Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

McLean, VA Air Conditioning FAQ: Is Routine Maintenance Necessary

Monday, May 6th, 2013

Homeowners throughout the McLean, VA area are gearing up their air conditioning systems for the heat and humidity of the summer months. One question that we often get asked is whether routine maintenance is necessary. Well, that probably depends upon your point of view. Necessary to what? To energy efficiency, performance, indoor air quality, and possibly even your manufacturer’s warranty? Yes, it most certainly is. If you have received professional installation for your AC, then you’re well on your way to lasting home comfort, but don’t stop there. Professional routine maintenance is a cost-effective way to ensure that your home stays crisp and cool all summer long. Call the McLean, VA air conditioning pros at Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating today!

Professional maintenance visits involves comprehensive inspection, cleaning and tune-ups of all aspects of your system. Inspecting equipment for unsafe conditions, refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, clogged condensate drains, among others, allows your tech a close-up view of the details of your system. Cleaning of coils and filters, and lubrication of motor parts allow your AC to work as it should.

Performance: You can’t expect a neglected air conditioning system to perform as it should. Even high-end models that are designed to be powerful will gradually become less effective if they are not routinely maintained. Performance depends upon clean coils, efficient airflow, and the integrity of the electrical systems.
Energy efficiency: With good performance comes high energy efficiency. You need your AC not only to bring you cool air, but also to do it efficiently. While we cannot control the cost of energy in our area, we can control how we use it. By keeping your system clean and tuned-up on a routine basis, you can keep your energy bills to a minimum.
Manufacturer’s warranty: Depending on how old your AC is and who installed it, professional routine maintenance may actually be necessary in order to make sure your AC is protected. Speak to your installer or refer to your information packet for further details.

If you’re still unconvinced as to the merits of professional McLean, VA air conditioning maintenance, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning & heating today to learn more about our services!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Maintenance, Alexandria, Arlington, Mclean
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3 Common Air Conditioning Repairs in Arlington, VA

Monday, April 29th, 2013

As we gear up for the summer here in Arlington, VA, homeowners throughout the area are making sure that their air conditioning systems work well. During the off-season, your AC may have developed a few quirks, or perhaps you managed to stave off a problem at the end of the last cooling season that will now need to be dealt with. Whatever your situation, it’s critical that you hire a professional to make any necessary repairs on your AC, be it a central split or packaged system. We’d like to share with you 3 common air conditioning problems, with the hope that it might help you identify a minor issue before it balloons into a serious problem, or causes an inconvenient breakdown during the hottest days of summer. For air conditioning services in Arlington, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Frozen evaporator coil: Your evaporator coil cools the warm air in your home. As it cools the air, the water vapor in the air condenses on the coils. If your AC has air flow problems or low refrigerant, that water vapor can freeze on the coils instead of draining, which prevents your AC from cooling effectively.
Overheated compressor: If there is any disruption of the airflow within your AC, then it can cause serious problems in other areas of the system, not to mention poor energy efficiency. For example, if your air filter is clogged with dust and debris, it can cause your system to work harder, so much so that your compressor may overheat. Your compressor is the major engine of the cooling cycle; it pressurizes the refrigerant, causing it to circulate throughout the coils. If it overheats, you may have to be replace it.
Condensate drain leak: There is a condensate drain pan fitted beneath your evaporator coil that catches the water vapor condensation on the external surface of the coils. Over time, or because of physical damage, it may begin to leak into your air handler, or outside the indoor unit.

Whatever your AC problem, we are here to help. When you need excellent air conditioning repair in Arlington, VA, call the experts at Polar Bear Air Conditioning.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Alexandria, Arlington, Mclean
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Washington DC Air Conditioning Guide: Why Won’t My AC Turn On?

Monday, April 22nd, 2013

As the cooling season approaches in Washington, DC, homeowners and tenants throughout the area are turning on their air conditioning systems to ensure that they are ready to go for the hot months. We rely a lot on our air conditioning systems, and it’s no wonder that with all the use they get over the years, that there may come a time when they need professional repair. One of the most common problems that we encounter is when a client’s AC won’t turn on. In this post, we’d like to review some possible causes for this problem. For Washington, DC air conditioning service, call the experts at Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating today!

