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3 Most Common HVAC Problems in the Summer

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As the temperatures continue to get hotter and hotter throughout the Texas summer, your AC will be put to the test. The strain put on AC’s during the summer is why the season is the busiest for HVAC technicians. Here are some of the most common HVAC problems that you may encounter with your AC over the next few months.

Doesn’t Turn On / Unscheduled Shutdown

Imagine arriving at your residence on a sweltering summer day. You’re relieved to get to your cool home but when you arrive, the AC is not running. You attempt to turn it on, but it either doesn’t come on at all or runs for the beginning of the cooling cycle and then quits. This is one of the most frustrating problems imaginable.

Unfortunately, these issues tend to require an expert to be fixed. One thing you can try is resetting the breaker box and testing out the AC again. If that doesn’t work, it’s likely a faulty thermostat, which the experts at Ideal Partners can repair or replace in no time.

AC Freezing Up

We’ve probably all seen in-person or online a strange picture of an AC unit covered in ice on a sunny day. Well, those aren’t photoshopped photos. They’re actually the result of poor thermostat settings, dirty air filters, vent blockages, and various mechanical issues with the drain lines and refrigerant.
If your AC is freezing up, try replacing your air filters and ensuring that your thermostat isn’t set too cold on a cool summer night. If the problem persists, it won’t get better on its own, so call the professional at Ideal Partners.

Strange Noises

With all the moving parts in modern AC units, there are bound to be some noises, but if your AC is making more noise than usual, or the sounds coming from it are peculiar, there is likely something wrong that is making the noise.

Squealing noises can often come from loosely mounted and poorly lubricated fan blades. Shaking and rattling noises can be due to a poorly fitted AC belt or the AC being mounted loosely to the ground. That’s not to mention buzzing that could indicate electrical issues.

If something sounds weird, then something probably is weird. The heat in Texas is no joke, and being stranded without AC for even a few days can be a major health risk. If your AC is struggling to keep up with the Texas summer, call Ideal Partners today for a free estimate on your AC repair or replacement.

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Before You DIY, Dial Ideal

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Ideal Partners applauds the roll-up-your-sleeves, do-it-yourself types, but there are some real dangers to attempting DIY HVAC repairs. Here are some of the dangers of HVAC repairs and some situations where you’re going to want to call the professionals at Ideal Partners.

Voided Warranties

For starters, read the fine print on any of the HVAC appliances in your home. Most of them have a clause that states that any attempt at DIY repairs will automatically void the warranty on the appliance. Even if you can fix the appliance, the repairs may eventually fail and then what? Once the manufacturer catches wind of your DIY repair, you could be paying for all that damage out of your pocket. If you are wondering whether the project you have in mind will void your HVAC warranties, you should give the pros at Ideal Partners a call.

Personal Safety

There are also many chemicals at play when dealing with HVAC equipment, and they can cause irreparable damage to your personal health. Carbon monoxide and natural gas exposure is a real concern in HVAC repair that only professionals will be equipped to oversee. There is also a flame risk, especially when dealing with heating appliances (i.e. a furnace).

HVAC Damage

Last, but definitely not least, you can end up making the problem worse if you don’t know what you’re doing. Let’s say you believe that you fix a tear in your ductwork, but, that tear opens a week after your patchwork was applied. That can lead to contaminants like insulation and dust entering your home’s AC vents. It can also cause those contaminants to enter your AC unit and cause more damage to the unit over time. Saving money in the short term can end up costing you much more in the long run.

Here’s Something You CAN Do

That’s not to say we don’t think DIYers can save a buck here or there by doing it themselves. One of the easiest maintenance tasks a homeowner can do is to regularly check and replace air filters. This will prolong the life of the AC unit and it’s typically easy to do. Follow the instructions on each filter to know how long they should last before needing replacement. You can also spend a little time making sure that your thermostat is properly programmed for optimal efficiency.

So think twice before crawling up into your attic to attempt a repair on something you suspect is broken. Give the experts at Ideal Partners a call first. Use the form on our website to receive a free estimate.

A man wrapped in a warm beige blanket drinking coffee

HVAC Struggling to Keep Up with the Cold?

