High temperatures bring increase in HVAC service calls

Air conditioning specialist: Maintenance key to avoiding steep repair costs

HVAC specialist Neil Gerrald, owner of Air Now Heating and Conditioning, said the key to avoiding a big repair bill is to regularly service an air conditioning unit. "There are customers out there that don’t know these units need to be maintained, and once we start seeing these temperatures increase, issues begin to pop up," he said. (Metro Newspaper Service)
HVAC specialist Neil Gerrald, owner of Air Now Heating and Conditioning, said the key to avoiding a big repair bill is to regularly service an air conditioning unit. "There are customers out there that don’t know these units need to be maintained, and once we start seeing these temperatures increase, issues begin to pop up," he said. (Metro Newspaper Service)

TEXARKANA --With recent temperatures nearing the 100s, HVAC issues are rising with the mercury.

Neil Gerrald, owner of Air Now Heating and Conditioning, said business has doubled this summer compared to last.

"Anytime the temperature gets above 90, business goes up," he said.

The major issue is repairs, most of which are maintenance related.

"That means there are customers out there that don't know these units need to be maintained, and once we start seeing these temperatures increase, issues begin to pop up," Gerrald said.

The two major problems Gerrald sees are are blown capacitors and systems that are low on refrigerant.

"Maintenance is the big deal here. If you aren't getting these units serviced at least once, if not twice a year, you'll definitely see issues during these 100-degree temperatures."

Gerrald has learned from previous summers and ensures staffing is ample during the hotter months.

Air Now is running an average of about 30 calls a day for HVAC repairs, exceeding approximately 150 calls a week at times.

The most important preventative measure that can be taken during summer is to wash outdoor condensers once or twice a week, Gerrald said.

"This keeps dirt and debris out. You can also pour vinegar or bleach down the drain system, and it will kill any sludge."

"These units right now are trying to remove a lot of humidity in the air, and that drain line is working overtime trying to keep up to not get backed up. It can do damage to your ceiling, floors, carpet or anything like that."

Other helpful tips include checking and changing the air filter, inspecting ducts and vents, refilling refrigerant levels and keeping vents unobstructed.

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