Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Air Conditioning’

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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Can I Save Money with a Heat Pump in Arlington, VA?

Monday, April 8th, 2013

Heat pumps make a great addition to any home in Arlington, VA. They are widely recognized to be one of the most energy efficient ways to cool your home, and they also work during the heating season to provide warmth and comfort. This type of flexibility allows you to save money. If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system, consider a heat pump. Most importantly, though, make sure you opt for reliable and professional installation so you know your system will work well for years to come. If you need a heat pump in Arlington, VA, call the pros at Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Let’s take a look at how a heat pump works. Heat pumps work just like air conditioners. They extract warm air from your home, blow it over the cool refrigerant in the evaporator coils, and return the cooled air into your home. The refrigerant has now been pressurized by the warm air and is sent through to the compressor, where the heat exhausts outside. The cycle then repeats itself. The essential principle behind the heat pump is heat transfer, although we often think of it merely as cool air entering our homes.

But heat pumps are more versatile than your average air conditioner. They are equipped with a device that allows the refrigerant to work in reverse, so that they can draw heat from even the coldest temperature outside to warm the cold air removed from the inside of your home and thereby heat your home. This type of versatility makes them incredibly energy efficient. And that means you save money.

One of the most important things to keep in mind as you shop for heat pumps is their size. For your heat pump to operate correctly, it needs to be properly sized to your unique living space. This requires professional assessment not only of the volume of air in your living space, but perhaps also considering the placement of the heat pump equipment. Professional installation will go a long way towards making sure that your heat pump continues to save you money on your energy bill throughout the year. For more information about our Arlington, VA heat pump and air conditioning services, call Polar Bear Air Conditioning today!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Arlington, Heat Pumps, Northern Virginia
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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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Washington DC Air Conditioning Tip: Things You Should Never Do To Your Air Conditioner

Monday, August 13th, 2012

Whether it’s a large central system or a small on, with proper care and maintenance, your Washington DC air conditioner should last for a quite a while. Sometimes, however, people can do simple things which, in retrospect, should have obviously been avoided.

Some examples:

Don’t block the air intake–air is vital to the process, so laying anything over the unit (a towel or clothes to dry) will significantly strain the motor. Always make sure there is enough clearance.
Don’t block the vents–likewise in a home, it is easy to move a sofa or lay an area rug over a grate in the floor or cover an unsightly vent in the wall with a pretty painting.
Don’t think it will run forever without cleaning the fins, vents and changing the filter at least once a heating season;
Don’t leave the units exposed in winter–always cover when not in use for long periods of time;
Don’t bury the condensate drain in the ground–in central units it is vital that the drain is left with a clear flow away from the house;
Don’t steam clean or use hot water to clean the fins–damage and corrosion can easily be caused by the heat; flush with warm water or spray.
Don’t remove the overload relay to force continuous running–VERY dangerous and a guarantee of damage.

A little attention to your Washington DC air conditioning goes a long way to ensure years of comfort. Call Polar Bear Air Conditioning if you need to schedule a maintenance visit!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Air Conditioning Maintenance, Air Conditioning Repair, Washington DC
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