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It seems like the North Texas winters keep getting colder and colder every year. Many residents are facing a common problem: their HVAC systems simply can’t keep up with the cold weather to keep their homes warm. We’ve listed some of the most common reasons a heating system can be inadequate and what can be done to fix that.

Older Systems

Older systems can come with an entire host of problems. Old systems that rely on a mechanical thermostat rely on a spring that expands and contracts depending on the temperature, which sends signals to your heating unit. These springs are more prone to fail than a modern digital thermostat.

Another issue with aged systems is that they may not be big enough. As homes age, they tend to be less efficient. More drafts from leaky windows, doors, and heat loss from insufficient insulation could all be placing more stress on your heating system than it was originally designed for.

Dirty Air Filters

Maintenance is a key component to keeping your HVAC system running at its best. Replacing dirty air filters is a vital piece of maintenance because your HVAC system is only as good as its vents. If the vents are clogged, none of the warm air generated by your HVAC system will make it into the house and this will instead place heavy stress on your system.

Another possibility related to blockages is that your air ducts need to be cleared. Over time, dust and debris can build up in your air ducts. If you can hear your system running but cannot feel air coming out of the vents despite a clean filter, call a professional to come inspect your air ducts and clear any blockages.

Leaks and Drafts

This one is related to having an older HVAC system installed. The older the home itself, the more heat loss is typically felt by the residents. Older homes tend to be less insulated, have drafts around doorways and windows, and other general gaps in the home. Getting your home reinsulated or having an AC professional come and inspect your home for drafts that can be sealed could be the key to staying warm. It’s also a great way to increase your home’s efficiency and keep your electric bill low through the winter.

If your HVAC unit is having trouble keeping up with the cold this year, call Ideal Partners for a free estimate to either replace your current unit, or have it inspected to find the source of your problem.

Someone pulling out a air filter

Bitter Cold Temps Coming Soon. Make Sure Your House is Ready and Warm for the Holidays

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Bitter cold temperatures are forecast for Ft Worth and surrounding areas in upcoming days. Keeping warm is one of the most important aspects of the cozy holiday atmosphere. Here are some tips from Ideal Partners to help you make sure your home is comfortable and welcoming for the holiday season.

Tip 1: Make sure to change out the furnace filter. If your furnace filter is dirty, it can severely hamper the efficiency of your heating unit. If your home is cold, it could be that you have a perfectly fine furnace unit, but it is just not able to get that heat to your vents due to this blockage. Here are some instructions to change the filter yourself, or you can give Ideal Partners a call to change it out and make sure your furnace is in working order this winter.

Tip 2: Reverse your ceiling fans. The Energy Star program recommends utilizing the reverse setting on your ceiling fans at a low speed to draw heat that has risen to the ceiling down into the living space below. By keeping the heat from dissipating so quickly into the ceiling and walls, your home will stay warmer and be more energy efficient.

Tip 3: Seal up animal doors and mail slots. Sealing up places that are designed to be accessible from the outside will help prevent small drafts from coming into your home. Using a blanket or a cover designed for the purpose, simply cover up the entry points to prevent cold air from leaking into your home.

Tip 4: Call professionals to inspect your heating system. There’s no replacement for the expertise of an HVAC professional. If you’re worried about your heating system being ready to handle the cold north Texas winter, call Ideal Partners for a free estimate for repairs or a new unit. Ideal Partners can also inspect your current system to see what improvements can be made.

Man sticking his head in a freezer

How to Avoid Overheating

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Summer 2022 has been filled with 100-degree days in North Texas which means we are all feeling the heat. Keeping cool during the summer months is vital to ensuring that you don’t overheat or dehydrate. Here is a quick rundown of what overheating is and what you can do to stay cool.

Heating up

 Overheating is a common problem, especially throughout the South where temperatures can reach well into the 100s. Excessive exposure to these high temperatures can lead to different kinds of heat-related illnesses. Some, like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, are serious and can have long-lasting impacts on people.

Keeping cool

One of the most important things to do when it is hot outside is to hydrate, especially if you are going to be outside for an extended time or while doing strenuous activities. Another thing to remember is that drinks high in sodium or sugar aren’t going to be as effective as water in helping you stay hydrated.

Another effective way to stay cool is to avoid the heat. Experts recommend staying inside as much as you can from the peak hours of 10 am-2 pm. It is also important to make sure that your air conditioner is running as effectively as it can. This means check your air filters, overflow pans, and other AC components or you can have it serviced 24/7 by Ideal Partners if it goes out.

