Thursday, July 19, 2018

How Storms in Phoenix Arizona Wreak Havoc on AC Units

How Monsoon/Dust Storms in Phoenix Arizona Wreak Havoc on AC Units


Phoenix, Arizona is an area of untethered beauty, and most people who live or have visited the place will agree. However, it has a rather peculiar weather pattern that is astonishing in many regards. Take the summer monsoon season, where Phoenix and the entire Arizona region experiences the dreaded combination of intense thunderstorms, high winds, and dust clouds that can reach thousands of feet in height. Nonetheless, when living in this region, one gets used to these phenomena.

However, the air conditioning system does not. While every AC system is designed with the exterior components being reinforced and hardened withstand mother nature’s fury, being bombarded with sandstorms, hail storm, and even lightning bolts can take a toll on the resilience of the system.

With this in mind, we will explore some of the various ways sandstorm wreak havoc on AC systems, the preventive measures that Phoenix residents should take to mitigate potential damage on their cooling systems and cost associated with fixing AC units when various forms of damages do occur.  Sometimes the damage even requires a new AC installation.

2 inch hail ball that damaged an AC unit

AC Damage During The Monsoon


During the monsoon, the environmental conditions under which the AC is working are not typical due to the extreme weather phenomena. Therefore, you can expect the entire HVAC or its subsystems to suffer a bit. For starters, due to the dust storms, there is more dust in the air. This situation results in clogged air filters much faster than usual. If the air filter is not changed, you can expect the airflow through the system to be negatively impacted resulting increased inefficiency. Additionally, the system will overwork to overcome the inefficiency. Such as a situation will negatively impact the life of the system and cause an increased frequency of component failures and system breakdowns.

A problem that s quite prominent during the monsoon season is the increased cases of lightning. With torrential rainstorms the norm, Phoenix also experiences increased frequency of lightning. This increases the risk of HVAC destroying electrical surges exponentially. Furthermore, the combination of dust storms, gusty winds, and torrential rains occur, they affect the power line, increasing the possibility of power surges when the lines get entangled.

There is also an issue of the dust collecting in the drain lines. When ample dust accumulates in the drain line, it is clogged, resulting in excess moisture build up in the drain pan. This affects the cooling capability of your AC, resulting in energy wastage.

Monsoon dust storm sweeping across PhoenixDamage Prevention Tips


There are several suggestions that you can observe to protect your HVAC systems. While you cannot protect your system entirely from damage, the combination of the following tips will work to decrease the chance of system failures emanating from sand and hail storms.

Tip #1. Invest In A Whole-House Electricity Surge Protector - During the Monsoon seasons; lighting is a risk that cannot be ignored. Additionally, the risk of falling power line and the associated power surges require that you have an efficient and capable power surge protection unit. While most homeowners think that a power strip will suffice, in most cases it does not. With this in mind, you should contemplate buying a whole-house power surge protector, which will keep all your electrical appliances, not just our HVAC system, safe.

Tip #2. Trim Your Trees - The risk of having weak tree branches lurking on your tree are all well known to homeowners. With the torrential summer rains and the gusty winds blowing strongly, it is essential to ensure that there will be no tree branches falling on your AC. As such, you need to trim all the trees surrounding your house for the safety of your AC as well as the safety of your entire property.

Tip #3. Have A Preferred HVAC Contractor In Your Contact Beforehand - It common practice for people to have their doctors contact with them at all time, just in case you have an emergency, and you need to contact someone. The same situation applies to HVACs. You need to identify an HVAC contractor who you can trust before the monsoon season kicks-off. In doing this, you ready yourself for any eventuality, and you do not have to scramble trying to identify an HVAC technical you can trust when you are desperate.

Tip #4. Have Your HVAC’s Ductwork Inspected And Properly Sealed Beforehand - During a dust storm, dust particles are forced through all opening available in your house, including the attic’s vents and other unintended openings. This allows a lot of dust to accumulate inside the attic. If your ductwork is poorly sealed, there is a possibility of the dust finding its way into the ductwork, and after that being flushing into your house when you start using the AC. To avoid such a scenario, have professional HVAC technicians inspect your entire ductwork right before the start of the monsoon season. If there are any leaked, have them sealed.

Tip #5. Have Your HVAC System Serviced - If you have skipped on any scheduled maintenance, it is time to reschedule the maintenance service. You should have your HVAC system serviced right before the start of the monsoon season. This will ensure that everything in your HVAC unit is working correctly and nothing is susceptible to failures and breakdowns.

