Author: Semper Fi

Experienced HVAC Technician Maintaining Commercial Air Conditioner to Ensure Safety and Compliance with Regulations

DIY Or Call a Pro? Common HVAC Repairs You Shouldn’t Do Alone

Written by Semper Fi on November 14, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning Repair, Blog, HVAC, Maintenance. No Comments on DIY Or Call a Pro? Common HVAC Repairs You Shouldn’t Do Alone

Sometimes, your air conditioning breaks in the middle of the summer, and you don’t want to wait around until someone comes to fix it. You could probably do it yourself—how hard could it be?

Stop that train of thought right there. While, yes, there are minor HVAC repairs you could safely do on your own, this doesn’t mean you should crack into your system and start fiddling around.

Certain components of your HVAC system are dangerous to meddle with unless you have the proper training and equipment. You put your safety at risk if you’re not careful.

If you want to know which repairs you can do at home and which should have you calling a professional, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will go over HVAC repairs you should leave to the professionals as well as some DIY HVAC repairs you can safely do at home. This way, you make an educated decision that keeps you and your family safe.

HVAC Repairs to Leave to the Professionals

First and foremost, let’s go over which repairs should be left to the experts. These repairs are tricky to fix, and you could make the problem worse if you try to sort it out yourself. In addition, these repairs could lead to serious safety concerns if not addressed properly.

Replacing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is what allows your AC to blow cool air throughout your home in the summer. It cools down the air so your home is comfortable. However, freon and other refrigerants such as R-32 are heavily regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These refrigerants can only be handled by a licensed HVAC technician, as they are considered hazardous materials.

If you need to replace the refrigerant in your HVAC system, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Thermostat Calibration

Calibrating your thermostat involves connecting it to your HVAC system and making sure it’s giving a proper temperature reading. Installing a thermostat improperly can throw off your entire HVAC system and cost you money in the long run.

This is especially true for smart thermostats. The electrical wiring and installation process should be handled by a trained HVAC technician to make sure the thermostat is compatible with your system and working properly.

Electrical Repairs

Any electrical work on your home can be dangerous, especially if it involves your HVAC system. Your heating and cooling require a high voltage of electricity to run properly, and you put yourself at risk if you mess with it yourself. You could experience serious injuries from electrocution and even fatal consequences.

Keep yourself and your family safe. If you’re having electrical problems with your HVAC system, let the professionals take care of it.

Replacing Parts

If a component in your HVAC system breaks, it may need to be replaced. Replacing any part of your heating and cooling system is a tricky balance of safely removing the old part and properly installing the new one. If the new part is installed incorrectly, it can lead to serious breaks and safety concerns later on. HVAC replacements should be left to the experts.

Duct Cleaning

Dust and other debris can build up in your HVAC ducts and make your system less efficient. While it seems straightforward to clean them out, it requires specific tools to effectively clean without damaging your ducts. Duct cleaning should be left to the experts who have the training and certification to do the job safely.

HVAC Repairs You Can Do Yourself

Don’t fret too much—not all HVAC work requires an appointment with a professional. There are a handful of repairs you can safely do on your own to keep your system running smoothly. Two common AC repairs you can do at home include tidying up around your unit and changing the air filters.

Tidying Up Around Your HVAC Unit

Whether you have an indoor or outdoor unit, your HVAC system needs proper airflow around it to do its job properly. You can clean up around your unit to make sure it’s free of any debris and has good airflow. Make sure there’s no clutter around your indoor unit, and if you have an outdoor one, be sure to clean up any leaves or debris that might pile up around it.

Changing Air Filters

Your HVAC system has a series of air filters to help prevent the buildup of dust and other debris in your ducts. You can help your system run smoother for longer by replacing these filters. It’s an easy repair task, and you should do it every 30 to 60 days.

Rely on The Pros at Semper Fi For Your HVAC Maintenance Needs

Doing certain AC repairs at home can save you money and hassle, but certain repairs are not worth risking your safety. If you feel hesitant about doing something yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to an HVAC professional. It’s better safe than sorry, even for minor repairs.

Are you looking for a professional HVAC company in the Phoenix or Las Vegas areas? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling offers same-day service and straightforward pricing for all of our HVAC maintenance and repair needs.

Cat looking at large pile of pet fur and dirt debris

Air Quality Tips for Homes with Pets

Written by Semper Fi on November 14, 2024. Posted in Blog, Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Air Quality Tips for Homes with Pets

Pets are a lovely addition to any home and can quickly become part of the family. You love your pets and can’t imagine life without them. However, you may wish to live without all the hair and dander throughout your home. Furry pets such as dogs, cats, and even gerbils leave hair and dander all around the house, worsening allergy symptoms.

What is dander? Our furry friends naturally shed dead skin cells, just like humans do. These dead skin cells can collect on surfaces as dander, which many people are allergic to.

Dogs and cats are the most common culprits for dander and hair, and keeping that under control can improve the air quality in your home. Better indoor air quality helps alleviate allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes and a runny nose.

If you’re looking for help controlling the fur and dander in your home, you’ve come to the right place. This discussion will cover six cleaning tips and tricks you can use to improve the overall air quality in your home.

Regular Grooming

It’s natural for your pet to shed throughout the year, especially during the spring and fall. Regular grooming reduces the amount of loose pet hair around your home, and can even reduce pet odors. The frequency of brushing your pet depends on the type of fur coat they have. Dogs and cats with longer fur such as golden retrievers and Maine Coons need more frequent brushing to minimize shedding and prevent knots and mats in the fur.

If you own a dog, regular baths can also reduce allergens. Depending on the type of fur your dog has, we recommend bathing them around once a month to reduce allergens and prevent skin issues for your pet. Cats do not need to be bathed as they take care of that themselves, so don’t worry about throwing Whiskers in the bathtub.

If your dog is starting to get smelly in between baths, you can use specialized pet wipes to clean your dog without having to hoist them into the washtub. These wipes reduce dander and leave your pet smelling fresh and clean.

Use an Air Purifier

An air purifier is a great tool for improving your indoor air quality (IAQ). They come in a variety of sizes for different spaces, so you can find the right one for your home. Look for an air purifier with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. These filters are made of a fine mesh that is designed to catch air particles such as dander, dust, and other contaminants.

Air purifiers provide your home with cleaner air and fewer allergy symptoms. They are relatively quiet, and you can set them up in an area of your home with the most dander, such as near the dog bed or cat tree.

Wash Pet Bedding

Your pet spends a lot of time curled up on their bed or cat tree, and you’ve probably noticed a ton of fur building up in these places. Regularly washing your pet’s beds, blankets, and toys reduces the amount of allergens in your home. This in turn reduces allergy and respiratory symptoms, making the house more comfortable for everyone.

When you clean these items, clean off any hair buildup before throwing it into the washing machine. Excess hair can build up in your machine and cause a clog, so spot-clean any noticeable mess beforehand. Use hot water and a detergent that is formulated specifically for pets. This way, the blankets and toys are effectively cleaned of allergens while still being gentle for your pet’s skin.