Thermostat fault: First, you should double-check your thermostat. Make sure it’s set to a temperature that calls for cooling, and that the fan is on. If this doesn’t change anything, then there may be a connectivity issue between it and the air handler, which sends cool air into your ductwork to be distributed into your living spaces. The thermostat may also be improperly calibrated, so that it’s not sensing the temperature of your indoor air properly.
Electrical problem: If your AC won’t turn on, the problem is likely electrical in nature. There are various control switches to your AC, both at the air handler and the outdoor condenser/compressor. Make sure that both are in the on position. You should also check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker, both of which can affect the power supply to your AC.
Condensate drain pan overflow: Often, air conditioners have a water overflow shutoff switch that cuts off the power should water leak into the air handler. This is to prevent electrical damage. Because your evaporator coil causes water vapor to condense on the surface of its coils, there is a condensate drain pan located just beneath them to catch and drain any water away from the mechanical parts of the air handler. If this overflows because of a clog in the drainpipe, then your AC may automatically shut itself off.

We hope this gives you some idea as to the range of problems that can cause an AC to fail to turn on. For more information, or to schedule Washington, DC air conditioning service, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating today!

Tags: AC Won't Turn On, Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Washington
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Washington D.C. Air Conditioning and Air Quality Issues

Monday, April 15th, 2013

Air conditioning and air quality often go hand in hand, just like heat and humidity. In Washington D.C., we rely on our air conditioning to provide crisp, cool air so that when we come home after a long day, we can enjoy respite from the hot sun outside. Your air conditioner provides some dehumidification in the process, and its air filter does remove some of the pollutants that can find their way into your home living space, but in order to improve your total comfort, you need to ensure that your indoor air quality is high during the cooling season. In this post, we’d like to address this relation by recommending some ways you can improve both your air conditioning and your indoor air quality. For Washington D.C. air conditioning services, call the experts at Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Air filtration: Your air conditioner’s air filter is designed to prevent dust and debris from ruining the mechanical parts of your air conditioning system. While this provides some air filtration for your indoor air, it is not designed to provide comprehensive air filtration, which may be necessary if your home suffers from contaminants and pollutants, such as pollen, dander, bacteria, and dust mites. Consult with an air filtration and air cleaner expert to see which whole-home option would be best for you.
UV germicidal lights: Ultraviolet light destroys microorganisms before they enter your ductwork. UV germicidal lights are a relatively simple device, although they require professional installation to work correctly. They are installed directly into your air handler.
Enroll in a maintenance program: Professional inspection, cleaning, and tune-ups are the best ways to keep your air conditioning working well and your air quality high. By enrolling in a preventive maintenance program, you are ensuring that your system is always working as efficiently and effectively as possible.

While our modern homes are energy efficient, they often prevent adequate ventilation. The EPA lists indoor air pollution as one of the top 5 environmental risks to our health. For Washington D.C. air conditioning and indoor air quality services, call the experts at Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Repair, Indoor Air Quality, Washington, Washington D.C.
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How Ducts Can Affect Air Conditioning Efficiency in Alexandria, VA

Monday, April 1st, 2013

Central air conditioning system are very popular. Many homeowners fail to realize, however, just how important the condition of their air ducts is to the operation of their air conditioning system. Just because your air ducts are tucked away behind your walls and in other inaccessible areas does not meant that you can afford to ignore them. In fact, your Alexandria, VA air conditioning system can be seriously compromised by problems with your air ducts. Consider this information from Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating about how air ducts can affect your air conditioning efficiency in Alexandria, VA.

One of the most obvious ways that air ducts can affect the efficiency with which your air conditioning system operates is if they are damaged. Improperly installed, torn or otherwise compromised air ducts will allow conditioned air to leak out of the system before it arrives at its destination. This causes a few different problems. First of all, if this air keeps escaping then your air conditioning system is going to need to consume more energy in order to replace that which has been lost. This is a big problem in and of itself, but there is another way in which this can wind up costing you money. Forcing your air conditioner to operate with this extra strain on it can lead to damages within your system.