Tip # 6. Stock Up On Right-Sized Air Filters - With so much dust swirling around in Phoenix during the monsoon months, you can be sure that your air filters will get clogs quite frequently. As such, you should purchase an ample stock of air filters to ensure that whenever a change is necessary, you have the right inputs for the task.

Cost Associated With Fixing The Unit


In some cases, the cost associated with fixing the unit can be somewhat difficult to estimate. For instance, if you consider the repairs done due to a homeowner not being active in taking care of their AC system during the monsoon season, understanding every aspect that contributes to fixing problems that arise during the monsoon can be difficult.

Did your AC get hit by the storm? Contact us today!


623-386-7804

Monday, July 16, 2018

Common HVAC Problems In Phoenix

Common HVAC Problems In Phoenix


Commercial HVAC systems are required for businesses in the city of Phoenix, but the need for heat is going to be a lot less frequent than the need for some decent air conditioning. Anyone who has experienced a broken AC unit in this city knows how quickly even a small home in the shade can heat up and the importance of speedy service. A full commercial HVAC system is even more critical to keep up to date and functioning at its full capacity.

The good news is that the professional HVAC specialists, like Icon Mechanical, who provide service around the Phoenix area understand just how crucial it is to offer fast service and get things up and running again. While homes can get by with a little bit of improvisation for a while, a commercial system impacts more things and requires far more attention.

Phoenix HVAC system repair options


The Two Most Common Commercial HVAC Issues


While several potential issues can cause an HVAC system to break down, generally speaking, most problems can be tied to one of two possible issues. These will account for the overwhelming number of cases that HVAC specialists will run into, and it's why these professionals will understand these two issues inside and out, and look for them first at a new job site every time.

Common HVAC Problem #1: A Faulty Thermostat


This is the most common problem that comes up with any commercial system. HVAC systems are designed so that they can work automatically. This is supposed to create a smooth transition when needed, and the thermostat itself is the part that is responsible for switching the system between its two modes: heating and cooling. This can cause problems in a variety of ways.

Not only can this lead to overheating because the HVAC isn't kicking in with air conditioning when it should, but it can lead to overheating from the HVAC continuing to throw out heat even when the temperatures are too hot as it is, and the opposite problem can also take place: over-cooling of rooms. Whether this is AC refusing to shut off when it's cool or temperate outside, or the air conditioner stays on all the time even when interior rooms are frigid, it's an issue.

There are many different specific ways a faulty thermometer can screw up the day, but the results are the same either way; a building that is far too hot or far too cold. Either way, that's not an optimal business setting.

Many times a faulty thermostat is the result of low batteries, mechanical damage, or frequent adjustment - or a combination of these three factors. This is a relatively common problem, and because of that, it is one that can also often be relatively easily handled by a commercial HVAC specialist.

Common HVAC Problem #2: Coolant Problems


When it comes to figuring out the HVAC issues, the second most common problem to pop up would be issues with the coolant. You see, at their core the cooling system that air conditioners (the AC in HVAC) use goes off of the same mechanical principles as any common refrigerator. While some newer models have an evolved version of this, on older units as many older commercial buildings have, coolant will run through an evaporator as well as a condenser.

This allows the heat to be carried away to the outside while cool air remains in its place. However, if the coolant leaks then that expected and necessary cooling won't happen. The best indicator that a coolant problem comes when you experience multiple abnormal temperature spikes. Another sign is when the air conditioner side of the HVAC is running, but the temperature of the room just isn't dropping.
Phoenix HVAC tech servicing AC unit

You Need A Trusted Contractor


You always want a contractor who is licensed, bonded, and insured, but that is just the very beginning. That should be a minimum level of requirement before you consider hiring an HVAC repair company to tackle your commercial work. The second step is questioning them on their ability to handle a commercial level job and what their level of experience is. There is a massive difference between commercial HVAC repairs and residential HVAC repairs and the skill sets required to handle both are not interchangeable.

In addition to this, make sure to ask for references or check online rating sites. While you want to act fast as even a tiny HVAC issue can quickly grow and escalate, you don't want to find out the troubles that come from hiring the wrong contractors. Reliable, trustworthy, and experienced are just three of the adjectives you want to hear when someone is describing a specialist you're looking to hire.

Give as much information as possible. Most professionals want to leave a good impression, and most have good connections with others in the industry. If a job is honestly too big for a small company that is swamped, chances are they still have a good recommendation they're willing to give.