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out on your neighbors. The CDC warns that people older than 65 and young children are at a higher risk of heat-related illness. Keeping children out of hot places like parked cars and keeping an eye on older relatives and neighbors is a great way to help keep them safe.

If your system is not keeping your home as cool as it should, give Ideal Partners a call and we can make sure your AC is running cool or recommend repairs to get it running right. Another option is Ideal’s semi-annual Planned Maintenance Program which is designed to spot problems with your HVAC system before they lead to costly, inconvenient breakdowns. You’ll save money and your system will run better and last longer. 

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Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

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With summer in full swing, you need to be able to count on your AC to cool your home. Unfortunately, some AC systems freeze up in crunch time which can result in a hot home, potential water leaks, and other issues. Here are some reasons why AC systems freeze up and what you can do to prevent it from happening to you.

Dirty air filters

Air filters quickly fill up with dust and pollen during the sweltering summer months and this restricts the airflow and causes the system to freeze up. This one has an easy fix: pull out your dirty filters and replace them with new clean filters. Experts recommend replacing your filters at least once a month during the peak season of May-September.

Cool summer nights

AC units are rated to work in certain temperature ranges. If the temperature at night dips too low, it can actually cause the AC to freeze up. An easy way to prevent this from happening is to set your thermostat to its “auto” setting so that it turns off if the temperature inside your home is lower than the set temperature. If you do not have a programmable thermostat, give us a call at Ideal Partners and we can install one for you.

Vent blockages

Vent blockages can also restrict the airflow in your AC unit, causing condensation to form, which can turn into ice sheets in the unit. Make sure not to close too many of the supply vents and ensure no furniture is blocking your return or supply vents.

Refrigerant leaks, mechanical issues, drain lines

There is a wide array of other issues that can cause an AC to freeze up, including leaks, mechanical issues within the unit, drain line stoppages, and air duct issues. These problems can be very technical and difficult to diagnose and repair on your own, so it is typically best to call a professional if you have a challenge that is outside of your skill set.

If the troubleshooting tips we listed don’t help you solve your AC system’s problems, give Ideal Partners a call for same-day repairs and 24/7 emergency HVAC support.

a hand cleaning the inside of a air conditioning unit with a hose

Clean Your AC

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As we pull out of the cold weather funk and the warmth of spring is upon us, it’s time for spring cleaning. So, pull out your cleaning supplies and crank up the lawnmower. And don’t forget about your air conditioner. After a long, hard winter it needs some cleaning as well. Here are a few tips on how to get your AC ready for a long hot summer.

Change Your Filters

Thank goodness for air filters! They catch a lot of dust, hair, and debris that get sucked into your air. After a while, that debris can start to build up and cause numerous issues for both your unit as well as your health. The U.S. Department of Energy states that dirty filters can cause a lack of airflow and can affect how well your system works. In addition, that doesn’t stop all the dust and dirt from being stirred up and being put back in your air. Be sure to change your filter at least every 2 months. And if that’s not enough, ask your Ideal Partners rep about the Active Air Purifier system to avoid polluted air in your home. 

Clean Your House

While you have filters in your vents, there is only so much it can catch before it starts to build up. Dust and debris can build up around baseboards and in the vent. So, even though the filter is working on the air that’s brought in, you are still breathing it in when it gets pushed out. Be sure to dust and clean any baseboards, vents shelves, fans, etc. to prevent you from breathing any of that in. If you don’t have the time to do this yourself, check out Ideal Partners Maintenance program.

Remove Any Dust and Debris from the External Unit

Your outside units brave the wrath of mother nature. Make sure to clear any leaves, droppings, twigs, etc. from the vents of your outside unit. Anything like this can get stuck and cause damage to your system.

Have Your AC Inspected and Repaired

Your AC unit has braved through the brunt of the winter and now it is time to crank up the air and get your unit running. Be sure to get your unit inspected and repair any damage that is found. Call Ideal Partners and one of our certified technicians will come out to inspect your unit and fix any issue that you may have. Read and learn more about our Maintenance program and see if that is the right fit for you.