Dirty air ducts are another problem than can affect the efficiency of your air conditioning system. While it may take a pretty serious buildup of dirt and debris to really inhibit airflow in your air ducts, there are your filters to think about. If there is a lot of dust and other pollutants circulating through your ductwork then the filters can restrict airflow, reducing efficiency. Also, the pollutants can make their way into your HVAC equipment and lead to complications therein.

For more information about the importance of the condition of your ductwork, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating. We are happy to help you better understand how ducts can affect air conditioning efficiency in Alexandria, VA. Call today to learn more.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Efficiency, Alexandria, Duct Repair, Ductwork
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Efficient Air Conditioning in McLean, VA

Monday, March 25th, 2013

As spring approaches, homeowners throughout the McLean, VA area know that the summer heat is not far away. Efficient air conditioning is an absolute must-have here, due to the amount of energy that we use each year to ensure our homes are cool and comfortable. Right now is the best time to make sure that you’re primed for this cooling season. One of the most common requests we hear from our customers is how they can make their home AC system more efficient; that is, how they can save money on their energy bill. We’ve compiled a list of some energy-efficient tips that we hope will help you maximize your cooling this summer. For efficient air conditioning in McLean, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Clean and replace your air filter: Did you know that your AC’s air filter impacts energy efficiency? If your air filter is dirty or even clogged, it can begin to inhibit airflow. This makes your system work harder to cool your home, placing a higher demand on your electrical supply. Regularly clean and replace your air filter during the cooling season.
Enroll in a maintenance program: Enrolling in a routine preventive maintenance program is the best way to improve the energy efficiency of your cooling system. During this annual inspection, your local AC technician will thoroughly inspect, clean, and lubricate your system components, as well as write up recommendations if there are any repairs necessary. Your AC needs professional care to work properly. Every system, from newly installed models to units over 10 years old, could benefit from a maintenance program.
Install a programmable thermostat: You depend upon your conventional thermostat to communicate your desired temperature accurately to the AC unit. Imagine if you no longer had to turn it one when you came home or off when you go to bed at night. A programmable thermostat automates your indoor climate control to ensure that changes in temperature are performed gradually, thereby improving energy efficiency.

These are just a few of the ways to achieve efficient air conditioning. To talk to a pro about your air conditioning in McLean, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Efficiency, Alexandria, Arlington, Mclean
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Why Install a New AC System in the Spring in Arlington, VA

Monday, March 18th, 2013

Spring is a popular time of year for cleaning, organizing, and renovating, but it’s also a great time to improve your cooling system. While many homeowners will schedule inspection and tune-ups, as well as enroll in preventive maintenance plans, other may be in the market for a new AC system before the summer heat hits. It’s a great idea. Now is the ideal time to switch to that high-efficiency system you’ve always wanted. For air conditioning installation in Arlington, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

There are some good reasons why you should consider installing an air conditioning system now before the summer:

Energy efficiency. Depending on the type and size of the system you install, you will in general improve the energy efficiency of your home with a new installation, especially if your existing system is over 10 years old. With technology always advancing, the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of today’s units are often much better. As the standards of manufacturing quality have risen, so will your energy savings.
Timing. Why now? While we try to make air conditioning system installation a smooth process with no disruptions, any system replacement is going to take some time to be done properly. During the summer heat, that means cooling downtime. The cooling pre-season is a great way to get ready for summer and ensure that you enjoy your new AC on even the hottest days of the year.

Don’t wait until the summer heat begins to make your old system work overtime, consider a new AC system today. For air conditioning installation in Arlington, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Installation, Alexandria, Arlington, Mclean
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Alexandria, VA AC Guide: Air Conditioning Replacement Options

Monday, March 11th, 2013

If you’re in the market for air conditioning replacement in Alexandria, VA, there are many different options. You can upgrade to a more efficient AC system, or you can choose to switch to a different system entirely. It all depends upon your cooling needs, your home, and your budget. However, the most important aspect of any air conditioning replacement is the quality of the workmanship. Without professional consultation and installation, your new air conditioner may disappoint you. When you need to talk to a pro about your air conditioning replacement options in Alexandria, VA, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning and Heating.