If you're going to be living in Phoenix, you need your air conditioning to be on top of its game, and this is true whether residential or commercial. Not a lot of business is going to be getting done if your building isn't insulated from 110-degree summer heat outside. The same is true if the HVAC won't shut off and you're wearing winter coats indoors. Whenever even the smallest of persistent issues crop up, it's time to call a local HVAC repair specialist.

Having problems with your HVAC?
Contact us today!


623-386-7804

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Common Air Duct Problems That Impact Your Home Comfort

Common Air Duct Problems That Impact Your Home Comfort


In many regards, HVAC systems have become indispensable appliances on the home comfort front. Conditioning air to meet your needs concerning temperature and humidity levels is something that many homeowners have come to love, enjoy, and expect. However, with the advancement of air conditioning system technology, we are now relying on HVAC to make our houses clean and healthy by dealing with indoor air pollution. This further increases the value of these systems in our homes.

However, these benefits are only experienced when the entire system is functioning efficiently. This is something we appreciate as an experienced team residential AC service provider and homeowners as well. As such, we will explore some of the problems that the typical air ducts face, keeping in mind that this part of the system is a considerable source of system inefficiencies. Importantly, we will also delve into what to expect if you do not rectify the air duct problems when they arise.

A Poorly Designed System


The National Comfort Institute suggests that on average, the ductwork system in the U.S. is only about 57% efficient. The efficiencies in the system tend to come from various avenues, albeit inherent poor design is the major source of inefficiencies. At this point, you should note that there is no one-size-fits-all duct system in existence. Every house will have a unique layout and differ from other properties regarding space. This means that every house should have a ductwork system designed that is well-designed for its own needs and peculiarities.

Anything short of a stellar design will lead to poor airflow in the system, thereby causing ductwork inefficiencies. This, in turn, causes energy losses (which is just loss of money). Additionally, since it cannot perform its function as it should, homeowners end up with a poorly air-conditioned home, which should not be the case. In the long run, the monetary loses and the less than stellar air conditioning means that you do not enjoy a comfortable house and you suffer financially trying to keep your home comfortable.

Dirty Ductworks


Dirt is an enemy to any HVAC efficiency. While air filters help to mitigate the extent of dirt build up in the form of dust, dead bugs, cobwebs, pollen, and much more from occurring, there are chances of dirt getting into and accumulating in the duct system. This accumulation affects the air flow in the duct and negatively impacts the cooling and heating units. Importantly though, accumulation of dirt in the system results in the supply of polluted air. The EPA reckons that on average, indoor air in American houses is about 100 times more polluted than outdoor air. This is a grime statistic, and as long as you do not invest in cleaning your HVAC’s ductwork, you put your health at risk.

Leaking Ducts


Improper alignment, duct detachments, and poorly sealed ducts can cause unwanted air leaks. This affects the overall airflow in the ductwork, affecting the efficiencies in the system. Unfortunately, this is far too common in our houses. On average, an HVAC system will lose anything from 15% to 40% of the air circulating in the system through air leaks in the ducts.

A consequence of this is that your system will have to work harder to achieve the set goals, thereby affecting the life of the system. Also, losing some of the conditioned air and having to suck in more air than necessary leads to energy loses.
HVAC Tech inspecting air duct work

Structurally Unsound Air Ducts Resulting In Restricted Air Flow


An HVAC system can only work efficiently when the airflow in the ductwork is unhampered and consistent. When the ductwork suffers from twists, crushes, kinks, or tears (especially in the case of plastic ducts), the airflow becomes restricted. As such, most HVAC systems will overwork to pull and supply more air, resulting in energy waste (with the associated higher energy bills and an increased environmental footprint), a shortened life for the HVAC system, and frequent breakdowns and failures.

Poorly Sealed Grill And Registers


As you might appreciate, having your windows open while your air conditioning system is running is never a good idea. For starters, you lose the conditioned air, which when you think more in-depth about it, means you are loosing the air that you have paid to cool. Additionally, because you are losing air and you still want a comfortable house, intuitively, you will have to crank up the system to meet your demands, therefore, overworking the system.

Now, I know you might be thinking “I would never leave my windows open while overworking my HVAC system.” This is true, for the most part as very few people would consider doing this. However, when you have poorly ductwork sealed drills and registers, the result will be the same. You end up losing conditioned air even before it has entered the rooms to create the comfort for which you are paying.

In effect, you end up losing money as the lost conditioned air does not do what it was supposed to in the first place. Aside from losing money, you overwork your HVAC system, making the entire system or some of its parts susceptible to breakdowns and repairs.