Routine HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC system consists of your furnace, air conditioner, and a series of ducts that circulate the air throughout your home. Over time, dust and debris can build up and reduce the efficiency of your system.

Routine maintenance and repairs help keep your HVAC system running smoothly without any issues. Minor issues get caught early on, and your system will last a lot longer. These inspections can also check the cleanliness of your system. A professional HVAC cleaning reduces allergens such as dander while keeping your system working like a charm.

Your HVAC technician can also add in an extra filtration system so your HVAC catches more allergens before circulating the air throughout your home. This improves air quality and reduces allergy symptoms.

General Cleanliness

Regular house cleaning reduces overall allergens in your home and improves your air quality. Something as simple as dusting or sweeping cleans up pet dander and prevents itchy eyes. If you have carpets, deep clean them on occasion. Dander and fur like to burrow into the carpet over time, and vacuuming may not be enough.

HVAC Repairs You Can Do Yourself

There are a handful of HVAC repairs you can safely do yourself to improve the efficiency of your system and improve air quality. Change the air filters in your system every 30 to 60 days to reduce allergens in your home. You can also tidy up around your furnace or air conditioning unit so there is proper ventilation and airflow.

Explore Semper Fi’s Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Having a pet shouldn’t leave you sniffling and wheezing from allergens. Regular cleaning and professional HVAC services can reduce pet allergens in your home and improve air quality. Play with your furry companions with the peace of mind that your home is clean and allergen-free.

Looking for indoor air quality services in the Phoenix or Las Vegas areas? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling offers custom IAQ services that will keep your home fresh and clean all year round. Our team of certified and insured HVAC technicians understands the importance of high air quality, and we’ll work with you to find the best air quality solutions for your family.

Family suffering from cold in bed at home

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Allergy Season

Written by Semper Fi on November 13, 2024. Posted in Blog, Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Allergy Season

Allergy season means more pollen and other allergens in your home. No one enjoys sniffling and sneezing for months out of the year, especially in their own home. While many allergens are present outside in nature, your home is less allergen-free than you think. Allergens regularly pop up throughout your home, impacting your indoor air quality.

What is indoor air quality?

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the amount of pollutants, such as dust, in the air. Whether it be in your home, office, or your kid’s school, breathing in these irritants causes allergy symptoms. While common symptoms tend to be mild itchiness or sniffling, over time these irritants affect your health.

If you want to stop sneezing during allergy season, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll go over common allergy symptoms, common allergens in your home, and what you can do to reduce the amount of allergens in your household.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms range from mild irritation in the eyes and throat to serious swelling that can be quite uncomfortable. These symptoms are worse for people with lung conditions such as asthma, as allergens can agitate the symptoms they already have.

Common allergy symptoms include the following:

Runny Nose
Itchy Eyes
Mild Cough
Throat Irritation
Congestion
Difficulty Breathing

While seasonal allergies may not seem like a big deal to some, they can impact overall health and quality of life for others. Long-term allergies can stress out your immune system, leading to worsening symptoms over time. While your body tries to fight off the allergens, it can leave you vulnerable to viruses such as the common cold, the flu, or other more serious illnesses.

Allergies are more than just physical symptoms; they can impact your mental health. Allergy symptoms may keep you up at night, making sleeping more difficult. A lack of sleep leaves you tired and cranky during the day, and it can be frustrating to deal with all season long. Allergies affect both adults and kids, impacting their ability to learn in school.

Main Sources of Indoor Allergens

Common allergens in your home include the following:

Dust: Dust particles float around in your air and settle in a fine layer on every surface in your home. It contains a mix of various materials, such as pollen, dead skin cells, material fibers, particles from cleaning detergents, and even airborne mold spores.
Dust Mites: Dust mites are microscopic insect-like critters that live in dust particles. These little bugs love warm and humid environments such as couches, beds, curtains, rugs, and carpets. They are the most common cause of allergy symptoms and asthma. Around 4 out of every 5 homes have dust mites in at least one bedroom.
Pet Dander: Furry pets such as dogs and cats are lovely additions to a family, but they can also agitate allergy symptoms. Dander refers to the dead skin cells pets naturally shed over time. These particles can quickly spread around your home and cause itchy eyes and runny noses.
Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew can hide throughout your home in places you can’t easily see. Common places for mold and mildew to hide include bathrooms and showers. The high moisture levels are the perfect environment for mold to grow, and the spores agitate yearly allergy symptoms.
Bugs: No one wants creepy crawlies in their home, especially when they make you itchy and sniffling. Cockroaches are a common allergen culprit, and they sneak into your home through tiny gaps and cracks.

How to Reduce Indoor Allergens

Are we left defenseless against these allergy assailants? Absolutely not! You can reduce the amount of allergens in your home with simple cleaning habits every day.

Dust and Vacuum Regularly

Dust and allergens build up on shelves and in your carpet over time. Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting help control the dust and decrease your allergy symptoms. Try to clean up dust weekly to maintain a high air quality in your home.

Change Your Bedding

Wrestling the sheets and pillowcases off your bed can be a hassle, but allergens such as dander and dust mites collect there over time. Change your bedding every two weeks to reduce the number of allergens and keep your bed dust-mite-free.

Clean Your Heater

No one uses their heater during the summer when temperatures are in the triple digits. Your heater collects dust throughout the summer, and this dust can cause allergy symptoms. Clean your heater once a month to remove excess dust and other particles that build up over time.

Invest in an Air Purification System

If you have a high level of dust or other allergens in your home, invest in an air purification system. The REME HALO system catches airborne particles in the filters, improving your overall indoor air quality and reducing your seasonal allergies.

Bathe Your Pets Regularly

Bathing your dog on a consistent schedule reduces the amount of dander they produce. This in turn reduces your allergy symptoms over time. Try to give your dog a bath every 3 to 4 weeks to reduce dander without harming their skin.

Enjoy Cleaner Air with Semper FI’s REME HALO Air Purifier Installation

At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we understand that poor indoor air quality and seasonal allergies can leave you feeling unwell and helpless. That’s why we offer a wide range of IAQ services for homeowners in the Phoenix and Las Vegas areas. Our expert technicians specialize in HVAC services and REME HALO air purifier installations to create an allergy-free home.

Interested in a professional indoor air purification service? Book an Air Quality Inspection Today

6 Signs It’s Time to Replace or Repair Your Furnace

Written by Semper Fi on November 11, 2024. Posted in Furnaces. No Comments on 6 Signs It’s Time to Replace or Repair Your Furnace

With winter just around the corner, temperatures are beginning to drop all around Mesa. Daytime temperatures are finally cooling off into the 70s and 80s, but this also means temperatures at night are getting much cooler. Some nights see temperatures dropping into the 40s, which can make sleeping more frigid for Phoenix residents.

When the weather starts to cool off, it’s good to check in on your home furnace. No one turns on their furnace when the temperature outside is pushing 100 degrees, so it sits idle for a few months. Before you boot it back up, this is a good time to make sure everything is working as it should.

