer when an unexpected breakdown can mean having to suffer through the heat until you arrange for a new installation. Regular AC maintenance is a great way to boost the service life and reliability of your system, so you save money on repairs and safeguard your home against a system failure at the worst possible time.

An effective and efficient HVAC system is a must-have when you live in the Las Vegas area. To find out what you can do to keep your system working at its best for years to come, check out Johnny On The Spot’s comprehensive maintenance services or call(725) 977-9461 to speak with a helpful representative today.

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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 Mistakes You Are Making With A/C Maintenance

Tuesday, August 15th, 2017

During summer an air conditioning system is sort of a necessity to some residents for a cooler environment. It does help in so many ways from the struggles of the burning heat, which affects the state of persona in the household. However, there are a lot of considerations in owning an air conditioning system and most especially in the maintenance of it. Although their function is pretty simple, air conditioners are fairly complex machines that rely on several components to work properly. As such, even a small mistake can have huge ramifications for the whole AC unit and thus your home comfort. Here are 4 of the most common AC mistakes in the A/C maintenance.

Neglect of Maintenance

Maintenance is extremely important for appliances, especially for air conditioners. Failure to maintain your unit will cause it break down more often or wear out easily. It is advisable that you have a seasonal maintenance program and routinely check your air conditioner. When you’re switching from heating to cooling or the other way around, it is best to have it checked by a professional technician to ensure that all is well.

Operating the Thermostat Incorrectly

If you still use the traditional thermostat, do not set it to a very low temperature at once. If your unit will skip temperatures, you will be wasting more energy and you’ll only make yourself uncomfortable due to rapid shifts in the temperature.

Not Changing Your AC’s Air Filters

Your HVAC system has an air filter that needs to be cleaned or replaced every so often. Depending on the type of unit and its amount of usage, you might need to change the filter as often as every three months or as little as once a year. Failing to change the filter will not only allow dirt and debris to build up, but will also reduce the efficiency of your overall system.

Closing Off Rooms Or Air Vents

You’ve probably heard people say that you can save money on heating and cooling costs by closing off rooms you don’t use. That may have worked in the days of wall-mounted air conditioners and fireplace heating, but with modern central air and heat systems, it actually has the opposite effect. Closing off rooms makes your system work harder, which makes your heating and cooling costs rise.

If you need a new air conditioner, make sure your contractor does a complete load calculation to determine exactly how much cooling capacity your home needs. By taking square footage, layout, insulation, and load-generating appliances into account, your HVAC professional can find your home’s cooling load and recommend an air conditioner that is perfectly sized to meet that cooling need. If you require professional help but don’t know where to start looking, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals over at Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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5 Ways To Keep Your Las Vegas Home Cool For Less

Wednesday, June 14th, 2017

Summer tends to get really hot especially in Las Vegas. It is the time that you make use of your cooling system to get rid of the heat. However, cooling your house doesn’t have to be expensive. There are smart yet efficient ways to save yourself from high energy bill while enjoying the comfort of a cool air surrounding your house.

Want to find out how? Check out below.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

Using a programmable thermostat can help you save on your energy bills a lot. The greatest advantage of a programmable thermostat is that it only functions when you are home. If you are gone to work, for example, it will automatically shut the AC down thus, saving you from the worry that you have forgotten to turn your AC off upon leaving home.

Control Humidity

Another important thing you should consider is regulating the humidity inside your house. Whenever you are running your conditioner, make sure that you are not using any appliances that emit too much heat. For example, avoid using the oven, flat iron, washer or dryer. The presence of additional heat within your home will make it harder for your AC to cool the air. The harder it works the more energy it consumes.

Keep the Air Circulating

If you think ceiling fans are a substitute for air conditioners, then you are wrong. In fact, you should run it together with your AC unit. The presence of the ceiling fan will help circulate the air inside your home. This will make cooling your home faster over a shorter period of time. The faster your inside temperature cools down, the less hard work it is for your AC to cool your home’s atmosphere.

Insulate Your House

When we say insulate, we refer to heat-proofing your house. Not allowing heat to enter your house or letting cool air escape from your house will be easier for your air conditioner to reach its desired temperature. Make sure to cover any unnecessary holes. Use shades or draperies to cover your windows to block off heat especially during summer.

Don’t Forget the Maintenance

Maintenance is vital to our AC units in order for it to run efficiently for a long time. A well-maintained air conditioner can last up to a maximum of fifteen years! Do regular monthly maintenance like changing or cleaning your filters, cleaning your coils, making sure your outdoor unit is free from debris, and have your trusted technician conduct seasonal maintenance.

Try applying these smart yet effective tips in your home and observe the changes in your monthly energy bills. You’d be surprised at how these simple steps can drop the price of your utility bills. If you need more professional help and tips, visit Johnny On The Spot or contact us right away at (725) 977-9461! Our HVAC experts will always be willing to assist you.