So, remember to add your AC unit to your spring-cleaning list. Get your AC ready for the heat and call Ideal Partners for all your HVAC maintenance needs.

 

 

 

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The Dust Free Difference

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How to Avoid Polluted Air in Your Home

The air you breathe in your home can change daily. Since we’re in the middle of the cold and flu (and Covid) season, every occupant of your home will be exposed to bad air at some point. The Dust Free Active Air Purifier is available from Ideal Partners and can be part of your clean air strategy.

A recent study by the American Lung Association confirmed that 40% of Americans are breathing polluted air. Your immune system protects you from bad pollutants which can make you sick. But viruses, bacteria, chemicals, dust, and other pollutants can overload your immune system and cause you to get sick or develop an allergic reaction.

Why A Clean Air Strategy is The Right Move for Your Home

The air in your home may contain millions of tiny particulates, most of which are so small they are impossible to see. It takes a three-step process of filtration, purification, and sterilization to truly provide totally clean air. And the Dust Free Active Air Purification system can do all three.

What Does the Dust Free System from Active Air Remove?

  • Cold and flu viruses
  • Harmful bacteria and germs
  • Dust, mold, and pollen
  • Biological growth
  • Pet allergens
  • And more

How Does It Work?

Through a process called ionic oxidation and negative ionization, the Active Air Purifier actively seeks out and removes dust, dander, VOC’s, germs, odors, and allergens in the air. Even on surfaces. The experts at Ideal Partners can install it for you in the supply plenum of your HVAC system. It’s made from the highest quality materials, weighs just three pounds, and comes with a 7-yr power supply warranty.

Learn More here or Call Ideal Partners for More Details.

It’s time to improve the performance of your existing filtration system and eliminate dust, dander, VOC’s, germs, odors, and other allergens from your indoor air. Call Ideal Partners for more information today.

Service Technician Preparing Home HVACs during HVAC Equipment Shortage

How to Prepare For a Texas Winter Storm During the HVAC Equipment Shortage

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Why Is There An HVAC Equipment Shortage & How It Could Affect You this Winter 

In Fort Worth, we know that the happiness and comfort of our families are directly related to how well our heating and cooling systems are working. What you may not know is that while we were experiencing the Great Texas Winter Storm of 2021, another storm was brewing. The HVAC Equipment Shortage of 2021, and it could impact your family this holiday season. 

The Perfect Storm = Covid + Labor + Manufacturing +Transportation 

This was truly a story of the perfect storm of unfortunate events. At the heels of the COVID pandemic, employers scaled back or shut down factories to protect employees and slow the spread of the virus. This decision, as noble as it was, was where problems took root. A large decline in the labor force of the manufacturing and transportation sectors resulted.

The Texas Winter Storm: How It Contributed to the HVAC Equipment Shortage

These labor shortages in the production of raw materials created additional shortages in HVAC component manufacturing. As the availability of copper, aluminum, and steel slowed, so did the production of motors, compressors, and ductwork. Even our Texas Winter Storm contributed to the cycle of decreased production and transportation of these raw materials.

National and Global HVAC Equipment & Supply Chain Delays

Across the pond, the global semiconductor industry production slowed. This crippled other areas of production. From the trucks that transport goods to much-needed microchips used in high-efficiency heating and air systems, the supply chain was hit from all sides. Overseas and state shipping shortages also contributed to the mix. Then, other untimely issues like the fires in California and the blockage of the Suez Canal compounded the heavy strain on transportation and the supply chain.

The Housing Boom

Finally, a decrease in interest rates and …  the housing boom arrives. This brought an increase in construction, driving the demand and consumption of already pressed HVAC parts and equipment supplies. 

Delay in HVAC Equipment Maintenance

With many of us hesitant to break the 6-foot Covid veil, we contributed to another element of this storm. We were reluctant to invite the service industry into our homes. Especially for something that was not required or “needed.” Concern is running high that homeowner maintenance (especially HVAC) may have been delayed or ignored during the past year. As we face the prospect of another cold winter, the lack of proper maintenance is predicted to make the current shortage of raw and manufactured materials even worse. 

The Current Situation 

This cycle of shortage is still dramatically impacting the global HVAC supply chain. There is a dire need for more employees on distribution lines. Trucking companies are strapped and struggling to deliver limited supplies. And so, the story of shortage continues. As our nation continues to grapple with the why’s of covid, the global supply chain, and equipment shortages, we believe that there is hope! 