Checking your furnace ensures it’s ready for the winter and not at risk of breaking. No one wants a broken furnace when the temperature outside is nearly freezing, so be proactive and check it in advance. When inspecting your furnace, look out for these signs that may indicate you need to repair or replace your furnace before winter arrives.

1. More Expensive Energy Bills

It’s normal for your energy bills to fluctuate a bit each month. Depending on how much energy you use, some months may cost less than others. For many Mesa homeowners, their energy bill increases in the summer as they run their air conditioning units.

When the temperature rises into the triple digits, it’s difficult not to use your air conditioner consistently. Typically, you should be able to explain the bill changes with your energy use habits.

However, an energy bill that goes up with no noticeable cause is a red flag. If you have your thermostat set to the same temperature you always do but your bill keeps increasing, this could be a sign of something wrong with your furnace.

Your furnace’s efficiency may be declining, requiring it to run more frequently to maintain home temperatures. A furnace that is no longer energy efficient will put more strain on your heating system, ultimately causing higher utility bills.

2. An Aging Furnace

A well-maintained furnace lasts for many years in Mesa, Arizona. While the exact lifespan of a furnace depends on the style and brand, a furnace can last an average of 15 to 20 years.

However, the older the furnace, the more likely it is to break or lose efficiency. It’s recommended to start keeping an eye out for a replacement furnace once your current one is over 10 years old.

This doesn’t mean you have to replace your furnace as soon as it turns 10. Make note of how often it breaks and needs repairs, and see if it would be more cost-effective to replace it. If repairs are costing you more than the price of a new furnace, it may be time to look for a furnace replacement.

To get the most out of your furnace and ensure it lasts 15 to 20 years, it’s important to stay up-to-date with routine maintenance and repairs. Even if you don’t think you need a maintenance service, they’re critical in keeping your furnace healthy and running smoothly.

Furnace maintenance twice a year catches minor issues early on before they become more serious problems, saving you money in the long run.

3. Strange Noises

When your furnace is running, you shouldn’t be able to hear anything other than a soft hum and the rush of air throughout the ducts. There shouldn’t be any noises when the furnace starts up, runs, or shuts off. If you start hearing loud noises such as pops, bangs, or clunks, this is a serious cause for concern. Not only are these sounds loud and alarming, but they could be a sign of something seriously wrong with your furnace.

The problem can range from a loose bolt to an issue with the ignition process. Over time, bolts and other parts of your furnace can become loose and start to clank around in your unit. This sounds alarming, but it’s a pretty easy fix. A furnace technician can come and tighten the part, or you can do it yourself if you find the culprit bolt.

Loud and sudden noises could also be a sign of a delay in the ignition process. If you have a gas furnace, gas could build up in the furnace before the ignition is triggered, leading to a loud bang noise when the furnace starts up. While this sounds scary, it is not an immediate safety concern. It needs to be taken care of by a furnace technician, but you’re not in any immediate danger.

4. Poor Air Flow

Your furnace is supposed to heat your entire home to a consistent temperature you set on your thermostat. The entire home should feel like it is the same temperature. If you walk around your home and find areas that are warmer or colder than others, this is a problem. This could mean there is poor airflow in your furnace or your HVAC vents.

The ducts and vents in your HVAC system take the warm air your furnace creates and distribute it throughout the home. If there is a blockage or hole in these ducts, warm air could be leaking out and causing hot or cold spots in your home. A technician can come out and diagnose the exact cause of a temperature fluctuation in your home.

Signs of poor airflow are easy to look out for. Is your living room colder than your bedroom when the furnace turns on? Then something is wrong with your furnace or HVAC ducts.

There shouldn’t be any temperature gradients in your home—every room should feel the same. While there may be a slight difference between the temperature of your basement and your attic, there shouldn’t be a shocking difference between rooms in your home.

5. Unusual Smells

Whether you have a gas or electric furnace, there shouldn’t be any smells coming from your unit. If you smell something funky or concerning coming from your furnace or HVAC ducts, it’s best to seek professional help as soon as possible. Unusual smells may not call for emergency services, but they need to be taken seriously and addressed before the system gives out entirely.

The most common cause of a furnace smell is a buildup of dust on the coils. When the furnace turns on, this dust burns and causes an unpleasant smell. This is not something to worry about, as it’s completely harmless.

If you have a gas furnace, a funny smell could mean a gas leak. Natural gas does not have a smell of its own, so how do you know if you have a gas leak? Many gas manufacturers add harmless odorants to their gas to give it a distinct smell. This way, you know when there’s a leak and when to call a professional. For example, if you smell rotten eggs, it may be a gas leak.

6. Frequent Cycling

A furnace is designed to keep a consistent temperature in your home. It does this by cycling on and off. When the temperature of your home gets too cold, the thermostat will tell the furnace to turn on and run a quick cycle. The furnace will then turn off once your home is back to the set temperature.

This cycle repeats itself around every 10 minutes, giving your furnace time to rest between cycles. If it feels like your furnace is running constantly or turning on and off frequently, it may be time for a heater repair.

Repeated furnace cycling could mean your furnace is losing efficiency and needs to run more frequently to maintain temperatures. This extra stress on your furnace also causes more wear and tear and breakdowns, costing you more money in the long run.

Contact Semper Fi for Furnace Repair & Replacement Services

Your furnace is what keeps your home nice and toasty when the desert winter nights start to creep in. You deserve the peace of mind that your furnace is running smoothly and ready to work all winter long.

If you’re looking for a heater replacement or repair in the Mesa, Arizona area, look no further than Semper Fi Heating & Cooling. We are a veteran-owned and operated company ready to serve our local community.

Our team understands the importance of hard work and service, which is why we pride ourselves on offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our furnace services. Our technicians are fully licensed and insured to work with all styles of furnaces.

Debunking Common Furnace Myths: What You Need to Know

Written by Semper Fi on October 11, 2024. Posted in Blog, Furnaces. No Comments on Debunking Common Furnace Myths: What You Need to Know

Your furnace is what creates warm air to keep you and your family comfortable in your home even when temperatures outside begin to drop in the winter. Everyone wants their furnace to run as efficiently as possible while getting their money’s worth on every energy bill, and there are many tips and tricks posted online on what you can do to save money and keep your home warm.

However, with these tips and tricks comes a handful of myths that can potentially do more harm than good. Adequate research is important in making sure that you are taking proper care of your home’s furnace while also safely saving money each month.

What are some of these furnace myths out there that you need to avoid as a homeowner? In this discussion, we will go over 6 of the most common furnace myths, why they are not factually correct, and what you can do to remedy the situation if you have fallen victim to one of these myths.

1. Turning Up the Thermostat Will Heat Your Home Faster

We have all done this at one point or another, where we come home from a busy day and crank the thermostat higher to try and warm the home faster when it is chilly outside. However, heating your home does not work like that. How long it takes to increase the temperature in your home is not based on the thermostat setting, but rather it depends on the distribution of that heated air throughout your home.

