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

Don’t Miss the Benefits of Spring Heat Pump Tuneups in Las Vegas, NV

Wednesday, March 23rd, 2022

Spring, when one can still bear the heat in Las Vegas, NV, provides the perfect time for a heat pump tuneup. Know that experts recommend such a tuneup once a year; many manufacturers require it, too, or else their warranties become void. Don’t miss the following benefits to scheduling heat pump tuneups regularly:

Lower Energy Bills

Maintenance takes care of a host of small problems that keep a heat pump from running efficiently, such as dirty coils, out-of-balance parts and loose wiring. It can also ensure that your thermostat reads the indoor temperatures correctly. As a result, it turns the system on and off at the appropriate times.

You may see a significant decrease in your energy bill as the heat pump will waste little time and energy in doing its job. Note that one sign of a failing heat pump will be significant increases in the energy bill.

Fewer Major Repairs

You’ll save money on AC repairs because maintenance nips a number of smaller problems in the bud. Let’s take one example to illustrate. Without maintenance, a dirty coil or heat exchanger may cause the heat pump to overheat, putting wear on it and requiring you to buy a new motor before long, which is an expensive repair.

Longer Life for the System

With fewer issues to strain and wear down the heat pump, you can put off a system replacement for years to come, depending on its current age. Heat pumps should ideally last up to 20 years.

Serving Homeowners Since 2010

Johnny On The Spot can take on AC maintenance for your home in Las Vegas, so call today for an appointment. Our service specialists are fully licensed, bonded, and insured and guarantee 100% customer satisfaction with everything they do. We look forward to helping you stay cool this spring and summer.

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4 Signs Your Heat Pump Compressor Needs Replacing

Sunday, February 20th, 2022

Do you use a heat pump to stay warm in winter and cool in summer? It’s important to replace the heat pump compressor in your North Las Vegas, NV, home when you suspect it’s going bad. The signs of this include:

Blows Warm Air in Cooling Mode

This is one of the first signs that your heat pump compressor isn’t working properly. When your system only blows warm air when in cooling mode, it’s time to seek assistance from a certified service specialist.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are a key sign the compressor is on its deathbed, and these electrical issues can be difficult to track down. A professional who specializes in repairing heating and cooling equipment can troubleshoot and repair the problem.

Loud Noises

Occasionally, the noise itself may not indicate damage, but it can be a sign that parts need replacing soon. Several different issues can be the underlying cause of a loud noise, such as a frayed fan belt or loose screws. If your heat pump compressor is still working but making noise while doing so, call us to expertly assess the problem at hand.

Diminished Airflow

Depending on what you’re experiencing, a diminished airflow could be due to a host of things. But in the case of your heat pump compressor, it’s likely due to a clogged filter. Keep filters clean and clear at all times, and be sure to schedule routine maintenance with a service specialist to avoid costly breakdowns.

Compressors are the most important part to take care of when it comes to your HVAC system. If you have any doubts about whether you need a new heat pump compressor, feel free to contact one of the friendly and knowledgeable service specialists at Johnny On The Spot for more information. We can help right away.

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3 AC Odors and What They Mean for Your System

Sunday, July 11th, 2021

When using your air conditioner during the summer, you may notice it emanates nasty smells. It may be the typical dusty smell or some other more pungent odor. Here are three offensive AC odors that may linger in your Summerlin, NV, home and what they mean.

Dirty-Sock Smell

Your air conditioning system won’t produce this nasty odor normally. If your AC system releases a stinky sock smell, it simply means the coils need a thorough cleaning. The dirty sock odor results from bacterial growth and dirt particles accumulating in the AC system’s evaporator coils.

It’s not an odor you want to keep for long, so shut off your air conditioner and call a service specialist. AC repair and maintenance specialists know the easy way to clean evaporator coils and sanitize your AC condenser.

Garbage-Like Odor

In fear of the hot summer weather, small animals make your AC system their home. The sad reality is that not every animal that enters your air conditioner will leave alive. Some die in the process and are probably the reason behind the garbage-like odor coming from your air conditioning system.

Removing these animals may seem like an easy job until you try it. Avoid the trouble and contact a professional.

Burning Smell

In some instances, your air conditioning system may generate a burning odor. The burning smell occurs when something is actually burning inside the air conditioner. Leaving it to run longer could end up causing more damage.

Once you discover that burning smell, switch off your AC system and call a service specialist. They will inspect the motor, wires and every other part for problems and troubleshoot the issue before it gets worse.

For all your air conditioner repairs and maintenance services, contact us at at Johnny On The Spot. Our certified service specialists have years of experience servicing different models and brands of AC systems.

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What are AC Refrigerant Tubes and Why Do They Matter?

