Is My Furnace Air Filter Supposed To Be Wet?

April 10, 2024

Have you ever checked your furnace air filter only to find it damp or wet? It can be puzzling and concerning at the same time. But fret not! We’re here to shed some light on this common issue and help you understand whether a wet furnace air filter is normal or not. Understanding Why Your Furnace Air Filter Gets Wet There are several reasons why your furnace air filter might be wet. One common culprit is condensation. When warm air from your furnace meets the cold surface of the air filter, condensation can form, especially in

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What Should I Look For In an HVAC Contractor?

March 7, 2024

In the realm of home comfort, finding the right HVAC contractor is crucial for ensuring your system’s optimal performance and longevity. With numerous options available, it’s essential to know what to look for when selecting a reliable partner for your HVAC needs. Here are key factors to consider: 1. Professional Certification and Licensing When entrusting your HVAC system to a contractor, always verify their professional certifications and licenses. Our team at Ideal HVAC Services takes pride in holding industry-standard certifications, showcasing our commitment to excellence and compliance with regulations. 2. Experience and Expertise Experience

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Why Does My Air Conditioning Unit Smell?

February 8, 2024

Have you ever walked into your home, only to be greeted by an unpleasant odor coming from your air conditioning unit? It’s not the most welcoming experience, that’s for sure. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in facing this issue. In fact, it’s a common concern that many homeowners encounter. Let’s delve into some of the reasons why your air conditioning unit might be emitting unpleasant odors and what you can do about it. 1. Mold and Mildew Build-Up One of the most common culprits behind foul-smelling air conditioning units is mold and mildew

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4 Reasons to Hire a Professional for Ductwork Installation

December 13, 2023

Ductwork installation may sound like something any handy person at home could do, but it’s one of those processes that’s best left to professionals. While it may seem straightforward, it requires specific knowledge and precise skillsets. Here’s why you should avoid attempting to install ductwork on your own. 1. Knowledge and Expertise Installing ductwork requires extensive knowledge of heating and cooling systems. Professionals undergo rigorous training to understand the complexities of airflow, balancing different zones, and making the system energy efficient. Without this expertise, you may end up with an improperly designed duct system that could

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Comparing the Costs of Heat Pumps and Electric Heat

September 20, 2023

As heat pumps continue gaining traction here in Warrenton, VA, plenty of homeowners are starting to wonder how they stack up against other types of heating systems. In particular, we here at Ideal HVAC Services field repeated questions about whether heat pumps are cheaper than electric heat. Here’s the answer. Upfront Costs When comparing heat pumps and electric heat, start by examining their initial costs. For this comparison, let’s consider an electric furnace and a heat pump. They share a similar footprint and utilize your home’s ductwork to distribute heat to the rooms requiring it.

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Can You Service Your Air Conditioner on Your Own?

June 6, 2023

Caring for the air conditioner in your Warrenton, Virginia, home is an ongoing and multi-pronged job. The good news is that you don’t have to handle it on your own. In fact, you shouldn’t. All air conditioners require annual maintenance from a licensed HVAC company. Read on to find out what you can and cannot do by yourself when it comes to AC service. Air Filter Changes and Condenser Clean-up To keep your AC running smoothly, you should change its air filter at least once every 30 to 90 days. HVAC air filters should be

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Will a Ductless Mini-Split Use a Lot of Electricity?

May 12, 2023

Many Warrenton, VA homeowners are curious about ductless mini-split HVAC systems. Although they’re not new, mini-splits have recently gained traction in the U.S. One of the most common concerns regards their energy needs. Here’s everything you need to know about the efficiency and energy use of ductless mini-split HVAC systems. The Energy Use of Ductless Mini-Splits HVAC systems are power-intensive appliances. Ductless mini-splits are no exception, but to understand their efficiency, you must compare them to alternative HVAC options. Ductwork can add up to a 30 percent efficiency penalty in a conventional HVAC system. Ductless mini-splits

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Factors Influencing the Cost of a New HVAC System

March 15, 2023

Cost is a common concern for homeowners looking to install a new HVAC system. While we can only quote a cost after a thorough assessment of the home, there are several factors that can influence the price of a new HVAC system. Size of Home Systems that are too small for the home won’t be able to heat or cool effectively, so it’s important to install the right-size system. The larger the home, the larger the HVAC system will need to be — and the more expensive it will be to purchase and install.

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3 Steps to Follow When Your AC Freezes

July 20, 2022

If you have a problem with your AC unit freezing up, it’s essential to take some time and do the required maintenance. Doing this should fix the problem without any further complications. 1. Turn Off the AC If your AC unit is freezing up, you first need to turn off the AC. Check the efficiency of the blower to see if it’s working. A damaged blower could be the reason your unit froze. If it’s damaged, it will need to be replaced by a technician. Leave the blower on to ensure sufficient circulation of air in

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The Expected Lifespan of Your Home’s HVAC System

June 7, 2022

HVAC units are known to last quite a while when maintained and serviced consistently. It is important to know exactly how long your investment will last you, especially if you live in a region where you depend on heating and cooling to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. How Long Does an HVAC System Last? The general lifespan of an HVAC system is 15 to 25 years. Today, these systems are designed to operate with great efficiency to maintain a comfortable atmosphere in a home. Of course, a lot of things factor into exactly

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