Poorly Insulated Air Ducts Or Air Ducts Not Insulated


While air leaks are the number one source of loss of conditioned and controlled air, there are other methods of losses such heat exchange along the ductwork. When the ducts are not insulated or well insulated, they result in loss of heat during the winter months and gain of heat during the summer months. These inefficiencies result in similar consequences as the air leaks in the ductwork.

These are a few of the frequent problems that typical HVCA system suffer from and identifying them is very important. As such, you should look out for weird sounds emanating from the ductwork and any unexplained increase in energy bills. However, when it comes to troubleshooting, you should contract HVAC professionals like us who are experienced in identifying system problems.

Have duct problems? Contact us today!


623-386-7804

Monday, July 9, 2018

3 AC Unit Manufacturers For Phoenix Homeowners

3 AC Unit Manufacturers For Phoenix Homeowners


Are you ready to invest in a new air conditioner installation? Are these Phoenix summers becoming too much for your old unit to handle? There are some extraordinarily efficient and surprisingly affordable AC units on the market today. You might want to consider the following three top brands when choosing a new air conditioner for your home.

Coleman Units


Coleman succeeds where other manufacturers fail because they aren't afraid to release products at a variety of price points. They don't limit themselves to only manufacturing high-end or high-efficiency machines, though they certainly offer them as well. Whatever your budget is, you can likely afford to invest in a new Coleman AC unit.

new coleman split unit ac installationOf course, living in Phoenix, you want an AC unit with some level of efficiency. You'll be running that AC a lot, and if it has a low-efficiency rating, then it's going to cost a lot of extra money in the long run. Most Coleman models have a SEER rating of 16.4. That's higher than most older model AC units. That makes it an efficient upgrade if you're interested in replacing an outdated unit.

There are also the high-end Coleman models that increase the SEER rating while decreasing the noise output. The Echelon product line from Coleman has a SEER rating of around 20. That's very energy efficient according to any standards.

Coleman models tend to find the middle ground between efficiency and affordability. Some models are cheaper, and some models are more efficient. However, there aren't any units that can claim to be both. Coleman AC units are generally more efficient than any other models in the same price range.

This combination of low-cost and decent efficiency makes for a significant long-term investment. You won't spend too much on the initial investment, and you'll save money on your energy bill each month. It's a win-win situation.

There are a few more reasons why a Coleman would be considered a good investment. First, their models are known to be extremely durable. Most models come with extra features designed to protect the inside components of the unit. Less money will be spent on maintenance and repairs over time.

Finally, they are well-known for their high level of customer service. It's straightforward to contact Coleman customer support at any time and get the help you need. Their products also come with warranties that last for a decade. Overall, they are a significant investment if you aren't interested in the cheapest or the most expensive AC units on the market.

Amana Units


What if you are interested in a more efficient AC unit even if it means paying more up front? After all, it gets very hot in Phoenix. The more efficient your air conditioner, the less money you will waste trying to survive the summer. If efficiency and quality are your primary concerns, then the Amana brand is exactly what you need.

The average Amana unit has a SEER rating of around 17.7. There's only one other brand on the market that has a higher average SEER rating. However, some of their most efficient models feature a SEER rating of 24.5. Considering that the government requires an AC unit to have a SEER rating of at least 13, Amana has gone far above and beyond their legal requirements.

You may already be familiar with the R-22 phase-out. Over the next few years, AC units that rely on traditional R-22 Freon as a refrigerant can no longer be sold. The government wants to eliminate Freon entirely due to its destructive force on the ozone layer. Amana is already well ahead of the curve and only manufacturers air conditioners that utilize alternative refrigerants, such as the highly-efficient R-410A.

The only complaint about Amana units is that they aren't the quietest models on the market. They are quieter than the average AC unit by about 1 decibel but considering that these are generally more expensive than those models you would expect them to be even quieter.

Similar to Coleman, Amana is a company that stands behind their products. All of their air conditioners that have a SEER rating of 16 or higher come with a lifetime replacement warranty. All parts of the unit are also covered by a 10-year warranty.

Lennox Units


Lennox has become synonymous with high-efficiency air conditioners. Their units have SEER ratings that range anywhere from 13 to 26. 13 SEER is the minimum required by current regulations, and 26 is one of the highest SEER ratings of any AC unit on the market today. Their average SEER rating is higher than Amana at 17.9.

One reason that Lennox isn't the most popular brand out there is that they come with an expensive price tag. The cost of installing a Lennox is higher than just about any other brand available. But if you look at it from the perspective of a long-term investment, then it may be worth every penny.