Sunday, April 26th, 2020

If you live in Las Vegas, NV, you’ll want to know more about your central air conditioner and its refrigerant tubes. Keeping your family cool is a priority in the summer desert heat while you spend a lot of your time indoors. Read on to learn what AC refrigerant tubes are and why they matter to your comfort.

AC Refrigerant Tubes

AC refrigerant system piping or tubing is often made from copper. Movement and the change of state (evaporation and condensation) of refrigerants between an outdoor condenser coil and an indoor evaporator coil are what make the system work. In some cases, the pipes are flexible and can bend. AC tubing is charged with nitrogen and then sealed. The tubing provides a path for the refrigerant to flow between components of the system.

Air Conditioning Maintenance

Knowing how to troubleshoot any problems with cooling is essential for comfort during hot Las Vegas summers. An AC repair visit by a service specialist can ensure the best working condition of your AC system, avoiding troublesome breakdowns during the summer. A service specialist will do the following:

  • Check the connections.
  • Clean the coils.
  • Look for worn parts and repair them.

Is It Time for a New Air Conditioner?

Even with maintenance, you should know when it’s time to replace your air conditioning system with a newer and more efficient model. This will save you money on future repairs and keep you, your family and pets comfortable during the hottest parts of the Las Vegas summer.

Johnny On the Spot has the information you need on the importance of refrigerant tubes in your AC system. To schedule maintenance before the summer, call our team today. We are standing by to help make sure your cooling system is ready to beat the heat and keep your family feeling comfortable.

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Why is My Air Conditioner Cycling On and Off Frequently?

Sunday, August 18th, 2019

Air conditioning is essential when you live in Las Vegas, Nevada. One of the more common issues that can cause an air conditioner to malfunction is short cycling. This is when an air conditioner switches off and on repeatedly before completing its cooling cycle. Fortunately, this issue is repairable. Here’s everything you need to know about short cycling, including what to do when it happens. And if your system is older and struggling with frequent breakdowns, you may want to consider why fall is the best time to replace your AC unit.

Why your AC is short‑cycling?

  • Check the air filter — If it’s clogged or dirty, airflow drops and the unit may overheat and shut off prematurely.
  • Inspect the thermostat — A faulty or miscalibrated thermostat can trigger frequent on/off cycles.
  • Verify refrigerant levels — Low refrigerant causes overheating and automatic shutdowns to protect the system.
  • Electrical issues — Problems with the electrical board or control wiring can cause erratic cycling. 
  • Call HVAC repair service — If basic checks don’t fix the issue, a technician should diagnose more complex problems to prevent damage and prolong system life.

Why is My Air Conditioner Short Cycling?

Short cycling is generally caused by common issues a professional service technician can repair easily. The thermostat, which regulates temperature and tells your air conditioner when to turn on and off, might need replacing. Or, the air filter has clogged. This prevents the filter from drawing in enough air, causing it to overheat and switch off. If your AC unit’s refrigerant levels are low, it might turn itself off to avoid overheating, as well. Further, a malfunctioning electrical board can cause an air conditioner to turn on and off at improper times. In some cases, these warning signs are just another example of how an AC repair can sneak up on you.

Why Short Cycling is Bad

An air conditioner that short cycles requires professional repair or maintenance. If you choose to ignore the problem, it’ll get worse. As a result, it’ll reduce your air conditioner’s lifespan in the process. This is due to the excessive strain short cycling puts on the unit’s fans, bearings and other components.

What to Do About Short Cycling

First, check your air filter and replace it if it’s excessively dirty. If this doesn’t fix the problem, a clogged filter isn’t to blame. In this case, the resolution is probably not going to be a quick, do-it-yourself fix. You’ll need to have your unit repaired by a professional as soon as possible to avoid causing further damage. We can diagnose and repair the problem quickly, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your air conditioning again. To reduce the chances of this happening next season, it’s a good idea to add AC maintenance to your spring checklist.

Don’t put up with an air conditioner that isn’t working properly. Call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461 for help solving your short cycling problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What causes an AC to short cycle (turn on and off too frequently)?
Answer: Common causes include a thermostat that’s failing or miscalibrated, a clogged air filter restricting airflow, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning electrical control board. Any of these can make the AC cycle irregularly.

Question: Why is short cycling bad for my air conditioner?
Answer: It puts excessive strain on the system’s components—fans, bearings, compressor—and can lead to decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and shorter lifespan of the unit.

Question: What should I check first if my AC is short cycling?
Answer:
Inspect and replace a dirty air filter if needed. That’s a common and easy fix. If that doesn’t solve it, the problem is likely more complex and may require professional diagnosis.

Question: When is professional help required for short cycling?
Answer:
If replacing the filter doesn’t help, or if issues involve thermostat problems, electrical controls, refrigerant handling, or repeated cycle failures, you should call a certified HVAC technician to prevent damage.

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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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