The hot air created by your furnace travels through the ducts and vents throughout your home, and this distribution cannot be adjusted to go faster or slower. Turning up the temperature on your thermostat will not make the heating process quicker—it will only cause your furnace to run longer to reach the new temperature setting. This makes your furnace use a lot more energy and can actually increase the cost of your energy bill each month.

If you want your home to be nice and warm when you get home from work, a better alternative would be to invest in a smart thermostat that you can control remotely. This way, you can increase the thermostat an hour or so before you get home so your furnace has time to do its thing before you get home, and you get to come home to a warm and welcoming space.

2. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

At first glance, this seems like a great idea. If you are not using certain rooms in your home, why would you spend the money to heat them? The reality is your furnace and HVAC system don’t necessarily work like that.

The idea is that the ducts and vents in your HVAC system circulate the air throughout your home to create an even distribution of heat that maintains a consistent temperature. Closing a vent does not prevent the air from moving through the ducts and trying to get into that room, but it does create an uneven temperature throughout your home which can throw off your entire HVAC system.

Uneven heating throughout your home can throw off the thermostat reading, which in turn throws off your heating system. This could lead to your furnace running more than it needs to in order to get to the right temperature reading, which will actually cost you more money in your energy bills.

3. A Bigger Furnace is Better

Bigger is better, isn’t it? For your home furnace, this is not true. Your furnace needs to match the size and layout of your home as closely as possible in order to maximize efficiency and extend the lifespan of your furnace. Like Goldilocks, it needs to fit just right.

If you go for the largest furnace that you can find, it may heat your home too quickly. How is this a bad thing? Well, heating too quickly can cause your furnace to have to turn on and off rapidly without an adequate break in between. Known as short cycling, this puts excessive strain and wear on your furnace, which in turn makes your furnace more likely to break and shorten its overall lifespan. Your home will be warm, but at the cost of expensive furnace repairs and replacements over time.

On the other end of the spectrum, a furnace that is too small will struggle to efficiently heat the space and need to run continuously. This will also lead to a higher energy bill and excessive wear and tear on your furnace. Choose a furnace that is the right size for your home—at Semper Fi, we can help!

4. Restoring An Old Furnace Saves Money

When money gets tight, the natural response is to try and cut corners to save little bits of money here and there. While a cheaper furnace may save you money in the short run, it may become more expensive over time with repeated repairs. Restoring an old furnace also puts you at a greater risk of catastrophic breakdowns and repetitive repairs. Investing in a newer furnace is a bigger chunk of change up front, but its reliability and energy efficiency will save you more money in the long run.

5. Space Heaters Are More Effective

If you want to warm a specific spot in your home, many people opt for a portable space heater to keep warm without turning up the thermostat in your home. The idea is that doing this is not only more effective in heating the space, but it will also save you money on your energy bill since you are not running the furnace excessively.

Unfortunately, this is not necessarily the case. Portable space heaters still plug into the electricity in your home and use that to heat your space, so the energy-saving capabilities are not that substantial. Plus, these types of heaters can quickly become dangerous if left unattended.

In addition, a cold spot in your home could indicate a more serious issue. Your system reads the temperature throughout your home and adjusts how much the furnace is running to maintain the temperature you set the thermostat to. If there are cold spots in your home, it can be a sign that there is something wrong with your ductwork or home insulation.

6. Furnace Maintenance Is Optional

If there is nothing wrong with your furnace, why would you pay to have an HVAC company come to your home and take a look at it? Why fix something that isn’t broken, right? This line of thinking can quickly lead to critical problems with your furnace that will cost a pretty penny. Even when your furnace is running smoothly, a routine furnace tune-up is crucial in making sure it stays that way.

Think of these appointments like a check-up at the doctor. Even if you feel healthy, doing routine check-ups at the doctor can help catch potential hidden issues and warning signs of more serious problems later on if they are not addressed accordingly. It’s the same idea with your furnace. Routine maintenance can check for any minor issues and keep your system running safely and efficiently even in the middle of winter.

Trust Semper Fi Heating & Cooling For All Your HVAC Needs

With the internet at our fingertips, it can be tough at times to determine what is factual and what is a myth. While you do not have to become an HVAC aficionado overnight, knowing the basics of how your furnace works can keep your home toasty throughout the year and prevent serious furnace breaks or failures. Debunking these 6 furnace myths will keep your home safer and save you money in the long run.

Are you in need of an HVAC maintenance expert to help get your furnace in working order? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling is your team of certified HVAC professionals in the Metro Phoenix and Las Vegas areas. Whether you need a furnace repair or a furnace installation, no job is too big for our team. With over 1200 5-star reviews, working with Semper Fi Heating & Cooling will leave you with the peace of mind that we leave your furnace better than when we found it. Contact us today to get started!

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Should You Turn Off Your AC When On Vacation?

Written by Semper Fi on October 10, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning, Blog. No Comments on Should You Turn Off Your AC When On Vacation?

One of life’s biggest dilemmas: should you turn the AC off when going on vacation? If no one is going to be in the house, does it need to be cool? Whether it be a weekend trip to a bed and breakfast or a month-long family vacation, many homeowners grapple with the decision to either leave the air conditioning on while they are gone or turn it off to try and save energy.

Before making such a choice, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision. This article will go over points to consider when deciding whether to turn up the thermostat while you are away, as well as other things you can do to help lower your energy bill each month.

Is It Bad to Turn Off My AC While on Vacation?

While it may seem like a good idea at first, turning off your AC when you leave for vacation can cause more harm than good. Having no air circulation in your home for extended periods can cause humidity to build up in your home and cause problems throughout.

If it’s really hot where you live, like the Arizona desert, temperatures in the summer can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Letting the inside of your home reach those temperatures can begin to cause problems with your personal belongings and the structure of your home.

If you are going to be gone for a brief period of a couple of days, then it is best to leave your AC at the same temperature you normally leave it at. If you are going to be gone for longer than a few days, you can set your thermostat to around 85 degrees so it will still run and circulate air, just not as frequently.

The Cons of Turning Off Your AC Before Vacation

Increased Humidity in Your Home: Without air circulation in your home, humidity can start to build up and lead to potential problems. An increase in moisture can cause problems such as mold and mildew growth on your furniture, walls, and even your personal belongings.
Pest Infestations: A temporarily unoccupied and warm house is the perfect invitation for unwanted pests, rodents, and insects. Keeping your AC running at a slightly lower temperature can help deter unwanted guests from making themselves at home.
Potential Temperature Fluctuations: If you live in a hot climate, completely shutting off your AC leaves your home to the whims of the weather. Extreme heat in your home isn’t only uncomfortable to return to, but it can also pose health risks for pets and individuals with heat sensitivities.

Why You Should Leave Your AC On While On Vacation

As previously mentioned, turning your AC off while you are away risks causing costly damage to your home. Increased humidity can lead to mold growth, and sweltering temperatures can put stress on your appliances, such as your refrigerator and freezer. These appliances have to work harder to keep your food cold, which can increase your energy bill.

Electronics such as your television and video game systems are also at risk of getting damaged due to high temperatures. In extremely high temperatures, it can lead to cracked screens, damaged motors, and even melted circuits.