That extra cost often comes with some pretty cool additional features as well. Most of their models include advanced thermostats with touchscreens and Wi-Fi connectivity. You can control the thermostat remotely using your smartphone. This makes it easier to regulate the temperature when you're gone without running the AC for the entire time, thus potentially saving even more money in the long run.

Remember how Amana units were more expensive, but not much quieter? With Lennox, you get exactly what you would expect. Their more expensive units produce 13 fewer decibels of sound than the average AC unit. Albeit, their cheaper and less efficient models tend to produce more sound.

best phoenix ac units installed side-by-side

Making The Best AC Choice


There are several brands to choose when upgrading to a new air conditioner. If you're interested in the most expensive and efficient models on the market, then Lennox is the right choice. The extra money spent on the installation can be earned back in energy savings over the following years. If you're more interested in a budget-friendly unit, then Coleman manufacturers some affordable and decently efficient model. Finally, if you want something in between, then consider investing in an Amana unit.

When it comes time for you to install a new AC then be sure to call Icon Mechanical to get you up and running fast.  We get it right the first time.  Don't hesitate to contact us to answer all of your HVAC questions.

Don’t be stuck in the heat. Contact us today!


623-386-7804

Sunday, July 8, 2018

6 Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty

6 Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty


The compressor is the core of your AC unit. If it develops issues or breaks down, you will start experiencing some problems with your home’s cooling. You might have to spend a lot of money to get it fixed, and in some cases, you might end up replacing the entire unit.

If you hear loud noises or normal cabin temperature coming from your AC compressor, it’s time to get it inspected by an air conditioner repair tech. When noticing something strange, be sure to call for professional help as soon as possible.
New installed AC compressor for a Phoenix home

How AC Systems Work


Before we look at common compressor issues, it’s important to understand what the compressor does. The purpose of the compressor is to condense the refrigerant such that it’s circulated to the evaporator coils found inside the indoor unit of your home’s AC system. The coolant is then passed on to the evaporator coils, making them very cold. The fan located in the indoor unit blows warm air from the indoors over the coils and cools the air. This newly cooled air is then circulated into your home, while the warmed refrigerant is taken to the outdoor condensing unit, and the heat is expelled into the outside air.

The compressor, evaporator, expansion valve, and condenser are the main components of a typical AC unit. When the air conditioner starts showing some problems, it’s most likely because of a faulty condenser or compressor. In case you notice any of the following signs, it’s best to look for a local air conditioning service for a proper, timely repair.

Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty


1. The Compressor Unit Shakes and Produces a Ticking Noise When Starting


One of the significant signs of trouble is a noisy air conditioning system. In case the sound is coming from the compressor, it may indicate that it’s on its way towards breaking down.

Before the compressor fails, it will often make a chattering or a ticking noise whenever the unit is started. This shows that the compressor is finding it hard to start. If the predicament is left ignored, it might eventually damage some expensive components in your unit, and you might have to replace the compressor entirely.

It’s generally easy to fix a faulty compressor if the noise is identified and reported to a professional early enough. In most cases, the sound is caused by a faulty relay switch, and replacing the broken or worn-out switch should solve the problem and save the compressor.

2. The System Trips the Circuit Breaker Repeatedly


If the outside unit of your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker and often loses power, it could be a sign the compressor has failed. This might be because the compressor is overheating and drawing a lot of energy.

If this happens, don’t reset the circuit breaker or turn on the system repeatedly. This will not handle the issue. Keep in mind that the circuit breaker trips the power to prevent a latent fire hazard. It’s advisable that you call an HVAC professional to perform a detailed inspection on the compressor and your unit’s electrical circuit.

3. The Compressor Doesn’t Turn On


If your home is getting too hot, and your AC unit doesn’t seem to work, inspect the indoor unit of your AC. Is the fan working properly? What about the condensing unit, is it running at all? If the condensing unit is not running, turn down the thermostat to run the compressor. If the compressor doesn’t turn on, it could mean that your compressor has failed already.

Never attempt to fix the problem by yourself, especially if you don’t have a single clue what you’re doing. Get some assistance from a professional AC repair service to diagnose and fix the problem appropriately.

4. Your AC Unit Blows Warm Air


One key indicator that your compressor is failing is when your system blows warm air instead of cold air, even if the condenser seems to be running well. This is evidence that the compressor has lost its cooling power, and therefore unable to pump the refrigerant through the system.

Nonetheless, the AC system might lose its power to cool when there’s a refrigerant leak. If this is the issue, then turn off the system completely and seek professional HVAC assistance immediately. Since the problem could be a result of many different reasons, don’t ignore it, as you might end up with a broken compressor.