There is Some Good News in 2021

The good news is that, with a little bit of planning, you do not have to be a victim of this shortage storm. We are encouraging our customers to be proactive in their preparation for this Winter Season. It’s been an unprecedented year, and we certainly don’t want it to be on repeat! The time to have your heating system serviced is now! Whether you do it yourself or hire trained professionals to do it for you. Just get it knocked off the to-do list early this winter! 

HVAC Preparation Tips for A Texas Winter Storm

With the HVAC Equipment Shortage, it is more important than ever to prepare and maintain your equipment for the winter. There are a few things you can do to keep your family safe and warm in the coming months.

Change your air filter monthly.

  • To help avoid a more significant repair involving equipment that is in short supply. It will also keep your unit running better and reduce operating expenses. 

Keep the unit clean.

  • Clean around the system’s coils and make sure the parts are free of dust or debris. Keep an eye on the system’s exterior and interior components.

Get complete maintenance on your HVAC system. 

  • This tune-up can help catch minor problems before they become catastrophic failures that require new equipment, replacements, or add-ons that might be harder to come by.

Consider a Planned Maintenance Contract with Ideal Partners.

  • The benefits of these agreements can save you money, time and extend the life of your equipment. If back-ordered parts are required, you will be in the front line when the replacement parts come in. If we have replaced your unit, we’ll be sure to check your HVAC warranty to see if any parts or repairs are covered.

So, when the mercury drops and winter arrives on your doorstep, make sure your family isn’t in the cold. Hopefully, we won’t see the Texas Arctic Storm of 2022. But just in case, PARTNER with the IDEAL Partner to protect what matters most this Winter Season, your family.

Call Ideal Partners TODAY To Schedule Your Preventative Maintenance Service Calls With One Of Our Highly Esteemed Technicians.

Request a FREE Estimate 817-222-1283

or fill out the form –>

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IM=X Studio Owner Uses The Active Air Purification System

Most of us spend a significant amount of time indoors; therefore, it is vital that the air we breathe is not contaminated with pollutants. Poor air quality can have negative health effects such as congestion, eye irritation, fatigue, headache, dizziness, as well as long-term complications. To combat pollutants and improve the comfort of indoor spaces, Ideal Mechanical offers The Dust Free Active Air Purification System.

The Dust Free® IAQ3 Active Air Purification System

The Active Purifier targets pollutants in your air and on surfaces by using ionic oxidation technology and negative ionization. Once added to your existing HVAC unit(s), you will be able to breathe the difference. The system effectively eliminates biological growth, viruses, bacterial, mold, and more! See our interview with Rebecca Slemmons, owner of IM=X, to hear her experience with using the Active Purifier in her studio.

Interview with Rebecca Slemmons, Owner & Instructor at IM=X

What Ideal Partners services does IM=X currently use?

“Currently, we use Ideal Partners for pest control, fire protection, security, and HVAC.”

How has your experience with Ideal Partners been?

“We started service with Ideal two years ago and have always had very positive experiences. The technicians are timely, professional, and flexible. Since I own a studio, the time I have available can be limited and random. We are very grateful that Ideal is always willing to work around our schedule to fulfill any service needs.”

When did you install the Dust Free Air Purification System? Why?

“Two months ago. It has been a great addition to the studio. I originally wanted to add it to our HVAC system due to COVID19. It is important that my members feel safe coming into workout. In addition to frequent cleaning, reduced capacity, and distancing, the air purifier adds an enhancement to my members’ experience and comfort while visiting the studio.”

What differences have you noticed since installing the purification system?

“You do not physically see anything different, like a large piece of equipment, or even hear anything. But just after it was installed, members began commenting on the freshness and cleanliness of the air. Many believed it to be an air freshener, but instead it was the purifier! The difference is almost immediate.”

Would you recommend the air purification to others?

“I would absolutely recommend the purification system. In fact, we will be putting it in my home, next! I imagine it would be great for pet dander and everything else in my home.”

 

Learn more about Rebecca’s studio by clicking here. For only $99, get one month unlimited when you use the code: IDEAL21.

Request a FREE Estimate 817-222-1283

or fill out the form –>

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