Special Cases

Weekend Trips

If you live in a moderate climate that doesn’t experience high humidity or temperatures, then you can turn off your air conditioning for short periods without risking damage to your home. Short weekend trips are not enough time to cause serious damage, so you can turn off your AC without having to worry.

However, if you live in the deep south or the desert where you experience high humidity levels and temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be in your best interest to leave the AC on to help protect the inside of your home and your belongings. Keep your local climate in mind when deciding what you want to do with your thermostat while you are away.

Extended Stays

If your vacation is going to last for longer than a few days, then you can set your thermostat to a higher temperature than normal. The recommended range is anywhere between your normal temperature setting and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows your AC to still circulate air and keep your home temperature-controlled without using as much energy. Your AC will run less set at 80 than it will at 72, so it will use less energy while still keeping your home and belongings safe from potential damage.

Other Ways to Save Energy While on Vacation

Although it’s not recommended to turn off your AC when you leave for vacation, we understand the reason behind homeowners doing so. You want to save money on your energy bill while you are away, and who doesn’t want to save a few bucks? However, there are other things you can do to help save energy while you are away that puts less stress on your home and comes with fewer risks.

Clean the Air Filters

One thing you can do to save money on your energy bills even when you are home is to clean out the air filters in your HVAC system. A dirty filter can decrease the efficiency of your air conditioning, causing it to have to work harder to circulate cool air throughout your home.

Changing the filters before you leave on your trip can make sure that your AC is running smoothly and efficiently while you are away.

Pull the Plug

Hold your horses, we don’t mean it like that! Think about how many things you have plugged in throughout your house. All of these electronics use energy even when they are not being actively used. Unplugging electronics such as televisions and light fixtures can decrease energy usage throughout your home while you are away and potentially save you money on your energy bill for the month.

Close the Blinds & Curtains

Not only will closed blinds improve privacy and prevent snoopy neighbors from looking in while you’re away, but they can also help regulate the temperature inside your home. During the summer, closing the blinds can block out the sun and help keep your home cooler, which in turn lessens the workload for your AC.

In the winter, closing the curtains can help insulate your windows and keep your home warmer, which means your heat will have to run less to maintain a comfortable temperature. No matter the time of year, this simple habit can save you money on your energy bill while you are enjoying a trip with your friends and family.

Lower the Temperature of Your Water Heater

A lot of water heaters have some sort of ‘vacation’ setting, which will lower the temperature that your water heater is maintaining. Your water heater will still run while you are away, but it will use less energy in the process. If you do this, be sure to turn this setting off when you get back and give your water heater time to heat back up to its regular temperature before you try using the hot water.

To Chill, or Not to Chill?

While it may seem like a good idea at first to turn off your AC before you leave for vacation, the potential savings on your energy bill are not worth the risk of serious damage to your home. A lack of air circulation and sweltering heat can lead to mold growth and damage to your electronics and other personal belongings. Safer ways to save energy include closing blinds and curtains as well as unplugging electronics before you leave for your family trip.

Need help with your home’s air conditioning system? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling is your team of HVAC experts located in the Metro Phoenix area. Your AC protects you from the desert sun, and we are here to make sure your system is working like a charm even when temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Contact us today to book an appointment or speak with one of our professional technicians.

Do Air Purifiers Really Work?

Written by Semper Fi on October 10, 2024. Posted in Blog. No Comments on Do Air Purifiers Really Work?

Are Air Purifiers Worth It?

You may hear a lot of people online and in commercials raving about their new air purifier and how much it helps keep their home clean, but do air purifiers really work? Do the potential benefits make the financial investment worth your time? It’s important to do your research beforehand to make sure an air purifier is the right fit for you and your needs and that you get the most bang for your buck.

Are you scrolling on your phone right now researching if an air purifier actually does anything and whether it’s worth the investment? You have come to the right place. This discussion will go over what an air purifier is, how it works, and the benefits of using one in your home.

What Is an Air Purifier?

The simple answer is that an air purifier purifies the air. Air purifiers are essentially filters that draw in air and collect unwanted particles, gases, chemicals, and even odors.

There are two main types of air purifiers: whole-home ones that connect to your home’s HVAC system, and portable purifiers that plug into an outlet and clean the air in one area of your home.

How Do Air Purifiers Work?

The basic function of an air purifier is pretty straightforward: a fan draws in air and passes it through a filter that traps unwanted particles and gas before pushing that clean air back into the room. While the specifics can vary depending on the manufacturer and purifier model you choose, the basic filtration concept follows throughout.

If you are looking for a more heavy-duty filtration system that will clean out more serious germs, then you can look for upgraded models that have add-ons such as germicidal UV. This adds an additional layer of cleanliness to your air and is great for people who may struggle with getting sick frequently or compromised immune systems.

Different models and features provide different levels of cleanliness and effectiveness for your air purifier. The effectiveness of your unit can also depend on factors such as the size of your purifier in comparison to the size of the room as well as the clean air delivery rate of your unit.

Routine maintenance on your air purifier can also impact its effectiveness in addition to the unit’s lifespan. Maintenance can include regular filter changes and general check-ups to make sure everything is in proper working order.

The Benefits of Using an Air Purifier

Reduces Allergens

Your home is meant to be your safe zone to relax and take a load off from the day. However, dust and other allergens in the air can make it more difficult for you to comfortably enjoy your space. Excessive exposure to these allergens can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and even a cough.

For people who suffer from allergies or medical conditions such as asthma, these particles can cause even more serious symptoms. Allergy sufferers are more sensitive to these particles, leading to an increase in symptoms such as congestion and itchy eyes. Respiratory symptoms can be more serious for asthma patients, and clean air can help prevent asthma attacks and keep you healthy longer.

An air purifier works to trap these allergens in the filters before they can float around in the air and cause symptoms. Some of the most common allergens found in many homes include dust, pollen, pet dander, and even mold spores. Catching these particles before they can come in contact with you and your family can greatly reduce symptoms and help make your space feel like home again.

Removes Airborne Diseases

Many viruses, such as the cold and flu, can travel through the air in your home and get you sick. If one person in your family brings home a virus, a single cough can allow that virus to spread through airborne particles and droplets. This is why when one person gets sick, it usually spreads to everyone else in the household.

A good-quality air purifier can catch these viruses and trap them in the filter before they spread throughout the household. Some can even catch both bacteria and virus particles, keeping you and your household healthy and happy no matter what germ the kids bring home from school that day.

However, it’s important to note that no air purifier can completely prevent the spread of a virus, and other health precautions should be taken to help prevent the spread as much as possible.

Reduces Harmful Particles in the Air

Viruses and bacteria aren’t the only particles in the air that can be potentially harmful. Fine particles and air pollution can sneak into your bloodstream through your lungs, leading to serious long-term health conditions and an increased risk of illness. Long-term exposure to airborne pollutants can lead to health conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.

Limiting your exposure to harmful particles in the air can help to protect your heart health in the long run and decrease your risk of developing serious health problems such as diabetes and negative cognitive effects.