5. There’s Moisture Around your AC System


Moisture on or around your HVAC unit could be caused by a leakage in the system. For example, puddles are often caused by an escaping refrigerant. If the refrigerant leaks and the system continues to run without it, the compressor might break down soon.

6. Strange Noises Coming from the Compressor


If the compressor makes a loud rattling or rumbling noise, be sure to turn the system off completely. It could be a sign of the following:
  • A loose distributor motor inside the compressor

  • A component inside the compressor is thrashing around.


In case the compressor motor has become loose, an HVAC professional can help you resolve the issue to prevent further damage to your unit.

It’s best to have an HVAC maintenance service technician inspect your AC unit regularly to prevent issues from happening in the first place. The AC system is a costly appliance, and you need to take good care of it if you want it to reach its lifespan, and to reduce the need for pricey repairs. Have your system inspected and serviced regularly, even if your unit seems to be working all right. Regular maintenance will not only boost its efficiency but also save you money in the long run.

Most repairs on the AC compressors are generally straightforward, but many homeowners avoid calling HVAC services for fear of incurring a hefty bill. If your AC unit is new, repairs might still be covered under a manufacturer’s warranty. However, if it’s not, it’s always best to fix problems early to keep it from growing into a more significant problem.

Have one of our techs service your AC. Contact us today!


623-386-7804

6 Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty

6 Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty


The compressor is the core of your AC unit. If it develops issues or breaks down, you will start experiencing some problems with your home’s cooling. You might have to spend a lot of money to get it fixed, and in some cases, you might end up replacing the entire unit.

If you hear loud noises or normal cabin temperature coming from your AC compressor, it’s time to get it inspected by an air conditioner repair tech. When noticing something strange, be sure to call for professional help as soon as possible.
New installed AC compressor for a Phoenix home

How AC Systems Work


Before we look at common compressor issues, it’s important to understand what the compressor does. The purpose of the compressor is to condense the refrigerant such that it’s circulated to the evaporator coils found inside the indoor unit of your home’s AC system. The coolant is then passed on to the evaporator coils, making them very cold. The fan located in the indoor unit blows warm air from the indoors over the coils and cools the air. This newly cooled air is then circulated into your home, while the warmed refrigerant is taken to the outdoor condensing unit, and the heat is expelled into the outside air.

The compressor, evaporator, expansion valve, and condenser are the main components of a typical AC unit. When the air conditioner starts showing some problems, it’s most likely because of a faulty condenser or compressor. In case you notice any of the following signs, it’s best to look for a local air conditioning service for a proper, timely repair.

Signs That Your AC Compressor is Faulty


1. The Compressor Unit Shakes and Produces a Ticking Noise When Starting


One of the significant signs of trouble is a noisy air conditioning system. In case the sound is coming from the compressor, it may indicate that it’s on its way towards breaking down.

Before the compressor fails, it will often make a chattering or a ticking noise whenever the unit is started. This shows that the compressor is finding it hard to start. If the predicament is left ignored, it might eventually damage some expensive components in your unit, and you might have to replace the compressor entirely.

It’s generally easy to fix a faulty compressor if the noise is identified and reported to a professional early enough. In most cases, the sound is caused by a faulty relay switch, and replacing the broken or worn-out switch should solve the problem and save the compressor.

2. The System Trips the Circuit Breaker Repeatedly


If the outside unit of your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker and often loses power, it could be a sign the compressor has failed. This might be because the compressor is overheating and drawing a lot of energy.

If this happens, don’t reset the circuit breaker or turn on the system repeatedly. This will not handle the issue. Keep in mind that the circuit breaker trips the power to prevent a latent fire hazard. It’s advisable that you call an HVAC professional to perform a detailed inspection on the compressor and your unit’s electrical circuit.

3. The Compressor Doesn’t Turn On


If your home is getting too hot, and your AC unit doesn’t seem to work, inspect the indoor unit of your AC. Is the fan working properly? What about the condensing unit, is it running at all? If the condensing unit is not running, turn down the thermostat to run the compressor. If the compressor doesn’t turn on, it could mean that your compressor has failed already.

Never attempt to fix the problem by yourself, especially if you don’t have a single clue what you’re doing. Get some assistance from a professional AC repair service to diagnose and fix the problem appropriately.

4. Your AC Unit Blows Warm Air


One key indicator that your compressor is failing is when your system blows warm air instead of cold air, even if the condenser seems to be running well. This is evidence that the compressor has lost its cooling power, and therefore unable to pump the refrigerant through the system.