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Does The Size Of Your AC Matter?

Monday, May 15th, 2017

The common notion that the bigger the size of an air conditioner the better is not entirely true. Purchasing a small unit may be insufficient if you have a large area to cool. Likewise, opting for something larger than what is necessary might cause harmful molds due to suspended moist in your house.

Picking the right size of air conditioner for your need or use does matter. Below are a few helpful guidelines to help you choose the appropriate AC size.

Match The AC Size To Your Room’s Area

Small rooms only require an AC with a capacity of 5,000 to 6,500 BTU/hr. On the other hand, larger rooms will need an AC with a capacity of 7,000 to 8,500 BTU/hr. BTU means British Thermal Units. But if you’re planning to install an AC for your business establishment, have a professional technician estimate the size and quantity of air conditioners to be used.

However, if you have an air conditioner already installed in your home, how are you to know if it is the appropriate AC size for your room? First look for the manufacturer’s label which has a Model Number (MN). The first three digit determines the SEER ratings while the number that follows determines the BTU. Of course a greater BTU means a bigger AC size.

The British Thermal Unit

BTU is the amount of heat required to raise a certain temperature. In air conditioners, BTU refers to the amount of energy used to remove the heat from the air. You’ll need a higher BTU if you have a large home. The heating or cooling unit will be able to produce more heated or cooled air.

In regards to efficiency, BTU is a good way to compare the capacity of similarly priced units. And if you live in warmer climates, you’ll need 10 – 20% additional BTUs per room over the normal amount.

Equation for Finding the Right AC Size

The equation for finding the correct AC size is very generic. First figure out the square footage that needs cooled and the climate you live in. These will give you a better rough estimate for the air conditioning capacity needed. You can also include the number of windows in your home, ceiling height, typical number of occupants, your ideal temperature and humidity settings in your calculation if you want to be more specific.

Finding the right AC size for your home is like finding the right size of shoes that fits you perfectly. If you need more advice regarding the best AC size for you, visit Johnny On The Spot or call at(725) 977-9461 and we’ll be more than willing to assist you.

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Why Seasonal AC Maintenance Is Important

Monday, March 20th, 2017

Annual HVAC system maintenance is often overlooked by home and proprietary owners. Because if your units are still working and your air conditioning unit is still blowing cool air, everything is okay, right? And if something happens or if it starts to struggle, you can just call a guy, right?

We have all procrastinated and brushed off things before. But when it comes to your air conditioning system and staying comfortable year-round in the Las Vegas area, it can be dangerous to ignore regular maintenance and check-ups. So why is seasonal air conditioning maintenance important?

HVAC & AC Maintenance

The purpose of yearly maintenance is to ensure that your HVAC systems are functioning properly and running any time that you need your air conditioning or heating units. And let’s face it, heating and cooling are a need in Las Vegas homes and businesses.

The closest comparison that many professionals will make to help you understand is comparing your HVAC systems with your car’s engine. While most people know that an engine needs regular fluid changes, check-ups, and occasional repairs…most people now have no clue how to do much more than a couple of basic steps. And without regular oil changes, tune-ups, and repairs any engine will quickly breakdown and need substantial repairs.

Your heating and cooling systems function the same way. Even though we may not think about them daily, they need regular maintenance and tune-ups to prevent breakdowns.

The Benefits of Seasonal Maintenance

  • Fewer Major Repairs: Over time, eventually everyone will experience breakdowns and the need for repairs. But scheduling and keeping up with regular maintenance will substantially lower the chances that your air conditioner experiences a serious problem that will leave you without a comfortable residence and an expensive repair bill.
  • Cheaper Energy Bills: As is often the case with many machines, often your heating and cooling systems can continue to work even as they lose efficiency. HVAC units can use quite a bit of energy. So seasonal air conditioning and HVAC maintenance keep your unit running efficiently, resulting in less stress put on your systems and energy being used.
  • Equipment Lasts Longer: Air conditioners, heating units, and all HVAC units have a life expectancy. Some equipment may last 10-12 years, while other parts may need to be replaced every 2-3 years. But dirty and neglected systems quickly lead to parts and units that malfunction. Wouldn’t you rather pay for a seasonal tune-up instead of replacing major parts and units?

Call Johnny On The Spot Today!

While most are more than capable of changing air filters and learning some basics to save energy, maintenance and tune-ups should be done by professionals. Whether your goal is to save money, improve efficiency, or prevent a mid-summer breakdown, annual maintenance is a must.

Above everything else, calling an established HVAC professional should be your first action when looking for help with your heating and cooling systems. To set up an appointment for seasonal maintenance in the Las Vegas and Henderson areas, contact the experienced and friendly staff at Johnny on the Spot or give us a call today at (725) 977-9461!

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