Less Dust

Dust is inevitable wherever you live, and it can start to feel like a chore to have to constantly clean up dust that builds up on your shelves or ceiling fan. While dust looks like one uniform color to the naked eye, it is actually made up of a bunch of different particles and debris that can cause irritation and allergy symptoms. These particles can include dirt, mold spores, dead skin cells, hair fragments, bacteria, pet dander, dust mites, pollen, and even some heavy metals like lead.

Excessive dust can be a nuisance to clean up, and it can also irritate your nose and throat, leading to symptoms such as a cough or runny nose. An air purifier can help slow down the buildup of dust in your home and reduce the amount of time you have to spend with a duster in your hand.

Neutralizes Unpleasant Smells

Sometimes that bad smell in your home can be fixed by simply taking out the trash or cleaning out your dishwasher. However, others can be a little trickier than that. Stubborn odors in your home can be caused by volatile organic compounds that evaporate at room temperature into a gas that makes you wrinkle your nose.

An air purifier can help catch these compounds and eliminate those unwanted odors. Filters with activated carbon in them are great for catching and trapping those smelly gases, keeping your home smelling fresh and lovely. The carbon traps and breaks down those organic compounds that lead to foul odors, eliminating them from your home for good.

Provides Better Sleep

Nobody wants to go to sleep with itchy eyes and a smelly home. Poor air quality can lead to a bad night’s sleep, from sneezing to coughing in the middle of the night. Having an air purifier in your bedroom can improve the air quality in that space and lead to more restful sleep at night. Now you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start the day, rather than groggy and with a stuffy nose.

Install a Home Air Purifier in Phoenix, AZ

While a portable air purifier may not seem like that big of a deal, it can provide significant improvements to the air quality in your home. These things are small but mighty, and they work hard to reduce allergens and neutralize unpleasant smells in your home. If you are someone who struggles with allergies or a weakened immune system, an air purifier can help improve your overall symptoms and make your home more comfortable.

Thinking about investing in an air purifier for your home or office space? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling is your team of local HVAC professionals, and we are ready to help with all of your air purifying needs. We are trained and certified to work with the REME HALO® air purification system, and we are ready to install one in your home today.

Contact Semper Fi Heating & Cooling today to book an appointment or speak with one of our experts. We are ready to take on any job that comes our way. We are proud to serve our local community in the Metro Phoenix area.

Essential Fall HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Written by Semper Fi on September 23, 2024. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Essential Fall HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Everyone keeps going on about how important it is to do routine maintenance on your HVAC system, but what’s the big idea? When are you supposed to do it? While HVAC maintenance can be done a few times per year, it is recommended that you schedule one of these maintenance visits around the beginning of the fall season.

If you are still not sure, don’t worry! We’ll go over the importance of fall HVAC maintenance, some maintenance tasks you can do at home, maintenance tasks that an HVAC professional can do, and signs that your heating or cooling systems may need some professional maintenance.

Why Fall HVAC Maintenance is Crucial

While HVAC maintenance includes both your heating and cooling systems, fall maintenance focuses on preparing your home for the fall and winter seasons. As the temperatures get colder, it is important to make sure that your home’s furnace is in proper working order and ready to keep your home toasty.

Routine furnace maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, and it can extend the lifespan of your unit as a whole.

Preparing for Colder Weather

As previously mentioned, making sure your home’s furnace is in tip-top shape is an important fall chore that can help you prepare for the colder months to come. Since your furnace has not been used throughout the summer, it’s a good idea to get it checked to make sure everything is in working order. Fall HVAC maintenance can not only improve the efficiency of your home’s heater, but it can also reduce the risk of a serious furnace breakdown in the dead of winter.

Fall HVAC Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself

While an HVAC technician can do a more thorough maintenance service, there are a handful of fall HVAC maintenance tips that you can do at home to prepare your equipment for winter. These tasks can include replacing air filters, cleaning any debris from any outdoor units, cleaning vents and registers, and testing your thermostat.

Replace Air Filters

One of the first things you can do to get ready for the winter involves replacing the air filters in your HVAC system. These filters should be checked monthly and replaced once they start to get dirty, and the beginning of fall is a good time to check on them. Replacing your filters can improve the air quality in your home as well as your system’s energy efficiency.

Clear Debris from Outdoor Units

If you have an outdoor HVAC unit, you can take this time to clear off any debris you find on your unit such as leaves, dirt, and dust. This ensures proper airflow within the unit and can help to prevent overheating while maintaining your unit’s efficiency.

Clean Vents and Registers

While you have your broom and dustpan, you can also clean out the vents and registers throughout the inside of your home. Yes, this sounds like an awful lot of cleaning you have to do, but in the long run, it ensures proper airflow and prevents a buildup of dust in your unit that can affect your unit’s performance.

Test Your Thermostat

Lastly, you can check your thermostat in your home to make sure that it is working properly and reading the correct temperature. You can also start setting your home at an optimal temperature for the colder weather to maximize your energy savings.

Professional HVAC Maintenance Tasks

The previously mentioned chores can be done on your own time as you prepare for the winter. However, more thorough inspections and maintenance should be done by a professional HVAC technician in a scheduled fall maintenance check. These professional inspections can catch issues early and leave the more complex maintenance tasks to the experts.

Inspect and Clean the Furnace

One of the more crucial tasks a professional technician can do is a thorough inspection of your home’s HVAC system to make sure everything is in working order. This can include cleaning the burners, checking the heat exchanger, and making sure that everything is running efficiently and safely.

Check Electrical Connections

An HVAC technician can take a look at the electrical components of your HVAC system to prevent any malfunctions and make sure that your system is running safely with no potential issues.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Technicians are also equipped to work with the fine moving parts within your home’s system and lubricate any parts that may need it. This may seem like a basic task, but it can help your whole system work smoothly and prevent wear and tear by reducing friction.

Test the System’s Safety Features

Lastly, a professional technician can check the safety controls on your HVAC system to make sure they are working as they should in the event something happens. In addition, they can test the carbon monoxide detector to make sure it is reading correctly and keeping your family safe as it gets colder outside.

Signs Your HVAC System Needs Immediate Attention

While it is important to schedule your HVAC maintenance during the fall, issues may come up sooner and need immediate attention. Common signs that your HVAC system may need some professional attention include unusual noises, inconsistent temperatures, and higher energy bills.

Unusual Noises

Your heating and cooling system should be relatively quiet with a faint humming or whooshing of air. However, if you start to hear noises such as rattling, banging, or squealing, this could indicate a more serious issue with your system.

Inconsistent Temperatures

Your home should have a consistent temperature throughout, with each room feeling about the same. However, if you step into the living room and it suddenly feels like you are in a sauna, then your HVAC system could be struggling to maintain a consistent temperature. This could indicate a more serious problem and should be addressed immediately by an HVAC technician.

Higher Energy Bills

Your energy bills should fluctuate a bit month-to-month depending on the weather and what you set your thermostat to. However, if you notice an unexpected increase in your energy bill that seems to be out of nowhere, it could be that your system is working harder than it should be to maintain temperatures. The cause of this can vary, so it is important to get in touch with an HVAC technician and schedule a professional inspection.