Nonetheless, the AC system might lose its power to cool when there’s a refrigerant leak. If this is the issue, then turn off the system completely and seek professional HVAC assistance immediately. Since the problem could be a result of many different reasons, don’t ignore it, as you might end up with a broken compressor.

5. There’s Moisture Around your AC System


Moisture on or around your HVAC unit could be caused by a leakage in the system. For example, puddles are often caused by an escaping refrigerant. If the refrigerant leaks and the system continues to run without it, the compressor might break down soon.

6. Strange Noises Coming from the Compressor


If the compressor makes a loud rattling or rumbling noise, be sure to turn the system off completely. It could be a sign of the following:
  • A loose distributor motor inside the compressor

  • A component inside the compressor is thrashing around.


In case the compressor motor has become loose, an HVAC professional can help you resolve the issue to prevent further damage to your unit.

It’s best to have an HVAC maintenance service technician inspect your AC unit regularly to prevent issues from happening in the first place. The AC system is a costly appliance, and you need to take good care of it if you want it to reach its lifespan, and to reduce the need for pricey repairs. Have your system inspected and serviced regularly, even if your unit seems to be working all right. Regular maintenance will not only boost its efficiency but also save you money in the long run.

Most repairs on the AC compressors are generally straightforward, but many homeowners avoid calling HVAC services for fear of incurring a hefty bill. If your AC unit is new, repairs might still be covered under a manufacturer’s warranty. However, if it’s not, it’s always best to fix problems early to keep it from growing into a more significant problem.

Have one of our techs service your AC. Contact us today!


623-386-7804

Monday, July 2, 2018

Air Conditioner Making Grinding or Clicking Noises?

Why Is My Air Conditioner Making Grinding and Clicking Noises?


As any homeowner will appreciate, there is nothing more important with regards to the operations of an HVAC system than have it functioning perfectly well and, therefore, efficiently. For starters, an efficient AC system performs its function as it was designed to and within the limits of its various components. This means that the system will last long, serving homeowner for longer. Importantly though, an efficiently running HVAC system uses only the energy needed to run it. It does not waste energy, which goes a long way in negating wastage of money by overpowering the system due to loss of conditioned air.

However, just as it is with any other kind appliance, you can expect your system to experience breakdowns and failures. These failures should be rectified at the earliest opportunity to ensure that you enjoy the above benefits of an efficiently operating system.  To this end, you should use the various noises emanating from the system to gain an understanding of what is going wrong in the system and get your air conditioner repaired promptly.

Let’s explore the various sounds that your air conditioner may make and what it each noise may mean.

Clicking Noises


It is typical for any HVAC system to produce soft clicking sounds that coincide with the system turning on and turning off. Additionally, the noise may be generated by the heating unit turning on and off. Such clicking noises are logical and essentially indicate that your system is working correctly.

However, when you hear illogical clicking sounds, such as when repeated clicking sounds when your HVAC system is running or random and repeated clicking sounds when the system is turned off, it may indicate that the electrical units controlling the system may be faulty. Do not such faults are better rectified by trained and experienced professionals.

Hissing/ Wheezing/ Whistling Noises


A typical ductwork system comprises of sheet metal ducts, pipes, dampers, and even sealants. All the elements that comprise the system are susceptible to becoming loose, thereby providing the airflow a means of escaping from the ductwork. Therefore, when you hear a hissing sound emanating from the wall near the HVAC ductwork, there is a high probability that the ducts are leaking air.  This means that you are losing conditioned air into the wall, thereby wasting money. You also overwork your system to compensate for the lost air.

Another source of the kinds of sound is the air filter. If you have replaced your air filter recently with a new one and you start to hear a hissing air whizzing sound, chances are your air filter does not fit well in the filter system. As such, it lets some air escape above and over the screen without going through the filter.

Rattling Sound


This sound could mean a few things have occurred. When it happens in the ductwork system, it is an indication that a loose pipe is hitting other ductwork components, thus creating the rattling sound. However, other sources of internal rattling sounds may come from the furnace system.

On the other hand, if the rattling sound emanates from the outside components, you might want to check the exterior parts. While these components are shielded from the elements and debris, they are still susceptible to small-size debris interference. When small twigs and leaves embed themselves in the system, they may affect how the fan, the compressor, and the condenser coils are working, therefore producing the rattling sound.


Clanking/Knocking Sounds


Clanking sounds is always a red flag. No clanking sound can be attributed to the smooth running of an HVAC system. In most cases, clanking sound emanates from damaged and or loose parts and components hitting and rubbing against other components during operations.