Let’s look at some of your options for replacing your current AC:

Central Air Conditioning. A classic split system is perhaps the most popular kind of AC system. Not only are they cost-effective, but they reduce heat and noise by placing your condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit. This allows your home to cool that much faster. Central air circulates cool air through an extensive system of ductwork and into your living spaces. Whether you already have ductwork, or need an efficient and cost-effective cooling solution, consider a central air conditioning replacement.
Heat Pump. A heat pump works similarly to a central AC system, but with one important difference. A heat pump transfers heat outside of your home during the heating season and transfers it indoors during the cooling season. It is a complete cooling and heating package. This can be paired with a digital or wireless thermostat to make sure it keeps your home comfortable no matter what the season.

Remember that how it is installed has a huge impact on how effectively your AC system works. Call Polar Bear Air Conditioning and Heating today for comprehensive Alexandria, VA air conditioning services, including installation, repair, and maintenance.

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Replacement, Alexandria, Central Air Conditioning, Heat Pump
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Washington DC Air Conditioning Repair Guide: Air Conditioning Condensate Problems

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

The beauty of air conditioning in Washington DC is that we don’t have to do anything to live in a cool climate even when it’s boiling outside. Programmed to adjust automatically, modern thermostats make it even easier.

Air Conditioning 101

The process of conditioning air to a cooler temperature involves rapid evaporation and condensation of chemicals called refrigerants. These are compounds having properties that allow them to change from liquid to gas and back at low temperatures.

When the liquid evaporates and transforms into gas it absorbs heat. Compressed tightly together again, the matter condenses back into liquid with a residue of unwanted moist heat that must be released to the outdoors.

Over the course of handling the air to cool it, air conditioners are able to filter dust and dehumidify the air as well. This release of moisture is why air conditioners have drains.

Condenser Coils

As the heat is removed from the gas, it forms condensation that must be drained from the system. Tiny particles accumulate along the path, prone to shifting and resettling until they become lodged and can form a significant enough blockage to hamper the efficiency of the unit. If the drain line becomes blocked, the unit drips or overflows the pan and works its way back into the house, causing damage and potentially mold.

Easy Fix

A simple act of maintenance performed twice a year and requiring no tools can eliminate the problem. To check and maintain your condensate drain, these are the steps your AC technician will perform:

On the interior side, they will remove the panel of the unit and find the drain line, usually a plastic tube. If the pan is full of water, there is a blockage. On a whole house system, they then find where the plastic tube exits the house, making sure that it is above ground and clear to drain away. Flush the line with a short burst from a hose.

Regular maintenance is simply a 1/2 cup of warm water poured down the tube to ensure a clean and free flowing pipe, which can be taken care of during your annual maintenance visit. Call Polar Bear Air Conditioning and Heating today if you need heating or air conditioning service in Washington DC and the surrounding area!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Maintenance, Air Conditioning Repair, Washington DC
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Washington DC Air Conditioning Tip: Programmable Thermostats and Your AC

Monday, August 20th, 2012

Air conditioning makes our Washington DC homes comfortable during a hot summer day. However, air conditioners need electricity to run, and most of us are trying to reduce our home’s energy consumption. There are a number of ways you can make your air conditioning system more efficient, including upgrading to an ENERGY STAR rated unit and scheduling regular maintenance, but one of the easiest steps to implement is installing a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats automatically adjust the temperature in your home depending on the time of day. You can save up to 10 percent a year by turning down your thermostat back ten degrees for eight hours a day! Most models allow you to store multiple daily settings, so you can turn you air conditioner down during the day when you are at work and while you are sleeping, and still have the temperature cooler when you need it. You can also still manually adjust the temperature without affecting the normal settings, giving you complete control and helping you save energy.

Programmable thermostats are not all made the same, and there are many different makes and models. An HVAC contractor will go over the different features available to you so you can decide which best fits your needs. Different thermostats work better with different systems, for instance some heat pumps need thermostats that have multi-stage functions, so it is best to consult with a Washington DC air conditioning and heating professional before deciding what to purchase.

Programmable thermostats allow you to save energy without sacrificing comfort, which is something that all of us are looking for. If you are looking for a simple, affordable way to improve your HVAC system, a programmable thermostat is a great choice. Most are easy to read and easy to use, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today to learn more about having a programmable thermostat installed in your home!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Installation, Energy Efficiency, Washington DC
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