FAQ’s for Fall HVAC Maintenance:

How Often Should I Schedule HVAC Maintenance?

While the exact number of maintenance appointments you should schedule varies depending on the state of your unit, the general rule of thumb is to schedule these visits twice a year. Typically they are done in the spring and the fall to keep your system in working order for both the summer and winter months.

Can I Perform Maintenance Myself?

There are a handful of maintenance tasks that you can do on your own, however, the big tasks such as safety inspections should be left to a professional technician.

What Are the Benefits of Professional HVAC Maintenance?

While HVAC maintenance may just seem like another chore to add to your growing list, hiring a professional allows you to get a thorough inspection of your unit to determine its current status. In addition, the professionals can make expert adjustments to your unit that can potentially save you money in the long run.

Schedule Your Fall HVAC Maintenance Today

When the leaves start falling, contact Semper Fi Heating & Cooling for all of your HVAC needs. Whether you need air conditioning maintenance or some work done on your furnace, our team of professionals is ready to serve our local community in the Metro Phoenix area. We offer you the peace of mind that your unit is in good hands and your home will be ready for whatever the winter has in store for you.

Easy Online Booking

Semper Fi Heating & Cooling strives to make the HVAC maintenance process as smooth as possible for our customers, which is why we offer easy online appointment booking options. You can also give us a call at (480) 608-9649.

Discover The Benefits of Replacing Your Old Mini Split System

Written by Semper Fi on June 15, 2024. Posted in HVAC, Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Discover The Benefits of Replacing Your Old Mini Split System

TL;DR: Upgrade your old mini split system for better energy efficiency, comfort, and reliability. Modern units save on energy costs, provide consistent temperatures, and improve air quality with advanced filtration. They are quieter, more durable, and require less maintenance. Eco-friendly refrigerants and energy-efficient designs reduce environmental impact. Contact Semper Fi Heating & Cooling to replace your mini split system and enjoy long-term savings and enhanced comfort.

During the last century, the temperatures in the United States have been 1.5°F warmer than in previous centuries, suggesting increasing warming in the global climate system.

A statistic like this is what makes year-round perfect home temperature invaluable. If nature is not going to provide it, you should find a way to make your home comfortable for yourself. Luckily, an easy way to do this is to upgrade your outdated mini split system.

Why upgrade? Older mini split systems might not offer the performance and comfort that newer models can provide.

Stay with us to discover how this simple change can transform your living space, improve your comfort, and provide many other benefits. Here’s why now is the perfect time to replace your old mini split system.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Modern mini split systems are designed with cutting-edge technology that minimizes energy consumption while delivering superior performance. Let’s see how new systems achieve such impressive energy efficiency:

Inverter Technology

Inverter technology allows the mini split system to adjust its power output dynamically, which makes it different from traditional systems. By modulating the compressor speed, the system can maintain a consistent temperature without the constant start-stop cycle, leading to smoother operation and significant energy savings.

Higher SEER Ratings

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures the efficiency of a cooling system over a typical cooling season. Modern mini split systems boast significantly higher SEER ratings compared to their older counterparts, often exceeding 20 SEER.

This indicates a higher level of energy efficiency, meaning the system uses less electricity to provide the same amount of cooling, translating to lower utility bills.

Enhanced Heat Pump Technology

Newer mini split systems often incorporate advanced heat pump technology, allowing them to be highly efficient in heating and cooling modes. These systems consume less energy by effectively transferring heat rather than generating it, particularly in moderate climates.

Improved Insulation and Sealing

Advanced mini split systems come with better insulation and sealing mechanisms that prevent energy loss. This ensures that the conditioned air stays within the designated area, reducing the need for the system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Features like insulated refrigerant lines and tight-sealing connectors play a crucial role in minimizing energy wastage.

Smart Thermostats and Controls

Modern mini split systems are compatible with smart thermostats and controls, allowing for more precise temperature management and scheduling. These smart features can learn your preferences and adjust settings automatically, optimizing energy usage even when you’re not home.

Improved Comfort and Air Quality

Replacing your old mini split system can significantly elevate your home’s comfort and air quality. Modern systems are engineered to provide consistent temperatures, improved air distribution, and advanced features that promote a healthier indoor environment.

Consistent Temperature Control

Advanced mini split systems are designed to maintain a more stable and consistent indoor temperature. By avoiding the frequent on-off cycling of older units, they prevent the uncomfortable temperature swings that can occur with less efficient systems.

Improved Air Filtration

Modern mini split systems come equipped with state-of-the-art air filtration technology. They can capture a wide range of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and even some bacteria and viruses.

Filters like high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) and activated carbon are generally used to ensure that indoor air is clean and free of harmful contaminants. This helps people with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Quiet Operation

Mini split systems operate by making minimal noise. Older systems can be noisy, causing disturbances in your daily life. New units are designed with noise reduction technologies, including quieter compressors and better insulation.

Increased Reliability and Lower Maintenance Costs

Upgrading your old mini split system to a modern model can significantly improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs. Newer systems are designed with durability and ease of maintenance, offering you peace of mind and long-term savings. Let’s explore how these improvements translate to better performance and lower costs:

Superior Durability

Modern mini split systems are more resilient to breakdowns. This reduces the need for frequent repair and extends their operational lifespan. It also means fewer disruptions and more consistent comfort in your home.

Advanced Components

Newer mini split systems incorporate advanced components that are less prone to failure. Innovations such as improved compressors, more reliable fans, and robust electronics contribute to the system’s overall durability and reliability.

Ease of Maintenance

New systems are designed with maintenance in mind, making routine tasks simpler and more efficient. Easy-access panels, washable filters, and modular components mean regular maintenance can be performed quickly and with minimal hassle. This saves you time and effort and lowers the cost of professional maintenance services.

Better Support and Service

Manufacturers of modern mini split systems often provide superior customer support and service options. Access to online resources, detailed user manuals, and responsive customer service teams make it easier to address any issues. This support ensures that you can maintain your system effectively and efficiently, further reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.

Environmental Benefits

Modern systems are designed with advanced technologies that reduce energy consumption and utilize environmentally friendly materials, helping to minimize your carbon footprint. Here’s a closer look at how replacing your old mini split system can positively impact the environment:

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Newer mini split systems use less electricity to achieve the same level of heating and cooling as older models. This reduction in energy use means that they produce lower greenhouse gas emissions, as power plants generate less electricity. This way, you help reduce the overall demand for fossil fuels, helping combat climate change.

Eco-Friendly Refrigerants

Modern mini split systems often use advanced refrigerants with a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to those used in older units. For example, many new systems use R-32 refrigerant, which has a much lower GWP than the older R-410A. These eco-friendly refrigerants are less harmful to the atmosphere, helping to reduce the impact of cooling systems on global warming and ozone depletion.