While this kind of sound is not as common as sounds, it presents the biggest danger to eh entire HVCA system. Owing to the seriousness of this sound, whenever it occurs, your number one priority should be to switch the system off and call in professionals to troubleshoot the system and get to the bottom of the problems.

Thwap Sounds


This kind of noise in quick successions when the HVCA system is running. It also has regular pace. It is an indication of some debris being trapped in the blower fan on the blade or the housing.

Other HVCA sounds that should make you concerned include squeaks during shutdown or even during startup, thumps sounds in the ductwork, bubbling and glugging sounds, and excessive popping and cracking sounds.

Phoenix Roof top HVAC unit after fixing noises

Avoid Weird HVAC Breakdowns And Associated Weird Sounds Through Regular System Maintenance


With this discussion, you might already know that when weird sounds are coming from your HVAC system, it is already broken and needs repairs. There is no question about the necessity of emergency AC repairs when a system is producing certain sounds. However, they can be quite expensive and an inconvenience that you can do without.

To this end, you should consider having scheduled maintenance. Scheduled maintenance is vital due to:
  • Reduced emergency repairs

  • Increase HVAC efficiency

  • Improved system longevity

  • Improved and assured safety, and much more.

  • However, the most critical benefit of scheduled maintenance is it saves you money in the long run.


While having a robust regular maintenance schedule in place will do wonders for your HVAC’s efficient is essential for the reasons mentioned above, equally important is to contract high-quality HVAC specialists. For the sake of your HVAC and to get the highest bang for your buck, you need only recruit certified AC repair tech, like us. Our team members are specially trained, experienced, and well-equipped to handle any of the problems that produce weird sounds in your HVAC system. Importantly we focus on rendering high-quality AC repair services with a focus on high-quality workmanship.

Icon Mechanical will get to the root of the problem and solve it. Alternatively, we offer high-quality scheduled maintenance services that are aimed at improving the efficiency and life of your HVAC system.

Is your AC making weird noises. Contact Icon Mechanical today!


623-386-7804

Sunday, July 1, 2018

Effective Ways To Save Money On Air Conditioning Repair

If you are living in the extreme climate then you must be aware about the fact that how painful will be if the heating and cooling unit breaks down when you badly needed it. More or less each and every residential or commercial place installs this unit in order to stay cool from the soaring temperature and humidity during summer days. It is one of the most suitable and effective way to maintain the desired temperature for the keeping healthy and hearty atmosphere at home or in working place. Since the entire mechanical unit is liable to be breakdown once in a year, therefore, it is always a wise decision to keep it checked and maintained before it starts creating a problem. 


Generally, it has been seen that lots of people start fixing the problems on their own without having enough experience and knowledge of the mechanism that results into more complications. Therefore, it is always better to leave this work for the trained professionals who have all the knowledge and experience behind of heating and air conditioning repair Orlando. Here are some common problems and their solution discussed in this article which will be solved immediately before any further delay.

Most of the problems start with the HVAC Installation and usually, people ignore the fundamental rules of installation. In order to overcome this problem make sure to read owner's manual where you will find all the important steps and rules for the installing the unit. Once you spend some of your precious time for setting up this mechanical equipment, it means half of your chances of causing air conditioning problem are reduced. But being a machine it needs maintenance as all the mechanical equipment does, therefore it is bound to have some problems. Here are some common problems which need to be addressed for the purpose of keeping air conditioning unit efficient.

One of an appropriate way to keep your unit effective is cleaning. There are lots of mechanical equipment like fins and compressor which needs to be cleaned properly in order to work at top efficiency. The regular and periodic cleaning helps in reducing the causes of problems. It is not maintained and cleaned properly then you must expect some of the problems like air conditioning unit will not effective to provide cooling despite being on full blast. 


Another thing which needs proper cleaning and attention is the air filter. Depending upon the condition of the filter it should be cleaned or changed once in a month or two. Furthermore, due to the improper HVAC installation, there is always a higher chance of coolant leakage. The coolant or Freon should be checked and topped up regularly according to the manufactures recommendation. It should match the number which is given in the owner's manual. So, these things should be maintained in order to keep your heating and cooling system efficiency.

Thus, to enable customers experience and most satisfying service for ac repair Orlando maintenance and repair companies have a wide variety of products and services available in the city. If you want some tips and trick to save money on air condition repair then visit here.

Contact Us

Icon Mechanical Inc
3763 S. Bullard Ave, Suite 115
Goodyear,AZ,85338
Telephone- 623-386-7804
Email- julie@iconmechanicalinc.com

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