Energy Star Certification

Many of the latest mini split systems are Energy Star certified, indicating that they meet or exceed stringent energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Choosing an Energy Star certified system ensures that your mini split is designed to save energy and reduce emissions, further enhancing its environmental benefits.

Longer Lifespan and Recyclability

Modern mini split systems are built to last longer than older models, reducing the frequency with which units need to be replaced. Additionally, many components of modern systems are designed to be recyclable, further minimizing their environmental impact when they eventually reach the end of their useful life.

Wrapping Up: Replacing Your Old Mini Split System

The benefits of replacing your old mini split system make it a worthwhile investment for long-term savings and comfort.

If you are considering replacing your mini split system, Semper Fi Heating & Cooling specializes in delivering the highest-quality service and ensuring your home’s comfort and efficiency.

We are here to offer reliable and affordable HVAC and plumbing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to replace your mini split system and experience the service we are known for.

Step-by-Step Process of Professional Water Filtration Installation: From Novice to Expert

Written by Semper Fi on June 1, 2024. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Step-by-Step Process of Professional Water Filtration Installation: From Novice to Expert

TL;DR: This guide covers the importance of installing a water filtration system in your home, especially in places like Arizona where water hardness is a concern. With up to 45% of US tap water containing ‘forever chemicals’, having a filtration system is crucial. Key points include choosing the right installation spot, ensuring accessibility and space, preparing with the necessary tools, and following a step-by-step installation process. Post-installation, it’s vital to flush the system, check for leaks, and regularly replace filters. For professional installation, Semper Fi Heating & Cooling offers expert services in Arizona.

Turning on your kitchen tap and seeing pure, soft water flowing out can make you feel confident you’re safeguarding your family’s health. However, the latest tests suggest that at least 45% of US tap water contains ‘forever chemicals’.

Besides, in Arizona, water hardness levels can climb as high as 20 GPG, so naturally, you want to change this. A water filtration system comes up as an excellent solution. Still, expert guidance is vital as more households seek to enhance their water quality through reverse osmosis, water softening, and carbon filtering.

In this article, you’ll learn how to choose the perfect spot for your system and master installation techniques involving copper pipes and specialized plumbing tools.

Choosing the Right Spot for Your Water Filtration System

First, when preparing for the installation of the filtration system, you must decide where to place it. This will affect how well it works and how easy it is to maintain.

Accessibility Considerations

When selecting the ideal location for your water filtration system, ensuring easy access is crucial for ongoing maintenance and efficiency. Choose a spot where you can easily access the filter for maintenance and replacements.

Space Requirements

Available space is a significant factor in deciding where to install your water filtration system. Ensure there is enough room to accommodate the unit and any associated components, such as the mineral tank and pressure tank. It’s typically advisable to install the system in a utility room or basement, where there is sufficient space and easy access to water and electrical outlets.

Proximity to Main Water Shut-off Valve

Ideally, install your water filtration system in close proximity to the main shut-off valve. This location minimizes the need for extensive plumbing modifications and ensures that all water entering your home is processed through the filter. This valve is usually placed in the basement or a utility closet outside the house. If such a spot isn’t available, a vertical pipe section can be modified to create a suitable installation point.

Preparing for Installation

Proper preparation ensures a smooth installation. Let’s examine what you need to do.

Tools and Materials Needed

When installing the water filter, you must gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a table or stool to support the unit while attaching it to the wall, a tech gun for securing the unit with tek screws, and a drill for creating pilot holes.

Bolts, a level, and a plumber’s thread tape are essential for ensuring the unit is securely and properly installed. Additionally, steel nipples, a crescent tool for tightening, a pencil, measuring tape, a water filter housing tool, grease, and a hacksaw for cutting a 3/4-inch pipe are required. Having these tools at hand makes the installation process easier and quicker.

Shutting Off the Water Supply

The main water supply needs to be switched off. This can often be done by locating the main water shut-off valve near your water meter, which can be a ball valve or an angle stop valve.

Turn the valve handle or wheel to the right to stop until the water flow stops. If you’re working on a specific fixture, you might only need to shut off the water supply to that fixture using its own valve, which is located behind or beneath it and has a handle or knob.

Draining the System

After turning off the water supply, if your house has a drain valve just after the shut-off valve, connect a hose to it and drain the system into a sink, a bucket, or outside. Opening a fixture on the upper floor will help ensure all the water drains out. This step is key to avoiding water spillage when cutting into pipes during the installation process.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

It’s important to follow the steps of the process correctly. This ensures your water filtration system will not show signs of a problem as soon as you finish your work.

Removing a Section of Pipe

Use a pipe cutter to carefully cut out the marked section of pipe designated for your filtration system. Precise removal is crucial to ensure proper alignment of the new fittings. Place a bucket to protect from water spills.

Installing Tees and By-Pass Shut-Off Valve

After removing the necessary section of pipe, proceed to install copper tees on each side of the cut. These tees will serve as connection points for the by-pass shut-off valve, essential for maintenance and filter replacement without disrupting the water supply. The by-pass valve needs to be in the open position before you continue.

Adding Shut-Off Valves

For added convenience and safety, install shut-off valves on either side of the filtration system. This allows you to easily control water flow when servicing the system. Ensure these valves are accessible and properly aligned with the rest of the plumbing.

Soldering the Connections

Prepare the connections by cleaning and deburring the cut pipe ends. Apply flux to the inside of the fittings and the outside of the pipe before heating them with a propane torch. Once hot enough, apply lead-free solder to create a watertight seal. Remember to solder fittings before attaching them to the filter to avoid damaging internal components.

Attaching Grounding Jumper Cable

If your home uses metal water pipes as the electrical ground, it’s crucial to maintain this grounding path. After installing the water filter, attach grounding clamps to the metal pipe on either side of the filter. Secure a length of heavy-gauge copper wire between the clamps to maintain proper grounding of the electrical system.

Post-Installation Testing

Test your work to see if it was successful. If it doesn’t go well, you should be prepared to reevaluate your work.

Flushing the System

After successfully installing your water filtration system, the first step in ensuring its effectiveness is flushing the system. Run the system for a few minutes, then check the water quality to ensure it meets safety standards. This step is important for both whole-house systems and under-sink filters to guarantee the purity of your water.

Checking for Leaks

Once the system has been flushed, it’s important to check for any leaks in the plumbing connections. See if you can find signs of dripping and damage. Ensuring all connections are secure and leak-free is essential to maintain the integrity of your water filtration system and prevent potential water damage.

Replacing Filters

The filters within your water filtration system play a significant role in purifying your water and must be replaced periodically. How frequently you replace your filters depends on the type of system and the quality of the water being filtered. Regular filter replacement is vital to sustain the system’s efficiency and ensure the continued provision of clean, safe drinking water.

Professional Water Filtration Installation in Arizona

This article provides a guide to the step-by-step process of professional water filtration installation, ensuring clean and safe drinking water for your home. If you want things done right, however, call in the professionals.

At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we offer quality services in water filtration installation, HVAC systems, and plumbing solutions, providing the best assistance in the region. Don’t wait to improve your water quality—call us now to schedule your installation and experience the best in-home service solutions.